Desafios enfrentados por enfermeiros da classificação de risco em urgência e emergência / Challenges faced by risk classification nurses in urgency and emergency / Desafíos enfrentados por enfermeros clasificadores de riesgo en urgencia y emergencia

Objetivo: analisar os desafios enfrentados por enfermeiros da classificação de risco de um serviço de urgência e emergência. Método: pesquisa exploratória e descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa. A coleta de dados ocorreu em março de 2019, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e individuais com enfermeiros atuantes em Unidade de Pronto Atendimento do município de Caruaru, Pernambuco, Brasil. Para a análise, utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Resultados: foram geradas três categorias: assistência de enfermagem na classificação de risco; desafios do setor de classificação de risco; e desafios da ferramenta que define a classificação de risco. As participantes apontaram questões como falta de compreensão da população, protocolo defasado e discordância com outros membros da equipe como os principais desafios. Conclusão: verificou-se que a atuação da enfermagem na classificação de risco é um processo ainda complexo, que não depende estritamente de protocolos, mas de profissionais motivados, treinados continuamente e em sintonia.

Objective: to analyze the challenges faced by nurses in the risk classification of an urgency and emergency service. Method: exploratory and descriptive research, with a qualitative approach. Data collection took place in March 2019, through semi-structured and individual interviews with nurses working in an Emergency Care Unit in the city of Caruaru, Pernambuco, Brazil. For the analysis, Bardin's content analysis was used. Results: three categories were generated: nursing care in risk classification; challenges of the risk classification industry, and challenges of the tool that defines the risk classification. Participants pointed out issues such as lack of understanding of the population, outdated protocol and disagreement with other team members, as the main challenges. Conclusion: it was found that the role of nursing in risk classification is still a complex process, which does not strictly depend on protocols, but on motivated professionals, continuously trained and in tune.

Avaliação da qualidade de vida de idosos diabéticos durante a pandemia do novo coronavírus / Quality of life assessment of elderly diabetics during the new coronavirus pandemic / Evaluación de la calidad de vida de los ancianos diabéticos durante la nueva pandemia de coronavirus

Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida de idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 durante a Pandemia do novo coronavírus. Métodos: Estudo quantitativo, transversal e descritivo com 27 idosos diabéticos atendidos em um hospital universitário durante a Pandemia. Utilizou-se na coleta de dados três instrumentos: perfil sociodemográfico, condições clínicas sobre o novo coronavírus e Diabetes mellitus e Avaliação de Diabetes 39 (D-39) para avaliar a qualidade de vida. Para a análise dos dados foram utilizadas as estatísticas descritivas (frequência e percentual). Resultados: A maioria dos entrevistados são idosas com idade entre 60 a 64 anos, viúvos, baixa escolaridade, aposentados entre 1 a 10 anos de diagnóstico utilizando antiglicemiantes como forma de tratamento. Os idosos consideram sua qualidade de vida boa. Dentre àqueles que se contaminaram com o novo coronavírus foi evidenciado que não houve descontinuidade do tratamento para a Diabetes, entretanto, uma minoria relatou alguma sequela do novo coronavirus (febre, fraqueza muscular e apetite diminuído). A Sobrecarga funcional e o Funcionamento sexual foram as dimensões mais afetadas com todos os itens impactados negativamente. Conclusão: Os resultados apontam boa qualidade de vida dos idosos diabéticos apesar das dimensões Sobrecarga funcional e Funcionamento sexual afetadas negativamente sugerindo maior atenção dos profissionais de saúde. (AU)

Objective: To assess the quality of life of elderly people with type 2 diabetes mellitus during the new coronavirus pandemic. Methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive study with 27 elderly diabetics treated at a university hospital during the pandemic. Three instruments were used for data collection: sociodemographic profile, clinical conditions on new coronavirus and Diabetes mellitus and Diabetes Assessment 39 (D-39) to assess quality of life. For data analysis, descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) were used. Results: Most respondents are elderly aged between 60 and 64 years old, widowed, with low education, retired between 1 and 10 years of diagnosis and used antiglycemic agents as a form of treatment. Elderly people consider their quality of life to be good. Among those infected with the new coronavirus, it was shown that there was no discontinuation of treatment for Diabetes, however, a minority reported some sequelae of new coronavirus (fever, muscle weakness and decreased appetite). Functional overload and Sexual functioning were the most affected dimensions, with all items negatively impacted. Conclusion: The results indicate good quality of life for elderly diabetics despite the dimensions Functional overload and Sexual functioning negatively affected, suggesting greater attention from health professionals. (AU)

