Showing papers by "Oswaldo Cruz Foundation published in 2022"
TL;DR: In this article , the impact of age on the effectiveness of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and COVID-19-related hospitalization, ICU admission, and death was analyzed.
46 citations
01 Jul 2022
TL;DR: Cerqueira-Silva T Andrews JR Boaventura VS et al. as discussed by the authors found that vaccination provided additional protection to that induced by past infection during the gamma (P.1) and delta (B.1.2) variant waves of the pandemic in Brazil.
Abstract: As of May 11, 2022, an estimated 519 million individuals have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, and at least 11 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered worldwide. Therefore, understanding hybrid immunity (ie, immunity derived from infection plus vaccination) is crucial to guide future vaccination policies. We found that vaccination provided additional protection to that induced by past infection during the gamma (P.1) and delta (B.1.617.2) variant waves of the pandemic in Brazil.1Cerqueira-Silva T Andrews JR Boaventura VS et al.Effectiveness of CoronaVac, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, BNT162b2, and Ad26.COV2.S among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil: a test-negative, case-control study.Lancet Infect Dis. 2022; (published online March 31.)https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(22)00140-2Summary Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Google Scholar With the emergence of the omicron (B.1.1.529) variant, vaccine effectiveness appears to decay,2Andrews N, Stowe J, Kirsebom F, et al. COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against the omicron (B.1.1.529) variant. N Engl J Med; 386: 1532–46.Google Scholar, 3Stowe J Andrews N Kirsebom F Ramsay M Bernal JL Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against omicron and delta hospitalisation: test negative case-control study.medRxiv. 2022; (published online April 1.) (preprint).https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.04.01.22273281Google Scholar but protection in individuals who have been previously infected and vaccinated remains unknown. We analysed the effect of hybrid immunity in preventing infection and severe outcomes during circulation of the omicron variant in Brazil.Using national databases, we did a test-negative case-control study as previously described.1Cerqueira-Silva T Andrews JR Boaventura VS et al.Effectiveness of CoronaVac, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, BNT162b2, and Ad26.COV2.S among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil: a test-negative, case-control study.Lancet Infect Dis. 2022; (published online March 31.)https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(22)00140-2Summary Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Google Scholar Cases were defined as individuals with positive RT-PCR or lateral-flow tests and controls as individuals with negative RT-PCT or lateral-flow tests between Jan 1 and March 22, 2022—a period during which omicron was the predominant variant in Brazil (appendix pp 2–4). Severe outcomes were defined as a positive test obtained from 14 days before to 3 days after hospital admission or death occurring within 28 days after a positive test. We analysed vaccine effectiveness in individuals who had been previously infected using two references groups: unvaccinated with or without previous infection. Individuals could have more than one test included in these analyses, and each test was separately counted as a case or control. Detailed methods, including full inclusion and exclusion criteria, are in the appendix (p 2).Of 9 266 235 tests from 8 471 561 individuals registered on surveillance databases during the study period, 918 219 tests from 899 050 individuals were eligible for inclusion in our analyses. 476 901 (51·9%) of 918 219 tests from 468 804 (52·1%) of 899 050 individuals were positive and defined as cases, and 441 318 (48·1%) tests from 430 246 (47·9%) individuals were negative and defined as controls; 323 704 (35·2%) tests were from individuals who were unvaccinated (22 935 [2·4%] with and 300 769 [32·8%] without previous infection; appendix pp 6–7). Compared with those who were unvaccinated without previous infection, the effectiveness of past infection in preventing reinfection during the omicron wave was low (28·9% [95% CI 26·9–30·9]), increasing with vaccination with any vaccine type (Ad26.COV2.S [Johnson & Johnson], BNT162b2 [Pfizer–BioNTech], ChAdOx-1 nCoV-19 [Oxford–AstraZeneca], or CoronaVac [Sinovac Biotech]), especially after a booster dose, although this protection waned over time (appendix pp 5,8). Protection against severe outcomes after a previous infection was relatively high (85·6% [95% CI 82·7–88·0]), increasing with vaccination (vaccine effectiveness