Using surface-enhanced Raman scattering for simultaneous multiplex detection and quantification of thiols associated to axillary malodour.

Axillary malodour is caused by the microbial conversion of human-derived precursors to volatile organic compounds. Thiols strongly contribute to this odour but are hard to detect as they are present at low concentrations. Additionally, thiols are highly volatile and small making sampling and quantification difficult, including by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In this study, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), combined with chemometrics, was utilised to simultaneously quantify four malodourous thiols associated with axillary odour, both in individual and multiplex solutions. Univariate and multivariate methods of partial least squares regression (PLS-R) were used to calculate the limit of detection (LoD) and results compared. Both methods yielded comparable LoD values, with LoDs using PLS-R ranging from 0.0227 ppm to 0.0153 ppm for the thiols studied. These thiols were then examined and quantified simultaneously in 120 mixtures using PLS-R. The resultant models showed high linearity (Q2 values between 0.9712 and 0.9827 for both PLS-1 and PLS-2) and low values of root mean squared error of predictions (0.0359 ppm and 0.0459 ppm for PLS-1 and PLS-2, respectively). To test this approach further, these models were challenged with 15 new blind test samples, collected independently from the initial samples. This test demonstrated that SERS combined with PLS-R could be used to predict the unknown concentrations of these thiols in a mixture. These results display the ability of SERS for the simultaneous multiplex detection and quantification of analytes and its potential for future development for detecting gaseous thiols produced from skin and other body sites.

Is there a relationship between forest fires and deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon?

The Brazilian Legal Amazon is an extensive territory in which different factors influence the dynamics of forest fires. Currently, the Brazilian government has two tools in the public domain and free of charge, PRODES and BDQueimadas, to monitor and make decisions to combat deforestation and forest fires. This work aimed to evaluate and correlate the forest fire alerts and deforestation in the Amazon Forest in the state of Pará. The analyses were based on carrying out a diagnosis of forest fires and deforestation; the behavior of forest fires and deforestation over the last twenty years; the statistical relationship between deforestation and forest fires and their spatialization. This work identified that Pará is the state in the Legal Amazon with the highest occurrence of forest fires and deforestation. Deforestation in the four-year period Jan/2003-Dec/2006 showed a higher rate compared to the four-year periods Jan/2011-Dec/2018. A high correlation was found between forest fire alerts and increases in deforestation. There is a spatial relationship between cities with greater increases in deforestation and high numbers of fire alerts. In relation to the occurrence of forest fires and deforestation, the south of the state was the most critical region and the north had lower rates.

Heterodimerization domains in MAP4 KINASEs determine subcellular localization and activity in Arabidopsis.

Signal transduction relies largely on the activity of kinases and phosphatases that control protein phosphorylation. However, we still know very little about phosphorylation-mediated signaling networks. Plant MITOGEN-ACTIVATED PROTEIN KINASE KINASE KINASE KINASEs (MAP4Ks) have recently gained more attention, given their role in a wide range of processes, including developmental processes and stress signaling. We analyzed MAP4K expression patterns and mapped protein-MAP4K interactions in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), revealing extensive coexpression and heterodimerization. This heterodimerization is regulated by the C-terminal, intrinsically disordered half of the MAP4K, and specifically by the coiled coil motif. The ability to heterodimerize is required for proper activity and localization of the MAP4Ks. Taken together, our results identify MAP4K-interacting proteins and emphasize the functional importance of MAP4K heterodimerization. Furthermore, we identified MAP4K4/TARGET OF TEMPERATURE3 (TOT3) and MAP4K5/TOT3-INTERACTING PROTEIN 5 (TOI5) as key regulators of the transition from cell division to elongation zones in the primary root tip.

Life on Earth can grow on extraterrestrial organic carbon.

The universe is a vast store of organic abiotic carbon that could potentially drive heterotrophy on habitable planets. Meteorites are one of the transporters of this carbon to planetary surfaces. Meteoritic material was accumulating on early Earth when life emerged and proliferated. Yet it is not known if this organic carbon from space was accessible to life. In this research, an anaerobic microbial community was grown with the CM2 carbonaceous chondrite Aguas Zarcas as the sole carbon, energy and nutrient source. Using a reversed 13C-stable isotope labelling experiment in combination with optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy of single cells, this paper demonstrates the direct transfer of carbon from meteorite into microbial biomass. This implies that meteoritic organics could have been used as a carbon source on early Earth and other habitable planets, and supports the potential for a heterotrophic metabolism in early living systems.

