Quercetin and ibuprofen combination displayed anti-inflammatory effects and also extenuates the enteric neurons damage of arthritic rats.

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of quercetin on the cellular components of the Enteric Nervous System in the ileum of rats with arthritis. Rats were distributed into five groups: control (C), arthritic (AIA), arthritic treated with ibuprofen (AI), arthritic treated with quercetin (AQ) and arthritic treated with both ibuprofen and quercetin (AIQ). The ileum was processed for immunohistochemical techniques for HuC/D, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide. Measurements in histological sections, chemiluminescence assays, and total antioxidant capacity were also performed. Rheumatoid arthritis resulted in a decrease in neuronal density, yet neuroplasticity mechanisms were evident through observed changes in varicosities size and neuronal area compared to the control group. Reduced paw edema and neuroprotective effects were predominantly noted in both plexuses, as evidenced by the increased density preservation of HuC/D-IR neurons in the AIQ group. The increase of lipoperoxidation levels and paw edema volume in the AQ group was observed compared to the arthritic, whereas the AIQ group mainly showed similar results to those observed in the control. The enteropathy associated with arthritis proved to be significant in the field of gastroenterology, and the combination of quercetin and ibuprofen demonstrated promising anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Morphological comparison of the larynx and trachea of Chelonia mydas (Linnaeus, 1758), Caiman yacare (Daudin, 1802) and Caiman latirostris (Daudin, 1802).

The larynx is in the lower respiratory tract and has the function of protecting the airways, controlling, and modulating breathing, assisting the circulatory system, and vocalizing. This study aims to describe the anatomy and histology of the skeleton of the larynx and trachea of the species Chelonia mydas, Caiman yacare and Caiman latirostris. The study was conducted at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), using nine specimens of Ch. mydas, 20 of Ca. yacare and four of Ca. latirostris. Samples of the larynx and trachea were collected, fixed, and sent for dissection of the structures and subsequent macroscopic analysis. For histology, samples were processed by the routine paraffin embedding method and stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Verhoeff. For the three species, two arytenoid cartilages, a cricoid cartilage, a hyoid apparatus composed of a base and two horns were found. In Ch. mydas, two structures called thyroid wings were observed, not found in crocodilians. The trachea of crocodilians presented incomplete tracheal rings and musculature, while the trachea of Ch. mydas presented complete tracheal rings. Histologically, the entire cartilaginous skeleton of the larynx of the three species, as well as the tracheal rings, are constituted by hyaline cartilage.

Intramuscular adipose tissue, muscle area, and power as predictors of performance in breast cancer survivors.

PURPOSE: The decline in physical performance, assessed by physical tests such as the timed up and go (TUG) test, is a consequence of reduced physiological reserves at higher levels of a hierarchical process. This occurs due to changes in muscle architecture, including atrophy and fat infiltration into the muscles, which in turn lead to changes in muscle function, resulting in reduced muscle strength and power and, consequently, affecting physical performance. This study investigated predictive factors for physical performance in breast cancer survivor (BCS), focusing on intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), quadríceps muscle area (QMA), and muscular power. METHODS: This observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study included 23 women without a history of cancer (age, 58.5 ± 8.3 years; BMI, 27.2 ± 5.1 kg/m2) and 56 BCS (age, 58.5 ± 8.3 years; BMI, 27.2 ± 5.1 kg/m2). QMA and IMAT were assessed using computed tomography images. Muscular power and physical performance were measured using the 5-repetition sit-to-stand and TUG tests, respectively. RESULTS: IMAT (r = 0.4, P < 0.01) and muscular power (r = - 0.4, P < 0.01) were associated with TUG performance in BCS, whereas QMA (r = - 0.22, P = 0.10) showed no significant association. QMA (r = 0.55, P < 0.01) was associated with muscular power, while no significant association was found between IMAT and muscular power (r = - 0.05, P = 0.73). Age explained 19% (P < 0.01) of TUG performance variability. Adding muscular power increased explanatory power by 12% (P < 0.01), and including IMAT further increased it by 7% (P = 0.02) for TUG performance. Collectively, age, muscular power, and IMAT accounted for 38% of the performance variance in the TUG test (age, B = 0.06, P = 0.043; muscular power, B = - 0.01, P = 0.002; IMAT, B = - 0.05, P = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that IMAT and muscular power predict the physical performance of BCS, while QMA does not have the same predictive capability.

