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The introduction of nanotechnology into pharmaceutical application revolutionized the administration of antitumor drugs through the modulation of their accumulation in specific organs/body compartments, a decrease in their side-effects and their controlled release from innovative systems. The use of plant-derived proteins as innovative, safe and renewable raw materials to be used for the development of polymeric nanoparticles unlocked a new scenario in the drug delivery field. In particular, the reduced size of the colloidal systems combined with the peculiar properties of non-immunogenic polymers favored the characterization and evaluation of the pharmacological activity of the novel nanoformulations. The aim of this review is to describe the physico-chemical properties of nanoparticles composed of vegetal proteins used to retain and deliver anticancer drugs, together with the most important preparation methods and the pharmacological features of these potential nanomedicines.

Mesmo com avanços significativos em relação a políticas e programas no combate à miséria e à fome, Comunidades Remanescentes de Quilombo perpassam por disparidades envolvendo o Direito à alimentação, concretizando um desafio atingir parcelas mais vulneráveis da população. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar a prevalência de Insegurança Alimentar intradomiciliar em domicílios de uma comunidade quilombola de um município da Grande Aracaju-SE e seus aspectos associados. Com um total de 26 domicílios, totalizaram-se informações de 88 moradores em relação ao perfil socioeconômico, à insegurança alimentar intradomiciliar, ao acesso a programas sociais, entre outros. Os dados foram analisados descritivamente, a partir de frequências relativas e medidas de tendência central. Foi aplicado o teste de Qui-Quadrado nas associações entre insegurança alimentar e outras variáveis. A prevalência de Insegurança Alimentar Moderada ou Grave (IAMG) encontrada foi de 52,2%, também foram encontradas associações significativas entre a situação de IAMG com variáveis de acesso a serviços de saúde e saneamento básico. Conclui-se que a prevalência de insegurança alimentar na comunidade é bastante elevada, estando associada a condições precárias de saneamento básico, acesso deficiente a serviços de saúde e a políticas públicas, revelando condição de vulnerabilidade referente à garantia de segurança alimentar e nutricional e do direito humano à alimentação adequada.

Background: In this paper, we focused on mixing in educational settings between members of Catholic and Protestant ethnoreligious groups in Northern Ireland. Aims:. In Study 1, we examined whether opportunities for contact at home and at university were associated with greater actual out-group friendships, and whether this friendship was associated with a reduction in prejudice. We also assessed whether the impact of out-group friendships at university was moderated by experience of out-group friendships outside university, such that the prejudice-reducing effect of university friendships was stronger for those with fewer friendships at home. In Study 2, we assessed opportunities for contact and actual out-group friendships at prior stages of the educational system and their relationship with prejudice. Sample(s): In both studies, our participants were students at universities in Northern Ireland (Study 1 "N" = 304 and Study 2 "N" = 157). Methods: We analysed the data using multiple regression and structural equation modelling. Results: First, opportunities for contact were positively associated with self-reported out-group friendships in all domains and stages of the educational system. Second, having more out-group friends was associated with reduced prejudice. Finally, the relationship between out-group friendships and current levels of prejudice was moderated by prior levels of out-group friendships (at home in Study 1; and at secondary and primary school in Study 2). Conclusions: Contact, in the form of out-group friendships, was more powerful when it was a novel feature in a person's life. We discuss these findings in terms of the impact of mixing in educational contexts, especially in Northern Ireland, and outline suggestions for future research. (Contains 6 tables and 2 figures.)

