Burial or cremation? Factors associated with preferences among patients with cancer in Brazil: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: People living with life-limiting illnesses and their family caregivers consistently emphasize the importance of preparing for imminent death, with planned funerals being a common aspect of this preparation. Few studies have described the funeral rituals or post-mortem preferences of patients with cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the percentage of patients with cancer who wish to be cremated and to identify the factors associated with this preference. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted at Barretos Cancer Hospital. METHODS: A total of 220 patients with cancer completed a Sociodemographic and Clinical Questionnaire, the Duke University Religiosity Index, and burial or cremation preferences. Binary Logistic Regression was performed to identify independent variables associated with cremation. RESULTS: Of the 220 patients, 25.0% preferred cremation and 71.4% preferred burial. Talks about death with family or close friends in their daily life (odds ratio, OR = 2.89; P = 0.021), patients that answered "other" (unsure, tends not be true and not true) for religious beliefs are what really lie behind my whole approach to life (OR = 20.34; P = 0.005), and education 9 to 11 years (OR = 3.15; P = 0.019) or ≥ 12 years (OR = 3.18; P = 0.024) were associated with cremation preference. CONCLUSION: Most patients with Cancer in Brazil prefer burial after death. Discussions about death, religious beliefs and involvement, and educational level seem to influence the preference for cremation. A deeper understanding of ritual funeral preferences and their associated factors may guide policies, services, and health teams in promoting the quality of dying and death.

Translation, Validity and Internal Consistency of the Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire for Brazilian families of patients that died from cancer: a cross-sectional and methodological study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire (QoDD) may prove to be an important evaluation tool in the Brazilian context, and, therefore, can contribute to a more precise evaluation of the dying and death process, improving and guiding the end-of-life patient care. OBJECTIVE: To translate and cross-culturally adapt the QoDD into Brazilian Portuguese and measure its validity (convergent and known-groups) and internal consistency DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional, methodological study was conducted at the Hospital de Câncer de Barretos, Brazil METHODS: A total of 78 family caregivers participated in this study. Semantic, cultural, and conceptual equivalences were evaluated using the content validity index. The construct validity was assessed through convergent validation and known groups analysis [presence of family members at the place of death; feel at peace with dying; and place of death (hospital versus home; hospital versus Palliative Care)]. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha. RESULTS: The questionnaire was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and presented evidence of a clear understanding of its content. Cronbach's alpha values were ≥ 0.70, except for the domains of treatment preference (α = 0.686) and general concerns (α = 0.599). The convergent validity confirmed a part of the previously hypothesized correlations between the Palliative Care Outcome Scale-Brazil (POS-Br) total scores and the QoDD domain scores. The QoDD-Br domains could distinguish the patients who died in palliative care and general wards. CONCLUSION: The QoDD-Br is a culturally adapted valid instrument, and may be used to assess the quality of death of cancer patients.

Burial or cremation? Factors associated with preferences among patients with cancer in Brazil: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: People living with life-limiting illnesses and their family caregivers consistently emphasize the importance of preparing for imminent death, with planned funerals being a common aspect of this preparation. Few studies have described the funeral rituals or post-mortem preferences of patients with cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the percentage of patients with cancer who wish to be cremated and to identify the factors associated with this preference. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted at Barretos Cancer Hospital. METHODS: A total of 220 patients with cancer completed a Sociodemographic and Clinical Questionnaire, the Duke University Religiosity Index, and burial or cremation preferences. Binary Logistic Regression was performed to identify independent variables associated with cremation. RESULTS: Of the 220 patients, 25.0% preferred cremation and 71.4% preferred burial. Talks about death with family or close friends in their daily life (odds ratio, OR = 2.89; P = 0.021), patients that answered "other" (unsure, tends not be true and not true) for religious beliefs are what really lie behind my whole approach to life (OR = 20.34; P = 0.005), and education 9 to 11 years (OR = 3.15; P = 0.019) or ≥ 12 years (OR = 3.18; P = 0.024) were associated with cremation preference. CONCLUSION: Most patients with Cancer in Brazil prefer burial after death. Discussions about death, religious beliefs and involvement, and educational level seem to influence the preference for cremation. A deeper understanding of ritual funeral preferences and their associated factors may guide policies, services, and health teams in promoting the quality of dying and death.

Translation, Validity and Internal Consistency of the Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire for Brazilian families of patients that died from cancer: a cross-sectional and methodological study.