Health-Related quality of life by 31-item Cervantes scale in breast cancer survivors undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy.

INTRODUCTION: Instruments to manage adverse effects of endocrine therapy with Aromatase inhibitors (AI) may improve adherence and persistence to treatment and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL). The 31-item Cervantes Scale (CS-31) is an HRQL questionnaire with particularities of the perimenopausal and postmenopausal period that could be an appropriate instrument to assess HRQL in Breast Cancer (BC) survivors. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to perform additional validation of the CS-31 for BC survivors undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy. METHODS: This prospective study was performed at three time points named T0, T1, and T2: initial, intermediate, and final follow-up period, respectively, totaling 24 months of follow-up. At each time point, the participants completed the CS-31, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Fatigue (FACIT-F), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The internal consistency, construct validity, responsiveness analyses, and known-group validity of CS-31 were evaluated. RESULTS: This study included 89 postmenopausal women diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive early BC in adjuvant endocrine therapy with AI. The internal consistency was good (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). Construct validity received a positive rating, with 100% of results consistent with prior hypotheses. A prospective improvement in HRQL was identified for the CS-31 Global Score and FACIT-F Total Score and for most of their domains. Furthermore, women with anxiety and depression by HADS presented worse HRQL by CS-31. CONCLUSION: The authors identified that the CS-31 seems to be appropriate for use in oncology medical routine and may help to monitor adverse effects and HRQL of BC survivors during adjuvant endocrine therapy.

Propulsive forces and muscle activation during gait: comparisons between premenopausal and postmenopausal midlife women.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a reduction in propulsive force during gait in postmenopausal women compared with premenopausal women. METHODS: Forty-four women (21 premenopausal and 23 postmenopausal women) aged 40 to 55 years were selected. The ability to reach peak propulsive forces was assessed during the step execution test. The test was performed at the usual speed on 2 nonconsecutive days, with two attempts per day, using a force platform. Four temporal parameters were defined and calculated: initiation phase, preparation phase, swing phase, and total time. Peak force (anteroposterior and vertical) and time to reach peak force were obtained in both preparation and swing phases. The rate of force development was defined as peak force divided by time to reach peak force. RESULTS: The postmenopausal women group presented a longer time in the preparation phase (540.6 ± 77 ms vs 482.5 ± 93 ms, P = 0.024) and consequently a longer total time in the step execution test (1,191 ± 106.4 ms vs 1,129 ± 114.3 ms, P = 0.045). There were differences between the groups for the rate of force development in the anteroposterior (postmenopausal women, 142.5 ± 38.1 N/s vs premenopausal women, 174.7 ± 70.5 N/s; P = 0.022) and vertical directions in the preparation phase (postmenopausal women, 102.7 ± 62.3 N/s vs premenopausal women, 145.3 ± 71 N/s; P = 0.012). No significant differences ( P > 0.05) were found in force, time to peak force, and rate of force development during the swing phase. In addition, there were no observed differences in surface electromyography of the medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscles during the preparation phase and swing phase of the step execution test between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Postmenopausal women exhibited lower ability to generate propulsive force rapidly (rates of force development) in both the anteroposterior and vertical directions during the preparation phase of gait compared with premenopausal women. This indicates that postmenopausal women experience a reduction in propulsive force during gait.

