Knowledge and perception about the welfare and mistreatment of dogs in Brazil

by Gabriela Ferreira Siano, Camila Stefanie Fonseca de Oliveira, Felipe Gaia de Sousa, Suzane Lilian Beier, Adriane Pimenta da Costa-Val

Animal welfare encompasses the overall well-being of an animal, spanning both its physical and mental health, assessable through potential measurements. It stands in contrast to mistreatment, which involves actions, direct or indirect, that endanger an animal’s well-being. This study sought to appraise the factors influencing the Brazilian population’s understanding of dog welfare and mistreatment. The survey questions were adapted from the Animal Welfare Examination Protocol, utilized by veterinarians to evaluate suspected passive abuse cases in dogs. Out of 1377 responses, 1353 were valid and analyzed. Among the 19 assessed indicators, 15 demonstrated an adequate response rate surpassing 90% of all 1353 responses. However, for three questions related to comfort, a smaller yet notable percentage of responses were only minimally adequate. Moreover, in one question within the comfort assessment, 186 participants (13.74%) provided inadequate responses. This implies that these people could potentially subject animals to a state of low Animal Welfare. Lack of knowledge emerged as a potential root of passive abuse, specifically negligence. In the assessment of nutritional indicators, water supply and quality received unanimous adequate responses. In evaluating comfort perceptions, significant associations were noted between gender, dog ownership, family income, and responses regarding resting surface. Regarding health indicators, the majority responded appropriately. Female gender and dog ownership correlated with providing the appropriate response, while not owning a dog was associated with minimally adequate responses. In the context of comfort indicators, "Hitting the Dog" also demonstrated an association with gender, with females tending towards appropriate responses. Given the lack of significant correlation between educational levels and the most suitable responses, it underscores the urgency of implementing environmental education programs in schools with a focus on animal protection.

The role of orthobiologics in chronic wound healing

Abstract

Chronic wounds, characterized by prolonged healing processes, pose a significant medical challenge with multifaceted aetiologies, including local and systemic factors. Here, it explores the complex pathogenesis of chronic wounds, emphasizing the disruption in the normal phases of wound healing, particularly the inflammatory phase, leading to an imbalance in extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics and persistent inflammation. Senescent cell populations further contribute to impaired wound healing in chronic lesions. Traditional medical management focuses on addressing underlying causes, but many chronic wounds resist to conventional treatments, necessitating innovative approaches. Recent attention has turned to autologous orthobiologics, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), as potential regenerative interventions. These biologically derived materials, including bone marrow aspirate/concentrate (BMA/BMAC) and adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs), exhibit promising cytokine content and regenerative potential. MSCs, in particular, have emerged as key players in wound healing, influencing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration. This paper reviews relevant scientific literature regarding basic science and brings real-world evidence regarding the use of orthobiologics in the treatment of chronic wounds, irrespective of aetiology. The discussion highlights the regenerative properties of PRP, PRF, BMA, BMAC and SVF, showcasing their potential to enhance wound healing. Despite advancements, further research is essential to elucidate the specific roles of each orthobiologic and determine optimal applications for different wound types. The conclusion underscores the evolving landscape in chronic wound management, with a call for more comprehensive studies to refine treatment strategies and maximize the benefits of regenerative medicine.

Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with Pilates-based exercises in the treatment of chronic low back pain in outpatient rehabilitation service in Brazil: double-blind randomised controlled trial protocol

Introduction

Chronic low back pain may be associated with pathoanatomical, neurophysiological, physical, psychological and social factors; thus, treatments to reduce symptoms are important to improve the quality of life of this population. We aimed to evaluate the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with Pilates-based exercises compared with sham stimulation on pain, quality of life and disability in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.

