Determination of Selected Metals and Metalloids in Different Types of Rice by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES).

Pantanal is a unique biome located in Brazil, with diverse fauna and flora, being home to native species such as the rice types Oryza latifolia and Oryza rufipogon. Rice is a staple food for two-thirds of the population, with increasing consumption, especially in Asia, regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, countries in the Caribbean, and Latin America. The per capita rice consumption had an average consumption of 160 g/day. However, rice consumption may lead to the intake of other harmful substances to health, such as toxic metals/metalloids. The determination of potential hazards in native species is crucial in maintaining the local population in good health. In this study, we determined the concentration of essential elements and potentially toxic elements in seven different types of Brazilian rice grains, including the two Pantanal native species O. latifolia and O. rufipogon, using ICP-OES to identify their nutritional richness or potential toxicity. The contaminant with the highest HQ levels was chromium, with an HQ above one only in the native species. All species (commercial and native) showed carcinogenic risk considering inorganic arsenic. Rice exhibits duality in its classification, providing nutritional content and leading people to potential risks of overexposure to toxic elements. While rice can be part of a healthy and nutritious diet, more studies should be conducted on avoiding or remedying contamination with toxic elements.

A Thermoresponsive injectable drug delivery system of chitosan/ß-glycerophosphate with gellan gum/alginate microparticles.

The development of new Drug Delivery Systems (DDS) by incorporating microparticles within hydrogels can prolong the release rate of drugs and/or other bioactive agents. In this study, we combined gellan gum/alginate microparticles within a thermoresponsive chitosan (Ch) hydrogel with ß-Glycerophosphate (ß-GP), designing the system to be in the sol state at 21 °C and in the gel state at 37 °C to enable the injectability of the system. The system was in the sol state between 10 °C and 21 °C. Higher concentrations of ß-GP (0, 2, 3, 4, 5 w/v%) and microparticles (0, 2 and 5 w/v%) allowed a faster sol-gel transition with higher mechanical strength at 37 °C. However, the sol-gel transition was not instantaneous. The release profile of methylene blue (MB) from the microparticles was significantly affected by their incorporation in Ch/ß-GP hydrogels, only allowing the release of 60-70 % of MB for 6 days, while the microparticles alone released all the MB in 48 h. The proposed system did not present cytotoxicity to VERO cell lines as a preliminary assay, with the Ch/ß-GP/GG:Alg having >90 % of cellular viability. The proposed Ch/ß-GP system proved to have a delaying effect on drug release and biocompatible properties, being a promising future DDS.

[Screen time, obesity and cardiovascular disease among elderly Brazilians: 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys]. / Tempo de televisão, obesidade e doenças cardiovasculares em idosos brasileiros: Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019.

The scope of this paper was to analyze the association between the time spent watching television (TV) and the presence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) obesity and obesity associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among elderly Brazilians, according to gender, comparing data from the 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys (NHS). It involved a cross-sectional study, with data from 23,815 and 43,554 elderly people, respectively, from the 2013 and 2019 NHS. Self-reported TV screen time was categorized into: <3, 3-6, and ≥6 per day. Obesity was assessed by body mass index ≥27 kg/m² and CVD by self-reported medical diagnosis. In 2013, elderly women who watched TV ≥6 hours/day were more likely to have OCD obesity (OR=1.87; 95%CI=1.32;2.64) and obesity associated with CVD (OR=6.30; 95%CI=3.38;11.74). In 2019, elderly women who watched TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.44; 95%CI=1.25;1.65) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=1.55; 95%CI=1.28;1.88) were more likely to have OCD obesity, while the incidence of obesity associated with CVD was higher for ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.48;3.06). In 2019, men were more likely to have obesity associated with CVD watching TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.76; 95%CI=1.20;2.56) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.27;3.57). The importance of reducing screen time by the elderly is clearly evident.

