O armário: Fruiting phenology data for 4,462 plant taxa in Portugal (1926-2013).

Species phenology - the timing of key life events - is being altered by ongoing climate changes with yet underappreciated consequences for ecosystem stability. While flowering is generally occurring earlier, we know much less about other key processes such as the time of fruit ripening, largely due to the lack of comprehensive long-term datasets. Here we provide information on the exact date and site where seeds of 4,462 taxa were collected for the Index Seminum (seed exchange catalogue) of the Botanic Garden of the University of Coimbra, between 1926 and 2013. Seeds were collected from spontaneous and cultivated individuals across Portugal, including both native and introduced taxa. The database consists of 127,747 curated records with information on the species, or infraspecific taxa (including authority), and the day and site where seeds were collected. All records are georeferenced and provided with a confidence interval for the collection site. Taxonomy was first curated manually by in-house botanists and then harmonized according to the GBIF backbone taxonomy.

"EU QUERO me exercitar": as controversas recomendações para a atividade física em site do Ministério da Saúde / "I WANT to exercise": the controversial recommendations for physical activity on the Ministry of Health website

Resumo Este artigo tem o objetivo de analisar os conteúdos sobre atividade física veiculados no site Saúde Brasil, do Ministério da Saúde, no período entre 2017-2020, descrevendo-os e discutindo as interfaces (in)existentes entre os materiais publicados e o campo da Educação Física e Saúde Coletiva. Por meio de ferramentas netnográficas foram localizadas 98 publicações que dialogam com atividade física/exercício físico/prática corporal, veiculadas durante quatro anos. Pode-se observar que a vertente comportamental da promoção da saúde permeia todo o material, sendo admitidas três perspectivas de recomendações para a prática de atividade física: esportivizada, atividade física diária e generalizada. São analisados e refletidos esses enfoques, juntamente com a carência do domínio do lazer nas recomendações, o esvaziamento de vinculação com ações do Sistema Único de Saúde e a ausência de recortes que considerem as desigualdades sociais e econômicas no país que atingem o processo saúde-doença, e consequentemente, a prática de atividades físicas. Torna-se necessário que campanhas comunicativas de incentivo ao movimento considerem, além desses pontos, o reconhecimento da atividade física como um direito humano e o compromisso com uma sociedade mais justa e equânime.

Abstract The scope of this article is to analyze the contents regarding physical activity posted on the Brazil Health website of the Ministry of Health, between 2017-2020, describing them and discussing the (non-)existent interactions between the contents published and the Physical Education and Public Health area. Through net ethnographic tools, 98 publications that deal with physical activity/physical exercise/corporal practices were located, which were posted on the website over four years. It was observed that the behavioral aspect of health promotion is predominant in all the content, and three perspectives on physical activity recommendations were identified: "sportivized," daily and generalized physical activity. These approaches are analyzed and considered along with the lack of the predominance of leisure in the recommendations, the absence of coordination with SUS programs and policies, and the lack of clippings that assess the social and economic inequalities in the country that affect the health/disease process and, consequently, the practice of physical activities. In addition to these points, it is essential that communication campaigns to encourage the movement treat the recognition of physical activity as a human right and foster the commitment to a fairer and more equitable society.

["I WANT to exercise": the controversial recommendations for physical activity on the Ministry of Health website]. / "EU QUERO me exercitar": as controversas recomendações para a atividade física em site do Ministério da Saúde.

The scope of this article is to analyze the contents regarding physical activity posted on the Brazil Health website of the Ministry of Health, between 2017-2020, describing them and discussing the (non-)existent interactions between the contents published and the Physical Education and Public Health area. Through net ethnographic tools, 98 publications that deal with physical activity/physical exercise/corporal practices were located, which were posted on the website over four years. It was observed that the behavioral aspect of health promotion is predominant in all the content, and three perspectives on physical activity recommendations were identified: "sportivized," daily and generalized physical activity. These approaches are analyzed and considered along with the lack of the predominance of leisure in the recommendations, the absence of coordination with SUS programs and policies, and the lack of clippings that assess the social and economic inequalities in the country that affect the health/disease process and, consequently, the practice of physical activities. In addition to these points, it is essential that communication campaigns to encourage the movement treat the recognition of physical activity as a human right and foster the commitment to a fairer and more equitable society.

