Effect of Density and Lineage on Dorsal Surface Temperature, Performance, and Carcass Condemnation of Broiler Grillers.

The aims of this study were (i) to evaluate the effect of density, lineage, age, and time of day on dorsal surface temperature and (ii) to evaluate the effect of density and lineage on performance and carcass condemnations in broiler grillers. The evaluations were carried out in barns with the Dark House system, with two densities, 17 and 19 chickens/m2 and two lineages, Cobb and Ross. The dorsal surface temperature of the chickens was measured by infrared thermography at 7, 14, 21, 23, 25 and 27 days of age, four times a day. The average daily weight gain, feed conversion, mortality, partial carcass condemnations, as well as those due to arthritis and dermatosis were also evaluated. The highest dorsal surface temperatures were observed in Cobbs housed at a density of 17 chickens/m2, and in Ross housed at a density of 19 chickens/m2. Cobbs housed at a 17 chickens/m2 density showed the lowest feed conversion compared to Ross at the same density. Ross showed higher dorsal surface temperatures when compared to Cobbs at 14, 21, and 27 days. Cobbs showed higher percentages of partial carcass condemnation and arthritis compared to Ross. The higher density of broiler grillers in the Dark House system does not influence the dorsal surface temperature, performance, dermatosis, arthritis, and partial carcass condemnations.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in indoor dust from Brazil: assessing demographic differences and human health exposure.

Indoor house dust is considered an important human exposure route to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which has raised concern about their environmental persistence and toxicity properties. In this study, eight PBDEs (BDE-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, -183, and -209) were determined in house dust from two cities with different socio-demographic characteristics from Brazil, examining possible relationships with factors that potentially influence contamination (population density, economic activities, presence of electronic equipment, and so on) and also estimating the risk of human exposure through oral ingestion and dermal contact. The Σ8PBDE concentration in Sorocaba city ranged between 380 and 4269 ng/g dw, while in Itapetininga city ranged from 106 to 1000 ng/g dw. In both regions, BDE-209 was the most abundantly found congener, followed by BDE-99. House dust from Sorocaba presented significantly greater concentrations of BDE-183 and BDE-209 than Itapetininga. Regarding risk exposure assessment, the estimated daily intake (EDI) of PBDEs was much lower than their respective reference doses (RfDs) in all pathways estimated (non-dietary ingestion and dermal contact). This study provided valuable data to improve the knowledge about the presence and exposure to PBDEs in Brazilian house dust in comparison to other developing countries and the need to control environmental pollution and protect human health.

Acceptability and feasibility of a comprehensive fall prevention model for independent older adults: A qualitative evaluation.

Background: Falls amongst the elderly represent a global public health challenge because of their potential to cause illness, death, and reduce the autonomy of this group. They also impact the emotional, family, social and economic well-being of those involved. Various strategies to prevent falls have been reported in the literature, focusing mainly on addressing individual risk factors, and on the continuous assessment of the risk of falls in older people. Objective: This study evaluated user satisfaction and acceptability of a comprehensive model, implemented in the community, to prevent falls amongst independent older adults aged 65 years and above. It sought to capture both the perceptions of the individuals who received the intervention and of the interventionists who implemented it. The study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov in November 2020 (ID: NCT04313062). Design: Qualitative, exploratory study using a case study design. The evaluation of the intervention followed the recommendations proposed by the Medical Research Council for complex interventions. Methods and participants: In the period between April 2021 to April 2022, 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted with independent older adults between 65 and 80 years of age who participated in the implementation of the comprehensive model in Santiago, Chile. Data were also collected with eight interventionists through: three semi-structured interviews at the beginning of the intervention; and two focus groups with seven interventionists at the end of the implementation of the model. The team members undertook a content analysis of the data collected. Results: Three themes emerged to account for the satisfaction and acceptability of the intervention with the model on the part of the participants and interventionists: (1) Previous experience of older persons and interventionists; (2) The older person-interventionist encounter and its context; and (3) Identification of facilitators, strengths and challenges for the implementation of the model. The results show a positive assessment of the model, highlighting the value of the social contact derived from the intervention by both participants and interventionists. Although the model involved an individual intervention, the participants' accounts indicate that it reached out to others, including family members and other elderly acquaintances. Moreover, the interventionists helped identify challenges in implementation and made recommendations to strengthen the model. Conclusion: The evaluation of satisfaction and feasibility of implementing the model showed positive results that will nurture the next phase of development of this model, which involves scaling up the intervention.

Role of projective psychological tests in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness and relevance of projective techniques such as house-tree-person (HTP) and family in individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), who have a limited ability to identify and verbalize emotions and express them often using behaviors. METHODS: We included individuals with genetic confirmation of PWS immersed in a regular transdisciplinary treatment in an institution dedicated to rare diseases. All individuals were evaluated using the HTP and family projective techniques. These instruments are commonly administered to the general population and, in this case, to people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, including difficulties in their communication abilities. RESULTS: A total of 25 individuals with PWS between 10 and 41 years old (15 men and 10 women) were included. We identified the presence of graphic indicators corresponding to the behavioral phenotype of individuals with PWS, such as anxiety, stubbornness, emotional lability, difficulty in achieving adequate externalization and identification of emotions, impulsivity, aggressive traits, poor social skills, need for support and interaction, low self-concept, and compulsive behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, we demonstrated the usefulness of graphic techniques to elucidate aspects of behavior, emotions, and thoughts that individuals with PWS cannot formulate due to expression and communication difficulties.