BACKGROUND: The Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire (QoDD) may prove to be an important evaluation tool in the Brazilian context, and, therefore, can contribute to a more precise evaluation of the dying and death process, improving and guiding the end-of-life patient care. OBJECTIVE: To translate and cross-culturally adapt the QoDD into Brazilian Portuguese and measure its validity (convergent and known-groups) and internal consistency. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional, methodological study was conducted at the Hospital de Câncer de Barretos, Brazil. METHODS: A total of 78 family caregivers participated in this study. Semantic, cultural, and conceptual equivalences were evaluated using the content validity index. The construct validity was assessed through convergent validation and known groups analysis [presence of family members at the place of death; feel at peace with dying; and place of death (hospital versus home; hospital versus Palliative Care)]. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha. RESULTS: The questionnaire was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and presented evidence of a clear understanding of its content. Cronbach's alpha values were ≥ 0.70, except for the domains of treatment preference (α = 0.686) and general concerns (α = 0.599). The convergent validity confirmed a part of the previously hypothesized correlations between the Palliative Care Outcome Scale-Brazil (POS-Br) total scores and the QoDD domain scores. The QoDD-Br domains could distinguish the patients who died in palliative care and general wards. CONCLUSION: The QoDD-Br is a culturally adapted valid instrument, and may be used to assess the quality of death of cancer patients.

Predictors of happiness and satisfaction with life in individuals from the Brazilian general population who use social networks: a cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to identify possible conditions associated with the perception of happiness and satisfaction with life in a sample of the Brazilian population who use social networks. This was a cross-sectional study with participants recruited online in five regions of Brazil via Facebook and WhatsApp. Data were collected from October 2015 to October 2016. The instruments used were the Pemberton Happiness Index, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and a questionnaire regarding sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and issues potentially associated with the feeling of happiness. In total, 2,151 participants were included. A total of five variables exerted the greatest influence on higher levels of happiness and satisfaction with life in the multiple linear regression model, in the multiple logistic regression analysis, and in the decision tree model. Being satisfied with financial circumstances, having a positive self-evaluation of health, having frequent family gatherings, engaging in physical activity ≥ 3 times a week, and having no previous psychological/psychiatric diagnosis are variables that "seem" to positively influence Brazilians' perception of happiness and satisfaction with life. We identified some predictors of happiness and satisfaction with life, which were mainly related to the social activities and personal satisfaction of the participating individuals. Encouraging people to seek strategies for increasing levels of happiness and life satisfaction based on modifiable variables, such as those found, can be helpful in this context.

New criteria for breast symmetry evaluation after breast conserving surgery for cancer.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate symmetry after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for cancer. METHODS: a prospective study of patients undergoing BCS. These patients were photographed using the same criteria of evaluation. The references points used were the nipple height difference (NH), the nipple-manubrium distances (NM), nipple-sternum distances (NS) and the angle between the intramammary fold and the nipple (nipple angle; NA). ImageJ software was used. Three breast symmetry models were evaluated: excellent/others (model 1), excellent-good/others (model 2) and others/poor (model 3). The ROC curve was used to select acceptable criteria for the evaluation of symmetry. Decision tree model analysis was performed. RESULTS: a total of 274 women were evaluated. The BCCT.core result was excellent in 5.8% (16), good in 24.1% (66), fair in 46.4% (127) and poor in 23.7% (65). The difference in NH was associated with good breast area (0.837-0.846); acceptable differences were below 3.1 cm, while unacceptable values were greater than 6.4 cm. Differences in the NM were associated with average breast area (0.709-0.789); a difference in value of less than 4.5 cm was acceptable, while values greater than 6.3 cm were unacceptable. In the decision tree combined model, a good-excellent outcome for patients with differential (d) dNH = 1 (0 to 5.30 cm) and dNM ≠ 3 (<6.28 cm); and for a poor/poor result, values dNM = 3 (> 6.35). CONCLUSIONS: the results presented here are simple tools that can assist the surgeon for breast symmetry evaluation.

New criteria for breast symmetry evaluation after breast conserving surgery for cancer / Novos critérios para avaliação da simetria da mama após cirurgia conservadora de câncer