Atenção à pessoa com anemia falciforme no contexto da Estratégia Saúde da Família: a ótica dos profissionais / Caring the patient with falciform anemia in the context of the Family Health Strategy: the views of professionals

Resumo Introdução: Na atenção à pessoa com anemia falciforme, é imprescindível um cuidado compartilhado e coordenado pela Atenção Primária à Saúde. Os profissionais de saúde da família devem se comprometer com a assistência, sendo necessária uma articulada rede de atenção à saúde. Este estudo teve por objetivo compreender as visões de profissionais de saúde da família acerca da atenção à saúde da pessoa com anemia falciforme. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em Diamantina, estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, com enfermeiros e médicos da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF). Conduziram-se entrevistas semiestruturadas com 15 profissionais — sendo, depois, submetidas à análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados: Emergiram duas categorias temáticas: "assistência à pessoa com anemia falciforme: fragilidades no contexto da Estratégia Saúde da Família" e "referência e contrarreferência na atenção: uma rede fragmentada". Revelaram-se desafios a serem superados: o acompanhamento sistemático mostrou-se incipiente, atribuiu-se a responsabilidade pelo cuidado principalmente ao serviço do hemocentro e o sistema de referência e contrarreferência apresentou fragmentação. Conclusões: No cenário da ESF, a assistência requer avanços para que seja de melhor qualidade, com efetiva atuação da equipe e rede de atenção bem estruturada.

Abstract Background: While caring the patients with sickle cell anemia, shared care coordinated by Primary Health Care is essential. Family health professionals must commit to care, and an articulated healthcare network is necessary. This study aimed to understand the visions of family health professionals about health care for patients with sickle cell anemia. Method: Qualitative research was carried out in Diamantina, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, with nurses and physicians of the Family Health Strategy (ESF). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 professionals and the results were submitted to content thematic analysis. Results: Two thematic categories emerged: "assistance to the person with sickle cell anemia: fragilities in the context of the Family Health Strategy" and "reference and counterreference in care: a fragmented network." Challenges to overcome were revealed: systematic follow-up was incipient; responsibility for care was attributed mainly to the blood center service; and the reference and counter-reference system presented fragmentation. Conclusions: In the ESF scenario, care requires advances to be of better quality, with effective team performance and a well-structured care network.

Depressive symptoms and associated factors in pregnant women attended in primary healthcare / Síntomas depresivos y factores asociados en gestantes atendidas en atención primaria de salud / Sintomas depressivos e fatores associados em gestantes assistidas na atenção primária à saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms in pregnant women attended in primary healthcare. Method: this is an epidemiological, cross-sectional and analytical study conducted in Montes Claros, in the north of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The dependent variable (depressive symptoms) and independent variables (sociodemographic characteristics, social support, obstetric characteristics, sexuality and health conditions) were collected through a questionnaire and validated scales. The collection took place between October 2018 and November 2019. Descriptive, bivariate and multiple analyzes were performed through multinomial logistics regression. Results: a sample of 1,279 pregnant women was evaluated. The estimated prevalence of moderate and serious depressive symptoms was 16.2% and 25.2%, respectively. Low social support (p<0.001), low sexual performance (p = 0.002) and a high level of perceived stress (p<0.001) were factors associated with moderate depressive symptoms. First gestational trimester (p = 0.006), low social support (p<0.001), low sexual performance (p<0.001) and a high level of perceived stress (p<0.001) were factors associated with serious depressive symptoms. Conclusion: the prevalence of moderate and serious depressive symptoms in pregnant women attended in primary healthcare was considerable. Factors related to social support, gestational quarter (first quarter), sexuality and perceived stress showed association with these symptoms. Caution and the promotion of mental health is necessary for pregnant women in this scenario.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la prevalencia y factores asociados a síntomas depresivos en gestantes atendidas en Atención Primaria de Salud. Método: se trata de un estudio epidemiológico, transversal y analítico, realizado en Montes Claros, norte del estado de Minas Gerais - Brasil. La variable dependiente (síntomas depresivos) y las variables independientes (características sociodemográficas, apoyo social, características obstétricas, sexualidad y condiciones de salud) se recogieron mediante un cuestionario y escalas validadas. La recolección se realizó entre octubre de 2018 y noviembre de 2019. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos, bivariados y múltiples mediante Regresión Logística Multinomial. Resultados: se evaluó una muestra de 1279 gestantes. Las prevalencias estimadas de síntomas depresivos moderados y graves fueron del 16,2% y el 25,2%, respectivamente. El bajo apoyo social (p<0,001), el bajo rendimiento sexual (p=0,002) y el alto nivel de estrés percibido (p<0,001) fueron factores asociados con síntomas depresivos moderados. El primer trimestre del embarazo (p=0,006), el bajo apoyo social (p<0,001), el bajo rendimiento sexual (p<0,001) y el alto nivel de estrés percibido (p<0,001) fueron factores asociados con síntomas depresivos severos. Conclusión: la prevalencia de síntomas depresivos moderados y graves en gestantes atendidas en Atención Primaria de Salud fue considerable. Factores relacionados con el apoyo social, el trimestre gestacional (primer trimestre), la sexualidad y el estrés percibido se asociaron con estos síntomas. En este escenario, es necesaria una mayor atención a las mujeres embarazadas y la promoción de la salud mental.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a prevalência e os fatores associados aos sintomas depressivos em gestantes assistidas na Atenção Primária à Saúde. Método: trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico, transversal e analítico, realizado em Montes Claros, norte do estado de Minas Gerais - Brasil. A variável dependente (sintomas depressivos) e as variáveis independentes (características sociodemográficas, apoio social, características obstétricas, sexualidade e condições de saúde) foram coletadas por meio de questionário e escalas validadas. A coleta ocorreu entre outubro de 2018 e novembro de 2019. Realizaram-se análises descritivas, bivariada e múltipla mediante Regressão Logística Multinomial. Resultados: avaliou-se amostra de 1279 gestantes. As prevalências estimadas de sintomas depressivos moderados e graves foram de 16,2% e 25,2%, respectivamente. Baixo apoio social (p<0,001), baixo desempenho sexual (p=0,002) e elevado nível de estresse percebido (p<0,001) foram fatores associados aos sintomas depressivos moderados. Primeiro trimestre gestacional (p=0,006), baixo apoio social (p<0,001), baixo desempenho sexual (p<0,001) e elevado nível de estresse percebido (p<0,001) foram fatores associados aos sintomas depressivos graves. Conclusão: as prevalências de sintomas depressivos moderados e graves em gestantes assistidas na Atenção Primária à Saúde foram consideráveis. Fatores relativos ao apoio social, ao trimestre gestacional (primeiro trimestre), à sexualidade e ao estresse percebido apresentaram associação a esses sintomas. Nesse cenário, fazem-se necessários o cuidado ampliado às gestantes e a promoção da saúde mental.