IgE-Mediated Sensitization to Blo t 21 and Blo t 5 Is Associated With Asthma in the Tropics: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Sensitization to Blomia tropicalis is associated with asthma in various tropical and subtropical countries; however, information about the specific molecular components associated with this disease is scarce. Using molecular diagnosis, we sought to identify B tropicalis allergens associated with asthma in Colombia. METHODS: Specific IgE (sIgE) to 8 B tropicalis recombinant allergens (Blo t 2, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, and 21) was determined using an in-house ELISA system in asthma patients (n=272) and controls (n=298) recruited in a national prevalence study performed in several Colombian cities (Barranquilla, Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and San Andrés). The study sample included children and adults (mean [SD] age, 28 [17] years). Cross-reactivity between Blo t 5 and Blo t 21 was evaluated using ELISA-inhibition. RESULTS: Specific IgE (sIgE) to 8 B tropicalis recombinant allergens (Blo t 2, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, and 21) was determined using an in-house ELISA system in asthma patients (n=272) and controls (n=298) recruited in a national prevalence study performed in several Colombian cities (Barranquilla, Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and San Andrés). The study sample included children and adults (mean [SD] age, 28 [17] years). Cross-reactivity between Blo t 5 and Blo t 21 was evaluated using ELISA-inhibition. CONCLUSION: Although Blo t 5 and Blo t 21 are considered common sensitizers, this is the first report of their association with asthma. Both components should be included in molecular panels for diagnosis of allergy in the tropics.

Principais dificuldades enfrentadas por cirurgiões-dentistas no atendimento domiciliar na estratégia saúde da família / Main difficulties faced by dental surgeons in home care in the family health strategy

O objetivo da pesquisa foi apresentar uma revisão narrativa de literatura sobre as principais dificuldades enfrentadas por cirurgiões-dentistas no atendimento domiciliar na Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF). Realizou-se um levantamento bibliográfico com base nos bancos de dados eletrônicos (Google Acadêmico, SCIELO, BVS), com captação de documentos do Ministério da Saúde e artigos de língua inglesa e portuguesa, nos anos de 2000 a 2021. Elegeu-se 21 artigos que apresentaram o objeto de estudo com visão crítica. Foi realizada pesquisa e descrição sobre a Estratégia Saúde da Família, sobre o atendimento domiciliar e também sobre os profissionais de saúde bucal que participam do atendimento domiciliar na Estratégia Saúde da Família. O atendimento domiciliar é usado pela equipe da Estratégia Saúde da Família com foco nos usuários que não se deslocam até a Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS) por motivos físicos, mentais e/ou sociais. Após o acréscimo da Equipe de Saúde Bucal (ESB) na Estratégia Saúde da Família, os mesmos também passaram a realizar atendimentos domiciliares. Os principais afazeres realizados pela equipe em domicílio são com foco na promoção, prevenção e tratamento. Contudo os cirurgiões-dentistas enfrentam dificuldades que atrapalham os atendimentos domiciliares, podendo-se citar: vias urbanas precária; violência; tráfico de drogas; falta de transporte; demanda de equipamentos e instrumentai; biossegurança e ergonomia que são difíceis alcançar em domicílio.

The objective of the research was to present a narrative review of the literature on the main difficulties faced by dentists in home care in the Family Health Strategy (ESF). A bibliographical survey was carried out based on electronic databases (Google Academic, SCIELO, BVS), with collection of documents from the Ministry of Health and articles in English and Portuguese, in the years 2000 to 2021. 21 articles were chosen that presented the object of study with a critical view. A research and description was carried out on the Family Health Strategy (ESF). Home care is usedby the Family Health Strategy team, focusing on users who do not go to the Basic Health Unit (UBS) for physical, mental and/or social reasons. After the addition of the Oral Health Team (ESB) to the ESF, They also began to provide home care. The main tasks performed by the theam at home are focused on promotion, prevention and treatment. However, dentists face difficulties that hinder home care, such as: prearious urban roads; violence; drug trafficking; lack of trasportation; demand for equipment and instruments; biosafety and ergonomics that are difficult to achieve at home.

