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Rare-element granites and pegmatites represent important sources of raw materials for “clean, green and high technologies”, such as lithium and tantalum, for example. However, mechanisms of rare-element granites and pegmatite’s origin are still far from being fully understood. Several rare-element pegmatite fields and a rare-element granite are known in the Variscan realms located in Iberia (Spain and Portugal), enhancing the interest of this area for studying the formation of these extremely fractionated melts. In situ U-Pb dating by LA-SF-ICP-MS of columbite-group minerals from rare-element granites and pegmatites of the Iberian Variscan belt provides new constraints on the generation of rare-element melts. Three events have been recognized: (i) Emplacement of the Argemela rare-element granite, in the Central Iberian Zone (CIZ), with an age of 326 ± 3 Ma; (ii) Emplacement of rare-element pegmatites from the Galicia-Trás-os-Montes Zone (GTOMZ), at an average age of 310 ± 5 Ma; (iii) Emplacement of rare-element pegmatites in the CIZ and in the southern GTOMZ at about 301 ± 3 Ma. These two last events are coeval with the two peaks of ages for the late orogenic magmatism at ca. 308 Ma and 299 Ma, and all dated rare-element pegmatites clearly emplaced during the late-orogenic evolution of the Variscan belt. Contemporaneous fields of rare-element pegmatites are arranged in belts following those formed by similar granitoid suites. Pegmatite fields from both the GTOMZ and the CIZ reveal a southward propagation of ages of emplacement, which matches the observed propagation of deformation, metamorphism and magmatism in the two different geotectonic zones. Existence of three successive rare-element events in the Iberian Massif argues against the involvement of lower crustal HP-HT metamorphism in the generation of rare-element melts. Possible sources of rare-element-enriched melts are more likely located in the middle to upper crust, as are the major components of granitic magmatism. Analyses of U and Pb isotopes from columbite-group minerals are very robust and reproducible, making them good candidates for dating ore deposits related to peraluminous magmatism as well as REE- and Nb-bearing deposits.

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OBJETIVO: Comparar o grau de repercussão, fatores responsáveis e época de aparecimento dos sintomas do defeito do septo atrioventricular (DSAV), em pacientes com e sem síndrome de Down. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados 80 pacientes com idade 50mmHg ocorreu em 56% dos casos do GI em relação a 28% do GII p

Neospora caninum is a major cause of reproductive loss in cattle worldwide as it leads to abortion and animal repositioning. Although Toxoplasma gondii does not cause a reproductive problem in cattle, consuming raw or uncooked beef poses the risk of transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies in dairy cattle in the West and Northwest regions of São Paulo State, Brazil. A total of 653 serum samples from dairy cows were analyzed using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Epidemiological data from the farms were associated with the serological results of the animals by logistic regression based on the presence of antibodies. The frequencies of the antibodies against N. caninum and T. gondii were 41.6% (272/653) and 11.5% (75/653), respectively. A statistically significant association was observed between: the serum anti-N. caninum antibodies and breed, history of food supplementation for calves, introduction of outside animals that later presented reproductive problems, and history of reproductive problems by the trimester of gestation. The present study highlights the importance of neosporosis in dairy cattle in the study regions and that the inclusion of this parasite in the investigation of animals with reproductive disorders is important.

Introduction: Angiopoietin 1 (angpt1) is essential for angiogenesis. However, its role in neurogenesis is largely undiscovered. This study aimed to identify the role of angpt1 in brain development, the mode of action of angpt1, and its prime targets in the zebrafish brain., Methods: We investigated the effects of embryonic brain angiogenesis and neural development using qPCR, in situ hybridization, microangiography, retrograde labeling, and immunostaining in the angpt1 sa 14264 , itgb1b mi 371 , tek hu 1667 mutant fish and transgenic overexpression of angpt1 in the zebrafish larval brains., Results: We showed the co-localization of angpt1 with notch , delta , and nestin in the proliferation zone in the larval brain. Additionally, lack of angpt1 was associated with downregulation of TEK tyrosine kinase, endothelial ( tek ), and several neurogenic factors despite upregulation of integrin beta 1b ( itgb1b ), angpt2a , vascular endothelial growth factor aa ( vegfaa ), and glial markers. We further demonstrated that the targeted angpt1 sa 14264 and itgb1b mi 371 mutant fish showed severely irregular cerebrovascular development, aberrant hindbrain patterning, expansion of the radial glial progenitors, downregulation of cell proliferation, deficiencies of dopaminergic, histaminergic, and GABAergic populations in the caudal hypothalamus. In contrast to angpt1 sa 14264 and itgb1b mi 371 mutants, the tek hu 1667 mutant fish regularly grew with no apparent phenotypes. Notably, the neural-specific angpt1 overexpression driven by the elavl3 (HuC) promoter significantly increased cell proliferation and neuronal progenitor cells but decreased GABAergic neurons, and this neurogenic activity was independent of its typical receptor tek ., Discussion: Our results prove that angpt1 and itgb1b , besides regulating vascular development, act as a neurogenic factor via notch and wnt signaling pathways in the neural proliferation zone in the developing brain, indicating a novel role of dual regulation of angpt1 in embryonic neurogenesis that supports the concept of angiopoietin-based therapeutics in neurological disorders., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Chen, Martins, Marchica and Panula.)

Glioblastoma (GBM) harbors a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) which influences glioma growth. Major efforts have been undertaken to describe the TME on a single-cell level. However, human data on regional differences within the TME remain scarce. Here, we performed high-depth single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) on paired biopsies from the tumor center, peripheral infiltration zone and blood of five primary GBM patients. Through analysis of >45,000 cells, we revealed a regionally distinct transcription profile of microglia (MG) and monocyte-derived macrophages (MdMs) and an impaired activation signature in the tumor-peripheral cytotoxic-cell compartment. Comparing tumor-infiltrating CD8 + T cells with circulating cells identified CX3CR1 high and CX3CR1 int CD8 + T cells with effector and memory phenotype, respectively, enriched in blood but absent in the TME. Tumor CD8 + T cells displayed a tissue-resident memory phenotype with dysfunctional features. Our analysis provides a regionally resolved mapping of transcriptional states in GBM-associated leukocytes, serving as an additional asset in the effort towards novel therapeutic strategies to combat this fatal disease., Competing Interests: PS, JR, SH, TS, TM, MR No competing interests declared, SD S.D. is affiliated with Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development. The author has no financial interests to declare, SH S.H. is affiliated with Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development. The author has no financial interests to declare, MB M.B. is affiliated with Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development. The author has no financial interests to declare, GH G.H. has equity in, and is a cofounder of Incephalo Inc, (© 2023, Schmassmann et al.)