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Oxidative stress and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), are major consequences of hepatic lipid overload, which can contribute to progression of NAFLD to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Also, mitochondria are involved in the NAFLD pathogenesis for their role in hepatic lipid metabolism. Definitive treatments for NAFLD/NASH are lacking so far. Silybin, the extract of the milk thistle seeds, has previously shown beneficial effects in NAFLD. Sequential exposure of hepatocytes to high concentrations of fatty acids (FAs) and TNFα resulted in fat overload and oxidative stress, which mimic in vitro the progression of NAFLD from simple steatosis (SS) to steatohepatitis (SH). The exposure to 50 µM silybin for 24 h reduced fat accumulation in the model of NAFLD progression. The in vitro progression of NAFLD from SS to SH resulted in reduced hepatocyte viability, increased apoptosis and oxidative stress, reduction in lipid droplet size, and up-regulation of IκB kinase β-interacting protein and adipose triglyceride lipase expressions. The direct action of silybin on SS or SH cells and the underlying mechanisms were assessed. Beneficial action of silybin was sustained by changes in expression/activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and enzymes for FA oxidation. Moreover, silybin counteracted the FA-induced mitochondrial damage by acting on complementary pathways: (i) increased the mitochondrial size and improved the mitochondrial cristae organization; (ii) stimulated mitochondrial FA oxidation; (iii) reduced basal and maximal respiration and ATP production in SH cells; (iv) stimulated ATP production in SS cells; and (v) rescued the FA-induced apoptotic signals and oxidative stress in SH cells. We provide new insights about the direct protective effects of the nutraceutic silybin on hepatocytes mimicking in vitro NAFLD progression.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a late-onset fatal neurodegenerative disease reflecting degeneration of upper and lower motoneurons (MNs). The cause of ALS and the mechanisms of neuronal death are still largely obscure, thus impairing the establishment of efficacious therapies. Glutamate (Glu)-mediated excitotoxicity plays a major role in MN degeneration in ALS. We recently demonstrated that the activation of Group I metabotropic Glu autoreceptors, belonging to both type 1 and type 5 receptors (mGluR1 and mGluR5), at glutamatergic spinal cord nerve terminals, produces excessive Glu release in mice over-expressing human superoxide-dismutase carrying the G93A point mutation (SOD1G93A), a widely used animal model of human ALS. To establish whether these receptors are implicated in ALS, we generated mice expressing half dosage of mGluR1 in the SOD1G93A background (SOD1G93AGrm1crv4/+), by crossing the SOD1G93A mutant mouse with the Grm1crv4/+ mouse, lacking mGluR1 because of a spontaneous recessive mutation. SOD1G93AGrm1crv4/+ mice showed prolonged survival probability, delayed pathology onset, slower disease progression and improved motor performances compared to SOD1G93A mice. These effects were associated to reduction of mGluR5 expression, enhanced number of MNs, decreased astrocyte and microglia activation, normalization of metallothionein and catalase mRNA expression, reduced mitochondrial damage, and decrease of abnormal Glu release in spinal cord of SOD1G93AGrm1crv4/+compared to SOD1G93A mice. These results demonstrate that a lower constitutive level of mGluR1 has a significant positive impact on mice with experimental ALS, thus providing the rationale for future pharmacological approaches to ALS by selectively blocking Group I metabotropic Glu receptors.

Background/Aims: Fatty acids are the main energy stores and the major membrane components of the cells. In the hepatocyte, fatty acids are esterified to triacylglycerols (TAGs) and stored in lipid droplets (LDs). The lipid lowering action of 3,5-diiodo-L-thyronine (T2) on an in vitro model of hepatosteatosis was investigated in terms of fatty acid and protein content of LDs, lipid oxidation and secretion. Methods: FaO cells were exposed to oleate/palmitate, then treated with T2. Results: T2 reduced number and size of LDs, and modified their acyl composition by decreasing the content of saturated (SFA) vs monounsaturated (MUFA) fatty acids thus reversing the SFA/MUFA ratio. The expression of the LD-associated proteins adipose differentiation-related protein (ADRP), oxidative tissue-enriched PAT protein (OXPAT), and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) was increased in ‘steatotic' cells and further up-regulated by T2. Moreover, T2 stimulated the mitochondrial oxidation by up-regulating carnitine-palmitoyl-transferase (CPT1), uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) and very long-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (VLCAD). Conclusions: T2 leads to mobilization of TAGs from LDs and stimulates mitochondrial oxidative metabolism of fatty acids, in particular of SFAs, and thus enriches of MUFAs the LDs. This action may protect the hepatocyte from excess of SFAs that are more toxic than MUFAs.

INTRODUCTION: Epidemiological research has been adhering to new technologies, such as computer systems, and using the Internet as a tool. Usability is a characteristic of a specific product concerning the facility to use it, its speed and the facility to learn how to use it. It should also not present errors, or these must be easy to solve, in case they occur, thus providing high satisfaction to users. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the usability of the "System of health and nutrition monitoring - nutrition of school children" (NUTRISIM). METHODS: A sample of 17 Information Technology professionals evaluated the system and answered the "Questionnaire for System Usability", which determines the level of usability of systems by the Fuzzy Logic. The questionnaire contains 30 questions, which are divided into six metrics. The usability of the system determines six usability criteria in a large Fuzzy scale. RESULTS: With the exception of the metric "error control", all metrics were analyzed as "very good". The metrics "error control", "efficiency" and "satisfaction" presented medium amplitude, which is a better result in relation to the metrics "easy to learn", "easy to remember" and "effectiveness", which was assessed as "high". CONCLUSION: The study showed that the system is easy to be learned and used, but the answers are scattered. The instrument proved to be a useful tool to monitor and evaluate health and dietary intake in epidemiologic studies.

We investigated the effects of gender and group size on perceptions of group variability, using groups of students taking different majors that varied in the proportion of men and women (female-majority, parity, and male-majority). We found that both group size and gender had consistent effects on perceived out-group variability, even when potentially confounded alternative explanations were assessed. Men showed a stronger out-group homogeneity effect than women, except when women were in the majority (Studies One and Two), and women showed no in-group homogeneity effect. There was an association between out-group homogeneity and the tendency to generate more subgroups for the in-group than out-group (Study Two), but perceived variability was not associated with familiarity, distinctiveness, perceived group size, or perceived group status. These consistent effects qualify the conclusions of prior research in important ways, and cannot be explained in terms of differences in stereotype accuracy (Study Three), or a confound between the gender majority of a major and its perceived status (Study Four). We discuss our findings in terms of theoretical explanations for gender and size effects on out-group homogeneity, and methodological considerations. (Contains 3 tables and 10 footnotes.)