[IgE reactivity of sera from patients with autoimmune diseases against a multi-epitope protein constructed from T epitopes of Ascaris lumbricoides allergens]. / Reactividad IgE de sueros en pacientes con enfermedades autoinmunes, frente a una proteína multi-epítopes construida a partir de epítopes T de alérgenos de Ascaris lumbricoides.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the IgE reactivity of sera in patients suffering from type 1 diabetes (T1D), lupus nephritis (LN) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) against a molecule constructed from T epitopes of A. lumbricoides allergens. METHODS: We designed and expressed a synthetic multi-epítope protein named MP1 from A. lumbricoides and house dust mites allergens. By indirect ELISA, we evaluated IgE-reactivity to MP1 and to the whole-body extract of Ascaris lumbricoides in 45 sera from Colombian Caribbean patients with lupus nephritis (LN; n=25), type 1 diabetes (T1D; n=10) and Juvenil idiopathic arthritis (JIA; n=10). Individuals with poly autoimmunity were excluded. All patients were referred to the study by their specialist doctor. RESULTS: IgE to whole-body extract of A. lumbricoides showed the following median concentrations.484.2 ng/ml (IQR: 203.4) in JIA patients, 325.6 ng/ml (IQR: 179.3) in individuals with LN, and 424.7 ng/ml (IQR: 80.1) in the T1D group. On the other hand, IgE-reactivity to MP1 was 126.4 ng/ml (IQR: 90.9) in JIA patients, 130.7 ng/ml (IQR: 94.8) in an individual with LN, and 148.8 ng/ml (IQR: 102.1) in the T1D group. Although no statistical differences were observed between patient groups, the IgE to MP1 in all patients (n: 45) (IgE median: 134.2 ng/ml; IQR: 100) were significantly less compared to Ascaris extract (IgE median: 380.7 ng/ml; IQR: 175.8); (W: 0.732; p-value: 1.034x10-7). CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary results suggest that MP1 showed antigenic properties with low IgE- reactivity, compared to Ascaris lumbricoides extracted in individuals with autoimmune diseases. Further studies are needed to understand better the immune response induced by this molecule.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la reactividad IgE de sueros en pacientes que padecen diabetes tipo 1 (DT1), nefritis lúpica (NL) y artritis idiopática juvenil (AIJ) frente a una molécula construida a partir de epítopes T de alérgenos de A. lumbricoides. MÉTODOS: Se diseñó y expresó una proteína multi-epítopes sintética (MP1), a partir de alérgenos de A. lumbricoides y ácaros del polvo doméstico. Mediante ELISA indirecto, se evaluaron las reactividades IgE anti-MP1 y al extracto de cuerpo entero de Ascaris lumbricoides, en sueros de pacientes con nefritis lúpica (NL; n=25), diabetes tipo 1 (T1D; n=10) y artritis idiopática juvenil (AIJ; n=10), procedentes del Caribe colombiano. Se excluyeron los individuos con poliautoinmunidad. Todos los pacientes fueron remitidos al estudio por su médico especialista. RESULTADOS: La IgE frente al extracto de cuerpo completo de A. lumbricoides mostró concentraciones de 484,2 ng/ml (RIQ: 203,4) en pacientes con AIJ; 325,6 ng/ml (RIQ: 179,3) en individuos con NL; y 424,7 ng/ml (RIQ: 80,1) en el grupo con DT1. Por otra parte, la reactividad de IgE anti-MP1 fue de 126,4 ng/ml (RIQ: 90,9) en los pacientes con AIJ; 130,7 ng/ml (RIQ: 94,8) en los individuos con NL; y 148,8 ng/ml (RIQ: 102,1) en el grupo con DT1. Aunque no se observaron diferencias estadísticas entre los grupos de pacientes, la reactividad IgE anti- MP1 en todos los pacientes (n: 45) (mediana de IgE: 134,2 ng/ml; RIQ: 100), fue significativamente inferior en comparación con el extracto de Ascaris (mediana de IgE: 380,7 ng/ml; RIQ: 175,8); (W: 0,732; p-valor: 1,034x10-7). CONCLUSIONES: Estos resultados preliminares sugieren que MP1 mostró propiedades antigénicas con baja reactividad IgE, en comparación con el extracto de Ascaris lumbricoides en individuos con enfermedades autoinmunes. Se necesitan más estudios para comprender mejor la respuesta inmunitaria inducida por esta molécula.

[Ige reactivity of a recombinant multi-epitope protein designed from allergens of interest in the tropics - preliminary findings]. / Reactividad IgE de una proteína multi-epítope recombinante diseñada a partir de alérgenos de interés en el trópico - hallazgos preliminares.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to design a multi-epitope protein from A. lumbricoides and APD allergens and to evaluate its IgE reactivity preliminarily. METHODS: Using computational tools, a molecule containing multiple "T" epitopes of allergens derived from A. lumbricoides and APD was designed "in silico" This multi-epitope protein (MP1) was expressed using an E. coli system and purified by affinity chromatography using Ni-NTA agarose. Anti-MP1 and anti-HDM extract IgE reactivity was evaluated by Dot-Blot and indirect ELISA from sera of HDM-allergic patients and non-allergic individuals from Barranquilla-Colombia. Allergic individuals had a positive skin test to a standardized battery of inhaled allergens (EUROLINE - Ref: DP 3704-1601-1 E) and mite- specific IgE. RESULTS: Multi-epitope (MP1) protein was expressed and purified with high purity. Dot-Blot result showed that all sera from allergic patients showed lower IgE reactivity to MP1 compared to HDM extract. By ELISA, significantly lower concentrations of anti-MP1 IgE (Median: 270.86 ng/ml; IQR: 90.3) were observed in contrast to anti-HDM IgE levels (Median: 988.5 ng/ml; IQR: 1117.6) in sera of patients allergic to HDM. CONCLUSIONS: A protein composed of multiple epitopes of A. lumbricoides and HDM allergens was designed, expressed, and purified. Preliminary Dot-Blot results suggest that this molecule shows hypoallergenic properties with very low IgE reactivity compared to mite extract. Further functional studies are needed to understand better the immune response induced by this molecule.