Objetivou-se analisar a associação entre tempo assistindo televisão (TV) e a presença de obesidade isolada e associada às doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) de idosos brasileiros, conforme o sexo, comparando-se os dados das Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019. Estudo transversal, com dados de 23.815 e 43.554 idosos das PNS 2013 e 2019, respectivamente. O autorrelato do tempo assistindo à TV foi categorizado em: <3, 3-6 e ≥6 horas diárias. A obesidade isolada foi avaliada pelo índice de massa corporal ≥27 kg/m² e a DCV pelo autorrelato de diagnóstico médico. Em 2013, as idosas que assistiam à TV ≥6 horas/dia apresentaram maiores chances de obesidade isolada (OR=1,87; IC95%=1,32;2,64) e associada à DCV (OR=6,30; IC95%=3,38;11,74). Em 2019, as idosas que assistiam à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,44; IC95%=1,25;1,65) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=1,55; IC95%=1,28;1,88) tiveram maiores chances de obesidade isolada, já as chances de obesidade associada à DCV, foram maiores para ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,48;3,06). Em 2019, os homens tiveram maiores chances de obesidade associada às DCV assistindo à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,76; IC95%=1,20;2,56) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,27;3,57). Evidencia-se a importância em diminuir o tempo assistindo à TV dos idosos.

Tempo de televisão, obesidade e doenças cardiovasculares em idosos brasileiros: Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019 / Screen time, obesity and cardiovascular disease among elderly Brazilians: 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys

Resumo Objetivou-se analisar a associação entre tempo assistindo televisão (TV) e a presença de obesidade isolada e associada às doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) de idosos brasileiros, conforme o sexo, comparando-se os dados das Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019. Estudo transversal, com dados de 23.815 e 43.554 idosos das PNS 2013 e 2019, respectivamente. O autorrelato do tempo assistindo à TV foi categorizado em: <3, 3-6 e ≥6 horas diárias. A obesidade isolada foi avaliada pelo índice de massa corporal ≥27 kg/m² e a DCV pelo autorrelato de diagnóstico médico. Em 2013, as idosas que assistiam à TV ≥6 horas/dia apresentaram maiores chances de obesidade isolada (OR=1,87; IC95%=1,32;2,64) e associada à DCV (OR=6,30; IC95%=3,38;11,74). Em 2019, as idosas que assistiam à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,44; IC95%=1,25;1,65) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=1,55; IC95%=1,28;1,88) tiveram maiores chances de obesidade isolada, já as chances de obesidade associada à DCV, foram maiores para ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,48;3,06). Em 2019, os homens tiveram maiores chances de obesidade associada às DCV assistindo à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,76; IC95%=1,20;2,56) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,27;3,57). Evidencia-se a importância em diminuir o tempo assistindo à TV dos idosos.

Abstract The scope of this paper was to analyze the association between the time spent watching television (TV) and the presence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) obesity and obesity associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among elderly Brazilians, according to gender, comparing data from the 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys (NHS). It involved a cross-sectional study, with data from 23,815 and 43,554 elderly people, respectively, from the 2013 and 2019 NHS. Self-reported TV screen time was categorized into: <3, 3-6, and ≥6 per day. Obesity was assessed by body mass index ≥27 kg/m² and CVD by self-reported medical diagnosis. In 2013, elderly women who watched TV ≥6 hours/day were more likely to have OCD obesity (OR=1.87; 95%CI=1.32;2.64) and obesity associated with CVD (OR=6.30; 95%CI=3.38;11.74). In 2019, elderly women who watched TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.44; 95%CI=1.25;1.65) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=1.55; 95%CI=1.28;1.88) were more likely to have OCD obesity, while the incidence of obesity associated with CVD was higher for ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.48;3.06). In 2019, men were more likely to have obesity associated with CVD watching TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.76; 95%CI=1.20;2.56) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.27;3.57). The importance of reducing screen time by the elderly is clearly evident.

Scalable Processing of Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC) Microfluidic Biochips.

Microfluidics evolved with the appearance of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), an elastomer with a short processing time and the possibility for replication on a micrometric scale. Despite the many advantages of PDMS, there are well-known drawbacks, such as the hydrophobic surface, the absorption of small molecules, the low stiffness, relatively high cost, and the difficulty of scaling up the fabrication process for industrial production, creating a need for alternative materials. One option is the use of stiffer thermoplastics, such as the cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), which can be mass produced, have lower cost and possess excellent properties. In this work, a method to fabricate COC microfluidic structures was developed. The work was divided into process optimization and evaluation of material properties for application in microfluidics. In the processing step, moulding, sealing, and liquid handling aspects were developed and optimized. The resulting COC devices were evaluated from the point of view of molecular diffusion, burst pressure, temperature resistance, and susceptibility to surface treatments and these results were compared to PDMS devices. Lastly, a target DNA hybridization assay was performed showing the potential of the COC-based microfluidic device to be used in biosensing and Lab-on-a-Chip applications.

