Effects of a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation protocol on functional capacity, dyspnea, fatigue, and body composition in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Reduced functional capacity, dyspnea, fatigue, and changes in body composition are common in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS), and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation may improve these parameters. Thus, the present study verified the effects of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (respiratory, aerobic, and resistance muscle training) on submaximal exercise tolerance, dyspnea, fatigue, and body composition. METHODS: This controlled and randomized clinical trial applied a six-week outpatient intervention protocol in individuals over 18 years old (n = 33) with a diagnosis of COVID-19 confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. These individuals were allocated to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (n = 17) or control groups (i.e., educational lectures; n = 16). The cardiopulmonary rehabilitation group performed respiratory, aerobic, and resistance muscle training. Submaximal exercise tolerance, dyspnea, fatigue, and body composition were assessed before and after the protocol. RESULTS: After 6 weeks, the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation group increased the tolerance to submaximal exercise, with a difference of 100.46 m (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.40-193 m) in the distance walked on the six-minute walk test, reduced dyspnea (-1.45, 95% CI: -1.98--0.92) in the modified Medical Research Council, and increased 0.63 kg (95% CI: 0.09-1.18 kg) of muscle mass in the upper limbs compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: The six-week cardiopulmonary rehabilitation protocol improved functional capacity, reduced dyspnea, and increased muscle mass in the upper limbs in individuals with PCS. Thus, these results supported the protocol use in this population and encourage further studies to assess its effectiveness in a large sample.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface water of rivers in Sergipe State, Brazil: A comprehensive analysis of sources, spatial and temporal variation, and ecotoxicological risk.

This study conducted in Sergipe State, Brazil, aimed to investigate the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the surface water of five rivers, determining their sources, spatial and temporal variations, and ecotoxicological risks. Correlation and principal component analyses were utilized to identify the relationship between PAH concentrations and water sample properties. Results indicated higher PAH concentrations during the rainy season, attributed to increased run-off and sediment resuspension. The composition of PAHs suggested a main petroleum source with organic material combustion in minor scale. Ecological risk assessment revealed potential risks to the ecosystem, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring of PAHs pollution. This study highlights the importance of understanding and mitigating PAHs contamination in rivers to protect aquatic ecosystems.

Comprehensive analysis of alkenones by reversed-phase HPLC-MS with unprecedented selectivity, linearity and sensitivity.

Alkenones are among the most widely used paleotemperature biomarkers. Traditionally, alkenones are analyzed using gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID), or GC-chemical ionization-mass spectrometry (GC-CI-MS). However, these methods encounter considerable challenges for samples that exhibit matrix interference or low concentrations, with GC-FID requiring tedious sample preparations and GC-CI-MS suffering from nonlinear response and a narrow linear dynamic range. Here we demonstrate that reversed-phase high pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) methods provide excellent resolution, selectivity, linearity and sensitivity for alkenones in complex matrices. We systematically compared the advantages and limitations of three mass detectors (quadrupole, Orbitrap, and quadrupole-time of flight) and two ionization modes (electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI)) for alkenone analyses. We demonstrate that ESI performs better than APCI as response factors of various unsaturated alkenones are similar. Among the three mass analyzers tested, orbitrap MS provided the lowest limit of detection (0.4, 3.8 and 8.6 pg injected masses for Orbitrap, qTOF and single quadrupole MS, respectively) and the widest linear dynamic range (600, 20 and 30 folds for Orbitrap, qTOF and single quadrupole MS, respectively). Single quadrupole MS operated in ESI mode provides accurate quantification of proxy measurements over a wide range of injection masses, and with its modest instrument cost, represents an ideal method for routine applications. Analysis of global core-top sediment samples confirmed the efficacy of HPLC-MS methods for the detection and quantification of paleotemperature proxies based on alkenones and their superiority over GC-based methods. The analytical method demonstrated in this study should also allow highly sensitive analyses of diverse aliphatic ketones in complex matrices.

Highly sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry detection method for levoglucosan based on Na+ enhancing its ionization efficiency.

The sensitive determination of levoglucosan in aqueous samples has great significance for the study of biomass burning. Although some sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS) detection methods have been developed for levoglucosan, there are still plenty of shortcomings, such as complicated sample pre-treatment procedures, large-amount sample requirements, and poor reproducibility. Herein, a new method for the determination of levoglucosan in the aqueous sample was developed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). In this method, we firstly found that compared with H+, Na+ could effectively enhance the ionization efficiency of levoglucosan, even though the content of H+ is higher in the environment. Moreover, the precursor ion m/z 185.1 [M + Na]+ could be used as a quantitative ion to sensitively detect levoglucosan in aqueous samples. Only 2 µL of un-pretreated sample is required for one injection in this method, and great linearity was obtained (R 2 = 0.9992) using the external standard method when the concentration of levoglucosan was 0.5-50 ng mL-1. The limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were 0.1 ng mL-1 (0.2 pg absolute mass injected) and 0.3 ng mL-1, respectively. Acceptable repeatability, reproducibility, and recovery were achieved. This method has the advantages of high sensitivity, good stability, good reproducibility, and simple operation, which could be widely used for the detection of different concentrations of levoglucosan in various water samples, especially for the detection of samples with low content such as ice core or snow samples.