Snakebite envenomation (SBE)-induced immunity refers to individuals who have been previously bitten by a snake and developed a protective immune response against subsequent envenomations. The notion stems from observations of individuals, including in the indigenous population, who present only mild signs and symptoms after surviving multiple SBEs. Indeed, these observations have engendered scientific interest and prompted inquiries into the potential development of a protective immunity from exposure to snake toxins. This review explores the evidence of a protective immune response developing following SBE. Studies suggest that natural exposure to snake toxins can trigger protection from the severity of SBEs, mediated by specific antibodies. However, the evaluation of the immune memory response in SBE patients remains challenging. Further research is needed to elucidate the immune response dynamics and identify potential targets for therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, the estimation of the effect of previous exposures on SBE epidemiology in hyperendemic areas, such as in the indigenous villages of the Amazon region (e.g., the Yanomami population) is a matter of debate.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive form of primary brain tumor, for which effective therapies are urgently needed. Cancer cells are capable of evading clearance by phagocytes such as microglia- and monocyte-derived cells through engaging tolerogenic programs. Here, we found that high expression of sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin 9 (Siglec-9) correlates with reduced survival in patients with GBM. Using microglia- and monocyte-derived cell-specific knockouts of Siglec-E, the murine functional homolog of Siglec-9, together with single-cell RNA sequencing, we demonstrated that Siglec-E inhibits phagocytosis by these cells, thereby promoting immune evasion. Loss of Siglec-E on monocyte-derived cells further enhanced antigen cross-presentation and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which resulted in more efficient T cell priming. This bridging of innate and adaptive responses delayed tumor growth and resulted in prolonged survival in murine models of GBM. Furthermore, we showed the combinatorial activity of Siglec-E blockade and other immunotherapies demonstrating the potential for targeting Siglec-9 as a treatment for patients with GBM.

Infusion therapy is the most common form of therapy used in health care. However, the existing infusion devices show higher flow discrepancies as flow rates decrease to a few nL min -1 . As a result, dosing errors can contribute to the morbidity and mortality of patients. In the scope of project 18HLT08 MeDD II - Metrology for drug delivery, this investigation aims at the development of a silicon microchip flow pump capable of steadily and continuously dispense very low flow rates of a few nL min -1 . The fabrication methodologies explored here use a combination of typical cleanroom micro/nanofabrication techniques and off-the-shelf equipment. Preliminary tests show flow rates as low as 45 nL min -1 can be obtained in this microfluidic electroosmotic pump. The experimental flow rates are in good agreement with results predicted by multiphysics simulation, with less than 8% deviation ratio. This cost effective electroosmotic micropump has the potential to act as a steady and continuous drug delivery system to neonatal patients as well as to organs on chip (OoC), determining the stability of the shear stress imposed on the cells or the right cell culture medium conditions., (© 2022 the author(s), published by De Gruyter, Berlin/Boston.)

Growing evidence links COVID-19 with acute and long-term neurological dysfunction. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms resulting in central nervous system involvement remain unclear, posing both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Here we show outcomes of a cross-sectional clinical study (NCT04472013) including clinical and imaging data and corresponding multidimensional characterization of immune mediators in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma of patients belonging to different Neuro-COVID severity classes. The most prominent signs of severe Neuro-COVID are blood-brain barrier (BBB) impairment, elevated microglia activation markers and a polyclonal B cell response targeting self-antigens and non-self-antigens. COVID-19 patients show decreased regional brain volumes associating with specific CSF parameters, however, COVID-19 patients characterized by plasma cytokine storm are presenting with a non-inflammatory CSF profile. Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome strongly associates with a distinctive set of CSF and plasma mediators. Collectively, we identify several potentially actionable targets to prevent or intervene with the neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

The present study aimed to molecularly characterize Giardia duodenalis from stool samples of humans, dogs, and cats. Molecular analyses were performed on 59 samples that tested positive for G. duodenalis on coproparasitological examinations. After extraction, the samples were first tested by nested polymerase chain reaction (n-PCR) analysis of the SSU-rRNA gene, and for the samples that were positive, the β-giardin, TPI, and GDH genes were analyzed. The amplicons obtained in the n-PCR of the β-giardin gene were subjected to PCR-restriction length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis and subsequent digestion with the enzyme HaeIII to differentiate the assemblages. Seven (11.8 %), 34 (57.7 %), and 18 (30.5 %) out of 59 samples were from humans, dogs, and cats, respectively. Nested-PCR results showed that 49.2 % (29/59) of samples were positive for the SSU-rRNA gene, with 42.9 % (3/7) of humans, 55.9 % (19/34) of dogs, and 38.9 % (7/18) of catsve. Of the other genes analyzed, β-giardin was amplified most frequently, in 34.5 % (10/29) of samples, followed by GDH in 27.6 % (8/29) of samples, and TPI in 10.3 % (3/29) of samples. Only one sample from a dog showed the amplification of all genes. PCR-RFLP analysis showed assemblage F in a human, dog, and cat samples; and assemblage C and D in dog samples. This is the first description of assemblage F in humans from Brazil and the first description of assemblage F in dogs. Further studies are needed to verify the frequency with which these infections occur, and provide information that will contribute to the molecular epidemiological understanding of giardiasis., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest None., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

A patient-tailored, ex vivo drug response platform for glioblastoma (GBM) would facilitate therapy planning, provide insights into treatment-induced mechanisms in the immune tumor microenvironment (iTME), and enable the discovery of biomarkers of response. We cultured regionally annotated GBM explants in perfusion bioreactors to assess iTME responses to immunotherapy. Explants were treated with anti-CD47, anti-PD-1, or their combination, and analyzed by multiplexed microscopy [CO-Detection by indEXing (CODEX)], enabling the spatially resolved identification of >850,000 single cells, accompanied by explant secretome interrogation. Center and periphery explants differed in their cell type and soluble factor composition, and responses to immunotherapy. A subset of explants displayed increased interferon-γ levels, which correlated with shifts in immune cell composition within specified tissue compartments. Our study demonstrates that ex vivo immunotherapy of GBM explants enables an active antitumoral immune response within the tumor center and provides a framework for multidimensional personalized assessment of tumor response to immunotherapy.