Assessing the Genotoxicity of Cellulose Nanomaterials in a Co-Culture of Human Lung Epithelial Cells and Monocyte-Derived Macrophages.

Cellulose micro/nanomaterials (CMNMs) are innovative materials with a wide spectrum of industrial and biomedical applications. Although cellulose has been recognized as a safe material, the unique properties of its nanosized forms have raised concerns about their safety for human health. Genotoxicity is an endpoint that must be assessed to ensure that no carcinogenic risks are associated with exposure to nanomaterials. In this study, we evaluated the genotoxicity of two types of cellulose micro/nanofibrils (CMF and CNF) and one sample of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), obtained from industrial bleached Eucalyptus globulus kraft pulp. For that, we exposed co-cultures of human alveolar epithelial A549 cells and THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages to a concentration range of each CMNM and used the micronucleus (MN) and comet assays. Our results showed that only the lowest concentrations of the CMF sample were able to induce DNA strand breaks (FPG-comet assay). However, none of the three CMNMs produced significant chromosomal alterations (MN assay). These findings, together with results from previous in vitro studies using monocultures of A549 cells, indicate that the tested CNF and CNC are not genotoxic under the conditions tested, while the CMF display a low genotoxic potential.

Patient Undergoing Liver Transplantation: Challenges and Strategies in the Face of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to identify the challenges and strategies experienced by patients undergoing liver transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This was a descriptive study with a qualitative approach conducted in a large liver transplant hospital in southern Brazil. RESULTS: The participants included liver transplant patients between the years 2011 and 2022. Data collection was performed using a semi-structured interview. Data analysis comprised approximation of information and calculation of percentages. RESULTS: A total of 23 patients participated. Challenges identified included an increased dependence on others for daily activities, fear and stress due to the possibility of contamination, and the need for isolation from family and friends. Strategies included adaptation to the daily routine, reorganization of tasks inside and outside the home, formation of a support network, and reduced attendance to consultations and exams. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence of anguish and suffering of patients facing isolation and separation from family members was observed. Still, the study revealed the strength and determination of the patients to create strategies for preventing the SARS-CoV-2 virus and caring for themselves and their families. The study demonstrates the need for support from the health team in the face of such a scenario.

Bioactive coating of sodium alginate and agar added with essential oils of thyme (thymus vulgaris l.) and sweet orange (citrus aurantium var. dulcis) with antimicrobial properties applied over strawberries

Minimally processed strawberries have high acceptability but a short shelf life. The application of edible coatings with essential oils may be an alternative to preserve these fruits. Our objective was to develop, apply and characterize the effect of bioactive edible coatings based on agar or sodium alginate with thyme and/or sweet orange essential oils with antimicrobial properties, mainly against Listeria monocytogenes, for strawberries. The effect of the coatings on the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties that determine the shelf life of strawberries was verified at 1, 8, and 15 days. The effect against Listeria monocytogenes bacteria in strawberries artificially contaminated with this microorganism was also evaluated. Thyme and sweet orange essential oils had thymol and D-limonene, respectively, as main components. Alginate coating with sweet orange and thyme essential oil showed the best results. For Listeria monocytogenes, the coating applied after fruit contamination had an antimicrobial effect.

Las fresas mínimamente procesadas tienen una alta aceptación, pero una vida útil corta. La aplicación de recubrimientos comestibles con aceites esenciales puede ser una alternativa para conservar estos frutos. El objetivo fue desarrollar, aplicar y caracterizar el efecto del uso de recubrimientos comestibles bioactivos, a base de agar agar o alginato de sodio, adicionados con aceites esenciales de tomillo y/o naranja dulce, con propiedades antimicrobianas, principalmente anti-Listeria monocytogenes sobre la fresa. Se verificó el efecto de los recubrimientos sobre las características fisicoquímicas, microbiológicas y sensoriales que determinan la vida útil de las fresas a 1, 8 y 15 días. También se evaluó el efecto contra la bacteria Listeria monocytogenes en fresas contaminadas artificialmente con este microorganismo. Los aceites esenciales de tomillo y naranja dulce presentaron timol y D-limoneno como compuestos mayoritarios, respectivamente. El recubrimiento de alginato con aceite esencial de naranja dulce y tomillo mostró los mejores resultados. Para Listeria monocytogenes, el recubrimiento aplicado después de la contaminación de la fruta tuvo un efecto antimicrobiano.

