Randomized crossover clinical trial of a Mindfulness-based intervention for nurse leaders: A pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the effects of a Mindfulness-based intervention on nurse leaders' emotional intelligence and resilience. METHOD: a pilot study of a randomized crossover clinical trial. The sample (n=32) was randomized into Group A (n=18) and Group B (n=14) and evaluated at the pre-test, post-test and follow-up moments. The outcomes were assessed using the Emotional Intelligence Measure, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Questionnaire and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, and analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models. RESULTS: a total of 32 nurses with a mean age of 42.6 years old were evaluated. The analyses showed significant interactions between the effects of the group x moment factors on the Self-motivation (p=0.005), Sociability (p<0.001), Self-control (p=0.013), and Total (p=0.002) emotional intelligence skill scores; as well as on the Observe (p=0.042), Describe (p=0.008), Non-judgment (p<0.001), Act with awareness (p=0.004) and Total (p<0.001) mindfulness facets. Post-test: there was a statistically significant increase in the Sociability (p=0.009) and Self-control (p=0.015) emotional intelligence skills; as well as in the Non-judgment (p=0.022) and Total (p=0.002) mindfulness facets. Follow-up: a significant increase was observed in the Non-judgment (p=0.024) and Total (p=0.026) mindfulness facets. The "resilience" variable did not present statistical significance in the "group x moment" factor, both in the post-test and during follow-up. CONCLUSION: the Mindfulness-based intervention used proved to be effective in increasing nurse leaders' emotional intelligence and dispositional mindfulness skills. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-3c62gy), registered on March 4 th , 2020, updated on September 16 th , 2022. BACKGROUND: (1) Unpublished study of a Mindfulness-based intervention with nurse leaders. BACKGROUND: (2) Positive effect on the participants' emotional intelligence and mindfulness. BACKGROUND: (3) Advances in knowledge about emotional intelligence and leadership resilience. BACKGROUND: (4) It encourages the implementation of sensitive and innovative health strategies.

Randomized crossover clinical trial of a Mindfulness-based intervention for nurse leaders: A pilot study / Ensayo clínico aleatorizado cruzado de una intervención basada en mindfulness con enfermeros líderes: estudio piloto / Ensaio clínico randomizado cruzado de uma intervenção baseada em mindfulness em enfermeiros líderes: estudo-piloto

Objective: to analyze the effects of a Mindfulness-based intervention on nurse leaders' emotional intelligence and resilience. Method: a pilot study of a randomized crossover clinical trial. The sample (n=32) was randomized into Group A (n=18) and Group B (n=14) and evaluated at the pre-test, post-test and follow-up moments. The outcomes were assessed using the Emotional Intelligence Measure, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Questionnaire and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, and analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models. Results: a total of 32 nurses with a mean age of 42.6 years old were evaluated. The analyses showed significant interactions between the effects of the group x moment factors on the Self-motivation (p=0.005), Sociability (p<0.001), Self-control (p=0.013), and Total (p=0.002) emotional intelligence skill scores; as well as on the Observe (p=0.042), Describe (p=0.008), Non-judgment (p<0.001), Act with awareness (p=0.004) and Total (p<0.001) mindfulness facets. Post-test: there was a statistically significant increase in the Sociability (p=0.009) and Self-control (p=0.015) emotional intelligence skills; as well as in the Non-judgment (p=0.022) and Total (p=0.002) mindfulness facets. Follow-up: a significant increase was observed in the Non-judgment (p=0.024) and Total (p=0.026) mindfulness facets. The "resilience" variable did not present statistical significance in the "group x moment" factor, both in the post-test and during follow-up. Conclusion: the Mindfulness-based intervention used proved to be effective in increasing nurse leaders' emotional intelligence and dispositional mindfulness skills. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-3c62gy), registered on March 4 th , 2020, updated on September 16 th , 2022.

Objetivo: analizar los efectos de una intervención basada en mindfulness sobre la inteligencia emocional y la resiliencia de enfermeros líderes. Método: estudio piloto de un ensayo clínico aleatorizado cruzado. Muestra (n=32) aleatorizada en el grupo A (n=18) y grupo B (n=14), se los evaluó en el pretest, postest y seguimiento. Los resultados fueron evaluados mediante la Medida de Inteligencia Emocional, el Cuestionario de Resiliencia de Connor-Davidson y el Cuestionario Mindfulness de Cinco Facetas, y analizados por el Generalized Linear Mixed Models . Resultados: fueron evaluadas 32 enfermeras con una edad promedio de 42,6 años. Los análisis mostraron interacciones significativas de los efectos de los factores grupo vs. momento en los puntajes de las habilidades de automotivación (p=0,005), sociabilidad (p<0,001), autocontrol (p=0,013) y total (p=0,002) de inteligencia emocional; de las facetas observar (p=0,042), describir (p=0,008), no juzgar (p<0,001), actuar con conciencia (p=0,004) y total (p<0,001) de mindfulness. Postest: hubo un aumento estadísticamente significativo de las habilidades de sociabilidad (p=0,009) y autocontrol (p=0,015) de inteligencia emocional; de las facetas no juzgar (p=0,022) y total (p=0,002) de mindfulness . Seguimiento: se observó un aumento significativo en las facetas no juzgar (p=0,024) y total (p=0,026) de mindfulness . La variable resiliencia no presentó significación estadística en el factor grupo vs. momento en el postest y seguimiento. Conclusión: la intervención basada en mindfulness utilizada demostró ser eficaz para aumentar la inteligencia emocional y las habilidades de mindfulness disposicional de los enfermeros líderes. Registro Brasileño de Ensayos Clínicos (RBR-3c62gy), registrado el 4 de marzo de 2020, actualizado el 16 de septiembre de 2022.

