Biological Rhythms, Chrono-Nutrition, and Gut Microbiota: Epigenomics Insights for Precision Nutrition and Metabolic Health.

Circadian rhythms integrate a finely tuned network of biological processes recurring every 24 h, intricately coordinating the machinery of all cells. This self-regulating system plays a pivotal role in synchronizing physiological and behavioral responses, ensuring an adaptive metabolism within the environmental milieu, including dietary and physical activity habits. The systemic integration of circadian homeostasis involves a balance of biological rhythms, each synchronically linked to the central circadian clock. Central to this orchestration is the temporal dimension of nutrient and food intake, an aspect closely interwoven with the neuroendocrine circuit, gut physiology, and resident microbiota. Indeed, the timing of meals exerts a profound influence on cell cycle regulation through genomic and epigenetic processes, particularly those involving gene expression, DNA methylation and repair, and non-coding RNA activity. These (epi)genomic interactions involve a dynamic interface between circadian rhythms, nutrition, and the gut microbiota, shaping the metabolic and immune landscape of the host. This research endeavors to illustrate the intricate (epi)genetic interplay that modulates the synchronization of circadian rhythms, nutritional signaling, and the gut microbiota, unravelling the repercussions on metabolic health while suggesting the potential benefits of feed circadian realignment as a non-invasive therapeutic strategy for systemic metabolic modulation via gut microbiota. This exploration delves into the interconnections that underscore the significance of temporal eating patterns, offering insights regarding circadian rhythms, gut microbiota, and chrono-nutrition interactions with (epi)genomic phenomena, thereby influencing diverse aspects of metabolic, well-being, and quality of life outcomes.

Food intake behaviors change as a function of maternal diet and time-restricted feeding.

Introduction: Introduction: changes in dietary/energetic composition during the critical period of development (pregnancy/lactation) or even during meal times may contribute to changes in metabolic and behavioral parameters such as feeding behavior. Objective: the study aimed to examine the repercussions of time-restricted feeding on feeding behavior and on some parameters of glycemic and lipemic metabolism of the offspring of adult rats whose mothers were fed a westernized diet during pregnancy and lactation. Methods: initially, 43 male Wistar rats were used. At 60 days of life, the rats were divided into 4 groups: C: control group; RC: control group with time-restricted feeding; W: westernized diet during pregnancy/lactation group; RW: westernized diet group during pregnancy/lactation group with time-restricted feeding. The following parameters were evaluated: behavioral sequence of satiety (BSS), biochemical parameters, and abdominal fat. Results: findings highlighted a high level of abdominal fat in the groups whose mothers were submitted to a westernized diet, as well as hypertriglyceridemia, and clear differences in feed rate and meal length. This study showed that the westernized diet ingested by mothers during pregnancy and lactation induced hyperlipidemia and changes in the feeding behavior of their adult offspring. Conclusions: these changes may be responsible for eating disorders and risk factors for metabolism disturbance-related diseases.

Introducción: Introducción: los cambios en la composición dietética/energética durante el período crítico de desarrollo (embarazo/lactancia) o incluso durante las comidas pueden contribuir a cambios en los parámetros metabólicos y conductuales como el comportamiento alimentario. Objetivo: el estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar las repercusiones de la alimentación restringida en el tiempo sobre el comportamiento alimentario y sobre algunos parámetros del metabolismo glucémico y lipémico de crías de ratas adultas cuyas madres fueron alimentadas con una dieta occidentalizada durante el embarazo y la lactancia. Métodos: inicialmente se utilizaron 43 ratas Wistar macho. A los 60 días de vida, las ratas se agruparon en 4 grupos: C: grupo de control; RC: grupo de control con alimentación restringida en el tiempo; W: grupo de dieta occidentalizada durante el embarazo/lactancia; RW: grupo de dieta occidentalizada durante el embarazo y la lactancia con alimentación restringida en el tiempo. Se evaluaron los siguientes parámetros: secuencia conductual de saciedad (BSS), parámetros bioquímicos y grasa abdominal. Resultados: destacó una grasa abdominal elevada en los grupos cuyas madres fueron sometidas a una dieta occidentalizada, así como hipertrigliceridemia y una diferencia evidente en la tasa de alimentación y la duración de la comida. Este estudio demostró que la dieta occidentalizada ingerida por las madres durante el embarazo y la lactancia induce hiperlipidemia y cambios en el comportamiento alimentario de las crías adultas. Conclusiones: estos cambios pueden ser responsables de trastornos alimentarios y factores de riesgo de enfermedades relacionadas con alteraciones del metabolismo.

Fecal Microbiota Composition as a Metagenomic Biomarker of Dietary Intake.

