Oligonucleotide probes for imaging and diagnosis of bacterial infections.

The rise of infectious diseases as a public health concern has necessitated the development of rapid and precise diagnostic methods. Imaging techniques like nuclear and optical imaging provide the ability to diagnose infectious diseases within the body, eliminating delays caused by sampling and pre-enrichments of clinical samples and offering spatial information that can aid in a more informed diagnosis. Traditional molecular probes are typically created to image infected tissue without accurately identifying the pathogen. In contrast, oligonucleotides can be tailored to target specific RNA sequences, allowing for the identification of pathogens, and even generating antibiotic susceptibility profiles by focusing on drug resistance genes. Despite the benefits that nucleic acid mimics (NAMs) have provided in terms of stabilizing oligonucleotides, the inadequate delivery of these relatively large molecules into the cytoplasm of bacteria remains a challenge for widespread use of this technology. This review summarizes the key advancements in the field of oligonucleotide probes for in vivo imaging, highlighting the most promising delivery systems described in the literature for developing optical imaging through in vivo hybridization.

Assessment of Portuguese fitness centers: Bridging the knowledge gap on harmful microbial contamination with focus on fungi.

The lack of knowledge regarding the extent of microbial contamination in Portuguese fitness centers (FC) puts attendees and athletes at risk for bioaerosol exposure. This study intends to characterize microbial contamination in Portuguese FC by passive sampling methods: electrostatic dust collectors (EDC) (N = 39), settled dust (N = 8), vacuum filters (N = 8), and used cleaning mops (N = 12). The obtained extracts were plated in selective culture media for fungi and bacteria. Filters, EDC, and mop samples' extracts were also screened for antifungal resistance and used for the molecular detection of the selected Aspergillus sections. The detection of mycotoxins was conducted using a high-performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC) system and to determine the cytotoxicity of microbial contaminants recovered by passive sampling, HepG2 (human liver carcinoma) and A549 (human alveolar epithelial) cells were employed. The results reinforce the use of passive sampling methods to identify the most critical areas and identify environmental factors that influence microbial contamination, namely having a swimming pool. The cardio fitness area presented the highest median value of total bacteria (TSA: 9.69 × 102 CFU m-2.day-1) and Gram-negative bacteria (VRBA: 1.23 CFU m-2.day-1), while for fungi it was the open space area, with 1.86 × 101 CFU m-2.day-1. Aspergillus sp. was present in EDC and in filters used to collect settled dust. Reduced azole susceptibility was observed in filters and EDC (on ICZ and VCZ), and in mops (on ICZ). Fumonisin B2 was the only mycotoxin detected and it was present in all sampling matrixes except settled dust. High and moderate cytotoxicity was obtained, suggesting that A549 cells were more sensitive to samples' contaminants. The observed widespread of critical toxigenic fungal species with clinical relevance, such as Aspergillus section Fumigati, as well as Fumonisin B2 emphasizes the importance of frequent and effective cleaning procedures while using shared mops appeared as a vehicle of cross-contamination.

Assessment of indoor air quality in health clubs: insights into (ultra)fine and coarse particles and gaseous pollutants.

Introduction: Exercising on regular basis provides countless health benefits. To ensure the health, well-being and performance of athletes, optimal indoor air quality, regular maintenance and ventilation in sport facilities are essential. Methods: This study assessed the levels of particulate, down to the ultrafine range (PM10, PM2.5, and particle number concentration in size range of 20-1,000 nm, i.e., - PNC20-1000 nm), gaseous pollutants (total volatile organic compounds - TVOCs, CO2, and O3) and comfort parameters (temperature - T, relative humidity - RH) in different functional spaces of health clubs (n = 8), under specific occupancy and ventilation restrictions. Results and Discussion: In all HCs human occupancy resulted in elevated particles (up to 2-3 times than those previously reported), considering mass concentrations (PM10: 1.9-988.5 µg/m3 PM2.5: 1.6-479.3 µg/m3) and number (PNC 1.23 × 103 - 9.14 × 104 #/cm3). Coarse and fine PM indicated a common origin (rs = 0.888-0.909), while PNC showed low-moderate associations with particle mass (rs = 0.264-0.629). In addition, up to twice-higher PM and PNC were detected in cardiofitness & bodybuilding (C&B) areas as these spaces were the most frequented, reinforcing the impacts of occupational activities. In all HCs, TVOCs (0.01-39.67 mg/m3) highly exceeded the existent protection thresholds (1.6-8.9 times) due to the frequent use of cleaning products and disinfectants (2-28 times higher than in previous works). On contrary to PM and PNC, TVOCs were higher (1.1-4.2 times) in studios than in C&B areas, due to the limited ventilations combined with the smaller room areas/volumes. The occupancy restrictions also led to reduced CO2 (122-6,914 mg/m3) than previously observed, with the lowest values in HCs with natural airing. Finally, the specific recommendations for RH and T in sport facilities were largely unmet thus emphasizing the need of proper ventilation procedures in these spaces.