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular diseases with more than 230 million people being affected worldwide. As highlighted by the recent European Society of Cardiology guidelines, data on the epidemiology of PAD is urgently needed. We accessed the vital registration data of the Veneto region (Northern Italy, approximately five millions inhabitants) covering the period 2008–2019. We computed annual age-standardized rates for PAD reported as the underlying cause of death (UCOD) or as one of multiple causes of death (MCOD). Age-adjusted odds ratios (OR) served to study the association between PAD and cardiovascular comorbidities. The age-standardized mortality rate for PAD as MCOD slightly declined from 19.6 to 17.8 in men and from 10.8 to 9.1 deaths per 100,000 population-years in women. The age-standardized PAD-specific mortality rate (UCOD) remained stable: 3.1 to 3.7 per 100,000 person-years in women (Average Annual Percent Change 1.3, 95% CI -0.8; 3.4%) and 4.4 to 4.3 per 100,000 person-years (Average Annual Percent Change -0.2, 95% CI -3.6; 3.4%) in men. PAD contributed to 1.6% of all deaths recorded in the region. Ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus and neoplasms were the most prevalent UCOD among PAD patients. PAD was associated with diabetes mellitus (OR 3.79, 95%CI 3.55–4.06) and chronic kidney diseases (OR 2.73, 95%CI 2.51–2.97) in men, and with atrial fibrillation (OR 2.26, 95%CI 2.10–2.44) in women. PAD remains a substantial cause of death in the general population of this high-income region of Western Europe with marked sex-specific differences. • PAD is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular diseases with 230 million patients affected worldwide, but mortality data is urgently needed. • In the Veneto region, the age-standardized mortality rate for PAD as multiple cause of death slightly declined in men and women over the past decade. • The age-standardized mortality rate for PAD as underline cause of death declined in men, but increased in women. • Ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and cancer were the most prevalent underline causes of death among PAD patients. • PAD remains a substantial cause of death in the general population of this high-income European region with marked sex-specific differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive pomace, a heterogeneous solid waste from olive oil production, is one of the most widespread agro- industrial by-products in Mediterranean area. The amount of organic compounds with high chemical and biological oxygen demands present in olive pomace stresses the related industries to adapt adequate treatments for this by-product. Being rich in bioactive molecules, it could be considered a low-cost and renewable source of high added value compounds, such as polyphenols. Dietary plant polyphenols are the subject of increasing scientific interest because of their possible beneficial effects on human health. Recent studies suggested that action of polyphenols goes beyond the modulation of oxidative stress and can improve several physiopathological conditions. In the present study, we investigated the possible effects of polyphenols extracted from olive pomace (PEOP) and of the main single phenolic compounds present in the extract (tyrosol, apigenin and oleuropein) in protecting hepatocytes against excess fat and oxidative stress. PEOP were extracted using a high pressure- temperature agitated reactor (25 bar, 180 °C for 90 min). A mixture of ethanol:water (50:50 v/v) was used as extraction solvents resulting to total polyphenol concentration of 5.77 mgCaffeic Acid Equivalent/mL. In order to test the biological effects of the extract we used rat hepatoma FaO cells exposed to a mixture of oleate/palmitate (2:1 molar ratio) for 3 h which represent a reliable in vitro model for hepatic steatosis. After lipid-loading, hepatic cells were incubated for 24 h in the absence or in the presence of 10 µg/mL tyrosol, 13 µg/mL apigenin or 50 µg/mL oleuropein. Content of intra- and extra-cellular triglycerides (TGs), and oxidative stress-related parameters were evaluated. The preliminary results showed that PEOP ameliorated lipid accumulation and lipid-dependent oxidative unbalance showing their potential applications as therapeutic agents.

Gli stereotipi legati alla figura dell’italiano si differenziano tra i due sessi: l’uomo ha un’immagine intraprendente, legata al successo nel lavoro, alla capacità di arrangiarsi e di adeguarsi a condizioni di vita anche difficoltose, mentre la donna conserva tratti arcaici, sempre riferiti alla sfera di cura e domestica; le differenze si notano anche tra donne e donne: quelle che sono state in qualche modo coinvolte nel fenomeno migratorio e quelle che non ne sono state toccate: cambiano le rappresentazioni del femminile da parte degli altri, ma, soprattutto, cambiano i tempi e le modalità della conquista di autonomia ed emancipazione.

