Superovulating cattle with corifollitropin-alpha, a long-acting recombinant human FSH (rhFSH): Dose-response, half-life, effects on the ovaries, and embryo outcomes.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the superestimulatory and superovulatory responses of cattle treated with corifollitropin-alpha, a long-acting human recombinant FSH (rhFSH). In the first and second experiments, we used Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers previously submitted to follicular wave suppression by active immunization against GnRH. In Experiment 1 (a dose-response study), heifers (n = 20) were randomly allocated into five groups, which received placebo (saline) or a single sc dose of 7.5, 15.0, 22.5 or 30.0 µg rhFSH. The heifers were subjected to daily ovarian scan and blood sampling during 11 days. We observed group, time, and group x time effects (P<0.0001) for both average follicle size and circulating FSH concentrations, with a strong correlation (R = 0.82, P<0.0001) between the area under curve (AUC) for both parameters. The peak concentration of FSH 24h after treatment and average follicle size at all timepoints, however, were similar (P>0.05) between groups 22.5 and 30.0 µg. In Experiment 2, heifers (n = 18) were allocated into three groups, which received (0h) either placebo (control), 25 µg rhFSH or 130 mg pFSH (Folltropin). There was no difference (P>0.05) in average follicle size at any moment, as well as in intrafollicular E2 at 120h or in plasma P4 seven days later between groups rhFSH and pFSH. In Experiment 3, cycling Nelore heifers (n = 20) were subjected to a wave synchronization protocol and superovulated (day 0) using a standard pFSH protocol (120 mg split in eight decreasing im doses) or with a single sc injection of 20 µg rhFSH. The number of follicles >7 mm on day 4 did not differ (P=0.4370). Heifers receiving rhFSH had greater average follicle size on day 4 (P=0.0005), ovulation rate (P<0.0001), and number of CL (P=0.0155), as well as a trend towards a greater number of ova (P=0.07) and viable embryos (P=0.0590). In Experiment 4, superovulation was induced with a single sc injection of 25 µg rhFSH in Girolando and Nelore cows and heifers (n = 20). None of the embryo yield endpoints differed between the two breeds (P>0.05). In conclusion, cattle superstimulation and superovulation can be successfully induced with a single dose of a long-acting rhFSH (corifollitropin-alpha).

Structural and thermodynamic characterization of a highly amyloidogenic dimer of transthyretin involved in a severe cardiomyopathy.

Transthyretin (TTR) is a homotetrameric protein involved in the transport of thyroxine. More than 150 different mutations have been described in the TTR gene, several of them associated with familial amyloid cardiomyopathy (FAC). Recently, our group described a new variant of TTR in Brazil, namely A39D-TTR, which causes a severe cardiac condition. Position 39 is in the AB loop, a region of the protein that is located within the thyroxine-binding channels and is involved in tetramer formation. In the present study we solved the structure and characterize the thermodynamic stability of this new variant of TTR using urea and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP). Interestingly, during the process of purification, A39D-TTR turned out to be a dimer and not a tetramer, a variation that might be explained by the close contact of the four aspartic acids at position 39, where they face each other inside the thyroxine channel. In the presence of sub-denaturing concentrations of urea, bis-ANS binding and dynamic light scattering revealed A39D-TTR in the form of a molten-globule dimer. Co-expression of A39D and WT isoforms in the same bacterial cell did not produce heterodimers or heterotetramers, suggesting that somehow a negative charge at the AB loop precludes tetramer formation. A39D-TTR proved to be highly amyloidogenic, even at mildly acidic pH values where WT-TTR does not aggregate. Interestingly, despite being a dimer, aggregation of A39D-TTR was inhibited by diclofenac, which binds to the thyroxine channel in the tetramer, suggesting the existence of other pockets in A39D-TTR able to accommodate this molecule.

Accuracy of infrared thermography evaluation in burn wound healing: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Accurate assessment of burn depth and burn wound healing potential is essential to determine early treatments. Infrared thermography (IRT) is a non-invasive and objective tool to do this. This systematic review evaluated the accuracy of IRT to determine burn wound healing potential. METHOD: This systematic review and meta-analysis used MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PEDro, DiTA and CENTRAL databases. IRT data were extracted from primary studies and categorised into four cells (i.e., true positives, false positives, true negatives and false negatives). Subgroup analysis was performed according to methods used to capture thermal images. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 2727 publications; however, 15 articles were selected for review and 11 for meta-analysis. In our meta-analysis, the accuracy of IRT was 84.8% (63% sensitivity and 81.9% specificity). CONCLUSION: IRT is a moderately accurate tool to identify burn depth and healing potential. Thus, IRT should be used carefully for evaluating burn wounds.

Early Childhood Caries and Its Consequences Impact Sleep in Preschool Children.

