Abstract Background Evidence indicates a strong link between Zika virus (ZikV) and neurological complications. Acute myelitis, optic neuritis, polyneuropathy, and encephalomyelitis that mimic inflammatory idiopathic demyelination disorders (HDD) after ZikV infection have been reported in Brazil. Objective The present study aims to investigate the possible occurrence of molecular mimicry between ZikV antigens and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) autoantigens, the most frequent HDD of the central nervous system (CNS). Methods A retrospective cohort study with 305 patients admitted due to suspected arbovirus infection in Rio de Janeiro was performed, all subjects were submitted to neurological examination, and a biological sample was collected for serologic and molecular diagnostic. Bioinformatics tools were used to analyze the peptides shared between ZikV antigens and MS autoantigens. Results Of 305 patients, twenty-six were positive for ZikV and 4 presented IDD patterns found in MS cases. Sequence homology comparisons by bioinformatics approach between NS5 ZikV and PLP MS protein revealed a homology of 5/6 consecutive amino acids (CSSVPV/CSAVPV) with 83% identity, deducing a molecular mimicry. Analysis of the 3D structures revealed a similar conformation with alpha helix presentation. Conclusions Molecular mimicry between NS5 Zika virus antigen and PLP MS autoantigens emerge as a possible mechanism for IDD spectrum in genetically susceptible individuals.

Resumo Antecedentes Evidências indicam uma forte ligação entre o vírus Zika (ZikV) e complicações neurológicas. Mielite aguda, neurite óptica, polineuropatia e encefalomielite que mimetizam distúrbios inflamatórios de desmielinização idiopáticos (DDII) após infecção por ZikV têm sido relatadas no Brasil. Obejtivo O presente estudo tem como objetivo investigar a possível ocorrência de mimetismo molecular entre antígenos do ZikV e autoantígenos da Esclerose Múltipla (EM), a DDII mais frequente do sistema nervoso central (SNC). Métodos Foi realizado um estudo de coorte retrospectivo com 305 pacientes internados por suspeita de infecção por arbovirus no Rio de Janeiro, todos os indivíduos foram submetidos a exame neurológico e coleta de amostra biológica para diagnóstico sorológico e molecular. Ferramentas de bioinformática foram usadas para analisar os peptídeos compartilhados entre antígenos do ZikV e autoantígenos da EM. Resultados Dos 305 pacientes, vinte e seis foram positivos para ZikV e 4 apresentaram padrão IDD encontrado em casos de EM. As comparações de homologia de sequência por abordagem de bioinformática entre a proteína NS5 ZikV e PLP EM revelaram uma homologia de 5/6 aminoácidos consecutivos (CSSVPV/CSAVPV) com 83% de identidade, deduzindo um mimetismo molecular. A análise das estruturas 3D revelou uma conformação semelhante com apresentação em alfa-hélice. Conclusões O mimetismo molecular entre o antígeno NS5 do vírus Zika e o autoantígeno PLP da EM surge como um possível mecanismo para o espectro IDD em indivíduos geneticamente suscetíveis.

ABSTRACT Background: The wood heat treatment results in the partial degradation of its chemical constituents, mainly cellulose and hemicellulose, reducing the hygroscopicity of the material. This process improves the dimensional stability and resistance to biodeterioration and worsens the mechanical resistance. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of heat treatment on the physical, anatomical, chemical, and mechanical properties of Fraxinus excelsior wood. In untreated and heat-treated wood, the pH, buffering capacity, basic density, equilibrium moisture content, shrinkage, wood anatomy, thermogravimetric behavior, and chemistry by conventional and FTIR methods were determined. Results: Heat treated wood had lower pH (5.50), equilibrium moisture content (6.26%), shrinkage (7,29%), holocellulose contents (55,96%) and higher buffering capacity (0,479 mmol/L), extractives (8,25%), and lignin contents (35,78%). Heat treatment reduced the pH and increased the buffering capacity of the wood, reduced the holocellulose content, and increased the lignin content, leaving the wood less hygroscopic and reducing its volumetric and linear variation. The process did not change the basic density and fiber length, but it reduced their width, lumen diameter, and wall thickness. The FTIR analysis confirmed the degradation of holocellulose and division of aliphatic side chains in lignin. The maximum dredging range of untreated and heat-treated wood occurred at 350 ºC, and the heat-treated wood had a higher residual mass when subjected to 500 ºC. Conclusion: Heat-treated wood can be indicated for products used in external environments, such as floors, fences, coatings, door and window structures.