Este artigo tem o objetivo de analisar os conteúdos sobre atividade física veiculados no site Saúde Brasil, do Ministério da Saúde, no período entre 2017-2020, descrevendo-os e discutindo as interfaces (in)existentes entre os materiais publicados e o campo da Educação Física e Saúde Coletiva. Por meio de ferramentas netnográficas foram localizadas 98 publicações que dialogam com atividade física/exercício físico/prática corporal, veiculadas durante quatro anos. Pode-se observar que a vertente comportamental da promoção da saúde permeia todo o material, sendo admitidas três perspectivas de recomendações para a prática de atividade física: esportivizada, atividade física diária e generalizada. São analisados e refletidos esses enfoques, juntamente com a carência do domínio do lazer nas recomendações, o esvaziamento de vinculação com ações do Sistema Único de Saúde e a ausência de recortes que considerem as desigualdades sociais e econômicas no país que atingem o processo saúde-doença, e consequentemente, a prática de atividades físicas. Torna-se necessário que campanhas comunicativas de incentivo ao movimento considerem, além desses pontos, o reconhecimento da atividade física como um direito humano e o compromisso com uma sociedade mais justa e equânime.

Efficacy of Novel Quaternary Ammonium and Phosphonium Salts Differing in Cation Type and Alkyl Chain Length against Antibiotic-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Antibacterial resistance poses a critical public health threat, challenging the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections. The search for innovative antibacterial agents has spurred significant interest in quaternary heteronium salts (QHSs), such as quaternary ammonium and phosphonium compounds as potential candidates. In this study, a library of 49 structurally related QHSs was synthesized, varying the cation type and alkyl chain length. Their antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, including antibiotic-resistant strains, were evaluated by determining minimum inhibitory/bactericidal concentrations (MIC/MBC) ≤ 64 µg/mL. Structure-activity relationship analyses highlighted alkyl-triphenylphosphonium and alkyl-methylimidazolium salts as the most effective against S. aureus CECT 976. The length of the alkyl side chain significantly influenced the antibacterial activity, with optimal chain lengths observed between C10 and C14. Dose-response relationships were assessed for selected QHSs, showing dose-dependent antibacterial activity following a non-linear pattern. Survival curves indicated effective eradication of S. aureus CECT 976 by QHSs at low concentrations, particularly compounds 1e, 3e, and 5e. Moreover, in vitro human cellular data indicated that compounds 2e, 4e, and 5e showed favourable safety profiles at concentrations ≤ 2 µg/mL. These findings highlight the potential of these QHSs as effective agents against susceptible and resistant bacterial strains, providing valuable insights for the rational design of bioactive QHSs.

Occurrence and seasonality of Campylobacter spp. in Portuguese dairy farms.

The growing idea that natural products are better for consumption is creating behaviors that can lead to food safety problems and an increase of healthcare costs. One of the trending products is raw milk, which in some countries is sold by vending machines outside dairy farms. Campylobacteriosis is the most common gastrointestinal infection in humans in the European Union since 2005. Several outbreaks have been associated with the consumption of raw milk contaminated with Campylobacter spp. In the present study, the occurrence and seasonality of Campylobacter spp. in raw cow's milk were determined. Other samples from the dairy farm environment were also analyzed to understand the possible routes of contamination. The study was conducted from November 2020 to September 2021 in randomly selected dairy farms located in northern Portugal. One liter of milk was collected from bulk cooling tanks transported to the laboratory and analyzed within 24 h. Campylobacter spp. detection and identification were performed using real-time PCR methodology and confirmation followed ISO standards. From 100 dairy farms evaluated, the occurrence of Campylobacter spp. was estimated at 4.0 % in raw cow's milk samples. In the samples from the environment of the farms, only contaminated fecal samples were found, corresponding to an occurrence of 4.2 %. Positivity was observed in summer months. The results of this study indicate the potential risk of campylobacteriosis after the consumption of raw milk. Consumers who seek raw milk for health reasons should be aware of the risk, especially if they belong to vulnerable groups. Moreover, it raises the question of how climate change will impact food safety, suggesting that routine surveillance for zoonotic pathogens should be implemented in dairy farms.