ranging from 88·0% to 100%; appendix pp 5, 8). Compared with unvaccinated individuals with a previous infection, vaccination with previous infection showed a moderate increase in protection against symptomatic infection ranging from 7·3% (95% CI 4·0–10·4) to 62·7% (61·0–64·3), once again waning over time, and substantial protection against severe outcomes after the booster (appendix pp 5, 8–9). Similar results were obtained using a matched analysis by date of test (within 10 days), age (5-year bands), municipality of residence, and sex in a ratio of 1:2 (with replacement; appendix pp 10–12).In summary, during a period when omicron was the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant in Brazil, robust protection against severe disease was offered by a previous infection, and this was increased with hybrid immunity. However, against symptomatic infection, even boosted individuals with hybrid immunity had low levels of protection and protection waned over time. Booster doses in previously infected individuals offered a moderate but transient increase in protection against symptomatic infection and a slight improvement against severe outcomes. These data highlight an issue of whether future efforts should focus on preventing symptomatic infection or severe disease, considering the moderate and transient increase in protection offered by boosters against symptomatic infection and the likely endemicity of SARS-CoV-2.MB-N reports grants from the Fazer o bem faz bem programme from JBS. VdAO, VSB, MLB, and MB-N are employees of Fiocruz, a federal public institution, which manufactures Vaxzevria in Brazil, through a full technology transfer agreement with AstraZeneca. Fiocruz allocates all its manufactured products to the Ministry of Health for public health use. ESP is funded by the Wellcome Trust (grant number 213589/Z/18/Z). GLW is funded by the Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (grant number E-26/210.180/2020). GLW, MLB, VSB, and MB-N are research fellows from CNPq, the Brazilian National Research Council. All other authors declare no competing interests. As of May 11, 2022, an estimated 519 million individuals have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, and at least 11 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered worldwide. Therefore, understanding hybrid immunity (ie, immunity derived from infection plus vaccination) is crucial to guide future vaccination policies. We found that vaccination provided additional protection to that induced by past infection during the gamma (P.1) and delta (B.1.617.2) variant waves of the pandemic in Brazil.1Cerqueira-Silva T Andrews JR Boaventura VS et al.Effectiveness of CoronaVac, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, BNT162b2, and Ad26.COV2.S among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil: a test-negative, case-control study.Lancet Infect Dis. 2022; (published online March 31.)https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(22)00140-2Summary Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Google Scholar With the emergence of the omicron (B.1.1.529) variant, vaccine effectiveness appears to decay,2Andrews N, Stowe J, Kirsebom F, et al. COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against the omicron (B.1.1.529) variant. N Engl J Med; 386: 1532–46.Google Scholar, 3Stowe J Andrews N Kirsebom F Ramsay M Bernal JL Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against omicron and delta hospitalisation: test negative case-control study.medRxiv. 2022; (published online April 1.) (preprint).https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.04.01.22273281Google Scholar but protection in individuals who have been previously infected and vaccinated remains unknown. We analysed the effect of hybrid immunity in preventing infection and severe outcomes during circulation of the omicron variant in Brazil. Using national databases, we did a test-negative case-control study as previously described.1Cerqueira-Silva T Andrews JR Boaventura VS et al.Effectiveness of CoronaVac, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, BNT162b2, and Ad26.COV2.S among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil: a test-negative, case-control study.Lancet Infect Dis. 2022; (published online March 31.)https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(22)00140-2Summary Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Google Scholar Cases were defined as individuals with positive RT-PCR or lateral-flow tests and controls as individuals with negative RT-PCT or lateral-flow tests between Jan 1 and March 22, 2022—a period during which omicron was the predominant variant in Brazil (appendix pp 2–4). Severe outcomes were defined as a positive test obtained from 14 days before to 3 days after hospital admission or death occurring within 28 days after a positive test. We analysed vaccine effectiveness in individuals who had been previously infected using two references groups: unvaccinated with or without previous infection. Individuals could have more than one test included in these analyses, and each test was separately counted as a case or control. Detailed methods, including full inclusion and exclusion criteria, are in the appendix (p 2). Of 9 266 235 tests from 8 471 561 individuals registered on surveillance databases during the study period, 918 219 tests from 899 050 individuals were eligible for inclusion in our analyses. 