Objetivo: Evaluar la calidad de vida de los ancianos con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 durante la pandemia del nuevo coronavirus. Métodos: Estudio cuantitativo, transversal y descriptivo con 27 ancianos diabéticos atendidos en un hospital universitario durante la pandemia. Para la recolección de datos se utilizaron tres instrumentos: perfil sociodemográfico, condiciones clínicas sobre nuevo coronavirus y Diabetes mellitus y Diabetes Assessment 39 (D-39) para evaluar la calidad de vida. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó estadística descriptiva (frecuencia y porcentaje). Resultados: La mayoría de los encuestados son ancianos de entre 60 y 64 años, viudos, con baja escolaridad, jubilados entre 1 y 10 años del diagnóstico y que utilizan agentes antiglucémicos como forma de tratamiento. Las personas mayores consideran que su calidad de vida es buena. Entre los infectados con el nuevo coronavirus, se demostró que no se suspendió el tratamiento para la diabetes, sin embargo, una minoría informó algunas secuelas del nuevo coronavirus (fiebre, debilidad muscular y disminución del apetito). La sobrecarga funcional y el funcionamiento sexual fueron las dimensiones más afectadas, con todos los ítems afectados negativamente. Conclusión: Los resultados indican una buena calidad de vida de los ancianos diabéticos a pesar de las dimensiones Sobrecarga funcional y Funcionamiento sexual negativamente afectadas, lo que sugiere una mayor atención por parte de los profesionales de la salud. (AU)

Avaliação do medo e estresse pelo idoso na pandemia do novo coronavírus: um estudo transversal / Assessment of fear and stress by the elderly in the new coronavirus pandemic: a cross-sectional study / Evaluación del miedo y del estrés de las personas ancianas ante la nueva pandemia de coronavirus: un estudio transversal

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar os principais medos e o nível de estresse em relação à pandemia do Novo coronavírus em idosos. Método: estudo transversal, analítico e com base numa amostra não probabilista por conveniência composta de 25 idosos usuários de uma praça pública no município de Belém, Pará, Brasil, realizado de janeiro a junho de 2021. Aplicaram-se o questionário sociodemográfico, escala de medo do Novo coronavírus e escala de estresse percebido. Utilizou-se o teste paramétrico Teste t (p<0,05). Resultados: a média de idade foi de 67,6 anos predominando o sexo feminino (72%). Evidenciou-se que os idosos apresentaram nível de medo moderado (p<0,001) relacionado ao medo da COVID-19 (t=0,26). Prevaleceu o nível de estresse percebido moderado (p<0,001) relacionado à irritabilidade causada pela situação fora de controle (t=0,00). Conclusão: perceber o medo e estresse em idosos contribui para o desenvolvimento de ações pelos profissionais com vistas à promoção da saúde mental em tempos de pandemia.

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the main fears and level of stress regarding the New coronavirus pandemic in the aged. Method: cross-sectional, analytical study based on a non-probability sample by convenience composed of 25 elderly users of a public square in the municipality of Belém, Pará, Brazil, conducted from January to June 2021. The sociodemographic questionnaire, New coronavirus fear scale, and perceived stress scale were applied. The parametric t-test (p<0.05) was used. Results: the average age was 67.6 years, predominantly female (72%). It was evidenced that the elderly presented a moderate level of fear (p0.001) related to the fear of COVID-19 (t=0.26). Moderate level of perceived stress (p0.001) related to irritability caused by the out-of-control situation (t=0.00) prevailed. Conclusion: perceiving fear and stress in the elderly contributes to the development of actions by professionals to promote mental health in times of pandemic.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar los principales temores y el nivel de estrés respecto a la nueva pandemia de coronavirus en las personas ancianas. Métodos: estudio transversal, analítico, basado en una muestra no probabilística por conveniencia compuesta por 25 ancianos usuarios de una plaza pública en el municipio de Belém, Pará, Brasil, realizado de enero a junio de 2021. Se aplicó el cuestionario sociodemográfico, la escala de medida del nuevo coronavirus y la escala de estrés percibido. Se utilizó el test paramétrico Teste t (p<0,05). Resultados: la edad media era de 67,6 años, con predominio de mujeres (72%). Se evidenció que los ancianos presentaban un nivel moderado de miedo (p0,001) relacionado con el miedo al COVID-19 (t=0,26). Predominó un nivel moderado de estrés percibido (p0,001) relacionado con la irritabilidad causada por la situación fuera de control (t=0,00). Conclusión: percibir el miedo y el estrés en los ancianos contribuye al desarrollo de acciones por parte de los profesionales con vistas a promover la salud mental en tiempos de pandemia.