Assessing the robustness of muscle strength and physical performance measures in women older than 40 years: a test-retest reliability study.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) of muscle strength and physical performance tests in women older than 40 years. METHODS: A total of 113 women, aged 58 ± 11 years (82% postmenopausal women), with a body mass index of 28.5 ± 5.8 kg/m 2 , participated in this study. One-repetition maximum (1RM) tests were conducted for seven strength exercises: 45° leg press, bench press, leg extension, pec deck, wide-grip lateral pull-down, leg curl, and seated cable row, with a retest after 48 hours. Timed Up and Go (TUG), 6-minute walk, and 30-second sit-to-stand tests were performed on the same day and retested after 72 hours. The tests and retests were administered by the same evaluators. Relative reliability (consistency of participant rank between test-retest) was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient for consistency and agreement, and absolute reliability (precision of score) was assessed using the MDC based on the standard error of prediction. RESULTS: The 1RM and performance tests exhibited excellent reliability: 45° leg press (consistency, 0.99; agreement, 0.98), bench press (consistency, 0.96; agreement, 0.96), leg extension (consistency, 0.93; agreement, 0.91), pec deck (consistency, 0.90; agreement, 0.88), wide-grip lateral pull-down (consistency, 0.91; agreement, 0.89), leg curl (consistency, 0.84; agreement, 0.83), seated cable row (consistency, 0.92; agreement, 0.94), TUG (consistency, 0.87; agreement, 0.87), 6-minute walk (consistency, 0.96; agreement, 0.95), and 30-second sit to stand (consistency, 0.85; agreement, 0.80). These tests showed meaningful MDC values, particularly for the 1RM test performed on the machine and the 30-second sit-to-stand test: 45° leg press, 22.2 kg (15%); bench press, 4.9 kg (19%); leg extension, 9.2 kg (35%); pec deck, 8.8 kg (44%); wide-grip lateral pull-down, 9.4 kg (31%); leg curl, 9.2 kg (51%); seated cable row, 11.4 kg (29%); TUG, 1.4 seconds (20%); 6-minute walk, 50.9 m (10%); and 30-second sit to stand, 4.6 reps (30%). CONCLUSIONS: Although the muscle strength and physical performance tests demonstrate excellent relative reliability in women older than 40 years, they exhibit low absolute reliability, particularly the 1RM test performed on the machine and the 30-second sit-to-stand test. Therefore, although these tests show good consistency in the positioning of women within the group after repeated measures, their precision measure is relatively low (high fluctuation). Changes in these tests that are smaller than the MDC may not indicate real changes in women at middle age and older.

Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus Linnaeus, 1758) Tongue Morphology and Adaptive Herbivorous Implications.

Morphological study of the tongue is an interesting way of understanding evolutionary processes associated with feeding habits. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to describe the tongue morphology of the Antillean manatee and to understand possible morphological relationships with its way of capturing food. Macroscopic dissections and light and scanning electron microscopy analyses of seven manatee tongues were performed. The tongue in Antillean manatees is a muscular and robust organ, divided into apex, body, and root. It is firmly adhered to the floor of the oral cavity. Lingual papillae were distributed over the entire tongue surface. They were identified as filiform papillae concentrated in the apex. Fungiform papillae were present on the apex and lateral regions. Foliate papillae were located on the dorsolateral portion of the root. Lentiform papillae were located across the dorsal tongue surface. The mucosa was lined by a keratinized stratified squamous epithelium presenting compound tubuloacinar glands and taste buds in the foliate papillae. The tongue of the Antillean manatee is similar to other Sirenia species, both of which share a completely herbivorous diet.

Health-Related quality of life by 31-item Cervantes scale in breast cancer survivors undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy

ABSTRACT Introduction Instruments to manage adverse effects of endocrine therapy with Aromatase inhibitors (AI) may improve adherence and persistence to treatment and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL). The 31-item Cervantes Scale (CS-31) is an HRQL questionnaire with particularities of the perimenopausal and postmenopausal period that could be an appropriate instrument to assess HRQL in Breast Cancer (BC) survivors. Objective This study aimed to perform additional validation of the CS-31 for BC survivors undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy. Methods This prospective study was performed at three time points named T0, T1, and T2: initial, intermediate, and final follow-up period, respectively, totaling 24 months of follow-up. At each time point, the participants completed the CS-31, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Fatigue (FACIT-F), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The internal consistency, construct validity, responsiveness analyses, and known-group validity of CS-31 were evaluated. Results This study included 89 postmenopausal women diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive early BC in adjuvant endocrine therapy with AI. The internal consistency was good (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). Construct validity received a positive rating, with 100% of results consistent with prior hypotheses. A prospective improvement in HRQL was identified for the CS-31 Global Score and FACIT-F Total Score and for most of their domains. Furthermore, women with anxiety and depression by HADS presented worse HRQL by CS-31. Conclusion The authors identified that the CS-31 seems to be appropriate for use in oncology medical routine and may help to monitor adverse effects and HRQL of BC survivors during adjuvant endocrine therapy.

