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Salmonella Dublin is a serovar that causes severe infections and cattle. Despite the importance of this agent, research on achieving its elimination from dairy farms is limited, which complicates risk mitigation and control efforts. This study thus aimed to assess the prevalence of S. Dublin on a farm with a history of outbreaks, to understand the dynamics of the infection, characterize the antimicrobial resistance of the isolates, and evaluate their genetic similarity. Multiparous cows in the postpartum phase are nearly five times more likely to shed Salmonella sp. A total of 39 cases of fatal septicemic salmonellosis caused by S. Dublin were confirmed in calves aged 3-5 months. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated in 45 strains of S. Dublin, with 48.9% of the isolates classified as multidrug resistant, including resistance to penicillin (48.9%), tetracyclines (42.2%), and fluoroquinolones (33.3%). Seven multidrug-resistant isolates were selected for genomic sequencing. Among the resistance determinants identified, a mutation in the gyrA gene, present in all sequenced isolates, was notable. Analyses of cgMLST and SNPs revealed that the isolates from healthy animals were closely related to those found in animals with confirmed cases of S. Dublin, confirming that the agent was circulating among healthy animals across various categories. A high similarity was also found between the isolates in this study and strains causing salmonellosis in humans in Brazil, thus reinforcing the zoonotic nature and possible epidemiological link between cattle, and the occurrence of this disease in humans.

For optimizing production yield while limiting negative environmental impact, sustainable agriculture benefits from real-time, on-the-spot chemical analysis of soil at low cost. Colorimetric paper sensors are ideal candidates, however, their automated readout and analysis in the field is needed. Using mobile technology for paper sensor readout could, in principle, enable the application of machine-learning models for transforming colorimetric data into threshold-based classes that represent chemical concentration. Such a classification method could provide a basis for soil management decisions where high-resolution lab analysis is not required or available. In tropical regions, where reliable soil data is difficult to acquire, this approach would be particularly useful. Here, we report a mobile chemical analysis system based on colorimetric paper sensors that operates under tropical field conditions. A standard smartphone equipped with a dedicated software application automatically classifies the paper sensor results into three classes-low, medium, or high soil pH-which provides a basis for soil correction. The classification task is performed by a machine-learning model which was trained on the colorimetric pH indicators deployed on the paper sensor. By mapping topsoil pH on a test site with an area of 9 hectares, the mobile system was benchmarked in the field against standard soil lab analysis. The mobile system has correctly classified soil pH in 97% of test cases, while reducing the analysis turnaround time from days (soil lab) to minutes (mobile). By performing on-the-spot analyses using the mobile system in the field, a 9-fold increase of spatial resolution reveals pH-variations not detectable in the standard compound mapping mode of lab analysis. We discuss how the mobile analysis can support smallholder farmers and enable sustainable agriculture practices by avoiding excessive soil correction. The system can be extended to perform multi-parameter chemical tests of soil nutrients for applications in environmental monitoring at marginal manufacturing cost.

Entomological surveillance plays a crucial role in designing and implementing mosquito control measures. In this context, developing more effective collection strategies is essential to accurately estimate the entomological parameters necessary for effective control. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of four traps: CDC light trap, MosqTent, BG-Sentinel, and SkeeterVac, compared to human landing catch (HLC) in the collection of Mansonia mosquitoes, known to cause discomfort to riverside populations along the Madeira River in the District of Jaci Paraná, Porto Velho, in Rondônia state, Brazil. Sampling was conducted, during three periods corresponding to two seasons, dry and rainy, over five consecutive days for each period. The captures using HLC and the installation of the traps took place on the grounds of five selected residences from 6 to 10 pm. Rotational exchanges between houses ensured that all traps and the HLC were used in each of the five residences, following a predetermined Latin square pattern. A total of 7,080 mosquitoes were collected, of which 90.5% belonged to the Mansonia genus, distributed in four species: Mansonia titillans (75.97%), Mansonia humeralis (18.91%), Mansonia amazonensis (1.90%), and Mansonia indubitans (1.37%). HLC captured the highest number of Mansonia mosquitoes (58.1%), followed by SkeeterVac (21.8%) and MosqTent (18.9%). CDC and BG-Sentinel showed a very low performance (0.92 and 0.23%, respectively). Although HLC performed better in capturing Mansonia, our results suggest that SkeeterVac and MosqTent can serve as valuable additional tools to entomological inventories or sentinels for detecting invasive species in areas with high epidemiological vulnerability, thereby providing evidence-based recommendations for improving mosquito control measures and entomological surveillance.

IntroductionThe effectiveness of supraglottic airway devices (SGDs) as a strategy for blind endotracheal intubation (ETI) was compared in this study.MethodsA systematic review of clinical trials (CTs) involving SGDs for blind ETI in patients under general anesthesia or simulation manikins, was conducted. CTs that used SGDs for fiberoptic-guided ETI and those conducted in children were excluded. Searches were performed in Embase, MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and LILACS. The primary outcomes examined were the success rate of blind ETI and intubation time. Secondary outcomes were first-attempt intubation success rate and perceived ease of use.ResultsA total of 567 records were identified from databases, and 16 were identified through citation searches. Ultimately, 27 CTs met the inclusion criteria. The Fastrach Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA Fastrach), i-gel, Air-Q Intubating Laryngeal Airway, and Supraglottic Airway Laryngopharyngeal Tube (S.A.L.T.) were the most used SGDs for blind ETI. LMA Fastrach was the most frequently compared device in these CTs. Among the studies in patients, LMA Fastrach and i-gel were the devices that showed the shortest intubation time, although it may be influenced by the way intubation time is assessed. The SGDs with the highest overall success rate were i-gel, S.A.L.T., LMA Fastrach, and single-use LMA Fastrach, followed by Air-Q, and the Intubating Laryngeal Tube Suction-Disposable (iLTS-D2), all achieving success rates greater than 90%. AuraGain had the lowest first-attempt and overall success rates for blind ETI with SGDs.ConclusionNew SGDs have not surpassed the LMA Fastrach effectiveness for blind ETI. The single-use LMA Fastrach combines the efficacy of the reusable LMA Fastrach with the features of other SGDs and may be a suitable replacement for them. The I-gel is also a viable alternative for blind ETI, while the AuraGain may not be recommended for this purpose.