Nanostructured label-free electrochemical immunosensor for detection of a Parkinson's disease biomarker.

Aggregation of α-synuclein has been recognized as a critical event in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease whose prevalence is increasing with great socio-economic challenges for future generations. Here, we developed a sensitive and specific electrochemical immunosensor for the detection and quantification of this biomarker, based on the voltammetric study of a redox indicator signal, which decreases upon the analyte recognition by the antibody due to the electronic resistance increase. The proposed immunosensor is based on a screen-printed carbon electrode modified in a layer-by-layer approach, which through extensive characterization led to the successful nanostructuration of the transducer, through the drop-cast of 3.0 µL of a 0.1 mg mL-1 single-walled carbon nanotubes suspension followed by electrodeposition of gold nanoparticles in a 3 mM HAuCl4 solution under a -0.2 V potential for 150 s. Monoclonal antibodies were immobilized on the gold nanoparticles surface through chemical modification at an optimal concentration of 200 µg mL-1. Using the proposed immunosensor, α-synuclein was detected in the range of 0.01-10 ng mL-1 with a 4.1 and 12.6 pg mL-1 limits of detection and quantification, respectively. Recovery values of 96.7, 106.2 and 102.9% were attained for the tested concentrations spiked in fetal bovine serum while also presenting excellent specificity and stability throughout one month. The nanostructured immunosensor provided a great interface for electronic transduction and biological recognition events, which enabled fast, sensitive and specific detection of α-synuclein while being based on a simple and inexpensive technology requiring small sample volumes, crucial characteristics for application in point-of-care testing.

Utilização de eHealth pela pessoa com doença renal crónica / Use of eHealth by people with chronic kidney disease

Conhecida como um flagelo e um desafio à escala mundial, a doença renal crónica (DRC) é um importante problema de saúde pública. Estima-se que 1 em cada 10 adultos no mundo possa sofrer de DRC, e que se esta não for tratada poderá conduzir à morte. A deteção precoce poderá amenizar a progressão da doença, no entanto a autogestão é considerada por estas pessoas um processo complexo e multifacetado que requer apoio e estratégias eficazes para melhorar a qualidade de vida, capacitando-os a assumir um papel mais interventivo, incentivando à mudança de comportamentos e à adoção de estilos de vida saudáveis. Pretende-se com este relatório de estágio apresentar o desenvolvimento das competências comuns do enfermeiro especialista, de acordo com o Regulamento nº 140/2019, da Ordem dos Enfermeiros e das competências especificas do enfermeiro de nefrologia de acordo com as competências recomendadas por Chamney (2007). Com a finalidade de desenvolver as competências de enfermeiro especialista e mestre realizaram-se três estágios nos diferentes contextos de nefrologia numa instituição hospitalar de referência. Realizou-se uma revisão scoping para mapear e analisar as eHealth que são utilizadas pelas pessoas com DRC, orientada pela metodologia proposta pelo Joana Briggs Institute (Peters et al., 2020). A sua elaboração foi crucial para analisar o potencial das eHealth enquanto recurso para traçar estratégias capazes de melhorar a qualidade de vida, planear intervenções educativas, melhorar o conhecimento e perceção da doença, capacitando assim estas pessoas para o autocuidado com eficácia. O referencial teórico presente neste relatório, é a teoria de médio alcance de Rozzano Locsin - Technological Competency as Caring in Nursing, este teórico refere a competência tecnológica como um complemento, uma mais valia na arte de "cuidar", refere que os enfermeiros devem ter competências que lhes permitam fazer uso destas inovações, sem menosprezar o cuidado humano, num ambiente onde possam coexistir harmoniosamente. O relatório de estágio irá propiciar a divulgação de evidência disponível sobre a temática, clarificar e identificar lacunas do conhecimento neste âmbito, permitindo assim contribuir para que futuramente se desenvolvam estudos sobre intervenções de enfermagem baseadas no feedback de eHealth e o seu impacto na vida do DRC.