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate symmetry after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for cancer. Methods: a prospective study of patients undergoing BCS. These patients were photographed using the same criteria of evaluation. The references points used were the nipple height difference (NH), the nipple-manubrium distances (NM), nipple-sternum distances (NS) and the angle between the intramammary fold and the nipple (nipple angle; NA). ImageJ software was used. Three breast symmetry models were evaluated: excellent/others (model 1), excellent-good/others (model 2) and others/poor (model 3). The ROC curve was used to select acceptable criteria for the evaluation of symmetry. Decision tree model analysis was performed. Results: a total of 274 women were evaluated. The BCCT.core result was excellent in 5.8% (16), good in 24.1% (66), fair in 46.4% (127) and poor in 23.7% (65). The difference in NH was associated with good breast area (0.837-0.846); acceptable differences were below 3.1 cm, while unacceptable values were greater than 6.4 cm. Differences in the NM were associated with average breast area (0.709-0.789); a difference in value of less than 4.5 cm was acceptable, while values greater than 6.3 cm were unacceptable. In the decision tree combined model, a good-excellent outcome for patients with differential (d) dNH = 1 (0 to 5.30 cm) and dNM ≠ 3 (<6.28 cm); and for a poor/poor result, values dNM = 3 (> 6.35). Conclusions: the results presented here are simple tools that can assist the surgeon for breast symmetry evaluation.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar simetria após a cirurgia conservadora da mama (CCM) para câncer. Métodos: estudo prospectivo de pacientes submetidos à CCM, as quais foram fotografadas segundo os mesmos critérios de avaliação. Os pontos de referência utilizados foram a diferença de altura do mamilo (AM), a distância mamilo-manúbrio (MM), a distância mamilo-esterno (ME) e o ângulo entre o sulco intramamário e o mamilo (ângulo mamilo; AnM). Foi usado o programa ImageJ. Avaliamos três modelos de simetria mamária: excelente/outros (modelo 1), excelente-bom/outros (modelo 2) e outros/ruim (modelo 3). Aplicamos a curva ROC para selecionar os critérios aceitáveis para a avaliação da simetria. Realizamos análise com o modelo de árvore de decisão. Resultados: foram avaliadas 274 mulheres. Os resultados do BCCT.core foram excelentes em 5,8% (16), bons em 24,1% (66), regulares em 46,4% (127) e ruins em 23,7% (65). A diferença de AM (dAM) foi associada a boa área mamária (0,837-0,846); diferenças aceitáveis foram inferiores a 3,1 cm, enquanto os valores inaceitáveis foram superiores a 6,4 cm. As diferenças MM (dMM) foram associadas à área regular das mamas (0,709-0,789); diferença de valor inferior a 4,5 cm foi aceitável, enquanto valores superiores a 6,3 cm foram inaceitáveis. O modelo combinado de árvore de decisão demonstrou resultado bom-excelente para pacientes com diferencial (d) dAM = 1 (0 a 5,30 cm) e dMM ≠ 3 (< 6,28 cm), e resultado ruim/ruim com dMM = 3 (> 6,35 cm). Conclusões: os resultados aqui apresentados são ferramentas simples que podem auxiliar o cirurgião na avaliação da simetria mamária.

Predictors of happiness and satisfaction with life in individuals from the Brazilian general population who use social networks: a cross-sectional study / Preditores de felicidade e satisfação com a vida em indivíduos da população geral brasileira que utilizam redes sociais: um estudo transversal / Predictores de felicidad y satisfacción con la vida en personas de la población brasileña general que usan redes sociales: un estudio transversal

Abstract: This study aimed to identify possible conditions associated with the perception of happiness and satisfaction with life in a sample of the Brazilian population who use social networks. This was a cross-sectional study with participants recruited online in five regions of Brazil via Facebook and WhatsApp. Data were collected from October 2015 to October 2016. The instruments used were the Pemberton Happiness Index, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and a questionnaire regarding sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and issues potentially associated with the feeling of happiness. In total, 2,151 participants were included. A total of five variables exerted the greatest influence on higher levels of happiness and satisfaction with life in the multiple linear regression model, in the multiple logistic regression analysis, and in the decision tree model. Being satisfied with financial circumstances, having a positive self-evaluation of health, having frequent family gatherings, engaging in physical activity ≥ 3 times a week, and having no previous psychological/psychiatric diagnosis are variables that "seem" to positively influence Brazilians' perception of happiness and satisfaction with life. We identified some predictors of happiness and satisfaction with life, which were mainly related to the social activities and personal satisfaction of the participating individuals. Encouraging people to seek strategies for increasing levels of happiness and life satisfaction based on modifiable variables, such as those found, can be helpful in this context.