OBJETIVO: Diseñar una proteína multiepítope a partir de alérgenos de A. lumbricoides y APD; y evaluar preliminarmente su reactividad IgE. MÉTODOS: Mediante herramientas computacionales se diseñó In Silico, una molécula que contiene múltiples epítopos T, de alérgenos derivados de A. lumbricoides y APD. Esta proteína multiepítope (MP1) se expresó utilizando un sistema de E. coli, y se purificó mediante cromatografía de afinidad, empleando agarosa Ni-NTA. La reactividad IgE anti-MP1 y anti-extracto de APD, se evaluó mediante Dot-Blot y ELISA indirecta, a partir de suero de pacientes alérgicos a APD, e individuos no alérgicos procedentes de Barranquilla, Colombia. Los individuos alérgicos contaron con prueba cutánea positiva a una batería estandarizada de alérgenos inhalados (EUROLINE - Ref: DP 3704-1601-1 E) e IgE específica para ácaros. RESULTADOS: La proteína multiepítope MP1 se expresó y purificó con alta pureza. El resultado del Dot-Blot, mostró que todos los sueros de pacientes alérgicos tuvieron una reactividad IgE menor a MP1 en comparación al extracto de APD. Por ELISA, se observaron concentraciones significativamente menores de IgE anti-MP1 (Mediana: 270,86 ng/ml; RIQ: 90,3), en contraste a los niveles de IgE anti-APD (Mediana: 988,5 ng/ml; RIQ: 1117,6), en suero de pacientes alérgicos a APD. CONCLUSIONES: Se diseñó, expresó y purificó una proteína compuesta por múltiples epítopes de alérgenos de A. lumbricoides y APD. Los resultados preliminares de Dot-Blot sugieren que esta molécula muestra propiedad hipoalergénica con una reactividad IgE muy baja, en comparación con el extracto de ácaros. Se necesita continuar con estudios funcionales para comprender mejor la respuesta inmune inducida por esta molécula.

[Frequency of sensitization to shrimp with house dust mite immunotherapy with polymerized extracts]. / Frecuencia de sensibilización a camarón con inmunoterapia a ácaros con extractos polimerizados.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the risk of IgE sensitization and symptoms to shrimp in a population that has received AIT with polymerized mite extract. METHODS: Patients with allergic rhinitis sensitized to dust mites (Dermatophogides spp) with an indication for mite AIT were included. Those patients who had not yet received AIT or had received less than 6 doses were included as controls and those who had received more than 24 doses of AIT were included as cases. Sensitization to shrimp was assessed by skin prick test with complete shrimp extract and/or shrimp-specific IgE. RESULTS: A total of 68 patients were included; 47 cases and 21 controls. When calculating the odds ratio of sensitization according to time with immunotherapy we observed that there were no differences between the group of cases and controls (OR 0.76 95% CI 0.26 to 2.22 p 0.7 by MacNemar technique). Factors such as consumption or not of shrimp and frequency of consumption do not seem to be related to the outcome. CONCLUSION: In contrast to what was reported with aqueous extracts, we observed that AIT with polymerized extracts is not a risk factor for shrimp sensitization. It is necessary to reproduce these results with a larger sample size to explore other factors.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el riesgo de sensibilización IgE y síntomas a camarón en una población que ha recibido AIT con extracto polimerizado para ácaros. MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron pacientes con rinitis alérgica sensibilizados a ácaros del polvo (Dermatophogides spp) con indicación de AIT para ácaros. Aquellos pacientes que no habían aún recibido AIT o llevaban menos de seis dosis, fueron incluidos como controles, y aquellos que llevaban más de 24 dosis de AIT, fueron incluidos como casos. Se evaluó la sensibilización a camarón mediante prueba cutánea con extracto completo de camarón y/o IgE específica a camarón. RESULTADOS: En total, 68 pacientes fueron incluidos; 47 casos y 21 controles. Al calcular el odds ratio de la sensibilización de acuerdo al tiempo con la inmunoterapia, observamos que no había diferencias entre el grupo de casos y controles (OR 0,76 95% IC 0,26 a 2,22 p 0,7 por técnica de MacNemar). Factores como el consumo o no de camarón y la frecuencia de consumo, no parecen estar relacionados con el desenlace. CONCLUSIÓN: A diferencia de lo reportado con extractos acuosos, observamos de AIT con extractos polimerizados para no es un factor de riesgo para la sensibilización a camarón. Es necesario reproducir estos resultados con un mayor tamaño de muestra que permita explorar otros factores.

