What do we know about plastic pollution in Brazilian aquatic ecosystems?

Due to the increasing use and inadequate disposal of plastic by humans, aquatic environments have become receptacles for pollutants such as plastic. This study aimed to perform an analysis of plastic particles pollution in Brazilian aquatic ecosystems with special attention to inland aquatic environments and fish in order to identify information gaps in this field. Manuscripts published in the last 21 years and indexed in the Web of Science database were consulted. A total of 185 met the proposed inclusion criteria, such as having empirical data, being conducted in Brazil, and dealing with plastic pollution. In general, the number of studies increases over the years, and this increasing number of publications is accompanied by declared financial support; the Southeast and Northeast regions are the regions that publish the most on the topic, with São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Pernambuco being the main states; the main focus of the studies is the detection of plastic particles mainly in biota (51%) and sediment (34%), and the most frequent ecosystem is the marine (89%); regarding the taxa, the majority is about plastic detection in fish (75%). Only 18% of the papers studying fishes consider their bio-ecological data, and only 17% of the manuscripts carried out the chemical characterization of the particles. However, 99% of the papers considered the shape of the plastic particle. We emphasize the need for more research and grants for studies with Brazilian inland aquatic ecosystems on the effects of plastic particle pollution on freshwater fish. Regional and national research funding agencies are very important to encourage an increase in the number of grants and specific calls for studies on plastic pollution and its impact on freshwater biota, considering the different macro-regions in Brazil, especially in the northern region.

Fugulin scale for classifying pediatric patients in a respiratory inpatient unit: experience report.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of the Fugulin scale to classify pediatric patients hospitalized in a respiratory unit as a subsidy for the allocation of human resources given the increase in cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. METHOD: Experience report conducted in a children's hospital in the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba with data collection from medical records and approved by the Institution and by the Research Ethics Committee. RESULTS: Between February and May 2022, the percentage of patients categorized in minimal and intermediate care decreased by 53 and 11.4%, respectively, while those in high dependency and semi-intensive care expanded by 31.2 and 84.2%. In addition, in just four months, there was a considerable increase in the positivity of virologies compared to the twelve months of 2021. The susceptibility of children to the development of severe respiratory infection was proven through the decrease in virologies with undetectable results. CONCLUSION: The results obtained allowed us to conclude there was a significant increase in the complexity of patients admitted to the respiratory unit, showing it is essential to provide a nursing team compatible with the care needs.

Ação da própolis no manejo de lesões não infecciosas em cavidade oral: uma revisão integrativa / The effects of Propolis in the management of non-infectious lesions in the oral cavity: an integrative review

ntrodução: a própolis é um produto natural que apresenta inúmeras propriedades terapêuticas, dentre elas a ação cicatrizante e anti-inflamatória. Diversos estudos têm sugerido o seu emprego no manejo da mucosite oral (MO) e de lesões ulceradas em mucosa bucal. A MO é uma inflamação da mucosa oral, resultante do tratamento quimio e/ou radioterápico. Já as lesões ulceradas caracterizam-se como um distúrbio ulcerativo inflamatório doloroso. Objetivo: discutir a ação da própolis sobre a prevenção e cicatrização de lesões de origem não infecciosa que acometem a cavidade oral. Metodologia: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura em que foram utilizadas as bases de dados LILACS, PubMed, SciELO e Cochrane, por meio do cruzamento dos descritores em português: "própolis", "úlceras orais" e "mucosite oral"; e em inglês: "propolis", "oral ulcer" e "mucositis". Os seguintes critérios de inclusão foram estabelecidos: ensaios clínicos e revisões sistemáticas, na íntegra, escritos em inglês ou português, entre 2005 e 2018, que utilizaram a própolis de forma tópica ou sistêmica. Resultados: foram incluídos um total de 10 estudos, onde 2 abordaram o uso da própolis em úlceras orais e 8 tiveram como foco a aplicação deste agente no manejo da MO. Quanto ao desfecho, a aplicação da própolis na mucosite se mostrou eficaz em 7 dos 8 estudos. Já se tratando de úlceras orais, a administração deste agente foi efetiva nos 2 estudos. Conclusão: os estudos analisados demostraram que a própolis apresenta propriedades capazes de favorecer a prevenção e cicatrização de lesões de MO e úlceras orais.