História de vida de egressas do sistema prisional / Life story of ex-prisoners / La historia de vida de los ex presos

Objetivo: Relatar o desenvolvimento do trabalho de campo com uso do método história de vida com mulheres egressas do sistema prisional do Distrito Federal e RIDE (Região Integrada de Desenvolvimento Econômico). Método: Trata-se de relato de experiência enfatizando os aspectos dessa vivência por meio de ferramentas originárias de estudos do método história de vida. Apresentam-se os caminhos adotados ao longo do desenvolvimento da coleta, registro e análise das informações, utilizando a observação participante e entrevista clínica. Seguiu-se o padrão cíclico do método proposto por Gaulejac, no qual os dados obtidos foram repetidamente aprofundados por outras observações e análises. Resultado: As técnicas utilizadas mostraramse valiosas para a revelação psicológica. Conclusão: As vivências na entrevista clínica foram momentos ricos em aprendizado e investigação, percebendo a amplitude da influência que as dimensões psicossociais têm no cotidiano e comportamentos humanos. O desenvolvimento da habilidade do olhar da psicologia social pode aperfeiçoar as práticas de saúde.

Objective: To report the development of fieldwork using the life history method with women from the prison system of the Federal District and RIDE (Integrated Region of Economic Development). Method: This is an experience report emphasizing the aspects of this experience through tools originating from studies of the life history method. The paths adopted throughout the development of information collection, recording and analysis are presented, using participant observation and clinical interview. The cyclic pattern of the method proposed by Gaulejac was followed, in which the obtained data were repeatedly deepened by other observations and analyses. Results: The techniques used proved to be valuable for psychological revelation. Conclusion: The experiences in the clinical interview were moments rich in learning and research, realizing the extent of the influence that psychosocial dimensions have on daily life and human behaviors. The development of the ability of the social psychology look can improve health practices.

Objetivo: Informar sobre el desarrollo del trabajo de campo utilizando el método de historia de vida con mujeres del sistema penitenciario del Distrito Federal y RIDE (Región Integrada de Desarrollo Económico). Método: Este es un informe de experiencia que enfatiza los aspectos de esta experiencia a través de herramientas que se originan en estudios del método de historia de vida. Se presentan los caminos adoptados a lo largo del desarrollo de la recolección, registro y análisis de la información, utilizando la observación participante y la entrevista clínica. Se siguió el patrón cíclico del método propuesto por Gaulejac, en el que los datos obtenidos fueron profundizados repetidamente por otras observaciones y análisis. Resultados: Las técnicas utilizadas demostraron ser valiosas para la revelación psicológica. Conclusión: Las experiencias en la entrevista clínica fueron momentos ricos en aprendizaje e investigación, dándose cuenta del alcance de la influencia que las dimensiones psicosociales tienen en la vida cotidiana y los comportamientos humanos. El desarrollo de la capacidad de la mirada de psicología social puede mejorar las prácticas de salud.

The efficacy of recombinant protein lbk39 for the diagnosis of leishmaniosis in dogs.

Visceral leishmaniosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases on the planet and dogs are the main reservoir of canine visceral leishmaniosis (CVL) in endemic areas. They play an important role in human infection because in dogs the disease appears long time after infection, and they can move uncontrollably, contributing to disperse the parasite. To take the decision to treat the animals or for euthanasia, in an elimination programme, in order to reduce the parasitic load, it is necessary to diagnose correctly, having more effective tools. Our group has developed a new recombinant antigen-based kinesin-related gene of Leishmania braziliensis (Lbk39), which shows 59% amino acid identity to the L. infantum homologue. The Lbk39 gene was synthesized, inserted into the pLEXSY-sat2 vector and transfected into L. tarentolae cells by electroporation. The recombinant protein was secreted in the culture with a C-terminal histidine marker, purified, generating a product at 337.68 µg mL-1. A total of 152 sera from dog's endemic and non-endemic areas were used, being 78 positives and 75 negatives. The antigen Lbk39 showed 100% sensitivity and 96.1% specificity. We compared this antigen with other antigens such as total extract of the parasite, TRDPP, and our data indicate that Lbk39 has potential application in the diagnosis of CVL through antibody detection.

Identification of genes from the general phenylpropanoid and monolignol-specific metabolism in two sugarcane lignin-contrasting genotypes.