Objetivo: analisar os efeitos de uma intervenção baseada em mindfulness na inteligência emocional e resiliência de enfermeiros líderes. Método: estudo-piloto de ensaio clínico randomizado cruzado. Amostra (n=32) randomizada em grupo A (n=18) e grupo B (n=14), avaliados nos momentos pré-teste, pós-teste e seguimento. Os desfechos foram avaliados pela Medida de Inteligência Emocional, pelo Questionário de Resiliência Connor-Davidson e pelo Questionário das Cinco Facetas de Mindfulness , e analisados pelo Generalized Linear Mixed Model . Resultados: foram avaliadas 32 enfermeiras com idade média de 42,6 anos. As análises mostraram interações significativas dos efeitos dos fatores Grupo x Momento nos escores das habilidades de automotivação (p=0,005), sociabilidade (p<0,001), autocontrole (p=0,013) e total (p=0,002) de inteligência emocional; das facetas observar (p=0,042), descrever (p=0,008), não julgar (p<0,001), agir com consciência (p=0,004) e total (p<0,001) de mindfulness . Pós-teste: houve aumento estatisticamente significante das habilidades de sociabilidade (p=0,009) e autocontrole (p=0,015) de inteligência emocional; das facetas não julgar (p=0,022) e total (p=0,002) de mindfulness . Seguimento: observou-se aumento significativo das facetas não julgar (p=0,024) e total (p=0,026) de mindfulness . A variável resiliência não apresentou significância estatística no fator Grupo x Momento, no pós-teste e seguimento. Conclusão: a intervenção baseada em mindfulness utilizada mostrou-se efetiva no aumento das habilidades de inteligência emocional e mindfulness disposicional de enfermeiros líderes. Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (RBR-3c62gy), registrado em 04 de março de 2020, atualizado em 16 de setembro de 2022.

Reuse of lime sludge from immediate one-step lime precipitation process as a coagulant (aid) in slaughterhouse wastewater treatment.

The circularity of wastewater treatment subproducts is on the worldwide agenda. In this way, this work aims to evaluate alternatives for the reuse of sludge from slaughterhouse wastewater treatment. Wetted sludges produced in the immediate one-step lime precipitation process were applied directly or first calcined, as a coagulant or coagulant aid, in the absence or presence of Ca(OH)2, to slaughterhouse wastewaters with different characteristics. For the best sludge reuse, successive reuses of the sludge were carried out and the characteristics of treated slaughterhouse wastewater were evaluated after each reuse. Results showed a great similarity between slaughterhouse and treated slaughterhouse wastewaters using wetted and calcined sludges as a coagulant for highly contaminated slaughterhouse wastewater. In addition, a great similarity was also observed between the calcined and the wetted sludges, both as a coagulant aid, for all the slaughterhouse wastewaters tested. However, the latter consumed more hydrated lime, more volume of sludge sedimented, and higher concentrations phosphorus and organic matter in the treated wastewater. Calcined sludge as a coagulant aid guaranteed the best slaughterhouse wastewater quality for almost of the tested paramenters (≥94% for absorbances at 254 nm and 410 nm, E. coli, turbidity, and phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand between 3 and 91%, and total Kjeldahl nitrogen between 3 and 62%) independently of the wastewater characteristics. Calcined sludge as a coagulant aid can be three times reused for the tested parameters and slaughterhouse wastewater characteristics without significantly decreasing the quality. The successive sludge reused saves the hydrated lime dose applied (up to 28.4%) and the sedimented sludge volume (up to 24.7%), and can be a solution to stabilize sludge due to the pH increase (sludge pH = 12).

Medical Grade Honey as a Promising Treatment to Improve Ovarian Tissue Transplantation.