Unraveling biotypes of the northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens s.l. (Diptera: Culicidae): molecular differentiation and morphometric analysis.

Geometric morphometrics was used to determine whether geographic isolation could explain differences in wing size and shape between and within continental (27°S to 41°S) and insular (Rapa Nui) populations of Culex pipiens s.s. Linnaeus and their biotypes (f. pipiens and f. molestus). Molecular protocols based on polymorphisms in the second intron of nuclear locus ace-2 (acetylcholinesterase-2) were used to differentiate Cx. pipiens s.s. from Cx. quinquefasciatus Say, and an assay based on polymorphisms in the flanking region of a microsatellite locus (CQ11) was used to identify biotypes. Culex pipiens f. molestus and hybrids shared larval habitats in all continental sites, while Cx. pipiens f. pipiens was found in 5 of the 10 sites. Only biotype molestus was found in Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Pipiens and molestus biotypes occur sympatrically in aboveground locations, and only molestus was found in the underground site (ME). Biotype molestus was dominant in rural locations and preferably anthropophilic. These results agree with the ecological descriptions previously reported for the biotypes of Cx. pipiens s.s. Procrustes ANOVA only showed differences in centroid size between biotypes in females and males and did not show significant differences in wing shape. However, we found significant differences among the geographic areas in the centroid size and wing shape of both females and males. Particularly, the population of Rapa Nui Island had shorter wings than the continental populations. The results highlight the effects of geographic and environmental processes on morphotypes in vector mosquitoes.

Local allergic rhinitis in children: identification and characterization in a specialty outpatient clinic.

Summary: Background. Local Allergic Rhinitis (LAR) is a phenotype defined by rhinitis symptoms with negative responses to systemic sensitization tests but with an exclusively nasal allergic inflammatory response. Data on the pediatric age group is scarce, and no Latin American data has been published so far. Methods. Nasal Allergen Challenge (NAC) was performed with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Blomia tropicalis in six- to 18-year-old patients diagnosed with rhinitis and no systemic sensitization. NAC was monitored using subjective parameters and acoustic rhinometry. The study aimed to identify LAR in child and adolescent subjects previously diagnosed with non-allergic rhinitis (NAR) in a Brazilian specialty outpatient clinic (Allergy and Immunology). Results. During the study period, we analyzed 758 skin prick tests (SPT). Of those, 517 (68.2%) were diagnosed with rhinitis. Among those, 18.4% (95/517) had a negative SPT, meeting the criteria for inclusion in the study. Twenty-five patients underwent NAC, and 40% (10/25) of them, previously considered to have NAR, had a positive test and were reclassified as having LAR. Based on the analyzed characteristics, clinically differentiating LAR from NAR was impossible. Conclusions. This study represents the first investigation of LAR in child and adolescent subjects in Latin America, contributing significantly to the understanding of its prevalence and characteristics in this geographic area. Among a subgroup of patients lacking systemic sensitization submitted to NAC, 40% (10/25) demonstrated a positive NAC with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Blomia tropicalis, warranting their reclassification to LAR. NAC with multiple allergens has been proven safe and viable in pediatric populations, affirming its critical role in the accurate diagnosis of LAR.

Tropical high altitude and severe asthma in adults: house dust mite sensitization and phenotypic distribution.

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of information on house dust mite (HDM) sensitization and phenotype distribution in patients with severe asthma (SA) living permanently at high-altitude (HA) in tropical regions, which may be different. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to characterize adults with SA in a tropical high altitude city (2,640 m): Bogotá, Colombia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This observational cross-sectional study included severe asthmatic outpatients (n = 129) referred to the ASMAIRE program of the Fundación Neumológica Colombiana in Bogotá (2,640 m). Clinical history, spirometry, total IgE, blood eosinophils, and skin prick test (SPT), including HDM allergens, were performed. Phenotype definitions: Allergic/atopic (AA): IgE ≥100 IU/mL and/or at least one positive SPT; eosinophilic (EOS): blood eosinophils ≥300 cells/µL; type 2-high: AA and/or EOS phenotype; type 2-low: non-AA/non-EOS phenotype (IgE <100 IU/mL, negative SPT, and blood eosinophils <300 cells/µL). RESULTS: A total of 129 adults with SA were included, 79.8% female. Phenotype distribution: AA: 61.2%; EOS: 37.2%; type 2-high: 72.1%; type 2-low: 27.9%. Among AA patients, HDM sensitization was present in 87% and 34.9% were non-eosinophilic. There was a significant overlap between the phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to non-tropical high-altitude regions, we found a high frequency of HDM sensitization in patients with AA phenotype living in a tropical high-altitude city. We also found a discrete lower frequency of EOS phenotype with no other significant differences in the phenotypic distribution compared to that described at low altitudes. We propose that tropical location may modify the effect of high altitude on HDM concentrations and allergenicity.