Known as a blight and a challenge worldwide, the Chronical Kidney Disease (CKD) is an important public health issue. In average, 1 out 10 adults suffer of CKD, and left untreated, it can lead to death. An early detection can slow the overall progress of this condition, however it's self-management is considered a lengthy and complex process, that requires support and effective strategies to better their quality of life, empowering the patients to assume a more active role, opting for better habits and healthy lifestyles. The goal of this internship report is to reveal the development of the common skills of a nurse specialist, according to Regulation nº140/2019, from the Nurses Order, and the specific skills of a nephrology nurse, according to the skills recommended by Chamney (2007). With the aim of developing the skills of nurse specialist and master, three internships were taken in different contexts of the nephrological area in a referenced hospital institution. A scoping review was performed to map and analyze the eHealth technologies used by the people with CKD, oriented by the methodology proposed by the Joana Briggs Institute (Peters et al., 2020). It's execution was crucial to analyze the potential of the eHealth technologies as a resource to design strategies capable of improving quality of life, plan educational interventions, increase the knowledge and perception of this condition, empowering these people for efficient self-care. The theoretical reference used in the report, is the Mid-Range Theory by Rozzano Locsin ­ Technological Competency as Caring in Nursing. Locsin understands technological components as a complement to the art of "taking care", refering that nurses should have skills that allow them to use innovations, without disregarding the human side, in an environment where they can coexist peacefully. This internship report will provide awareness of evidence available regarding the theme, identify and clarify gaps in the knowledge in this scope, allowing future studies to further analyze nursing interventions based on feedback received from eHealth technologies and their impact on the lives of CKD patients.

Nanocarriers Based on Gold Nanoparticles for Epigallocatechin Gallate Delivery in Cancer Cells.

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are inorganic and biocompatible nanovehicles capable of conjugating biomolecules to enhance their efficacy in cancer treatment. The high and reactive surface area provides good advantages for conjugating active compounds. Two approaches were developed in this work to improve the Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) antioxidant efficacy. AuNPs were synthesized by reducing gold salt with chitosan. One other nanosystem was developed by functionalizing AuNPs with cysteamine using the Turkevitch method. The physico-chemical characterization of EGCG conjugated in the two nanosystems-based gold nanoparticles was achieved. The in vitro toxic effect induced by the nanoconjugates was evaluated in pancreatic cancer cells, showing that encapsulated EGCG keeps its antioxidant activity and decreasing the BxPC3 cell growth. A significant cell growth inhibition was observed in 50% with EGCG concentrations in the range of 2.2 and 3.7 µM in EGCG-ChAuNPs and EGCG-Cyst-AuNPs nanoconjugates, respectively. The EGCG alone had to be present at 23 µM to induce the same cytotoxicity response. Caspase-3 activity assay demonstrated that the conjugation of EGCG induces an enhancement of BxPC3 apoptosis compared with EGCG alone. In conclusion, AuNPs complexes can be used as delivery carriers to increase EGCG antioxidant activity in cancer tissues.

Influence of in vitro neuronal membranes on the anti-amyloidogenic activity of gallic acid: Implication for the therapy of Alzheimer's disease.

Molecules inhibiting the amyloid beta (Aß) peptide aggregation and/or disaggregating mature fibrils are a promising approach for the Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapy, as the Aß fibrillation is one of the key triggers of the disease. Gallic acid (GA) is a phenolic acid with anti-amyloidogenic activity against Aß in buffered solutions. However, there is still no evidence of these properties in vivo. Given the rate of failures of AD drug development, there is a huge demand of replicating the in vivo environment in in vitro studies, thus allowing to stop earlier the study of molecules with no effect in vivo. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effect of in vitro neuronal membranes on the GA's ability in preventing Aß1-42 aggregation and disrupting preformed fibrils. To this end, liposomes were employed to mimic the cell membrane environment. The results reveal that the lipid membranes did not affect the GA's ability in inhibiting Aß1-42 fibrillation. However, in vitro neuronal membranes modulate the GA-induced Aß fibrils disaggregation, which may be related with the moderate affinity of the compound for the lipid membrane. Even so, GA presented strong anti-amyloidogenic properties in the cell membrane-like environment. This work highlights the promising value of GA on preventing and treating AD, thus justifying its study in animal models.