Monitoring Phenotype Heterogeneity at the Single-Cell Level within Bacillus Populations Producing Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate by Label-Free Super-resolution Infrared Imaging.

Phenotypic heterogeneity is commonly found among bacterial cells within microbial populations due to intrinsic factors as well as equipping the organisms to respond to external perturbations. The emergence of phenotypic heterogeneity in bacterial populations, particularly in the context of using these bacteria as microbial cell factories, is a major concern for industrial bioprocessing applications. This is due to the potential impact on overall productivity by allowing the growth of subpopulations consisting of inefficient producer cells. Monitoring the spread of phenotypes across bacterial cells within the same population at the single-cell level is key to the development of robust, high-yield bioprocesses. Here, we discuss the novel development of optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy to probe phenotypic heterogeneity within Bacillus strains by monitoring the production of the bioplastic poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) at the single-cell level. Measurements obtained on single-point and in imaging mode show significant variability in the PHB content within bacterial cells, ranging from whether or not a cell produces PHB to variations in the intragranular biochemistry of PHB within bacterial cells. Our results show the ability of O-PTIR spectroscopy to probe PHB production at the single-cell level in a rapid, label-free, and semiquantitative manner. These findings highlight the potential of O-PTIR spectroscopy in single-cell microbial metabolomics as a whole-organism fingerprinting tool that can be used to monitor the dynamic of bacterial populations as well as for understanding their mechanisms for dealing with environmental stress, which is crucial for metabolic engineering research.

When drought meets heat - a plant omics perspective.

Changes in weather patterns with emerging drought risks and rising global temperature are widespread and negatively affect crop growth and productivity. In nature, plants are simultaneously exposed to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses, but most studies focus on individual stress conditions. However, the simultaneous occurrence of different stresses impacts plant growth and development differently than a single stress. Plants sense the different stress combinations in the same or in different tissues, which could induce specific systemic signalling and acclimation responses; impacting different stress-responsive transcripts, protein abundance and modifications, and metabolites. This mini-review focuses on the combination of drought and heat, two abiotic stress conditions that often occur together. Recent omics studies indicate common or independent regulators involved in heat or drought stress responses. Here, we summarize the current research results, highlight gaps in our knowledge, and flag potential future focus areas.