The phenylpropanoid pathway is an important route of secondary metabolism involved in the synthesis of different phenolic compounds such as phenylpropenes, anthocyanins, stilbenoids, flavonoids, and monolignols. The flux toward monolignol biosynthesis through the phenylpropanoid pathway is controlled by specific genes from at least ten families. Lignin polymer is one of the major components of the plant cell wall and is mainly responsible for recalcitrance to saccharification in ethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass. Here, we identified and characterized sugarcane candidate genes from the general phenylpropanoid and monolignol-specific metabolism through a search of the sugarcane EST databases, phylogenetic analysis, a search for conserved amino acid residues important for enzymatic function, and analysis of expression patterns during culm development in two lignin-contrasting genotypes. Of these genes, 15 were cloned and, when available, their loci were identified using the recently released sugarcane genomes from Saccharum hybrid R570 and Saccharum spontaneum cultivars. Our analysis points out that ShPAL1, ShPAL2, ShC4H4, Sh4CL1, ShHCT1, ShC3H1, ShC3H2, ShCCoAOMT1, ShCOMT1, ShF5H1, ShCCR1, ShCAD2, and ShCAD7 are strong candidates to be bona fide lignin biosynthesis genes. Together, the results provide information about the candidate genes involved in monolignol biosynthesis in sugarcane and may provide useful information for further molecular genetic studies in sugarcane.

O toque dos sinos de São João Del-Rei: uma análise das manifestações culturais / The ringing of the bells of São João Del-Rei: an analysis of cultural manifestations

O presente estudo propôs investigar as manifestações culturais emergidas a partir do Toque dos Sinos da cidade de São João Del-Rei. Dessa forma, a pesquisa aqui compreendida objetivou entender como se dá o ofício de sineiro em relação às festividades, descrever o ofício de sineiro e compreender a dinâmica de experiências constituídas pelo toque cotidiano dos sinos são-joanenses. A metodologia fundamentou-se na abordagem qualitativa, na pesquisa bibliográfica e realização de entrevistas e pesquisa de campo. O roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado contou com a participação de 6 sineiros, sendo 5 tocadores de sino e 1 fundidor de sino. Os dados coletados foram analisados, apresentando como resultados que as manifestações culturais que emergem do toque dos sinos se desembocam em festiva religiosa, função comunicativa e o ofício do sineiro. A festiva religiosa é exemplificada por meio do combate dos sinos, por ser um momento festivo mais esperado pelos sineiros, no qual possibilita encontros, aprendizado, partilha e troca de experiências. Na função comunicativa os depoentes alegam que os sinos são um meio de transmissão na cidade, anunciando as horas, as festividades religiosas e notícias pertinentes para a comunidade além de convidar a população para as celebrações. No ofício de sineiro os entrevistados afirmam ser uma prática iniciada na infância e a aprendizagem se dá por meio da observação e exercício constante. É um ofício no qual o sineiro mantém uma relação de identidade, de afeto e devoção pelos sinos e os toques, além de estabelecer uma conexão lúdica e corporal com o objeto sino. O toque dos sinos traz sentido e significado para a vida dos sineiros, levando-os a um processo de ressignificação humana na própria história, cultura e na experiência vivida.

The present study proposes to investigate emerging cultural manifestations from the ringing of the bells in the city of São João Del-Rei. In this way, a research understood here aims to understand how the bell worker occurs in relation to activities, describe the meaning the bell worker and understand the skills of experiences constituted by the usual ringing of São João bells. The methodology was based on a qualitative approach, bibliographic research and interviews and field research. The semi-structured interview script included the participation of 6 bell players, 5 bell players and 1 bell founder. The collected data were analyzed, showing how the results of the cultural manifestations that emerge from the ringing of the bells are transmitted in the religious feast, in the communicative functions and in the bell worker. A religious festival is exemplified through the fight against bells, for a festive moment more expected by the bell players with the possibility of meetings, learning, sharing and exchange of experiences. In the function of communication, those who are a means of transmission in the city, announce as hours, as religious festivities and news relevant to a community in addition to inviting a population for celebrations. The interviewees claim to be a practice initiated in childhood and in learning occurs through constant observation and exercise. It is a craft in which the bell-keeper maintains a relationship of identity, affection and devotion for bells and ringtones, in addition to defining a playful and bodily connection with the bell object. The ringing of the bells brings meaning to the lives of the workers, leading them to a process of human resignification in their own history, culture and lived experience.

Dietary Vitamin D3 Deficiency Increases Resistance to Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis Infection in Mice.

The leishmaniases are a group of diseases caused by Leishmania parasites, which have different clinical manifestations. Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis is endemic in South America and causes cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), which can evolve into a diffuse form, characterized by an anergic immune response. Since the leishmaniases mainly affect poor populations, it is important to understand the involvement of immunonutrition, how the immune system is modulated by dietary nutrients and the effect this has on Leishmania infection. Vitamin D3 (VitD) is an immunonutrient obtained from diet or endogenously synthesized, which suppresses Th1 and Th17 responses by favoring T helper (Th) 2 and regulatory T cell (Treg) generation. Based on these findings, this study aims to evaluate dietary VitD influence on L. (L.) amazonensis experimental infection in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice. Thus, C57BL/6 and BALB/c VitD deficient (VDD) mice were generated through dietary VitD restriction 45 days prior to infection. Both strains of VDD mice showed a more controlled lesion development compared to mice on a regular diet (Ctrl). There were no differences in serum levels of anti-Leishmania IgG1 and IgG2a, but there was a decrease in IgE levels in BALB/c VDD mice. Although CD4+ T cell number was not changed, the CD4+ IFN-y+ T cell population was increased in both absolute number and percentage in C57BL/6 and BALB/c VDD mice compared to Ctrl mice. There was also no difference in IL-4 and IL-17 production, however, there was reduction of IL-10 production in VDD mice. Together, our data indicate that VitD contributes to murine cutaneous leishmaniasis susceptibility and that the Th1 cell population may be related to the resistance of VDD mice to L. (L.) amazonensis infection.