Efecto de la intervención educativa en el postoperatorio de personas con estomias intestinales de eliminación: revisión sistemática / Efeito da intervenção educativa no pós-operatório de pessoas com estomias intestinais de eliminação: revisão sistemática / Effect of educational intervention in postoperative people with intestinal elimination stomies: systematic review

OBJETIVO: Identificar la efectividad de la intervención educativa em el postoperatorio de personas con estomias intestinales de eliminación. MÉTODO: Revisión sistemática de la literatura registrada en el PRÓSPERO: 42018094601 y realizada en abril de 2018, en las bases MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Cochrane, LILACS y BDENF vía Biblioteca Virtual em Salud (BVS), además de las listas de referencia de los artículos seleccionados para encontrar literatura relevante adicional. Se incluyen artículos con diseño experimental (por ejemplo, estudios no controlados, estudios controlados y ensayos clínicos randomizados y controlados) y cuasi-experimental, sin restricción de idioma y tiempo. RESULTADOS: Se seleccionaron 6 estudios y el tipo de intervención educativa más prevalente fue la educación estándar para el grupo de control y educación estándar más acompañamiento telefónico para el grupo experimental. La mayoría de los participantes tenía edad a partir de 50 años y el tiempo de duración de las intervenciones educativas varió de 3 a 6 semanas. CONCLUSIÓN: Se verificó efecto positivo de la intervención educativa en el postoperatorio de personas con estomias intestinales de eliminación en los aspectos: conocimiento, satisfacción, tiempo de internación, aspectos físicos, mentales y sociales, calidad de vida, conocimiento sobre prácticas de autocuidado con alimentación y estomia, ajuste a la estomia y complicaciones

OBJETIVO: Identificar o efeitoda intervenção educativa no pós-operatório de pessoas com estomias intestinais de eliminação. MÉTODO: Revisão sistemática da literatura registrada no PRÓSPERO: 42018094601 y realizada em abril de 2018, nas bases MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Cochrane, e LILACS e BDENF via Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), além das listas de referência dos artigos selecionados para encontrar literatura relevante adicional. Incluíram-se artigos com desenho experimental (incluindo estudos não controlados, estudos controlados e ensaios clínicos randomizados e controlados) e quase-experimental, sem restrição de idioma e tempo. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 6 estudos e o tipo de intervenção educativa mais prevalente foi educação padrão para o grupo controle e educação padrão mais acompanhamento telefônico para o grupo experimental. A maioria dos participantes tinha idade a partir de 50 anos e o tempo de duração das intervenções educativas variou de 3 até 6 semanas. CONCLUSÃO: Verificou-se efeito positivo da intervenção educativa no pós-operatório de pessoas com estomias intestinais de eliminação nos aspectos: conhecimento, satisfação, tempo de internação, aspectos fisicos, mentais e sociais, qualidade de vida, conhecimento sobre práticas de autocuidado com alimentação e estomia, ajustamento a estomia e complicações

OBJECTIVE: To identify the effect of educational intervention in the postoperative period of people with intestinal elimination ostomies. METHODS: Systematic review of the literature on PROSPERO: 42018094601 carried out in April 2018, in the bases MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Cochrane, and LILACS and BDENF via the Virtual Health Library (VHL), in addition to the reference lists of articles selected for finding additional relevant literature (including uncontrolled studies, controlled studies and randomized controlled trials) and quasi-experimental, without language and time restriction. RESULTS: 6 studies were selected and the type of most prevalent educational was standard education for the control group and standard education plus telephone follow-up for the experimental group. The majority of the participants were 50 years old and the duration of the educational interventions varied from 3 to 6 weeks. CONCLUSION: There was a positive effect of educational intervention in the postoperative period of people with intestinal elimination ostomies in the following aspects: knowledge, satisfaction, hospitalization time, physical, mental and social aspects, quality of life, knowledge about self-care practices with feeding and ostomy, adjustment to the ostomy and complications

Assessment of ultrafine particles in primary schools: Emphasis on different indoor microenvironments.

Due to the negative health impacts, significant efforts have been directed towards investigating ultrafine particle (UFP) exposure in various indoor environments. As children spend approximately one third of their time in schools, educatory environments deserve particular attention; however, majority of past research has focused on UFP assessment in classrooms. Thus, this work aims to expand the characterization of UFP in primary schools by considering different indoor and outdoor school microenvironments and estimating inhalation doses for the respective students (6-11yrs old). Real-time UFP measurements were daily conducted (9:00-17:30) in 20 primary schools in Oporto (January-April 2014; October-February 2015) in classrooms, canteens, gyms, libraries, and concurrently outdoors. Overall, UFP concentrations showed large temporal and spatial variations. For classrooms (n = 73), median UFP (1.56 × 103-16.8 × 103 # cm-3) were lower than the corresponding levels in ambient air of schools (1.79 × 103-24.1 × 103 # cm-3). Outdoor emissions contributed to indoor UFP (indoor-to-outdoor ratios I/O of 0.0.30-0.85), but ventilation, room characteristics and its occupancy were identified as important parameters contributing to overall indoor UFP levels. Considering specific indoor school microenvironments, canteens were the microenvironment with the highest UFP levels (5.47 × 103-36.4 × 103 # cm-3), cooking conducted directly on school grounds resulted in significantly elevated UFP in the respective classrooms (p < 0.05); the lowest UFP were found in libraries (4.45 × 103-8.50 × 103 # cm-3) mostly due to the limited occupancies. Although students spend majority of their school time in classrooms (66-71%), classroom exposure was not consistently the predominant contributor to school total UFP inhalation dose (29-75%). Outdoor exposure contributed 23-70% of school dose (depending on UFP levels in ambient levels and/or conducted activities) whereas short periods of lunch break accounted for 8-40%. Therefore, when evaluating UFP exposure in educatory settings other microenvironments beyond classrooms should be an integral part of the study.