Does the intensity of dissociation predict antidepressant effects 24 hours after infusion of racemic ketamine and esketamine in treatment-resistant depression? A secondary analysis from a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Ketamine and esketamine have both shown significant antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), and conflicting evidence suggests that induced dissociation by these drugs can be a clinical predictor of esketamine/ketamine's efficacy. METHODS: This study is a secondary analysis from a bi-center, randomized, controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive an IV infusion of esketamine (.25 mg/kg) or racemic ketamine (.50 mg/kg) over 40 minutes. Dissociative symptoms were assessed using the Clinician-Administered Dissociative State Scale (CADSS) 40 minutes following the beginning of the infusion. The variation in depression scores was measured with the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), which was administered before the intervention as a baseline measure and 24 hrs, 72 hrs, and 7 days following infusion. RESULTS: Sixty-one patients were included in the analysis. Examining CADSS scores of 15 or below, for every 1-point increment in the CADSS score, there was a mean change of -0.5 (SD = 0.25; p-value 0.04) of predicted MADRS score from baseline to 24 hrs. The results for 72 hrs and 7 days following infusion were not significant. Limitations: This study was not designed to assess the relationship between ketamine or esketamine-induced dissociation and antidepressant effects as the main outcome, therefore confounding variables for this relationship were not controlled. CONCLUSION: We suggest a positive relationship between dissociation intensity, measured by CADSS, and antidepressant effect 24 hours after ketamine and esketamine infusion for a CADSS score of up to 15 points.

Focusing ion funnel-assisted ambient electrospray enables high-density and uniform deposition of non-spherical gold nanoparticles for highly sensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a powerful technique for detecting trace amounts of analytes. However, the performance of SERS substrates depends on many variables including the enhancement factor, morphology, consistency, and interaction with target analytes. In this study, we investigated, for the first time, the use of electrospray deposition (ESD) combined with a novel ambient focusing DC ion funnel to deposit a high density of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to generate large-area, uniform substrates for highly sensitive SERS analysis. We found that the combination of ambient ion focusing with ESD facilitated high-density and intact deposition of non-spherical NPs. This also allowed us to take advantage of a polydisperse colloidal solution of AuNPs (consisting of nanospheres and nanorods), as confirmed by finite-difference time domain (FDTD) simulations. Our SERS substrate exhibited excellent capture capacity for model analyte molecules, namely 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) and Rhodamine 6G (R6G), with detection limits in the region of 10-11 M and a relative standard deviation of <6% over a large area (∼500 × 500 µm2). Additionally, we assessed the quantitative performance of our SERS substrate using the R6G probe molecule. The results demonstrated excellent linearity (R2 > 0.99) over a wide concentration range (10-4 M to 10-10 M) with a detection limit of 80 pM.

Functional annotation of proteins for signaling network inference in non-model species.

Molecular biology aims to understand cellular responses and regulatory dynamics in complex biological systems. However, these studies remain challenging in non-model species due to poor functional annotation of regulatory proteins. To overcome this limitation, we develop a multi-layer neural network that determines protein functionality directly from the protein sequence. We annotate kinases and phosphatases in Glycine max. We use the functional annotations from our neural network, Bayesian inference principles, and high resolution phosphoproteomics to infer phosphorylation signaling cascades in soybean exposed to cold, and identify Glyma.10G173000 (TOI5) and Glyma.19G007300 (TOT3) as key temperature regulators. Importantly, the signaling cascade inference does not rely upon known kinase motifs or interaction data, enabling de novo identification of kinase-substrate interactions. Conclusively, our neural network shows generalization and scalability, as such we extend our predictions to Oryza sativa, Zea mays, Sorghum bicolor, and Triticum aestivum. Taken together, we develop a signaling inference approach for non-model species leveraging our predicted kinases and phosphatases.

Arketamine as adjunctive therapy for treatment-resistant depression: A placebo-controlled pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Racemic ketamine is a mixture of (R)-ketamine (arketamine) and (S)-ketamine (esketamine), with the latter regarded as the main isomer for antidepressant effects. However, preclinical data and one open-label human trial suggest arketamine might exert a more potent and longer-lasting antidepressant effect with fewer side effects. We aimed to explore the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial of arketamine for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and to assess its efficacy and safety compared to placebo. METHODS: This is a, randomized, double-blind, crossover, pilot trial (n = 10). All participants received saline and arketamine (0.5 mg/kg) with a one-week interval. Treatment effects were analyzed with a linear mixed effects (LME) model. RESULTS: Our analysis suggested the presence of a carryover effect, so the main efficacy analysis was limited to the first week, which demonstrated a main effect of time (p = 0.038) but not for treatment (p = 0.40) or their interaction (p = 0.95). This indicates that depression improved over time, but without significant difference between arketamine and placebo. Analyzing the two weeks together, findings were the same. Dissociation and other adverse events were minimal. LIMITATIONS: This was a pilot study with a small sample and underpowered. CONCLUSIONS: Arketamine was not superior to placebo for TRD but demonstrated to be extremely safe. Our findings reinforce the importance of continuing studies with this drug, with better powered clinical trials, perhaps considering a parallel design with higher or flexible doses and repeated administrations.