Purpose: To assess the impact of early childhood caries (ECC) and its clinical conse- quences on preschool children's sleep, as reported by caregivers. Methods: A representative cross-sectional study was carried out with preschoolers aged four to six years in Brazil. Caregivers responded to the Brazilian version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale and a specific question from this questionnaire was used to determine sleep-related quality of life: "Has your child had trouble sleeping because of dental problems or dental treatments?" Additionally, a self-administered questionnaire with socioeconomic questions was used. Clinical examinations were performed by two calibrated dentists to diagnose dental caries (International Caries Detection and Assessment System -epi) and its clinical consequences (pulpal involvement, tissue ulceration, fistula and abscesses [pufa] index). Adjusted and unadjusted Poisson regression was used for data analysis (P<0.05). Results: The sample consisted of 533 preschoolers, with 259 girls (51.4 percent) (n=259). The mean age of preschoolers was 4.78±0.6 (standard deviation) years. One-third (n=176) exhibited extensive carious lesions, and 14.1 percent (n=75) had clinical consequences of ECC. Conclusion: Children with clinical consequences of ECC were approximately 3.04 times more likely to have difficulty sleeping than children without them (95 percent confidence interval=1.75 to 5.25). The clinical consequences of ECC were significantly associated with difficulty sleeping among preschool children.

Transcriptome of bone marrow-Derived stem cells reveals new inflammatory mediators related to increased survival in patients with multiple myeloma.

Although multiple myeloma (MM) is a neoplasm that leads affected individuals to death, little is known about why some patients survive much longer than others. In this context, we investigated the transcriptomic profile of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells obtained from MM patients and compared the clinical outcomes of death and survival six months after bone marrow transplantation. The leukapheresis products of 39 patients with MM eligible for autologous transplantation were collected and analyzed. After extraction, the RNA was analyzed using the GeneChip Human Exon 1.0 Array method. The transcriptome profile was analyzed in silico, and the differentially expressed signaling pathways of interest were validated. The results showed a difference in the expression of inflammation-related genes, immune response processes, and the oxidative stress pathway. The in silico study also pointed out the involvement of the NFκB transcription factor in the possible modulation of these genes. We chose to validate molecules participating in these processes, including the cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, and TGF-ß1; in addition, we measured the levels of oxidative stress mediators (pro-oxidant profile and the total antioxidant capacity). TNF-α levels were significantly reduced in patients who died and were over 50 years old at diagnosis, as well as in patients with plasmacytoma. Increased TNF-α was detected in patients with very high levels of ß2-microglobulin. IFN-γ reduction was observed in patients with a complete response to treatment compared to those with a very good response. Patients with plasmacytoma who died also had an increased pro-oxidant profile. These data show the profile of inflammatory response markers that are altered in patients with MM who die quickly and serve as a basis for the development of future studies of markers to predict better survival in this disease.

Resurgence of human respiratory syncytial virus during COVID-19 pandemic in Southern Brazil.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an important cause of respiratory infection in humans. Severe cases are common in children ≤2 years old, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly. In 2020, RSV infection reduced in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southern Brazil; however, in 2021 resurgence of RSV was observed. This study analyzed epidemiological and genetic features of RSV infection cases reported in 2021 in RS. Nasopharyngeal samples collected from individuals with respiratory infection negative for SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A and B viruses were assessed for the presence of RSV by real time RT-qPCR. RSV-A and RSV-B genomic sequencing and phylogenetic reconstructions were performed for genotyping and clade characterization. Among 21,035 respiratory samples analyzed, 2,947 were positive for RSV, 947 of which were hospitalized patients. Positive cases were detected year-round, with the highest number in June-July (winter). Children <1 year comprised 56.28% (n = 533) of the hospitalized patients infected with RSV, whereas 14.46% (n = 137) were individuals >60 years. Of a total of 361 deaths, 14.68% (n = 53) were RSV positive, mostly patients >60 years old (73.58%, n = 39). Chronic kidney disease, cardiopathy, Down syndrome and neurological diseases were associated with RSV infection. RSV-A was identified in 58.5% (n = 117/200) of the patients, and RSV-B in 41.5% (n = 83/200). Of 95 RSV genomes recovered from SARI cases, 66 were RSV-A GA.2.3.5 genotype, while 29 were RSV-B GB.5.0.5a genotype. This study provides epidemiological and molecular data on RSV cases in RS during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights that investigation of different respiratory viruses is essential for decision-making and disease prevention and control measures.

Machine learning in predicting severe acute respiratory infection outbreaks.

Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) outbreaks occur annually, with seasonal peaks varying among geographic regions. Case notification is important to prepare healthcare networks for patient attendance and hospitalization. Thus, health managers need adequate resource planning tools for SARI seasons. This study aims to predict SARI outbreaks based on models generated with machine learning using SARI hospitalization notification data. In this study, data from the reporting of SARI hospitalization cases in Brazil from 2013 to 2020 were used, excluding SARI cases caused by COVID-19. These data were prepared to feed a neural network configured to generate predictive models for time series. The neural network was implemented with a pipeline tool. Models were generated for the five Brazilian regions and validated for different years of SARI outbreaks. By using neural networks, it was possible to generate predictive models for SARI peaks, volume of cases per season, and for the beginning of the pre-epidemic period, with good weekly incidence correlation (R2 = 0.97; 95%CI: 0.95-0.98, for the 2019 season in the Southeastern Brazil). The predictive models achieved a good prediction of the volume of reported cases of SARI; accordingly, 9,936 cases were observed in 2019 in Southern Brazil, and the prediction made by the models showed a median of 9,405 (95%CI: 9,105-9,738). The identification of the period of occurrence of a SARI outbreak is possible using predictive models generated with neural networks and algorithms that employ time series.

Machine learning in predicting severe acute respiratory infection outbreaks / Aprendizado de máquina na previsão de surtos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave / Aprendizaje automático en la predicción de brotes de síndrome respiratorio agudo grave

Abstract: Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) outbreaks occur annually, with seasonal peaks varying among geographic regions. Case notification is important to prepare healthcare networks for patient attendance and hospitalization. Thus, health managers need adequate resource planning tools for SARI seasons. This study aims to predict SARI outbreaks based on models generated with machine learning using SARI hospitalization notification data. In this study, data from the reporting of SARI hospitalization cases in Brazil from 2013 to 2020 were used, excluding SARI cases caused by COVID-19. These data were prepared to feed a neural network configured to generate predictive models for time series. The neural network was implemented with a pipeline tool. Models were generated for the five Brazilian regions and validated for different years of SARI outbreaks. By using neural networks, it was possible to generate predictive models for SARI peaks, volume of cases per season, and for the beginning of the pre-epidemic period, with good weekly incidence correlation (R2 = 0.97; 95%CI: 0.95-0.98, for the 2019 season in the Southeastern Brazil). The predictive models achieved a good prediction of the volume of reported cases of SARI; accordingly, 9,936 cases were observed in 2019 in Southern Brazil, and the prediction made by the models showed a median of 9,405 (95%CI: 9,105-9,738). The identification of the period of occurrence of a SARI outbreak is possible using predictive models generated with neural networks and algorithms that employ time series.

Resumo: Surtos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) ocorrem anualmente, com picos sazonais variando entre regiões geográficas. A notificação dos casos é importante para preparar as redes de atenção à saúde para o atendimento e internação dos pacientes. Portanto, os gestores de saúde precisam ter ferramentas adequadas de planejamento de recursos para as temporadas de SRAG. Este estudo tem como objetivo prever surtos de SRAG com base em modelos gerados com aprendizado de máquina usando dados de internação por SRAG. Foram incluídos dados sobre casos de hospitalização por SRAG no Brasil de 2013 a 2020, excluindo os casos causados pela COVID-19. Estes dados foram preparados para alimentar uma rede neural configurada para gerar modelos preditivos para séries temporais. A rede neural foi implementada com uma ferramenta de pipeline. Os modelos foram gerados para as cinco regiões brasileiras e validados para diferentes anos de surtos de SRAG. Com o uso de redes neurais, foi possível gerar modelos preditivos para picos de SRAG, volume de casos por temporada e para o início do período pré-epidêmico, com boa correlação de incidência semanal (R2 = 0,97; IC95%: 0,95-0,98, para a temporada de 2019 na Região Sudeste). Os modelos preditivos obtiveram uma boa previsão do volume de casos notificados de SRAG; dessa forma, foram observados 9.936 casos em 2019 na Região Sul, e a previsão feita pelos modelos mostrou uma mediana de 9.405 (IC95%: 9.105-9.738). A identificação do período de ocorrência de um surto de SRAG é possível por meio de modelos preditivos gerados com o uso de redes neurais e algoritmos que aplicam séries temporais.

Resumen: Brotes de síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SRAG) ocurren todos los años, con picos estacionales que varían entre regiones geográficas. La notificación de los casos es importante para preparar las redes de atención a la salud para el cuidado y hospitalización de los pacientes. Por lo tanto, los gestores de salud deben tener herramientas adecuadas de planificación de recursos para las temporadas de SRAG. Este estudio tiene el objetivo de predecir brotes de SRAG con base en modelos generados con aprendizaje automático utilizando datos de hospitalización por SRAG. Se incluyeron datos sobre casos de hospitalización por SRAG en Brasil desde 2013 hasta 2020, salvo los casos causados por la COVID-19. Se prepararon estos datos para alimentar una red neural configurada para generar modelos predictivos para series temporales. Se implementó la red neural con una herramienta de canalización. Se generaron los modelos para las cinco regiones brasileñas y se validaron para diferentes años de brotes de SRAG. Con el uso de redes neurales, se pudo generar modelos predictivos para los picos de SRAG, el volumen de casos por temporada y para el inicio del periodo pre-epidémico, con una buena correlación de incidencia semanal (R2 = 0,97; IC95%: 0,95-0,98, para la temporada de 2019 en la Región Sudeste). Los modelos predictivos tuvieron una buena predicción del volumen de casos notificados de SRAG; así, se observaron 9.936 casos en 2019 en la Región Sur, y la predicción de los modelos mostró una mediana de 9.405 (IC95%: 9.105-9.738). La identificación del periodo de ocurrencia de un brote de SRAG es posible a través de modelos predictivos generados con el uso de redes neurales y algoritmos que aplican series temporales.