Efeitos da estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua (ETCC) na voz e fala na doença de Parkinson: relato de caso / Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on voice and speech in Parkinson's disease: a case report

RESUMO Este estudo descreve os resultados de duas intervenções diferentes para a disartria na doença de Parkinson (DP). Trata-se de dois pacientes do sexo masculino com DP e disartria hipocinética que foram submetidos à avaliação fonoaudiológica. O primeiro (S1) recebeu dez sessões de 20 minutos de estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua (ETCC), enquanto o segundo (S2) recebeu dez sessões de 20 minutos de ETCC e terapia fonoaudiológica. Os pacientes foram reavaliados imediatamente após a intervenção e novamente após 30 dias. A melhora no tempo de fonação, movimento velar e outras medidas de disartria foram mais significativas no S1. De acordo com os parâmetros da análise acústica de fonte glótica, a melhora nas medidas de frequência e Jitter, Shimmer e ruído foi maior no S2 tanto na avaliação pós-intervenção imediata quanto na avaliação 30 dias pós-intervenção, seguida por S1 na avaliação pós-intervenção imediata. S1 apresentou melhores resultados na avaliação perceptivo-auditiva de fala e voz, enquanto S2 obteve melhores escores na análise acústica. Esses achados sugerem que a terapia fonoaudiológica convencional associada à ETCC tem um impacto mais significativo na fala e voz do que a ETCC isolada, demonstrando o potencial da ETCC como tratamento complementar para pacientes com DP.

ABSTRACT This study describes the results of two different interventions for dysarthria in Parkinson's disease (PD). It concerns two male patients with PD and hypokinetic dysarthria who underwent speech and voice assessment. The first (S1) received ten 20-minute sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), while the second (S2) received ten 20-minute sessions of tDCS as well as speech therapy. The patients were re-evaluated immediately after the intervention and again after 30 days. Improvements in phonation time, velar movement, and other measures of dysarthria were more significant in S1. According to the acoustic analysis source parameters, improvements in the frequency measurements and Jitter, Shimmer, and noise measurements were greater in S2 in both the immediate post-intervention and 30-day postintervention assessments, followed by S1 in the immediate post-intervention assessment. S1 showed better results in the auditory-perceptual evaluation of speech and voice, whereas S2 obtained better scores in acoustic analysis. These findings suggest that conventional speech therapy combined with tDCS has a more significant impact on speech and voice than tDCS alone, demonstrating the potential of tDCS as an adjuvant treatment for patients with PD.

Experience of patients undergoing liver transplantation during the covid-19 pandemic / Experiencia del patients sometido a trasplante hepático durante la pandemia de covid-19 / Vivência do paciente submetido ao transplante hepático durante a pandemia da covid-19