Associações entre uso de álcool e perfil sociodemográfico de universitários de Enfermagem e Nutrição / Associations between alcohol use and the sociodemographic profile of nursing and nutrition students / Asociaciones entre el consumo de alcohol y el perfil sociodemográfico de los estudiantes de enfermería y nutrición

OBJETIVO: verificar o padrão de uso de álcool em graduandos dos cursos de enfermagem e nutrição de uma universidade pública e possíveis associações entre as variáveis sociodemográficas. MÉTODO: estudo transversal realizado com 170 estudantes dos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem e Nutrição de uma universidade pública. Utilizou-se um questionário sociodemográfico e o Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test. As associações foram verificadas por meio do teste qui-quadrado considerando p-valor <0,05. RESULTADOS: a prevalência de consumo foi de 80% e binge drinking, 59,53%. O padrão de baixo risco foi identificado em 53,53% dos estudantes. Associaram-se aos perfis de consumo álcool a faixa etária atual e de primeiro contato com bebidas alcoólicas, composição domiciliar e tipo de bebida alcoólica consumida. CONCLUSÃO: aos padrões de riscos baixo e nocivo, entre estudantes de Enfermagem e Nutrição, associaram-se as variáveis faixa etária entre 17 e 23 anos, idade de primeiro contato com bebida alcoólica entre 10 e 17 anos, e residir com amigos. O uso de bebidas fermentadas associou-se ao padrão de baixo risco. O reconhecimento do perfil contribui para o desenvolvimento de estratégias de promoção, prevenção e educação em saúde a fim de reduzir os riscos futuros decorrentes do uso de álcool.

OBJECTIVE: to verify the pattern of alcohol use in undergraduate nursing and nutrition students at a public university and possible associations between sociodemographic variables. METHOD: a cross-sectional study with 170 undergraduate Nursing and Nutrition students from a public university. A sociodemographic questionnaire and the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test were used for data collection. Associations were verified by the chi-square test considering a p-value <0.05. RESULTS: the prevalence of consumption was 80%, and of binge drinking, 59.53%. The low risk pattern was identified in 53.53% of the students. Alcohol consumption profiles were associated with current age range and age of first contact with alcohol, household composition and type of alcohol consumed. CONCLUSION: among nursing and nutrition students, low and harmful risk patterns were associated with the following variables: age group between 17 and 23 years old, age of first contact with alcohol between 10 and 17 years, and living with friends. The use of fermented drinks was associated with the low risk pattern. The recognition of the profile contributes to the development of health promotion, prevention and education strategies in order to reduce future risks arising from the use of alcohol.

OBJETIVO: verificar el patrón de consumo de alcohol en estudiantes de licenciatura en enfermería y nutrición de una universidad pública y sus posibles asociaciones entre variables sociodemográficas. MÉTODO: estudio transversal con 170 estudiantes de pregrado de Enfermería y Nutrición de una universidad pública. Para la recopilación de datos se utilizó un cuestionario sociodemográfico y el Test de identificación de los trastornos debidos al consumo de alcohol (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test -AUDIT). Las asociaciones se verificaron mediante prueba de chi cuadrado considerando valor p <0,05. RESULTADOS: la prevalencia de consumo fue del 80% y el consumo excesivo de alcohol del 59,53%. El patrón de bajo riesgo se identificó en 53,53% de los estudiantes. Los perfiles de consumo de alcohol se asociaron con la edad actual y el primer contacto con el alcohol, la composición del hogar y el tipo de alcohol consumido. CONCLUSIÓN: a los patrones de riesgo bajo y nocivo, entre los estudiantes de Enfermería y Nutrición, se asociaron las variables grupo de edad entre 17 y 23 años, edad de primer contacto con alcohol entre 10 y 17 años y convivencia con amigos. El uso de bebidas fermentadas se asoció con el patrón de bajo riesgo. El reconocimiento del perfil contribuye al desarrollo de estrategias de promoción, prevención y educación de la salud con el fin de reducir los riesgos futuros derivados del consumo de alcohol.