476 901 (51·9%) of 918 219 tests from 468 804 (52·1%) of 899 050 individuals were positive and defined as cases, and 441 318 (48·1%) tests from 430 246 (47·9%) individuals were negative and defined as controls; 323 704 (35·2%) tests were from individuals who were unvaccinated (22 935 [2·4%] with and 300 769 [32·8%] without previous infection; appendix pp 6–7). Compared with those who were unvaccinated without previous infection, the effectiveness of past infection in preventing reinfection during the omicron wave was low (28·9% [95% CI 26·9–30·9]), increasing with vaccination with any vaccine type (Ad26.COV2.S [Johnson & Johnson], BNT162b2 [Pfizer–BioNTech], ChAdOx-1 nCoV-19 [Oxford–AstraZeneca], or CoronaVac [Sinovac Biotech]), especially after a booster dose, although this protection waned over time (appendix pp 5,8). Protection against severe outcomes after a previous infection was relatively high (85·6% [95% CI 82·7–88·0]), increasing with vaccination (vaccine effectiveness ranging from 88·0% to 100%; appendix pp 5, 8). Compared with unvaccinated individuals with a previous infection, vaccination with previous infection showed a moderate increase in protection against symptomatic infection ranging from 7·3% (95% CI 4·0–10·4) to 62·7% (61·0–64·3), once again waning over time, and substantial protection against severe outcomes after the booster (appendix pp 5, 8–9). Similar results were obtained using a matched analysis by date of test (within 10 days), age (5-year bands), municipality of residence, and sex in a ratio of 1:2 (with replacement; appendix pp 10–12). In summary, during a period when omicron was the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant in Brazil, robust protection against severe disease was offered by a previous infection, and this was increased with hybrid immunity. However, against symptomatic infection, even boosted individuals with hybrid immunity had low levels of protection and protection waned over time. Booster doses in previously infected individuals offered a moderate but transient increase in protection against symptomatic infection and a slight improvement against severe outcomes. These data highlight an issue of whether future efforts should focus on preventing symptomatic infection or severe disease, considering the moderate and transient increase in protection offered by boosters against symptomatic infection and the likely endemicity of SARS-CoV-2. MB-N reports grants from the Fazer o bem faz bem programme from JBS. VdAO, VSB, MLB, and MB-N are employees of Fiocruz, a federal public institution, which manufactures Vaxzevria in Brazil, through a full technology transfer agreement with AstraZeneca. Fiocruz allocates all its manufactured products to the Ministry of Health for public health use. ESP is funded by the Wellcome Trust (grant number 213589/Z/18/Z). GLW is funded by the Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (grant number E-26/210.180/2020). GLW, MLB, VSB, and MB-N are research fellows from CNPq, the Brazilian National Research Council. All other authors declare no competing interests. Supplementary Material Download .pdf (.57 MB) Help with pdf files Supplementary appendix Download .pdf (.57 MB) Help with pdf files Supplementary appendix Effectiveness of CoronaVac, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, BNT162b2, and Ad26.COV2.S among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil: a test-negative, case-control studyAll four vaccines conferred additional protection against symptomatic infections and severe outcomes among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. The provision of a full vaccine series to individuals after recovery from COVID-19 might reduce morbidity and mortality. Full-Text PDF
20 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present two studies that by using a Resilience Engineering approach aimed to predict the functioning of the Brazilian Mobile Emergency Medical Service (SAMU) for riverside and coastal areas during the COVID-19 pandemic, based on the normal system functioning.
18 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the plasma levels of the immunoregulatory neuropeptide VIP are elevated in patients with severe COVID-19, correlating with reduced inflammatory mediators and with survival on those patients.