Novelties to the vascular Flora of the Ibitipoca Mountains, Minas Gerais, Brazil / Novidades para a Flora vascular da Serra do Ibitipoca, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Abstract The Ibitipoca Mountains occur in southeastern Minas Gerais state, Southeast Brazil, and includes a mosaic of different vegetation types, as part of the Atlantic Forest domain. Such heterogeneity results in the occurrence of several ecotones in the region, considered essential buffer zones for maintaining biodiversity and structure among adjacent ecosystems. Given the importance of these environments for biodiversity conservation, floristic surveys are important to catalogue plant richness in natural areas, where species and landscapes have been destroyed, especially over the last decades. To contribute to increase the knowledge on the vascular Flora in the Ibitipoca Mountains, a floristic inventory was undertaken in private properties located in the boundaries of "Parque Estadual do Ibitipoca" (Ibitipoca State Park). Relevant findings of the present study include: characterization of the different vegetation types, 17 new records for the Flora of Minas Gerais, collection of 288 species never recorded in the state park (80% dissimilarity - especially due to the occurrence and size of different phytophysiognomies between these areas) and presence of 31 threatened species. In addition, discussions about conservation efforts and public policies are presented.

Resumo A Serra do Ibitipoca ocorre no sudeste do estado de Minas Gerais, sudeste do Brasil, e inclui um mosaico de diferentes tipos de vegetação, como parte do domínio da Mata Atlântica. Tal heterogeneidade é resultado da ocorrência de diversos ecótonos na região, considerados áreas de amortecimento essenciais para manutenção da biodiversidade e estrutura de ecossistemas adjacentes. Dada a importância destes ambientes para conservação da biodiversidade, inventários florísticos são importantes para catalogar a riqueza de plantas em áreas naturais, onde espécies e paisagens têm sido destruídas, especialmente nas últimas décadas. Para contribuir com o aumento do conhecimento sobre a Flora vascular na Serra do Ibitipoca, um inventário florístico foi conduzido em áreas privadas adjacentes ao Parque Estadual do Ibitipoca. As descobertas mais relevantes do presente estudo incluem: caracterização dos diferentes tipos de vegetação, 17 novos registros para a Flora de Minas Gerais, coleta de 288 espécies nunca registradas para o parque (80% de dissimilaridade - especialmente devido à ocorrência e tamanho de diferentes fitofisionomias entre as áreas) e presença de 31 espécies ameaçadas. Além disso, discussões sobre esforços para conservação e políticas públicas são apresentadas.

Bed demand and occupancy within the Brazilian National Health System for the most common types of cancer in Brazil, from 2018 to 2021: a cross-sectional study / Demanda y ocupación de camas en el Sistema Único de Salud de los principales tipos de cáncer en Brasil, de 2018 a 2021: estudio transversal / Demanda e ocupação de leitos do Sistema Único de Saúde para os principais tipos de câncer no Brasil, de 2018 a 2021: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze bed demand and occupancy within the Brazilian National Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS) for the main types of cancer in Brazil, from 2018 to 2021. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, using data from the Hospital Information System. Queuing theory model was used for calculating average admission rate, average hospitalization rate, probability of overload, and average number of people in the queue. Results The Southeast and South regions showed the highest average hospitalization rates, while the North region showed the lowest rates. The Southeast region presented a high probability of surgical bed overload, especially in the states of São Paulo (99.0%), Minas Gerais (97.0%) and Rio de Janeiro (97.0%). São Paulo state showed an overload above 95.0% in all types of beds analyzed. Conclusion There was a high probability of oncology bed occupancy within the Brazilian National Health System, especially surgical and medical beds, and regional disparities in bed overload.