In recent years, different laboratories have provided evidence on the role of miRNAs in regulation of corneal epithelial metabolism, permeability and wound healing, as well as their alteration after surgery and in some ocular pathologies. We searched the available databases reporting miRNA expression in the human eye, looking for miRNAs highly expressed in central cornea, which could be crucial for maintenance of the epithelial phenotype. Using the rabbit RCE1(5T5) cell line as a model of corneal epithelial differentiation, we describe the participation of miR-141-3p as a possible negative regulator of the proliferative/migratory phenotype in corneal epithelial cells. The expression of miR-141-3p followed a time course similar to the differentiation-linked KRT3 cytokeratin, being delayed 24-48 hours relative to PAX6 expression; such result suggested that miR-141-3p only regulates the expression of terminal phenotype. Inhibition of miR-141-3p led to increased cell proliferation and motility, and induced the expression of molecular makers characteristic of an Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). Comparison between the transcriptional profile of cells in which miR-141-3p was knocked down, and the transcriptomes from proliferative non-differentiated and differentiated stratified epithelia suggest that miR-141-3p is involved in the expression of terminal differentiation mediating the arrest of cell proliferation and inhibiting the EMT in highly motile early differentiating cells.

Bacteria employ two-component signal transduction systems (TCS) to sense environmental fluctuations and adjust their cellular functions. The Arc TCS is crucial for facultative anaerobes as it enables adaptation to varying respiratory conditions. The Escherichia coli ArcB detects redox changes through two cysteine amino acid residues within its PAS domain. However, the ArcB homologs from most bacteria belonging to the Pasteurellaceae family, lack the entire PAS domain, and in consequence the two regulatory cysteine amino acid residues. In this study, we show that the PAS-less ArcB of Haemophilus influenzae regulates its activity via a cysteine-independent mechanism, and we provide data suggesting that it responds to metabolic signals rather than redox cues. Thus, these two ArcB orthologs sense distinct signals and their regulatory mechanism rely on different molecular events. Our findings reveal divergent evolutionary trajectories of these ArcB homologs, despite the overall conservation of protein components, providing an example of how evolution has shaped different sensing strategies in bacteria.

The National Immunization Program (PNI) is one of Brazil's most significant public health interventions. However, recent years have witnessed a progressive decline in vaccination coverage despite the success of the PNI and the expansion of Primary Health Care (PHC), the main point of entry for the population into health services. To address this challenge, broader strategies are needed, such as identifying areas at high risk for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases. This study aimed to analyze the risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases in the 853 municipalities of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2018 to 2022. This epidemiological time-series study uses secondary data on vaccination coverage, dropout rates, and homogeneity of the recommended immunobiologicals for children under 2 years of age from 2018 to 2022 in Minas Gerais. We obtained the data from the National Immunization Program Information System (SIPNI). The study highlighted a decline in vaccination coverage from 2018 to 2021, with a significant drop following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. According to the risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases, the proportion of municipalities classified as high and very high risk remained stable from 2018 to 2019, increased from 2019 to 2020 and from 2020 to 2021, and decreased from 2021 to 2022. We observed the public health impact not only regarding COVID-19 but also on most vaccine-preventable diseases. Given the scenario of declining vaccination coverage and the risk of a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, health services must implement public health strategies to mitigate this situation. Risk classification proved to be an effective methodology for prioritizing locations for health interventions. It enabled the analysis of the vaccination scenario in the state following the implementation of a participatory action research project conducted jointly by academia and health services.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247433.].

The fungi present in the breeding waters of mosquitoes have been scarcely investigated. This work explored the diversity of cultivable fungi present in the breeding sites of the South American malaria vector mosquito Anopheles darlingi. Water samples were collected from four sites located in the municipalities of Coari and São Gabriel da Cachoeira and four different culture media were used for the isolation of fungi. Two-hundred-and-six fungal strains were isolated and morphologically similar fungi were grouped into 30 morphotypes. Their taxonomic identities were assigned by macro and microscopic observations and sequencing of rDNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2). Representatives of 26 morphotypes were identified at the genus level, one only at the family level, and three were not identified. The identified morphotypes belong to the phyla, Ascomycota (80.6%), Basidiomycota (11.7%), and Mucoromycota (2.4%), distributed in five classes, ten orders, 25 families, and 26 genera. This study fills a considerable knowledge gap about the fungi present in the breeding sites of An. darlingi mosquitoes.

IntroductionGenitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) defines a set of symptoms associated with an estrogen deficit involving alterations in organs genitourinary and that results in several urinary, genital, and sexual alterations. Brazilian women live about a third of their life after menopause, where hormonal changes occur along with clinical manifestations, characterized by vaginal and vulvar dryness, burning sensation, discomfort, vulvovaginal irritation, lack of lubrication, dyspareunia and urinary incontinence. Fractionated photothermolysis and radiofrequency systems, alone or in combination were tested to improve GSM.ObjectiveThe goal of this study is to elaborate a protocol to evaluate the clinical response of patients with symptoms of GSM after the application of photobiomodulation in the vulvar region.MethodIn this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study protocol, women over 50 years of age who are in the postmenopausal period (amenorrhea for at least 12 months, with no pathology involved) with one or more symptoms of GSM will be randomly divided into two groups. The treatment group (n = 30) will receive four consecutive applications, weekly, using DMC laser diode (λ = 808 nm), 4J per point, 100mW of power, 1,016W/cm2, 8 sites in the vulvar region, The Placebo Group (n = 30) will be handled as treated, but with the laser turned off. The quality of life will be assessed using female sexual functioning index (FSFI-6), urinary incontinence questionnaire (ICIQ-SF), Quality of life will be analyzed using the female sexual functioning index (FSFI-6). The intensity of menopausal symptoms will be evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS), the vulvo vaginal atrophy will be measured by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Also, the vaginal temperature will be measured using a thermal camera, the pressure of the pelvic floor force (vaginal dynamometer) and a 1-hour Pad Test will be performed to quantify the urinary loss. With this procedure, we intend to obtain an overall better life quality and diminished symptoms in women with GSM. All assessments will be performed prior to the first irradiation and after the last one.Trial registrationThis protocol is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT05557799.

AimTo evaluate in vitro the effect of laser photobiomodulation (PBM) combined or not with 30-nm hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HANp), on the osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) by morphometric analysis using artificial intelligence programs (TensorFlow and ArcGIS).MethodsUC-MSCs were isolated and cultured until 80% confluence was reached. The cells were then plated according to the following experimental groups: G1 -control (DMEM), G2 -BMP-2, G3 -BMP-7, G4 -PBM (660 nm, 10 mW, 2.5 J/cm2, spot size of 0.08 cm2), G5 -HANp, G6 -HANp + PBM, G7 -BMP-2 + PBM, and G8 -BMP-7 + PBM. The MTT assay was used to analyze cell viability at 24, 48 and 72 h. Osteogenic differentiation was assessed by Alizarin Red staining after 7, 14 and 21 days. For morphometric analysis, areas of osteogenic differentiation (pixel2) were delimited by machine learning using the TensorFlow and ArcGIS 10.8 programs.ResultsThe results of the MTT assay showed high rates of cell viability and proliferation in all groups when compared to control. Morphometric analysis revealed a greater area of osteogenic differentiation in G5 (HANp = 142709,33±36573,39) and G6 (HANp + PBM = 125452,00±24226,95) at all time points evaluated.ConclusionIt is suggested that HANp, whether combined with PBM or not, may be a promising alternative to enhance the cellular viability and osteogenic differentiation of hUC-MSCs.