Abstract: Infection by SARS-CoV-2 may elicit uncontrolled and damaging inflammatory responses. Thus, it is critical to identify compounds able to inhibit virus replication and thwart the inflammatory reaction. Here, we show that the plasma levels of the immunoregulatory neuropeptide VIP are elevated in patients with severe COVID-19, correlating with reduced inflammatory mediators and with survival on those patients. In vitro, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), highly similar neuropeptides, decreased the SARS-CoV-2 RNA content in human monocytes and viral production in lung epithelial cells, also reducing cell death. Both neuropeptides inhibited the production of proinflammatory mediators in lung epithelial cells and in monocytes. VIP and PACAP prevented in monocytes the SARS-CoV-2-induced activation of NF-kB and SREBP1 and SREBP2, transcriptions factors involved in proinflammatory reactions and lipid metabolism, respectively. They also promoted CREB activation, a transcription factor with antiapoptotic activity and negative regulator of NF-kB. Specific inhibition of NF-kB and SREBP1/2 reproduced the anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and cell death protection effects of VIP and PACAP. Our results support further clinical investigations of these neuropeptides against COVID-19.
13 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the effects of metformin separately and associated with fluoxetine on depressive like-behavior and motor alterations in experimental Parkinson's disease were evaluated in C57BL6 mice.
13 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a case of prolonged COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Gamma variant in a fully vaccinated healthcare worker, 387 days after an infection caused by lineage B.1.33.
10 citations
TL;DR: In this article , the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of action of mefloquine was investigated in cells relevant for the physiopathology of COVID-19, such as Calu-3 cells and monocytes.
Abstract: Despite the development of specific therapies against severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the continuous investigation of the mechanism of action of clinically approved drugs could provide new information on the druggable steps of virus–host interaction. For example, chloroquine (CQ)/hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) lacks in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2 in TMPRSS2-expressing cells, such as human pneumocyte cell line Calu-3, and likewise, failed to show clinical benefit in the Solidarity and Recovery clinical trials. Another antimalarial drug, mefloquine, which is not a 4-aminoquinoline like CQ/HCQ, has emerged as a potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 antiviral in vitro and has also been previously repurposed for respiratory diseases. Here, we investigated the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of action of mefloquine in cells relevant for the physiopathology of COVID-19, such as Calu-3 cells (that recapitulate type II pneumocytes) and monocytes. Molecular pathways modulated by mefloquine were assessed by differential expression analysis, and confirmed by biological assays. A PBPK model was developed to assess mefloquine’s optimal doses for achieving therapeutic concentrations. Mefloquine inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in Calu-3, with an EC50 of 1.2 µM and EC90 of 5.3 µM. It reduced SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels in monocytes and prevented virus-induced enhancement of IL-6 and TNF-α. Mefloquine reduced SARS-CoV-2 entry and synergized with Remdesivir. Mefloquine’s pharmacological parameters are consistent with its plasma exposure in humans and its tissue-to-plasma predicted coefficient points suggesting that mefloquine may accumulate in the lungs. Altogether, our data indicate that mefloquine’s chemical structure could represent an orally available host-acting agent to inhibit virus entry.
8 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated the associations of antioxidants (vitamin A, C and E, and selenium and zinc) and vitamin B complex (B6, folate and B12) intake with depression in 14,737 subjects.
8 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the consequences of social inequalities on children's health are described as a global and persistent problem, demonstrating its historical and structural roots in different societies, demonstrating that the non-equitable way in which many families or social groups live, determined by social and economic inequalities, produces unequal health outcomes.