Ultra-processed food consumption and metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study in Quilombola communities of Alagoas, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: The processing of food can cause changes that turn them into risk factors for chronic diseases. A higher degree of food processing is associated with the development of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including the metabolic syndrome (MetS). The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and the prevalence of MetS and its risk factors, focusing on a population group especially subjected to precarious living conditions and food insecurity. METHOD: Cross-sectional population-based study with women (19 to 59 years) from Quilombola communities of Alagoas. The socioeconomic, demographic, anthropometric, health status, lifestyle, and food intake (24-h recall) variables were analyzed. The dependent variable was the MetS, defined using the harmonization criteria of the Joint Interim Statement, and its components. The foods consumed were categorized according to the Nova Classification, assuming the highest UPF consumption as risk exposure. The measure of association was the prevalence ratio (PR) and respective 95%CI, calculated by Poisson regression with robust variance. We also analyzed the association with the Nova score of UPF consumption. RESULTS: We investigated 895 women (38.9 ± 11.0 years), of whom 48.3% had MetS. On average, 15.9% of the total energy intake came from UPF. Lower Nova scores were associated with a lower prevalence of diabetes and low HDL. Higher UPF consumption was associated with a 30% higher prevalence of hypertension (PR = 1.30; 95%CI: 1.06-1.61). CONCLUSION: The highest UPF consumption was positively associated with the prevalence of hypertension, while a lower Nova score was a protective factor against diabetes and low HDL. UPF consumption in Quilombola communities is important but lower than that observed in the Brazilian population in general. It is suggested that public health programs be implemented to promote healthy eating while valuing the existing eating habits and traditions among the remaining Brazilian Quilombola people.

RESUMO: INTRODUçãO: O processamento de alimentos pode causar alterações que os transformam em fatores de risco para doenças crônicas. Um maior grau de processamento de alimentos está associado ao desenvolvimento de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT), incluindo a síndrome metabólica (SM). O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a relação entre o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados (AUP) e a prevalência de SM e seus fatores de risco, com foco em um grupo populacional especialmente submetido a precárias condições de vida e insegurança alimentar. MéTODO: Estudo transversal de base populacional com mulheres (19 a 59 anos) de comunidades Quilombolas de Alagoas. Foram analisadas as variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas, antropométricas, estado de saúde, estilo de vida e ingestão alimentar (recordatório de 24 horas). A variável dependente foi a SM, definida a partir dos critérios de harmonização do Joint Interim Statement, e seus componentes. Os alimentos consumidos foram categorizados de acordo com a Classificação Nova, assumindo como exposição de risco o maior consumo de AUP. A medida de associação foi a razão de prevalência (RP) e respectivo IC 95%, calculado por regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. Também analisou-se a associação com o Escore Nova de consumo de AUP. RESULTADOS: Foram investigadas 895 mulheres (38,9 ± 11,0 anos), das quais 48,3% tinham SM. Em média, 15,9% da ingestão total de energia provinham de AUP. Escores Nova mais baixos foram associados a uma menor prevalência de diabetes e HDL baixo. O maior consumo de AUP se associou a uma prevalência 30% maior de hipertensão arterial (RP = 1,30; IC95%: 1,06-1,61). CONCLUSãO: O maior consumo de AUP se associou positivamente à prevalência de hipertensão, enquanto o menor escore Nova foi fator de proteção contra diabetes e baixo HDL. O consumo de AUP nas comunidades Quilombolas é relevante, mas inferior ao observado na população brasileira em geral. Sugere-se a implementação de programas de saúde pública que promovam a alimentação saudável, valorizando os hábitos e tradições alimentares existentes entre os remanescentes Quilombolas brasileiros.

What is the best anthropometric predictor for identifying higher risk for cardiovascular diseases in afro-descendant Brazilian women? A cross-sectional population-based study.

OBJECTIVES: Excessive adiposity is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Anthropometric indices are useful in screening individuals at higher risk for these diseases. However, there are no studies that show which of these indices has the best discriminatory power among Afro-descendant Brazilian women. The objective of this study was to assess the accuracy of anthropometric indices in identifying risk factors for CVD in Afro-descendant Brazilian women and define the one most suitable for use under the operating conditions prevailing in Quilombola communities. METHODS: A household random sample of 1661 women descendants of African slaves were analyzed. The anthropometric predictors analyzed were waist circumference (WC), body mass index, waist-to-height ratio, conicity index (C-index), body shape index, and percentage of body fat (%BF; estimated by bioimpedance). The assessed risk factors for CVD were arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemias (hypertriglyceridemia; hypercholesterolemia; low high-density lipoprotein). To identify the statistical significance between the differences in the areas under the ROC curves (AUC) obtained with the different predictors and outcomes, was used the Bonferroni test adjusted for multiple analyses by the Sidak method. RESULTS: The AUC obtained with WC was higher (p < .05) or similar (p > .05) to those obtained with the other predictors 29 times out of 30 possibilities (six predictors x five outcomes). Only the AUC obtained with C-index in identifying hypercholesterolemia was significantly higher than that with WC. CONCLUSION: Due to its accuracy and greater operational simplicity, WC was the most adequate predictor for identifying Afro-descendant women at greatest risk for CVD.