Resumo: O estudo teve como objetivo identificar possíveis condições associadas com a percepção de felicidade e satisfação de vida em uma amostra de indivíduos da população geral brasileira que usam redes sociais. O estudo transversal recrutou participantes via redes sociais nas cinco macrorregiões brasileiras, através do Facebook e do WhatsApp. Os dados foram coletados entre outubro de 2015 e outubro de 2016. Os instrumentos utilizados foram o Índice de Felicidade de Pemberton, Escala de Satisfação com a Vida e um questionário sobre características sociodemográficas e clínicas e questões potencialmente associadas com a sensação de felicidade. Foram incluídos 2.151 participantes. Cinco variáveis tiveram maior influência sob níveis mais altos de felicidade e de satisfação com a vida, de acordo com o modelo de regressão linear múltipla, análise de regressão logística multivariada e modelo de árvore de decisão. A satisfação com as circunstâncias financeiras, a autoavaliação da saúde positiva, reuniões familiares frequentes, atividade física ≥ 3 vezes por semana e ausência de diagnóstico psicológico ou psiquiátrico prévio são variáveis que "parecem" influenciar positivamente a percepção de felicidade e satisfação com a vida entre os brasileiros. Foram identificados alguns preditores de felicidade e satisfação com a vida, relacionados principalmente a atividades sociais e à satisfação pessoal. Uma medida útil nesse contexto é incentivar as pessoas a buscarem estratégias para elevar os níveis de felicidade e de satisfação com a vida baseadas nas variáveis modificáveis identificadas no estudo.

Resumen: El objetivo fue identificar posibles condiciones asociadas con la percepción de felicidad y satisfacción con la vida, en una muestra de individuos de la población general brasileña que utilizó redes sociales. Se trata de un estudio transversal, con participantes reclutados en línea en cinco regiones de Brasil, a través del Facebook y del WhatsApp. Los datos fueron recogidos entre octubre 2015 y octubre 2016. Los instrumentos usados fueron: el Índice de Felicidad de Pemberton, la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida, y un cuestionario respecto a las características sociodemográficas y clínicas, así como asuntos potencialmente asociados con el sentimiento de felicidad. Se incluyeron a un total de 2.151 participantes. Cinco variables ejercieron la influencia más significativa en los mayores niveles de felicidad y satisfacción con la vida en el modelo de regresión múltiple, en los análisis de regresión logística múltiple y en el modelo de árbol de decisión. Estar satisfecho con las circunstancias financieras, tener una autoevaluación positiva de salud, reunirse frecuentemente con la familia, implicarse en actividades físicas ≥ 3 veces a la semana, y no contar diagnósticos previos psicológicos/psiquiátricos son variables que "parecen" influenciar positivamente la percepción de felicidad y satisfacción con la vida de los brasileños. Se identificaron algunos predictores de felicidad y satisfacción con la vida, lo que estaba principalmente relacionado con actividades sociales y satisfacción personal de los participantes brasileños. Fomentar que la gente busque estrategias para incrementar los niveles de felicidad y satisfacción con la vida, basados en variables modificables como las encontradas, puede ser útil en este contexto.

Analysis of the quality of life in patients submitted to oncological treatment of the head and neck / Análise da qualidade de vida em pacientes submetidos a tratamento oncológico de cabeça e pescoço

To evaluate the quality of life and the influence of sociodemographic and clinical variables in patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. Method: Quantitative, cross-sectional study. Two instruments were used: sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and the Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy Head Neck (FACT-HN). Results: 170 respondents, 60.6% male, 51.2% married, with laryngeal cancer being the most found (34.7%) of the total sample, 78.8% underwent surgical procedures. In FACT-HN, the variables that showed significance were: educational level, professional activity and salary income. Only in the subscale additional head and neck cancer specific concerns (HNSC) were significant: type of cancer, staging, chemotherapy and surgical treatment. Conclusions: The research contributes by showing that predictive factors of quality of life are also socioeconomic issues and not just clinical issues related to the therapeutic approach. Assistance planning is essential to provide support for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida e a influência de variáveis sociodemográficas e clínicas, nos pacientes submetidos ao tratamento de câncer de cabeça e de pescoço. Método: Estudo quantitativo, transversal. Foram utilizados dois instrumentos: questionário sociodemográfico e clínico e o instrumento Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy Head Neck (FACT-HN). Resultados: 170 entrevistados, 60,6% do sexo masculino, 51,2% casados, sendo o câncer de laringe o mais encontrado (34,7%) do total da amostra, 78,8% realizaram procedimento cirúrgico. No FACT-HN, as variáveis que apresentaram significância foram: nível educacional, atividade profissional e renda salarial. Apenas na subescala preocupações adicionais específicas do câncer de cabeça e pescoço (PACP) foram significativos: tipo de câncer, estadiamento, tratamento quimioterápico e cirúrgico. Conclusões: A pesquisa contribui ao evidenciar que fatores preditores de qualidade de vida são também questões socioeconômicas e não apenas questões clínicas relacionadas a abordagem terapêutica. O planejamento da assistência é fundamental para fornecer um suporte com vistas a reabilitação e reinserção na sociedade.

Giant cavernous haemangioma in cavernous sinus.