Introduction: propolis is a natural product that has numerous therapeutic properties, including healing and anti-inflammatory action. Several studies have suggested its use in the management of oral mucositis (OM) and ulcerated lesions in the oral mucosa. OM is an inflammation of the oral mucosa resulting from chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Whereas ulcerated lesions are characterized as a painful inflammatory ulcerative disorder. Objective: to discuss the action of propolis on the prevention and healing of non-infectious lesions that affect the oral cavity. Methodology: this is an integrative literature review in which LILACS, PubMed, SciELO and Cochrane databases were used, by crossing descriptors in Portuguese: "própolis", "úlceras orais" and "mucosite oral"; and in English: "propolis", "oral ulcer" and "mucositis". The following inclusion criteria were established: clinical trials and systematic reviews, in full, written in English or Portuguese, between 2005 and 2018, which used propolis topically or systemically. Results: a total of 10 studies were included, where 2 addressed the use of propolis in oral ulcers and 8 focused on the application of this agent in the management of OM. As for the outcome, the application of propolis in mucositis proved to be effective in 7 of the 8 studies. As for oral ulcers, the administration of this agent was effective in both studies. Conclusion: the analysed studies demonstrated that propolis has properties capable of help the prevention and healing of OM lesions and oral ulcers.

Effect of Chain Extending Cross-Linkers on the Disintegration Behavior of Composted PBAT/PLA Blown Films.

A biodegradable blend of PBAT-poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)-and PLA-poly(lactic acid)-for blown film extrusion was modified with four multi-functional chain extending cross-linkers (CECL). The anisotropic morphology introduced during film blowing affects the degradation processes. Given that two CECL increased the melt flow rate (MFR) of tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphite (V1) and 1,3-phenylenebisoxazoline (V2) and the other two reduced it (aromatic polycarbodiimide (V3) and poly(4,4-dicyclohexylmethanecarbodiimide) (V4)), their compost (bio-)disintegration behavior was investigated. It was significantly altered with respect to the unmodified reference blend (REF). The disintegration behavior at 30 and 60 °C was investigated by determining changes in mass, Young's moduli, tensile strengths, elongations at break and thermal properties. In order to quantify the disintegration behavior, the hole areas of blown films were evaluated after compost storage at 60 °C to calculate the kinetics of the time dependent degrees of disintegration. The kinetic model of disintegration provides two parameters: initiation time and disintegration time. They quantify the effects of the CECL on the disintegration behavior of the PBAT/PLA compound. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed a pronounced annealing effect during storage in compost at 30 °C, as well as the occurrence of an additional step-like increase in the heat flow at 75 °C after storage at 60 °C. The disintegration consists of processes which affect amorphous and crystalline phase of PBAT in different manner that cannot be understood by a hydrolytic chain degradation only. Furthermore, gel permeation chromatography (GPC) revealed molecular degradation only at 60 °C for the REF and V1 after 7 days of compost storage. The observed losses of mass and cross-sectional area seem to be attributed more to mechanical decay than to molecular degradation for the given compost storage times.

Seasonal arsenic in catfish (Siluriformes, Ariidae) and the hydrochemical conditions of two areas in a Ramsar site on the Brazilian coast.

The construction of a data bank concerning metal and metalloid content of bioindicator fish from coastal areas is very important as it can help environmental managers in decision making. In natural conditions, the concentration of elements can be influenced by abiotic parameters such as water salinity. In this study, catfish Cathorops spixii were evaluated concerning the total arsenic (As) concentration in the muscle tissues of individuals subjected to different abiotic conditions in the Cananéia-Iguape Estuarine-Lagoon Complex (CIELC), which was recently included on the Ramsar list of wetlands of international importance. Seventy-four catfish were seasonally caught in the northern and southern regions of the CIELC and their hydrochemical parameters were obtained. C. spixii from the southern, best preserved, area showed arsenic concentrations around ten times higher than the maximum limit established for fish intended for human consumption. However, these high concentrations of arsenic could be associated with the abiotic parameters of the water, such as salinity variations, in this area.

Evaluation of dual application of photodynamic therapy-PDT in Candida albicans.

This study aimed to evaluate, in vitro, the efficacy of photodynamic therapy - PDT using dimethyl methylene blue zinc chloride double salt (DMMB) and red LED light on planktonic cultures of Candida albicans. The tests were performed using the ATCC 90,028 strain grown at 37 °C for 24 h, according to a growth curve of C. albicans. The colonies were resuspended in sterile saline adjusted to a concentration of 2 × 108 cells / mL, with three experimental protocols being tested (Protocol 1, 2 and 3) with a fixed concentration of 750 ɳg/mL obtained through the IC50, and energy density 20 J/cm2. Protocol 1 was carried out using conventional PDT, Protocol 2 was applied double PDT in a single session, and Protocol 3 was applied double PDT in two sessions with a 24 h interval. The results showed logarithmic reductions of 3 (4.252575 ± 0.068526) and 4 logs (2.669533 ± 0.058592) of total fungal load in protocols 3 and 2 respectively in comparison to the Control (6.633547 ± 0.065384). Our results indicated that double application in a single session of PDT was the most effective approach for inhibiting the proliferation of Candida albicans (99.991% inhibition).