Blood gas analysis reflects the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs. This test provides important information, since the relationship between these gases has a direct impact on the acid-basic balance in the body. Given the significance of blood gas analysis in Brazilian reptiles, this study set out to establish temperature-corrected and uncorrected reference intervals for venous blood gas measurements in Chelonoidis carbonarius, and to compare values between females and males. In this study, 19 animals were used, 8 males and 11 females. Blood samples were collected from the dorsal coccygeal vein, and the analyses were performed immediately after blood sample collection. The following parameters were measured: pH, PO2, HCO3-, TCO2, BEecf, Na, K, ICa, and Glu, and were compared between females and males. Additionally, pH, pCO2, and pO2 values were compared with and without temperature correction. Oxygen saturation and Na levels were significantly higher (p

This study was carried out to compare the impact of choline supplementation (available from two sources synthetic and natural) on various dosages in broilers. The mode of choline supplementation, via diet and additional sources, synthetic and natural, and the data of performance, carcass quality, blood parameters, and hepatic steatosis were compared. A total of 1050 day-old male Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 10 treatments, using a completely randomized design model in a factorial scheme, with 6 replicates per treatment and 25 birds per replicate. Choline was supplemented using three sources: synthetic choline chloride 60% (CC), and two sources of natural choline A (NCA), and B (NCB). The Control treatment did not receive any choline supplementation. The diets were supplemented with low, intermediate and high doses of choline sources (400g/t, 800g/t, and 1200g/t of CC; 100g/t, 200g/t, and 300g/t of both NCA and NCB). Data analysis was performed using a factorial model to investigate the effects of choline supplementation (CC, NCA, NCB) and doses on the measured variables. Overall, the results indicated that the the performance of NCA was better than CC & NCB, specifically the dose of 100g/t of NCA outperformed MAR at 100g/t & CC at 400g/t, leading to a significant increase in body weight gain (85.66g & 168.84g respectively), and a noteworthy (9- & 12-point respectively) improvement in feed conversion ratio. Furthermore, NCA contributed to a reduction in steatosis when contrasted with various NCB & CC doses, likely due to the presence of curcumins and catechins in the natural choline source. These findings demonstrated that NCA supplementation yielded superior results compared to CC and NCB across both performance and liver health aspects in broilers aged 1 to 42 days. In conclusion, NCA can be used to replace the CC 60% without compromise on the zootechnical performance in broilers.

BackgroundHuman Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) are fossil viruses that composes 8% of the human genome and plays several important roles in human physiology, including muscle repair/myogenesis. It is believed that inflammation may also regulate HERV expression, and therefore may contribute in the muscle repair, especially after training exercise. Hence, this study aimed to assess the level of HERVs expression and inflammation profile in practitioners' resistance exercises after an acute strength training session.MethodsHealthy volunteers were separated in regular practitioners of resistance exercise training group (REG, n = 27) and non-trained individuals (Control Group, n = 20). All individuals performed a strength exercise section. Blood samples were collected before the exercise (T0) and 45 minutes after the training session (T1). HERV-K (HML1-10) and W were relatively quantified, cytokine concentration and circulating microparticles were assessed.ResultsREG presented higher level of HERV-W expression (~2.5 fold change) than CG at T1 (pConclusionREG individuals exhibited a significant upregulation of HERV-W and modulation of inflammatory markers when compared to CG. This combined effect could potentially support the process of skeletal muscle repair in the exercised individuals.

Syzigium aromaticum essential oil (EO), eugenol, and β-caryophyllene were evaluated regarding antifungal, antibiofilm, and in vitro toxicity. Additionally, in vivo toxicity of EO was observed. Anti-Candida activity was assessed through broth microdilution assay for all compounds. Time-kill assay (0, 1, 10, 30 min, 1, 2, and 4 h) was used to determine the influence of EO and eugenol on Candida Growth kinetics. Thereafter, both compounds were evaluated regarding their capacity to act on a biofilm formation and on mature biofilm, based on CFU/ml/g of dry weight. Cell Titer Blue Viability Assay was used for in vitro cytotoxicity, using oral epithelial cells (TR146) and human monocytes (THP-1). Lastly, Galleria mellonella model defined the EO in vivo acute toxicity. All compounds, except β-cariofilene (MIC > 8000 μg/ml), presented antifungal activity against Candida strains (MIC 500-1000 μg/ml). The growth kinetics of Candida was affected by the EO (5xMIC 30 min onward; 10xMIC 10 min onward) and eugenol (5xMIC 10 min onward; 10xMIC 1 min onward). Fungal viability was also affected by 5xMIC and 10xMIC of both compounds during biofilm formation and upon mature biofilms. LD50 was defined for TR146 and THP1 cells at, respectively, 59.37 and 79.54 μg/ml for the EO and 55.35 and 84.16 μg/ml for eugenol. No sign of toxicity was seen in vivo up to 10mg/ml (20 x MIC) for the EO. S. aromaticum and eugenol presented antifungal and antibiofilm activity, with action on cell growth kinetics. In vivo acute toxicity showed a safe parameter for the EO up to 10 mg/ml.