The role of TLR9 on Leishmania amazonensis infection and its influence on intranasal LaAg vaccine efficacy.

Leishmania (L.) amazonensis is one of the etiological agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Brazil. Currently, there is no vaccine approved for human use against leishmaniasis, although several vaccine preparations are in experimental stages. One of them is Leishvacin, or LaAg, a first-generation vaccine composed of total L. amazonensis antigens that has consistently shown an increase of mouse resistance against CL when administered intranasally (i.n.). Since Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) is highly expressed in the nasal mucosa and LaAg is composed of TLR9-binding DNA CpG motifs, in this study we proposed to investigate the role of TLR9 in both L. amazonensis infection and in LaAg vaccine efficacy in C57BL/6 (WT) mice and TLR9-/- mice. First, we evaluated, the infection of macrophages by L. amazonensis in vitro, showing no significant difference between macrophages from WT and TLR9-/- mice in terms of both infection percentage and total number of intracellular amastigotes, as well as NO production. In addition, neutrophils from WT and TLR9-/- mice had similar capacity to produce neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in response to L. amazonensis. L. amazonensis did not activate dendritic cells from WT and TLR9-/- mice, analysed by MHCII and CD86 expression. However, in vivo, TLR9-/- mice were slightly more susceptible to L. amazonensis infection than WT mice, presenting a larger lesion and an increased parasite load at the peak of infection and in the chronic phase. The increased TLR9-/- mice susceptibility was accompanied by an increased IgG and IgG1 production; a decrease of IFN-γ in infected tissue, but not IL-4 and IL-10; and a decreased number of IFN-γ producing CD8+ T cells, but not CD4+ T cells in the lesion-draining lymph nodes. Also, TLR9-/- mice could not control parasite growth following i.n. LaAg vaccination unlike the WT mice. This protection failure was associated with a reduction of the hypersensitivity response induced by immunization. The TLR9-/- vaccinated mice failed to respond to antigen stimulation and to produce IFN-γ by lymph node cells. Together, these results suggest that TLR9 contributes to C57BL/6 mouse resistance against L. amazonensis, and that the TLR9-binding LaAg comprising CpG motifs may be important for intranasal vaccine efficacy against CL.

Os efeitos de uma prova de corrida no estado de humor de praticantes amadores / How Running Races affect the mood of an Amateur Runner / Los efectos de una prueba de carrera callejera en el estado de humor de los practicantes aficionados

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar o estado de humor de praticantes amadores de corrida de rua nos períodos pré e pós-prova, a partir da Escala Brasileira de Humor (BRAMS). Participaram da pesquisa 37 praticantes filiados a grupos de corrida de rua. Auferiu-se, em relação aos estados de humor dos participantes, que a tensão, o vigor e a confusão apresentaram valores inferiores após a prova. A fadiga foi a única dimensão com aumento no período pós-prova. Em relação à qualidade do sono, pôde-se observar que os indivíduos que tiveram um sono satisfatório na noite anterior estavam mais bem preparados para a prova. Realizou-se, ainda, uma análise de acordo com o nível de experiência, na qual se verificou que os praticantes menos experientes sofreram mais os efeitos da competição, o que afetou significativamente os escores de tensão, vigor, fadiga e confusão.

The aim of this study was to verify the state of mind of amateur runners during both, pre- and post-competition periods, according to the Brazilian Mood Scale (BRAMS). The sample was comprised of 37 amateur runners affiliated with racing groups. It was observed that tension, vigor and confusion levels decrease after the competition. Fatigue was the only aspect that effectively increased in the post-competitive period. Regarding the quality of sleep, it was noted that individuals who had satisfactory sleep quality during the previous night were better prepared for the race. An analysis was performed according to the level of experience and showed that less experienced runners suffer more from the effects of competition, significantly affecting mood states (tension, vigor, fatigue and confusion).