Neosporosis, an infectious disease caused by the protozoan Neospora caninum, has been associated with economic losses in cattle rearing worldwide. However, previous studies have not presented any evidence regarding the association between serological status of neosporosis and alteration of the reproductive parameters. Thus, this study aimed to determine whether N. caninum is associated with reproductive disorders and to evaluate the possible risk factors of the infection. Blood samples from 202 dairy cows, 51 with a history of reproductive disorders (case group) and 151 without (control group), were collected from different farms in Brazil. Epidemiological questionnaires were conducted with all the farmers. Serum samples were subjected to an indirect fluorescent antibody test to detect antibodies against the parasite. In total, 28.22% (57/202) of the cows were seropositive: 47.06% (24/51) from the case group and 21.85% (33/151) from the control group. By logistic regression, cows aged ≥48 months and cows with history of abortion were 4.8 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.91-12.05; p = 0.001) and 2.3 (95% CI = 1.06-5.1; p = 0.034) times more likely to be seropositive, respectively. Furthermore, our results show an association between N. caninum seropositivity and abortion in dairy cows from Brazil with poor management conditions and N. caninum seropositivity risk factors for reproductive disorders., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The present study aimed to perform an epidemiological and morphological identification of Eimeria infection in sheep in Brazil. Fecal samples from sheep were collected from 20 farms in northern Paraná, Brazil. An epidemiological questionnaire was used to evaluate the risk factors. Fecal samples containing oocysts per gram of feces (OoPG) ≥1000 were subjected to the modified Willis-Mollay method to perform oocyst identification. Sporulated oocysts were observed microscopically for morphological identification. A total of 807 fecal samples were collected. Based on the morphological characteristics of the sporulated oocysts, 10 species of Eimeria were identified, with main species observed: Eimeira ovinoidalis (98.1%), Eimeria crandallis (87.6%), Eimeria parva (79.1%), and Eimeria bakuensis (60.8%). Only 2.6% (7/268) of the sheep were infected with a single species, 4.8% (13/268) contained two different species, and 92.5% (248/268) were infected with three or more species. The analysis of risk factors showed that an intensive rearing, no rotation of pasture, dirt, and slatted floors, and age up to 12 months were associated with infection. This study showed a high prevalence of Eimeria natural infection in sheep from northern Paraná, Brazil. Furthermore, based on the risk factors, good management and hygiene practices must be employed to avoid infection.

We estimated the seroprevalence and possible risk factors for neosporosis and toxoplasmosis in goats in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. In addition, the variables related to these animals and the management of the farm were investigated in terms of the significance of the associations. In total, 383 serum samples from goats, of both sexes and different ages, were collected from 15 farms in four municipalities. The indirect immunofluorescence test was used for antibody detection against Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii. The overall seroprevalence of N. caninum in goats was 26.4% (101/382; IC 95% 22.3-31.1), and 114 out of 383 serum samples were T. gondii-seropositive (29.8%, IC 95% 25.4-34.5). In addition, the seroprevalence of coinfection of T. gondii and N. caninum in goats was 8.6% (33/382; IC 95% 6.2-11.8). The risk factors significantly associated with the seroprevalence of N. caninum were age, type of sheepfold floor, rearing system, feeding, pasture area cultivated, cats having access to the feed deposits, worming, slaughter place of the animals, history of abortion and the presence of dogs and cats. Regarding the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection, age, category, presence of other species and purpose of breeding were the risk factors. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the seroprevalence and risk factors for N. caninum and T. gondii in goats in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, which provides basic data for the implementation of strategies and control measures against neosporosis and toxoplasmosis., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Although the importance of older citizens' civic engagement has been highlighted in research and policy, the topic remains underexplored. In this study, we discuss older Portuguese citizens' motivations for civic engagement. The research is based on interviews with eighteen participants aged over 60, who are retired but active in civic organisations, in which they hold or have held leadership positions. We employed thematic analysis to examine the qualitative data. The findings suggest a range of motivations for participation, with personal and ideological/political motives emerging as relevant for involvement, retention and leaving, and interpersonal relationships motivating involvement and retention. However, the specific motivations differ as a function of not only the stages of involvement/retention/leaving, but also the type of organisation and the participants' life experiences. There are notable differences between the motivations for involvement in cultural and recreational organisations, neighbourhood organisations and volunteer programmes, where the emphasis is on fostering interpersonal relationships, and the more ideological/political motivations that appear as determinant within political and activist organisations. As such, this study brings a more complex understanding of the range of motivations for civic engagement in later life, with significant implications for fostering older citizens' mobilisation and sustained engagement., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Felines are definitive hosts of Toxoplasma gondii and can shed oocysts in their feces, contaminating the environment. Sporulated oocysts are highly resistant to the environment and have higher infectivity, which are attributed to many toxoplasmosis outbreaks. The aim of the present study was to evaluate a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technique for the detection of T. gondii oocysts shed by cats. Twelve cats from a previous vaccine experiment were challenged orally with 600 cysts of the TgDoveBr8 strain on day 72. Fecal samples were collected daily using the centrifugal flotation technique, with microscopic examination (Sheather technique) and qPCR for 20 days after the challenge. Cats from all groups shed oocysts in their feces. Five negative cats in the Sheather were positive according to qPCR on the 3rd day post-inoculation (dpi). Oocysts were detected on the 4th dpi using the Sheather; however, there was no statistical difference between the two methods (p=0.1116). In addition, there was no statistically significant difference in oocyst shedding between the groups according to the Sheather technique (p=0.6534) and qPCR (p=0.9670). In conclusion, these results demonstrate that qPCR can be used as an alternative to the Sheather to detect and quantify T. gondii oocysts.