Gut microbiota encompasses the set of microorganisms that colonize the gastrointestinal tract with mutual relationships that are key for host homeostasis. Increasing evidence supports cross intercommunication between the intestinal microbiome and the eubiosis-dysbiosis binomial, indicating a networking role of gut bacteria as potential metabolic health surrogate markers. The abundance and diversity of the fecal microbial community are already recognized to be associated with several disorders, such as obesity, cardiometabolic events, gastrointestinal alterations, and mental diseases, which suggests that intestinal microbes may be a valuable tool as causal or as consequence biomarkers. In this context, the fecal microbiota could also be used as an adequate and informative proxy of the nutritional composition of the food intake and about the adherence to dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean or Western diets, by displaying specific fecal microbiome signatures. The aim of this review was to discuss the potential use of gut microbial composition as a putative biomarker of food intake and to screen the sensitivity value of fecal microbiota in the evaluation of dietary interventions as a reliable and precise alternative to subjective questionnaires.

Next-generation retinoid X receptor agonists increase ATRA signaling in organotypic epithelium cultures and have distinct effects on receptor dynamics.

Retinoid X receptors (RXRs) are nuclear transcription factors that partner with other nuclear receptors to regulate numerous physiological processes. Although RXR represents a valid therapeutic target, only a few RXR-specific ligands (rexinoids) have been identified, in part due to the lack of clarity on how rexinoids selectively modulate RXR response. Previously, we showed that rexinoid UAB30 potentiates all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) signaling in human keratinocytes, in part by stimulating ATRA biosynthesis. Here, we examined the mechanism of action of next-generation rexinoids UAB110 and UAB111 that are more potent in vitro than UAB30 and the FDA-approved Targretin. Both UAB110 and UAB111 enhanced ATRA signaling in human organotypic epithelium at a 50-fold lower concentration than UAB30. This was consistent with the 2- to 5- fold greater increase in ATRA in organotypic epidermis treated with UAB110/111 versus UAB30. Furthermore, at 0.2 µM, UAB110/111 increased the expression of ATRA genes up to 16-fold stronger than Targretin. The less toxic and more potent UAB110 also induced more changes in differential gene expression than Targretin. Additionally, our hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry analysis showed that both ligands reduced the dynamics of the ligand-binding pocket but also induced unique dynamic responses that were indicative of higher affinity binding relative to UAB30, especially for Helix 3. UAB110 binding also showed increased dynamics towards the dimer interface through the Helix 8 and Helix 9 regions. These data suggest that UAB110 and UAB111 are potent activators of RXR-RAR signaling pathways but accomplish activation through different molecular responses to ligand binding.

Psyllium (Plantago ovata Forsk) in frozen banana pulp: Influence on rheological, nutritional and sensory characteristics.

A frozen banana pulp with functional properties was developed and characterized in this work. For this, 0 g, 3 g, 5 g and 7 g of psyllium in 100 g of banana pulp were added. The use of this fiber in industrialized products can contribute to the nutritional enrichment of the products and provide functional benefits already acknowledged, such as lowering LDL cholesterol, lowering blood glucose, increasing satiety and relieving constipation. According to the World Health Organization, vegetable consumption should be increased, as it reduces the risk of chronic diseases. The main purpose of this work was to incorporate psyllium in frozen banana pulp to develop a healthy product. The samples were evaluated through chemical analyses, rheological properties and sensory testing with Check-All-That-Apply questions (CATA). The addition of psyllium had a significant effect not only on the viscosity but also on the sensory and nutritional properties of the frozen banana pulp. This study indicated that the production of frozen banana pulp with psyllium is viable, as it has desirable nutritional and sensory characteristics which can contribute to the maintenance of health.

Conformationally Defined Rexinoids for the Prevention of Inflammation and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers.

Compound 1 is a potent rexinoid that is highly effective in cancer chemoprevention but elevates serum triglycerides. In an effort to separate the lipid toxicity from the anticancer activity of 1, we synthesized four new analogs of rexinoid 1, of which three rexinoids did not elevate serum triglycerides. Rexinoids 3 and 4 are twice as potent as rexinoid 1 in binding to Retinoid X receptor (RXR). All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) plays a key role in maintaining skin homeostasis, and rexinoids 3-6 are highly effective in upregulating the genes responsible for the biosynthesis of ATRA. Inflammation plays a key role in skin cancer, and rexinoids 3 and 4 are highly effective in diminishing LPS-induced inflammation. Rexinoids 3 and 4 are highly effective in preventing UVB-induced nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) without displaying any overt toxicities. Biophysical studies of rexinoids 3 and 5 bound to hRXRα-ligand binding domain (LBD) reveal important conformational and dynamical differences in the ligand binding domain.

Prospection of the use of encapsulation in food packaging.