El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar el estado de humor de practicantes aficionados de carreras de calle durante los periodos pre y post-prueba, a partir de la Escala Brasileña de Humor (BRAMS). Participaron en la investigación 37 practicantes de corridas afiliados a grupos de carreras callejeras. Se confiere en relación a los estados de humor de los participantes que la tensión, el vigor y la confusión presentaron valores inferiores después de la prueba. La fatiga fue la única dimensión con aumento en el período post-prueba. En cuanto a la calidad del sueño, se puede observar que los individuos que tuvieron un sueño satisfactorio la noche anterior estaban mejor preparados para la prueba. Se realizó un análisis de acuerdo con el nivel de experiencia, donde se verificó que los practicantes menos experimentados sufren más los efectos de la competición, afectando significativamente los escores de tensión, vigor, fatiga y confusión.

Effects of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy in Experimental Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in BALB/c Mice Induced by Leishmania amazonensis.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis remains both a public health and a therapeutic challenge. To date, no ideal therapy for cutaneous leishmaniasis has been identified, and no universally accepted therapeutic regimen and approved vaccines are available. Due to the mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) immunomodulatory capacity, they have been applied in a wide variety of disorders, including infectious, inflammatory, and allergic diseases. We evaluated the potential effects of bone marrow MSC therapy in a murine model of cutaneous leishmaniasis. In vitro, coculture of infected macrophages with MSC increased parasite load on macrophages in comparison with controls (macrophages without MSCs). In vivo, BALB/c mice were infected with 2 × 106Leishmania amazonensis (Josefa strain) promastigotes in the footpad. 7 and 37 days after infection, animals were treated with 1 × 105 MSCs, either intralesional (i.l.), i.e., in the same site of infection, or intravenously (i.v.), through the external jugular vein. Control animals received the same volume (50 µL) of phosphate-buffered saline by i.l. or i.v. routes. The lesion progression was assessed by its thickness measured by pachymetry. Forty-two days after infection, animals were euthanized and parasite burden in the footpad and in the draining lymph nodes was quantified by the limiting dilution assay (LDA), and spleen cells were phenotyped by flow cytometry. No significant difference was observed in lesion progression, regardless of the MSC route of administration. However, animals treated with i.v. MSCs presented a significant increase in parasite load in comparison with controls. On the other hand, no harmful effect due to MSCs i.l. administered was observed. The spleen cellular profile analysis showed an increase of IL-10 producing T CD4+ and TCD8+ cells in the spleen only in mice treated with i.v. MSC. The excessive production of IL-10 could be associated with the disease-aggravating effects of MSC therapy when intravenously administered. As a conclusion, in the current murine model of L. amazonensis-induced cutaneous disease, MSCs did not control the damage of cutaneous disease and, depending on the administration route, it could result in deleterious effects.

Efficacy of intranasal LaAg vaccine against Leishmania amazonensis infection in partially resistant C57Bl/6 mice.

BACKGROUND: We have previously demonstrated that intranasal vaccination of highly susceptible BALB/c mice with whole Leishmania amazonensis antigens (LaAg) leads to protection against murine cutaneous leishmaniasis. Here, we evaluate the response of partially resistant C57BL/6 mice to vaccination as a more representative experimental model of human cutaneous leishmaniasis. METHODS: C57BL/6 mice from different animal facilities were infected with L. amazonensis (Josefa strain) to establish the profile of infection. Intranasal vaccination was performed before the infection challenge with two doses of 10 µg of LaAg alone or associated with the adjuvant ADDAVAX® by instillation in the nostrils. The lesion progression was measured with a dial caliper and the parasite load by limited dilution assay in the acute and chronic phases of infection. Cytokines were quantified by ELISA in the homogenates of infected footpads. RESULTS: C57BL/6 mice from different animal facilities presented the same L. amazonensis infection profile, displaying a progressive acute phase followed by a controlled chronic phase. Parasites cultured in M199 and Schneider's media were equally infective. Intranasal vaccination with LaAg led to milder acute and chronic phases of the disease. The mechanism of protection was associated with increased production of IFN-gamma in the infected tissue as measured in the acute phase. Association with the ADDAVAX® adjuvant did not improve the efficacy of intranasal LaAg vaccination. Rather, ADDAVAX® reduced vaccination efficacy. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that the efficacy of adjuvant-free intranasal vaccination with LaAg is extendable to the more resistant C57Bl/6 mouse model of infection with L. amazonensis, and is thus not exclusive to the susceptible BALB/c model. These results imply that mucosal immunomodulation by LaAg leads to peripheral protection irrespective of the genetic background of the host.

Climatic factors influencing triatomine occurrence in Central-West Brazil.