Atmospheric particle-bound polycyclic aromatic compounds over two distinct sites in Pakistan: Characteristics, sources and health risk assessment.

Much attention is drawn to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as an air pollutant due to their toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic properties. Therefore, to understand the levels, seasonality, sources and potential health risk of PAHs in two distinct geographical locations at Karachi and Mardan in Pakistan, total suspended particle (TSP) samples were collected for over one year period. The average total PAH concentrations were 31.5 ± 24.4 and 199 ± 229 ng/m3 in Karachi and Mardan, respectively. The significantly lower concentration in Karachi was attributed to diffusion and dilution of the PAHs by the influence of clean air mass from the Arabian sea and high temperature, enhancing the volatilization of the particle phase PAHs to the gas phase. Conversely, the higher concentration (~6 times) in Mardan was due to large influence from local and regional emission sources. A clear seasonality was observed at both the sites, with the higher values in winter and post-monsoon due to higher emissions and less scavenging, and lower values during monsoon season due to the dilution effect. Diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis indicated that PAHs in both sites originated from traffic and mixed combustion sources (fossil fuels and biomass). The average total BaP equivalent concentrations (BaPeq) in Karachi and Mardan were 3.26 and 34 ng/m3, respectively, which were much higher than the WHO guideline of 1 ng/m3. The average estimates of incremental lifetime cancer risk from exposure to airborne BaPeq via inhalation indicated a risk to human health from atmospheric PAHs at both sites.

Pendimethalin biodegradation by soil strains of Burkholderia sp. and Methylobacterium radiotolerans.

Pendimethalin herbicide is widely used and persists in the environment as a contaminant causing negative impacts, including for human health. Microorganisms have the capacity to remove many contaminants from the environment. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of soil bacterial species prospected by molecular modelling of cytochrome P450 in to degrade pendimethalin. Strains of Burkholderia sp. and Methylobacterium radiotolerans were cultivated in a mineral saline medium enriched with 281 mg/L pendimethalin (MSPEN) and another containing glucose 1.0 g/L as extra carbon source (MSPENGLI). Both strains were able to degrade pendimethalin under the two conditions experienced. Burkholderia sp. F7G4PR33-4 was more efficient in degrading 65% of the herbicide in MSPEN medium, with 49.3% in MSPENGLI; while Methylobacterium radiotolerans A6A1PR46-4 degraded 55.4% in MSPEN and 29.8% in MSPENGLI mediums. These findings contribute to the expansion of knowledge on the competence of isolates of these two bacterial genera in degrading herbicidal xenobiotics and biotechnological potential for pendimethalin degradation and bioremediation.

Assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in three environmental components from a tropical estuary in Northeast Brazil.

The evaluation of occurrence, risk quotient (RQ), bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and sources of PAH was conducted in Sergipe-Poxim estuarine system. PAH distribution that ranged from 7.1 to 30.9 ng L-1 (surface water, SW), 5.4 to 19.5 ng g-1 (sediment, S), and 4.3 to 18.1 ng g-1 (oyster, O), characterized the environment with low contamination; 2-3 (SW), 5-6 (S), and 4 (O) PAH rings accounted for 54.5%, 68.7%, and 87.7%, respectively, along with naphthalene (SW), dibenzo(a,h)anthracene (S), and pyrene (O) as the prevailing compounds. PCA suggested the predominance of particular groups related to SW (LMW-PAH), S (HMW-PAH), and O (pyrene and fluoranthene). Furthermore, one sample of O presented a high PAH bioavailability as shown through the BAF, with emphasis on pyrene (BAF = 26.8). The RQ showed a low to moderate range in SW and S; hence, in-depth information about the possible toxic effect in organisms of this region is required.

Desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze outcomes in fetuses and newborns exposed to infections during pregnancy. METHODS: Cross-sectional, quantitative study, carried out in a public maternity hospital in Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. The sample consisted of 145 medical records of pregnant women admitted between 2015 and 2018 with possible vertically transmitted infections. Incomplete medical records or those that did not make it possible to describe fetal/neonatal exposure were excluded. The chi-squared test was used to verify the association between variables. RESULTS: A greater occurrence of congenital syphilis was observed (28.8%). There was more than one outcome in the same individual, such as low birth weight (39%), respiratory distress (20.5%), oligohydramnios (20%), congenital malformation and small size for gestational age (10.8%). Maternal infections and the number of prenatal visits revealed an association with fetal/neonatal outcome (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION: The data obtained indicate the occurrence of unfavorable fetal/neonatal outcomes when related to neonatal infections and indicate the need for strategies that strengthen the coping with vertical transmissions.