Introduction, Dispersal, and Predominance of SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: A Retrospective Analysis.

Mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome can alter the virus' fitness, leading to the emergence of variants of concern (VOC). In Brazil, the Gamma variant dominated the pandemic in the first half of 2021, and from June onwards, the first cases of Delta infection were documented. Here, we investigate the introduction and dispersal of the Delta variant in the RS state by sequencing 1077 SARS-CoV-2-positive samples from June to October 2021. Of these samples, 34.7% were identified as Gamma and 65.3% as Delta. Notably, 99.2% of Delta sequences were clustered within the 21J lineage, forming a significant Brazilian clade. The estimated clock rate was 5.97 × 10-4 substitutions per site per year. The Delta variant was first reported on 17 June in the Vinhedos Basalto microregion and rapidly spread, accounting for over 70% of cases within nine weeks. Despite this, the number of cases and deaths remained stable, possibly due to vaccination, prior infections, and the continued mandatory mask use. In conclusion, our study provides insights into the Delta variant circulating in the RS state, highlighting the importance of genomic surveillance for monitoring viral evolution, even when the impact of new variants may be less severe in a given region.

Variants of IFNL4 Gene in Amazonian and Northern Brazilian Populations.

Since the discovery of the polymorphic nature of the IFNL4 gene, its variants have been investigated and associated with several viral diseases, with an emphasis on hepatitis C. However, the impacts of these variants on mixed-race and native populations in the northern region of Brazil are scarce. We investigated three variants of the IFNL4 gene in populations from this location, which were among the 14 most frequent variants in worldwide populations, and compared the frequencies obtained to populational data from the 1000 Genomes Project, gnomAD and ABraOM databases. Our results demonstrate that mixed-race and native populations from the northern region of Brazil present frequencies like those of European and Asian groups for the rs74597329 and rs11322783 variants, and like all populations presented for the rs4803221 variant. These data reinforce the role of world populations in shaping the genetic profile of Brazilian populations, indicate patterns of illness according to the expressed genotype, and infer an individual predisposition to certain diseases.

Early Introduction of Total Sugar Foods and Early Childhood Caries.

Purpose: To evaluate the association between the introduction of total sugar foods (TSF) in the first six months of age and the prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) and its consequences for dental pulp in preschool children. Methods: A representative cross-sectional study was conducted with 533 preschool children (four to six years old) in Ribeirão das Neves, Brazil. The decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) index was used for determining ECC. The visible pulp, oral mucosa ulceration due to root fragments, fistula, and abscess (pufa) index was used for the pulp consequences of dental caries. Parents/caregivers answered a questionnaire addressing sociodemographic characteristics and the children's diet. Statistical analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression (P<0.05). Results: The multiple logistic regression model adjusted for family income and breastfeeding showed that preschool children who were introduced to TSF prior to six months of age were 1.58 times more likely to have ECC (95 percent confidence interval equals 1.09 to 2.30). The multiple logistic regression model, adjusted for family income, breastfeeding, and brushing behaviors, showed that preschool children who were introduced to TSF prior to six months of age were 2.30 times more likely to have pulp consequences (95 percent confidence interval equals 1.35 to 3.91). Conclusion: The early introduction TSF is associated with a higher prevalence of early childhood caries and pulp consequences in preschool children. The negative effects on oral health may be greater when the introduction of TSF occurs prior to six months of age.