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is a female fertility preservation technique that presents major challenges for the maintenance of follicular viability after transplantation. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the application of L-Mesitran Soft®, a product containing 40% medical grade honey (MGH), with other strategies to improve ovarian grafts' viability. For this purpose, bovine ovarian tissue was vitrified, warmed and randomly assigned to culture groups: (1) control, (2) MGH 0.2% in vitro, (3) MGH in vivo (direct application in the xenotransplantation), (4) vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF 50 ng/mL) and (5) vitamin D (100 Nm), during a 48 h period. A sixth group (6) of fragments was thawed on transplantation day and was not cultured. The tissue was xenotransplanted into immunodeficient (Rowett nude homozygous) ovariectomized rats. Grafts were analyzed 48 h after culture, and 7 and 28 days after transplantation. The tissue was subjected to histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Treatments using MGH showed the highest angiogenic and cell proliferation stimulation, with cellular apoptosis, within a healthy cellular turnover pathway. In conclusion, MGH should be considered as a potentially effective and less expensive strategy to improve ovarian tissue transplantation.

Actualización de los tratamientos para el cólico del lactante

RESUMEN Introducción: El cólico del lactante es un cuadro caracterizado por llanto repetitivo y continuado con dificultad para calmarse. Su origen no está definido, lo cual obstaculiza la existencia de un tratamiento de éxito. Objetivo: Analizar las evidencias científicas más actuales acerca de los tratamientos existentes y susceptibles de usar en el cólico del lactante. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de datos Cinhal, Medline y Scopus utilizando los descriptores, "Infant", "Colic", "Therapeutics" y la palabra clave "Treatment". Se obtuvieron 97 resultados totales, de los cuales resultaron ser válidos 15. Análisis e integración de la información: La finalidad común de los trabajos analizados es la disminución de la sintomatología del cólico del lactante, centrándose en la disminución del llanto, con tratamientos que van desde la administración de dosis orales de probióticos, hierbas medicinales y homeopatía, hasta el tratamiento con estímulos físicos como la terapia cráneo-sacra, la acupuntura, el masaje o la reflexología. Conclusiones: Existen múltiples tratamientos para el cólico del lactante, pero no se puede afirmar que uno sea más eficaz que los demás.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Infant colic is a condition characterized by repetitive and continuous crying with difficulty calming down. Its origin is not defined, which hinders the existence of a successful treatment. Objective: To analyze the most current scientific evidence on the existing treatments that can be used in infant colic. Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out in Cinhal, Medline and Scopus databases using the descriptors, "Infant", "Colic", "Therapeutics" and the keyword "Treatment". Ninety-seven total results were obtained, 15 of them were valid. Analysis and integration of information: The common purpose of the studies analyzed is to reduce the symptoms of colic in infants, focusing on reducing crying, treatments ranged from the administration of oral doses of probiotics, medicinal herbs and homeopathy, to treatment with physical stimuli such as cranio-sacral therapy, acupuncture, massage or reflexology. Conclusions: There are multiple treatments for infant colic but it cannot be said that one is more effective than the others.

Itinerário terapêutico de pacientes com deficiência auditiva / Therapeutic itinerary of hearing impaired patients / Itinerario terapéutico de pacientes con discapacidad auditiva

Introdução: As ações do serviço de saúde auditiva são executadas pela atenção básica, média e alta complexidade de maneira hierarquizada, organizada para facilitar o diagnóstico, recuperação e reabilitação. Conhecer o itinerário percorrido pelo usuário pode influenciar a solução adotada e identificar dificuldades ao diagnóstico precoce. Objetivo: Analisar o itinerário terapêutico e perfil dos pacientes diagnosticados com deficiência auditiva de um serviço de Saúde Auditiva Microrregional de Minas Gerais. Método: Análise descritiva retrospectiva dos dados de prontuários do serviço auditivo de Sete Lagoas, de 189 sujeitos que receberam aparelho auditivo pelo Serviço Único de Saúde entre os anos de 2018/2019 no serviço de referência em Média Complexidade da Microrregião. Observa-se maior número de usuários com idade superior a 60 anos em Sete Lagoas e também na microrregião. A classificação quanto a sexo demonstra predomínio de mulheres em toda área de atendimento, e, principalmente, no município de Sete Lagoas. Resultados: A análise do itinerário mostra que o tempo entre a chegada ao serviço de saúde auditiva e as etapas de pré molde, teste e entrega do aparelho auditivo é menor para crianças do que para adultos e idosos. Conclusão: O itinerário percorrido pelos pacientes interfere em maior aproveitamento do aparelho auditivo e adaptação adequada devido ao tempo de espera e distância percorridos. Adultos e idosos têm maior itinerário em relação às crianças.

Introduction: The actions of the hearing health service are performed by basic, middle and high complexity care in a hierarchical manner, organized to facilitate diagnosis, recovery and rehabilitation. Knowing the route taken by the user can influence the solution adopted and identify difficulties to early diagnosis. Objective: To analyze the profile and therapeutic itinerary of patients diagnosed with hearing impairment in a Microregional Hearing Health Service in Minas Gerais. Method: Retrospective descriptive analysis of the medical records data from the hearing service Sete Lagoas, of 189 subjects who received hearing aids by the Unified Health Service between the years 2018/2019 at the reference service on Medium Complexity in the Microregion. There are a greater number of users over the age of 60 in Sete Lagoas and also in the micro-region. The classification as to sex shows a predominance of women in the entire service area and mainly in the city of Sete Lagoas. Results: The analysis of the itinerary shows that the time between arrival at the hearing health service and the stages of pre-mold, test and delivery of the hearing aid is shorter for children than for adults and the elderly. A higher number of users over 60 years of age is observed in Sete Lagoas and also in the microregion. Conclusion: The route taken by the patients interferes with the use of the hearing aid and a proper adaptation due to the waiting time and distance covered. Adults and elderly have a longer itinerary in relation to children.