Silver (I)-dimercaptotriazine functionalized silica: A highly selective liquid chromatography stationary phase targeting unsaturated molecules.

Silver(I)-mercaptopropyl (Ag-MP) functionalized silica gel has demonstrated its effectiveness in separating various unsaturated organic compounds including unsaturated fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs), triglycerols (TAGs) and long-chain alkyl ketones (alkenones). While Ag-MP stationary phase displays many advantages over the conventional silver ion-impregnated silica gel (e.g., stability, high recovery, etc.), potential drawbacks of Ag-MP include relatively low retentions for unsaturated molecules, which could limit chromatographic resolutions under certain circumstances. In this study, we evaluate a new silver-thiolate stationary phase: silver(I)-dimercaptotriazine (Ag-DMT) functionalized silica gel targeting the separation of unsaturated compounds. We show Ag-DMT affords substantially higher retention factors, peak resolutions and capacities for TAGs and FAEEs than Ag-MP does. Ag-DMT also yields higher purity eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) from fish oil FAEE mixtures than Ag-MP. In addition, Ag-DMT resolves double bond positional and cis/trans-isomers of C18:1 fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) as well as unsaturated methyl/ethyl alkenones with different number of double bonds. Based on van't Hoff plots, enthalpy changes during the adsorption of unsaturated FAEEs onto Ag-DMT are ~2 times higher than those on Ag-MP. Such difference may be attributed to the stronger electron-withdrawing effect of the thiol group on DMT, which results in more positively charged silver ions hence greater interactions with unsaturated molecules. The stronger interaction between double bonds and Ag-DMT is further corroborated by density-functional theory (DFT) calculations. Ag-DMT shows its high stability for repeated uses in the separation of TAGs over 319 runs, with peak resolutions decreasing by < 3%. Collectively, our data demonstrate the exceptionally high efficiency of Ag-DMT column for separating unsaturated molecules.

Desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez / Resultados en fetos y neonatos expuestos a infecciones en el embarazo / Desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze outcomes in fetuses and newborns exposed to infections during pregnancy. Methods: Cross-sectional, quantitative study, carried out in a public maternity hospital in Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. The sample consisted of 145 medical records of pregnant women admitted between 2015 and 2018 with possible vertically transmitted infections. Incomplete medical records or those that did not make it possible to describe fetal/neonatal exposure were excluded. The chi-squared test was used to verify the association between variables. Results: A greater occurrence of congenital syphilis was observed (28.8%). There was more than one outcome in the same individual, such as low birth weight (39%), respiratory distress (20.5%), oligohydramnios (20%), congenital malformation and small size for gestational age (10.8%). Maternal infections and the number of prenatal visits revealed an association with fetal/neonatal outcome (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The data obtained indicate the occurrence of unfavorable fetal/neonatal outcomes when related to neonatal infections and indicate the need for strategies that strengthen the coping with vertical transmissions.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar resultados en fetos y neonatos expuestos a infecciones en el embarazo. Métodos: Estudio transversal, cuantitativo, realizado en maternidad pública, en Maceió, Alagoas, Brasil. Muestra compuesta por 145 prontuarios de embarazadas admitidas entre 2015 y 2018 con posibles infecciones de trasmisión vertical. Excluidos prontuarios incompletos lo que no posibilitaron describir la exposición fetal/neonatal. Utilizó prueba chi-cuadrado para verificar la relación entre las variables. Resultados: Observó mayor ocurrencia de la sífilis congénita (28,8%). Hubo más de un resultado en el mismo individuo, como bajo peso al nacimiento (39%), dificultad respiratoria (20,5%), oligohidramnios (20%), malformación congénita y tamaño pequeño para edad gestacional (10,8%). Las infecciones maternas y el número de consultas prenatal mostraron relación con el resultado fetal/neonatal (p ≤ 0,05). Conclusión: Los datos obtenidos apuntan ocurrencia de resultados fetales/neonatales desfavorables cuando relacionados a las infecciones neonatales e indican la necesidad de estrategias que fortalezcan el enfrentamiento a las transmisiones verticales.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez. Métodos: Estudo transversal, quantitativo, realizado em uma maternidade pública, em Maceió, Alagoas, Brasil. A amostra foi composta por 145 prontuários de gestantes admitidas entre 2015 e 2018 com possíveis infecções de transmissão vertical. Foram excluídos prontuários incompletos ou que não possibilitaram descrever a exposição fetal/neonatal. Utilizou-se teste qui-quadrado para verificar a associação entre as variáveis. Resultados: Observou-se maior ocorrência da sífilis congênita (28,8%). Houve mais de um desfecho no mesmo indivíduo, como baixo peso ao nascimento (39%), desconforto respiratório (20,5%), oligodramnia (20%), malformação congênita e tamanho pequeno para idade gestacional (10,8%). As infecções maternas e o número de consultas pré-natal mostraram associação com o desfecho fetal/neonatal (p ≤ 0,05). Conclusão: Os dados obtidos apontam a ocorrência de desfechos fetais/neonatais desfavoráveis quando relacionados a infecções neonatais e indicam a necessidade de estratégias que fortaleçam o enfrentamento das transmissões verticais.

Desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez / Resultados en fetos y neonatos expuestos a infecciones en el embarazo / Desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze outcomes in fetuses and newborns exposed to infections during pregnancy. Methods: Cross-sectional, quantitative study, carried out in a public maternity hospital in Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. The sample consisted of 145 medical records of pregnant women admitted between 2015 and 2018 with possible vertically transmitted infections. Incomplete medical records or those that did not make it possible to describe fetal/neonatal exposure were excluded. The chi-squared test was used to verify the association between variables. Results: A greater occurrence of congenital syphilis was observed (28.8%). There was more than one outcome in the same individual, such as low birth weight (39%), respiratory distress (20.5%), oligohydramnios (20%), congenital malformation and small size for gestational age (10.8%). Maternal infections and the number of prenatal visits revealed an association with fetal/neonatal outcome (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The data obtained indicate the occurrence of unfavorable fetal/neonatal outcomes when related to neonatal infections and indicate the need for strategies that strengthen the coping with vertical transmissions.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar resultados en fetos y neonatos expuestos a infecciones en el embarazo. Métodos: Estudio transversal, cuantitativo, realizado en maternidad pública, en Maceió, Alagoas, Brasil. Muestra compuesta por 145 prontuarios de embarazadas admitidas entre 2015 y 2018 con posibles infecciones de trasmisión vertical. Excluidos prontuarios incompletos lo que no posibilitaron describir la exposición fetal/neonatal. Utilizó prueba chi-cuadrado para verificar la relación entre las variables. Resultados: Observó mayor ocurrencia de la sífilis congénita (28,8%). Hubo más de un resultado en el mismo individuo, como bajo peso al nacimiento (39%), dificultad respiratoria (20,5%), oligohidramnios (20%), malformación congénita y tamaño pequeño para edad gestacional (10,8%). Las infecciones maternas y el número de consultas prenatal mostraron relación con el resultado fetal/neonatal (p ≤ 0,05). Conclusión: Los datos obtenidos apuntan ocurrencia de resultados fetales/neonatales desfavorables cuando relacionados a las infecciones neonatales e indican la necesidad de estrategias que fortalezcan el enfrentamiento a las transmisiones verticales.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar desfechos em fetos e recém-nascidos expostos a infecções na gravidez. Métodos: Estudo transversal, quantitativo, realizado em uma maternidade pública, em Maceió, Alagoas, Brasil. A amostra foi composta por 145 prontuários de gestantes admitidas entre 2015 e 2018 com possíveis infecções de transmissão vertical. Foram excluídos prontuários incompletos ou que não possibilitaram descrever a exposição fetal/neonatal. Utilizou-se teste qui-quadrado para verificar a associação entre as variáveis. Resultados: Observou-se maior ocorrência da sífilis congênita (28,8%). Houve mais de um desfecho no mesmo indivíduo, como baixo peso ao nascimento (39%), desconforto respiratório (20,5%), oligodramnia (20%), malformação congênita e tamanho pequeno para idade gestacional (10,8%). As infecções maternas e o número de consultas pré-natal mostraram associação com o desfecho fetal/neonatal (p ≤ 0,05). Conclusão: Os dados obtidos apontam a ocorrência de desfechos fetais/neonatais desfavoráveis quando relacionados a infecções neonatais e indicam a necessidade de estratégias que fortaleçam o enfrentamento das transmissões verticais.

Electrochemical sensor based on biochar and reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite for carbendazim determination.

For the first time, a nanocomposite based on biochar and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was employed to construct a modified carbon paste electrode and applied for the determination of carbendazim (CBZ). Biochar was obtained by through pyrolysis of Eichhornia crassipes biomass, also known how "Aguapé" at 400 °C. The modified electrode with our nanocomposite proposal shows to be able to preconcentrate CBZ and presented the highest analytical response in comparison to the unmodified electrode and by the electrodes prepared with the proposed materials separately. Using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) under optimized conditions, the sensor showed a linear dynamic response (LDR) from 30 to 900 nmol L-1, a limit of detection (LOD) of 2.3 nmol L-1 and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 7.7 nmol L-1. No significant influence of inorganic ions or organic compounds on sensor response was verified, considering the recovery evaluation data. The proposed sensor was successfully applied for the determination of CBZ in spiked whole orange juice, lettuce leaves, drinking water, and wastewater samples. Good recovery values were found using the ex-situ methodology, showing excellent analytical performance of the electrochemical sensor based on biochar and rGO nanocomposite.