Surveillance of the sanitary sewage system and SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil: a necessary discussion / Vigilância do sistema de esgotamento sanitário e o novo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2) no Brasil: uma discussão necessária

This study presents data about SARS-CoV-2 occurrence in sanitary sewage system, discussing the advantages of monitoring and applying modeling methods for COVID-19 collective diagnosis, especially in the Brazilian context. This review was conducted in electronic scientific databases, including articles, technical reports, and national and international institutional publications. Although few studies have indicated the potential for SARS-CoV-2 contamination through sewage, analysis carried out thus far led to this proposal to be considered in health surveillance actions. The Wastewater-based Epidemiology approach has been used successfully to trace and provide early warning of virus outbreaks. In Brazil, considering the COVID-19 cases increase, mass testing restrictions, and fragile sanitation conditions strengthening the monitoring of sewage systems may add up in directing the actions of the Unified Health System and other sectors before cases and preventive measures in areas potentially at risk (with greater presence and circulation of the virus through the sewage). The alternatives for environmental monitoring and modeling can act as early warning systems and assist in the embrace of preventive measures of contagion of the COVID-19.

Este artigo apresenta dados sobre a ocorrência do novo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2) no esgoto sanitário, discutindo as vantagens do monitoramento e aplicação de modelagem para o diagnóstico coletivo da COVID-19, principalmente no contexto brasileiro. O levantamento das evidências/pesquisas foi conduzido, principalmente, em bases de dados científicas eletrônicas, incluindo artigos, relatórios técnicos e publicações institucionais nacionais e internacionais. Apesar de, até o momento, poucos estudos indicarem o potencial de contaminação do SARS-CoV-2 pelo esgoto sanitário, as análises conduzidas direcionam para que esta proposição seja considerada nas ações de vigilância à saúde. A abordagem da Epidemiologia de Esgotos tem sido usada com sucesso para rastrear e fornecer alertas precoces de surtos de vírus. No Brasil, considerando o aumento de casos da COVID-19, as restrições da testagem em massa e as condições fragilizadas do saneamento, fortalecer o monitoramento dos sistemas de esgoto poderá somar no direcionamento das ações do Sistema Único de Saúde e demais setores frente aos atendimentos dos casos e às medidas preventivas em áreas potencialmente em risco (com maior presença e circulação do vírus pelo esgoto). As alternativas para monitoramento e modelagem ambiental podem funcionar como sistemas de alerta precoces e auxiliar na adoção de medidas preventivas de contágio da COVID-19.

CO2 Fertilizer Effect on Growth, Polyphenols, and Endophytes in Two Baccharis Species

Abstract In a climate change context, the buildup of CO2 will affect plant communities worldwide. This study evaluated the effects of CO2 enrichment on the development and defense of two Cerrado native species Baccharis dracunculifolia and B. platypoda and their associated endophytic fungi richness. The study took place in Open-Top Chambers, two with ambient CO2 concentration (~400 ppm) and two in an enriched environment (~800 ppm). Baccharis platypoda developed 20% more leaves under enriched CO2 conditions, whereas B. dracunculifolia was 30% taller and showed 27% more leaves than those under ambient conditions. In both species, leaf polyphenol concentration did not differ between treatments. Nevertheless, polyphenol content had a positive correlation with plant height on both species' individuals grown under CO2 enriched conditions. Endophytic fungi richness and colonization rate on both plant species did not differ between ambient and enriched conditions. Our results show the positive effect of CO2 fertilizer in at least one of the measured growth parameters. An important new finding was a synergistic increase in growth and chemical defense in both studied species under enriched CO2 conditions, suggesting higher carbon assimilation and accumulation. This study suggests that the effects on primary productivity and secondary metabolites of Baccharis species will potentially reflect on the diversity and distribution of Cerrado plants and their associated animal communities.