The present study aimed to compare different indirect and direct diagnostic techniques to diagnose Toxoplasma gondii in free-range chickens. Samples of 386 chickens obtained from 24 Paraná properties were used for serological analysis by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT), modified agglutination test (MAT), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Animals positive by IFAT and/or MAT had their tissues submitted to the mouse bioassay, and those who were positive in this technique had their blood, tissues, and acidic pepsin tissue digestion submitted to PCR (conventional, nested, and quantitative-PCR (qPCR)). One hundred and nineteen chickens (30.8 %) were positive in at least one of the serological tests, being 102 (26.4 %) in the IFAT, 64 (16.6 %) in the MAT, and 62 (16.0 %) in the ELISA. The IFAT was used as a gold standard, and the MAT showed higher sensitivity (46.0 %) and specificity (94.0) compared to ELISA (43.5 % and 93.6 %, respectively). Ninety samples of eighteen chickens positive in the mouse bioassay were subjected to PCR, and according to molecular tests, the conventional PCR detected the T. gondii DNA in 30 % (27/90) of the samples, in 38.8 % (35/90) with nested-PCR and 40.0 % (36/90) with real-time. According to molecular analyzes, the sensitivity was higher in ITS1 nested-PCR (69.4 %) and specificity in conventional PCR-529bp (90.7 %), using the qPCR as the gold standard. MAT and ELISA had similarities in concordance analyzes. The IFAT was the serological technique with the highest agreement with the mouse bioassay, and serological tests in parallel showed to be a good screening option for the isolation of T. gondii in chick tissues. The PCR markers effectively detected the parasite DNA, and the heart was the tissue with the highest number of positives samples. The conventional PCR had sensitivity similar to nested-PCR and qPCR and could be a cheaper alternative to diagnose T. gondii infection in chicken tissues., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Due to its dynamic nature, the evolution of cancer cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) crosstalk, critically affecting metastasis and treatment resistance, remains elusive. Our results show that platinum-chemotherapy itself enhances resistance by progressively changing the cancer cell-intrinsic adhesion signaling and cell-surrounding ECM. Examining ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) transcriptome and histology, we describe the fibrotic ECM heterogeneity at primary tumors and distinct metastatic sites, prior and after chemotherapy. Using cell models from systematic ECM screen to collagen-based 2D and 3D cultures, we demonstrate that both specific ECM substrates and stiffness increase resistance to platinum-mediated, apoptosis-inducing DNA damage via FAK and β1 integrin-pMLC-YAP signaling. Among such substrates around metastatic HGSCs, COL6 was upregulated by chemotherapy and enhanced the resistance of relapse, but not treatment-naïve, HGSC organoids. These results identify matrix adhesion as an adaptive response, driving HGSC aggressiveness via co-evolving ECM composition and sensing, suggesting stromal and tumor strategies for ECM pathway targeting.

Tumor-associated microglia (MG) and macrophages (MΦ) are important components of the glioblastoma (GBM) immune tumor microenvironment (iTME). From the recent advances in understanding how MG and GBM cells evolve and interact during tumorigenesis, we emphasize the cooperation of MG with other immune cell types of the GBM-iTME, mainly MΦ and T cells. We provide a comprehensive overview of current immunotherapeutic clinical trials and approaches for the treatment of GBM, which in general, underestimate the counteracting contribution of immunosuppressive MG as a main factor for treatment failure. Furthermore, we summarize new developments and strategies in MG reprogramming/re-education in the GBM context, with a focus on ways to boost MG-mediated tumor cell phagocytosis and associated experimental models and methods. This ultimately converges in our proposal of novel combinatorial regimens that locally modulate MG as a central paradigm, and therefore may lead to additional, long-lasting, and effective tumoricidal responses., (Copyright © 2020 Martins, Schmassmann, Shekarian, Boulay, Ritz, Zanganeh, vom Berg and Hutter.)

Black NiO powders were prepared by a hydrothermal method. Moreover, the visible light-driven Ag 3 PO 4 /NiO photocatalyst composites were successfully synthesized by in situ precipitation method. These samples were structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement. The strong interaction between the phases and the defects in the samples was affected by the formation of the composites, as identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy exhibited enhanced light absorption for all Ag 3 PO 4 /NiO composites, suggesting the effective interaction between the phases. Moreover, field-emission scanning electron microscopy images revealed the presence of NiO microflowers composed of nanoflakes in contact with Ag 3 PO 4 microparticles. The composite with 5% NiO presented enhanced photocatalytic efficiency in comparison with pure Ag 3 PO 4 , degrading 96% of rhodamine B (RhB) dye in just 15 min under visible light; however, the recycling experiments confirmed that the composite with 75% NiO showed superior stability. The recombination of the electron-hole pairs was considered for the measurement of the photoluminescence of the samples. These measurements were performed to evaluate the possible causes for the difference in the photocatalytic responses of the composites. From these experimental results, possible photocatalytic mechanisms for RhB degradation over Ag 3 PO 4 /NiO composites under visible-light irradiation were proposed., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (Copyright © 2020 American Chemical Society.)

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite with a wide range of hosts, including humans. However, only a few Cryptosporidium species have been described in birds (C. meleagridis, C. baileyi, C. galli and C. avium). The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in feces of eared doves (Zenaida auriculata), followed by molecular characterization of the parasite. A total of 196 animals of both sexes were trap-captured; the animals were culled and the intestinal contents were collected for DNA extraction. After extraction, a nested-PCR (nPCR), which amplifies a fragment of the 18S rRNA gene of Cryptosporidium spp., was performed. The amplicons obtained were purified and sequenced. PCR analysis revealed that 30 animals (15.3%) were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. There was no significant sex-dependent enrichment of Cryptosporidium occurrence (p > 0.05). Only 15 out of the 30 positive samples were successfully sequenced and their species determined, of which, 13 (86.7%) and 2 (13.3%) were C. meleagridis and C. galli, respectively. Herein, we present for the first time a molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium from feces of eared doves (Z. auriculata) and propose that these birds are a potential source of C. meleagridis infection in humans.