BACKGROUND Leprosy is curable by multidrug therapy (MDT) treatment regimen ranging from six to 12 months. The variable levels of tolerance and adherence among patients can, however, result in treatment failure and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. OBJECTIVES Describe the impact of MDT over Mycobacterium leprae viability in patient’s oral and nasal mucosa along treatment. METHODS Mycobacterium leprae viability was monitored by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) quantification of 16S rRNA in lateral and contralateral scrapings of oral and nasal mucosa of 10 multibacillary patients along the initial five months of treatment. FINDINGS The results demonstrated high heterogenicity of M. leprae viability among patients and between nasal and oral samples. Of six patients who presented good adherence and tolerance to the treatment, only four displayed absence of M. leprae viability in both samples three months after the first MDT dose, while for the other two, the absence of M. leprae viability in the oral and nasal cavities was only detected five months after the first dose. MAIN CONCLUSIONS We concluded that qPCR of 16S rRNA for the determination of M. leprae viability in nasal and oral scraping samples could represent an interesting approach to monitor treatment efficacy.

RESUMO: Introdução: A ingestão de bebidas açucaradas varia de acordo com as características da população. Objetivos: Investigar o consumo de bebidas açucaradas e os fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos e de estilo de vida associados ao seu consumo em adolescentes, adultos e idosos residentes em São Paulo. Métodos: Foram utilizados dados do Inquérito de Saúde de São Paulo, estudo transversal de base populacional, incluindo 1.662 indivíduos com 12 anos ou mais. As bebidas açucaradas foram classificadas em seis grupos: refrigerantes, cafés e chás adoçados, leite e produtos lácteos adoçados, sucos de fruta natural adoçados, sucos de fruta artificial adoçados e bebidas açucaradas totais. A associação de cada grupo com variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e de estilo de vida foi determinada por meio de modelos de regressão linear. Resultados: A ingestão média de bebidas açucaradas foi 668,4 mL em adolescentes, 502,6 mL em adultos e 358,2 mL em idosos. Refrigerantes e cafés e chás adoçados foram os grupos com a maior contribuição para a ingestão energética. O consumo de bebidas açucaradas foi menor entre as mulheres e maior entre os adolescentes com excesso de peso, entre adultos suficientemente ativos e entre os idosos de menor renda familiar per capita. O consumo de bebidas açucaradas foi elevado, particularmente entre adolescentes. Políticas públicas são necessárias a fim de reduzir o consumo dessas bebidas. Conclusão: Faixa etária, sexo, renda familiar per capita e índice de massa corporal foram associadas ao consumo de bebidas açucaradas.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: The intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) varies according to the characteristics of the population. Objective: To investigate the SSB intake and demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors associated with its consumption in adolescents, adults, and older adults in São Paulo. Methods: Data were drawn from the Health Survey of São Paulo, a cross-sectional population-based study including 1,662 individuals aged 12 years or more. SSB were classified into six groups: sugar-sweetened sodas, sweetened coffee and tea, sweetened milk and dairy products, sweetened fruit juice, sweetened fruit drink, and total SSB. The association of each group with demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle variables was assessed using linear regression models. Results: The mean SSB intake was 668.4 mL in adolescents, 502.6 mL in adults, and 358.2 mL in elderly adults. Sodas and sweetened coffee and tea represented had the greatest contribution to energy intake. SSB consumption was lower among female sex and higher among overweight adolescents, among sufficiently active adults, and among lower household per capita income older adults. Consumption of SSB was high, particularly among adolescents. Public policies are required in order to decrease the consumption of these beverages. Conclusion: Age group, sex, household per capita income, and body mass index status were associated with SSB intake.