Methods and analysis

This is a protocol for a double-blind randomised controlled trial with participants, outcome assessor and statistician blinded. We will include 36 individuals with a history of non-specific chronic low back pain for more than 12 weeks and minimum pain intensity of 3 points on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Individuals will be randomised into two groups: (1) active tDCS combined with Pilates-based exercises and (2) sham tDCS combined with Pilates-based exercises. Three weekly sessions of the protocol will be provided for 4 weeks, and individuals will be submitted to three assessments: the first (T0) will be performed before the intervention protocol, the second (T1) immediately after the intervention protocol and the third (T2) will be a follow-up 1 month after the end of the intervention. We will assess pain, disability, central sensitisation, quality of life, pressure pain threshold, global impression of change, adverse events and medication use. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire will be used at T1 to assess pain and disability, respectively, as primary outcome measures.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial was prospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov website and ethically approved by the Ethics and Research Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi (report number: 5.411.244) before data collection. We will publish the results in a peer-reviewed medical journal and on institution websites.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05467566).

Aprendizaje generado a partir de la pandemia COVID-19 en enfermeros

Introducción: La enfermería brasileña parece haber alcanzado importantes niveles de aprendizaje durante la pandemia, no solo por la necesidad de controlar la circulación del nuevo coronavirus y cuidar a los enfermos. Objetivo: Conocer los aprendizajes generados a partir de la pandemia de COVID-19 entre las enfermeras. Métodos: estudio exploratorio y cualitativo, realizado en agosto y septiembre de 2021, con enfermeros de tercer nivel de salud que estuvieron en primera línea durante la pandemia, en el Estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. Se realizaron entrevistas individuales, a partir de preguntas orientadoras. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó el discurso del sujeto colectivo. Resultados: Como aprendizajes generados, los participantes señalaron aspectos profesionales (teórico/práctico), así como aspectos personales (reflejo del valor del ser humano, familia y realización profesional). Conclusión: Los aprendizajes proporcionados por la pandemia, si bien contribuye a la percepción de que ante la inseguridad y la incertidumbre es posible aprender y desarrollarse, enfatiza la condición de fortaleza del enfermero, que inicialmente durante la pandemia se vio debilitado, pero que se potenció la sensibilidad a nuevos descubrimientos, confrontaciones y fortalecimiento de sus recursos individuales y colectivos.

Intranasal antihistamines and corticosteroids in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

Introduction

Intranasal antihistamines and corticosteroids are some of the most frequently used drug classes in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. However, there is uncertainty as to whether effectiveness differences may exist among different intranasal specific medications. This systematic review aims to analyse and synthesise all evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the effectiveness of intranasal antihistamines and corticosteroids in rhinitis nasal and ocular symptoms and in rhinoconjunctivitis-related quality-of-life.

Methods and analysis

We will search four electronic bibliographic databases and three clinical trials databases for RCTs (1) assessing patients ≥12 years old with seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis and (2) comparing the use of intranasal antihistamines or corticosteroids versus placebo. Assessed outcomes will include the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS), the Total Ocular Symptom Score (TOSS) and the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (RQLQ). We will assess the methodological quality of included primary studies by using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Certainty in the body of evidence for the analysed outcomes will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. We will perform a random-effects meta-analysis for each assessed medication and outcome, presenting results as pooled mean differences and standardised mean differences. Heterogeneity will be explored by sensitivity and subgroup analyses, considering (1) the risk of bias, (2) the follow-up period and (3) the drug dose.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical considerations will not be required. Results will be disseminated in a peer-review journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023416573.

Effects of working in vulnerable contexts on the mental health of primary healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study

Objective

The objective of this study is to analyse the relationship and psychosocial issues between working during the COVID-19 pandemic in primary healthcare (PHC) facilities located in the most vulnerable health region (HR) of the Federal District of Brazil (FDB) compared with a lesser region.

Design

Mixed-method study data. The questionnaire was based on the World Health Survey and the Convid Behavioural Survey. Quantitative data were described in absolute and relative frequency. Pearson’s ² test verified differences according to the region (significance level

Setting

A representative sample of PHC professionals working at the Western HR and Central HR of the FDB.

Participants

111 women and 27 male PHC professionals, aged ≥ 18 years.