Defect-related luminescent materials have attracted interest because of their excellent optical properties and are considered as a less expensive and nontoxic alternative to commonly used lanthanide-based optical systems. These materials are fundamentally and technologically important for the next generation of full-color tunable light-emitting diodes as well as in the biomedical field. In this study, we report the preparation of α-silver vanadate (α-AgVO 3 , AV) decorated by hydroxyapatite (Ca 10 (PO 4 ) 6 (OH) 2 , HA) with intense photoluminescence (PL) emissions at various HA/AV molar ratios (1:1-1:1/32) by a simple route based on chemical precipitation. The well-defined diffraction peaks observed by X-ray diffraction were all indexed to the monoclinic AV and hexagonal HA phases. Analysis of the results obtained by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reveals the presence of short-range structural order as deduced by the characteristic vibrational modes assigned to AV and HA systems. Characterization by scanning and transmission electron microscopies confirms the presence of AV and HA micro- and nanorods, respectively. UV-vis spectroscopy renders band gap energies of 5.80 eV for HA and in the range 2.59-2.65 eV for pure AV and HA/AV samples. The PL data reveal the presence of broad-band emission profiles, typical of defect-related optical centers in materials. Depending on the molar ratio, the emission can be completely tunable from the blue to red spectral regions; in addition, pure white color emission was obtained. On the basis of these results, we propose an order-disorder model induced by structural and interface defects to explain the PL emissions in the HA/AV system. Moreover, our results show that HA/AV composites have superior bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible) and can be used as a novel multifunctional material.

Objective: Estimating HIV prevalence and describing the incentives and barriers for HIV testing among female sex workers., Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 402 women aged 18 years or older, residing in Fortaleza, state of Ceará, Brazil, who reported having had sexual intercourse in exchange for money in last four months. The sample was recruited using Respondent Driven Sampling, between August and November 2010., Results: The 84.1% of the sample tested and the estimated prevalence of HIV infection was 3.8%. The sample was young (25 to 39 years ), single (80.0%), with one to three children (83.6%), had eight or more years of schooling (65.7%), and belonged to social classes D/E (53.1%). The majority worked in fixed locations (bars, motels, hotels, sauna - 88.9%), and prostitution was their only source of income (54.1%). About 25% of the sample did not know where to test in the public health sector and 51.8% either never tested or hadn't tested for over a year or more. The main reported barriers to testing were the perceptions that there was no risk of becoming infected (24.1%), and, alternatively, fear of discrimination if the test was positive (20.5%). Incentives for testing were the greater availability of testing sites (57.0%) and health facilities with alternative schedules (44.2%)., Conclusions: Prevalence for HIV was similar to that found in other Brazilian cities in different regions of the country, although higher than the general female population. Non-traditional venues not associated with the health system and availability of testing in health units during non-commercial hours are factors that encourage testing. Not considering oneself to be at risk, fear of being discriminated against and not knowing testing locations are barriers.

Cryptosporidium can infect a wide variety of vertebrate animals, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. There are few molecular characterizations of Cryptosporidium isolated from water buffalo. Thus, the present study investigated the occurrence and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in water buffalos by nested-PCR. Non-diarrheic feces were obtained from 122 water buffalo calves. All samples were tested by nested-PCR based on the 18S rRNA gene, after which positive samples were analyzed by RFLP and genetic sequencing. Sixteen fecal (13.1%) samples were positive, and RFLP showed that fifteen presented patterns consistent with C. ryanae and one with C. parvum. Sequencing of the gp60 gene from the C. parvum positive sample indicated the subtype IIaA20G1R1. This is the first identification of the IIaA20G1R1 subtype in water buffalos., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite that can infect all warm-blooded animals including humans. Recent studies showed that T. gondii strains from South America are genetically diverse. The present work aimed to determine T. gondii prevalence in free-ranging chicken in northwest Parana state in Brazil by two serological tests, to isolate the parasites from seropositive chickens and to genotype the isolates. Antibodies to T. gondii in 386 serum samples from 24 farms were investigated by immunofluorescence antibody assay (IFA) and modified agglutination test (MAT). Samples having titers ≥ 16 were considered positive for both tests. Among the 386 serum samples, 102 (26.4%) were positive for IFA, 64 (16.6%) were positive for MAT, 47 (12.2%) were positive in both tests, and 119 (30.8%) were positive in at least one of the two tests. Brain and pool of heart, lung, and liver from the 119 seropositive chickens were used for mouse bioassay to isolate the parasites. Thirty eight (31.9%) of these seropositive chickens were considered positives in mouse bioassay and 18 isolates were obtained. The isolates were characterized by 10 PCR-RFLP genetic markers including SAG1, SAG2 (5'-3'SAG2, alt.SAG2), SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, and Apico. Results of genotyping were compared with the genotypes in ToxoDB database. It revealed ten genotypes, including ToxoDB PCR-RFLP genotypes #6 (n = 2), #19 (n = 1), #21 (n = 2), #111 (n = 2), #152 (n = 1), and #175 (n = 1) and four new types not described before. Our results confirmed a high genetic diversity of this parasite in southern Brazil and also showed that the use of two serological tests in combination can improve the chance of T. gondii isolation. More studies should be taken to determine the zoonotic potential of chickens in the transmission of T. gondii.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the re-shedding of T. gondii oocysts in cats fed tissue cysts of homologous and heterologous strains 12, 24 and 36 months after the first infection. Thirteen cats were used in the present study and were divided into four groups: G1 (n=2), G2 (n=3), G3 (n=5), and G4 (n=3). G1, G3 and G4 cats were infected with brain cysts of ME49 and G2 with TgDoveBr8, both genotype II strains of T. gondii. The G1 and G2 cats were re-infected after twelve months with brain cysts of VEG strain (genotype III), and G3 cats were re-infected with TgDoveBr1 (genotype II). The G3 cats were re-infected a third time after 24 months from the second infection, and the G4 cats were re-infected 36 months after the initial infection with cysts of the VEG strain. The cats' feces were evaluated using fecal flotation and genotyped with PCR-RFLP. The serological responses for IgM, IgA and IgG were determined by ELISA. All cats shed oocysts after the initial infection. Only one G1 cat shed oocysts when re-infected after twelve months with the VEG strain. No G2 cats excreted oocysts after the second infection with VEG. G3 cats, when re-infected after twelve months with the TgDoveBr1 strain, did not shed oocysts. However, when challenged after a third time with the VEG strain, three out of four cats shed oocysts. In the G4 group, when re-infected after thirty-six months with the VEG strain, two out of three cats shed oocysts. All oocyst samples were genotyped and characterized as the same genotype from the inoculum. Protection against oocyst re-excretion occurred in 90%, 25%, and 33.4% of cats after 12, 24, and 36 months from the initial infection, respectively. Therefore, the environmental contamination by oocysts from re-infected adult cats is only 30% lower than from kittens. In conclusion, the excretion of T. gondii oocysts was higher in experimentally re-infected cats throughout the years, especially when a heterologous strain was used., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Bovine coccidiosis is a disease of major importance in cattle herds across the world. The disorder mainly affects young calves, and E. bovis and E. zuernii are considered the most pathogenic species of the genus, however, E. alabamensis have been described in grazing calves. In this study, the prevalence of Eimeria spp. was evaluated in calves on dairy farms in the northern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Four hundred calves on 44 dairy farms were tested for the presence of coccidian oocysts. The positives were re-examined and the oocysts were morphometrically analyzed for species identification. All the farms were contaminated and 205 animals (51.25%) presented Eimeria spp. oocysts. Among these, 146 animals (71.22%) were co-infected by two or more species of coccidia. Ten species of Eimeria were identified: E. bovis (in 30.25% of the positive samples), E. alabamensis (26.75%), E. zuernii (22.00%), E. ellipsoidalis (18.50%), E. auburnensis (13.75%), E. canadensis (8.00%), E. cylindrica (7.25%), E. subspherica (5.00%), E. bukidnonensis (3.00%) and E. brasiliensis (0.75%). This study demonstrates the high prevalence of Eimeria spp. in the northern region of Paraná, Brazil, and detection for the first time in our region the pathogenic species E. alabamensis.