The aim of this article is show the neuroimaging, the pathological analysis and makes a brief review regarding to a giant cavernous haemangioma located in cavernous sinus in a 72 years old patient. A brief review was made in the literature searching for the key words "hemangioma" and "cavernous sinus" in the databases PubMed and Scielo for the last ten years. The images addressed were obtained by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in FLAIR, T1 and T1-weighted contrast-enhanced. The intracranial cavernous haemangiomas are rare conditions that comprise from 0,1 to 4% of intracranial vascular malformations. Diagnosis is made by MRI, when available SPECT (99mTc) is used to confirm and the treatment is done surgically with complement of radiotherapy and radiosurgery. The reported neuroimaging and pathological analysis show a giant cavernous hemangioma in cavernous sinus, a benign neoplasm involving the left internal carotid artery and maintaining contact with the contralateral internal carotid artery formed by abundant vascular structures, but without the presence of a muscular tunic.

Association between multiple symptoms and quality of life of paediatric patients with cancer in Brazil: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: To identify the association of multiple symptoms and clinical characteristics on quality of life (QoL) of paediatric patients with cancer. DESIGN: A descriptive, cross-sectional study. SETTING: South American Children's Hospital for Cancer Treatment (Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil). PARTICIPANTS: A total of 157 participants, 116 paediatric patients, diagnosed with cancer, undergoing chemotherapy treatment, between 7 and 18 years of age and 41 proxies for patients between 2 and 6 years of age. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES: The severity and prevalence ofsymptoms were identified through the use of a culturally adapted multi-symptomscreening tool, and the influence these symptoms, in association with clinicalcharacteristics, had on the QOL of Brazilian pediatric cancer patients wasassessed. RESULTS: Prevalent symptoms identified by all participants were 'feeling tired' (98, 62.4%), 'feeling more or less hungry (do not feel like eating) than you usually do' (96, 61.1%), 'changes in taste (flavour of the food)' (89, 56.7%), 'throwing up or feeling like you may throw up' (77, 49%) and 'changes in how your body (visually) or face looks' (72, 45.9%). The multivariate analysis for symptom severity as reported by proxies showed that surgery (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.98, p=0.047) and time of diagnosis (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.66, p=0.012) were associated with a decreased OR of high severity symptoms.An analysis of the clinical characteristics associated with Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) demonstrated no significant effect on QoL in any of the domains evaluated. The association between Symptom Screening in Pediatrics Tool and PedsQL in the self-report version demonstrated a significant negative influence of all symptoms on the QoL. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of symptoms experienced among pediatric patients during treatment was high and significantly influenced all aspects of quality of life,especially in the emotional domain.

Estudo comparativo entre as alterações hemodinâmicas observadas na cintilografia miocárdica com dipiridamol combinado ou não ao exercício de baixa carga / Comparative study between hemodynamic changes observed on myocardial dipyridamole scintigraphy combined or not with low-load exercise

INTRODUÇÃO: A cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica (CPM) com dipiridamol é uma alternativa para a investigação de isquemia em pacientes que não conseguem se exercitar. Porém, os pacientes (p) submetidos a esta modalidade de estresse estão mais propensos à ocorrência de hipotensão arterial e outros sintomas decorrentes do seu efeito vasodilatador. O estresse misto, combinando o exercício de baixa carga na esteira com o vasodilatador se mostra uma alternativa, podendo predispor à menor ocorrência de para efeitos. OBJETIVOS E MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo avaliou 44 p de um hospital terciário que realizaram CPM com sestamibi-Tc-99m sendo submetidos em momentos diferentes às duas modalidades de estresse (dipiridamol isolado e em combinação com exercício de baixa carga). Os objetivos foram: avaliar a diferença na ocorrência de hipotensão arterial entre as duas modalidades de estresse considerando como significativa uma queda maior que 50 mmHg da pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e/ou 20% da PAS basal e/ou valor absoluto da PAS ≤ 90 mmHg; avaliar a queda da PAS e a variação da frequência cárdica (FC) nas duas modalidades de estresse; verificar a interferência de variáveis clínicas na ocorrência de hipotensão arterial e variabilidade da FC < 20% durante o dipiridamol. A análise estatística foi realizada utilizando o teste de Mc Nemar para testar as proporções pareadas e o de Fisher para variáveis categóricas, considerando significativo se p <0,05. RESULTADOS: Observou-se queda significativa da PAS em 15,9% dos p submetidos ao dipiridamol e em 2,3% quando submetidos ao estresse misto, com tendência para a significância estatística (p=0,07). Se considerada qualquer queda da PAS notou-se significância estatística (p=0,043). Foi verificada maior variabilidade da FC no estresse misto com média de 73,1% (DP: 28,3%) em relação ao Dipiridamol, média de 29,1% (DP: 15,8%), p<0,001. Em relação àqueles com variabilidade da FC < 20% no dipiridamol, não se observou associação estatisticamente significativa com qualquer variável clínica de risco para doença arterial coronária (DAC). Não houve também associação estatística entre as variáveis de risco para DAC e a ocorrência de hipotensão arterial no dipiridamol. CONCLUSÃO: O estresse misto se mostrou uma alternativa viável uma vez que reduz a ocorrência de hipotensão arterial, apesar de não ter apresentado significância estatística para os critérios objetivos de queda da PA. A variabilidade da FC se mostrou maior no estresse misto não havendo associação significativa com as variáveis clínicas de risco para DAC. (AU)