Abstract: To describe the consequences of social inequalities on children's health as a global and persistent problem, demonstrating its historical and structural roots in different societies. Relevant articles in the PubMed/MEDLINE database, in addition to those found in a manual search and in the bibliographic references of selected studies and consultation to the websites of international organizations to obtain relevant data and documents. To understand how inequities affect health, it is necessary to know the unequal distribution of their social determinants among population groups. In the case of children, the parental pathway of determinants is central. The non-equitable way in which many families or social groups live, determined by social and economic inequalities, produces unequal health outcomes, particularly for children. This is observed between and within countries. Children from the most vulnerable population groups consistently have worse health conditions. Interventions aimed at children's health must go beyond care and act in an integrated manner on poverty and on social and economic inequalities, aiming to end systematic and unfair differences. Despite the considerable advances observed in children's health in recent decades at a global level, the inequalities measured by different indicators show that they persist. This scenario deserves attention from researchers and decision-makers, especially in the context of the global health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has further intensified the situation of vulnerability and social inequalities in health around the world.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this article , the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, personal protection equipment (PPE) shortages and occurrence of biological accidents among front-line healthcare workers (HCW).
Abstract: Objectives We assessed the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages and occurrence of biological accidents among front-line healthcare workers (HCW). Design, setting and participants Using respondent-driven sampling, the study recruited distinct categories of HCW attending suspected or confirmed patients with COVID-19 from May 2020 to February 2021, in the Recife metropolitan area, Northeast Brazil. Outcome measures The criterion to assess SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCW was a positive self-reported PCR test. Results We analysed 1525 HCW: 527 physicians, 471 registered nurses, 263 nursing assistants and 264 physical therapists. Women predominated in all categories (81.1%; 95% CI: 77.8% to 84.1%). Nurses were older with more comorbidities (hypertension and overweight/obesity) than the other staff. The overall prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was 61.8% (95% CI: 55.7% to 67.5%) after adjustment for the cluster random effect, weighted by network, and the reference population size. Risk factors for a positive RT-PCR test were being a nursing assistant (OR adjusted: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.42 to 4.61), not always using all recommended PPE while assisting patients with COVID-19 (OR adj: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.02 to 4.53) and reporting a splash of biological fluid/respiratory secretion in the eyes (OR adj: 3.37; 95% CI: 1.10 to 10.34). Conclusions This study shows the high frequency of SARS-CoV2 infection among HCW presumably due to workplace exposures. In our setting, nursing assistant comprised the most vulnerable category. Our findings highlight the need for improving healthcare facility environments, specific training and supervision to cope with public health emergencies.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this article , a population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Porto de Galinhas, state of Pernambuco, Brazil, to investigate the dynamics of schistosomiasis transmission in the urban area.
TL;DR: In this paper, Bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMC) transplantation has an anti-inflammatory effect and has proven effective in restoring non-depressive behavior, which is associated with chronic inflammation and deficient production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Abstract: Introduction Major depressive disorder is associated with chronic inflammation and deficient production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMC) transplantation has an anti-inflammatory effect and has been proven effective in restoring non-depressive behavior. This study investigated whether BMMC transplantation can prevent the development of depression or anxiety in chronic mild stress (CMS), as well as its effect on inflammatory and neurogenic molecules. Method Three groups of animals were compared: BMMC-transplanted animals subjected to CMS for 45 days, CMS non-transplanted rats, and control animals. After the CMS period, the three groups underwent the following behavioral tests: sucrose preference test (SPT), eating-related depression test (ERDT), social avoidance test (SAT), social interaction test (SIT), and elevated plus maze test (EPMT). Transplanted cell tracking and measurement of the expression of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), and BDNF were performed on brain and spleen tissues. Results BMMC transplantation prevented the effects of CMS in the SPT, ERDT, SAT, and SIT, while prevention was less pronounced in the EPMT. It was found to prevent increased HMGB-1 expression induced by CMS in the hippocampus and spleen, increase BDNF expression in both tissues, and prevent increased IL-1β expression in the hippocampus alone, while no effect of the transplant was observed in the TNFα expression. In addition, no transplanted cells were found in either the brain or spleen. Conclusions BMMC transplantation prevents the development of depression and anxiety-like behavior triggered by CMS. It could prevent increased HMGB-1 and IL-1β expression in the hippocampus and increased BDNF expression in the same tissue. Cell treatment represents a further perspective in the research and treatment of depression and possible mood disorders.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors report a significant modulation of the expression of a large set of sensory-related genes in Rhodnius prolixus during the first two days after ecdysis.