Rapid detection and quantification of paracetamol and its major metabolites using surface enhanced Raman scattering.

Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug that is commonly used as an analgesic for mild pain, headache, cold and flu. While in the short term it is a safe and effective medicine, it is sometimes used for attempted suicides particularly in young adults. In such circumstances it is important for rapid diagnosis of overdoses as antidotes can be given to limit liver damage from one of its primary metabolites N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI). Unfortunately, the demand for rapid and sensitive analytical techniques to accurately monitor the abuse of OTC drugs has significantly risen. Ideally these techniques would be highly specific, sensitive, reproducible, portable and rapid. In addition, an ideal point of care (PoC) test would enable quantitative detection of drugs and their metabolites present in body fluids. While Raman spectroscopy meets these specifications, there is a need for enhancement of the signal because the Raman effect is weak. In this study, we developed a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) methodology in conjunction with chemometrics to quantify the amount of paracetamol and its main primary metabolites (viz., paracetamol sulfate, p-acetamidophenyl ß-D-glucuronide and NAPQI) in water and artificial urine. The enhancement of the SERS signals was achieved by mixing the drug or xenometabolites with a gold nanoparticle followed by aggregation with 0.045 M NaCl. We found that the SERS data could be collected directly, due to immediate analyte association with the Au surface and colloid aggregation. Accurate and precise measurements were generated, with a limit of detection (LoD) of paracetamol in water and artificial urine at 7.18 × 10-6 M and 2.11 × 10-5 M, respectively, which is well below the limit needed for overdose and indeed normal levels of paracetamol in serum after taking 1 g orally. The predictive values obtained from the analysis of paracetamol in water and artificial urine were also excellent, with the coefficient of determination (Q2) being 0.995 and 0.996, respectively (1 suggests a perfect model). It was noteworthy that when artificial urine was spiked with paracetamol, no aggregating agent was required due to the salt rich medium, which led to spontaneous aggregation. Moreover, for the xenometabolites of paracetamol excellent LoDs were obtained and these ranged from 2.6 × 10-4 M to 5 × 10-5 M with paracetamol sulfate and NAPQI having Q2 values of 0.934 and 0.892 and for p-acetamidophenyl ß-D-glucuronide this was slightly lower at 0.6437.

Optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy: A novel solution for rapid identification of antimicrobial resistance at the single-cell level via deuterium isotope labeling.

The rise and extensive spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a growing concern, and a threat to the environment and human health globally. The majority of current AMR identification methods used in clinical setting are based on traditional microbiology culture-dependent techniques which are time-consuming or expensive to be implemented, thus appropriate antibiotic stewardship is provided retrospectively which means the first line of treatment is to hope that a broad-spectrum antibiotic works. Hence, culture-independent and single-cell technologies are needed to allow for rapid detection and identification of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and to support a more targeted and effective antibiotic therapy preventing further development and spread of AMR. In this study, for the first time, a non-destructive phenotyping method of optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy, coupled with deuterium isotope probing (DIP) and multivariate statistical analysis was employed as a metabolic fingerprinting approach to detect AMR in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) at both single-cell and population levels. Principal component-discriminant function analysis (PC-DFA) of FT-IR and O-PTIR spectral data showed clear clustering patterns as a result of distinctive spectral shifts (C-D signature peaks) originating from deuterium incorporation into bacterial cells, allowing for rapid detection and classification of sensitive and resistant isolates at the single-cell level. Furthermore, the single-frequency images obtained using the C-D signature peak at 2,163 cm-1 clearly displayed the reduced ability of the trimethoprim-sensitive strain for incorporating deuterium when exposed to this antibiotic, compared to the untreated condition. Hence, the results of this study indicated that O-PTIR can be employed as an efficient tool for the rapid detection of AMR at the single-cell level.

Monitoring glucose levels in urine using FTIR spectroscopy combined with univariate and multivariate statistical methods.