The Impact of Radiodermatitis on Breast Cancer Patients' Quality of Life During Radiotherapy: A Prospective Cohort Study.

CONTEXT: In the oncology field, quality of life (QoL) is recognized as an essential component. However, few studies have evaluated radiotherapy (RT) and its adverse events, specifically radiodermatitis. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of radiodermatitis severity on QoL of women with breast cancer (BC) throughout RT. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted with 100 BC patients evaluated weekly during RT. The Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale were used. The generalized estimated equations were used to examine the association between the total score of QoL and their domains, time of RT, and the radiodermatitis score, controlled by confounding factors. Estimated marginal means and 95% CIs were compared pairwise by applying Sequential Sidak. RESULTS: The total QoL score and their domains (work/school, leisure, daily activities, symptoms, and feelings) were significantly associated with the evaluation times of RT (P < 0.001), the radiodermatitis score (P ≤ 0.002), and the interaction between timing (T) of treatment and radiodermatitis score (P < 0.001). When assessing post hoc, it was identified that the worst QoL scores were in the presence of Grade 3 (mean = 6.00) in T3 and Grade 4 (6.50; 7.00) in T5 and T6, respectively, and this difference was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: RT negatively influenced the QoL of women with BC, with the greatest impact resulting from severe radiodermatitis. Actions aimed at minimizing the impairment on QoL need to be adopted to make this exhausting process less traumatic and easier to complete.

Seven decades of studies with Asopinae predators in Brazil (1933●-○2014) / Sete décadas de estudos com asopinae predadores no Brasil (1933●-○2014)

Studies of Asopinae predators in Brazil were initiated in the 1930's, focusing on the use of these insects in biological control programs. However, the beginning of a period of major contributions to the knowledge on Asopinae predators started in the year 1986, with the release of the first research results, in the Proceedings of the X Brazilian Congress of Entomology in Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. In 1991 the first scientific paper was published on the predator Podisus connexivus Bergroth [= Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas)] (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), with study of the biological parameters of this predator for alternative feeding of the caterpillars Bombyx mori Linnaeus (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) and larvae Musca domestica (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Muscidae). The first master thesis studying Asopinae predators in Brazil was defended in 1990 at the Federal University of Lavras, which focused was on biology and predatory capacity of Podisus nigrolimbatus [= Brontocoris nigrolimbatus = Brontocoris tabidus] and Podisus connexivus [= Podisus nigrispinus] in the laboratory. Throughout all these years of research and investigations, advances with Asopinae predators occurred in several fields that resulted in a better understanding of these insects, making them an effective tool for controlling insect pests in the agriculture and forestry sectors.

Estudos dos predadores Asopinae no Brasil foram iniciados na década de 1930 focando o uso desses insetos em programas de controle biológico. Entretanto, o início de um período de grandes contribuições sobre o conhecimento de predadores Asopinae iniciou-se a partir do ano de 1986, com a divulgação do primeiro resultado de pesquisa, nos Anais do X Congresso Brasileiro de Entomologia em Maceió, Alagoas. Em 1991, foi publicado o primeiro artigo científico sobre o predador Podisus connexivus Bergroth, 1891 [= Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas, 1851)] (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), com o estudo dos parâmetros biológicos desse predador em alimentação alternada de lagartas de Bombyx mori Linnaeus, 1758 (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) e larvas de Musca domestica (Linnaeus, 1758) (Diptera: Muscidae). A primeira dissertação de mestrado com predadores Asopinae no Brasil, foi defendida em 1990, na Universidade Federal de Lavras, onde o foco foi a biologia e a capacidade predatória de Podisus nigrolimbatus [= Brontocoris nigrolimbatus = Brontocoris tabidus] e Podisus connexivus [= P. nigrispinus] em laboratório. Ao longo de todos esses anos de investigações, os avanços com predadores Asopinae ocorreram em vários ramos que resultaram em um melhor entendimento desses insetos, tornando-os uma eficiente ferramenta no controle de insetos pragas nos setores agrícola e florestal.

Culture of mouse peritoneal macrophages with mouse serum induces lipid bodies that associate with the parasitophorous vacuole and decrease their microbicidal capacity against Toxoplasma gondii.