The aim of this study was to validate the intake of carotenoids, fruits and vegetables estimated by the Food Frequency Questionnaire for Adolescents (FFQA) using the method of triads. Blood samples were collected from 80 elementary school adolescents to assess serum levels of β-carotene. Partial correlation coefficients (r) were calculated between an estimated intake of carotenoids, fruits and vegetables and the serum levels of β-carotene. Validity coefficients were calculated using the method of triads. With the exception of carotenoids, partial r from the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) were greater than those of the 24-hour recall (24hR). The fruit/vegetable group showed the highest partial r for the FFQ (r = 0.235) and the 24hR (r = 0.137). The highest validity coefficient was obtained for the vegetable group, as assessed by the FFQ (r = 0.873). On average, the validity coefficient values for the FFQ were greater than those obtained for the 24hR or the β-carotene serum levels. The FFQA is an accurate tool for estimating the intake of carotenoids, fruits and vegetables in this population group.O objetivo do estudo foi validar a ingestão de carotenóides, frutas e hortaliças estimada pelo Questionário de Frequência Alimentar para Adolescentes (QFAA) utilizando o método das tríades. Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 80 adolescentes de uma escola de Ensino Fundamental para análise do b-caroteno plasmático. Coeficientes de correlação (r) parciais foram obtidos entre a ingestão de carotenóides, frutas e hortaliças e o b-caroteno plasmático. Os coeficientes de validade foram estimados a partir do método das tríades. O QFA apresentou valores de r parcial superiores ao recordatório alimentar de 24 horas (R24h), exceto para carotenóides. O grupo das frutas/hortaliças apresentou os maiores valores de r parciais tanto para o questionário de frequência alimentar (QFA) (r = 0,235) quanto para R24h (r = 0,137). O maior coeficiente de validade foi o do grupo de hortaliças avaliado pelo QFA (r = 0,873). Os valores de coeficiente de validade observados para o QFA foram em média superiores aos obtidos para R24h e b-caroteno plasmático. O QFAA é um instrumento com boa acurácia para estimar o consumo de carotenóides, frutas e hortaliças nesse grupo populacional.

PURPOSE: To assess the validity and reliability of self-reported height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI) to diagnose the nutritional status of adolescents. METHODS: The study included 360 public school students of both genders, with ages ranging from 10 to 15 years. Adolescents self-reported their weight and height, and these values were later obtained directly by interviewers. The validity of BMI based on self-reported measures was calculated using sensitivity and specificity indexes, and positive predictive value (PPV). Agreement between self-reported and measured BMI was evaluated using Kappa's weight coefficient, the Lin correlation coefficient, and Bland-Altman and Lin's plots. RESULTS: Both girls and boys underestimated their weight (-1.0 girls and boys) and height (girls - 1.2 and boys - 0.8) (p < 0.001). BMI presented moderate agreement between measured and self-reported values. Sensitivity of estimated BMI based on reported measures to classify obese subjects was higher for boys (87.5%) than it was for girls (60.9%), whereas specificity was higher for girls (92.7%) than it was for boys (80.6%). PPV was high only for classification of normal-weight adolescents. CONCLUSIONS: Self-reported measures of weight and height in adolescents do not present valid measures; therefore, they should not be used to replace measured values. Additionally, we observed that 10% of obese boys and 40% of obese girls could have remained unidentified if we had used only self-reported measures, emphasizing the effects of the low reliability of self-reporting.OBJETIVO: Avaliar a validade do peso, estatura e Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) referidos e sua confiabilidade para o diagnóstico do estado nutricional de adolescentes de Piracicaba. MÉTODOS: Participaram do estudo 360 adolescentes de ambos os sexos, de escolas públicas de Piracicaba, com idade entre 10 e 15 anos. Os adolescentes auto-relataram seu peso e estatura, sendo esses valores obtidos por medidas diretas, logo em seguida, pelos entrevistadores. A validade do IMC referido foi calculada segundo índices de sensibilidade, especificidade e valor preditivo positivo (VPP). Avaliou-se a concordância entre as categorias de IMC obtido por meio das medidas referidas e aferidas a partir do coeficiente kappa ponderado, coeficiente de correlação de Lin. e gráficos de Bland e Altman e Lin. RESULTADOS: Verificou-se que tanto os meninos quanto as meninas subestimaram o peso (-1,0 meninas e meninos) e a estatura (meninas -1,2 e meninos -0,8) (p < 0,001). Os valores de IMC aferidos e referidos apresentaram uma concordância moderada. A sensibilidade do IMC referido para classificar os indivíduos obesos foi maior para os meninos (87,5%), enquanto a especificidade foi maior para as meninas (92,7%). O VPP foi elevado somente para a classificação da eutrofia. CONCLUSÕES: As medidas referidas de peso e estatura de adolescentes não representam medidas válidas e, portanto, não devem ser usadas em substituição aos valores mensurados. Além disso, verificou-se que 10% dos meninos obesos e 40% das meninas obesas poderiam permanecer não identificados utilizando-se as medidas auto-referidas, confirmando a baixa validade das medidas auto-referidas.