Natural Compounds for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies.

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder related with the increase of age and it is the main cause of dementia in the world. AD affects cognitive functions, such as memory, with an intensity that leads to several functional losses. The continuous increase of AD incidence demands for an urgent development of effective therapeutic strategies. Despite the extensive research on this disease, only a few drugs able to delay the progression of the disease are currently available. In the last years, several compounds with pharmacological activities isolated from plants, animals and microorganisms, revealed to have beneficial effects for the treatment of AD, targeting different pathological mechanisms. Thus, a wide range of natural compounds may play a relevant role in the prevention of AD and have proven to be efficient in different preclinical and clinical studies. This work aims to review the natural compounds that until this date were described as having significant benefits for this neurological disease, focusing on studies that present clinical trials.

Contribuição de educação permanente semipresencial no conhecimento de enfermeiros sobre estomias intestinais de eliminação / Contribution of permanent semi in-person education on the knowledge of nurses on intestinal elimination stomas / Contribución de la educación permanente semipresencial al conocimiento de los enfermeros sobre los estomas intestinales de eliminación

Objetivo: avaliar a contribuição de um programa de educação permanente semipresencial no conhecimento de enfermeiros sobre estomias intestinais de eliminação. Método: estudo quase-experimental, do tipo grupo único, antes e depois, realizado com 51 enfermeiros de três hospitais de grande porte do Piauí, no período de agosto a outubro de 2014, nas seguintes etapas: identificação dos enfermeiros, exposição dos objetivos e convite para participação na pesquisa, préteste, programa de educação permanente semipresencial e pós-teste. Resultados: a média do número de acertos dos enfermeiros no pré-teste 25,5 (dp=4,2) foi menor do que no pós-teste 31,5 (dp=3,0) e essa diferença foi estatisticamente significante (p=0,000). Conclusão: neste estudo, o programa de educação permanente semipresencial contribuiu para melhorar o conhecimento dos enfermeiros sobre estomias intestinais de eliminação.(AU)

Obcjetive: to evaluate the contribution of an in-person permanent education program on the knowledge of nurses on intestinal elimination. Method: a quasiexperimental, single-group, before and after study conducted with 51 nurses from three large hospitals in Piauí, from August to October 2014, in the following stages: identification of nurses, presentation of the objectives and invitation to participate in the research, pre-test, semi in-person permanent education program and posttest. Results: the mean number of hits by the nurses in the pre-test 25.5 (sd=4.2) was lower than in the post-test 31.5 (sd=3.0) and this difference was statistically significant (p=0.000). Conclusion: in this study, the semi in-person permanent education program contributed to improve nurse knowledge about intestinal elimination stomas.(AU)

Objetivo: evaluar la contribución de un programa de educación permanente semipresencial al conocimiento de los enfermeros sobre los estomas intestinales de eliminación. Método: estudio cuasi-experimental, tipo grupo único, antes y después, realizado con 51 enfermeros de tres hospitales grandes de Piauí, entre agosto y octubre de 2014, en las siguientes etapas: identificación de enfermeros, exposición de objetivos e invitación para participar en la investigación, prueba preliminar, programa de educación permanente semipresencial y prueba posterior. Resultados: el promedio del número de respuestas correctas en la prueba preliminar de 25,5 (dp=4,2) era inferior al de la prueba posterior 31,5 (dp=3,0) y esa diferencia era estadísticamente significante (p=0,000). Conclusión: en este estudio, el programa de educación permanente semipresencial contribuye a mejorar el conocimiento de los enfermeros sobre los estomas intestinales de eliminación.(AU)