TL;DR: In this paper, the larvicidal activity of crude extracts of ethyl acetate, methanol and hexane from flowers and fruits of Mormodica charantia against Aedes aegypti (Culicidae) was evaluated.
Abstract: Mormodica charantia (Curcubitaceae) is a plant with great medicinal potential, also used as an alternative of mosquitoes control as demonstrated by previous studies. We evaluated the larvicidal activity of crude extracts of ethyl acetate, methanol and hexane from flowers and fruits of M. charantia against Aedes aegypti (Culicidae). Flowers and fruits were macerated in methanol, ethyl acetate and hexane. Bioassays were performed with application of the extracts at final concentrations of 1 - 200 µg/mL in the middle of the third instar larvae of A. aegypti (L3). The results showed high toxicity to ethyl acetate extracts from flowers and fruits at concentrations of 200 µg/mL and 100 µg/mL, with 97% and 87% of larvae mortality (L3), respectively. Hexane extract demonstrated low toxicity, while methanol extract exhibited 78% larval mortality. The data suggested that the ethyl acetate extracts of flowers and fruits of M. charantia can effectively contribute to larvicidal activity. In addition, purification of M. charantia extracts may lead to a promising larvicidal activity to control the A. aegypti population.
TL;DR: The first outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.7 lineage in Italy was reported in Lombardy in January 2019 as mentioned in this paper, where 21 cases of this variant were identified in Corzano.
Abstract: In December 2020, Italy experienced the first case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) B.1.1.7 lineage. In January 2021, we identified 21 cases of this variant in Corzano, defining the first outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage in Italy. The high transmissibility of the B.1.1.7 variant represented an important benefit for the virus, which became rapidly dominant on the territory. Containment measures induced the epidemic curve onto a decreasing trajectory underlining the importance of appropriate control and surveillance for restraint of virus spread. Highlights The first Italian outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage occurred in Lombardy in January 2021. The outbreak originated by a single introduction of the B.1.1.7 lineage. The genomic sequencing revealed, for the first time, the presence of the V551F mutation in the B.1.1.7 lineage in Italy. Surveillance, prompt sequencing and tracing efforts were fundamental to identify and to quickly contain the outbreak.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated the role of triatoma in transmitting T. cruzi to dogs and humans in the district of Santo Inacio, located in the northwest region of the state of Bahia, Brazil.
TL;DR: In this article, the antileishmanial effect of thiohydantoins against leishmania amazonensis was investigated and the main processes involved in parasite death were determined, and it was shown that thio hydantoin nuclei inhibited the proliferation of promastigotes.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors analyze the health conducts for combating the Spanish flu and its relationship with the COVID-19 pandemic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by analyzing articles published in Revista da Semana.
Abstract: Objective: to analyze the health conducts for combating the Spanish flu and its relationship with the COVID-19 pandemic in Rio de Janeiro. Methods: study from the perspective of microhistory, with analysis of articles published in Revista da Semana on the Spanish flu, having as criteria publications with the term "epidemic" referring to the Spanish flu or influenza in the period of the epidemic outbreak in Rio de Janeiro, Federal District. Results: 18 records, organized in three thematic axes: political, 4; social, 11; care, 3, were found. Final considerations: the lessons left by the Spanish flu epidemic in coronavirus times will be changes in the political, social and care field as marks of major epidemics.
TL;DR: In this article , a mathematical function is proposed to simultaneously model the healthy and faulty conditions of each switch, thus enabling a unique model of the system, which is then used in an original fault-tolerant strategy based upon the peak current control with slope compensation.