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the experience of patients undergoing liver transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: exploratory and qualitative research, developed in a reference hospital in liver transplantation, in the city of Florianópolis, Brazil. Participants were liver transplant patients between the years 2011 and 2021. Data collection conducted through a semi-structured script and data analysis performed according to content analysis. Results: from the participation of 23 patients, two categories of analysis emerged: "Perceptions about social isolation", with results related to coping and feelings related to social isolation; and "Actions and information: patients, support network and health services", revealing the meanings of strategies and changes developed in life activities of daily living as well as challenges faced with information and health services during the pandemic period. Conclusion: the study was able to understand liver transplant patients' experience in the face of the challenges they face during the pandemic. It allowed to visualize coping strategies, feelings and meanings based on recipients' perspective. As a contribution, it presents possibilities for achieving improvements in services and attention to weaknesses in health services, providing opportunities for reflections to improve this care and considering the specificities and complexities of the postoperative period of liver transplantation.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender la experiencia de los pacientes sometidos a trasplante hepático en la pandemia de COVID-19. Método: investigación exploratoria, con abordaje cualitativo, desarrollada en un hospital de referencia para trasplante hepático, en la ciudad de Florianópolis, Brasil. Los participantes fueron pacientes trasplantados de hígado entre los años 2011 y 2021. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de un guión semiestructurado y el análisis de datos se realizó de acuerdo con el análisis de contenido. Resultados: de la participación de 23 pacientes surgieron dos categorías de análisis: "Percepciones sobre el aislamiento social", con resultados relacionados al afrontamiento y sentimientos relacionados al aislamiento social; y "Acciones e información: paciente, red de apoyo y servicios de salud", revelando los significados de las estrategias y cambios desarrollados en las actividades de la vida diaria, así como los desafíos enfrentados con la información y los servicios de salud durante el período de la pandemia. Conclusión: el estudio logró comprender la experiencia de los pacientes trasplantados de hígado frente a los desafíos que enfrentan durante la pandemia. Permitido visualizar estrategias de afrontamiento, sentimientos y significados basados ​​en la propia perspectiva del receptor. Como aporte, presenta posibilidades para lograr mejoras en los servicios y atención a las debilidades de los servicios de salud, brindando espacios de reflexión para mejorar esa atención, considerando las especificidades y complejidades del postoperatorio del trasplante hepático.

RESUMO Objetivo: compreender a vivência do paciente submetido ao transplante hepático na pandemia da COVID-19. Método: pesquisa exploratória, de abordagem qualitativa desenvolvida em hospital de referência em transplante hepático, na cidade de Florianópolis, Brasil; os participantes foram pacientes transplantados hepáticos entre os anos de 2011 e 2021. Coleta de dados conduzida por meio de roteiro semiestruturado e análise dos dados realizada conforme análise de conteúdo. Resultados: da participação dos 23 pacientes, duas categorias de análise emergiram: "percepções acerca do isolamento social" com resultados relacionados aos enfrentamentos e sentimentos referentes ao isolamento social e "e "ações e informações: paciente, rede de apoio e serviços de saúde" desvelando os significados das estratégias e mudanças desenvolvidas nas atividades de vida diária bem como os desafios em face das informações e dos serviços de saúde durante o período da pandemia. Conclusão: o estudo foi capaz de compreender a vivência dos pacientes transplantados hepáticos ante os desafios enfrentados por eles durante a pandemia. Permitiu visualizar estratégias de enfrentamento, sentimentos e significados com base na perspectiva do próprio receptor. Como contribuição, apresenta possibilidades de alcance de melhorias nos serviços e de atenção às fragilidades dos serviços de saúde, oportunizando reflexões para a melhoria desse cuidado, considerando as especificidades e complexidades do pós-operatório do transplante hepático.

Genotoxicity of Three Micro/Nanocelluloses with Different Physicochemical Characteristics in MG-63 and V79 Cells.

(1) Background: Nanocellulose is an innovative engineered nanomaterial with an enormous potential for use in a wide array of industrial and biomedical applications and with fast growing economic value. The expanding production of nanocellulose is leading to an increased human exposure, raising concerns about their potential health effects. This study was aimed at assessing the potential toxic and genotoxic effects of different nanocelluloses in two mammalian cell lines; (2) Methods: Two micro/nanocelluloses, produced with a TEMPO oxidation pre-treatment (CNFs) and an enzymatic pre-treatment (CMFs), and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were tested in osteoblastic-like human cells (MG-63) and Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts (V79) using the MTT and clonogenic assays to analyse cytotoxicity, and the micronucleus assay to test genotoxicity; (3) Results: cytotoxicity was observed by the clonogenic assay in V79 cells, particularly for CNCs, but not by the MTT assay; CNF induced micronuclei in both cell lines and nucleoplasmic bridges in MG-63 cells; CMF and CNC induced micronuclei and nucleoplasmic bridges in MG-63 cells, but not in V79 cells; (4) Conclusions: All nanocelluloses revealed cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, although at different concentrations, that may be related to their physicochemical differences and availability for cell uptake, and to differences in the DNA damage response of the cell model.