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar la demanda y ocupación de camas en el Sistema Único de Salud (SUS) de los principales tipos de cáncer en Brasil, de 2018 a 2021. Métodos Estudio descriptivo transversal, utilizando datos del Sistema de Información Hospitalaria. Se realizaron cálculos basados en el modelo de teoría de colas de: tasa promedio de ingreso por hospitalización, tasa promedio de hospitalización, probabilidad de sobrecarga y número promedio de personas en lista de espera. Resultados Las regiones Sur y Sureste presentaron las tasas promedio de hospitalización más altas, mientras que la región Norte tuvo las tasas más bajas. La región Sureste presentó alta probabilidad de sobrecarga de camas quirúrgicas, sobre todo San Pablo (99,0%), Minas Gerais (97,0%) y Río de Janeiro (97,0%). San Pablo presentó sobrecarga superior al 95,0% en todos los tipos de camas analizadas. Conclusión Hubo alta probabilidad de ocupación de camas de oncología en el SUS, mayormente en quirúrgicas y clínicas, además de disparidades regionales en la sobrecarga de camas.

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a demanda e a ocupação de leitos do Sistema Único de Saúde para os principais tipos de câncer no Brasil, de 2018 a 2021. Métodos Estudo transversal, descritivo, com dados do Sistema de Informação Hospitalar. Por meio do modelo de teoria de filas, foram calculados: taxa média de entrada para internação, taxa média de internação, probabilidade de sobrecarga e número médio de pessoas em fila. Resultados As regiões Sudeste e Sul apresentaram as maiores taxas médias de internação, enquanto a região Norte obteve as menores taxas. A região Sudeste obteve alta probabilidade de sobrecarga de leitos cirúrgicos, principalmente São Paulo (99,0%), Minas Gerais (97,0%) e Rio de Janeiro (97,0%). São Paulo mostrou sobrecarga acima de 95,0% em todos os tipos de leitos analisados. Conclusão Constatou-se alta probabilidade de ocupação de leitos oncológicos no SUS, em especial os cirúrgicos e clínicos, e disparidades regionais na sobrecarga dos leitos.

Sampling collections and metadata of planorbidae (Mollusca: Gastropoda) in Brazil: a comprehensive analysis of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute's Mollusk Collection from 1948 to 2023.

Planorbidae comprises approximately 40 genera of freshwater gastropods, including roughly 250 species. Among the Planorbidae subfamilies, the significance of Planorbinae is due to its genus Biomphalaria, whose species are intermediate hosts of the trematode Schistosoma mansoni Sambon, 1907, which causes schistosomiasis in humans and animals. Here, we present the analysis of the dataset of Planorbidae housed in the Collection of Mollusks of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, with a special focus on Biomphalaria species. This dataset includes 7,267 lots originating from 55 countries, representing 20 genera and 75 species collected from 1948 to 2023. Collections were performed in all regions of Brazil, comprising specimens from 26 states and the Federal District, particularly from the Southeast and Northeast. Within the dataset, Biomphalaria includes 3,926 lots of 31 species from 42 countries. These records will help improve our comprehension of schistosomiasis transmission dynamics and the geographic distributions of these medically important species.

FioSchisto's expert perspective on implementing WHO guidelines for schistosomiasis control and transmission elimination in Brazil.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes schistosomiasis as one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases targeted for global elimination in the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals. In Brazil, schistosomiasis mansoni is considered a public health problem, particularly prevalent among vulnerable populations living in areas with poor environmental and sanitary conditions. In 2022, the WHO published a Guideline encompassing recommendations to assist national programs in endemic countries in achieving morbidity control, eliminating schistosomiasis as a public health problem, and advancing towards interrupting transmission. The perspectives presented here, collectively prepared by members of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation's (Fiocruz) Schistosomiasis Translational Program (FioSchisto), along with invited experts, examine the feasibility of the WHO recommendations for the Brazilian settings, providing appropriate recommendations for public health policies applicable to the epidemiological reality of Brazil, and suggests future research to address relevant issues. In Brazil, the provision of safe water and sanitation should be the key action to achieve schistosomiasis elimination goals. The agencies involved in measures implementation should act together with the Primary Care teams for planning, executing, monitoring, and evaluating actions in priority municipalities based on their epidemiological indicators. Host snails control should prioritize judicious ecological interventions at breeding sites. The Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategy should be associated with water and sanitation and other control actions, actively involving school community. To identify infected carriers, FioSchisto recommends a two-stage approach of immunological and molecular tests to verify transmission interruption during the intervention and beyond. Praziquantel administration should be done under medical supervision at the Primary Care level. MDA should be considered in exceptional settings, as a measure of initial attack strategy in locations presenting high endemicity, always integrated with water and sanitation, IEC, and snail control. To assist decision-making, as well as the monitoring and evaluation of strategic actions, there is a need for an Information System. FioSchisto considers this systematization essential to make investments in strategic research to support the improvement of schistosomiasis control actions. Efforts toward schistosomiasis elimination in Brazil will succeed with a paradigm shift from the vertical prescriptive framework to a community-centered approach involving intersectoral and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Surgical resection of retrohepatic inferior vena cava leiomyosarcoma without vascular reconstruction: case report.