Neosporosis is an infectious disease caused by Neospora caninum, a protozoan parasite that has worldwide distribution and is responsible for enormous economic losses in cattle. Birds are considered a good bioindicator of environmental contamination, since they feed on the ground, being exposed to N. caninum oocysts. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of antibodies against N. caninum and to verify the presence of parasite DNA in brain from free-ranging eared doves (Zenaida auriculata) from Southern Brazil. For this purpose, blood and brain samples were collected from 249 doves for ELISA and PCR analysis respectively. The prevalence of N. caninum antibodies in doves was 31.72% (79/249) and detection of parasite DNA was not observed in none of birds. This is the first report of antibodies against N. caninum in doves Z. auriculata, what show us that these birds had previously contact with the parasite but since no N. caninum DNA was detected, more studies should be performed to elucidate the real importance of doves in the epidemiologic cycle of the N. caninum., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Identify barriers and strategies for implementation of the protocol for managing tuberculosis/ human immunodeficiency virus (TB/HIV) coinfection in specialized care services in Ceará state, through evaluation research., Methods: The study followed iPIER methodology, a new initiative to help improve the implementation of health programs through the use of research that is conducted as a part of the implementation process. Data were collected on the structure and processes of 22 services and barriers were explored in four focus groups with 28 participants, from the standpoint of the health team, administrators, and users. The discussions were transcribed and interpreted with regard to the objectives of the study., Results: The information on structure and process revealed that six services manage TB/HIV coinfection and 16 do not. The barriers were: team members were unaware of the protocol; lack of clinical practice guidelines in the services; specialized care services working at all three levels of the health system; inadequate spaces for treatment of airborne diseases; and lack of communication with primary health care sectors for patient transfers. The results were discussed with teams and administrators in seminars held in the services and with program managers for sexually transmitted infections, human immunodeficiency virus, AIDS, hepatitis, and tuberculosis., Conclusions: Direct dialogue between administrators, implementers, users, and researchers generated knowledge about the services and led to joint preparation of modifications in workflow aimed at acceptance and use of the protocol; however, users continue to resist adherence to treatment.

There is a lack of information about alcohol use by transgender women. We estimated the prevalence of dangerous alcohol use in the last 12 months by transgender women, who are known as travestis in Brazil, and we identified the associated risk factors. Three hundred travestis were recruited using Respondent Driving Sampling (RDS). We applied the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). We controlled the sample by applying a weight to each interviewee. Three quarters (74.2%) of travestis were regular drinkers, half (48.7%) scored over eight in the AUDIT and 14.8% scored over 20. The risk factors for alcohol use were: aged over 24, low income and unprotected sex. The dangerous use of alcohol is prevalent among travestis. Given that this group has a greater risk of HIV infection and transmission, and that the dangerous use of alcohol was associated with unsafe sex, specific intervention strategies are required.

Transwomen are a high-risk population for HIV/AIDS worldwide. However, many transwomen do not test for HIV. This study aimed to identify factors associated with resistance to HIV testing among transwomen in Fortaleza/CE. A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and December 2008 with a sample of 304 transwomen recruited through respondent-driven sampling. Data analysis utilized Respondent-Driven Sampling Analysis Tool and SPSS 11.0. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses examined risk factors associated with resistance to HIV testing. Less than 18 years of age (OR = 4.221; CI = 2.419-7.364), sexual debut before 10 years of age (OR = 6.760; CI = 2.996-15.256), using illegal drugs during sex (OR = 2.384; CI = 1.310-4.339), experience of discrimination (OR = 3.962; CI = 1.540-10.195) and a belief that the test results were not confidential (OR = 3.763; CI = 2.118-6.688) are independently associated with resistance to testing. Intersectoral and targeted strategies aimed at encouraging the adoption of safer sexual behaviors and testing for HIV among transwomen are required.