The development of novel platforms for non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring applied in the screening and monitoring of diabetes is crucial to improve diabetes surveillance systems. Attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy of urine can be an alternative as a sustainable, label-free, fast, non-invasive, and highly sensitive analysis to detect changes in urine promoted by diabetes and insulin treatment. In this study, we used ATR-FTIR to evaluate the urinary components of non-diabetic (ND), diabetic (D), and diabetic insulin-treated (D + I) rats. As expected, insulin treatment was capable to revert changes in glycemia, 24-h urine collection volume, urine creatinine, urea, and glucose excretion promoted by diabetes. Several differences in the urine spectra of ND, D, and D + I were observed, with urea, creatinine, and glucose analytes being related to these changes. Principal components analysis (PCA) scores plots allowed for the discrimination of ND and D + I from D with an accuracy of âˆ¼ 99 %. The PCA loadings associated with PC1 confirmed the importance of urea and glucose vibrational modes for this discrimination. Univariate analysis of second derivative spectra showed a high correlation (r: 0.865, p < 0.0001) between the height of 1074 cm-1 vibrational mode with urinary glucose concentration. In order to estimate the amount of glucose present in the infrared spectra from urine, multivariate curve resolution-alternating least square (MCR-ALS) was applied and a higher predicted concentration of glucose in the urine was observed with a correlation of 78.9 % compared to urinary glucose concentration assessed using enzyme assays. In summary, ATR-FTIR combined with univariate and multivariate chemometric analyses provides an innovative, non-invasive, and sustainable approach to diabetes surveillance.

Prevalence of internet addiction and associated factors in students / Prevalência de adicção em internet e fatores associados em estudantes

Objective: A cross-sectional study that estimated the prevalence of Internet Addiction and associated factors among High School and College students in Montes Claros - Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: Internet Addiction was evaluated through the Internet Addiction Test, and demographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors, as well as internet usage profile characteristics, were examined. Descriptive analysis and the Poisson regression model were applied. Results: Of the 2,519 participants, 52.3% were considered with Internet Addiction Problems. In High School, the following factors were identified: are women and girls, age over >16, class C, alcohol consumption, impaired sleep, frequent use of social networks, and time spent connected. In Higher Education, the following factors: are women and girls, age over >23, paid activity, class C and D/E, alcohol consumption, impaired sleep, imbalanced diet, frequent use of social networks, and time spent connected. Conclusion: There was an expressive prevalence of Internet Addiction Problems, an outcome associated with the demographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle, and internet use characteristics.

Objetivo: Estudo transversal que estimou prevalência de Adicção em Internet e fatores associados entre estudantes do Ensino Médio e Superior em Montes Claros - Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos: A Adicção em Internet foi avaliada pelo Internet Addiction Test e se investigaram fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos, estilo de vida e perfil de uso de internet. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e modelo de regressão de Poisson. Resultados: Dos 2.519 participantes, 52,3% apresentaram problemas de Adicção em Internet. No grupo de estudantes de Ensino Médio examinado, identificaram-se os seguintes fatores: sexo feminino, idade >16, classe C, consumo de álcool, sono prejudicado, uso frequente das redes sociais e tempo de conexão. No Ensino Superior, foram constatados: sexo feminino, idade >23, atividade remunerada, classe C e D/E, consumo de álcool, sono prejudicado, alimentação não balanceada, uso frequente das redes sociais e tempo de conexão. Conclusão: Houve expressiva prevalência de Problemas com Adicção em Internet, desfecho associado a características demográficas, socioeconômicas, ao estilo de vida e ao uso da internet.

Prevalence and associated factors on overweight/obesity in pregnant women assisted by the Family Health Strategy / Prevalência e fatores associados ao sobrepeso/ obesidade em gestantes assistidas na Estratégia Saúde da Família

Abstract Objectives: to estimate the prevalence of overweight/obesity and analyze the associated factors in pregnant women assisted by family health teams. Methods: epidemiological observational study of populational, cross-sectional, and analytical base carried out with pregnant women at the Estratégia de Saúde da Família (Family Health Strategy) in the city of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, between October 2018 and November 2019. Socioeconomic and demographic, obstetric characteristics, social and family support, emotional aspects and comorbidities. The presence of overweight/obesity was estimated by the initial Body Mass Index (up to the 13th gestational week) acquired from the pregnant woman's health booklet. Hierarchized Poisson regression with robust variance was carried out. Results: a total of 1,279 pregnant women participated in this study. The prevalence of overweight/ obesity was 45.3% and was associated with the following factors: having a partner (PR=1.52; CI95% =1.24-1.86), higher family income (PR=1.23; CI95% =1.04-1.46), presence of previous pregnancies (PR=1.65; CI95% =1.39-1.95%), higher age group (PR=2.26; CI95% =1.70-3.01), gestational diabetes mellitus (PR=1.43; CI95% =1.21-1.69) and systemic arterial hypertension (PR=1.29; CI95% =1.04-1.61). Conclusion: there was a high prevalence of overweight/obesity in the evaluated pregnant women and its association with sociodemographic and obstetric factors and chronic comorbidities. There is a necessity for monitoring and carrying out nutritional education in prenatal care provided by family health teams, with emphasis on strengthening multidisciplinary care.