Food safety and extended shelf life linked to convenience were the major reasons for the development of the packaging field. However, advances in material science and the widespread encapsulation technologies are allowing the establishment of new concepts for packages, such as intelligent and active packages. Particulate systems have been developed in recent years for the most diverse area with several purposes that can be employed to improve packaging performance mainly focusing on the modification of barrier properties. This review analyzes the recent developments using encapsulation in food packaging and the main concepts about mass transfer evolved in the functionality of these packages, as well as discusses the research challenges faced by the food packaging sector.

Physical-hydric attributes in Latossolo Amarelo under systems of use in the Cerrado/Caatinga ecotone areas in Piauí State, Brazil.

The Cerrado/Caatinga transition region in Piauí State has a high potential for production of food, fiber and energy, representing about 19% of the total area of the State. This work aimed to evaluate physical and hydraulic attributes under different crops in Latossolo Amarelo Distrófico (Oxisol) in cerrado/caatinga transition areas, in the Southwest of Piauí. In this study five areas with different crops were evaluated as follows: areas under pasture crop with Andropogon gayanus grass with three and six years of crop, area under intensive crop of Pennisetum purpureum grass, area under orchard of Annona squamosa L., area under intensive crop irrigated with central pivot and area under native vegetation of cerrado/caatinga ecotone representing a condition of equilibrium. Soil attributes evaluated were: soil density, total porosity, macroporosity, microporosity, unsaturated pores, blocked pores, saturation humidity, effective saturation, water readily available, void index, mechanical resistance of soil and saturated field hydraulic conductivity. The intensive crop of napier grass for five consecutive years and the pivot irrigated area under intensive crop for four years presented the greatest negative impacts on soil density, total porosity, macroporosity, saturation humidity, effective saturation, water readily available and index of voids.

Carvacrol-loaded liposome suspension: optimization, characterization and incorporation into poly(vinyl alcohol) films.

The purpose of this study was to encapsulate carvacrol into liposomes in order to promote its application in active food packaging. Response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effect of the concentration of the liposomal components on its characteristics. The optimum formulation for the preparation of liposomes with the highest encapsulation efficiency (59.0 ± 1.99%) was found to be 3000 µg mL-1 of cholesterol and 4000 µg mL-1 of carvacrol. Carvacrol reduced the polydispersity index and increased the zeta potential and the thermal stability of liposomes. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that the interaction of carvacrol with liposomes occurred probably through hydrogen-bonding. The incorporation into liposomes maintained the antibacterial effect of carvacrol, but when in the film, carvacrol liposomes were not effective against the microorganisms tested. Liposomes may offer a viable option for stabilizing carvacrol, however, more studies are necessary to enable its application in food packaging.

Stability of the Retinoid X Receptor-α Homodimer in the Presence and Absence of Rexinoid and Coactivator Peptide.

Differential scanning calorimetry and differential scanning fluorimetry were used to measure the thermal stability of human retinoid X receptor-α ligand binding domain (RXRα LBD) homodimer in the absence or presence of rexinoid and coactivator peptide, GRIP-1. The apo-RXRα LBD homodimer displayed a single thermal unfolding transition with a Tm of 58.7 °C and an unfolding enthalpy (ΔH) of 673 kJ/mol (12.5 J/g), much lower than average value (35 J/g) of small globular proteins. Using a heat capacity change (ΔCp) of 15 kJ/(mol K) determined by measurements at different pH values, the free energy of unfolding (ΔG) of the native state was 33 kJ/mol at 37 °C. Rexinoid binding to the apo-homodimer increased Tm by 5 to 9 °C and increased the ΔG of the native homodimer by 12 to 20 kJ/mol at 37 °C, consistent with the nanomolar dissociation constant (Kd) of the rexinoids. GRIP-1 binding to holo-homodimers containing rexinoid resulted in additional increases in ΔG of 14 kJ/mol, a value that was the same for all three rexinoids. Binding of rexinoid and GRIP-1 resulted in a combined 50% increase in unfolding enthalpy, consistent with reduced structural fluidity and more compact folding observed in other published structural studies. The complexes of UAB110 and UAB111 are each more stable than the UAB30 complex by 8 kJ/mol due to enhanced hydrophobic interactions in the binding pocket because of their larger end groups. This increase in thermodynamic stability positively correlates with their improved RXR activation potency. Thermodynamic measurements are thus valuable in predicting agonist potency.