Influence of the Dose and Frequency of Administration of Tramadol on Analgesia, Hematological, Biochemical Parameters, and Oxidative Status of Cats Undergoing Ovariohysterectomy.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the repeated administration of tramadol subcutaneously on postoperative analgesia, liver, kidneys, and oxidative status in the postoperative period of cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Thirty-seven cats were randomly assigned to 5 groups, according to the postoperative analgesic treatment: NaCl 0.9%, GC; tramadol at 2 mg/kg, T2B (q12h) and T2T (q8h); or 4 mg/kg, T4B (q12h) and T4T (q8h). Oxidative status was assessed at baseline, 12 hours and 24 hours after the final administration of tramadol by the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and lipoperoxidation (MDA). Total blood count, serum biochemistry and urinalysis were compared between baseline and 12 hours posttramadol. Postoperative pain was evaluated by applying the Glasgow Feline Composite Measure Pain Scale at baseline, 3 (T3), 6 (T6), 8 (T8), 12 (T12), 24 (T24) e 36 (T36) hours after extubation. No side effects were observed. Tramadol increased SOD activity while CAT varied among groups in all time points but not over time. MDA levels increased from baseline to 12 hours in all groups but T4T. MPO activity decreased from baseline to 24 hours in some groups, including GC. Creatinine and phosphatase alkaline decreased in T2T, T4B, and T4T at 12 hours. Higher pain scores were observed from T3 to T8, except for GC. Rescue analgesia was administered only at T3. No difference in pain scores was observed from T8 onwards. Based on the findings, it is suggested that tramadol at 2 mg/kg every 8 hours is recommended for postoperative analgesia of cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

DODAB vesicles containing lysophosphatidylcholines: The relevance of acyl chain saturation on the membrane structure and thermal properties.

The saturated LPC18:0 and unsaturated LPC18:1 lysophosphatidylcholines have important roles in inflammation and immunity and are interesting targets for immunotherapy. The synthetic cationic lipid DODAB has been successfully employed in delivery systems, and would be a suitable carrier for those lysophosphatidylcholines. Here, assemblies of DODAB and LPC18:0 or LPC18:1 were characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. LPC18:0 increased the DODAB gel-fluid transition enthalpy and rigidified both phases. In contrast, LPC18:1 caused a decrease in the DODAB gel-fluid transition temperature and cooperativity, associated with two populations with distinct rigidities in the gel phase. In the fluid phase, LPC18:1 increased the surface order but, differently from LPC18:0, did not affect viscosity at the membrane core. The impact of the different acyl chains of LPC18:0 and 18:1 on structure and thermotropic behavior should be considered when developing applications using mixed DODAB membranes.

Evaluation of the effects of the recommended oral dose of diflubenzuron on bovine sperm and oocyte quality using CASA and OPU-IVEP.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate potential effects of diflubenzuron on the production and quality of gametes, and on in vitro embryo production (IVEP) outcomes, in cattle. Methods: Two experiments were performed, the first to evaluate effects on semen, and the second on cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) and on IVEP. Nelore (Bos taurus indicus) bulls (n = 14) or heifers (n = 16) were allocated into control (CG) or treatment (DIF) groups. All groups received a mineral mix supplement added (DIF) or not (CG) with diflubenzuron (30 mg/head/day), during 8 weeks. Animals were weighed and blood samples were collected throughout the experimental period. Every other week, bulls were subjected to semen collection and heifers to transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration sessions. Semen underwent physical and morphological evaluation, and samples were stored for further computer-assisted sperm analysis. The COC recovered were evaluated according to morphology and those classified as viable were sent to an IVEP laboratory. Results: Diflubenzuron had no effect (P > 0.05) on average body weight or in any blood hematological or biochemical endpoints, regardless of gender. In experiment 1, there was no difference (P > 0.05) between DIF and CG groups for sperm concentration, morphology, or kinetics. In experiment 2, there was also no effect of diflubenzuron on the number of total, viable, or grade I oocytes, as well as on cleavage or blastocyst rates (P > 0.05). Discussion: In summary, the oral administration of diflubenzuron, within the recommended dose, has no short-term negative effects on sperm production and quality or on oocyte yield and developmental potential in vitro, in cattle.

Impact of Early Childhood Caries and Parental Oral Health Literacy on the Use of Oral Health Care Services by Children. Caries, Health Literacy and Health Care / Impacto de la Caries de la Primera Infancia y la Alfabetización en Salud Bucal de los Padres en el Uso de los Servicios de Atención de la Salud Oral por Parte de los Niños Caries, Alfabetización en Salud y Cuidado de la Salud

The objective of this study was to verify the impact of early childhood caries (ECC) and parental oral health literacy (OHL) on the use of oral health care services by preschool children. A population-based study was conducted with 449 dyads of preschool children aged 4-6 years and their parents/caregivers in the city of Ribeirão das Neves, Brazil. Two examiners performed the diagnosis of ECC using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS- Epi). The Brazilian version of the Hong Kong Oral Health Literacy Assessment Task for Pediatric Dentistry was administered to measure parents' OHL. Parents/caregivers answered the question "When was your child's last visit to the dentist?" to measure the use of oral health care services by the preschool children. The multiple logistic regression (p<0.05) revealed that children with presence of cavitated caries lesions were 1.82-fold more likely to use oral health care services (OR=1.82; 95%CI: 1.23-2.70) compared to those with absence of cavitated caries lesions. Children whose parents/caregivers had lower OHL were 34 % less likely to use oral health care services compared to those whose parents had higher OHL (OR=0.66; 95%CI: 0.45-0.99). Preschool children Dental services are used more by preschool children with presence of cavitated caries lesions and whose parents/caregivers have higher scores of OHL.