Visita domiciliar na primeira semana saúde integral, segundo enfermeiros da atenção primária / Home visit in the first week integral health, according to primary care nurses / Visita domiciliaria en la primera semana salud integral, según enfermeras de atención primaria

Objetivo: compreender a percepção e implementação da visita domiciliar na Primeira Semana Saúde Integral, segundo enfermeiros da Atenção Primária. Método: estudo qualitativo, realizado por entrevistas com cinco enfermeiras em Unidades de Saúde da Família no curimataú paraibano, entre agosto e dezembro de 2019. Os dados foram interpretados pela Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: percebeu-se a partir de duas categorias que, os enfermeiros reconhecem a Primeira Semana Saúde Integral como estratégia de integralidade na saúde ao binômio, utilizando unicamente a visita domiciliar como ação; distinguem os elementos necessários para a implementação desta conforme as diretrizes nacionais, todavia identificaram desafios, bem como estratégias para dirimi-los. Considerações finais: reforça-se a ideia da educação permanente para qualificação dos profissionais na Atenção Primária, bem como a inserção de um instrumento para a realização das visitas domiciliares, potencializando assim as ações de cuidado

Objective: to understand the perception and implementation of home visits in the First Integral Health Week, according to Primary Care nurses. Method: qualitative study, carried out with five nurses in Family Health Units in curimataú, Paraíba, between August and December 2019. Data were interpreted by Content Analysis. Results: it was noticed from two categories that the nurses recognize the First Integral Health Week as a strategy of integrality in health to the binomial, using only the home visit as an action; distinguish the elements necessary for the implementation of this according to the national guidelines, however they identified challenges, as well as strategies to solve them. Final considerations: the idea of continuing education for the qualification of professionals in Primary Care is reinforced, as well as the insertion of an instrument for carrying out home visits, thus enhancing care actions

Objetivos: comprender la percepción e implementación de la visita domiciliaria en la Primera Semana de Salud Integral, según los enfermeros de Atención Primaria. Método: estudio cualitativo, realizado con cinco enfermeros en Unidades de Salud de la Familia en Curimataú, Paraíba, entre agosto y diciembre de 2019. Los datos fueron interpretados por Análisis de Contenido. Resultados: se percibió a partir de dos categorías que los enfermeros reconocen la Primera Semana de Salud Integral como una estrategia de integralidad en salud al binomio, utilizando únicamente la visita domiciliaria como acción; distinguen los elementos necesarios para la implementación de este de acuerdo a los lineamientos nacionales, sin embargo identificaron desafíos, así como estrategias para solucionarlos. Consideraciones finales: se refuerza la idea de educación continua para la calificación de profesionales en la Atención Básica, así como la inserción de un instrumento para la realización de visitas domiciliarias, potenciando así las acciones de cuidado

Characteristics of house calls in Brazil: analysis of PMAQ-AB external evaluation cycles / Características da visita domiciliar no Brasil: análise de ciclos de avaliação externa do PMAQ-AB

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze characteristics of the home visit (HV) in Brazil, 2012 and 2017. Methods: Ecological study, with panel data whose units of analysis were the Primary Health Care teams in Brazil, participants of the 1st and 3rd cycles of the Program to Improve Access and Quality of Primary Care of the Unified Health System. Descriptive, inferential and spatial analyzes (alpha=5%) were performed. Results: There was an increase in the proportion of teams that carried out home visits at a frequency defined based on risk and vulnerability analysis and actively searched for people with respiratory symptoms and women with delayed and altered cytopathological examination. In the heat maps, the Northeast, Southeast and South regions had a higher concentration of teams that carried out the HV and carried out an active search. Conclusion: The maintenance and qualification of HVs must be a priority in Brazil, since there are few countries in the world with such capillarity of health services, reaching the homes of millions of people.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar características da visita domiciliar (VD) no Brasil em 2012 e 2017. Métodos: Estudo ecológico com dados em painel cujas unidades de análise foram as equipes de saúde da Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil, participantes do 1º e 3º ciclos do Programa de Melhoria do Acesso e Qualidade da Atenção Básica do Sistema Único de Saúde. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, inferenciais e espaciais (alpha=5%). Resultados: Houve aumento na proporção de equipes que realizavam visita domiciliar com periodicidade definida a partir da análise de risco e vulnerabilidade e na de busca ativa de pessoas com sintomáticos respiratórios e de mulheres com exame citopatológico atrasado e alterado. Nordeste, Sudeste e Sul foram as regiões com maior concentração de equipes que realizavam a VD e faziam busca ativa. Conclusão: A manutenção e qualificação das VD deve ser uma prioridade no Brasil, uma vez que poucos são os países no mundo com tamanha capilaridade dos serviços de saúde, alcançando os domicílios de milhões de pessoas.