We estimated the geographic distributions of triatomine species in Central-West Region of Brazil (CW) and analysed the climatic factors influencing their occurrence. A total of 3,396 records of 27 triatomine species were analysed. Using the maximum entropy method, ecological niche models were produced for eight species occurring in at least 20 municipalities based on 13 climatic variables and elevation. Triatoma sordida and Rhodnius neglectus were the species with the broadest geographic distributions in CW Brazil. The Cerrado areas in the state of Goiás were found to be more suitable for the occurrence of synanthropic triatomines than the Amazon forest areas in the northern part of the state of Mato Grosso. The variable that best explains the evaluated models is temperature seasonality. The results indicate that almost the entire region presents climatic conditions that are appropriate for at least one triatomine species. Therefore, it is recommended that entomological surveillance be reinforced in CW Brazil.

Climatic factors influencing triatomine occurrence in Central-West Brazil

We estimated the geographic distributions of triatomine species in Central-West Region of Brazil (CW) and analysed the climatic factors influencing their occurrence. A total of 3,396 records of 27 triatomine species were analysed. Using the maximum entropy method, ecological niche models were produced for eight species occurring in at least 20 municipalities based on 13 climatic variables and elevation. Triatoma sordida and Rhodnius neglectus were the species with the broadest geographic distributions in CW Brazil. The Cerrado areas in the state of Goiás were found to be more suitable for the occurrence of synanthropic triatomines than the Amazon forest areas in the northern part of the state of Mato Grosso. The variable that best explains the evaluated models is temperature seasonality. The results indicate that almost the entire region presents climatic conditions that are appropriate for at least one triatomine species. Therefore, it is recommended that entomological surveillance be reinforced in CW Brazil.

Depoimento de crianças: um divisor de águas nos processos judiciais? / Children's testimonial: a watershed in judicial proceedings? / Testimonio de niños: una inflexión en los procesos judiciales?

No artigo busca-se apresentar como os depoimentos de crianças vêm sendo considerados na jurisprudência referente a processos que envolvem denúncias de abuso sexual infantil. Para tanto, se analisou jurisprudência emitida por três tribunais brasileiros no período de agosto de 2009 a março de 2010. Empregando-se a análise de conteúdo para avaliar o material reunido, observou-se nos julgados ampla solicitação e valoração do depoimento de crianças, justificado pelo fato de as ocorrências de abuso sexual se darem sem outras testemunhas ou provas, além da necessidade de combater a impunidade em crimes dessa natureza. Outras alegações utilizadas foram: a presunção de veracidade atribuída à palavra da criança, a solidez e a coerência dos relatos e a inexistência de motivos para a criança acusar falsamente o réu. Conclui-se pela indicação de estudos interdisciplinares para se avaliarem possíveis consequências de se eleger a palavra da criança como a principal prova acusatória.

This paper seeks to present the testimonies of children and how have being considered in court decisions related to cases involving allegations of sexual abuse against children. To this end, we analyzed court decisions of three Brazilian courts issued in the period between August 2009 and March of 2010. By employing content analysis to evaluate the material obtained, it was observed a wide application and evaluation of the testimony of children, justified by the fact that such occurrences have no other witnesses, nor would give evidences, and the need to combat impunity in those crimes. Other allegations were used: the presumption of correctness given to the child's word, the strength and consistency of reports and the lack of reasons for the child falsely accusing the defendant. We conclude by indicating interdisciplinary studies to assess possible consequences of electing the child's word as a main legal proof.

En el artículo se busca presentar como los testimonios de niños están siendo considerados en la jurisprudencia referente a procesos que envuelven denuncias de abuso sexual infantil. Para ello, se analizó jurisprudencia emitida por tres tribunales brasileños en el período de agosto de 2009 a marzo de 2010. Empegándose el análisis de contenido para evaluar el material reunido, se observó en los juzgados amplia solicitación y valoración del testimonio de niños, justificado por el hecho de que las ocurrencias de abuso sexual se dan sin otros testigos o pruebas, además de la necesidad de combatir la impunidad en crímenes de esa naturaleza. Otras alegaciones utilizadas fueron: la presunción de veracidad atribuida a la palabra del niño, la solidez y la coherencia de los relatos y la inexistencia de motivos para el niño acusar falsamente el reo. Se concluye por la indicación de estudios interdisciplinares para evaluar posibles consecuencias de elegirse la palabra del niño como la principal prueba acusatoria.

Depoimento de crianças: um divisor de águas nos processos judiciais? / Children's testimonial: a watershed in judicial proceedings? / Testimonio de niños: una inflexión en los procesos judiciales?