The present study compares the ability of distinct immunological assays (chemiluminescence immunoassay-CLIA, western blot-WB and flow cytometry-FC-Simplex and Duplex) to detect anti-HTLV (human T-lymphotropic virus) antibodies in candidates for blood donations at the Amazonas State Blood Center (Brazil) between January 2018 and December 2022. Overall, 257,942 samples from candidates for blood donations were screened using CLIA, which led to 0.15% seropositivity for HTLV (409 samples). A total of 151 candidates for blood donations were enrolled for retesting with CLIA followed by additional testing using WB and FC-Simplex and Duplex analysis. Our results demonstrated that 62% (93/151), 20% (30/151) and 17% (26/151) of the samples presented positive results with retesting using CLIA, WB and FC-Simplex analysis, respectively. Additional analysis of the CLIA, WB and FC-Simplex results revealed an overall agreement of 56% for CLIA and WB (22 co-negative; 30 co-positive samples), 48% for CLIA and FC-Simplex (21 co-negative; 24 co-positive samples) and 80% for WB and FC-Simplex (51 co-negative; 23 co-positive samples). Considering the WB as the reference standard for the diagnosis of infection with HTLV-1/2, we observed that the CLIA results of ≤3.0 RLU and >10.0 RLU in the retest can be used define a negative or positive result, respectively, and could be used as new specific cut-off values. The overall agreement between WB and FC-Duplex for accomplishing the differential diagnosis was evaluated and demonstrated 100% correspondence for the diagnosis of HTLV-1 (15/15) and HTLV-2 (7/7). Our findings demonstrate that gaps in the diagnosis of infection with HTLV-1/2 could be overcome by the simultaneous use of distinct immunological assays during retesting of candidates for blood donations.

IntroductionPeople with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) can present initially muscle weakness, which is a debilitating symptom that may be improved by engaging in muscle strengthening activities. Currently, the effects of motor interventions for muscle strengthening in people with ALS are unclear. This review intends to analyze the effects of motor interventions for muscle strengthening in individuals with ALS.Methods and analysisRandomized, non-randomized, and quasi-experimental clinical trials assessing individuals with ALS of both sexes, aged 18 years or older, who have received motor interventions for muscle strengthening considering all practices that can lead to increased strength, endurance, power and muscular hypertrophy will be included. No restriction on language, location, or publication date will be applied. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), SPORTDiscus, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) databases will be searched. The US National Institutes of Health Ongoing, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the reference lists of included studies will also be searched. Two reviewers will independently screen titles and abstracts and extract data from included studies. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed by the PEDro scale and the certainty of the evidence by the GRADE approach. Disagreements will be resolved by a third researcher. Findings will be presented in text and table formats. A meta-analysis will compare the effects of motor interventions for muscle strengthening versus placebo or other interventions.

BackgroundAlthough scleroatrophic gallbladder is a rare condition, it presents significant clinical challenges in diagnosis and management. More agreement is needed on this disorder's diagnostic criteria and optimal management approach. We will conduct a systematic review to summarise the scleroatrophic gallbladder's preoperative diagnostic criteria, including imaging modalities.MethodsA systematic review will be undertaken using the PRISMA guidelines. The protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024503701). We will search in Medline (via PubMed), Embase, SCOPUS, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to find original studies reporting about scleroatrophic gallbladder or synonymous. Two reviewers will independently screen the titles and abstracts following the eligibility criteria. We will include all types of studies that describe any diagnostic criteria or tools. After retrieving the full text of the selected studies, we will conduct a standardised data extraction. Finally, a narrative synthesis will be performed. The quality of the identified studies will be assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies- 2 tool.DiscussionThis systematic review will provide information on the preoperative diagnostic criteria of the scleroatrophic gallbladder and the value of imaging studies in its diagnosis. In addition, this work will aid doctors in the decision-making process for diagnosing scleroatrophic gallbladder and propose treatment approaches to this condition.Systematic review registrationThe protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024503701).

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) and the use of probiotics on the treatment of halitosis.MethodsFifty-two participants, aged from 18 to 25 years, exhaling sulfhydride (H2S) ≥ 112 ppb were selected. They were allocated into 4 groups (n = 13): Group 1: tongue scraper; Group 2: treated once with aPDT; Group 3: probiotic capsule containing Lactobacillus salivarius WB21 (6.7 x 108 CFU) and xylitol (280mg), 3 times a day after meals, for 14 days; Group 4: treated once with aPDT and with the probiotic capsule for 14 days. Halimetry with gas chromatography (clinical evaluation) and microbiological samples were collected from the dorsum of the tongue before and after aPDT, as well as after 7, 14, and 30 days. The clinical data failed to follow a normal distribution; therefore, comparisons were made using the Kruskal-Wallis test (independent measures) and Friedman ANOVA (dependent measures) followed by appropriate posthoc tests, when necessary. For the microbiological data, seeing as the data failed to follow a normal distribution, the Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test was performed with Dunn's post-test. The significance level was α = 0.05.ResultsClinical results (halimetry) showed an immediate significant reduction in halitosis with aPDT (p = 0.0008) and/or tongue scraper (p = 0.0006). Probiotics showed no difference in relation to the initial levels (p = 0.7530). No significant differences were found in the control appointments. The amount of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola were not altered throughout the analysis (p = 0.1616, p = 0.2829 and p = 0.2882, respectively).ConclusionThere was an immediate clinical reduction of halitosis with aPDT and tongue scraping, but there was no reduction in the number of bacteria throughout the study, or differences in the control times, both in the clinical and microbiological results. New clinical trials are necessary to better assess the tested therapies.Trial registrationClinical Trials NCT03996044.

IntroductionGenetic variants may influence Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling in the immune response to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and lead to cervical cancer. In this study, we investigated the pattern of TLR expression in the transcriptome of HPV-positive and HPV-negative cervical cancer samples and looked for variants potentially related to TLR gene alterations in exomes from different populations.Materials and methodsA cervical tissue sample from 28 women, which was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, was used to examine TLR gene expression. Subsequently, the transcripts related to the TLRs that showed significant gene expression were queried in the Genome Aggregation Database to search for variants in more than 5,728 exomes from different ethnicities.ResultsCancer and HPV were found to be associated (pConclusionThe results of this study suggest that the variants found in the transcriptomes of different populations may lead to impairment of the functional aspect of TLRs that show significant gene expression in cervical cancer samples caused by HPV.

OBJECTIVES:Although the majority of the global population lives in developing countries, most of the epidemiological data related to intensive care unit (ICU) acute kidney injury (AKI) comes from developed countries. This systematic review aims to ascertain the methodology of studies on ICU AKI patients in developing and developed countries, to determine whether epidemiological comparisons between these two settings are possible, and to present a summary estimate of AKI incidence. METHODS:A systematic review of published studies reporting AKI in intensive care units (2005-2015) identified in PubMed, LILACS, and IBECs databases was conducted. We compared developed and developing countries by evaluating study methodology, AKI reference serum creatinine definitions, population characteristics, AKI incidence and mortality. AKI incidence was calculated with a random-effects model. RESULTS:Ninety-two studies were included, one of which reported data from both country categories: 60 from developed countries (1,057,332 patients) and 33 from developing countries (34,539 patients). In 78% of the studies, AKI was defined by the RIFLE, AKIN or KDIGO criteria. Oliguria had 11 different definitions and reference creatinine 23 different values. For the meta-analysis, 38 studies from developed and 18 from developing countries were selected, with similar AKI incidence: 39.3% and 35.1%, respectively. The need for dialysis, length of ICU stay and mortality were higher in developing countries. CONCLUSION:Although patient characteristics and AKI incidence were similar in developed and developing countries, main outcomes were worse in developing country studies. There are significant caveats when comparing AKI epidemiology in developed and developing countries, including lack of standardization of reference serum creatinine, oliguria and the timeframe for AKI assessment. Larger, prospective, multicenter studies from developing countries are urgently needed to capture AKI data from the overall population without ICU access.