Alzheimer's Disease: Innovative Therapeutic Approaches Based on Peptides and Nanoparticles.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the main cause of dementia in the world and its etiology is not yet fully understood. The pathology of AD is primarily characterized by intracellular neurofibrillary tangles and extracellular amyloid-ß plaques. Unfortunately, few treatment options are available, and most treat symptoms, as is the case of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (IAChE) and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists. For more than 20 years pharmaceutical research has targeted the "amyloid cascade hypothesis," but this has not produced meaningful results, leading researchers to focus now on other characteristics of the disease and on multitarget approaches. This review aims to evaluate some new treatments that are being developed and studied. Among these are new treatments based on peptides, which have high selectivity and low toxicity; however, these compounds have a short half-life and encounter challenges when crossing the blood-brain barrier. The present review discusses up-and-coming peptides tested as treatments and explores some nanotechnological strategies to overcome the downsides. These compounds are promising, as they not only act on the symptoms but also aim to prevent progressive neuronal loss.

Fugulin scale for classifying pediatric patients in a respiratory inpatient unit: experience report / Escala de Fugulin para la clasificación de pacientes pediátricos en una unidad de hospitalización respiratoria: relato de experiencia / Escala de Fugulin para classificação de pacientes pediátricos em unidade de internação respiratória: relato de experiência

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the use of the Fugulin scale to classify pediatric patients hospitalized in a respiratory unit as a subsidy for the allocation of human resources given the increase in cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. Method: Experience report conducted in a children's hospital in the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba with data collection from medical records and approved by the Institution and by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Between February and May 2022, the percentage of patients categorized in minimal and intermediate care decreased by 53 and 11.4%, respectively, while those in high dependency and semi-intensive care expanded by 31.2 and 84.2%. In addition, in just four months, there was a considerable increase in the positivity of virologies compared to the twelve months of 2021. The susceptibility of children to the development of severe respiratory infection was proven through the decrease in virologies with undetectable results. Conclusion: The results obtained allowed us to conclude there was a significant increase in the complexity of patients admitted to the respiratory unit, showing it is essential to provide a nursing team compatible with the care needs.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir el uso de la escala de Fugulin para la clasificación de pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados en una unidad respiratoria como subsidio para la asignación de recursos humanos, ante el aumento de casos de Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo Grave. Método: Relato de experiencia con recolección de datos de registros médicos, realizado en un hospital infantil de la región metropolitana de Curitiba, aprobado por la Institución y por el Comité de Ética en Investigación con Seres Humanos. Resultados: Entre febrero y mayo de 2022, el porcentaje de pacientes categorizados en cuidados mínimos e intermedios disminuyó en 53 y 11,4%, respectivamente, mientras que los de alta dependencia y cuidados semiintensivos se expandieron a un 31,2 y un 84,2%. Además, en tan solo cuatro meses se registró un aumento considerable de la positividad de virologías respecto a los doce meses de 2021. Se comprobó la susceptibilidad de los niños al desarrollo de infección respiratoria grave a través de la disminución de virologías con resultados indetectables. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos permitieron concluir que hubo un aumento significativo en la complejidad de los pacientes ingresados en la unidad respiratoria, demostrando que es fundamental disponer de un equipo de enfermería compatible con las necesidades asistenciales.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever sobre a utilização da escala de Fugulin para classificação de pacientes pediátricos internados em uma unidade respiratória como subsídio para a alocação de recursos humanos, diante do aumento de casos de Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave. Método: Relato de experiência com coleta de dados em prontuário, realizado em um hospital infantil da região metropolitana de Curitiba, aprovado pela Instituição e pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com Seres Humanos. Resultados: Entre fevereiro a maio de 2022, a porcentagem dos pacientes categorizados em cuidados mínimos e intermediários decaiu em 53 e 11,4%, respectivamente, ao passo que os de cuidados de alta dependência e semi-intensivos expandiram 31,2 e 84,2%. Além disso, em apenas quatro meses, houve aumento considerável na positividade das virologias em comparação aos doze meses de 2021. A suscetibilidade das crianças ao desenvolvimento de infecção respiratória grave foi comprovada através da diminuição de virologias com resultados não detectáveis. Conclusão: Os resultados obtidos permitiram concluir que houve um aumento expressivo da complexidade dos pacientes admitidos na unidade respiratória, sendo essencial o provimento de equipe de enfermagem compatível com as necessidades de cuidados.