Saberes e práticas do enfermeiro na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva / Nurse's knowledge and practices in the intensive care unit

Objetivo: analisar o conhecimento e a prática do enfermeiro sobre a "assistência de Enfermagem de qualidade" na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Método: trata-se de estudo qualitativo, descritivo, observacional, realizado com dez enfermeiros efetivos da UTI. Aplicou-se um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado e analisaram-se os dados por meio de Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: revela-se que a maioria é do sexo feminino, com idade média de 44 anos e média de formação de 16 anos. Geraram-se duas categorias, sendo que uma refere-se ao conhecimento do enfermeiro sobre a qualidade da assistência de Enfermagem e outra sobre a prática do enfermeiro. Conclusão: observou-se que os enfermeiros atribuíram a qualidade da assistência ao cuidado centrado no paciente de forma humanizada, holística e segura. Consideraram-se, quanto à aplicabilidade na prática, as atividades desenvolvidas na rotina como processos que garantem uma assistência de qualidade. Contribui-se, pelos resultados, para planejamentos e melhoria da assistência de Enfermagem.(AU)

Resveratrol Brain Delivery for Neurological Disorders Prevention and Treatment.

Resveratrol (RES) is a natural polyphenolic non-flavonoid compound present in grapes, mulberries, peanuts, rhubarb and in several other plants. Numerous health effects have been related with its intake, such as anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and brain protective effects. The neuroprotective effects of RES in neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases, are related to the protection of neurons against oxidative damage and toxicity, and to the prevention of apoptotic neuronal death. In brain cancer, RES induces cell apoptotic death and inhibits angiogenesis and tumor invasion. Despite its great potential as therapeutic agent for the treatment of several diseases, RES exhibits some limitations. It has poor water solubility and it is chemically instable, being degraded by isomerization once exposed to high temperatures, pH changes, UV light, or certain types of enzymes. Thus, RES has low bioavailability, limiting its biological and pharmacological benefits. To overcome these limitations, RES can be delivered by nanocarriers. This field of nanomedicine studies how the drug administration, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics are affected by the use of nanosized materials. The role of nanotechnology, in the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases, arises from the necessity to mask the physicochemical properties of therapeutic drugs to prolong the half-life and to be able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This can be achieved by encapsulating the drug in a nanoparticle (NP), which can be made of different kinds of materials. An increasing trend to encapsulate and direct RES to the brain has been observed. RES has been encapsulated in many different types of nanosystems, as liposomes, lipid and polymeric NPs. Furthermore, some of these nanocarriers have been modified with targeting molecules able to recognize the brain areas. Then, this article aims to overview the RES benefits and limitations in the treatment of neurological diseases, as the different nanotechnology strategies to overcome these limitations.

Indoor air quality in health clubs: Impact of occupancy and type of performed activities on exposure levels.

Associations between indoor air quality (IAQ) and health in sport practise environments are not well understood due to limited knowledge of magnitude of inhaled pollutants. Thus, this study assessed IAQ in four health clubs (HC1-HC4) and estimated inhaled doses during different types of activities. Gaseous (TVOCs, CO, O3, CO2) and particulate pollutants (PM1, PM4) were continuously collected during 40 days. IAQ was influenced both by human occupancy and the intensity of the performed exercises. Levels of all pollutants were higher when clubs were occupied (p < 0.05) than for vacant periods, with higher medians in main workout areas rather than in spaces/studios for group activities. In all spaces, TVOCs highly exceeded legislative limit (600 µg/m3), even when unoccupied, indicating possible risks for the respective occupants. CO2 levels were well correlated with relative humidity (rs 0.534-0.625) and occupancy due to human exhalation and perspiration during exercising. Clubs with natural ventilations exhibited twice higher PM, with PM1 accounting for 93-96% of PM4; both PM were highly correlated (rs 0.936-0.995) and originated from the same sources. Finally, cardio classes resulted in higher inhalation doses than other types of exercising (1.7-2.6).

Indoor particulate pollution in fitness centres with emphasis on ultrafine particles.