This cross-sectional study describes the variation in the dietary intake of energy and macronutrients based on estimated coefficients of within- and between-person variation and intends to calculate the number of days required to evaluate the dietary intake of adolescents in Piracicaba, Brazil. The sample was made up by ninety-two adolescents aged between eleven and sixteen years. Interviews were performed to assess demographic, anthropometric and dietary variables, which were evaluated by the answers obtained through two 24-hour recalls. Descriptive analyses were performed and variances and Coefficients of variation within- and between-person were obtained by results of one-way ANOVA. The mean energy intake observed was 2,326.2 kilocalories; mean macronutrient intake came to 89.0 grams of fatty acids, 305.3 grams of carbohydrates and 82.2 grams of proteins. Coefficients of within-person variation ranged from 36% to 45%, while between-person coefficients varied from 26% to 31%. Variance ratios ranged from 1.35 (carbohydrate) to 2.62 (protein). The lowest number of observations required to correctly evaluate the usual diet calculated (r = 0.90) was six days, for carbohydrates while the highest was eleven, for proteins. Coefficients of variation were similar to those observed in international studies. We conclude that, in this study, two observations were sufficient to obtain reasonable correlations. However, six evaluations are necessary for these adolescents in order to obtain excellent correlations.Este estudo transversal descreve a variabilidade do consumo alimentar de energia e macronutrientes a partir da estimativa dos coeficientes de variação intra e interpessoal e calcula o número de dias necessários para se avaliar a ingestão dietética de adolescentes de Piracicaba, Brasil. A amostra foi constituída por 92 adolescentes com idade entre 11 e 16 anos. Por meio de entrevistas, foram avaliadas variáveis demográficas, antropométricas e de ingestão dietética, levantada por meio de dois Recordatórios de 24h. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, sendo que as variâncias e os coeficientes de variação intra e interpessoal foram obtidos a partir dos resultados da ANOVA com um fator de classificação. O consumo médio de energia observado foi de 2.326,2 Kcal, e em relação aos macronutrientes foram observados valores de 89,0g de lipídios, 305,3g de carboidratos e 82,2g de proteínas. Os coeficientes de variação intrapessoal variaram de 36% a 45% enquanto os coeficientes de variação interpessoal variaram de 26% a 31%. A razão entre as variâncias variou de 1,35 (carboidrato) a 2,62 (proteína). O menor número de observações necessárias para avaliar corretamente (r = 0,90) a dieta habitual foi de 6 dias para carboidratos. O maior número foi para proteínas (11 dias). Os coeficientes de variação foram semelhantes aos observados em estudos internacionais. Conclui-se que, para o presente estudo, duas observações foram suficientes para a obtenção de coeficientes de correlação razoáveis. No entanto, para se obter ótimos coeficientes de correlação, são necessárias no mínimo seis avaliações destes adolescentes.

OBJETIVO: Verificar a validade do Questionário de Freqüência Alimentar para Adolescentes para avaliar o consumo de grupos de alimentos entre escolares de Piracicaba, São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Participaram do estudo 94 adolescentes, com idade entre 11 e 15 anos, matriculados em uma escola da rede pública. O consumo alimentar foi avaliado pelo Questionário de Freqüência Alimentar para Adolescentes (QFAA) e a média de dois Recordatórios de 24 horas (R24h) foi utilizada como método de referência. Os itens alimentares foram classificados em 18 grupos. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, teste t-Student pareado e de Wilcoxon, coeficientes de correlação de Pearson e de Spearman. Foram também utilizadas análise de quartis e estatística Kappa ponderado. Os coeficientes de correlação foram corrigidos pela variância intrapessoal dos R24h, estimada a partir de ANOVA com um fator de classificação. RESULTADOS: Não foram verificadas diferenças significativas entre os instrumentos para o arroz, massas, carnes, refrigerantes e sucos artificiais. Os coeficientes de correlação corrigidos pela variabilidade intrapessoal variaram de -0,26 a 0,78. A concordância de classificação dos indivíduos no mesmo quartil de consumo para ambos os métodos variou de 22% (massas) a 50% (feijão). Para quartis opostos, os grupos que tiveram mais de 10% dos indivíduos classificados incorretamente foram massas (19%), carnes (13%) e gorduras (11%). Os valores de Kappa ponderado variaram de - 0,15 (massas) a 0,56 (feijão). O QFAA superestimou o consumo de quase a totalidade dos grupos alimentares e subestimou os grupos dos óleos, feijão, carnes e refrigerantes. CONCLUSÃO: O instrumento apresentou boa validade para feijão, verduras e legumes, leite e derivados, biscoitos recheados e para o arroz.OBJECTIVE: To verify the validity of the Food Frequency Questionnaire for Adolescents in order to evaluate food group consumption among adolescents from Piracicaba, São Paulo. METHODS: The study was carried out with 94 adolescents, ranging from 11 to 15 years of age, from the public education system. Food consumption was assessed by the Food Frequency Questionnaire for Adolescents (QFAA) and the average of two 24-hour recalls (R24h) was used as a reference method. The food items were classified into 18 groups. Descriptive analyses, paired t-test and Wilcoxon test, Pearson and Spearman coefficients were performed. Analysis of quartiles and Kappa test were used. Correlation coefficients were adjusted by the within-subject variance of the 24-hour recalls, from one-way ANOVA. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between the tools for rice, pasta, meat, soft drinks, and artificial juices. The correlation coefficients adjusted by within-subject variability ranged from -0.26 to 0.78. Agreement of individuals' classification in quartiles of food consumption for both methods ranged from 22% (pasta) to 50% (beans). For discordant quartiles, the groups that presented more than 10% of misclassified subjects were pasta (19%), meat (13%) and fats (11%). The values of the Kappa test ranged from -0.15 (pastas) to 0.56 (beans). The food frequency questionnaire over-estimated the consumption of almost all the food groups and under-estimated the groups of oils, beans, meats, and soft drinks CONCLUSION: The food frequency questionnaire revealed good validity for beans, vegetables, milk and dairy, cookies with filling, and rice.