BackgroundAn undetectable serum HIV-1 load is key to effectiveness of antiretroviral (ARV) therapy, which depends on adherence to treatment. We evaluated factors possibly associated with ARV adherence and virologic response in HIV-infected heterosexual individuals.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in 200 HIV-1 serodiscordant couples and 100 unpartnered individuals receiving ARV treatment at a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil. All subjects provided written informed consent, answered demographic/behavioral questionnaires through audio computer-assisted self-interviews (ACASI), and collected blood and vaginal samples for biological markers and assessment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). HIV-negative partners were counseled and tested for HIV-1.ResultsThe study population mean age was 39.9 years, 53.6% were female, 62.5% were Caucasian, 52.6% had incomplete or complete elementary education, 63.1% resided in Porto Alegre. Demographic, behavioral and biological marker characteristics were similar between couples and single individuals. There was an association between adherence reported on ACASI and an undetectable serum viral load (P

The Metarhizium anisopliae complex consists of 34 formally described phylogenetic species. Metarhizium anisopliae sensu lato has been used for decades in Brazil as a biological control agent for controlling spittlebugs in sugarcane plantations. We investigated the identities of the Metarhizium isolates used in mycoinsecticide formulations through multilocus phylogenetic analyses and morphological characterization for species delimitation. A well-supported clade containing only isolates from this study formed a sister group with species of M. anisopliae sensu stricto, which we described as a new taxon, M. mendonceae sp. nov. Isolates URM 8144 and URM 8145 are used in the formulation of various brands of biological insecticides; however, they have always been referred to as M. anisopliae. According to the antibiosis assay, all the isolates of this new species were able to colonize and kill Mahanarva spectabilis nymphs. Therefore, M. mendonceae has been used in the formulation of mycoinsecticides for several decades under the name M. anisopliae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella Dublin is a serovar that causes severe infections and cattle. Despite the importance of this agent, research on achieving its elimination from dairy farms is limited, which complicates risk mitigation and control efforts. This study thus aimed to assess the prevalence of S. Dublin on a farm with a history of outbreaks, to understand the dynamics of the infection, characterize the antimicrobial resistance of the isolates, and evaluate their genetic similarity. Multiparous cows in the postpartum phase are nearly five times more likely to shed Salmonella sp. A total of 39 cases of fatal septicemic salmonellosis caused by S. Dublin were confirmed in calves aged 3–5 months. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated in 45 strains of S. Dublin, with 48.9% of the isolates classified as multidrug resistant, including resistance to penicillin (48.9%), tetracyclines (42.2%), and fluoroquinolones (33.3%). Seven multidrug-resistant isolates were selected for genomic sequencing. Among the resistance determinants identified, a mutation in the gyrA gene, present in all sequenced isolates, was notable. Analyses of cgMLST and SNPs revealed that the isolates from healthy animals were closely related to those found in animals with confirmed cases of S. Dublin, confirming that the agent was circulating among healthy animals across various categories. A high similarity was also found between the isolates in this study and strains causing salmonellosis in humans in Brazil, thus reinforcing the zoonotic nature and possible epidemiological link between cattle, and the occurrence of this disease in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For optimizing production yield while limiting negative environmental impact, sustainable agriculture benefits from real-time, on-the-spot chemical analysis of soil at low cost. Colorimetric paper sensors are ideal candidates, however, their automated readout and analysis in the field is needed. Using mobile technology for paper sensor readout could, in principle, enable the application of machine-learning models for transforming colorimetric data into threshold-based classes that represent chemical concentration. Such a classification method could provide a basis for soil management decisions where high-resolution lab analysis is not required or available. In tropical regions, where reliable soil data is difficult to acquire, this approach would be particularly useful. Here, we report a mobile chemical analysis system based on colorimetric paper sensors that operates under tropical field conditions. A standard smartphone equipped with a dedicated software application automatically classifies the paper sensor results into three classes—low, medium, or high soil pH—which provides a basis for soil correction. The classification task is performed by a machine-learning model which was trained on the colorimetric pH indicators deployed on the paper sensor. By mapping topsoil pH on a test site with an area of 9 hectares, the mobile system was benchmarked in the field against standard soil lab analysis. The mobile system has correctly classified soil pH in 97% of test cases, while reducing the analysis turnaround time from days (soil lab) to minutes (mobile). By performing on-the-spot analyses using the mobile system in the field, a 9-fold increase of spatial resolution reveals pH-variations not detectable in the standard compound mapping mode of lab analysis. We discuss how the mobile analysis can support smallholder farmers and enable sustainable agriculture practices by avoiding excessive soil correction. The system can be extended to perform multi-parameter chemical tests of soil nutrients for applications in environmental monitoring at marginal manufacturing cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomological surveillance plays a crucial role in designing and implementing mosquito control measures. In this context, developing more effective collection strategies is essential to accurately estimate the entomological parameters necessary for effective control. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of four traps: CDC light trap, MosqTent, BG-Sentinel, and SkeeterVac, compared to human landing catch (HLC) in the collection of Mansonia mosquitoes, known to cause discomfort to riverside populations along the Madeira River in the District of Jaci Paraná, Porto Velho, in Rondônia state, Brazil. Sampling was conducted, during three periods corresponding to two seasons, dry and rainy, over five consecutive days for each period. The captures using HLC and the installation of the traps took place on the grounds of five selected residences from 6 to 10 pm. Rotational exchanges between houses ensured that all traps and the HLC were used in each of the five residences, following a predetermined Latin square pattern. A total of 7,080 mosquitoes were collected, of which 90.5% belonged to the Mansonia genus, distributed in four species: Mansonia titillans (75.97%), Mansonia humeralis (18.91%), Mansonia amazonensis (1.90%), and Mansonia indubitans (1.37%). HLC captured the highest number of Mansonia mosquitoes (58.1%), followed by SkeeterVac (21.8%) and MosqTent (18.9%). CDC and BG-Sentinel showed a very low performance (0.92 and 0.23%, respectively). Although HLC performed better in capturing Mansonia, our results suggest that SkeeterVac and MosqTent can serve as valuable additional tools to entomological inventories or sentinels for detecting invasive species in areas with high epidemiological vulnerability, thereby providing evidence-based recommendations for improving mosquito control measures and entomological surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The effectiveness of supraglottic airway devices (SGDs) as a strategy for blind endotracheal intubation (ETI) was compared in this study. Methods: A systematic review of clinical trials (CTs) involving SGDs for blind ETI in patients under general anesthesia or simulation manikins, was conducted. CTs that used SGDs for fiberoptic-guided ETI and those conducted in children were excluded. Searches were performed in Embase, MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and LILACS. The primary outcomes examined were the success rate of blind ETI and intubation time. Secondary outcomes were first-attempt intubation success rate and perceived ease of use. Results: A total of 567 records were identified from databases, and 16 were identified through citation searches. Ultimately, 27 CTs met the inclusion criteria. The Fastrach Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA Fastrach), i-gel, Air-Q Intubating Laryngeal Airway, and Supraglottic Airway Laryngopharyngeal Tube (S.A.L.T.) were the most used SGDs for blind ETI. LMA Fastrach was the most frequently compared device in these CTs. Among the studies in patients, LMA Fastrach and i-gel were the devices that showed the shortest intubation time, although it may be influenced by the way intubation time is assessed. The SGDs with the highest overall success rate were i-gel, S.A.L.T., LMA Fastrach, and single-use LMA Fastrach, followed by Air-Q, and the Intubating Laryngeal Tube Suction-Disposable (iLTS-D2), all achieving success rates greater than 90%. AuraGain had the lowest first-attempt and overall success rates for blind ETI with SGDs. Conclusion: New SGDs have not surpassed the LMA Fastrach effectiveness for blind ETI. The single-use LMA Fastrach combines the efficacy of the reusable LMA Fastrach with the features of other SGDs and may be a suitable replacement for them. The I-gel is also a viable alternative for blind ETI, while the AuraGain may not be recommended for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, different laboratories have provided evidence on the role of miRNAs