Resumo Objetivos: estimar a prevalência de sobrepeso/obesidade e analisar os fatores associados em gestantes assistidas por equipes de saúde da família. Métodos: estudo epidemiológico observacional de base populacional, transversal e analítico, realizado com gestantes da Estratégia de Saúde da Família em Montes Claros, MG, Brasil, entre outubro de 2018 a novembro de 2019. Avaliaram-se características socioeconômicas e demográficas, obstétricas, apoio social e familiar, aspectos emocionais e comorbidades. A presença de sobrepeso/ obesidade foi estimada pelo Índice de Massa Corporal inicial (até 13ª semana gestacional) adquirido da caderneta da gestante. Foi realizada regressão de Poisson hierarquizada com variância robusta. Resultados: participaram deste estudo 1.279 gestantes. A prevalência do sobrepeso/obesidade foi de 45,3% e esteve associada aos fatores: ter companheiro(a) (RP=1,52; IC95%=1,24-1,86), maior renda familiar (RP=1,23; IC95%=1,04-1,46), presença de gestações anteriores (RP=1,65; IC95%=1,39-1,95%), maior faixa etária (RP=2,26; IC 95%=1,70-3,01), diabetes mellitus gestacional (RP=1,43; IC95%=1,21-1,69) e hipertensão arterial sistêmica (RP=1,29; IC95%=1,04-1,61). Conclusão: verificou-se alta prevalência de sobrepeso/obesidade nas gestantes avaliadas e sua associação com fatores sociodemográficos, obstétricos e comorbidades crônicas. Há necessidade de monitoramento e de realização da educação nutricional no cuidado pré-natal prestado pelas equipes de saúde da família, com ênfase no fortalecimento do cuidado multiprofissional.

Perceived stress and associated factors in pregnant women: a cross-sectional study nested within a population-based cohort / Estresse percebido e fatores associados em gestantes: estudo transversal aninhado a uma coorte de base populacional

Abstract Objectives: to estimate the prevalence of perceived stress and verify the associated factors in pregnant women assisted by Family Health teams in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais - Brazil. Methods: epidemiological, cross-sectional, and analytical study, nested in a population-based cohort. Sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics and physical and mental health conditions were assessed. The stress level was estimated by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14). Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted, followed by the Poisson Regression model with robust variance. Results: a total of 1,279 pregnant women participated. The prevalence of high-stress levels was 23.5% (CI95%=20.8%-26.2%). The outcome was more prevalent among pregnant women aged above 35 years (PR=1.38; CI95%=1.09-1.74) and less than or equal to 19 (PR=1.41; CI95%=1.13-1.77); without a partner (PR=1.33; CI95%=1.09-1.62); with low social support (PR=1.42; CI95%=1.18-1.70); multiparous (PR=1.30; CI95%=1.02-1.66); with current unplanned pregnancy (PR=1.23; CI95%=1.00-1.52); urinary tract infection (PR=1.35; CI95%=1.12-1.62); high level of anxiety symptoms (PR=1.42; CI95%=1.18-1.71); severe (PR=4.74; CI95%=3.60-6.26) and moderate (PR=3.19; CI95%=2.31-4.39) symptoms of depression; and neurological complaints (PR=1.77; CI95%=1.27-2.47). Conclusions: there was a significant prevalence of high perceived stress among pregnant women, an outcome associated with sociodemographic, clinical, obstetric, and emotional factors, which demonstrates the need for comprehensive care of pregnant women's health.