Introducción: Las acciones del servicio de salud auditiva son realizadas por atención primaria, media y alta complejidad de manera jerárquica, organizadas para facilitar el diagnóstico, la recuperación y la rehabilitación. Conocer la ruta tomada por el usuario puede influir en la solución adoptada y identificar dificultades en el diagnóstico temprano.  Objetivo: analizar el perfil y el itinerário y perfil terapéutico de pacientes diagnosticados con discapacidad auditiva en un servicio de salud auditiva microrregional en Minas Gerais.  Método: Análisis descriptivo retrospectivo de los datos de las historias clínicas del servicio de audición en Sete Lagoas, de 189 sujetos que recibieron audífonos por parte del Servicio Unificado de Salud entre los años 2018/2019 en el servicio de referencia de Complejidad Media en la Microrregión. Hay un mayor número de usuarios mayores de 60 años en Sete Lagoas y también en la microrregión. La clasificación por sexo muestra un predominio de mujeres en toda el área de servicio y principalmente en la ciudad de Sete Lagoas. Resultados: El análisis del itinerario muestra que el tiempo entre la llegada al servicio de salud auditiva y las etapas de premoldeo, prueba y entrega del audífono es más corto para niños que para adultos y ancianos. Se observa un mayor número de usuarios mayores de 60 años en Sete Lagoas y también en la microrregión. Conclusión: el itinerario recorrido por los pacientes interfiere con un mayor uso del audífono y una adaptación adecuada debido al tiempo de espera y la distancia recorrida.  Los adultos y los ancianos tienen un itinerario mayor que los niños.

Does supplementation with mitochondria improve oocyte competence? A systematic review.

Mitochondrial supplementation was proposed as a complementary treatment to assisted reproductive technologies to improve oocyte competence and support post-fertilization development. This strategy is based on the fact that poor-quality/aged oocytes contain lower and dysfunctional mitochondria. However, the efficacy and safety of mitochondrial supplementation are still controversial. Therefore, this review summarizes the clinical/biological outcomes of mitochondrial supplementation, aiming to improve oocyte competence or explore the safety of this technique, and was based on an online search using PubMed and Web of Science, until September 2019. The studies included reported outcomes related to the efficacy and safety of mitochondrial supplementation either in human or animal models (bovine, porcine and mouse). Extracted data were organized according to study objective, the mitochondrial source and the main outcomes: fertilization/pregnancy rates, embryo development and adverse outcomes. Clinical pregnancy was not improved in the only randomized controlled trial published, although an increase was demonstrated in other non-randomized studies. Fertilization rate and embryo development were not different from control groups in the majority of studies, although performed in different contexts and using diverse sources of mitochondria. The safety of mitochondria transfer is still a concern, however, the euploid rate and the absence of reported congenital malformation from the clinical studies are reassuring. In summary, mitochondrial supplementation does not seem to cause harm although the benefit of improving oocyte competence is still unclear due to the diversity of methodological approaches and low-quality of the data available. Analyzed data support the need to investigate further, in both pre-clinical and clinical contexts.

Major factors influencing the quantification of Nile Red stained microplastics and improved automatic quantification (MP-VAT 2.0).

Automated count of Nile Red fluorescent microplastics allows fast and reliable quantification. However, factors involving staining, digital camera conditions and settings introduce variability to the results. The objective of this paper is to identify and propose solutions to these factors and improve on the previous MP-VAT script. While removal of digital sensor defects had little influence on results and staining can be reduced to 5 min, Nile Red concentrations cannot be reduced <0.01 mg mL-1, the 470 nm LED lantern emission must be >1600 lx, and photographic conditions should be maintained as stable as possible ideally improving the filter membrane area and using the recommended settings of 2 s, ISO100, F5.6. It was also found that Nile Red can be removed from microplastics using acetone or hydrogen peroxide with iron. More importantly, both particles and fluorescent are lost with time and thus quantification should be conducted within a week. Finally, MP-VAT 2.0 was developed to remove unselected areas and to identify only red particles, excluding white reflections from quantification. This updated version of MP-VAT produced improved recovery rates of 98.2 ± 6.9 for spiked samples and 95.9 ± 10.3 on actual environmental samples, presenting a cheap and reliable complementary method for microplastic identification.

Impact of oral amoxicillin and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid treatment on bacterial diversity and ß-lactam resistance in the canine faecal microbiota.