Inferior vena cava leiomyosarcoma (IVCL) is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumor. Surgical treatment is a challenge because it must combine free surgical margins with vascular reconstruction, using prosthetic or autologous grafts, primary suture, or simple ligation without vein reconstruction. The ligation option is possible thanks to the slow growth of the tumor, allowing collateral venous circulation to develop. We present a case of an IVCL treated with radical resection without vascular reconstruction. The patient was a 48-year-old female with abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant, asthenia, and postprandial dyspeptic symptoms. Abdominal tomography revealed a mass with an expansive formation located in the infrahepatic segment of the inferior vena cava and reduced vessel lumen. During surgery, vein clamping did not provoke hemodynamic repercussions, suggesting sufficient collateral circulation formation. It was decided to perform a radical resection of the entire portion of the retrohepatic vena cava and ligate the vena cava without vascular reconstruction. The patient recovered without complications.

Erratum: Single-center developing country analysis of radium-223 therapy in prostate cancer-preliminary results.

[This corrects the article on p. 352 in vol. 11, PMID: 34754606.].

Health-related quality of life and use of medication with anticholinergic activity in patients with multiple myeloma.

PURPOSE: Verify the association between anticholinergic burden and health-related quality of life of patients with multiple myeloma. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with multiple myeloma outpatient from a state capital city in southeastern Brazil. Sociodemographic, clinical, and pharmacotherapeutic variables were collected by interview. Clinical data were complemented by medical records. Drugs with anticholinergic activity were identified with Brazilian Anticholinergic Activity Drug Scale. Health-related quality of life scores were obtained using QLQ-C30 and QLQ-MY20 instruments. Mann-Whitney was used to compare the median of the health-related quality of life scale scores and the independent variables. Multivariate linear regression was performed to verify the association between independent variables and health-related quality of life scores. RESULTS: Two hundred thirteen patients were included, 56.3% had multi-morbidities, and 71.8% used polypharmacy. In all health-related quality of life domains, there were differences between the medians of the polypharmacy variable. A significant difference was identified between the ACh burden and QLQ-C30 and QLQ-MY20 scores. Linear regression identified an association between the use of drugs with anticholinergic activity and the reduction of global status scores (QLQ-C30), functional scale (QLQ-C30), body image (QLQ-MY20), and future perspective (QLQ-MY20). Drugs with anticholinergic activity were associated with increased symptom scores (QLQ-C30 and QLQ-MY20). Polypharmacy was associated with reduction of functioning score and increase of symptom score (QLQ-C30). CONCLUSION: Anticholinergic burden in MM patients is associated with lower scores in quality of life domains: global health and symptoms (QLQ-C30) and functional (QLQ-C30 and QLQ-MY20). The presence of polypharmacy is also associated with lower scores for functional scales and symptom scales (QLQ-C30).

Molecular detection of Leishmania and blood meal analysis in sand flies from Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.

In this study, we investigated the presence of Leishmania in sand flies collected from a peridomestic area in Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul, after an autochthonous case of cutaneous leishmaniasis was confirmed. A total of 1,542 sand flies belonging to seven species were collected, with Lu. cruzi being the most prevalent (94.3%). We detected the presence of DNA from Le. infantum (7 pools) and Le. braziliensis (3 pools) by sequencing the ITS1 amplicon in ten pools, all of which were composed of engorged (3) and non-engorged (7) females of Lu. cruzi. We collected 24 engorged females, with Homo sapiens being the most common blood meal source (91.6%), followed by Dasyprocta azarae and Canis lupus familiaris (4.2% each). To our knowledge, this is the first molecular evidence of Le. braziliensis in wild-caught Lu. cruzi in Brazil, suggesting its potential role as a vector for this parasite.