Aspectos influenciadores da introdução alimentar infantil / Influential aspects of the introduction of infant food / Aspectos que influyen en la introducción de alimentos en la infancia

Introdução: O Ministério da Saúde recomenda que a introdução alimentar infantil seja feita aos 6 meses de idade, porém, observa-se que muitas famílias introduzem alimentos antes dessa faixa etária, o que pode prejudicar a saúde da criança. Isso pode ocorrer devido às crenças existentes, experiências prévias da família, entre outros fatores de ordem social e cultural. Objetivo: Investigar aspectos influenciadores da introdução alimentar de crianças. Métodos: O presente estudo trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal, quantitativa, com amostra não probabilística, de conveniência. Foram incluídos no estudo 22 pais ou responsáveis de crianças com idade até 24 meses. Foi aplicado um questionário com os pais ou responsáveis que continha perguntas relacionadas à criança, à família e aos fatores socioculturais; introdução alimentar; e crenças e conhecimentos sobre introdução alimentar. Resultados: Houve prevalência de aleitamento materno exclusivo até os 6 meses de 31,8% e introdução alimentar em tempo oportuno de 45%. Os resultados demonstram correlação entre escolaridade, renda, presença de plano de saúde e ocupação dos pais fora de casa com conhecimento sobre alimentação complementar. Encontrou-se também correlação entre o conhecimento dos pais e tempo de aleitamento materno exclusivo e tempo em que foi introduzida alimentação complementar. Conclusão: A partir dos resultados pode-se inferir que o nível de instrução, a ocupação e a renda familiar exercem influência no conhecimento dos pais sobre introdução alimentar. E que este conhecimento influencia a duração do aleitamento materno exclusivo e a época da introdução alimentar.

Introduction: The Ministry of Health recommends that the introduction of infant food be made at 6 months of age; however, it is observed that many families introduce food before this age group, which can harm the child's health. This may be due to existing beliefs, previous family experiences, and other social and cultural factors. Objective: To investigate aspects that influence the food introduction for children. Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional, quantitative research, with a non-probabilistic, convenience sample. The study included 22 parents or guardians of children aged up to 24 months. A questionnaire containing questions related to the child, the family and socio-cultural factors and questions about food introduction, beliefs and knowledge about this introduction, was applied with the parents or guardians. Results: There was a prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of 31.8% and right timely feeding of 45%. The results show a correlation between schooling, income, health insurance and occupation of parents outside the home with knowledge about complementary feeding. A correlation was also found between the parents' knowledge and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and the time when complementary feeding was introduced. Conclusion: From the results, it can be inferred that the level of education, occupation and family income influence the parents' knowledge about food introduction. And that this knowledge influences the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and the timing of food introduction.

Introducción: El Ministerio de Salud recomienda la introducción de alimentos para bebés a los 6 meses de edad, sin embargo, se observa que muchas familias introducen alimentos antes de este grupo de edad, lo que puede dañar la salud del niño. Esto puede deberse a creencias existentes, experiencias familiares previas, entre otros factores sociales y culturales. Objetivo: investigar aspectos que influyen en la introducción de alimentos en los niños. Métodos: Este estudio es una investigación transversal, cuantitativa, con una muestra de conveniencia no probabilística. El estudio incluyó a 22 padres o tutores de niños de hasta 24 meses. Se aplicó un cuestionario con los padres o tutores que contenía preguntas relacionadas con el niño, la familia y factores socioculturales; introducción de alimentos; y creencias y conocimientos sobre la introducción de alimentos. Resultados: hubo una prevalencia de lactancia materna exclusiva hasta 6 meses de 31,8% y alimentación oportuna de 45%. Los resultados demuestran una correlación entre escolaridad, ingresos, presencia de seguro de salud y ocupación de padres fuera del hogar con conocimiento sobre alimentación complementaria. También se encontró una correlación entre el conocimiento de los padres y el tiempo de lactancia materna exclusiva y el momento en que se introdujo la alimentación complementaria. Conclusión: a partir de los resultados, se puede inferir que el nivel de educación, la ocupación y el ingreso familiar influyen en el conocimiento de los padres sobre la introducción de alimentos. Y que este conocimiento influye en la duración de lactancia materna exclusiva y el tiempo de introducción de alimentos.

Time-restricted feeding in dark phase of circadian cycle and/or westernized diet cause mixed hyperlipidemia in rats.