Fitness centres (FC) represent a unique indoor microenvironment. Exercising on regular basis provides countless health benefits and improves overall well-being, but if these facilities have poor indoor air quality, the respective exercisers might be subjected to some adverse risks. Considering the limited existent data, this work aimed to evaluate particulate pollution (PM10, PM2.5, and ultrafine particles - UFP) in indoor air of FC and to estimate the respective risks for occupants (both staff and exercising subjects). Sampling was conducted during 40 consecutive days of May-June 2014 in general fitness areas, studios and classrooms (for group activities) of four different fitness centres (FC1-FC4) situated within Oporto metropolitan area, Portugal. The results showed that across the four FC, PM10 ranged between 5 and 1080 µg m-3 with median concentrations (15-43 µg m-3) fulfilling the limit (50 µg m-3) of Portuguese legislation in all FC. PM2.5 (medians 5-37 µg m-3; range 5-777 µg m-3) exceeded thresholds of 25 µg m-3 at some FC, indicating potential risks for the respective occupants; naturally ventilated FC exhibited significantly higher PM ranges (p < 0.05). Similarly, UFPs (range 0.5-88.6 × 103 # cm-3) median concentrations were higher (2-3 times) at FC without controlled ventilation systems. UFP were approximately twice higher (p < 0.05) during the occupied periods (mean of 9.7 × 103vs. 4.8 × 103 # cm-3) with larger temporal variations of UFP levels observed in general fitness areas than in classrooms and studios. Cardio activities (conducted in studios and classrooms) led to approximately twice the UFPs intakes than other types of exercising. These results indicate that even short-term physical activity (or more specifically its intensity) might strongly influence the daily inhalation dose. Finally, women exhibited 1.2 times higher UFPs intake than men thus suggesting the need for future gender-specific studies assessing UFP exposure.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in Portuguese educational settings: a comparison between preschools and elementary schools.

The aim of this study was to determine levels and risks due to inhalation exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in different educational settings, namely for 3- to 5- year-old and 6- to 10-year-old children. Eighteen PAH (16 priority designated by US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and dibenzo[a,l]pyrene and benzo[j]fluoranthene) were simultaneously collected in indoor and outdoor air at two Portuguese preschools (PS1-PS2) and five elementary schools (ES1-ES5) from March to May 2014. Indoor concentrations at PS and ES were significantly different, with total levels (∑PAHs) 0.721-15.9 ng/m3 at PS1-PS2 and 5.03-23.6 ng/m3 at ES1-ES5. The corresponding outdoor concentrations were, respectively, 1.22-32.7 ng/m3 and 2.6-31.5 ng/m3. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with 2-3 aromatic rings were predominantly emitted by indoor sources, while compounds with 4-6 aromatic rings were mainly generated by infiltration of ambient PAH pollution to indoors. Excess lifetime risks of lung cancer exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) designated guideline of 10-5 in both types of schools (15-42-fold at PS; 15-52-fold at ES). However, total (sum of indoor and outdoor exposure) incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) were below the USEPA level of 10-6 at all studied institutions and thus considered negligible. Finally, ILCR due to indoor exposure represented 60-75% and 70-85% of the total ILCR at PS and ES, respectively, thus indicating the need for development and implementation of indoor air quality guidelines in educations settings.

Indoor air quality in preschools (3- to 5-year-old children) in the Northeast of Portugal during spring-summer season: pollutants and comfort parameters.

Indoor air quality at schools (elementary, primary) has been the subject of many studies; however, there are still relative few data regarding preschool (3- to 5-year-old children) environments. This investigation determined the concentrations of particulate matter (PM)2.5, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), formaldehyde, carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3) as well as the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and relative humidity (RH) in the indoor and outdoor air of two preschools situated in different geographical regions of Portugal. The indoor concentrations of TVOC, CO, O3, and CO2 were predominantly higher at the end of school day compared to early morning periods. The TVOC and CO2 concentrations were higher indoors than outdoors suggesting predominantly an indoor origin. Outdoor air infiltrations were the major contributing source of CO and O3 to indoor air in both preschools. The concentrations of all pollutants were within the limits defined by national regulations and international organizations, except for TVOC that exceeded 8-12-fold higher than the recommendation of 0.2 mg/m3 proposed by European Commission. The levels of CO2 were below the protective guideline of 2250 mg/m3 (Portuguese legislation); however, the observed ranges exceeded the Portuguese margin of tolerance (2925 mg/m3) at the end of school days, indicating the impact of occupancy rates particularly at one of the preschools. Regarding comfort parameters, temperature exerted a significant influence on O3 concentrations, while RH values were significantly correlated with TVOC levels in indoor air of preschools, particularly during the late afternoon periods.