Analysis of the In Vitro Toxicity of Nanocelluloses in Human Lung Cells as Compared to Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes.

Cellulose micro/nanomaterials (CMNM), comprising cellulose microfibrils (CMF), nanofibrils (CNF), and nanocrystals (CNC), are being recognized as promising bio-nanomaterials due to their natural and renewable source, attractive properties, and potential for applications with industrial and economical value. Thus, it is crucial to investigate their potential toxicity before starting their production at a larger scale. The present study aimed at evaluating the cell internalization and in vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of CMNM as compared to two multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), NM-401 and NM-402, in A549 cells. The exposure to all studied NM, with the exception of CNC, resulted in evident cellular uptake, as analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. However, none of the CMNM induced cytotoxic effects, in contrast to the cytotoxicity observed for the MWCNT. Furthermore, no genotoxicity was observed for CNF, CNC, and NM-402 (cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay), while CMF and NM-401 were able to significantly raise micronucleus frequency. Only NM-402 was able to induce ROS formation, although it did not induce micronuclei. Thus, it is unlikely that the observed CMF and NM-401 genotoxicity is mediated by oxidative DNA damage. More studies targeting other genotoxicity endpoints and cellular and molecular events are underway to allow for a more comprehensive safety assessment of these nanocelluloses.

Cellulose Nanocrystal Aqueous Colloidal Suspensions: Evidence of Density Inversion at the Isotropic-Liquid Crystal Phase Transition.

The colloidal suspensions of aqueous cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are known to form liquid crystalline (LC) systems above certain critical concentrations. From an isotropic phase, tactoid formation, growth, and sedimentation have been determined as the genesis of a high-density cholesteric phase, which, after drying, originates solid iridescent films. Herein, the coexistence of a liquid crystal upper phase and an isotropic bottom phase in CNC aqueous suspensions at the isotropic-nematic phase separation is reported. Furthermore, isotropic spindle-like domains are observed in the low-density LC phase and high-density LC phases are also prepared. The CNCs isolated from the low- and high-density LC phases are found to have similar average lengths, diameters, and surface charges. The existence of an LC low-density phase is explained by the presence of air dissolved in the water present within the CNCs. The air dissolves out when the water solidifies into ice and remains within the CNCs. The self-adjustment of the cellulose chain conformation enables the entrapment of air within the CNCs and CNC buoyancy in aqueous suspensions.

Performance in the accuracy task in children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech after an integrated intervention of literacy and motor skills.

Difficult in literacy skills are often seen in children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). This occurs because oral language has direct relationship with reading and writing learning. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance in the accuracy task of an integrated phonoarticulatory awareness, motor skills and literacy intervention of three children with CAS. Three boys between 5;3 and 5;8 years of age, with CAS, were offered 2 hours per week of therapy sessions based on literacy and motor skills. The children were assessed before and after therapy and at a maintenance assessment 1 month after the treatment ceased. The children improved on the accuracy task considering their deficits level. Improvement was maintained at the maintenance assessment. Therapy based on literacy considering phonoarticulatory awareness and motor skills can help children with CAS, but the severity of the children's communication problems must be taken into consideration.

Performance in the accuracy task in children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech after an integrated intervention of literacy and motor skills / Desempenho na tarefa de precisão em crianças com Apraxia de Fala na Infância após intervenção integrada de alfabetização e habilidades motoras

ABSTRACT Difficult in literacy skills are often seen in children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). This occurs because oral language has direct relationship with reading and writing learning. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance in the accuracy task of an integrated phonoarticulatory awareness, motor skills and literacy intervention of three children with CAS. Three boys between 5;3 and 5;8 years of age, with CAS, were offered 2 hours per week of therapy sessions based on literacy and motor skills. The children were assessed before and after therapy and at a maintenance assessment 1 month after the treatment ceased. The children improved on the accuracy task considering their deficits level. Improvement was maintained at the maintenance assessment. Therapy based on literacy considering phonoarticulatory awareness and motor skills can help children with CAS, but the severity of the children's communication problems must be taken into consideration.