INTRODUCTION: Background: the dietary pattern that characterizes western diet is strongly associated with metabolic diseases and excess weight, as well as chronic illnesses. Misaligned feeding schedules can lead to or aggravate the development of such conditions. Aim: this study evaluated the influence of dietary composition and/or time-restricted feeding on the anthropometric and biochemical profile of adult rats. Methods: forty male rats, at 60 days of life, were divided into the following groups: Control (C), Restricted Control (RC), Westernized (W), and Restricted Westernized (RW). Results: westernized groups, in spite of a low energy intake (C = 5399 ± 401.2 kcal; RC = 4279.0 ± 476.2 kcal; W = 4302 ± 619.8 kcal; RW = 4081.0 ± 404.4 kcal, p < 0.001), had a higher body weight (C = 404.6 ± 39.1 g; RC = 335.1 ± 36.5 g; W = 488.9 ± 51.2 g; RW = 438.8 ± 36.5 g, p < 0.001) as compared to their paired controls (RC and C) - around 30 % and 20 % more for RW and W, respectively. The westernized diet caused glucose intolerance and mixed hyperlipidemia, characterized by higher concentrations of cholesterol (C = 40.8 ± 7.4 mg/dL; RC = 76.7 ± 10.8 mg/dL; W = 61.3 ± 20.2 mg/dL; RW = 42.2 ± 8.2 mg/dL), LDLc (C = 17.4 ± 7.5 mg/dL; RC = 38.8 ± 7.2 mg/dL ; W = 45.3 ± 15.8 mg/dL; RW = 11.0 ± 5.8 mg/dL), and triacylglycerol (C = 45.2 ± 15.0 mg/dL; RC = 73.2 ± 21.5 mg/dL ; W = 83.6 ± 23.4 mg/dL; RW = 57.5 ± 13.6 mg/dL) in the serum (p < 0.05). Conclusion: the effect of time-restricted feeding on body weight was strongly dependent on diet composition. The glucose tolerance test showed an influence of the circadian cycle phase. Mixed hyperlipidemia varied according to the presence of westernized diet and/or time-restricted food.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Antecedentes: el patrón dietético que caracteriza a la dieta occidental está fuertemente asociado con las enfermedades metabólicas, así como con el sobrepeso y las enfermedades crónicas. Los horarios de alimentación desorganizados pueden conducir o agravar el desarrollo de tales trastornos. Objetivo: este estudio evaluó la influencia de la composición dietética y/o la alimentación restringida en el perfil antropométrico y bioquímico de ratas adultas. Métodos: cuarenta ratas macho, a los 60 días de vida, se dividieron en los seguientes grupos: control (C); control restringido (RC); occidentalizado (W) y occidentalizado restringido (RW). Resultados: los grupos occidentalizados, a pesar de la baja ingesta energética (C = 5399 ± 401,2 kcal; RC = 4279,0 ± 476,2 kcal; W = 4302 ± 619,8 kcal; RW = 4081,0 ± 404,4 kcal, p < 0,001), tuvieron mayor peso corporal (C = 404,6 ± 39,1 g; RC = 335,1 ± 36,5 g; W = 488,9 ± 51,2 g; RW = 438,8 ± 36,5 g, p < 0,001) que los respectivos grupos de control (RC y C): alrededor de un 30 % y un 20 % más para RW y W, respectivamente. La dieta occidentalizada provocó intolerancia a la glucosa e hiperlipidemia mixta, caracterizada por una mayor concentración de colesterol (C = 40,8 ± 7,4 mg/dL; RC = 76,7 ± 10,8 mg/dL; W = 61,3 ± 20,2 mg/dL; RW = 42,2 ± 8,2 mg/dL), cLDL (C = 17,4 ± 7,5 mg/dL; RC = 38,8 ± 7,2 mg/dL; W = 45,3 ± 15,8 mg/dL; RW = 11,0 ± 5,8 mg/dL) y triacilglicerol (C = 45,2 ± 15,0 mg/dL; RC = 73,2 ± 21,5 mg/dL; W = 83,6 ± 23,4 mg/dL; RW = 57,5 ± 13,6 mg/dL) en el suero (p < 0,05). Conclusión: el efecto de la alimentación restringida en el tiempo sobre el peso corporal fue muy dependiente de la composición de la dieta. La prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa mostró la influencia de la fase del ciclo circadiano. La hiperlipidemia mixta varió según la presencia de la dieta occidentalizada y/o la comida con restricción de tiempo.

Antimicrobial packaging and high hydrostatic pressure: Combined effect in improving the safety of coalho cheese.

Active cellulose acetate films incorporated with oregano essential oil (antimicrobial film) were previously subjected to high hydrostatic pressure treatment (300 MPa/5 min (FHP1) or 400 MPa/10 min (FHP2)) and investigated for possible changes in their antimicrobial efficiency. In parallel, the efficiency of the antimicrobial films, high hydrostatic pressure (300 MPa/5 min or 400 MPa/10 min), or a combination of antimicrobial film and high hydrostatic pressure, was tested on coalho cheese, experimentally contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, stored for 21 days under refrigeration. Investigations in culture media (agar, brain-heart infusion broth, and micro-atmosphere) detected antimicrobial efficiency for all films, with or without high hydrostatic pressure, against the three bacteria. However, the data indicated that the treatment with 300 MPa/5 min may have impaired the migration of oregano essential oil from FHP1, justifying its lower efficiency in solid medium and brain-heart infusion broth. In cheese samples, the combination of antimicrobial film and 400 MPa/10 min caused greater reductions in counts for the three microorganisms, at zero time throughout the entire coalho cheese storage. Only antimicrobial film or combination (antimicrobial film and high hydrostatic pressure) were able to control microbial multiplication during the 21 days. Therefore, the results confirm that the individual use of high hydrostatic pressure (300 MPa/5 min or 400 MPa/10 min) at the level evaluated can allow bacterial multiplication during storage and that the combination of antimicrobial packaging and high hydrostatic pressure has greater potential to ensure a safer coalho cheese.