Lipid bodies [lipid droplets (LBs)] are lipid-rich organelles involved in lipid metabolism, signalling and inflammation. Recent findings suggest a role for LBs in host response to infection; however, the potential functions of this organelle in Toxoplasma gondii infection and how it alters macrophage microbicidal capacity during infection are not well understood. Here, we investigated the role of host LBs in T. gondii infection in mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. Macrophages cultured with mouse serum (MS) had higher numbers of LBs than those cultured in foetal bovine serum and can function as a model to study the role of LBs during intracellular pathogen infection. LBs were found in association with the parasitophorous vacuole, suggesting that T. gondii may benefit from this lipid source. Moreover, increased numbers of macrophage LBs correlated with high prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production and decreased nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. Accordingly, LB-enriched macrophages cultured with MS were less efficient at controlling T. gondii growth. Treatment of macrophages cultured with MS with indomethacin, an inhibitor of PGE2 production, increased the microbicidal capacity against T. gondii. Collectively, these results suggest that culture with MS caused a decrease in microbicidal activity of macrophages against T. gondii by increasing PGE2 while lowering NO production.

Effect of Global Postural Reeducation on cardiovascular system of healthy subjects / Efeito da Reeducação Postural Global sobre o sistema cardiovascular de indivíduos saudáveis

Objective To evaluate the effect of Global Postural Reeducation (GPR) on cardiovascular system by heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). Materials and methods Seventeen healthy men (22.47 ± 3.02 years) were submitted to the postures frog on the floor, frog on the air, sitting, standing against the wall and inclined standing, two postures per session. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) and HR were recorded. The intervals between heartbeats were collected during the whole session (Polar S810i). The frequency domain was analyzed (Wavelet Transform), the low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) were obtained. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey (p < 0.05). Results Increased LF/HF ratio was observed in the frog on the floor (1 ± 0.1 vs. 2 ± 0.3 p < 0.05) and on the air postures (1 ± 0.1 vs. 2 ± 0.2 p < 0.01). There was an increase in SBP in the postures frog on the floor (123 ± 2 vs. 136 ± 4 p < 0.05), frog on the air (122 ± 2 vs. 133 ± 3 p < 0.05), standing against the wall (123 ± 2 vs. 136 ± 4 p < 0.05), inclined standing (124 ± 3 vs. 146 ± 5 p < 0.05). There was increase of DBP in the postures frog on the floor (69 ± 2 vs. 81 ± 2 p < 0.01), frog on the air (72 ± 2 vs. 83 ± 3 p < 0.05), sitting (85 ± 2 vs. 102 ± 3 p < 0.01). There was increase in HR in the postures frog on the air (67 ± 2 vs. 77 ± 3 p < 0.05) and inclined standing (88 ± 3.5 vs. 101 ± 3 p < 0.05). Conclusion The increase in LF/HF ratio and also the BP and HR indicates high sympathetic activity, possibly related to the work isometric developed during GPR method. [P] .

Objetivo Avaliar o efeito da Reeducação Postural Global (RPG) sobre o sistema cardiovascular por meio da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC), pressão arterial (PA) e frequência cardíaca (FC). Materiais e métodos Dezessete homens saudáveis (22,47± 3,02 anos) foram submetidos às posturas rã no chão, rã no ar, sentada, de pé contra a parede e de pé inclinada, sendo duas posturas por sessão. A pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica (PAS, PAD) e FC foram registradas. Os intervalos entre os batimentos cardíacos foram coletados durante toda a sessão (Polar S810i). O domínio da frequência foi analisado (transformada Wavelet), as bandas de baixa (LF) e a alta frequências (HF) foram obtidas. Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA e Tukey (p < 0,05). Resultados Houve aumento da relação LF/HF nas posturas rã no chão (1 ± 0,1 vs. 2 ± 0,3 p < 0,05); rã no ar (1 ± 0,1 vs. 2 ± 0,2 p < 0,01). Observou-se aumento da PAS nas posturas rã no chão (123 ± 2 vs. 136 ± 4 p < 0,05), rã no ar (122 ± 2 vs. 133 ± 3 p < 0,05), de pé na parede (123 ± 2 vs. 136 ± 4 p < 0,05), de pé inclinada (124 ± 3 vs. 146 ± 5 p < 0,05). Houve aumento da PAD nas posturas rã no chão (69 ± 2 vs. 81 ± 2 p < 0,01), rã no ar (72 ± 2 vs. 83 ± 3 p < 0,05), sentada (85 ± 2 vs. 102 ± 3 p < 0,01). Houve aumento da FC nas posturas rã no ar (67 ± 2 vs. 77 ± 3 p < 0,05) e de pé inclinada (88 ± 3,5 vs. 101 ± 3 p < 0,05). Conclusão O aumento da relação LF/HF e também da PA e da FC aponta para maior atividade simpática, possivelmente relacionada ao trabalho isométrico desenvolvido durante a realização ...