Incidência de lesão por pressão em um hospital universitário / Pressure injury incidence in a university hospital

Objetivo: identificar a incidência de lesão por pressão nas unidades de internação de um hospitaluniversitário da região nordeste do brasil. Metodologia: estudo quantitativo, prospectivo e descritivo,realizado com 114 pacientes dos três postos de internação de um hospital universitário da região nordeste dobrasil. a coleta de dados aconteceu durante 60 dias consecutivos no período de 03 de agosto a 01 de outubrode 2015. Resultados: a incidência de lesão por pressão foi de 6,1%, com predominância do sexo feminino,média de idade foi de 50,4 anos, sendo a região sacral a área mais acometida, foram identificadas lesão porpressão em estágio 1 e 2, e o tempo de internação para os que desenvolveram foi de 11 dias. Em relação àsmedidas de prevenção utilizadas na instituição observou-se que muitas vezes a mudança de decúbito eradelegada aos acompanhantes, e que suporte nutricional adequado e manutenção da pele higienizada foram àsmedidas de prevenção que mais se destacaram. Conclusão: os dados evidenciam baixa incidência quandocomparada com outros estudos, entretanto mostram que a maioria das lesões poderiam ter sido evitadas,evidenciando a necessidade e relevância da adoção de medidas baseadas em evidências de prevenção econdução deste agravo.

Objective: to identify the incidence of pressure injuries in inpatient units of a university hospital innortheastern Brazil. Methodology: quantitative, descriptive and prospective study with 114 patients fromthree impatient units of a university hospital in northeastern Brazil. Data collection took place during 60consecutive days in the period from 03 august to 01 october of 2015. Results: the incidence of pressureinjuries was 6.1%, predominantly female, average age was 50.44 years, the sacral region the most affectedarea, pressure injuries were identified in stage i and ii, and the length of stay for patients who developedpressure injuries was 11 days. Regarding preventive measures used in the institution, it was observed thatoften changing positions was delegated to the escort, and the appropriate nutritional support andmaintenance of sanitized skin were the preventive measures that were more noticeable. Conclusion: the datashow a low incidence when compared to other studies. However, the data also show that most pressureinjuries could have been avoided, highlighting the need and relevance of adopting measures aimed atpreventing and conducting this grievance.

Occupational exposure of firefighters to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in non-fire work environments.

This work aims to characterize personal exposure of firefighters to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in non-fire work environments (fire stations), and assesses the respective risks. Eighteen PAHs (16 considered by USEPA as priority pollutants, dibenzo[a,l]pyrene and benzo[j]fluoranthene) were monitored in breathing zones of workers at five Portuguese fire stations during a normal shift. The obtained levels of PAHs fulfilled all existent occupational exposure limits as well as air quality guidelines with total concentrations (ΣPAHs) in range of 46.8-155ngm-3. Light compounds (2-3 rings) were the most predominant congeners (74-96% of ΣPAHs) whereas PAHs with 5-6 rings accounted 3-9% of ΣPAHs. Fuel and biomass combustions, vehicular traffic emissions, and use of lubricant oils were identified as the main sources of PAHs exposure at the studied fire corporations. Incremental lifetime cancer risks were below the recommend USEPA guideline of 10-6 and thus negligible for all the studied subjects, but WHO health-based guideline level of 10-5 was exceeded (9-44 times) at all fire corporations. These results thus show that even during non-fire situations firefighters are exposed to PAHs at levels that may promote some adverse health outcomes; therefore the respective occupational exposures to these compounds should be carefully controlled.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at fire stations: firefighters' exposure monitoring and biomonitoring, and assessment of the contribution to total internal dose.

This work characterizes levels of eighteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the breathing air zone of firefighters during their regular work shift at eight Portuguese fire stations, and the firefighters' total internal dose by six urinary monohydroxyl metabolites (OH-PAHs). Total PAHs (ΣPAHs) concentrations varied widely (46.4-428ng/m3), mainly due to site specificity (urban/rural) and characteristics (age and layout) of buildings. Airborne PAHs with 2-3 rings were the most abundant (63.9-95.7% ΣPAHs). Similarly, urinary 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 1-hydroxyacenaphthene were the predominant metabolites (66-96% ΣOH-PAHs). Naphthalene contributed the most to carcinogenic ΣPAHs (39.4-78.1%) in majority of firehouses; benzo[a]pyrene, the marker of carcinogenic PAHs, accounted with 1.5-10%. Statistically positive significant correlations (r≥0.733, p≤0.025) were observed between ΣPAHs and urinary ΣOH-PAHs for firefighters of four fire stations suggesting that, at these sites, indoor air was their major exposure source of PAHs. Firefighter's personal exposure to PAHs at Portuguese fire stations were well below the existent occupational exposure limits. Also, the quantified concentrations of post-shift urinary 1-hydroxypyrene in all firefighters were clearly lower than the benchmark level (0.5µmol/mol) recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.