Population biology and sexual dimorphism in the freshwater prawn Atya scabra (Decapoda: Atyidae) in the Contas River, Bahia, Brazil

Introduction: Crustaceans have economic and ecological importance and the role of caridean crustaceans in lentic environments is crucial to maintain the trophic structure. The species Atya scabra is occasionally associated with fisheries, especially in Northeast and Northern Brazil. Objective: To determine the population structure, reproductive period, patterns of growth and distribution of size classes among sexes in a population of the prawn A. scabra in the De Contas River, Bahia, Brazil. Methods: Individuals were sampled in a period of one year by passing sieves through marginal vegetation and using dragnets. In the laboratory, we recorded the sex of the individuals and measured them using a pachymeter with 0.001 mm precision. The dimensions measured were CL (carapace length), TL (total length) and CW (carapace width). In order to analyze data, linear models for the relationships CL × CW were constructed and the type of allometry for each sex was determined. Individuals were grouped into size classes of 5 mm intervals. A chi-square test (χ2) was used to test deviation from the 1:1 sex ratio. The proportion of ovigerous females was registered for each month to determine the breeding period. Results: A total of 517 individuals were collected, 328 were males and 186 females of which 169 were ovigerous. Males showed a polymodal distribution in size classes and were significantly larger than females, which presented a unimodal distribution in size classes. The observed growth patterns demonstrated that both sexes present negative allometry. However, sexual dimorphism was detected when comparing the growth parameters. Ovigerous females were sampled the entire year and size-frequency data demonstrated that recruitment also occurs throughout the year, which allowed us to classify their reproduction as continuous. Conclusions: Our data is essential to draw sustainable fishery management strategies. We suggest a minimum capture size of 70 mm and capture restrictions from May to August.

Introducción: Los crustáceos tienen importancia económica y ecológica y el papel de los crustáceos carideanos en los entornos lénticos es crucial para mantener la estructura trófica. La especie Atya scabra se asocia ocasionalmente con la pesca, especialmente en el noreste y norte de Brasil. Objetivo: Determinar la estructura de la población, período reproductivo, patrones de crecimiento y la distribución de las clases de tamaño entre los sexos en una población de gambas A. scabra en el río de Contas, Bahía, Brasil. Métodos: Se tomaron muestras de los individuos en un período de un año pasando tamices en la vegetación marginal y usando redes de arrastre (dragnets). En el laboratorio, registramos el sexo de los individuos y los medimos utilizando un paquímetro con precisión de 0.001 mm. Las dimensiones medidas fueron CL (longitud del caparazón), TL (longitud total) y CW (ancho del caparazón). Para analizar los datos, se construyeron modelos lineales para las relaciones CL × CW y se determinó el tipo de alometría para cada sexo. Los individuos se agruparon en clases de tamaño de intervalos de 5 mm. La prueba de chi-cuadrado (χ2) se utilizó para determinar desviaciones en la proporción de sexos 1:1. La proporción de hembras ovígeras se registró en cada mes para determinar el período de reproducción. Resultados: Se recolectaron un total de 517 individuos, 328 machos y 186 hembras, de las cuales 169 eran ovígeras. Los machos mostraron una distribución polimodal en las clases de tamaño y fueron significativamente más grandes que las hembras, las cuales presentaron una distribución unimodal en las clases de tamaño. Los patrones de crecimiento observados demostraron que ambos sexos presentan alometría negativa. Sin embargo, se detectó dimorfismo sexual al comparar los parámetros de crecimiento. Se tomaron muestras de hembras ovígeras durante todo el año y los datos de frecuencia de tamaño demostraron que el reclutamiento también se produce durante todo el año, lo que nos permitió clasificar la reproducción como continua. Conclusiones: Nuestros datos son esenciales para elaborar estrategias sostenibles de gestión pesquera. Sugerimos un tamaño mínimo de captura de 70 mm y restricciones de captura desde mayo hasta agosto.

The impact of anthropogenic activity at the tropical Sergipe-Poxim estuarine system, Northeast Brazil: Fecal indicators.

The individual concentrations and sources of sterols in sediments samples collected in two periods 2017 (dry period /March and rainy period/August) were determined along with the Sergipe-Poxim estuarine system, Aracaju, Brazil. The individual sterols concentration ranged from 135 to 21,746 ng g-1 (March) and 191 to 144,748 ng g-1 (August) and the distribution was mainly dominated by ß-sitosterol in both periods with 37.2% (March) and 70.8% (August) of the total sterols found. In all the sampling sites, the coprostanol levels were higher than 100 ng g1 (March) and 500 ng g-1 (August), indicating sewage contamination. Diagnostic ratios between sterols suggested the predominance of sewage sources. Pearson correlation assessed a correlation significant (March) and negligible (August) between coprostanol concentration levels and organic matter. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the sterols levels influenced strongly C1, as well as C2 distinguished between the plant sterols and from sewage.