Culture of mouse peritoneal macrophages with mouse serum induces lipid bodies that associate with the parasitophorous vacuole and decrease their microbicidal capacity against Toxoplasma gondii

Lipid bodies [lipid droplets (LBs)] are lipid-rich organelles involved in lipid metabolism, signalling and inflammation. Recent findings suggest a role for LBs in host response to infection; however, the potential functions of this organelle in Toxoplasma gondii infection and how it alters macrophage microbicidal capacity during infection are not well understood. Here, we investigated the role of host LBs in T. gondii infection in mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. Macrophages cultured with mouse serum (MS) had higher numbers of LBs than those cultured in foetal bovine serum and can function as a model to study the role of LBs during intracellular pathogen infection. LBs were found in association with the parasitophorous vacuole, suggesting that T. gondii may benefit from this lipid source. Moreover, increased numbers of macrophage LBs correlated with high prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production and decreased nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. Accordingly, LB-enriched macrophages cultured with MS were less efficient at controlling T. gondii growth. Treatment of macrophages cultured with MS with indomethacin, an inhibitor of PGE2 production, increased the microbicidal capacity against T. gondii. Collectively, these results suggest that culture with MS caused a decrease in microbicidal activity of macrophages against T. gondii by increasing PGE2 while lowering NO production.

Efeito da terapia LED (λ = 945 ± 20 nm) de baixa intensidade sobre tecido epitelial de ratos diabéticos em processo de reparo / Low level LED therapy (λ = 945 ± 20 nm) effect on epithelial tissue of diabetic rats during repairing process

INTRODUÇÃO: O diabetes mellitus é uma condição sistêmica que pode causar retardo da resposta tecidual frente a uma lesão. Diversos estudos têm apontado o laser como importante ferramenta terapêutica para o auxílio do processo de reparo tecidual. Contudo, poucos estudos foram realizados com o emprego de LED (Light Emitting Diode). Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o efeito da terapia com LED (λ = 945 ± 20nm) de baixa intensidade sobre tecido epitelial de ratos diabéticos em processo de reparo. MÉTODOS: Para tal, foi realizada a indução de diabetes experimental em 20 ratos machos (Wistar), com administração de 40mg/kg, por via endovenosa, de mono-hidrato de aloxana diluído em solução tampão. Após 14 dias, os animais foram submetidos à incisão tecidual na região dorsal, seguida de sutura e divididos em grupo-controle (GI e GIII, 3 e 7 dias pós-lesão, respectivamente), e grupo-tratado com LED (GII e GIV, 3 e 7 dias pós-lesão, respectivamente). Os animais do grupo tratado (n = 10) foram irradiados de forma transcutânea, em duas sessões (30 minutos e 48 horas pós-lesão). RESULTADOS: O número de fibroblastos foi significativamente maior no GIV em relação ao GIII. CONCLUSÃO: Considerando o aumento do número de fibroblastos (análise quantitativa) e o adequado fechamento da lesão (análise qualitativa), pode-se concluir que houve um efeito positivo da terapia LED na região do infravermelho próximo sobre o processo de reparo, após 7 dias de lesão tecidual em animais diabéticos (GIV).

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus is a systemic condition that can cause delayed tissue response to injury. Several studies have demonstrated laser therapy as an important tool to aid the process of tissue repair. However, few studies have been conducted with the use of LED (Light Emitting Diode). OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the low intensity LED (λ = 945 ± 20 nm) therapy effect on epithelial tissue of diabetic rats in the healing process. METHODS: The induction of experimental diabetes was performed in 20 male rats (Wistar) with the intravenous administration of 40mg/kg of alloxan monohydrate diluted in buffer solution. After 14 days the animals underwent tissue incision in the dorsal region, followed by suture, and divided into control groups (GI and GIII, 3 and 7 days post-injury, respectively) and groups treated with LED (GII and GIV, 3 and 7 days post-injury, respectively). The treated groups (n = 10) were irradiated transcutaneously, in two sessions (30 minutes, 48 hours post-injury). RESULTS: The number of fibroblasts was significantly higher in GIV compared to GIII. CONCLUSION: Considering the increase of fibroblasts (quantitative analysis) and appropriate closing of the lesion (qualitative analysis), we conclude that LED therapy in the near infrared region causes a positive effect on healing process after 7 days in tissue injury in diabetic animals (GIV).