BACKGROUND: Aminopenicillins with or without a ß-lactamase inhibitor are widely used in both human and veterinary medicine. However, little is known about their differential impact on the gut microbiota and development of antimicrobial resistance. OBJECTIVES: To investigate changes in the faecal microbiota of dogs treated with amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. METHODS: Faeces collected from 42 dogs (21 per treatment group) immediately before, during and 1 week after termination of oral treatment with amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanic acid were analysed by culture and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. RESULTS: In both groups, bacterial counts on ampicillin selective agar revealed an increase in the proportion of ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli during treatment, and an increased occurrence and proportion of ampicillin-resistant enterococci during and after treatment. 16S rRNA gene analysis showed reductions in microbial richness and diversity during treatment followed by a return to pre-treatment conditions approximately 1 week after cessation of amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanic acid treatment. While no significant differences were observed between the effects of amoxicillin and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid on microbial richness and diversity, treatment with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid reduced the abundance of taxa that are considered part of the beneficial microbiota (such as Roseburia, Dialister and Lachnospiraceae) and enriched Escherichia, although the latter result was not corroborated by phenotypic counts. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest a limited effect of clavulanic acid on selection of antimicrobial resistance and microbial richness when administered orally in combination with amoxicillin. However, combination with this ß-lactamase inhibitor appears to broaden the spectrum of amoxicillin, with potential negative consequences on gut health.

Sargassum muticum and Osmundea pinnatifida Enzymatic Extracts: Chemical, Structural, and Cytotoxic Characterization.

Seaweeds, which have been widely used for human consumption, are considered a potential source of biological compounds, where enzyme-assisted extraction can be an efficient method to obtain multifunctional extracts. Chemical characterization of Sargassum muticum and Osmundea pinnatifida extracts obtained by Alcalase and Viscozyme assisted extraction, respectively, showed an increment of macro/micro elements in comparison to the corresponding dry seaweeds, while the ratio of Na/K decreased in both extracts. Galactose, mannose, xylose, fucose, and glucuronic acid were the main monosaccharides (3.2-27.3 mg/glyophilized extract) present in variable molar ratios, whereas low free amino acids content and diversity (1.4-2.7 g/100gprotein) characterized both extracts. FTIR-ATR and 1H NMR spectra confirmed the presence of important polysaccharide structures in the extracts, namely fucoidans from S. muticum or agarans as sulfated polysaccharides from O. pinnatifida. No cytotoxicity against normal mammalian cells was observed from 0 to 4 mglyophilized extract/mL for both extracts. The comprehensive characterization of the composition and safety of these two extracts fulfils an important step towards their authorized application for nutritional and/or nutraceutical purposes.

Protein profile of mouse ovarian follicles grown in vitro.

STUDY QUESTION: Could the follicle proteome be mapped by identifying specific proteins that are common or differ between three developmental stages from the secondary follicle (SF) to the antrum-like stage? SUMMARY ANSWER: From a total of 1401 proteins identified in the follicles, 609 were common to the three developmental stages investigated and 444 were found uniquely at one of the stages. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: The importance of the follicle as a functional structure has been recognized; however, up-to-date the proteome of the whole follicle has not been described. A few studies using proteomics have previously reported on either isolated fully-grown oocytes before or after meiosis resumption or cumulus cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: The experimental design included a validated mice model for isolation and individual culture of SFs. The system was chosen as it allows continuous evaluation of follicle growth and selection of follicles for analysis at pre-determined developmental stages: SF, complete Slavjanski membrane rupture (SMR) and antrum-like cavity (AF). The experiments were repeated 13 times independently to acquire the material that was analyzed by proteomics. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: SFs (n = 2166) were isolated from B6CBA/F1 female mice (n = 42), 12 days old, from 15 l. About half of the follicles isolated as SF were analyzed as such (n = 1143) and pooled to obtain 139 µg of extracted protein. Both SMR (n = 359) and AF (n = 124) were obtained after individual culture of 1023 follicles in a microdrop system under oil, selected for analysis and pooled, to obtain 339 µg and 170 µg of protein, respectively. The follicle proteome was analyzed combining isoelectric focusing (IEF) fractionation with 1D and 2D LC-MS/MS analysis to enhance protein identification. The three protein lists were submitted to the 'Compare gene list' tool in the PANTHER website to gain insights on the Gene Ontology Biological processes present and to Ingenuity Pathway Analysis to highlight protein networks. A label-free quantification was performed with 1D LC-MS/MS analyses to emphasize proteins with different expression profiles between the three follicular stages. Supplementary western blot analysis (using new biological replicates) was performed to confirm the expression variations of three proteins during follicle development in vitro. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: It was found that 609 out of 1401 identified proteins were common to the three follicle developmental stages investigated. Some proteins were identified uniquely at one stage: 71 of the 775 identified proteins in SF, 181 of 1092 in SMR and 192 of 1100 in AF. Additional qualitative and quantitative analysis highlighted 44 biological processes over-represented in our samples compared to the Mus musculus gene database. In particular, it was possible to identify proteins implicated in the cell cycle, calcium ion binding and glycolysis, with specific expressions and abundance, throughout in vitro follicle development. LARGE SCALE DATA: Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD006227. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The proteome analyses described in this study were performed after in vitro development. Despite fractionation of the samples before LC-MS/MS, proteomic approaches are not exhaustive, thus proteins that are not identified in a group are not necessarily absent from that group, although they are likely to be less abundant. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: This study allowed a general view of proteins implicated in follicle development in vitro and it represents the most complete catalog of the whole follicle proteome available so far. Not only were well known proteins of the oocyte identified but also proteins that are probably expressed only in granulosa cells. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This study was supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, FCT (PhD fellowship SFRH/BD/65299/2009 to A.A.), the Swedish Childhood Cancer Foundation (PR 2014-0144 to K.A.R-.W.) and Stockholm County Council to K.A.R-.W. The authors of the study have no conflict of interest to report.