Conhecimento e atitudes de indivíduos leigos sobre avulsão de dentes permanentes / Knowledge and atitudes of lay individuals about avulsion of permanente teeth / Conocimientos y actitudes de los legos sobre la avulsión de los dientes permanentes

Introdução: A avulsão dentária é caracterizada pelo deslocamento total do elemento dentário para fora do alvéolo em decorrência de um trauma externo e as medidas emergenciais prestadas ainda no local do acidente são imprescindíveis para um bom prognóstico. Objetivo: Investigou-se o nível de conhecimento e atitudes de leigos sobre possíveis condutas frente à avulsão de dentes permanentes. Métodos: A coleta de dados foi realizada a partir de um questionário contendo perguntas sobre características gerais da lesão e as atitudes que os pacientes tomariam em um caso de avulsão. Os dados foram analisados pelo teste de Mann Whitney, considerando um nível de significância de 5% (p <0,05). Resultados: Questionários foram respondidos por 120 pacientes enquanto aguardavam atendimento. A média geral de respostas corretas / atitudes esperadas foi de 3,74. Os participantes que possuíam informação prévia acerca do tema, obtiveram médias significativamente maiores, o mesmo não foi verificado com aqueles que possuíam experiência prévia com trauma. Conclusão: Conclui-se que o conhecimento sobre avulsão dentária dos pacientes é baixo e que a educação em saúde, através da informação da população pode ser um fator relevante para a melhora da conduta emergencial no local do trauma pela população leiga... (AU)

Introduction: Tooth avulsion is characterized by the total displacement of the tooth out of the socket as a result of an external trauma and emergency measures provided at the accident site are essential for a good prognosis. Objective: We investigated the level of knowledge and attitudes of lay people about possible behaviors in the face of avulsion of permanent teeth. Methods: Data collection was performed using a questionnaire containing questions about general characteristics of the lesion and the attitudes that patients would take in a case of avulsion. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney test, considering a significance level of 5% (p <0,05). Results: Questionnaires were answered by 120 patients while waiting for care. The overall average of correct answers/expected attitudes was 3.74. Participants who had previous information on the subject had significantly higher averages, the same was not verified with those who had previous experience with trauma. Conclusion: It is concluded that the knowledge about dental avulsion of patients is low and that health education, through population information can be a relevant factor for the improvement of emergency management at the trauma site by the lay population... (AU)

Introducción: La avulsión dentaria se caracteriza por el desplazamiento total del diente fuera del alvéolo como consecuencia de un traumatismo externo y las medidas de urgencia en el lugar del accidente son fundamentales para un buen pronóstico. Objetivo: Indagamos el nivel de conocimientos y actitudes de los legos sobre posibles comportamientos ante la avulsión de dientes permanentes. Métodos: La recolección de datos se realizó mediante un cuestionario que contenía preguntas sobre las características generales de la lesión y las actitudes que tomarían los pacientes en caso de avulsión. Los datos fueron analizados mediante la prueba de Mann-Whitney, considerando un nivel de significación del 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: Los cuestionarios fueron respondidos por 120 pacientes en espera de atención. La media global de aciertos/ actitudes esperadas fue de 3,74. Los participantes que tenían información previa sobre el tema tuvieron promedios significativamente más altos, lo mismo no se verificó con aquellos que tenían experiencia previa con el trauma. Conclusión: Se concluye que el conocimiento sobre la avulsión dentaria de los pacientes es bajo y que la educación en salud, a través de la información poblacional, puede ser un factor relevante para la mejora del manejo de la emergencia en el sitio del trauma por parte de la población no especializada... (AU)

Avaliação da composição e rotulagem de fotoprotetores labiais comercializados em farmácias / Evaluation of the composition and labeling of lip photo protectors marketed in pharmacies

Introdução: os efeitos deletérios da radiação ultravioleta (UV) sobre os tecidos labiais podem desencadear diversas lesões, inclusive de caráter maligno. A utilização de produtos fotoprotetores tem sido a melhor opção contra os efeitos nocivos dessa radiação. Diversas marcas de fotoprotetores labiais (FPL) estão disponíveis no mercado, onde o consumo é diretamente influenciado por qualidade e preço. Objetivo: analisar e comparar FPLs disponíveis em farmácias quanto à composição, ao preço e às características de rotulagem, segundo regulamentações da ANVISA. Metodologia: foi realizado estudo descritivo, que avaliou FPLs, quanto a FPS, indicação, constituintes químicos, FPUVA, preço e rótulo. Informações sobre as substâncias presentes e suas funções foram obtidas no INCI (Comissão Europeia), e os filtros solares foram identificados na INN (Organização Mundial da Saúde). As avaliações de rotulagem foram baseadas nas Resoluções da Diretoria Colegiada da ANVISA de nº 30/12, nº 7/15 e nº 69/16. Resultados: dezessete FPLs foram avaliados. Cinco apresentaram FPS 15; três, FPS 20; seis, FPS 30; e três, FPS 50. Dez filtros UV foram identificados, estando o Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate presente em maior número de FPLs. Doze produtos informaram ter proteção UVA. As características dos rótulos se encontravam dentro das determinações da ANVISA, na grande maioria dos casos. Houve alta variação do preço. Conclusão: a partir deste estudo, foi possível conhecer mais sobre a composição e as características dos FPL, principalmente sobre FPS e FPUVA, bem como se estão de acordo com as normas estabelecidas pela ANVISA, propiciando um maior conhecimento dos produtos que estão sendo comercializados.