To assess the reproducibility of a validated 76-item food frequency questionnaire designed to estimate diet in adolescents (Adolescent Food Frequency Questionnaire - AFFQ) in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil, a test-retest study was conducted (n = 49). Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), weighted kappa, and percentage of agreement were used in both crude and energy-adjusted nutrient intakes. Bland Altman plots were used to examine the limits of agreement for energy and macronutrients. The ICC ranged from 0.48 (carbohydrates) to 0.65 (vitamin C) in crude values and from 0.25 (total fat) to 0.58 (vitamin C) in adjusted values. Kappa values ranged from 0.28 (protein and fiber) to 0.56 (unsaturated fat). Bland Altman showed a trend towards larger difference in energy according to increased intake values and a bias towards extreme values for fat intake. The percent of individuals classified in the same category on the two occasions was on average 54.2%. By conclusion, the Adolescent Food Frequency Questionnaire showed reasonable reproducibility and can be used in studies that aim to classify groups into intake categories.Para avaliar a reprodutibilidade de um Questionário de Freqüência Alimentar para Adolescentes (QFAA), 76 itens, validado, desenvolvido para estimar a dieta habitual de adolescentes em São Paulo, Brasil, foi conduzido um estudo do tipo teste-reteste (n = 49). Utilizaram-se o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI), o kappa ponderado e a porcentagem de concordância para os valores de ingestão brutos e ajustados pela energia. Os limites de concordância para energia e macronutrientes foram examinados pelos gráficos de Bland Altman. O CCI variou de 0,48 (carboidratos) a 0,65 (vitamina C) para os nutrientes brutos e de 0,25 (lipídios totais) a 0,58 (vitamina C) para os ajustados. Os valores do kappa variaram de 0,28 (proteínas e fibras) a 0,56 (lipídios insaturados). O gráfico de Bland Altman evidenciou tendência à maior diferença para energia conforme o aumento dos valores de ingestão e para lipídios com os valores extremos. A porcentagem de indivíduos classificados na mesma categoria foi em média 54,2%. Conclui-se que o QFAA apresentou razoável reprodutibilidade e pode ser utilizado em estudos que objetivam classificar os indivíduos em categorias de consumo.

OBJETIVO: Estratégias metodológicas vêm sendo desenvolvidas para minimizar o efeito do erro de medida da dieta. O objetivo do estudo foi descrever a aplicação de uma estratégia para correção da informação dietética pelo erro de medida. MÉTODOS: Foram obtidos dados de consumo alimentar pela aplicação do Questionário de Freqüência Alimentar a 79 adolescentes do Município de São Paulo em 1999. Os dados dietéticos obtidos foram corrigidos por meio de regressão linear, após o ajuste pela energia usando-se o método dos resíduos. O método de referência utilizado foi o recordatório de 24 horas, aplicado em três momentos distintos. RESULTADOS: Os valores corrigidos aproximaram-se dos valores de referência. O fator de correção lambda foi de 0,89 para energia. Para os macronutrientes, os fatores foram de 0,41; 0,22 e 0,20, para carboidratos, lipídios e proteínas, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: As médias e desvios-padrão dos valores corrigidos denotam que houve uma correção do erro de medida. Apesar disso, debate-se o desempenho desses métodos, que são notoriamente imperfeitos quando seus pressupostos teóricos não são atendidos, o que é comum nos estudos da dieta que usam instrumentos de medida baseados no relato dos indivíduos.OBJECTIVE: Methodological approaches have been developed to minimize effects of measurement error in dietary intake data. The objective of the study was to apply a strategy to correct intake data according to measurement error. METHODS: Intake data were obtained by applying the Food Frequency Questionnaire in 79 adolescents of São Paulo city, Brazil. Correction of dietary intake data was performed by linear regression, after energy adjustment by the residual method. The reference method used was 24-hour dietary recall and it was applied three times. RESULTS: Corrected values were similar to reference values. Correction factor ? was 0.89 to energy. For macronutrients, factors were 0.41, carbohydrate 0.22, and lipid and protein 0.20. CONCLUSIONS: Mean and standard deviation of corrected values show a correction for the measurement error. The performance of these methods, that are imperfect, is questioned when the assumptions are not proved which is common in intake studies of measures based on the reports of individuals.