Elaboração, validação e reprodutibilidade de um questionário de frequência alimentar para hipertensos e/ou diabéticos / Development, validation and reproducibility of a food frequency questionnaire focused on adult hypertensive and/or diabetic individuals

Objetivo: O presente estudo teve por objetivo elaborar e avaliar a validade e a reprodutibilidade de um questionário de frequência alimentar (QFA) para hipertensos e/ou diabéticos do município de Maceió-AL, Brasil. Métodos: O QFA foi elaborado a partir de 1.603 inquéritos dietéticos recordatórios de 24 h (IDR24H). Para avaliar a validade e a reprodutibilidade do QFA aplicaram-se, em uma amostra de 40 indivíduos, três QFAS e três IDR24H concomitantemente e com intervalo máximo de 45 dias entre as aplicações. A validade foi avaliada por meio dos coeficientes de correlação de Pearson (CCP) ou de Spearman (CCS) entre o QFA 1, 2 e 3, e a média dos 3IDR24H, adotando-se o IDR24H como padrão de referência; e a reprodutibilidade, por meio do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI) entre os QFAs. Resultados: Quanto à validade, os CCP ou CCS atingiram os valores recomendados entre 0,4 e 0,7 para energia, macronutrientes, cálcio e sódio para as aplicações 1 e 2 do QFA (validade satisfatória); e para os demais nutrientes, CCP < 0,4. Quanto à reprodutibilidade, todos os nutrientes estudados apresentaram CCI dentro dos valores recomendados, exceto potássio entre QFA1 e QFA3 (CCI = 0,28). Conclusão: O QFA elaborado e avaliado neste estudo constitui um bom instrumento de avaliação de consumo alimentar para avaliação de energia, macronutrientes, cálcio e sódio para hipertensos e/ou diabéticos, podendo fornecer informações importantes para estudos de epidemiologia nutricional neste público-alvo. (AU)

Objective: The aims of the current study are to develop and assess the validity and reproducibility of a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) focused on hypertensive and/or diabetic individuals living in Maceió City - AL, Brazil. Methods: The questionnaire was developed based on 1,603 twenty-four-hour recall dietary surveys (24-HDR). Three FFQs and three 24-HDRs were concomitantly applied to a sample of 40 individuals, at maximum interval of 45 days between applications, in order to assess FFQ validity and reproducibility. Validity assessment was based on Pearson's (PCC) or Spearman's (SCC) correlation coefficient between FFQs 1, 2, 3 and the mean of three 24-HDRs (the 24- HDR was used as reference standard). Reproducibility assessment was based on the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) among FFQs. Results: PCCs or SCCs recorded the recommended validity values (from 0.4 and 0.7) for energy, macronutrients, calcium and sodium in FFQs 1 and 2 (satisfactory validity), whereas other nutrients recorded PCC < 0.4. All investigated nutrients presented ICC within the recommended reproducibility values, except for potassium, which recorded ICC equal to 0.28 between FFQs 1 and 3. Conclusion: The FFQ developed and evaluated in the current study is a good food intake-evaluation instrument to assess energy, macronutrients, calcium and sodium in hypertensive and/or diabetic individuals, since it can provide important information for studies about nutritional epidemiology in this target population. (AU)

Sources and spatio-temporal distribution of aerosol polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons throughout the Tibetan Plateau.

With the recent rapid development of urbanization, atmospheric pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have attracted wide attention, particularly in remote regions. The Tibetan Plateau (TP), known as the third pole is adjacent to areas with heavy atmospheric pollution, such as South and East Asia. However, the spatial distribution and sources of PAHs on the TP remain unclear. Thus, we investigated the sources and spatio-temporal distributions of PAHs on the TP by combining aerosol sample data from six sites, including Ngari (NG), Laohugou (LHG), Beiluhe (BLH), Nam Co (NMC), Everest (EV), and Yulong (YL), in 2014 and 2016. The average concentrations of 15 PAHs at the six sites ranged from 3.4 to 15.2 ng m-3, with a decreasing trend from the marginal to inner areas of the plateau. The highest concentration was that in YL in the southeastern part of the TP, with an average of 15.2 ng m-3. The PAH concentrations in NG, NMC, and YL were higher in autumn and winter and lower in summer. High molecular weight PAHs usually exists in the particulate phase whereas tricyclic PAHs can change from particulate to gaseous phase, therefore it can indicate long-range transport. Tricyclic PAHs were the dominant PAHs on the TP (44%-58%), indicating long-range atmospheric transport as the major source of PAHs. Principal component analysis (PCA) and diagnostic ratio analysis showed that biomass and coal combustion were the major sources of PAHs in inland areas of the TP; however, marginal plateau areas were affected by fossil fuel emissions. Compared with levels in Beijing and other urban sites, the toxic equivalent quantity (TEQ) was low (0.36-1.06 ng m-3), suggesting a low risk to human and ecosystem health.