Abstract: Interleaved converters use an increased number of power electronics switches; this may subsequently affect their reliability. However, this is an opportunity to develop fault-tolerant strategies to improve their reliability and to ensure continuity of service. This is why we herein propose, for the first time, a mathematical function to simultaneously model the healthy and faulty conditions of each switch, thus enabling a unique model of the system. This model is then used in an original fault-tolerant strategy based upon the peak current control with slope compensation. This method not only extends the stable range of the load variation but also ensures the stability in faulty conditions. Finally, the simulation results validate its effectiveness and confirm the theoretical analysis.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors used Cox proportional hazard regression models to calculate the crude and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for the association between maternal race and skin colour and all-cause and cause-specific younger than age 5 mortality rates, by age subgroups.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated antimicrobial resistance in Gram negative bacteria from a river system in a rural community in Bahia, Brazil and found that ruminant and human fecal contamination increased as the rivers neared the village center and decreased after the last residence.
Abstract: Use of antibiotics inevitably leads to antimicrobial resistance. Selection for resistance occurs primarily within the gut of humans and animals as well as in the environment through natural resistance and residual antibiotics in streams and soil. We evaluated antimicrobial resistance in Gram negative bacteria from a river system in a rural community in Bahia, Brazil. Water was collected from the Jiquirica and Brejoes rivers and the piped water supply. Additionally, stools were collected from a random sample of residents, cows, pigs and horses near the river. The samples were screened for bacteria resistant to ciprofloxacin, cefotaxime, and meropenem and identified biochemically at the genus and species levels. Microbial source tracking demonstrated that ruminant and human fecal contamination increased as the rivers neared the village center and decreased after the last residence. Antibiotic bacteria were identified from all samples (n = 32). No bacteria were resistant to carbapenems, but the majority of the enterobacteria were resistant to ciprofloxacin, even though this class of antibiotics is not commonly used in food animals in this region. Considering these facts, together with the pattern of human fecal contamination, a human source was considered most likely for these resistant isolates.
TL;DR: The Hen's Egg Test -Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) is a valid alternative method used to assess the potential for eye irritation from chemicals as discussed by the authors.
TL;DR: In this paper , leachate samples from waste collection trucks and a landfill were collected from March to December 2019 in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and were analyzed for Human Adenovirus (HAdV), bacterial indicators and physico-chemical parameters.
World Health Organization1, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation2, University of Amsterdam3, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven4, University of Medicine and Health Sciences5, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia6, McMaster University7, Fundação Getúlio Vargas8, AmeriCorps VISTA9, United Arab Emirates University10, Aarhus University11, The Graduate Center, CUNY12, Ryerson University13
TL;DR: In this article, the assessor burden, inter-rater agreement, and user experience of the RoB-SPEO tool were investigated, based on the abovementioned WHO/ILO systematic reviews.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors performed the genomic characterization and comparative analysis of an Acinetobacter baumannii (strain Ac56) belonging to the sequence type ST374, which was isolated for the first time in Brazil, in 1996.
TL;DR: Azathioprine-induced pancreatitis (AIP) is a common, idiosyncratic adverse effect whose incidence and risk factors data in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are not fully clarified as discussed by the authors .
Abstract: Azathioprine (AZA)-induced pancreatitis (AIP) is a common, idiosyncratic adverse effect whose incidence and risk factors data in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are not fully clarified. We aimed to establish the incidence, clinical course and identify risk factors for AIP.A retrospective study including all IBD patients on AZA between January 2013 and July 2020 was conducted. Patients with AIP were considered.Azathioprine-induced pancreatitis occurred in 33 patients (7.5%; 442 patients on AZA). The mean time receiving AZA until AIP was 25 days, with a mean dose of 88 mg. All patients had a mild course of disease, which resolved with suspension of AZA and with no complications. Smoking (P = 0.02), single daily dose of AZA (P < 0.001), and concomitant budesonide (P = 0.001) were risk factors for AIP. In multivariate analysis, concomitant treatment with budesonide (odds ratio, 5.3; P = 0.002) and single daily dose of AZA (odds ratio, 3.8; P = 0.002) were the only predictors of AIP.Although AIP was a relatively common adverse effect, it presented a mild course in all patients. Smoking, concomitant use of budesonide, and single-dose regimen of AZA should be avoided in IBD patients treated with AZA.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated tick fauna and identified the possible presence of Rickettsia spp. in ticks of the genus Amblyomma from two environmental preservation areas in different regions of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil.