Resumo Objetivos: estimar a prevalência de estresse percebido e verificar os fatores associados em gestantes assistidas por equipes da Saúde da Família de Montes Claros, Minas Gerais - Brasil. Métodos: estudo epidemiológico, transversal e analítico, aninhado a uma coorte de base populacional. Avaliaram-se características sociodemográficas, obstétricas, condições de saúde física e mental. O nível de estresse foi estimado pela Escala de Estresse Percebido (Perceveid Stress Scale, PSS-14). Foram conduzidas análise descritiva e bivariada, seguidas do modelo de Regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. Resultados: participaram 1.279 gestantes. A prevalência do nível de estresse elevado foi de 23,5% (IC95%=20,8%-26,2%). O desfecho foi mais prevalente entre gestantes com idade acima dos 35 anos (RP=1,38; IC95%=1,09-1,74) e menor ou igual a 19 (RP=1,41; IC95%=1,13-1,77); sem companheiro(a) (RP=1,33; IC95%=1,09-1,62); com baixo apoio social (RP=1,42; IC95%=1,18-1,70); multíparas (RP=1,30; IC95%=1,02-1,66); com gravidez atual não planejada (RP=1,23; IC95%=1,00-1,52); infecção urinária (RP=1,35; IC95%=1,12-1,62); alto nível de sintomas de ansiedade (RP=1,42; IC95%=1,18-1,71); sintomas graves (RP=4,74; IC95%=3,60-6,26) e moderados (RP=3,19; IC95%=2,31-4,39) de depressão; e queixas neurológicas (RP=1,77; IC95%=1,27-2,47). Conclusões: houve expressiva prevalência de elevado estresse percebido entre gestantes, desfecho associado a fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos, obstétricos e condições emocionais, o que demonstra a necessidade de atenção integral à saúde da gestante.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin transdermal gel in an IL-10 knockout mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease.

Inflammatory bowel diseases are a group of inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Their prevalence is still low in Brazil, but the incidence is increasing annually. A variety of compounds present in Curcuma longa L., particularly curcumin, have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and aid in the prevention of associated diseases. This study aimed to assess the effect of curcumin transdermal gel on oxidative stress and intestinal inflammation in IL-10 knockout mice. Female mice were divided into four groups: a control group (C0) treated with vehicle and three experimental groups treated with transdermal gel containing 50 (C50), 75 (C75), and 100 (C100) mg curcumin kg-1 body weight. Colon malondialdehyde concentrations were lower in C50 and C75 groups. C100 treatment led to reduced catalase activity in the small intestine, whereas C50, C75, and C100 treatments resulted in decreased catalase activity in the colon. In contrast, superoxide dismutase activity increased in the small intestine of C50 and C75 mice and decreased in the colon of C50, C75, and C100 mice. Glutathione S-transferase activity increased in the small intestine and decreased in the colon of C75 animals. These findings suggest that curcumin transdermal gel exerts a protective effect against oxidative stress.

Nível de atividade física e fatores associados entre gestantes: estudo epidemiológico de base populacional / Physical activity level and associated factors among pregnant women: a population-based epidemiological study

Resumo Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar o nível de atividade física e identificar os fatores associados em gestantes assistidas na Atenção Primária à Saúde da cidade de Montes Claros - Minas Gerais (Brasil). Estudo epidemiológico, transversal, analítico, realizado com 1.279 gestantes. Utilizou-se questionário que contemplava variáveis socioeconômicas, ocupacionais, obstétricas, comportamentais, sociais, de saúde e emocionais. Também se aplicou o Questionário de Atividade Física para Gestantes. Realizou-se análise estatística descritiva e regressão logística multinominal com modelo hierarquizado. Verificou-se prevalência de inatividade física nas dimensões atividade física e lazer. O nível leve de atividade física foi associado aos fatores idade de 21 a 30 e até 20 anos, renda acima de dois salários-mínimos, trabalho assalariado e apego materno-fetal nível médio/alto. Renda de um a dois salários-mínimos e acima de dois salários, trabalho assalariado e por conta própria, sintomas de ansiedade e de estresse, apego materno-fetal médio/alto foram associados ao nível moderado/vigoroso. Aspectos multifatoriais devem ser considerados em estratégias de promoção da saúde direcionadas à prática de atividade física por gestantes.

Abstract This research aimed to assess the level of physical activity and identify the associated factors in pregnant women assisted in primary health care in the city of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais (Brazil). This was an epidemiological, cross-sectional, analytical study, carried out with 1,279 pregnant women. Socioeconomic, occupational, obstetric, behavioral, social, health, and emotional variables were assessed using a questionnaire. The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Pregnant Women was also applied. Descriptive statistical analysis and multinominal logistic regression with a hierarchical model were performed. The prevalence of physical inactivity in the physical activity and leisure time dimensions was verified. A mild level of physical activity was associated with the variables such as age from 21 to 30 years and up to 20 years old, income above two minimum wages, salaried work, and maternal-fetal attachment at a medium/high level. Income from one to two minimum wages and above two wages, paid work and self-employment, anxiety and stress symptoms, and medium/high maternal-fetal attachment were associated with the moderate/vigorous level. Multifactorial aspects must be considered in health promotion strategies directed to the practice of physical activity by pregnant women.