El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar el impacto de la caries de la primera infancia (CPI) y la alfabetización en salud oral de los padres (ASB) en el uso de los servicios de salud oral por parte de los niños en edad preescolar. Se realizó un estudio de base poblacional con 449 díadas de preescolares de 4 a 6 años y sus padres/cuidadores en la ciudad de Ribeirão das Neves, Brasil. Dos examinadores realizaron el diagnóstico de CPI utilizando el Sistema Internacional de Evaluación y Detección de Caries (ICDAS-Epi). Se administró la versión brasileña de Hong Kong Oral Health Literacy Assessment Task for Pediatric Dentistry para medir la ASB de los padres. Los padres/cuidadores respondieron la pregunta "¿Cuándo fue la última visita de su hijo al dentista?" medir la utilización de los servicios de salud oral por parte de los preescolares. La regresión logística múltiple (p<0,05) reveló que los niños con presencia de lesiones de caries cavitadas tenían 1,82 veces más probabilidades de utilizar los servicios de salud oral (OR=1,82; IC95%: 1,23-2,70) en comparación con aquellos con ausencia de lesiones de caries cavitadas. Los niños cuyos padres/cuidadores tenían un ASB más bajo tenían un 34 % menos de probabilidades de utilizar los servicios de atención de la salud bucodental en comparación con aquellos cuyos padres tenían un ASB más alto (OR = 0,66; IC del 95%: 0,45-0,99). Los servicios dentales para niños en edad preescolar son utilizados con mayor frecuencia por niños preescolares con presencia de lesiones cariosas cavitadas y cuyos padres/cuidadores tienen puntuaciones más altas de ASB.

Psychosocial associated factors of early childhood caries and oral health-related quality of life: Structural equation model approach.

OBJECTIVE: To identify a structural model for the identification of psychosocial associated factors of early childhood caries (ECC) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in preschool children and their families. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 533 preschool children from 4 to 6 years-old public and private preschools, from Ribeirão das Neves, MG. Parents/caregivers self-completed the Brazilian versions of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (B-ECOHIS) and Resilience Scale as well as a structured questionnaire addressing socioeconomic status and child's oral health behavior. Two dentists who had undergone training and calibration exercises for ICDAS­epi and pufa index (Kappa≥0.95) performed the examinations for ECC. Stages of ECC were classified as free of visible carious lesion, initial caries, moderate caries, extensive caries without pulp consequences and extensive caries with pulp consequences. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling, using Mplus version 8.6. RESULTS: Lower socioeconomic status (b=-0.250; p<0.001) and higher frequency of free sugar consumption (b = 0.122; p = 0.033) were directly associated with a more severe stage of ECC. Lower parental resilience had an indirect impact on more severe stage of ECC which was mediated by the variable 'frequency of free sugar consumption' (b=-0.089; p = 0.048). ECC was associated with lower child's OHRQoL (b = 0.587; p<0.001) and lower family's OHRQoL (b = 0.506; p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Structural modeling revealed that the severity of ECC negatively impacted the OHRQoL of preschoolers and their families. The main associated factors of the severity of ECC were lower socioeconomic status, higher frequency of free sugar consumption and lower parental resilience. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: T The findings indicate that psychosocial and behavior variables can be associated with the severity of ECC, and ECC can be associated with negative impact on wellbeing and ability to perform daily activities of preschoolers and their families.

Effects of hyperprotein diet on anxiety, haemodynamics and morphofunctional aspects of the heart of Wistar rats.

NEW FINDINGS: What is the central question of this study? The consumption of a high-protein diet has been associated with an anxiogenic factor that can influence anxiety and possible cardiovascular changes: does the consumption of a high-protein diet interfere with anxiety, haemodynamics and morphofunctional aspects of the heart of Wistar rats? What is the main finding and its importance? Our study showed that the high-protein diet did not interfere with anxiety and haemodynamics. The animals in the hyperproteic group showed positive heart adaptations characterized by less work and lower heart rate without impairing ejection fraction and systemic blood pressure. ABSTRACT: Anxiety is a mechanism preparatory to a response in situations of threat and danger, involving behavioural, affective and physiological factors. Protein-based foods have a high concentration of amino acids which perform multiple functions, including in the biosynthesis of excitatory transmitters for the central nervous system. In recent years, adherence to high-protein diets has been gaining ground in society, on the basis that it brings benefits to the musculoskeletal system and cardiovascular health. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a high-protein diet in a state of anxiety and to investigate morphofunctional cardiovascular effects of a high-protein diet in Wistar rats. The experiment lasted 8 weeks and two groups of male rats were submitted to either a normoproteic or a hyperproteic diet. Anxiety was assessed using the plus maze test and cardiovascular morphofunctional aspects using transthoracic echocardiography and invasive measurements of femoral blood pressure. There was no statistically significant difference in the anxiety test, but the hyperproteic group was more agitated, with greater displacement during the test. Changes were found in systolic and end-diastolic volume, left ventricular diameter in systole and heart rate, which were significantly lower in the hyperproteic group, and there was an increase in the thickness of the interventricular septum in diastole. The results showed no influence of the higher protein diet on the animals' anxiety, body weight and haemodynamics.