Percepção do Adolescente frente à sua Condição de Adoecimento Oncológico / Perception of the Adolescent in face of its Condition of Oncological Sickening / Percepción de los Adolescentes ante su Condición de Enfermedad Oncológica

Introdução: O adoecimento por câncer traz uma rotina cansativa por conta das terapêuticas agressivas, e ocorrem mudanças na vida do adolescente. Objetivo: Compreender a percepção do adolescente frente à sua condição de adoecimento oncológico. Método: Pesquisa exploratória, descritiva, qualitativa, por meio da técnica do discurso do sujeito coletivo, realizada com 13 adolescentes, no período de junho a agosto de 2019, no Centro Especializado em Oncologia Pediátrica de um hospital universitário. As entrevistas individuais foram gravadas baseadas nos seguintes questionamentos: Para você, como é estar doente? O que você pensa sobre seu futuro? Como você se relaciona com seus familiares e com a equipe de saúde? Resultados: Foram identificadas oito ideias centrais, entre elas: estar doente é ruim porque limita rotinas da vida normal; o tratamento é doloroso e altera minha imagem corporal; estar doente tem um lado bom; ficar curado e retomar planos para minha vida; o hospital e a equipe de saúde são acolhedores; falta empatia e acolhimento adequado; humanização na assistência; e apoio familiar. Conclusão: Na percepção do adolescente, o adoecimento vai além da condição de saúde física, interfere e limita sua qualidade de vida e dos familiares, e a escuta terapêutica é essencial para uma assistência humanizada

Introduction: Cancer illness brings a tiresome routine due to aggressive therapies, and changes occur in the adolescent's life. Objective: Understand the perception of the adolescent in face of its condition of oncological sickening. Method: Exploratory, descriptive, and qualitative research, through the Collective Subject Discourse technique, conducted with 13 adolescents, from June to August 2019, at the Specialized Center for Pediatric Oncology of a university hospital. The individual interviews were recorded based on the following questions: What is it like to be sick to you? What do you think about your future? How do you relate to your family members and the health team? Results: Eight central ideas were identified, among them: being sick is bad because it limits normal life routines; the treatment is painful and changes my body image; being sick has a good side; be healed and resume plans for my life; the hospital and the team are welcoming; proper welcome and empathy are lacking; humanized care; family support. Conclusion: In the adolescent's perception, illness goes beyond the physical health condition, interferes, and limits theirs and their family quality of life, and therapeutic listening is essential for humanized care

Introducción: La enfermedad del cáncer trae una rutina agotadora debido a terapias agresivas, y se producen cambios en la vida del adolescente. Objetivo: Entender la percepción de lo adolescente ante su condición de enfermedad oncológica. Método: Investigación exploratoria, descriptiva y cualitativa, a través de la técnica de Discurso de Sujeto Colectivo, realizada con 13 adolescentes, de junio a agosto de 2019, en el Centro Especializado de Oncología Pediátrica de un hospital universitario. Las entrevistas individuales fueron grabadas basándose en las siguientes preguntas: ¿Cómo es estar enfermo para usted? ¿Qué opinas de tu futuro? ¿Cómo se relaciona con los miembros de su familia y el equipo de salud? Resultados: Se identificaron ocho ideas centrales, entre ellas: estar enfermo es malo porque limita las rutinas normales de vida; el tratamiento es doloroso y cambia mi imagen corporal; estar enfermo tiene un lado bueno; ser sanado y reanudar los planes para mi vida; el hospital y el equipo de salud son acogedores; carecer de empatía y bienvenida adecuada; humanización en el cuidado; y apoyo familiar. Conclusión: En la percepción del adolescente, la enfermedad va más allá de la condición de salud física, interfiere y limita su calidad de vida y familiares, y la escucha terapéutica es esencial para la atención humanizada

Effects of high hydrostatic pressure processing on structure and functional properties of biodegradable film.

Effects of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) processing (200-400 MPa/5 or 10 min) on functional properties of cellulose acetate (CA) films were investigated. As for mechanical properties, HHP caused a reduction in tensile strength (TS), Young's modulus (YM) and an increase in elongation at break (EB). The pressurized films were more luminous, yellowish, reddish and opaque. Less affinity for water was detected for pressurized films through analyses of contact angle and moisture absorption, in addition to reducing the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the occurrence of delamination for most films, except those treated with 200 MPa/10 min and 300 MPa/10 min. All films showed a predominance of amorphous structure in X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). That is alignment with the results of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), which presented values for glass transition temperature (Tg), water adsorption and melting temperature characteristic of materials with low crystallinity. Films treated with HHP had better mechanical resistance during the sealing at 250 °C. In overall the results confirmed the minimal influence of HHP on the functional properties of the CA film and contributed to the scientific and technological knowledge for its potential application in foods processed by HHP.