Introduction: the deleterious effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on lip tissues can trigger several lesions, including malignant ones. The use of photoprotective products has been the best option against the harmful effects of this radiation. Several brands of lip sunscreens (FPL) are available on the market, where consumption is directly influenced by quality and price. Objective: to analyze and compare SPFs available in pharmacies in terms of composition, price and labeling characteristics, according to ANVISA regulations. Methodology: a descriptive study was carried out, which evaluated FPLs, in terms of SPF, indication, chemical constituents, PPD, price and label. Information on the substances present and their functions were obtained from the INCI (European Commission), and the sunscreens were identified from the INN (World Health Organization). The labeling evaluations were based on the Resolutions of the Collegiate Board of Directors of ANVISA No. 30/12, No. 7/15 and No. 69/16. Results: seventeen FPLs were evaluated. Five had SPF 15; three, SPF 20; six, SPF 30; and three, SPF 50. Ten UV filters were identified, with Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate present in the highest number of FPLs. Twelve products reported having UV protection. The characteristics of the labels were within the determinations of ANVISA, in the vast majority of cases. There was a high price variation. Conclusion: from this study, it was possible to know more about the composition and characteristics of FPL, mainly about SPF and UV, as well as whether they are in accordance with the standards established by ANVISA, providing a greater knowledge of the products that are being marketed.

Effectiveness of the internet-based Unified Protocol transdiagnostic intervention for the treatment of depression, anxiety and related disorders in a primary care setting: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Research has shown that internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) can be a very promising solution to increase access to and the dissemination of evidence-based treatments to all of the population in need. However, iCBT is still underutilized in clinical contexts, such as primary care. In order to achieve the effective implementation of these protocols, more studies in ecological settings are needed. The Unified Protocol (UP) is a transdiagnostic CBT protocol for the treatment of emotional disorders, which includes depression, anxiety and related disorders, that has shown its efficacy across different contexts and populations. An internet-based UP (iUP) programme has recently been developed as an emerging internet-based treatment for emotional disorders. However, the internet-delivered version of the UP (iUP) has not yet been examined empirically. The current project seeks to analyse the effectiveness of the iUP as a treatment for depression, anxiety and related emotional disorders in a primary care public health setting. METHODS: The current study will employ a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial design. Participants will be randomly assigned to (a) the internet-based Unified Protocol (iUP), or (b) enhanced waiting list control (eWLC). Randomization will follow a 2:1 allocation ratio, with sample size calculations suggesting a required sample of 120 (iUP=80; eWLC=40). The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) will be used for assessing potential participants. The Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS) and the Overall Depression Severity and Impairment Scale (ODSIS) as well as other standardized questionnaires will be used for assessments at baseline, 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks from baseline and for the iUP condition during the follow-up. DISCUSSION: Combining the advantages of a transdiagnostic treatment with an online delivery format may have the potential to significantly lower the burden of emotional disorders in public health primary care setting. Anxiety and depression, often comorbid, are the most prevalent psychological disorders in primary care. Because the iUP allows for the treatment of different disorders and comorbidity, this treatment could represent an adequate choice for patients that demand mental health care in a primary care setting. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN18056450 https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN18056450 .

Process-Induced Morphology of Poly(Butylene Adipate Terephthalate)/Poly(Lactic Acid) Blown Extrusion Films Modified with Chain-Extending Cross-Linkers.

Process-induced changes in the morphology of biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA) blends modified with various multifunctional chain-extending cross-linkers (CECLs) are presented. The morphology of unmodified and modified films produced with blown film extrusion is examined in an extrusion direction (ED) and a transverse direction (TD). While FTIR analysis showed only small peak shifts indicating that the CECLs modify the molecular weight of the PBAT/PLA blend, SEM investigations of the fracture surfaces of blown extrusion films revealed their significant effect on the morphology formed during the processing. Due to the combined shear and elongation deformation during blown film extrusion, rather spherical PLA islands were partly transformed into long fibrils, which tended to decay to chains of elliptical islands if cooled slowly. The CECL introduction into the blend changed the thickness of the PLA fibrils, modified the interface adhesion, and altered the deformation behavior of the PBAT matrix from brittle to ductile. The results proved that CECLs react selectively with PBAT, PLA, and their interface. Furthermore, the reactions of CECLs with PBAT/PLA induced by the processing depended on the deformation directions (ED and TD), thus resulting in further non-uniformities of blown extrusion films.