in regulation of corneal epithelial metabolism, permeability and wound healing, as well as their alteration after surgery and in some ocular pathologies. We searched the available databases reporting miRNA expression in the human eye, looking for miRNAs highly expressed in central cornea, which could be crucial for maintenance of the epithelial phenotype. Using the rabbit RCE1(5T5) cell line as a model of corneal epithelial differentiation, we describe the participation of miR-141-3p as a possible negative regulator of the proliferative/migratory phenotype in corneal epithelial cells. The expression of miR-141-3p followed a time course similar to the differentiation-linked KRT3 cytokeratin, being delayed 24–48 hours relative to PAX6 expression; such result suggested that miR-141-3p only regulates the expression of terminal phenotype. Inhibition of miR-141-3p led to increased cell proliferation and motility, and induced the expression of molecular makers characteristic of an Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). Comparison between the transcriptional profile of cells in which miR-141-3p was knocked down, and the transcriptomes from proliferative non-differentiated and differentiated stratified epithelia suggest that miR-141-3p is involved in the expression of terminal differentiation mediating the arrest of cell proliferation and inhibiting the EMT in highly motile early differentiating cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria employ two-component signal transduction systems (TCS) to sense environmental fluctuations and adjust their cellular functions. The Arc TCS is crucial for facultative anaerobes as it enables adaptation to varying respiratory conditions. The Escherichia coli ArcB detects redox changes through two cysteine amino acid residues within its PAS domain. However, the ArcB homologs from most bacteria belonging to the Pasteurellaceae family, lack the entire PAS domain, and in consequence the two regulatory cysteine amino acid residues. In this study, we show that the PAS-less ArcB of Haemophilus influenzae regulates its activity via a cysteine-independent mechanism, and we provide data suggesting that it responds to metabolic signals rather than redox cues. Thus, these two ArcB orthologs sense distinct signals and their regulatory mechanism rely on different molecular events. Our findings reveal divergent evolutionary trajectories of these ArcB homologs, despite the overall conservation of protein components, providing an example of how evolution has shaped different sensing strategies in bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fungi present in the breeding waters of mosquitoes have been scarcely investigated. This work explored the diversity of cultivable fungi present in the breeding sites of the South American malaria vector mosquito Anopheles darlingi. Water samples were collected from four sites located in the municipalities of Coari and São Gabriel da Cachoeira and four different culture media were used for the isolation of fungi. Two-hundred-and-six fungal strains were isolated and morphologically similar fungi were grouped into 30 morphotypes. Their taxonomic identities were assigned by macro and microscopic observations and sequencing of rDNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2). Representatives of 26 morphotypes were identified at the genus level, one only at the family level, and three were not identified. The identified morphotypes belong to the phyla, Ascomycota (80.6%), Basidiomycota (11.7%), and Mucoromycota (2.4%), distributed in five classes, ten orders, 25 families, and 26 genera. This study fills a considerable knowledge gap about the fungi present in the breeding sites of An. darlingi mosquitoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The National Immunization Program (PNI) is one of Brazil's most significant public health interventions. However, recent years have witnessed a progressive decline in vaccination coverage despite the success of the PNI and the expansion of Primary Health Care (PHC), the main point of entry for the population into health services. To address this challenge, broader strategies are needed, such as identifying areas at high risk for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases. This study aimed to analyze the risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases in the 853 municipalities of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2018 to 2022. This epidemiological time-series study uses secondary data on vaccination coverage, dropout rates, and homogeneity of the recommended immunobiologicals for children under 2 years of age from 2018 to 2022 in Minas Gerais. We obtained the data from the National Immunization Program Information System (SIPNI). The study highlighted a decline in vaccination coverage from 2018 to 2021, with a significant drop following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. According to the risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases, the proportion of municipalities classified as high and very high risk remained stable from 2018 to 2019, increased from 2019 to 2020 and from 2020 to 2021, and decreased from 2021 to 2022. We observed the public health impact not only regarding COVID-19 but also on most vaccine-preventable diseases. Given the scenario of declining vaccination coverage and the risk of a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, health services must implement public health strategies to mitigate this situation. Risk classification proved to be an effective methodology for prioritizing locations for health interventions. It enabled the analysis of the vaccination scenario in the state following the implementation of a participatory action research project conducted jointly by academia and health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) defines a set of symptoms associated with an estrogen deficit involving alterations in organs genitourinary and that results in several urinary, genital, and sexual alterations. Brazilian women live about a third of their life after menopause, where hormonal changes occur along with clinical manifestations, characterized by vaginal and vulvar dryness, burning sensation, discomfort, vulvovaginal irritation, lack of lubrication, dyspareunia and urinary incontinence. Fractionated photothermolysis and radiofrequency systems, alone or in combination were tested to improve GSM. Objective: The goal of this study is to elaborate a protocol to evaluate the clinical response of patients with symptoms of GSM after the application of photobiomodulation in the vulvar region. Method: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study protocol, women over 50 years of age who are in the postmenopausal period (amenorrhea for at least 12 months, with no pathology involved) with one or more symptoms of GSM will be randomly divided into two groups. The treatment group (n = 30) will receive four consecutive applications, weekly, using DMC laser diode (λ = 808 nm), 4J per point, 100mW of power, 1,016W/cm2, 8 sites in the vulvar region, The Placebo Group (n = 30) will be handled as treated, but with the laser turned off. The quality of life will be assessed using female sexual functioning index (FSFI-6), urinary incontinence questionnaire (ICIQ-SF), Quality of life will be analyzed using the female sexual functioning index (FSFI-6). The intensity of menopausal symptoms will be evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS), the vulvo vaginal atrophy will be measured by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Also, the vaginal temperature will be measured using a thermal camera, the pressure of the pelvic floor force (vaginal dynamometer) and a 1-hour Pad Test will be performed to quantify the urinary loss. With this procedure, we intend to obtain an overall better life quality and diminished symptoms in women with GSM. All assessments will be performed prior to the first irradiation and after the last one. Trial registration: This protocol is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT05557799. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundTheory of Change (ToC) has become an established approach to design and evaluate interventions. While ToC should-in line with the growing international focus on evidence-informed health decision-making-consider explicit approaches to incorporate evidence, there is limited guidance on how this should be done. This rapid review aims to identify and synthesize the available literature on how to systematically use research evidence when developing or adapting ToCs in the health sector.MethodsA rapid review methodology using a systematic approach, was designed. Eight electronic databases were consulted to search for peer-reviewed and gray publications detailing tools, methods, and recommendations promoting the systematic integration of research evidence in ToCs. The included studies were compared, and the findings summarized qualitatively into themes to identify key principles, stages, and procedures, guiding the systematic integration of research evidence when developing or revising a ToC.ResultsThis review included 18 studies. The main sources from which evidence was retrieved in the ToC development process were institutional data, literature searches, and stakeholder consultation. There was a variety of ways of finding and using evidence in ToC. Firstly, the review provided an overview of existing definitions of ToC, methods applied in ToC development and the related ToC stages. Secondly, a typology of 7 stages relevant for evidence integration into ToCs was developed, outlining the types of evidence and research methods the included studies applied for each of the proposed stages.ConclusionThis rapid review adds to the existing literature in two ways. First, it provides an up-to-date and comprehensive review of the existing methods for incorporating evidence into ToC development in the health sector. Second, it offers a new typology guiding any future endeavors of incorporating evidence into ToCs.