RESUMO Dificuldade nas habilidades de alfabetização são frequentemente observadas em crianças com Apraxia da Fala na Infância (AFI). Isso ocorre porque a linguagem oral tem relação direta com a aprendizagem da leitura e da escrita. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho na tarefa de acurácia de uma intervenção integrada de consciência fonoarticulatória, habilidades motoras e letramento de três crianças com AFI. Três meninos com idade entre 5:3 e 5:8 anos, com AFI, receberam 2 horas semanais de sessões de terapia baseadas na alfabetização e habilidades motoras. As crianças foram avaliadas antes e após a terapia e em uma avaliação de manutenção 1 mês após o término do tratamento. As crianças melhoraram na tarefa de precisão, considerando o nível de seus déficits. A melhora foi mantida na avaliação de manutenção. A terapia baseada na alfabetização, considerando a consciência fonológica e as habilidades motoras, pode ajudar as crianças com AFI, mas a gravidade dos problemas de comunicação das crianças deve ser levada em consideração.

Data on metals, nonmetal, and metalloid in the samples of the canned tuna and canned sardines sold in Brazil.

The safety of food is a matter of global concern today. Continuous monitoring of canned tuna and canned sardines quality is essential regarding metal, nonmetal, and metalloid content. In this article, we present the data on the elemental content obtained in canned tuna and canned sardines by using inductively coupled plasma optical spectrometry (ICP OES), as well as the data on Pollution Index (PI) and Health Risk Index (HRI). Pollution index and health risk index are tools used to assess elemental contamination in the environment and food. A total of 6 metals (Al, Ba, Ca, Cu, Fe, and Zn), one nonmetal (Se), and one metalloid (As) were quantified in the samples of the canned tuna and canned sardines. For elements as Al, Cu, Fe, and Se, PI > 1. In addition, Cd, Co, Cr, Ni, Zn, and Pb have PI values less than 1. The HRI values for some canned tuna samples were above 1 for elements such as Al, Ba, Ca, and As. For canned sardines, the elements Cr, Ni, and As showed HRI values >1.

Determination of Macro- and Microelements in the Inflorescences of Banana Tree Using ICP OES: Evaluation of the Daily Recommendations of Intake for Humans.

The inflorescence of Musa paradisiaca, known as "banana heart" is a structure that includes flowers and bracts of banana, commonly used as food source worldwide. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the mineral components of Musa paradisiaca and (2) to compare the obtained results with previously reported data of Recommendation Dietary Allowances (RDAs) and edible plant permissible limits set by FAO/WHO. The samples were digested using microwave-assisted equipment, while elemental contents were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP OES). Metal (Mg, Ca, Cr, Ni, Cu, Fe, and Zn) and nonmetal (S and P) contents were detected. According to RDA, the inflorescences could be excellent sources of Mg, P, Cr, Cu, Zn, and Fe for females, males, and pregnant women, all age 31-50 y, as well as children (4-8 y). Bracts are good source of Zn for male and pregnant women and good source of Fe for children. All the samples contained considerable amounts of Mg, Ca, P, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Fe, which were quite low to induce deleterious effects (UL). FAO/WHO limits for edible plants have not yet been established for S, P, Mg, and Ca, but Ni and Zn are below of those limit values. However, Cr and Cu concentrations are higher than the values established for edible plants and may pose a threat to human health. Farmers should be encouraged by government agencies, not only for sustainability of production but also to ensure the storage and trade of banana tree inflorescence.

Homes for the aged: a study of a health region in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Lares para idosos: um estudo em uma região de saúde do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

INTRODUCTION: With the aging of the population, the demand for Homes for the Aged (HFAs) grows. OBJECTIVE: To analyze resources and population of HFAs and to check the fulfillment of the criteria from the national regulations. METHODS: Descriptive quantitative study including 11 philanthropic HFAs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Data was collected through a questionnaire applied to the responsible for the facility. RESULTS: The study comprised 318 workers and 522 elders. HFAs presented: some accommodations without private bathrooms (100%); external area and administrative office (72.7%); cafeteria and support room (54.5%); ecumenical room (36.4%); rooms with more than four beds (45.5%). The prevailing reasons for admission were brought by family member (69.2%); social vulnerability (36.4%). Death was the main reason for leaving the facility. The average age of elders was 76.8 years, 58.4% were women. The dependence grade was I for 31.1%; II for 33.9%; and III for 35%. Leisure and cultural activities occurred in 72.7% of HFAs. In 27.3% there were records of visits. Only 9.1% had cooperation from families. Available human resources were nurses (72.7%); physicians and nursing assistants (63.3%); physical therapists (45.5%); psychologists (36.4%); caregivers (27.3%); occupational therapists (9.1%). In 63.3% of facilities, workers carried out mixed activities. The costs were covered by retirement pensions, partnerships, and donations. The main obstacles were financial resources or dependence on donations and rigorous health surveillance or compliance with standards. CONCLUSION: The HFAs partially fulfill the national criteria, impairing the quality of care provided to elders.