Análise do estoque domiciliar de medicamentos de usuários da Estratégia Saúde da Família, em Rondonópolis - MT, Brasil / Analysis of the home medication stock of users of the Family Health Strategy in Rondonópolis - MT, Brazil

É comum o armazenamento de medicamentos pelas famílias brasileiras, seja por uso contínuo, por sobras de um tratamento, pelo abandono ou para a automedicação. Dessa maneira o presente estudo objetiva analisar o estoque domiciliar de medicamentos da população adstrita na Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) de Rondonópolis-MT de fevereiro a junho de 2022, visando analisar as condições de armazenamento, realizar o levantamento de todos os fármacos dos domicílios em suas diferentes formas farmacêuticas e identificar o perfil de uso dos medicamentos conforme suas indicações terapêuticas. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, de caráter exploratório, e de base descritiva. Foi aplicado um questionário por domicílio durante visita domiciliar. Sobre a amostra estudada, 83,9% (n=281) dos entrevistados era do sexo feminino, faixa etária com predomínio de pessoas acima de 40 anos, com um nível de escolaridade baixo e renda familiar mais baixa. Dos participantes da pesquisa, 97,6% possuíam farmácia caseira. Esses medicamentos eram armazenados principalmente na cozinha, no quarto e na sala. As classes terapêuticas mais numerosas foram: analgésicos (14,2%), AINEs (8,9%) e anti-hipertensivos (7,7%). A quantidade de medicamentos armazenados foi significativamente maior entre praticantes de automedicação e participantes sem conhecimento adequado sobre o uso dos medicamentos, revelando a necessidade do farmacêutico como promotor de ações de educação em saúde sobre uso racional de medicamentos.

It is common for Brazilian families to store medications, whether for continuous use, leftover from treatment, due to abandonment, or for self-medication. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the home drug storage of the population attached to the Family Health Strategy (FHS) in Rondonópolis-MT from February to June 2022, to assess storage conditions, conduct a survey of all pharmaceuticals in the households in their different pharmaceutical forms, and identify the medication use profile according to their therapeutic indications. This was a cross-sectional, exploratory, descriptive-based study. A questionnaire was administered to each household during home visits. Regarding the study sample, 83.9% (n=281) of the respondents were female, predominantly over 40 years old, with a low level of education and lower family income. Of the participants, 97.6% had home pharmacies. These medications were primarily stored in kitchens, bedrooms, and living rooms. The most numerous therapeutic classes were analgesics (14.2%), NSAIDs (8.9%), and antihypertensive drugs (7.7%). The quantity of stored medications was significantly higher among those practicing self-medication and participants with inadequate knowledge about medication use, revealing the need for pharmacists as promoters of health education actions on rational drug use.

Infection with Trypanosoma Cruzi Chagas and Characterization of Human Habitats of Triatoma Picturata (Usinger) in Western Mexico.

Chagas disease is one of the most important vector-borne diseases in Latin America. Triatoma picturata (Usinger), distributed in western Mexico, is one of the most important vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas. Knowing the type and materials used for building homes could lead to improved methods for controlling triatomines by focusing efforts on controlling every species of triatomine in its specific microhabitat. Houses in three studied localities of western Mexico that harbored T. picturata were characterized, as well as two entomological indices. Infestation Index values varied from 10.8% to 51.9% in the three localities, whereas Natural Infection Index values varied from 18.1% to 35.2%. Characteristics of houses invaded by T. picturata also varied. In Juan Gil Preciado, with the highest Entomological Index values, most houses were built of adobe walls with a roof of clay tiles and a dirt floor, and included the presence of domestic animals. Our data indicate that the potential risk of infection with T. cruzi differs markedly for inhabitants of the three studied localities, which demonstrates the importance of studying local populations of triatomines. Our study should contribute to decision-making regarding triatomine control efforts by providing profiles of houses that are more susceptible to triatomine invasion.

Abundance of Non-Native Birds in the City: Spatial Variation and Relationship with Socioeconomics in a South American City.

Cities commonly support a high abundance of non-native species that can affect both wildlife and human health; however, their distribution across the urban environment and their relationship with socioeconomics are not well documented. Here, we map the abundance of three non-native birds in a Latin American city-domestic pigeon (Columba livia f. domestica), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), and monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus)-and investigate the effect of socioeconomics on their abundance. We found that C. livia f. domestica exhibited a random distribution of abundance across the city but reached its greatest abundance in low-income areas. P. domesticus exhibited an aggregated distribution of abundance, being most abundant in the southern and western areas of the city and in low-income areas. M. monachus exhibited an aggregated distribution of abundance, being most abundant in the northeastern part of the city and reaching its greatest abundance in high-income areas. Low-income areas likely provide high abundance of food, shelter, and nesting sites for both C. livia f. domestica and P. domesticus, whereas high income areas have greater tree cover and larger trees in which M. monachus can build communal nests. Our study finds that the abundance of non-native birds varies across the city and between socioeconomic groups; therefore, targeted management is needed in different city zones to limit negative effects on native species and prevent zoonotic diseases.