BackgroundCommunicable diseases represent a huge economic burden for healthcare systems and for society. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a concerning issue, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries, in which environmental factors and other determinants of health play a role in contributing to its fast spread. In light of this situation, machine learning techniques have been explored to assess the incidence of syphilis and contribute to the epidemiological surveillance in this scenario.ObjectiveThe main goal of this work is to evaluate the performance of different machine learning models on predicting undesirable outcomes of congenital syphilis in order to assist resources allocation and optimize the healthcare actions, especially in a constrained health environment.MethodWe use clinical and sociodemographic data from pregnant women that were assisted by a social program in Pernambuco, Brazil, named Mãe Coruja Pernambucana Program (PMCP). Based on a rigorous methodology, we propose six experiments using three feature selection techniques to select the most relevant attributes, pre-process and clean the data, apply hyperparameter optimization to tune the machine learning models, and train and test models to have a fair evaluation and discussion.ResultsThe AdaBoost-BODS-Expert model, an Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost) model that used attributes selected by health experts, presented the best results in terms of evaluation metrics and acceptance by health experts from PMCP. By using this model, the results are more reliable and allows adoption on a daily usage to classify possible outcomes of congenital syphilis using clinical and sociodemographic data.

Background and purposeIn comparison to conventional medical imaging diagnostic modalities, the aim of this overview article is to analyze the accuracy of the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques in the identification and diagnosis of malignant tumors in adult patients.Data sourcesThe acronym PIRDs was used and a comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, Embase, Scielo, EBSCOhost, and grey literature through Proquest, Google Scholar, and JSTOR for systematic reviews of AI as a diagnostic model and/or detection tool for any cancer type in adult patients, compared to the traditional diagnostic radiographic imaging model. There were no limits on publishing status, publication time, or language. For study selection and risk of bias evaluation, pairs of reviewers worked separately.ResultsIn total, 382 records were retrieved in the databases, 364 after removing duplicates, 32 satisfied the full-text reading criterion, and 09 papers were considered for qualitative synthesis. Although there was heterogeneity in terms of methodological aspects, patient differences, and techniques used, the studies found that several AI approaches are promising in terms of specificity, sensitivity, and diagnostic accuracy in the detection and diagnosis of malignant tumors. When compared to other machine learning algorithms, the Super Vector Machine method performed better in cancer detection and diagnosis. Computer-assisted detection (CAD) has shown promising in terms of aiding cancer detection, when compared to the traditional method of diagnosis.ConclusionsThe detection and diagnosis of malignant tumors with the help of AI seems to be feasible and accurate with the use of different technologies, such as CAD systems, deep and machine learning algorithms and radiomic analysis when compared with the traditional model, although these technologies are not capable of to replace the professional radiologist in the analysis of medical images. Although there are limitations regarding the generalization for all types of cancer, these AI tools might aid professionals, serving as an auxiliary and teaching tool, especially for less trained professionals. Therefore, further longitudinal studies with a longer follow-up duration are required for a better understanding of the clinical application of these artificial intelligence systems.Trial registrationSystematic review registration. Prospero registration number: CRD42022307403.