SARS-CoV-2 laboratory surveillance during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in southern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Brazil has one of the highest numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths. Rio Grande do Sul (RS) in southern Brazil is one of the leading states in terms of case numbers. As part of the national public health network, the State Central Laboratory (LACEN-RS) changed its routine in 2020 to focus on the diagnosis of COVID-19. This study evaluated the laboratory surveillance of COVID-19 suspected cases analyzed at the LACEN-RS in 2020. METHODS: Viral detection was performed using RT-qPCR in samples from patients with respiratory infection who met the study criteria. Viral RNA was isolated using commercial manual kits or automated extractors, and SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR was performed using the Bio-Manguinhos/Rio de Janeiro, IBMP/Paraná, or Allplex 2019-nCoV assay. In total, 360 representative SARS-CoV-2 samples were sequenced using the Illumina platform. RESULTS: In total, 31,197 of 107,578 (positivity rate = 29%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The number of RT-qPCR tests performed per month followed the COVID-19 epidemic curve observed for the state, with peaks in July-August and December. Females accounted for 63% of the samples, whereas the positivity rate was higher among males (33.1% males vs. 26.5% females). The positivity rate was higher in adults aged 50-79 years compared to the overall positivity rate. The majority of cases were observed in the capital, Porto Alegre, and the metropolitan region. Ten distinct lineages were identified, with B.1.1.28, B.1.1.33, and P.2 being the most frequent. CONCLUSIONS: Here, we describe laboratory surveillance of COVID-19 to identify priorities for epidemiological surveillance actions in RS.

Effect of 0.15% sodium hyaluronate on tear film breakup time in healthy anesthetized cats.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 0.15% sodium hyaluronate (SH) on tear film breakup time (TFBT) in healthy anesthetized cats. PROCEDURES: Forty cats undergoing elective surgery were enrolled. TFBT was assessed before anesthesia to obtain baseline values. As a preanesthetic medication, cats received midazolam, tramadol, and cetamine combined in the same syringe. For anesthetic induction and maintenance, propofol and isoflurane were used. After a 15 min stabilization period to achieve the surgical anesthetic plane, one eye was treated with one drop of SH, while the other eye received saline and served as a control. TFBT was measured at the end of the general anesthesia (T40) and 35 (T75) and 80 min (T120) after the termination of the anesthesia. TFBT values were compared between the control and SH-treated eyes; both values were also compared with the baseline values (p < .05). RESULTS: In the control eyes, TFBT significantly decreased from baseline at all time points (p < .001), while in SH-treated eyes, TFBT significantly increased from baseline only at T40 (p < .0001). In SH-treated eyes, TFBT was significantly higher than that in the control eyes at all time points (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: In healthy cats, TFBT decreases significantly after 40 min of general anesthesia, and one drop of 0.15% sodium hyaluronate was able to maintain the stability of the tear film for up to 75 min in treated eyes. However, the isolated effect of each drug used in our anesthetic protocol on TFBT should be executed in further studies.

Determinantes sociais do letramento em saúde bucal de pais/responsáveis por crianças / Psychosocial determinants of oral health literacy in parents/caregivers of children