Formas de enfrentamento do câncer de mama: discurso de mulheres mastectomizadas / Ways of coping with breast cancer: discourse of mastectomized women

Introdução: Na neoplasia de mama ocorrem inúmeras transformações na vida da pessoa acometida e de todas as pessoas próximas, sentimentos como medo, angústia e tristeza. Diante disso, a identificação dos métodos usados para enfrentar a neoplasia de mama faz-se crucial, visto que proporciona melhor vivência desse momento por parte da mulher e de todos os envolvidos. Objetivo: Compreender as formas de enfrentamento do câncer de mama por meio do discurso de participantes de um grupo de apoio. Metodologia: Pesquisa descritiva com abordagem qualitativa realizada com 10 mulheres que participam de um grupo geral de apoio, localizado em um município da Paraíba, Brasil. Para a coleta de dados, utilizou-se entrevista semiestruturada, e como processo metodológico para a análise dos dados, o Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Resultados: Foi possível a compreensão de três ideias centrais em relação às formas de enfrentamento do câncer de mama: ''Ancoragem na fé e espiritualidade''; ''Suporte familiar''; e ''Grupo de apoio''. Conclusão: O estudo atingiu seu objetivo de identificar as principais formas de enfrentamento do câncer de mama por mulheres mastectomizadas, podendo elucidar a importância da fé e espiritualidade, o suporte familiar e a participação em grupos de apoio por meio do discurso das participantes.

Introducción: Con el cáncer de mama se producen numerosos cambios en la vida de la persona afectada y de las personas cercanas, en los que se manifiestan sentimientos como el miedo, la angustia y la tristeza. Ante eso, la identificación de los métodos utilizados para enfrentar el cáncer de mama es crucial, ya que permite una mejor vivencia de ese momento para la mujer y los involucrados. Objetivo: Comprender las formas de afrontamiento del cáncer de mama, a través del discurso de mujeres mastectomizadas en un grupo de apoyo. Metodología: Investigación descriptiva con enfoque cualitativo realizada con 10 mujeres que participan en un grupo de apoyo, ubicado en un municipio de Paraíba, Brasil. Para la recolección de datos, se utilizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas. Además, como proceso metodológico de análisis de datos, se aplicó el Discurso Colectivo del Sujeto. Resultados: Fue posible comprender tres ideas centrales sobre las formas de enfrentamiento del cáncer de mama: ''Anclaje en la fe y la espiritualidad''; ''Apoyo familiar''y ''Grupo de apoyo''. Conclusión: El estudio alcanzó su objetivo de identificar las principales formas de enfrentamiento del cáncer de mama por parte de las mujeres con mastectomía. Se pudo dilucidar la importancia de la fe y la espiritualidad, el apoyo familiar y la participación en grupos de apoyo, a través del discurso de las participantes.

Introduction: When facing breast cancer, patients and their loving ones experiment many changes in their lives filled with feelings such as fear, anguish, and sadness. In the light of this, the identification of the coping methods used to face breast cancer is crucial to provide a better experience for all those involved. Objective: To understand the ways of coping with breast cancer through the discourse of mastectomized women in a support group. Methodology: Descriptive research with a qualitative approach carried out with 10 women who participate in a support group, located in a municipality in Paraíba, Brasil. For data collection, semi-structured interviews were conducted and as a methodological process for data analysis, the Collective Subject Discourse was used. Results: It was possible to understand three central coping mechanisms: ''Anchoring in faith and spirituality''; ''Family support'', and ''Support group''. Conclusion: The study reached its objective of identifying the main ways of coping with breast cancer by women who had mastectomies, their discourse highlighted the importance of faith and spirituality, the support of their families, and their participation in support groups.