O Questionário de Freqüência Alimentar para Adolescentes (QFAA), validado em amostra de adolescentes do município de São Paulo, passou por adaptação e reestruturação, para ser aplicado em Piracicaba. Objetivou-se aplicar o QFAA reformulado e descrever a dieta habitual de um grupo de escolares de Piracicaba. Após as modificações quanto ao número de itens alimentares e o tamanho das porções, o QFAA foi testado em 19 escolares com idade entre 10 e 14 anos para avaliar o consumo alimentar. Além de análises descritivas, o teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov foi aplicado para todas as variáveis quantitativas contínuas. O teste T de Student foi aplicado para comparação de médias entre os gêneros. Apenas para as variáveis que apresentaram variâncias desiguais aplicou-se o teste U de Mann-Whitney. O consumo médio habitual observado foi de 2803,30 kcal. As médias dos macronutrientes, ajustados pela ingestão calórica, foram de 93,16g para proteína, 107,33g para lipídios e 391,85g para carboidratos. As médias de porções consumidas por dia variaram de 1,07 (feijões) a 3,36 (doces). Observou-se um elevado consumo de doces (aproximadamente 113g/dia) e reduzida ingestão de frutas e hortaliças quando comparados ao Guia Alimentar Americano. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os gêneros para as variáveis deste estudo.

Resumo Objetivo: avaliar o consumo alimentar de gestantes atendidas em Unidades Básicas de Saúde de Picos–PI. Métodos: estudo transversal envolvendo 72 gestantes. Coletou-se dados de ingestão dietética, a partir da aplicação de 3 recordatórios alimentares de 24 horas. As prevalências de adequação para carboidrato, cálcio, ferro, vitamina A, C, E e folato foram calculadas baseando-se em suas respectivas necessidades médias estimadas (EAR). Resultados: carboidratos e vitamina C tiveram prevalência de adequação maior que 98%, enquanto a vitamina A, ficou entre 50 a 70%. Cálcio, ferro, folato e vitamina E tiveram prevalência de adequação menor que 2%. Como o IMC é bom indicador da adequação da ingestão energética habitual em relação ao gasto energético usual e 38,9% estavam com excesso de peso, presume-se que estas gestantes apresentam prevalência elevada de consumo inadequado de energia. Conclusão: a maioria das gestantes pesquisadas não tiveram orientação nutricional adequada para nortear suas escolhas alimentares.

Objetivo. Descrever os instrumentos, os material e métodos para a coleta de dados e monitoramento aplicados na Pesquisa Nacional do Consumo Alimentar e Perfil Nutricional de Escolares Modelos de Gestão e de Controle Social do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar(PNAE). Material e método. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, representativo para os alunos de escolas públicas de ensino fundamental, em nível nacional, regional e estadual (Unidades Federadas e Distrito Federal) do território brasileiro. Para a avaliação do PNAE foram utilizados dez questionários respondidos por alunos, merendeiros, professores, diretores ou responsáveis pela escola no momento da entrevista e conselheiros do Conselho de Alimentação Escolar (CAE). Foram coletados dados demográficos e socioeconômicos, antropométricos, de aceitação da alimentação escolar e de consumo alimentar, informações sobre saúde e boas práticas das merendeiras e de boas práticas e de infraestrutura do local, percepção da comunidade escolar em relação ao CAE e o tipo de gestão adotado pelo município. O monitoramento foi realizado a partir de visitas às escolas e ligações telefônicas feitas a cerca de 10% das escolas pesquisadas, além da crítica e conferência de questionários preenchidos. Conclusão. A criação de materiais e a divulgação de estudos que envolvam a avaliação do PNAE são de fundamental importância. Esse trabalho permite transmitir conhecimentos e elucidar ferramentas para que seja assegurada a qualidade da alimentação servida aos escolares, auxiliando na aceitação do alimento e, consequentemente,na oferta de uma alimentação saudável.

INTRODUCTION: Information on benefits and risks of drugs is a key element affecting doctors' prescribing decisions. Outreach visits promoting independent information have proved moderately effective in changing prescribing behaviours. OBJECTIVES: Testing the short and long-term effectiveness on general practitioners' prescribing of small groups meetings led by pharmacists. METHODS: Two cluster open randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were carried out in a large scale NHS setting. Ad hoc prepared evidence based material were used considering a therapeutic area approach--TEA, with information materials on osteoporosis or prostatic hyperplasia--and a single drug oriented approach--SIDRO, with information materials on me-too drugs of 2 different classes: barnidipine or prulifloxacin. In each study, all 115 Primary Care Groups in a Northern Italy area (2.2 million inhabitants, 1737 general practitioners) were randomised to educational small groups meetings, in which available evidence was provided together with drug utilization data and clinical scenarios. Main outcomes were changes in the six-months prescription of targeted drugs. Longer term results (24 and 48 months) were also evaluated. RESULTS: In the TEA trial, one of the four primary outcomes showed a reduction (prescription of alfuzosin compared to tamsulosin and terazosin in benign prostatic hyperplasia: prescribing ratio -8.5%, p = 0.03). Another primary outcome (prescription of risedronate) showed a reduction at 24 and 48 months (-7.6%, p = 0.02; and -9,8%, p = 0.03), but not at six months (-5.1%, p = 0.36). In the SIDRO trial both primary outcomes showed a statistically significant reduction (prescription of barnidipine -9.8%, p = 0.02; prescription of prulifloxacin -11.1%, p = 0.04), which persisted or increased over time. INTERPRETATION: These two cluster RCTs showed the large scale feasibility of a complex educational program in a NHS setting, and its potentially relevant long-term impact on prescribing habits, in particular when focusing on a single drug. National Health systems should invest in independent drug information programs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Controlled-Trials.com ISRCTN05866587.