BackgroundTo determine the feasibility and effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in individuals with Parkinson's and their effect on symptom modification and progression.MethodsWe conducted this systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA). All studies were searched in seven databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, Virtual Health Library (VHL) and SCOPUS in September 2020 and updated in June 2023. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane Collaboration tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. We used standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and random effects models, as well as the non-parametric Cochran's Q test and I2 inconsistency test to assess heterogeneity.ResultsA total of 15 randomized clinical trials with 654 participants (mean age, 65.4 years). The majority of studies included high intensity training interventions versus moderate intensity, usual care, or control group. The meta-analysis comparing high-intensity exercise versus control group showed an improvement in the disease severity (MD = -4.80 [95%CI, -6.38; -3.21 high evidence certainty); maximum oxygen consumption (MD = 1.81 [95%CI, 0.36; 3.27] very low evidence certainty) and quality of life (MD = -0.54 [95%CI, -0.94; -0.13] moderate evidence certainty). The results showed that high-intensity exercise compared with moderate intensity exercise group showed a improve motor function and functional mobility measured by the TUG test (MD = -0.38 [95%CI, -0.91; 0.16] moderate evidence certainty) with moderate heterogeneity between studies.ConclusionHigh-intensity exercise performed in both continuous and interval modes when compared with control groups may provide motor function benefits for individuals with Parkinson's disease. HIIT may be feasible, but the intensity of the exercise may influence individuals with Parkinson's disease. However, there was a lack of evidence comparing high intensity and moderate intensity for this population, as the results showed heterogeneity.

Aim: To evaluate in vitro the effect of laser photobiomodulation (PBM) combined or not with 30-nm hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HANp), on the osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) by morphometric analysis using artificial intelligence programs (TensorFlow and ArcGIS). Methods: UC-MSCs were isolated and cultured until 80% confluence was reached. The cells were then plated according to the following experimental groups: G1 –control (DMEM), G2 –BMP-2, G3 –BMP-7, G4 –PBM (660 nm, 10 mW, 2.5 J/cm2, spot size of 0.08 cm2), G5 –HANp, G6 –HANp + PBM, G7 –BMP-2 + PBM, and G8 –BMP-7 + PBM. The MTT assay was used to analyze cell viability at 24, 48 and 72 h. Osteogenic differentiation was assessed by Alizarin Red staining after 7, 14 and 21 days. For morphometric analysis, areas of osteogenic differentiation (pixel2) were delimited by machine learning using the TensorFlow and ArcGIS 10.8 programs. Results: The results of the MTT assay showed high rates of cell viability and proliferation in all groups when compared to control. Morphometric analysis revealed a greater area of osteogenic differentiation in G5 (HANp = 142709,33±36573,39) and G6 (HANp + PBM = 125452,00±24226,95) at all time points evaluated. Conclusion: It is suggested that HANp, whether combined with PBM or not, may be a promising alternative to enhance the cellular viability and osteogenic differentiation of hUC-MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main factors related to the lack of coverage in Health Information Systems are concentrated in the scarce and incipient training of health professionals regarding the collection and typing of data, as well as the importance of using information. The aim of this study was to analyze the perceptions of primary health care professionals from Brazil about the functioning of the Food and Nutritional Monitoring System (SISVAN). Multicentric qualitative study, carried out with 38 health professionals in Basic Health Units (BHU) in five regions around the country. Data collection took place through interviews, which were submitted to content analysis, using the thematic modality. The treatment of the results and interpretation of the themes were carried out using the theoretical framework of the philosopher Michel Foucault. Four themes emerged: (Lack of) knowledge of SISVAN; SISVAN and the conditional income transfer program; Difficulties in the execution and use of SISVAN information; and Strengths. Some of the interviewees recognized the purpose of SISVAN's functioning. The collection of anthropometric data was related to the conditions of the Bolsa Família Program. Ignorance of the system and/or limited perception emerged as obstacles in the operability, use and quality of the data. The participants recognize that professional training is necessary to optimize the strengths of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) employing an annatto-based (20%) dye combined with blue LED for the treatment of halitosis in mouth-breathing children. Materials and methods: Fifty-two children six to twelve years of age with diagnoses of mouth breathing and halitosis (score of ≥ 3 on portable breath meter) Breath Alert™ (Tanita Corporation®-Japan), were randomly allocated to two groups (n = 26). Group 1: brushing, dental floss and aPDT applied to middle third of the dorsum of the tongue. Group 2: brushing, dental floss and tongue scraper. Breath meter results before, immediately after treatment as well as seven and 30 days after treatment were compared. The hypothesis of normality in the data was discarded by the Shapiro-Wilk test (p < 0.05) and for statistical analysis the Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were used. Results: A significant difference was found between the pre-treatment reading and all other readings (p < 0.05) in both groups, suggesting the effectiveness of the proposed treatments. No significant difference was found between the post-treatment reading and two follow-up readings, suggesting the maintenance of the effect of treatment over time (p > 0.05). However, significant differences were found between groups for all post-treatment assessments (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons), indicating greater effectiveness with aPDT. No association was found between the initial reading and the presence of coated tongue. Conclusion: Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy using annatto and blue LED proved to be a viable therapeutic option for the treatment of halitosis in mouth-breathing children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundProviding HIV voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) to men who attend their partner's prenatal care is an intervention with potential to reduce HIV transmission to women and infants during the vulnerable period of pregnancy. Little is known about the acceptability of this intervention in global settings outside of Africa.MethodsWe conducted in-depth qualitative interviews to evaluate potential barriers and facilitators to prenatal care attendance for HIV VCT with 20 men who did and 15 men who did not attend prenatal care with their partners at Hospital Conceiçao in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Men were recruited at the labor and delivery unit at Hospital Conceiçao via a scripted invitation while visiting their newborn infant. Interviews lasted from 35-55 minutes and were conducted in Portuguese by a local resident trained extensively in qualitative methods. All interviews were transcribed verbatim, translated, and then analyzed using Atlast.ti software. An analysis of themes was then conducted using direct quotes and statements. We applied and adapted the AIDS Risk Reduction Theoretical Model and HIV Testing Decisions Model to the qualitative data to identify themes in the 35 interviews.ResultsIf offered HIV testing during prenatal care, all men in both groups stated they would accept this intervention. Yet, individual, relationship and systemic factors were identified that affect these Brazilian men's decision to attend prenatal care, informing our final conceptual model. The men interviewed had a general understanding of the value of HIV prevention of mother to child transmission. They also described open and communicative relationships with their significant others and displayed a high level of enthusiasm towards optimizing the health of their expanding family. The major barriers to attending prenatal care included perceived stigma against HIV infected individuals, men's lack of involvement in planning of the pregnancy as well as inconvenient scheduling of prenatal care, due to conflicting work schedules.ConclusionsBrazilian men displayed high levels of HIV-related knowledge as well as open communication about HIV testing; especially when compared to findings from African studies. Future efforts should reorient prenatal care towards providing care to the entire family with a clear focus on protecting the infant from preventable diseases. Formally inviting men to prenatal care and providing them an acceptable medical excuse from work may enhance male involvement.