No artigo busca-se apresentar como os depoimentos de crianças vêm sendo considerados na jurisprudência referente a processos que envolvem denúncias de abuso sexual infantil. Para tanto, se analisou jurisprudência emitida por três tribunais brasileiros no período de agosto de 2009 a março de 2010. Empregando-se a análise de conteúdo para avaliar o material reunido, observou-se nos julgados ampla solicitação e valoração do depoimento de crianças, justificado pelo fato de as ocorrências de abuso sexual se darem sem outras testemunhas ou provas, além da necessidade de combater a impunidade em crimes dessa natureza. Outras alegações utilizadas foram: a presunção de veracidade atribuída à palavra da criança, a solidez e a coerência dos relatos e a inexistência de motivos para a criança acusar falsamente o réu. Conclui-se pela indicação de estudos interdisciplinares para se avaliarem possíveis consequências de se eleger a palavra da criança como a principal prova acusatória.(AU)

This paper seeks to present the testimonies of children and how have being considered in court decisions related to cases involving allegations of sexual abuse against children. To this end, we analyzed court decisions of three Brazilian courts issued in the period between August 2009 and March of 2010. By employing content analysis to evaluate the material obtained, it was observed a wide application and evaluation of the testimony of children, justified by the fact that such occurrences have no other witnesses, nor would give evidences, and the need to combat impunity in those crimes. Other allegations were used: the presumption of correctness given to the child's word, the strength and consistency of reports and the lack of reasons for the child falsely accusing the defendant. We conclude by indicating interdisciplinary studies to assess possible consequences of electing the child's word as a main legal proof.(AU)

En el artículo se busca presentar como los testimonios de niños están siendo considerados en la jurisprudencia referente a procesos que envuelven denuncias de abuso sexual infantil. Para ello, se analizó jurisprudencia emitida por tres tribunales brasileños en el período de agosto de 2009 a marzo de 2010. Empegándose el análisis de contenido para evaluar el material reunido, se observó en los juzgados amplia solicitación y valoración del testimonio de niños, justificado por el hecho de que las ocurrencias de abuso sexual se dan sin otros testigos o pruebas, además de la necesidad de combatir la impunidad en crímenes de esa naturaleza. Otras alegaciones utilizadas fueron: la presunción de veracidad atribuida a la palabra del niño, la solidez y la coherencia de los relatos y la inexistencia de motivos para el niño acusar falsamente el reo. Se concluye por la indicación de estudios interdisciplinares para evaluar posibles consecuencias de elegirse la palabra del niño como la principal prueba acusatoria.(AU)

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in swine matrices in Nova Mutum and Diamantino, Mato Grosso, Brazil.

This report aimed to assess the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in 708 swine matrices in Nova Mutum and Diamantino in the state of Mato Grosso, Central-West Brazil. Serum samples were examined by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). It was found a seroprevalence of 12.8%, considering titers ≥ 64. Therefore, the data reinforce the need for appropriate management of swine raising to minimize the risk of infection of pigs with T. gondii.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in swine matrices in Nova Mutum and Diamantino, Mato Grosso, Brazil / Soroprevalência de infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em matrizes suínas em Nova Mutum e Diamantino, Mato Grosso, Brasil

This report aimed to assess the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in 708 swine matrices in Nova Mutum and Diamantino in the state of Mato Grosso, Central-West Brazil. Serum samples were examined by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). It was found a seroprevalence of 12.8 percent, considering titers >64. Therefore, the data reinforce the need for appropriate management of swine raising to minimize the risk of infection of pigs with T. gondii.

No presente trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar a soroprevalência da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii, em 708 matrizes suínas dos municípios de Nova Mutum e Diamantino do Estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. As amostras de soro foram examinadas por meio da reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Foi encontrada a frequência de 12,8 por cento de soros positivos, com diluições iguais ou superiores a 64. Portanto, os dados obtidos reforçam a necessidade de um manejo de criação adequado, visando à minimização do risco de infecção de suínos por T. gondii.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in swine matrices in Nova Mutum and Diamantino, Mato Grosso, Brazil / Soroprevalência de infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em matrizes suínas em Nova Mutum e Diamantino, Mato Grosso, Brasil

This report aimed to assess the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in 708 swine matrices in Nova Mutum and Diamantino in the state of Mato Grosso, Central-West Brazil. Serum samples were examined by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). It was found a seroprevalence of 12.8%, considering titers 64. Therefore, the data reinforce the need for appropriate management of swine raising to minimize the risk of infection of pigs with T. gondii.(AU)

No presente trabalho, objetivou-se avaliar a soroprevalência da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii, em 708 matrizes suínas dos municípios de Nova Mutum e Diamantino do Estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. As amostras de soro foram examinadas por meio da reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Foi encontrada a frequência de 12,8% de soros positivos, com diluições iguais ou superiores a 64. Portanto, os dados obtidos reforçam a necessidade de um manejo de criação adequado, visando à minimização do risco de infecção de suínos por T. gondii.(AU)