INTRODUÇÃO: Com o aumento do envelhecimento, cresce a procura por Instituições de Longa Permanência para Idosos (HFAs). OBJETIVO: Analisar recursos e população de HFAs, verificando-se o cumprimento dos critérios da RDC nº 283/2005 da Anvisa. MÉTODOS: Pesquisa descritiva e quantitativa com 11 HFAs filantrópicas no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. A coleta de dados foi realizada por questionário aplicado ao responsável pela unidade. RESULTADOS: O estudo envolveu 318 trabalhadores e 522 idosos. As HFAs apresentaram: alguns quartos sem banheiro (100%); área externa e sala administrativa (72,7%); refeitório e sala de apoio (54,5%); sala ecumênica (36,4%); quartos com mais de quatro leitos (45,5%). As razões de admissão prevalentes foram: idosos trazidos por familiares (69,2%) e vulnerabilidade social (36,4%). A morte foi a principal razão de saída. A idade média dos idosos foi 76,8 anos e 58,4% eram mulheres. O grau de dependência foi I para 31.1%; II para 33,9% e III para 35%. Atividades de lazer e cultura ocorrem em 72,7% das HFAs. Em 27,3% há registro de visitas. Somente 9,1% atuam junto às famílias. Os recursos humanos disponíveis foram enfermeiro (72,7%), médico e técnico de enfermagem (63,3%), fisioterapeuta (45,5%), psicólogo (36,4%) e cuidador (27,3%). Em 63,3% das unidades, trabalhadores realizam atividades mistas. Os custos são cobertos por aposentadorias, parcerias e doações. As principais dificuldades foram recursos financeiros ou dependência de doações e rigor da vigilância sanitária ou cumprimento de normas. CONCLUSÃO: As HFAs cumprem parcialmente aos critérios da Resolução, prejudicando a qualidade do atendimento aos idosos.

Canjiqueira Fruit: Are We Losing the Best of It?

Fruits and byproducts are valuable sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds, which are associated with a decreased risk of developing several diseases, such as cancer, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and Alzheimer's. The fruits of canjiqueira (Byrsonima cydoniifolia) are already exploited as a food resource, while the seeds are discarded. This study aimed at showing the potential of the whole fruit of canjiqueira. Elemental characterization was performed on ICP OES, while thermal stability was assessed on thermogravimetry. The determination of the fatty acid profile was carried out on gas chromatography and bioactive compound identification using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Results show that both parts of canjiqueira fruit are a source of various minerals, such as Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, and Mn while the seed only is a good source for Zn. Oleic and linoleic acids are the main compounds in pulp and seed. The thermal stability of seed oil is superior to pulp oil, while piceatannol concentration is higher in seed than pulp. All parts of canjiqueira fruit may be used as a strategy to address nutrition issues and are valuable ingredients to prospective food products.

The use of isoxazoline and isoxazole scaffolding in the design of novel thiourea and amide liquid-crystalline compounds.

A series of novel thiourea and amide liquid crystals containing 5-membered isoxazoline and isoxazole rings were synthetized and the liquid crystal properties studied. Thioureas were obtained using a condensation reaction of benzoyl chlorides, arylamines and ammonium thiocyanate. The amides, on the other hand, were the byproduct of a quantitative reaction which used potassium cyanate as the starting material. Thiourea and amide derivatives were predominantly SmA mesophase inductors. A nematic mesophase was observed only for thioureas and amides containing an isoxazole ring. Additionaly, the liquid crystal behavior was also dependent on the relative position of nitrogen and oxygen atoms on the 5-membered heterocycle.