Atendimento domiciliar do enfermeiro da Estratégia Saúde da Família na comunidade quilombola Sacopã: relato de experiência / Family Health Strategy nurse home care in the Sacopã quilombola community: experience report / Atención domiciliaria de la enfermería en la Estrategia de Salud Familiar en la comunidad quilombola Sacopã: informe de experiencia

A comunidade quilombola de Sacopã, cuja existência remonta a mais de 100 anos, está localizada na zona sul do Rio de Janeiro, na Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, e continua preservando cultura, ancestralidade e tradições do povo negro até os dias atuais. Neste estudo, tem-se como objetivo relatar a experiência das consultas do enfermeiro da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) realizadas na comunidade quilombola Sacopã. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo relato de experiência, com abordagem qualitativa. As visitas domiciliares ocorreram nos dias 29 de setembro de 2021, no turno da tarde, e 6 de outubro de 2021, nos turnos da manhã e da tarde. O processo de enfermagem foi aplicado, incluindo triagem com aferição da pressão arterial e medição da glicemia capilar, renovação das prescrições de medicamentos, teste de sensibilidade plantar, agendamento de exames de colpocitologia e mamografias, avaliação dos registros de vacinação infantil, aconselhamento e educação em saúde. Essas ações visam atender às demandas da população quilombola e reparar os atrasos nas visitas domiciliares causados pela pandemia de covid-19. Vale ressaltar que realizar consultas de enfermagem no formato de atendimento domiciliar proporciona conforto, fortalece o vínculo entre a unidade de saúde e a comunidade, possibilita uma imersão na realidade local, aproxima os profissionais das famílias e reduz os custos de deslocamento, garantindo assim um cuidado holístico e abrangente aos usuários.

The Sacopã quilombola community, which has existed for over 100 years, is in the south of Rio de Janeiro, in Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, and continues to preserve culture, ancestry, and traditions of the black people to this day. This study aims to report the experience of consultations with the Family Health Strategy (FHS) nurse held in the Sacopã quilombola community. It is an experience report study with a qualitative approach. The home visits were conducted on September 29, 2021, in the afternoon shift, and on October 6, 2021, in the morning and afternoon shifts. The nursing process was applied, including screening with blood pressure and capillary blood glucose measurements, renewal of the drug prescriptions, plantar sensitivity tests, scheduling of Pap smears and mammograms, evaluation of children's vaccination records, counseling, and health education. These actions aim to meet the demands of the quilombola population and address the delays in home visits that occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Note that conducting nursing consultations in a home care format provides comfort, strengthens the link between the health unit and the community, allows immersion in the local reality, brings professionals closer to families, and reduces travel costs, thus ensuring holistic and comprehensive care for users.

La comunidad quilombola de Sacopã que se remonta a más de cien años está ubicada en la zona sur de Río de Janeiro, en la Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, y viene preservando la cultura, ancestralidad y tradiciones del pueblo negro hasta la actualidad. Este estudio tuvo por objetivo informar la experiencia de consultas con la enfermería de la Estrategia de Salud Familiar (ESF) realizadas en la comunidad quilombola de Sacopã. Se trata de un estudio de tipo informe de experiencia, con enfoque cualitativo. Las visitas domiciliarias tuvieron lugar el 29 de septiembre de 2021, por la tarde, y el 6 de octubre de 2021, por la mañana y tarde. Se aplicó el proceso de enfermería, incluyendo el triaje con medición de la presión arterial y de la glucemia capilar, renovación de prescripciones de medicamentos, prueba de sensibilidad plantar, programación de exámenes de citología vaginal y mamografías, evaluación de los registros de vacunación infantil, asesoramiento y educación en salud. El objetivo de estas acciones fue atender las demandas de la población quilombola y compensar los retrasos en las visitas domiciliarias debido a la pandemia de la covid-19. Es importante destacar que la realización de las consultas de enfermería en atención domiciliaria proporciona comodidad, fortalece el vínculo entre la unidad de salud y la comunidad, permite una inmersión en la realidad local, acerca a los profesionales a las familias y reduce los costos de desplazamiento, garantizando así una atención holística y completa a los usuarios.

A highly sensitive nanobody-based immunoassay detecting SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein using all-recombinant reagents.

Antigen tests have been crucial for managing the COVID-19 pandemic by identifying individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2. This remains true even after immunity has been widely attained through natural infection and vaccination, since it only provides moderate protection against transmission and is highly permeable to the emergence of new virus variants. For this reason, the widespread availability of diagnostic methods is essential for health systems to manage outbreaks effectively. In this work, we generated nanobodies to the virus nucleocapsid protein (NP) and after an affinity-guided selection identified a nanobody pair that allowed the detection of NP at sub-ng/mL levels in a colorimetric two-site ELISA, demonstrating high diagnostic value with clinical samples. We further modified the assay by using a nanobody-NanoLuc luciferase chimeric tracer, resulting in increased sensitivity (detection limit = 61 pg/mL) and remarkable improvement in diagnostic performance. The luminescent assay was finally evaluated using 115 nasopharyngeal swab samples. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed a sensitivity of 78.7% (95% confidence interval: 64.3%-89.3%) and specificity of 100.0% (95% confidence interval: 94.7%-100.0%). The test allows the parallel analysis of a large number of untreated samples, and fulfills our goal of producing a recombinant reagent-based test that can be reproduced at low cost by other laboratories with recombinant expression capabilities, aiding to build diagnostic capacity.