This cross-sectional study checks specific self-care activities of patients with diabetes mellitus enrolled in a self-monitoring blood glucose program from August to December 2012 in two Primary Health Care units in the interior of São Paulo, Brazil.The sample was composed of 74 female and male individuals, aged 18 years old or older. The Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Questionnaire was used. It contains six dimensions: general diet, specific diet, physical activity, blood glucose monitoring, foot care, medication usage, plus three items about smoking. Eight out of the 15 self-care activities were within desirable levels, namely: healthy diet, not eating sweets, blood glucose testing and as frequently as recommended, drying between toes after washing feet, and taking medications (three items).The results enabled the identification of gaps in specific self-care activities among patients with diabetes mellitus.

The goal of this study was to assess the effects of anxiety and stress on sleep quality in liver transplantation recipients. A prospective cross-sectional study was performed including 45 recipients enrolled at a liver transplantation program at Ribeirão Preto, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Anxiety and stress were evaluated by using a reduced version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and the Perceived Stress Scale, respectively. Sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness were evaluated by using the Brazilian Portuguese versions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Thirty-two (71.11%) recipients presented with compromised sleep quality and 5 (11.11%) presented with excessive daytime sleepiness. Recipients with bad sleep quality had anxiety (mean, 26.91 points) and stress (mean, 17.88 points) levels that were higher than the levels of patients with normal sleep quality patterns, with anxiety levels presenting with statistically significant differences (P = .0420). Patients with above-average stress levels also had increased anxiety (mean, 28 points) and compromised sleep quality (mean, 7.03 points). In conclusion, a liver transplantation recipient who experiences bad sleep quality also has higher levels of anxiety and stress, suggesting a relationship between the sleep-wakefulness cycle and anxiety/stress. Planning strategies aimed at reducing such emotional shifts among recipients is of paramount importance. Therefore, new strategies focusing on improving the sleep pattern of patients are necessary because unhealthy sleep behavior may impair postoperative recovery., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) has recently emerged as a promising source of natural antioxidants. Despite its claimed pharmacological and nutraceutical value, studies regarding the effects of açaí in vivo are limited. In this study, we use the Caenorhabditis elegans model to evaluate the in vivo antioxidant properties of açaí on an organismal level and to examine its mechanism of action. Supplementation with açaí aqueous extract (AAE) increased both oxidative and osmotic stress resistance independently of any effect on reproduction and development. AAE suppressed bacterial growth, but this antimicrobial property did not influence stress resistance. AAE-increased stress resistance was correlated with reduced ROS production, the prevention of sulfhydryl (SH) level reduction and gcs-1 activation under oxidative stress conditions. Our mechanistic studies indicated that AAE promotes oxidative stress resistance by acting through DAF-16 and the osmotic stress response pathway OSR-1/UNC-43/SEK-1. Finally, AAE increased polyglutamine protein aggregation and decreased proteasome activity. Our findings suggest that natural compounds available in AAE can improve the antioxidant status of a whole organism under certain conditions by direct and indirect mechanisms.

Background: Current chemotherapy for Chagas disease is unsatisfactory due to its limited efficacy, particularly in the chronic phase, with frequent side effects that can lead to treatment discontinuation. Combined therapy is envisioned as an ideal approach since it may improve treatment efficacy whilst decreasing toxicity and the likelihood of resistance development. We evaluated the efficacy of posaconazole in combination with benznidazole on Trypanosoma cruzi infection in vivo., Methods and Findings: Benznidazole and posaconazole were administered individually or in combination in an experimental acute murine infection model. Using a rapid treatment protocol for 7 days, the combined treatments were more efficacious in reducing parasitemia levels than the drugs given alone, with the effects most evident in combinations of sub-optimal doses of the drugs. Subsequently, the curative action of these drug combinations was investigated, using the same infection model and 25, 50, 75 or 100 mg/kg/day (mpk) of benznidazole in combination with 5, 10 or 20 mpk of posaconazole, given alone or concomitantly for 20 days. The effects of the combination treatments on parasitological cures were higher than the sum of such effects when the drugs were administered separately at the same doses, indicating synergistic activity. Finally, sequential therapy experiments were carried out with benznidazole or posaconazole over a short interval (10 days), followed by the second drug administered for the same period of time. It was found that the sequence of benznidazole (100 mpk) followed by posaconazole (20 mpk) provided cure rates comparable to those obtained with the full (20 days) treatments with either drug alone, and no cure was observed for the short treatments with drugs given alone., Conclusions: Our data demonstrate the importance of investigating the potential beneficial effects of combination treatments with marketed compounds, and showed that combinations of benznidazole with posaconazole have a positive interaction in murine models of Chagas disease.

Objectives: The cardiac form of Chagas disease is evidenced by a progressive cardiac inflammation that leads to myocarditis, fibrosis and electrocardiographic (ECG) conduction abnormalities. Considering these characteristics, the aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the early ECG changes in dogs that were experimentally inoculated with Benznidazole (Bz)-susceptibly (Berenice-78) and Bz-resistant (VL-10, and AAS) Trypanosoma cruzi strains and, later, evaluate the efficacy of Bz treatment for preventing these ECG alterations., Methods: Electrocardiographic changes of treated and untreated animals were prospectively evaluated for up to 270 days after infection, at which point collagen (right atrium) quantification was performed., Results: All infected dogs had a high intensity of heart fibrosis (4616.00 ± 1715.82 collagen/74931 μm(2) in dogs infected with Berenice-78 strain, 5839.2 ± 1423.49 collagen/74931 μm(2) in infected by AAS and 6294.40 ± 896.04 collagen/74931 μm(2) in animals infected with VL-10 strain), while 78.57% of all infected dogs showed ECG alterations. Bz Therapy reduced or prevented fibrosis in Bz-susceptible Berenice-78 (2813.00 ± 607.13 collagen/74931 μm(2) ) and Bz-resistant AAS strains (4024 ± 1272.44 collagen/74931 μm(2) ), coincident with only 10% de ECG alterations at 270 days. However, in those animals infected with a Bz-resistant VL-10 strain, specific treatment did not alter collagen deposition (6749.5 ± 1596.35 collagen/74931 μm(2) ) and there was first atrioventricular block and chamber overload at 120 and 270 days after infection, with 75% abnormal ECG exams., Conclusions: These findings indicate that an effective antiparasitic treatment in the early stage of Chagas disease can lead to a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of the parasite-induced cardiac disease, even if parasites are not completely eliminated., (© 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