The article aims to measure implicit sexual attitude in heterosexual, gay and bisexual individuals. A Many-Facet Rasch Measurement analysis was used to disentangle the contribution of specific associations to the overall IAT measure. A preference for heterosexuals relative to homosexuals is observed in heterosexual respondents, driven most by associating positive attributes with heterosexuals rather than negative attributes with homosexuals. Differently, neither the negative nor the positive evaluation of any of the target groups play a prominent role in driving the preference for homosexuals observed in gay respondents. A preference for heterosexuals relative to homosexuals is observed in bisexual respondents, that results most from ascribing negative attributes to homosexuals rather than positive attributes to heterosexuals. The results are consistent with the expression of the need for achieving a positive self-image and with the influence of shared social norms concerning sexuality.

BackgroundOnline social networks are popular components of behavior-change websites. Research has identified the participation of certain network members who assume leadership roles by providing support, advice, and direction to other members. In the literature, these individuals have been variously defined as key players, posters, active users, or caretakers. Despite their identification, very little research has been conducted on the contributions or demographic characteristics of this population. For this study, we collectively categorized key players, posters, active users, and caretakers as superusers. ObjectivesTo analyze data from two large but distinct Web-assisted tobacco interventions (WATI) to help gain insight into superuser demographic characteristics and how they use social networks. MethodsWe extracted cross-sectional data sets containing posting behaviors and demographic characteristics from a free, publicly funded program (the Canadian Cancer Society’s Smokers’ Helpline Online: SHO), and a free, privately run program (StopSmokingCenter.net: SSC). ResultsWithin the reporting period (SHO: June 26, 2008 to October 12, 2010; SSC: May 17, 2007 to October 12, 2010), 21,128 individuals registered for the SHO and 11,418 registered for the SSC. Within the same period, 1670 (7.90%) registrants made at least one post in the SHO social network, and 1627 (14.25%) registrants made at least one post in the SSC social network. SHO and SSC superusers accounted for 0.4% (n = 95) and 1.1% (n = 124) of all registrants, and 5.7% (95/1670) and 7.62% (124/1627) of all social network participants, and contributed to 34.78% (29,422/84,599) and 46.22% (61,820/133,753) of social network content, respectively. Despite vast differences in promotion and group management rules, and contrary to the beliefs of group moderators, there were no statistically significant differences in demographic characteristics between the two superuser groups. ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first study that compared demographic characteristics and posting behavior from two separate eHealth social networks. Despite vast differences in promotional efforts and management styles, both WATI attracted superusers with similar characteristics. As superusers drive network traffic, organizations promoting or supporting WATI should dedicate resources to encourage superuser participation. Further research regarding member dynamics and optimization of social networks for health care purposes is required.

BackgroundBoth intratreatment and extratreatment social support are associated with increased rates of smoking cessation. Internet-based social support groups have the capability of connecting widely dispersed groups of people trying to quit smoking, making social support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at minimal cost. However, to date there has been little research to guide development of this particular feature of Web-assisted tobacco interventions (WATIs). ObjectiveOur objectives were to compare the characteristics of smokers who post in an online smoking cessation support group with smokers who do not post, conduct a qualitative analysis of discussion board content, and determine the time it takes for new users to receive feedback from existing members or moderators. MethodsData were collected from StopSmokingCenter.net version 5.0, a WATI equipped with an online social support network moderated by trained program health educators that was operational from November 6, 2004, to May 15, 2007. Demographic and smoking characteristics for both users and nonusers of the online social support network were analyzed, and qualitative analyses were conducted to explore themes in message content. Posting patterns and their frequency were also analyzed. ResultsDuring the study period, 16,764 individuals registered; of these, 70% (11,723) reported being American. The mean age of registrants was 38.9 years and 65% (10,965) were female. The mean number of cigarettes smoked was 20.6 per day. The mean score for the 41% (6849) of users who completed the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence was 5.6. Of all registered members, 15% (2562) made at least one post in the online social support network; 25% of first posts received a response from another member within 12 minutes, 50% within 29 minutes. The most frequent first posts were from recent quitters who were struggling with their quit attempts, and most responses were from members who had quit for a month or more. Differences in demographic and smoking characteristics between members who posted on the support group board at least once and those who did not post were statistically but not clinically significant. ConclusionsPeer responses to new users were rapid, indicating that online social support networks may be particularly beneficial to smokers requiring more immediate assistance with their cessation attempt. This function may be especially advantageous for relapse prevention. Accessing this kind of rapid in-person support from a professional would take an inordinate amount of time and money. Further research regarding the effectiveness of WATIs with online social support networks is required to better understand the contribution of this feature to cessation, for both active users (posters) and passive users (“lurkers”) alike.