TL;DR: In this paper , the characteristics of the main purinergic receptor subtypes present in the immune system, focusing on the P2 family, are reviewed and the physiologic roles of these receptors already identified in leukocytes and how they can positively or negatively modulate the development of infectious diseases, inflammation and pain.
Abstract: Abstract Since their discovery in the 1970s, purinergic receptors have been shown to play key roles in a wide variety of biologic systems and cell types. In the immune system, purinergic receptors participate in innate immunity and in the modulation of the adaptive immune response. In particular, P2 receptors, which respond to extracellular nucleotides, are widely expressed on leukocytes, causing the release of cytokines and chemokines and the formation of inflammatory mediators, and inducing phagocytosis, degranulation, and cell death. The activity of these receptors is regulated by ectonucleotidases—expressed in these same cell types—which regulate the availability of nucleotides in the extracellular environment. In this article, we review the characteristics of the main purinergic receptor subtypes present in the immune system, focusing on the P2 family. In addition, we describe the physiologic roles of the P2 receptors already identified in leukocytes and how they can positively or negatively modulate the development of infectious diseases, inflammation, and pain.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors examined the association between living arrangements and exposure to and testing for COVID-19 among 63,816 Brazilians aged 60 years and older, and found that older adults in multigenerational and skipped generation households were more likely than solo-dwellers to test positive.
Abstract: Brazil is among the countries hit hardest by COVID-19, and older adults are among the vulnerable groups. Intergenerational coresidence and interdependence among family members, both prevalent in Brazil, likely increase social and physical contact and thus potential infection.Using nationally representative data from the COVID-19 module of the Brazilian National Household Sample Survey (Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios), collected between July and November of 2020, we examined the association between living arrangements and exposure to and testing for COVID-19 among 63,816 Brazilians aged 60 years and older. We examine whether living arrangements influence self-reported COVID-19 symptoms as an indicator of subjective health assessment, testing as an indicator of health care service use, and a positive COVID-19 test result as an objective indicator of exposure to the disease.Living arrangements shape older adults' vulnerabilities to COVID-19 exposure and testing. Specifically, those living alone were more likely to report having symptoms and having had a test for COVID-19. However, older adults in multigenerational and skipped generation households were more likely than solo-dwellers to test positive for COVID-19. Those with symptoms were more likely to test, regardless of their living arrangement. Among older adults without symptoms, those living alone had a higher probability of testing than those living in multigenerational or skipped-generation households.Overall, our findings suggest that coresidence with younger family members puts older adults' health at risk in the context of COVID-19. As younger Brazilians are increasingly vulnerable to COVID-19 and experiencing severe outcomes, policy makers need to be more attentive to the health needs of households that comprise older and younger cohorts, which are also more prevalent in poor and marginalized segments of the population.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated elemental contamination in commercially marketed and highly consumed Perna perna samples from the highly impacted Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Abstract: Perna perna mussels, abundant throughout the Brazilian coast, are routinely applied as bioindicators in environmental monitoring actions due to their sessile and filter-feeding characteristics. In addition, they are noteworthy for their food importance, especially for coastal populations. In this context, the aim of this study was to investigate elemental contamination in commercially marketed and highly consumed P. perna samples from the highly impacted Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 30 mussels were sampled, and elemental concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn) were determined in adductor muscle samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Human consumption risks were assessed by comparisons to Brazilian and international legislations. No significant differences between sex were observed for all analyzed elements. Even when analyzing only the adductor muscle, all mussel samples exceeded the Brazilian limit for Cr, while 12 samples exceeded the limit for Se. When compared to other regulatory agencies, As and Zn levels were higher than the limits set by China, New Zealand, and the USA. Estimated daily dietary intake values were not above limits imposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization for any of the assessed elements, although it is important to note that only the adductor muscle was assessed. Therefore, continuous metal and metalloid monitoring in bivalves in the study region is suggested, as metal transport and bioavailability, especially in coastal estuaries such as Guanabara Bay, which are currently undergoing significant changes due to anthropogenic activities.