Positive Effects of a Stress Reduction Program Based on Mindfulness Meditation in Brazilian Nursing Professionals: Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation.

CONTEXT: Mindfulness meditation has been shown to effectively mitigate the negative effects of stress among nursing professionals, but in countries like Brazil, these practices are relatively unexplored. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a Stress Reduction Program (SRP) including mindfulness and loving kindness meditation among nursing professionals working in a Brazilian hospital setting. DESIGN: Pilot study with a mixed model using quantitative and qualitative methods was used to evaluate a group of participants. The quantitative data were analyzed at three different time points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and follow-up. The qualitative data were analyzed at post-intervention. SETTING: Hospital São Paulo (Brazil). PARTICIPANTS: Sample 13 nursing professionals, including nurses, technicians, and nursing assistants working in a hospital. INTERVENTION: Participants underwent mindfulness and loving kindness meditation during a period of six weeks. INSTRUMENTS: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), WHOQOL-BREF quality of life assessment, and Work Stress Scale (WSS). Qualitative data were collected via a group interview following six weeks participation in the SRP. RESULTS: The quantitative analyses revealed a significant reduction (P < .05) between pre-intervention and post-intervention scores for perceived stress, burnout, depression, and anxiety (trait). These variables showed no significant differences between post-intervention and follow-up scores. The WHOQOL-BREF revealed significant increase (P < .05) just in the physical and psychological domains at post-intervention scores, which remained at the follow-up. Qualitative results showed improvement in the reactivity to inner experience; a more attentive perception of internal and external experiences; greater attention and awareness of actions and attitudes at every moment; and a positive influence of the SRP in nursing activities.

Impact of enzyme- and ultrasound-assisted extraction methods on biological properties of red, brown, and green seaweeds from the central west coast of Portugal.

Seaweeds are an excellent source of bioactive compounds, and therefore the use of sustainable and food compatible extraction methods such as enzyme-assisted (EAE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction were applied on Sargassum muticum, Osmundea pinnatifida, and Codium tomentosum. Extracts were evaluated for proximate characterization and biological properties. Higher extraction yields were observed for C. tomentosum EAE (48-62%; p < 0.05 for Cellulase and Viscozyme), followed by O. pinnatifida (49-55%; p < 0.05 except Alcalase) and S. muticum (26-31%; p < 0.05). S. muticum extracts presented the highest nitrogen (25 ± 2 mg/glyoph extract) and total phenolics (261 ± 37 µgcatechol equiv/glyoph extract) contents, whereas higher sugars (78 ± 14 mgglucose equiv/glyoph extract) including sulfated polysaccharide (44 ± 8 mgNa2SO4 acid/glyoph extract) contents characterized O. pinnatifida extracts. A higher effect on hydroxyl-radical scavenging activity (35-50%) was observed for all extracts, whereas S. muticum Alcalase and C. tomentosum Cellulase extracts exhibited higher prebiotic activity than fructooligosaccharides. O. pinnatifida and C. tomentosum EAE showed inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase (38-49%).

Sewage sludge, compost and other representative organic wastes as agricultural soil amendments: Benefits versus limiting factors.

Nine different samples of sewage sludges, composts and other representative organic wastes, with potential interest to be used as agricultural soil amendments, were characterized: municipal sewage sludge (SS1 and SS2), agro industrial sludge (AIS), municipal slaughterhouse sludge (MSS), mixed municipal solid waste compost (MMSWC), agricultural wastes compost (AWC), compost produced from agricultural wastes and sewage sludge (AWSSC), pig slurry digestate (PSD) and paper mill wastes (PMW). The characterization was made considering their: (i) physicochemical parameters, (ii) total and bioavailable heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn and Hg), (iii) organic contaminants, (iv) pathogenic microorganisms and (v) stability and phytotoxicity indicators. All the sludges, municipal or other, comply with the requirements of the legislation regarding the possibility of their application to agricultural soil (with the exception of SS2, due to its pathogenic microorganisms content), with a content of organic matter and nutrients that make them interesting to be applied to soil. The composts presented, in general, some constraints regarding their application to soil, and their impairment was due to the existence of heavy metal concentrations exceeding the proposed limit of the draft European legislation. As a consequence, with the exception of AWSSC, most compost samples were not able to meet these quality criteria, which are more conservative for compost than for sewage sludge. From the results, the composting of sewage sludge is recommended as a way to turn a less stabilized waste into a material that is no longer classified as a waste and, judging by the results of this work, with lower heavy metal content than the other composted materials, and without sanitation problems.