'Conta do cigarro' aumenta no Brasil durante a pandemia

Saúde e economia passam por maus bocados, enquanto indústria do tabaco dá prejuízo bilionário ao Estado, mas investe em estratégia para dificultar controle

Functional and antimicrobial properties of cellulose acetate films incorporated with sweet fennel essential oil and plasticizers.

Cellulose acetate (CA) films with sweet fennel essential oil (FEO) were evaluated for possible changes caused by the incorporation of 5, 10, 20 and 30% glycerol. The results show that the incorporation of different concentrations of plasticizer caused an increase in thickness, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), tensile strength (TS), besides altering the optical properties and demonstrating possible chemical interaction with the CA matrix (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that the addition of glycerol caused morphological changes on the surface and internal region of all films. As for antimicrobial activity, the FEO was effective for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. However, all films evaluated did not show activity in inhibiting these microorganisms. Therefore, it is believed that the FEO may have some incompatibility with the CA matrix, being trapped between the polymer chains. Therefore, the results suggest that the incorporation of glycerol caused changes in the functional properties of all films, although it did not result in measurable antimicrobial effects.

Consumo de macro e micronutrientes de idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 atendidos no núcleo de apoio ao idoso / Consumption of macro and micronutrients of elderly people with type 2 diabetes mellitus assisted at the nucleus to support for the elderly

Objetivo: Avaliar o consumo de macro e micronutrientes em idosos diabéticos atendidos no Núcleo de Aten-ção ao Idoso da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (NAI/UFPE). Métodos: Estudo transversal com idosos saudáveis (n=66) e com diabetes (n=55) do NAI/UFPE. Obteve-se dados de prontuários e/ou questionários de frequência alimentar. Análise dietética realizada através do DietWin Professional 2008 e para estatística utilizou-se teste t-Student, admitindo-se nível de significância para p<0,05. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram a prevalência do sexo feminino em ambos os grupos (73,8% no grupo saudável e 86,6% no grupo de idosos com diabetes), sendo idosos saudáveis com média de idade de 72,5 ± 6,2 anos, e grupo com diabetes com média de idade de 61,8 ± 5,0 anos (p<0,05). O excesso de peso prevaleceu no grupo com diabetes (67%) quando comparado ao grupo saudável (49,2%; p<0,027). A ingestão calórica dos pa-cientes com diabetes foi maior (1257,94 kcal) em relação aos indivíduos saudáveis (970,81 kcal; p=0,01). O mesmo ocorreu para consumo de sódio (1810,12 mg x 592,92 mg), cálcio (721,44 mg x 286,23 mg), zinco (8,73 mg x 6,26 mg), magnésio (266,22 mg x 128,60 mg), vitamina A (442,35 µg x 131,83 µg) e E (4,59 mg x 1,45 mg) (p<0,01 para todas as variáveis). Por outro lado, observou-se consumo inferior de po-tássio (1580,83 mg x 2349,23 mg; p<0,01) e proteína (9% x 17%; p<0,01). Conclusão: Foi identificado umpadrão alimentar hipercalórico nos idosos com diabetes, acompanhado de excesso de sódio, cálcio, magnésio e zinco, com reduzido consumo proteico e de potássio (AU)