Anxiety/fear of dental treatment during pregnancy: use of the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale.

BACKGROUND: Despite advances in the control of anxiety and fear, dental treatment (DT) continues to be a stressful event, especially during pregnancy. There are several instruments to measure anxiety and fear about DT (AFDT). However, few are validated for use in Brazil. Our objective was to validate the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) for use in Brazil and to evaluate the association between AFDT and the use of oral health services (OHS) during pregnancy. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study nested in a prospective cohort. We conducted a face, content, and construct validation. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was the comparison instrument with MDAS. Sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics were also assessed. Associations were estimated by odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) in multiple logistic regression analysis (alpha = 5%). RESULTS: There were no difficulties in the translation/back-translation process. The reproducibility of the instrument was 0.54 (P=0.01). The correlation of MDAS with VAS was 0.71 (P=0.003). The reliability of the instrument was high (Cronbach's alpha: 0.79 to 0.87). After validation, the instrument was administered to 486 women. Mild or moderate AFDT was reported by 81.3% of pregnant women and at higher levels, by 8.2%. There was no association between the use of OHS and AFDT at moderate levels (OR=2.03; 95%CI: 0.45-9.09) or high (OR=1.35; 95%CI: 0.20-9.13). CONCLUSIONS: MDAS is a valid instrument for measuring AFDT. The prevalence of AFDT among pregnant women is high, but this event does not seem to be associated with the use of OHS.

Current knowledge, challenges, new perspectives of the study, and treatments of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Over the past 70 years, the understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) improved greatly and is characterized as a heterogeneous neuropsychiatric syndrome. ASD is characterized by difficulties in social communication, restricted and repetitive behavior, interests, or activities. And it is often described as a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. There are many treatments and approaches to ASD, including pharmacological therapies with antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood regulators, stimulants, and behavioral ones. However, no treatment is capable of reverting ASD. This review provides an overview of animal models of autism. We summarized genetic and environmental models and then valproic acid treatment as a useful model for ASD. As well as the main therapies and approaches used in the treatment, relating them to the neurochemical pathways altered in ASD, emphasizing the pharmacological potential of peptides and bioinspired compounds found in animal venoms as a possible future treatment for ASD.

The Effects of Chain-Extending Cross-Linkers on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Poly(butylene adipate terephthalate)/Poly(lactic acid) Blown Films.

This study investigates the effects of four multifunctional chain-extending cross-linkers (CECL) on the processability, mechanical performance, and structure of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA) blends produced using film blowing technology. The newly developed reference compound (M·VERA® B5029) and the CECL modified blends are characterized with respect to the initial properties and the corresponding properties after aging at 50 °C for 1 and 2 months. The tensile strength, seal strength, and melt volume rate (MVR) are markedly changed after thermal aging, whereas the storage modulus, elongation at the break, and tear resistance remain constant. The degradation of the polymer chains and crosslinking with increased and decreased MVR, respectively, is examined thoroughly with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), with the results indicating that the CECL-modified blends do not generally endure thermo-oxidation over time. Further, DSC measurements of 25 µm and 100 µm films reveal that film blowing pronouncedly changes the structures of the compounds. These findings are also confirmed by dynamic mechanical analysis, with the conclusion that tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphite barely affects the glass transition temperature, while with the other changes in CECL are seen. Cross-linking is found for aromatic polycarbodiimide and poly(4,4-dicyclohexylmethanecarbodiimide) CECL after melting of granules and films, although overall the most synergetic effect of the CECL is shown by 1,3-phenylenebisoxazoline.

Organotropism of total mercury (THg) in Cichla pinima, ecological aspects and human consumption in fish from Amazon region, Brazil.

Specimens of the Cichla pinima are of ecological and economic importance in the Amazon region and are a good bioindicator species of Hg bioaccumulation. Adult specimens of Cichla pinima were obtained by fisheries in the Tapajós river region's impacted gold mining area. Tissues such as muscle, liver, skin, and gill were submitted for total mercury (THg) analysis. For hepatic bioavailability, assays were carried out in the whole liver and in the sub-cellular hepatic fraction. The weight-length relationship showed an equation of W = 2E - 06L3.3002 (R2 = 0.856) indicating an allometric growth. The mean THg values found in the muscle tissue of 676 ± 258 µg kg-1 were below the maximum limit established for human consumption, but were similar to Cichla fish from other areas impacted by Hg in the Amazon region. The trends of levels in the tissues were as follows: liver>muscle>gonads>skin>gill, with no significant differences between the gills and skin. A significant and positive correlation as rs = 0.65 was obtained between the THg contents in cytosolic fraction and the total hepatic THg (liver homogenate). However, only 7% of the THg were found and were available to the sub-cellular hepatic fraction. This profile can be an indicative of a hepatic cellular transference in fish exposed to high Hg levels in the Amazon region now that low concentrations of Hg have been found in the sub-cellular fraction. However, data of differential THg partition in the subcellular compartments should be considered, since others' hepatic fractions can act in the Hg linkage into the cell.

Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Gram-Negative Bacteria Recovered From an Amazonian Lake Near the City of Belém, Brazil.

Aquatic systems have been described as antibiotic resistance reservoirs, where water may act as a vehicle for the spread of resistant bacteria and resistance genes. We evaluated the occurrence and diversity of third generation cephalosporin-resistant gram-negative bacteria in a lake in the Amazonia region. This water is used for human activities, including consumption after appropriate treatment. Eighteen samples were obtained from six sites in October 2014. Water quality parameters were generally within the legislation limits. Thirty-three bacterial isolates were identified as Escherichia (n = 7 isolates), Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, and Klebsiella (n = 5 each), Pseudomonas (n = 4), Shigella (n = 3), and Chromobacterium, Citrobacter, Leclercia, Phytobacter (1 isolate each). Twenty nine out of 33 isolates (88%) were resistant to most beta-lactams, except carbapenems, and 88% (n = 29) were resistant to antibiotics included in at least three different classes. Among the beta-lactamase genes inspected, the bla CTX-M was the most prevalent (n = 12 positive isolates), followed by bla TEM (n = 5) and bla SHV (n = 4). bla CTX-M-15 (n = 5), bla CTX-M-14 (n = 1) and bla CTX-M-2 (n = 1) variants were detected in conserved genomic contexts: bla CTX-M-15 flanked by ISEcp1 and Orf477; bla CTX-M-14 flanked by ISEcp1 and IS903; and bla CTX-M-2 associated to an ISCR element. For 4 strains the transfer of bla CTX-M was confirmed by conjugation assays. Compared with the recipient, the transconjugants showed more than 500-fold increases in the MICs of cefotaxime and 16 to 32-fold increases in the MICs of ceftazidime. Two isolates (Escherichia coli APC43A and Acinetobacter baumannii APC25) were selected for whole genome analysis. APC43A was predicted as a E. coli pathogen of the high-risk clone ST471 and serotype O154:H18. bla CTX-M-15 as well as determinants related to efflux of antibiotics, were noted in APC43A genome. A. baumannii APC25 was susceptible to carbapenems and antibiotic resistance genes detected in its genome were intrinsic determinants (e.g., bla OXA-208 and bla ADC-like). The strain was not predicted as a human pathogen and belongs to a new sequence type. Operons related to metal resistance were predicted in both genomes as well as pathogenicity and resistance islands. Results suggest a high dissemination of ESBL-producing bacteria in Lake Água Preta which, although not presenting characteristics of a strongly impacted environment, contains multi-drug resistant pathogenic strains.

[Characterization of oral maxillofacial lesions resulting from physical aggression: differences between genders]. / Caracterização de lesões bucomaxilofaciais decorrentes de agressão física: diferenças entre gênero.

In developed countries, violence is the main cause of oral maxillofacial (OMF) injuries. In Brazil, there are scant records of such lesions. The scope of this study was to detail the OMF injuries resulting from physical aggression in a capital of the Brazilian northeast and analyze gender differences. The Forensic Medicine Institute of São Luís, state of Maranhão, featured 15,847 reports, which occurred in 2012, and they were investigated. Socioeconomic, demographic data and OMF characteristics were analyzed. The Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests were applied to assess gender differences. Of the cases examined, 1977 were OMF. Female victims, aged 20-59, dark-skinned, without a partner and maids were the most affected. Ecchymosis-type lesions, in the mouth and lip regions arising from the use of blunt instruments, causing permanent functional impairment, were the most prevalent in women (P < 0.05), whereas dental fracture and contusion arising from sharp instruments causing permanent deformity, occupational disability, and threat to life were detected in men (P < 0.05). The conclusion drawn is that the incidence of OMF due to physical aggression is high in São Luís, state of Maranhão, and although women are the most affected, the OMF in men are more severe.