Outcome measures

Psychosocial variables—personal emotions towards the clients, social relationships and use of psychoactive substances (PAS).

Intervention

An online questionnaire (27 questions) and 1 open-ended question.

Results

The sample comprised 138 PHC professionals; 80.40% were female aged between 40 and 49 years old (27.3%); declared themselves as black/pardo (58.7%); were married (53.60%), and worked in family healthcare teams (47.80%). No association between working in the most vulnerable HR compared with the least one and presenting psychosocial issues, except for anger towards clients (p=0.043). 55.10% worked much more than usual, 60.80% reported being depressed, 78.20% anxious, 76.80% stressed, 77.50% had no empathy and 78.30% felt isolated from family/friends. Towards the clients, 59.40% reported empathy and 72.5% no affection/care. The consume of psychotropic medications was reported by 34.80%, and 14.50% increased alcohol/PAS use. Qualitative data leverage quantitative findings: work overload, the indifference of the Federal Government and distance from family/friends.

Conclusion

Working in the most vulnerable region and in the least one affects the psychosocial aspects of the PHC professionals equally.

Agravios por causas externas en Servicio de Atención Móvel de Urgencia

Objetivo principal: Identificar la prevalencia de los agravios por causas externas en Servicio de Atención Móvil de Urgencia y factores asociados. Metodología: Estudio de datos secundarios, desarrollado a partir de recolección de datos en 2845 boletines de atención. Se utilizó un análisis de modelo de regresión de Poisson. Resultados principales: Los individuos con edad entre 21 y 40 años presentan aumento de 75% en la probabili-dad de sufrieren agravios por causas externas, 54% mayor probabilidad de presentaren una respiración alterada en el examen clínico, 105% mayor riesgo de rechazo de atención y 233% mayor riesgo de no estar en el local. Conclusión principal: Accidentes de transporte y caídas fueron los agravios por causas externas más prevalentes. Los factores asociados fueron: edad entre 21 y 40 años y presentar respiración alterada. Otros factores, también, se mantuvieron asociados por el rechazo en la atención y no estar presente para recibir la atención.

Evaluación y cuidado de la piel al final de la vida

Este artículo contempla una actualización con base a los diez puntos establecidos por el consenso Skin Changes at the Life's End [Cambios en la Piel en el Final de la Vida] (Scale, por su sigla en inglés) y tiene por objetivo discutir la evaluación de las condiciones y el cuidado de la piel en el final de la vida. Acerca de los pacientes y familiares, se propone la construcción de un plan de cuidados basándose en sus deseos que deben ser debidamente registrados. Para los profesionales de salud, las recomendaciones buscan la educación para la evaluación de los signos clínicos de falla e insuficiencia de la piel. Así pues, la prioridad es la comodidad del paciente. Se concluye que la utilización del consenso Scale va al encuentro de la filosofía de los cuidados paliativos y puede así mejorar los aspectos multidimensionales involucrados en la calidad del proceso de morir.

Sala azul: espacio de aprendizaje vivencial

O objetivo foi analisar as contribuições do processo de aprendizagem vivencial para o desenvolvimento do cuidado sensível no estudante de enfermagem. Pesquisa descritiva, qualitativa, desenvolvida a partir dos registros do formulário de avaliação preenchido por estudantes do terceiro, oitavo e novo período. Foram obtidas amostras não intencionais, dos anos de 2013, 2014 e 2015, totalizando 298 participantes. O campo de estudo foi a Sala Azul, situado na Faculdade de Enfermagem da Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro. Buscou-se respeitar os procedimentos ético-legais que envolvem pesquisas com seres humanos. Emergiram três categorias: Espaço de reflexão para o cuidado de si e do outro; Espaço de aprendizagem da empatia multidimensional e Espaço que promove redução do estresse através do relaxamento. Os resultados sugerem que o processo de aprendizagem vivencial possibilita o desenvolvimento do autoconhecimento, o cuidado de si e do outro, as habilidades empáticas e estratégias de gerenciamento do estresse.