Calculation of the Minimal Important Clinical Difference of the Lysholm and IKDC Scores After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Objective To calculate the minimal important clinical difference (MICD) value for the Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores in a sample of patients submitted to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Methods Primary, observational, retrospective, analytical study of participants submitted to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction from March 2019 to December 2020 by the same surgeon, with a minimum follow-up of 6 months, analysis of knee function in the pre- and postoperative period by the Lysholm and IKDC scores, and answer to an anchor question at 6 months postoperatively for the calculation of the MICD of each score. Results A total of 59 patients participated in the study, with a mean age of 27.1 ± 5.7 years old. In the comparison between pre- and postoperative scores of all groups, there was an increase in values with statistical significance after intervention. The MICD was 5.5 for the Lysholm score, and the MICD value for the IKDC score could not be determined. Conclusion For the Lysholm score, the calculation of the MICD value by the anchor question method in the sample evaluated was 5.5. It was not possible to determine the value of the MICD for the IKDC score.

Calculation of the Minimal Important Clinical Difference of the Lysholm and IKDC Scores After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / Cálculo da mínima diferença clínica importante dos escores Lysholm e IKDC após reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior

Abstract Objective To calculate the minimal important clinical difference (MICD) value for the Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores in a sample of patients submitted to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Methods Primary, observational, retrospective, analytical study of participants submitted to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction from March 2019 to December 2020 by the same surgeon, with a minimum follow-up of 6 months, analysis of knee function in the pre- and postoperative period by the Lysholm and IKDC scores, and answer to an anchor question at 6 months postoperatively for the calculation of the MICD of each score. Results A total of 59 patients participated in the study, with a mean age of 27.1 ± 5.7 years old. In the comparison between pre- and postoperative scores of all groups, there was an increase in values with statistical significance after intervention. The MICD was 5.5 for the Lysholm score, and the MICD value for the IKDC score could not be determined. Conclusion For the Lysholm score, the calculation of the MICD value by the anchor question method in the sample evaluated was 5.5. It was not possible to determine the value of the MICD for the IKDC score.

Resumo Objetivo Calcular o valor da mínima diferença clinicamente importante (MDCI) para os escores de Lysholm e International Knee Documentation Commitee (IKDC) na amostra de pacientes submetidos a reconstrução de ligamento cruzado anterior. Métodos Estudo primário, observacional, retrospectivo, analítico, de participantes submetidos a reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior no período de março de 2019 a dezembro de 2020, pelo mesmo cirurgião, com seguimento mínimo de 6 meses, análise da função do joelho no período pré e pós-operatório pelos escores de Lysholm e IKDC, e resposta a uma pergunta âncora aos 6 meses de seguimento pós-operatório, para o MDCI de cada escore. Resultados Participaram do estudo 59 pacientes, com média de idade de 27,1 ± 5,7 anos. Na comparação dos escores pré- e pós-operatórios de todos os grupos, observa-se aumento dos valores com significância estatística após a intervenção. A MDCI foi de 5,5 para o escore de Lysholm, não tendo sido possível determinar o valor para o IKDC. Conclusão O cálculo do valor da MDCI pelo método da pergunta âncora, na amostra avaliada, foi de 5,5 para o escore de Lysholm. Não foi possível determinar o valor da MDCI para o IKDC.

A retrospective report on the preoperative mandatory SARS-COV-2 infection screening in a single pediatric center. Is it time to stop testing our patients?

The novel coronavirus SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic dramatically changed the workflow of healthcare professionals around the world. Surgical procedures were withheld and postponed in a scenario of fear and uncertainty. Despite numerous medical institutions having swiftly and widely implemented pre-operative screening protocols, cost-effective studies remain scarce specially when comparing to other mitigation measures such as the donning of masks and social distancing measures. The objective of our study is to report the monthly positivity rates of SARS-COV-2 infection in our service and compare our data with monthly positivity rates reported by the State Health Department. Between April, 2020, to February, 2022, 7,199 patients had the RT-PCR for SARS-COV-2 collected, with 187 (2.59%) testing positive for COVID-19. Most of them (62.1%) were asymptomatic. The most common symptoms were coryza (10.7%), fever (10%), and diarrhea (8.7%). Nonetheless, there were two deaths due to COVID-19 reported in our center. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the impact of pre-operative screening for SARS-COV-2 in asymptomatic patients.