RESUMO: Introdução: A ingestão de bebidas açucaradas varia de acordo com as características da população. Objetivos: Investigar o consumo de bebidas açucaradas e os fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos e de estilo de vida associados ao seu consumo em adolescentes, adultos e idosos residentes em São Paulo. Métodos: Foram utilizados dados do Inquérito de Saúde de São Paulo, estudo transversal de base populacional, incluindo 1.662 indivíduos com 12 anos ou mais. As bebidas açucaradas foram classificadas em seis grupos: refrigerantes, cafés e chás adoçados, leite e produtos lácteos adoçados, sucos de fruta natural adoçados, sucos de fruta artificial adoçados e bebidas açucaradas totais. A associação de cada grupo com variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e de estilo de vida foi determinada por meio de modelos de regressão linear. Resultados: A ingestão média de bebidas açucaradas foi 668,4 mL em adolescentes, 502,6 mL em adultos e 358,2 mL em idosos. Refrigerantes e cafés e chás adoçados foram os grupos com a maior contribuição para a ingestão energética. O consumo de bebidas açucaradas foi menor entre as mulheres e maior entre os adolescentes com excesso de peso, entre adultos suficientemente ativos e entre os idosos de menor renda familiar per capita. O consumo de bebidas açucaradas foi elevado, particularmente entre adolescentes. Políticas públicas são necessárias a fim de reduzir o consumo dessas bebidas. Conclusão: Faixa etária, sexo, renda familiar per capita e índice de massa corporal foram associadas ao consumo de bebidas açucaradas.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: The intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) varies according to the characteristics of the population. Objective: To investigate the SSB intake and demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors associated with its consumption in adolescents, adults, and older adults in São Paulo. Methods: Data were drawn from the Health Survey of São Paulo, a cross-sectional population-based study including 1,662 individuals aged 12 years or more. SSB were classified into six groups: sugar-sweetened sodas, sweetened coffee and tea, sweetened milk and dairy products, sweetened fruit juice, sweetened fruit drink, and total SSB. The association of each group with demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle variables was assessed using linear regression models. Results: The mean SSB intake was 668.4 mL in adolescents, 502.6 mL in adults, and 358.2 mL in elderly adults. Sodas and sweetened coffee and tea represented had the greatest contribution to energy intake. SSB consumption was lower among female sex and higher among overweight adolescents, among sufficiently active adults, and among lower household per capita income older adults. Consumption of SSB was high, particularly among adolescents. Public policies are required in order to decrease the consumption of these beverages. Conclusion: Age group, sex, household per capita income, and body mass index status were associated with SSB intake.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a associação entre a qualidade da dieta e o consumo de bebidas açucaradas em adolescentes, adultos e idosos residentes da cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Métodos Foram utilizados dados provenientes do Inquérito de Saúde de São Paulo de 2008, estudo transversal de base populacional, com amostra composta por 1494 consumidores de bebidas açucaradas. O consumo alimentar foi avaliado por meio de dois Recordatórios Alimentares de 24 Horas e o consumo habitual de bebidas açucaradas foi estimado por meio do Multiple Source Method. A qualidade da dieta foi determinada usando o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta Revisado. A associação entre o índice revisado e a ingestão de bebidas açucaradas foi avaliada por meio de modelos de regressão linear para cada grupo etário, considerando o desenho amostral. Resultados Independente da faixa etária, o aumento do consumo de bebidas açucaradas foi associado à diminuição da pontuação total do Índice de Qualidade da Dieta-Revisado e dos componentes “frutas integrais”, “frutas totais”, “carne, ovos e leguminosas” e “gordura sólida, álcool e açúcar de adição”. Conclusão A maior ingestão de bebidas açucaradas está associada à pior qualidade da dieta. O planejamento de políticas públicas visando à diminuição do consumo de bebidas açucaradas é essencial para aumentar a qualidade da dieta e reduzir a incidência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the association between sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and dietary quality in adolescents, adults, and older adults living in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods Data were drawn from a cross-sectional population-based study conducted in 2008 in a representative urban city sample involving 1494 consumers of sugar-sweetened beverages. Dietary intake was evaluated through two 24-Hour Dietary Recalls, and the usual sugar-sweetened beverages consumption was estimated using the Multiple Source Method. Dietary quality was evaluated using the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index – Revised. The association between total score of the revised index and components with sugar-sweetened beverages consumption tertiles was assessed using multiple linear regression models for each age group, considering the sample design. Results Regardless of age group, the increase of sugar-sweetened beverages consumption was associated with a decrease in the total Healthy Eating Index – Revised score and in the components “total fruit”; “whole fruit”; “meat, eggs and legumes”, and the “solid fat, alcohol and added sugar”. Conclusion The results of our study suggest that higher sugar-sweetened beverages consumption was associated with poorer dietary quality. Planning public health policies aimed at decreasing sugar-sweetened beverages consumption is essential to increase dietary quality and reduce the incidence of noncommunicable diseases.