Type III interferon protects swine against foot-and-mouth disease.

In recent years, we have developed novel strategies to control foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), including the use of biotherapeutics such as interferons (IFN) delivered by a replication-defective human adenovirus type 5 (Ad5). Swine can be sterilely protected after vaccination with an Ad5 that encodes porcine type I IFN (poIFN-α), and cattle can be similarly protected or develop significantly reduced disease when treated with an Ad5 delivering bovine type III IFN (boIFN-λ3). Here, we have evaluated the efficacy of porcine IFN-λ3 (poIFN-λ3) against FMD virus in vivo. Swine inoculated with different doses of Ad5-poIFN-λ3 were protected against disease in a dose-dependent manner. Despite the absence of systemic antiviral activity, 7 out of 10 Ad5-poIFN-λ3 inoculated animals did not develop disease or viremia, and the other 3 inoculated animals displayed delayed and milder disease by 7 days postchallenge as compared with control animals inoculated with an Ad5 control vector. While analysis of gene expression showed significant induction of IFN and IFN-stimulated genes in Ad5-poIFN-λ3-treated cultured porcine epithelial kidney cells, there was limited gene induction in peripheral blood monocytes isolated from treated swine. These results suggest that treatment with Ad5-poIFN-λ3 is an effective biotherapeutic strategy against FMD in swine.

The impact of uranium mine contamination of soils on plant litter decomposition.

As part of a tier 3 risk assessment performed for a uranium mining area, the ability of soils with different degrees of metal contamination to degrade organic matter was assessed using litter bags filled with leaves of Quercus robur, Pinus pinaster, Salix atrocinerea, or a mixture of the three species. Litter bags were exposed at different sites within the mine area and at a reference area for 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Biomass loss, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), carbon (C) and total fatty acid, total phenolic, and ergosterol contents were assessed for each litter bag retrieved from the field. The decomposition of litter at each site seemed to be governed by a complex interaction of many different factors. After 12 months of exposure, leaves from the most contaminated sites were distinguishable from those from the reference site. In the reference site, the greatest percentages of biomass loss were attained by Q. robur and P. pinaster leaves. These species displayed the second highest and the lowest C-to-N ratios, respectively. In addition, the high P content of the litter from these two species may have favored microbial colonization. The results suggest that the decomposition of P. pinaster and Q. robur leaves may have been favored at the reference site by the high abundance of both species at this site and the subsequent adaptation of the microbial community to their litter. Our study shows that different species of leaf litter should be used to discriminate between contaminated sites with different levels of contamination.

Removal of the organic content from a bleached kraft pulp mill effluent by a treatment with silica-alginate-fungi biocomposites.

This study attempts a treatment strategy of a bleached kraft pulp mill effluent with Rhizopus oryzae or Pleurotus sajor caju encapsulated on silica-alginate (biocomposite of silica-alginate-fungi, with the purpose of reducing its potential impact in the environment. Active (alive) or inactive (death by sterilization) Rhizopus oryzae or Pleurotus sajor caju was encapsulated in alginate beads. Five beads containing active and inactive fungus were placed in a mold and filled with silica hydrogel (biocomposites). The biocomposites were added to batch reactors containing the bleached kraft pulp mill effluent. The treatment of bleached kraft pulp mill effluent by active and inactive biocomposites was performed throughout 29 days at 28°C. The efficiency of treatment was evaluated by measuring the removal of organic compounds, chemical oxygen demand and the relative absorbance ratio over time. Both fungi species showed potential for removal of organic compounds, colour and chemical oxygen demand. Maximum values of reduction in terms of colour (56%), chemical oxygen demand (65%) and organic compounds (72-79%) were attained after 29 days of treatment of bleached kraft pulp mill effluent by active Rhizopus oryzae biocomposites. The immobilization of fungi, the need for low fungal biomass, and the possibility of reutlization of the biocomposites clearly demonstrate the industrial and environmental interest in bleached kraft pulp mill effluent treatment by silica-alginate-fungi biocomposites.

Novel antiviral therapeutics to control foot-and-mouth disease.