Travestis are highly vulnerable to HIV infection in Brazil. We conducted a survey among 304 travestis using Respondent-Driven Sampling from August to December 2008. Travestis are young (49% <24 years), poorly educated (55% just elementary school), low social class (62% Class C-E), reside with families (49%) or friends/madam (22%), are victims of homophobia (91%) and violence (61%). They report early sexual debut (75% <14), many sexual partners, drug use during sex (43%), and unprotected sex (male partner, 47%, both male and female partners, 50%). Sex work is common (82%, 59% >10 partners last six months) and relatively low cost (median=US$24). A majority report testing for HIV (69%), and report high prevalence (12% disclosed a positive result). Almost all the respondents refused to test in the study. Interventions, targeted to both travestis and to the general community about sexual discrimination, are necessary.

This chapter briefly describes the concepts underlying medical imaging reconstruction and the requirements for its integration with subsequent applications as BioCAD, rapid prototyping (RP), and rapid manufacturing (RM) of implants, scaffolds, or organs. As an introduction to the problem, principles related to data acquisition, enhancement, segmentation, and interpolation are discussed. After this, some available three-dimensional medical reconstruction software tools are presented. Finally, applications of these technologies are illustrated.

Background: New safe and effective treatments for Chagas disease (CD) are urgently needed. Current chemotherapy options for CD have significant limitations, including failure to uniformly achieve parasitological cure or prevent the chronic phase of CD, and safety and tolerability concerns. Fexinidazole, a 2-subsituted 5-nitroimidazole drug candidate rediscovered following extensive compound mining by the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative and currently in Phase I clinical study for the treatment of human African trypanosomiasis, was evaluated in experimental models of acute and chronic CD caused by different strains of Trypanosoma cruzi., Methods and Findings: We investigated the in vivo activity of fexinidazole against T. cruzi, using mice as hosts. The T. cruzi strains used in the study were previously characterized in murine models as susceptible (CL strain), partially resistant (Y strain), and resistant (Colombian and VL-10 strains) to the drugs currently in clinical use, benznidazole and nifurtimox. Our results demonstrated that fexinidazole was effective in suppressing parasitemia and preventing death in infected animals for all strains tested. In addition, assessment of definitive parasite clearance (cure) through parasitological, PCR, and serological methods showed cure rates of 80.0% against CL and Y strains, 88.9% against VL-10 strain, and 77.8% against Colombian strain among animals treated during acute phase, and 70% (VL-10 strain) in those treated in chronic phase. Benznidazole had a similar effect against susceptible and partially resistant T. cruzi strains. Fexinidazole treatment was also shown to reduce myocarditis in all animals infected with VL-10 or Colombian resistant T. cruzi strains, although parasite eradication was not achieved in all treated animals at the tested doses., Conclusions: Fexinidazole is an effective oral treatment of acute and chronic experimental CD caused by benznidazole-susceptible, partially resistant, and resistant T. cruzi. These findings illustrate the potential of fexinidazole as a drug candidate for the treatment of human CD.

This study attempts to survey the investigations about the representations of homeopathy on the State of Espírito Santo scene. The point of departure was an analysis of six studies of the kind, in which the subjects were professionals acting in the area of health and community members. One of the six studies surveyed society as a whole and a second one focused on users of homeopathic medicaments. Yet both groups of respondents represented homeopathy as natural or phytotherapic treatment, essentially directed to controlling or curing allergy and other diseases which were classified as minor. As to the health professionals, all studies but one referred to the alopaths. Among the alopaths, the ideas expressed by the subjects, pharmacists apart, were identical to those expressed by the community members. Viewed as a specialized discipline, homeopathy is a social phenomenon that provokes representations which undergo changes as they circulate in society. Our study holds that all misinterpretations about the nature and role of homeopathy detected in the community's responses as well as in the scientific domain, in the State of Espírito Santo, are historical reminiscences which go back to the time when homeopathy was introduced in Brazil and, even today, the contents of homeopathy are still absent in most health courses.

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the self-care ability of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to relate this capacity with some sociodemographic and clinical variables. Participants were 251 patients who attended the Emergency Service at the Mérida Regional Hospital in Yucatán, Mexico, in 2006. Data were obtained through directed home interviews, using a form, a questionnaire and the Self-Care Capacity Scale. Descriptive and correlation statistics were used for data analysis. The results showed 83 (33.5%) subjects with good and 168 (66.5%) subjects with regular ability. A directly proportional correlation was found between self-care ability and years of study (r = 0.124; p < 0.05), as well as a negative correlation for religion (rs = -0.435; p < 0.05) and evolution time of the disease (r = -0.667; p < 0.05). These variables should be taken into account to promote self-care for diabetes patients, and further research needs to be developed with a focus on other variables involved in the behavior adopted to benefit their health.

This study examines the self-care ability of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and relates it to sociodemographic and clinical variables. The study included 251 patients who were cared for by an emergency service in Mexico, in 2007. Data were obtained through structured interviews held at participants' households, through a form, a questionnaire and the Self-Care Ability Scale. Descriptive and correlation statistics were used for data analysis. The results show that 83 (33.5%) individuals displayed good self-care ability and 168 (66.5%) individuals displayed regular ability. A directly proportional correlation was found between self-care ability and schooling (r=0.124; p<0.05), as well as a negative correlation for religion (rs=-0.435; p<0.05) and duration of disease evolution (r=-0.667; p<0.05). The conclusion is that most of the individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus displayed regular ability for self-care. Self-care ability is related to multiple variables that should be taken into account by health professionals when suggesting educational programs.