Health evaluation: health assessment for people with ostomies.

Objectives: to perform an evaluation study of the Ostomy Care Service in Brazil.

Methods: a qualitative methodology was used, with a collaborative approach of the participants using the service, based on the seven elements proposed by Thurston and Ramaliu, which include service modeling and evaluation model proposal. Document analysis, direct observation, consensus workshops, and interviews with key informants were used.

The effect of blood sampling and preanalytical processing on human N-glycome.

Glycome modulations have been described in the onset and progression of many diseases. Thus, many studies have proposed glycans from blood glycoproteins as disease markers. Astonishingly, little effort has been given unraveling preanalytical conditions potentially influencing glycan analysis prior to blood biomarker studies.

Serum calcium levels and neuropsychological performance in depression and matched healthy controls: Reversal of correlation a marker of the aging cognitive clock?

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with cognitive impairment, that might be related to disturbed calcium homeostasis. Calcium-related processes have also been implicated in age related cognitive decline. Since serum calcium and brain interstitial fluids maintain long-term equilibrium under normal physiological states, serum calcium levels could affect neuronal and hence cognitive function.

High genetic variability of esterase loci in natural populations of Parus major, P. caeruleus, and P. ater.

In Parus major, P. caeruleus, and P. ater the genetic variation of 16 isozyme loci was determined.