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) causes a highly contagious disease of cloven-hoofed animals. Vaccines require ∼7 days to induce protection; thus, before this time, vaccinated animals are still susceptible to the disease. Our group has previously shown that swine inoculated with 1×10(11) focus forming units (FFU) of a replication-defective human adenovirus containing the gene for porcine interferon alpha (Adt-pIFN-α) are sterilely protected from FMDV serotypes A24, O1 Manisa, or Asia 1 when the animals are challenged 1 day postadministration, and protection can last for 3-5 days. Polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid stabilized with poly-l-lysine and carboxymethyl cellulose (poly ICLC) is a synthetic double-stranded RNA that is a viral mimic and activates multiple innate immune pathways through interaction with toll-like receptor 3 and MDA-5. It is a potent inducer of IFNs. In this study, we initially examined the effect of poly IC and IFN-α on FMDV replication and gene induction in cell culture. Poly ICLC alone or combined with Adt-pIFN-α was then evaluated for its therapeutic efficacy in swine against intradermal challenge with FMDV A24, 1 day post-treatment. Groups of swine were subcutaneously inoculated either with poly ICLC alone (4 or 8 mg) or in combination with different doses of Adt-pIFN-α (2.5×10(9), 1×10(9), or 2.5×10(8) FFU). While different degrees of protection were achieved in all the treated animals, a dose of 8 mg of poly ICLC alone or combined with 1×10(9) FFU of Adt-pIFN-α was sufficient to sterilely protect swine when challenged 24 h later with FMDV A24. IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells at 1 day post-treatment was broader and higher in protected animals than in nonprotected animals. These data indicate that poly ICLC is a potent stimulator of IFN and ISGs in swine and at an adequate dose is sufficient to induce complete protection against FMD.

Contribuição da meditação para a saúde mental dos usuários de serviços públicos de São Paulo / Contribution of meditation to the mental health of public service users in São Paulo

Introdução: A carga dos transtornos mentais corresponde a uma parcela muito significativa (10%) da carga global das doenças, e vem crescendo principalmente nos países de baixa e média renda, sendo que essa carga é ainda maior do que a anemia e as doenças infecciosas (Global Burden of Diseases-Banco Mundial/OMS/Un.Harvard). Um inquérito de saúde que avaliou o estado mental de idosos na cidade de São Paulo, registrou uma prevalência de 18,1% de sintomas depressivos, a mais alta a prevalência observada entre as pessoas com 60 a 64 anos de idade (19,5%). São cada vez mais significativos os dados na literatura científica sobre os possíveis efeitos da meditação em processos cognitivos e afetivos. Objetivos: Mapear o perfil da população dos serviços de saúde pública da Região Centro-Oeste (CRS CO) da cidade de São Paulo que utilizam a prática de meditação, e os possíveis benefícios desta prática para a saúde mental destes indivíduos. Métodos: Foram selecionados randomicamente 75 usuários de prática de meditação dos diversos serviços de saúde pública da CRS CO da cidade de São Paulo. A análise estatística foi realizada através dos programas Epi-Info e SPSS. Resultados: 94.1% da população da amostra é do sexo feminino, com idade entre 61 e 80 anos, 64.7% são católicos, e 73.5% tem renda familiar entre 1/2 a 5 salários mínimos. Dentre os problemas emocionais referidos pelos usuários após a prática de meditação, foi referida melhora por 81.8% dos entrevistados em relação à ansiedade, 81% quanto a tristeza/depressão, 77.8% quanto a angústia, 75% quanto a preocupação excessiva, 75% quanto ao desânimo e 66.7% quanto a apatia. Conclusão: Os resultados sugerem que a prática da meditação pode contribuir para melhorar a saúde mental referida pelos usuários dos serviços de saúde pública da cidade de São Paulo.

A qualidade de vida dos usuários da Coordenadoria Regional de Saúde Centro-Oeste que praticam meditação / The quality of life of users of the Midwest Regional Health Coordinator who practice meditation

Introdução: Uma das práticas encontradas no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), através do programa de Implantação e implementação das ações e serviços relativos às praticas complementares e integrativas em saúde é a meditação. A meditação é uma prática que melhorara o bem estar mental e físico, sendo conhecida como uma forma de reduzir o estresse. Objetivo: caracterizar a qualidade de vida dos usuários praticantes de meditação na Coordenadoria Regional de Saúde Centro-Oeste. Métodos: Foi aplicado um questionário composto por 26 questões, o WHOQOL-Bref (inventário de qualidade de vida da Organização Mundial da Saúde) em 70 usuários, e foi realizada a estatística descritiva no programa SPSS 17.0. Resultados: 56,3 % dos entrevistados são idosos; 74,7% possuem renda familiar de até 5 salários mínimos. 71,9% dos usuários praticantes de meditação relataram uma qualidade de vida boa e muito boa; 60,5% estão satisfeitos ou muito satisfeitos com sua saúde; 69,1% percebem bastante ou extremo sentido na vida. Conclusão: praticantes de meditação relatam uma percepção positiva quanto a maioria dos fatores que influenciam a qualidade de vida, apesar da baixa renda familiar da maioria dos entrevistados.