We analysed 16 variable number tandem repeats (VNTR) and three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in Mycobacterium leprae present on 115 Ziehl-Neelsen (Z-N)-stained slides and in 51 skin biopsy samples derived from leprosy patients from Ceará (n = 23), Pernambuco (n = 41), Rio de Janeiro (n = 22) and Rondônia (RO) (n = 78). All skin biopsies yielded SNP-based genotypes, while 48 of the samples (94.1%) yielded complete VNTR genotypes. We evaluated two procedures for extracting M. leprae DNA from Z-N-stained slides: the first including Chelex and the other combining proteinase and sodium dodecyl sulfate. Of the 76 samples processed using the first procedure, 30.2% were positive for 16 or 15 VNTRs, whereas of the 39 samples processed using the second procedure, 28.2% yielded genotypes defined by at least 10 VNTRs. Combined VNTR and SNP analysis revealed large variability in genotypes, but a high prevalence of SNP genotype 4 in the Northeast Region of Brazil. Our observation of two samples from RO with an identical genotype and seven groups with similar genotypes, including four derived from residents of the same state or region, suggest a tendency to form groups according to the origin of the isolates. This study demonstrates the existence of geographically related M. leprae genotypes and that Z-N-stained slides are an alternative source for M. leprae genotyping.

Fingerprinting of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains from tuberculosis (TB) patients attended in Community Health Centers (CHCs) of Rio de Janeiro was performed to verify possible risk factors for TB transmission. A prospective community-based study was performed during the period of July 1996 to December 1996 by collecting sputum samples of 489 patients in 11 different CHCs in four different planning areas (APs) of the city. Bacteriological, clinical, and epidemiological information was collected and M. tuberculosis genotypes defined after restriction fragment length polymorphism (IS6110-RFLP) and double repetitive element (DRE) fingerprinting of RFLP-clustered cases. Risk factors for TB transmission were looked for using three levels of cluster stringency. Among 349 (71%) positive cultures obtained, IS6110-RFLP typing could be performed on strains from 153 different patients. When using identity of RFLP patterns as cluster definition, 49 (32%) of the strains belonged to a cluster and none of the clinical or epidemiologic characteristics was associated with higher clustering levels. However, higher clustering level was observed in the AP including the central region of the city when compared to others. This strongly suggests that more recent transmission occurs in that area and this may be related with higher incidence of TB and HIV in this region.