Evaluation of consumption of food and predictors of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive protectors of the State of Alagoas, Brazil. / Consumo de alimentos preditores e protetores de risco cardiovacular por hipertensos do estado de Alagoas, Brasil.

The present article aimed to evaluate the consumption of protective foods and predictors of cardiovascular (CV) risk and its relationship with cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) by hypertensive individuals in the state of Alagoas. A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out from 2013 to 2016 with 655 hypertensive adults of both sexes. Food consumption was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire with measurements converted to scores and the foods were divided into three groups: I - processed foods/CV risk predictors; II - ultraprocessed foods/higher CV risk predictors; III - in natura or minimally processed foods/ CV risk protectors. Socioeconomic, demographic, biochemical, clinical and anthropometric variables were also analyzed. The consumption scores of food groups I, II and III were, respectively, 0.11; 0.13 and 0.24 (p = 0.001). The consumption of processed foods was correlated positively with high blood cholesterol (p = 0.045) and negatively with age (p = 0.001); while that of ultraprocessed foods was correlated with the sedentary lifestyle (p = 0.01). Thus, it was observed a relationship between the consumption of CV risk predictors foods with high blood cholesterol and sedentary lifestyle, reflecting the need for nutricional education actions.

O presente artigo teve como objetivo avaliar o consumo de alimentos protetores e preditores de risco cardiovascular (CV) e sua relação com fatores de risco cardiovascular (FRCV) por hipertensos do estado de Alagoas. Estudo transversal, de base populacional, com 655 adultos, hipertensos, de ambos os sexos, estudados no período de 2013 a 2016. O consumo alimentar foi avaliado por um questionário de frequência alimentar validado com mensuração convertida em escores e os alimentos foram divididos em três grupos: I - processados/preditores de risco CV; II - ultraprocessados/maiores preditores de risco CV; III - alimentos in natura ou minimamente processados/protetores de risco CV. Foram também analisadas variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas, bioquímicas, clínicas e antropométricas. Os escores de consumo dos grupos de alimentos I, II e III foram, respectivamente, 0,11; 0,13 e 0,24 (p = 0,001). O consumo de alimentos processados se correlacionou positivamente com o colesterol sérico elevado (p = 0,045) e negativamente com a idade (p = 0,001); já o de alimentos ultraprocessados correlacionou-se com o sedentarismo (p = 0,01). Assim, observou-se relação entre o consumo de alimentos preditores de risco CV com sedentarismo e colesterol elevado, refletindo a necessidade de ações de educação nutricional.

Consumo de alimentos preditores e protetores de risco cardiovacular por hipertensos do estado de Alagoas, Brasil / Evaluation of consumption of food and predictors of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive protectors of the State of Alagoas, Brazil

Resumo O presente artigo teve como objetivo avaliar o consumo de alimentos protetores e preditores de risco cardiovascular (CV) e sua relação com fatores de risco cardiovascular (FRCV) por hipertensos do estado de Alagoas. Estudo transversal, de base populacional, com 655 adultos, hipertensos, de ambos os sexos, estudados no período de 2013 a 2016. O consumo alimentar foi avaliado por um questionário de frequência alimentar validado com mensuração convertida em escores e os alimentos foram divididos em três grupos: I - processados/preditores de risco CV; II - ultraprocessados/maiores preditores de risco CV; III - alimentos in natura ou minimamente processados/protetores de risco CV. Foram também analisadas variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas, bioquímicas, clínicas e antropométricas. Os escores de consumo dos grupos de alimentos I, II e III foram, respectivamente, 0,11; 0,13 e 0,24 (p = 0,001). O consumo de alimentos processados se correlacionou positivamente com o colesterol sérico elevado (p = 0,045) e negativamente com a idade (p = 0,001); já o de alimentos ultraprocessados correlacionou-se com o sedentarismo (p = 0,01). Assim, observou-se relação entre o consumo de alimentos preditores de risco CV com sedentarismo e colesterol elevado, refletindo a necessidade de ações de educação nutricional.

Abstract The present article aimed to evaluate the consumption of protective foods and predictors of cardiovascular (CV) risk and its relationship with cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) by hypertensive individuals in the state of Alagoas. A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out from 2013 to 2016 with 655 hypertensive adults of both sexes. Food consumption was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire with measurements converted to scores and the foods were divided into three groups: I - processed foods/CV risk predictors; II - ultraprocessed foods/higher CV risk predictors; III - in natura or minimally processed foods/ CV risk protectors. Socioeconomic, demographic, biochemical, clinical and anthropometric variables were also analyzed. The consumption scores of food groups I, II and III were, respectively, 0.11; 0.13 and 0.24 (p = 0.001). The consumption of processed foods was correlated positively with high blood cholesterol (p = 0.045) and negatively with age (p = 0.001); while that of ultraprocessed foods was correlated with the sedentary lifestyle (p = 0.01). Thus, it was observed a relationship between the consumption of CV risk predictors foods with high blood cholesterol and sedentary lifestyle, reflecting the need for nutricional education actions.