O Letramento em Saúde Bucal (LSB) é definido como a capacidade dos indivíduos em obter, processar e compreender informações básicas sobre saúde bucal, serviços necessários para aplicar informações e fazer escolhas de saúde adequadas. Outros fatores determinantes para os cuidados e a manutenção de uma saúde bucal adequada são a percepção em saúde bucal, o uso de serviços odontológicos e aspectos socioeconômicos das familias. O conhecimento, a percepção e a valorização destas informações influenciam o comportamento dos indivíduos. Assim, os objetivos deste estudo foram associar o LSB dos pais/responsáveis com saúde bucal autopercebida e proxy-percebida de seus filhos, e as condições socioeconômicas, além de verificar o impacto da cárie na primeira infância (CPI) e do LSB dos pais/responsáveis no uso de serviços odontológicos por crianças. Foi realizado um estudo transversal representativo com 449 pares de pais e pré-escolares de 4 a 6 anos de idade de Ribeirão das Neves, MG. Os pais/responsáveis responderam à versão brasileira do questionário Hong Kong Oral Health Literacy Assessment Task for Paediatric Dentistry (BOHLAT-P) para mensurar LSB, um questionário sociodemográfico, além de questões sobre sua saúde bucal autopercebida e proxypercebida de seus filhos, influencia da saúde bucal do filho no bem estar geral e uso de serviços odontológicos pelo filho. Duas examinadoras treinadas e calibradas realizaram o diagnóstico de CPI usando o Sistema Internacional de Detecção e Avaliação de Cárie (ICDAS). Os dados dos estudos foram analisados por meio da Regressão de Poisson com variância robusta com abordagem hierárquica e regressão logística multivariável (p<0,05). A análise do estudo 1, com abordagem multivariável hierárquica demonstrou que pais/responsáveis com boa percepção do estado de saúde bucal dos seus filhos (RT=1,04;95%IC:1,00-1,09) e que não percebiam impacto da condição bucal no bem estar geral dos filhos (RT=1,03; 95%IC:1,01-1,10) tinham maiores probabilidade de ter alto LSB. O modelo hierarquico múltiplo foi ajustado pelas variáveis renda familiar, auxílio do governo, histórico de ida ao dentista do respondente, percepção do respondente em relação a condição bucal do pré-escolar e percepção do respondente em relação a influência da condição bucal no bem-estar geral do pré-escolar. Pais/responsáveis que possuíam renda familiar >2 saláriosmínimos apresentavam escores do LSB em média 6% maiores do que aqueles com menor renda familiar (RT=1,06; 95%CI: 1,02-1,10). Pais/responsáveis que não recebiam auxílio do governo apresentavam escores do LSB em média 9% maiores do que aqueles que recebiam tal auxílio (RT=1,09; 95%CI: 1,03- 1,14). A regressão logística multivariável do estudo 2 revelou que crianças cujos pais/responsáveis tinham pior LSB tinham 34% menos chances de usar serviços odontológicos em comparação com aquelas cujos pais tinham melhor LSB (OR=0,66; 95%IC:0,45-0,99). Pré-escolares com presença de lesão de cárie cavitada tiveram 1,82 vezes mais chances de usar serviços odontológicos (OR=1,82; 95%IC:1,23-2,70) em comparação com aqueles com ausência de cárie lesão de cárie cavitada. Conclui-se que o LSB dos pais é influenciado pelas condições socioeconômicas da família e que os serviços odontológicos são mais utilizados por pré-escolares com presença de lesão de cárie cavitada e cujos pais/responsáveis apresentam maiores escores de LSB.

Oral Health Literacy (OHL) is defined as the ability of individuals to obtain, process, and comprehend basic information about oral health, as well as the necessary services to apply this information and make appropriate health choices. Other determinants for the care and maintenance of adequate oral health include oral health perception, utilization of dental services, and socioeconomic aspects of families. The knowledge, perception, and value attributed to this information influence individuals' behavior. Thus, the objectives of this study were to associate parents' OHL with self-perceived and proxy-perceived oral health of their children, as well as socioeconomic conditions, and to assess the impact of early childhood caries (ECC) and parents' OHL on children's dental service utilization. A representative cross-sectional study was conducted with 449 pairs of parents and preschoolers aged 4 to 6 years from Ribeirão das Neves, MG. Parents completed the Brazilian version of the Hong Kong Oral Health Literacy Assessment Task for Paediatric Dentistry (BOHLAT-P) questionnaire to measure OHL, a sociodemographic questionnaire, and questions about their selfperceived oral health and proxy-perceived oral health of their children, the influence of their child's oral health on general well-being, and their child's dental service utilization. Two trained and calibrated examiners diagnosed ECC using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). Data from the studies were analyzed using Hierarchical Multivariable Poisson Regression with robust variance and multivariable logistic regression (p<0.05). The analysis of Study 1, using hierarchical multivariable approach, demonstrated that parents with a good perception of their children's oral health status (RR=1.04; 95%CI: 1.00-1.09) and who did not perceive an impact of oral health condition on their children's general well-being (RR=1.03; 95%CI: 1.01-1.10) were more likely to have high OHL. The multiple hierarchical model was adjusted for family income, government assistance, respondent's dental visit history, respondent's perception of preschooler's oral condition, and respondent's perception of the influence of oral condition on preschooler's general well-being. Parents with a family income >2 minimum wages had on average 6% higher OHL scores than those with lower family income (RR=1.06; 95%CI: 1.02-1.10). Parents who did not receive government assistance had on average 9% higher OHL scores than those who received such assistance (RR=1.09; 95%CI: 1.03-1.14). The multivariable logistic regression of Study 2 revealed that children whose parents had lower OHL had 34% lower odds of using dental services compared to those whose parents had higher OHL (OR=0.66; 95%CI: 0.45-0.99). Preschoolers with cavitated carious lesions were 1.82 times more likely to use dental services (OR=1.82; 95%CI: 1.23-2.70) compared to those without cavitated carious lesions. In conclusion, parents' OHL is influenced by the family's socioeconomic conditions, and dental services are more utilized by preschoolers with cavitated carious lesions and whose parents have higher OHL scores.