Em países desenvolvidos, a violência é a principal causa de lesões bucomaxilofaciais (LBMF). No Brasil, há poucas evidências sobre tais lesões. Objetivou-se caracterizar as LBMF resultantes de agressão física em uma capital do nordeste brasileiro e analisar diferenças entre gêneros. Foram investigados 15.847 laudos do Instituto Médico Legal de São Luís/MA, ocorridos em 2012. Coletaram-se dados socioeconômicos, demográficos e características das LBMF. Utilizaram-se os testes Qui-quadrado e Exato de Fisher para avaliar diferenças entre gêneros. Dos casos periciados, 1977 eram LBMF. Vítimas do sexo feminino, com 20-59 anos de idade, cor parda, sem companheiro e empregadas foram mais afetadas. Lesões do tipo equimose, nas regiões bucinadora e labial, decorrentes do uso de instrumentos contundentes, ocasionando debilidade funcional permanente foram mais incidentes em mulheres (P < 0,05), ao passo que fratura dental, ferida contusa e perfurocontusa, decorrentes de instrumentos cortantes e perfurocontundentes, ocasionando deformidade permanente, incapacidade ocupacional e perigo de vida, em homens (P < 0,05). Conclui-se que a incidência de LBMF decorrente de agressão física é alta em São Luís, MA, e, embora as mulheres sejam mais acometidas, as LBMF em homens são mais severas.

Caracterização de lesões bucomaxilofaciais decorrentes de agressão física: diferenças entre gênero / Characterization of oral maxillofacial lesions resulting from physical aggression: differences between genders

Resumo Em países desenvolvidos, a violência é a principal causa de lesões bucomaxilofaciais (LBMF). No Brasil, há poucas evidências sobre tais lesões. Objetivou-se caracterizar as LBMF resultantes de agressão física em uma capital do nordeste brasileiro e analisar diferenças entre gêneros. Foram investigados 15.847 laudos do Instituto Médico Legal de São Luís/MA, ocorridos em 2012. Coletaram-se dados socioeconômicos, demográficos e características das LBMF. Utilizaram-se os testes Qui-quadrado e Exato de Fisher para avaliar diferenças entre gêneros. Dos casos periciados, 1977 eram LBMF. Vítimas do sexo feminino, com 20-59 anos de idade, cor parda, sem companheiro e empregadas foram mais afetadas. Lesões do tipo equimose, nas regiões bucinadora e labial, decorrentes do uso de instrumentos contundentes, ocasionando debilidade funcional permanente foram mais incidentes em mulheres (P < 0,05), ao passo que fratura dental, ferida contusa e perfurocontusa, decorrentes de instrumentos cortantes e perfurocontundentes, ocasionando deformidade permanente, incapacidade ocupacional e perigo de vida, em homens (P < 0,05). Conclui-se que a incidência de LBMF decorrente de agressão física é alta em São Luís, MA, e, embora as mulheres sejam mais acometidas, as LBMF em homens são mais severas.

Abstract In developed countries, violence is the main cause of oral maxillofacial (OMF) injuries. In Brazil, there are scant records of such lesions. The scope of this study was to detail the OMF injuries resulting from physical aggression in a capital of the Brazilian northeast and analyze gender differences. The Forensic Medicine Institute of São Luís, state of Maranhão, featured 15,847 reports, which occurred in 2012, and they were investigated. Socioeconomic, demographic data and OMF characteristics were analyzed. The Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests were applied to assess gender differences. Of the cases examined, 1977 were OMF. Female victims, aged 20-59, dark-skinned, without a partner and maids were the most affected. Ecchymosis-type lesions, in the mouth and lip regions arising from the use of blunt instruments, causing permanent functional impairment, were the most prevalent in women (P < 0.05), whereas dental fracture and contusion arising from sharp instruments causing permanent deformity, occupational disability, and threat to life were detected in men (P < 0.05). The conclusion drawn is that the incidence of OMF due to physical aggression is high in São Luís, state of Maranhão, and although women are the most affected, the OMF in men are more severe.

Bioaccumulation of Total Mercury (THg) in Catfish (Siluriformes, Ariidae) with Different Sexual Maturity from Cananéia-Iguape Estuary, SP, Brazil.

In order to improve the knowledge of total mercury (THg) bioaccumulation in bioindicator species of sea catfish (Siluriformes, Ariidae) and taking into account the relatively recent approach with respect to estuarine fish on the Brazilian coast, 65 individuals were caught in the northern and southern regions of the Cananeia estuary to determine the concentration of the THg in muscles, gills, gonads and kidney of the Cathorops spixii and Genidens genidens specimens. The difference in the THg accumulation associated to the maturity of the catfish reflects a differential metabolism regarding THg bioaccumulation in adults (males and females) and juveniles. These observations reinforce the importance of considering the maturity of the individual in order to understand the bioaccumulation and metabolism of fish under different environmental stress and conditions. Furthermore, abiotic conditions such as salinity should be evaluated in association with metabolic/biological conditions of the fish's bioindicators, especially in environments with large natural or anthropogenic transition gradients.