Objective: Evaluating the macro and micronutrient intake in elderly diabetic patients treated at the Elderly Care Center of the Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with diabetic (n = 55) and non-diabetic (n = 66) older adults. Data were collected from patient charts and food frequency questionnaires. The analysis of diet was performed using the Diet Win Professional 2008. The Student's t-test was used for the statistical analysis, with a 5% significance level. Results: The female sex accounted for 86.6% of the group with diabetes and 73.8% of the group without diabetes. Mean age was 61.8 years and 72.5 years, respectively. The excess weight was more frequent in the group with diabetes (67%) when compared to the group without diabetes (49.2%, p <0.027). The caloric intake of patients with diabetes was higher (1257.94 kcal) than in those without diabetes (970.81 kcal, p = 0.01). With the same statistical significance, we found the same for sodium (1810.12 mg x 592.92 mg), calcium (721.44 mg x 286.23 mg), zinc (8.73 mg x 6.26 mg), magnesium (266.22 mg) mg x 128.60 mg), vitamin A (442.35 µg x 131.83 µg) and E (4.59 mg x 1.45 mg). On the other hand, lower potassium intake (1580.83 mg x 2349.23 mg, p <0.01) and protein (9% x 17%, p <0.01) were observed. Conclusion: A hypercaloric eating pattern was identified in the elderly with diabetes, followed by an excess of sodium, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, with reduced protein and potassium consumption. Keywords: Aged. Diabetes Mellitus. Food Consumption. Diet. INTRODUÇÃO O bem-estar físico e psicológico do idoso está diretamente relacionado à sua habilidade funcional. Dentro desse contexto, a nutrição desempenha im-portante papel na saúde desses indivíduos. Ao com-parar idosos com adultos jovens, observa-se déficit de nutrientes, como ferro, cálcio, magnésio, potássio e zinco entre os indivíduos de maior faixa etária, com maior risco de desenvolver doenças carenciais.1,2,3O desequilíbrio no consumo de nutrientes neste público é consequência de alterações psíquicas, somáticas e sociais.² Estudos mostram que 76% da população brasileira acima dos 40 anos apresenta inadequação do consumo de micronutrientes essenciais, como cálcio, fósforo e magnésio.4 Um padrão dietético ocidentalizado, caracterizado por alto consumo de energia e de combustíveis energéticos, como carboidratos e gorduras saturadas, coincidindo com baixa ingestão de gorduras saudáveis e antioxidantes, contribui para a inflamação e desenvolvimento das doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, dentre elas o diabetes mellitus (DM) tipo 2.5 Dados de 20166 confirmam o potencial protetor de um padrão alimentar baseado em vegetais na prevenção primária do diabetes, em particular entre indivíduos de meia-idade, provavelmente pelo teor reduzido de carboidratos e elevada presença de micronutrientes. No entanto, o impacto que o estilo de vida tem no curso da resistência à insulina depende da adesão individual.A prescrição da dieta balanceada e individualizada é imprescindível e deve ser realizada considerando-se aspectos nutricionais, socioeconômicos, culturais e psicológicos do indivíduo. Além dos de-terminantes sociais, o envelhecimento e a presença de diabetes também podem influenciar direta ou in-diretamente na escolha da qualidade do alimento. As alterações corporais e o estado nutricional próprios do envelhecimento, além da presença de Doenças Crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT), comprometem o estado de saúde e a necessidade nutricional do in-divíduo idoso.7 Quando se trata de idosos portadores de DM, a literatura é escassa, tanto a nível nacional, quanto internacional. Porém, estudo realizado no Japão que avaliou 207 idosos diabéticos, mostrou que o consumo adequado de vitamina B2, pantotenato, cálcio e vegetais podem ajudar a prevenir o declínio cognitivo em homens idosos com diabetes mellitus, reforçando a importância de uma nutrição adequada tanto em macro como em micronutrientes para essa faixa etária 8O objetivo desse trabalho foi identificar aspec-tos alimentares de macro e micronutrientes em ido-sos diabéticos. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal do tipo série de casos, realizado no período de janeiro a dezembro de 2015, com idosos saudáveis (IS) e idosos portadores de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM), selecionados por conveniência no Núcleo de Apoio ao Idoso da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (NAI/UFPE), que atende em média 354 idosos, em todas as especialidades de saúde (2018). Participaram da pesquisa aqueles que concordaram e, posteriormente assinaram um termo de consentimento. (AU)

Structure and functional properties of cellulose acetate films incorporated with glycerol.

Tests were performed with cellulose acetate films (CA) incorporating 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50% (w/v) of glycerol with the purpose of evaluating the possible changes caused by the plasticizer on the functional properties of the packaging. The glass transition temperature (Tg) and relative crystallinity (RC) were are obtained by DSC and XRD, respectively. The results showed that, the presence of glycerol in the films caused increased thickness, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), and optical properties for most treatments. Moreover, morphological changes were evidenced in scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A reduction of tensile strength (TS) and Young's modulus (YM) was observed only in the concentration of 50% of glycerol. Therefore, the results suggest that there was an interaction between glycerol and cellulose acetate, demonstrating that the film has potential for use as food packaging.

Photodynamic therapy for Schistosoma mansoni: Promising outcomes.

The purpose of this study was to assess, for the very first time, the effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on Schistosoma mansoni in vitro by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation throughout the treatment, as well as the behavior of the parasites (mating, motility and contraction/shortening), and damage to their tegument and excretory systems. The parasites were divided into 4 groups: control, photosensitizer, laser and PDT. Light irradiation was delivered with an InGaAlP low-level laser device operating at 660nm, with 40mW and 100J/cm2. For PDT, different toluidine blue dye (TBO) concentrations and times of exposure were utilized. Interestingly, TBO-mediated PDT was able to kill S. mansoni (P<0.001) due to the significant amount of ROS released that inflicted damages in the tegument and excretory system, as well as contraction and cessation of motility. In addition, males of S. mansoni were shown to be more sensitive to PDT if compared to their corresponding females when the optimal TBO concentration of 31.2µL was considered (P=0.0126). PDT presents two major advantages: not inducing microbial resistance and also lacking adverse effects. Therefore, PDT may become a promising therapeutic alternative for schistosomiasis in the near future, especially for cases of allergy and resistance to praziquantel.