Instruments that evaluate the functioning in individuals affected with chikungunya and the International Classification of Functioning. A systematic review / Instrumentos que avaliam a funcionalidade em indivíduos acometidos com a chikungunya e a Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade. Revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Currently, chikungunya has become an important health problem due to its painful symptomatology and the chronicity of this condition, which may compromise the functioning of individuals. Thus, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, which focuses on functioning in the biopsychosocial context, this review sought to detect and assist in the selection of the most appropriate tool for measuring functioning in clinical practice and research. The objective of this study was to review the articles that have the functioning of individuals with chikungunya as an outcome, analyzing the instruments used for their evaluation and their relationship with the Classification model. CONTENTS: Systematic review of the literature in the Scielo, Pubmed, Scopus, LILACS, PEDro, and Cochrane databases. Observational or interventional studies were included. For the methodological evaluation of the articles, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system was used. From a total of 1579 studies found, after applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, and reading, five articles remained. The following frequencies were analyzed: health condition (3.86%), function (3.86%), body structure (0.86%), activity (67.82%), engagement (8.15%), environmental factors (8.15%) and personal factors (7.3%). Only one of the five articles covered all the domains of the International Classification of Functioning. CONCLUSION: There is a lack of tools that approach the functioning according to the model proposed by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, for the population with chikungunya.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Atualmente a chikungunya vem se tornando um importante problema de saúde devido à sua sintomatologia dolorosa e à cronicidade dessa condição, que pode comprometer a funcionalidade dos indivíduos. Assim, através da utilização da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde, que tem como foco a funcionalidade no contexto biopsicossocial, esta revisão buscou detectar e auxiliar na escolha da ferramenta mais adequada para a medição da funcionalidade na prática clínica e nas pesquisas. O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar as publicações que possuem a funcionalidade de indivíduos com chikungunya como desfecho, analisando os instrumentos utilizados para sua avaliação, verificando sua relação com o modelo da Classificação. CONTEÚDO: Revisão sistemática da literatura, nas bases de dados Scielo, Pubmed, Scopus, LILACS, PEDro e Cochrane. Foram incluídos estudos observacionais ou de intervenção. Para a avaliação metodológica dos artigos foi utilizado o sistema Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. De um total máximo de 1579 estudos encontrados, após aplicação de critérios de inclusão/exclusão e leitura, restaram 5 artigos. Analisando a frequência dos domínios da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde encontrou-se: condição de saúde (3,86%), função (3,86%), estrutura do corpo (0,86%), atividade (67,82%), participação (8,15%), fatores ambientais (8,15%) e fatores pessoais (7,3%). Apenas um dos cinco artigos contemplava todos os domínios. CONCLUSÃO: Há carência de ferramentas que abordem a funcionalidade de acordo com o modelo proposto pela Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde para a população com chikungunya.

Propriedades psicométricas do WHODAS para uso em pessoas com chikungunya no Brasil / Propiedades psicométricas de WHODAS para uso en personas con chikungunya en Brasil / Psychometric properties of WHODAS for use in patients with chikungunya in Brazil

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo é validar um instrumento de aferição da funcionalidade segundo a proposta conceitual da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde, para uso em pessoas pós-chikungunya. Este é um estudo de validação com indivíduos >17 anos, de ambos os sexos, em atendimento para manejo clínico da chikungunya. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevistas coletando informações sobre funcionalidade (WHODAS), qualidade de vida (WHOQOL-bref) e sociodemográficas. A análise estatística usou o coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (consistência interna) e coeficiente de correlação de Spearman (validade convergente), médias e desvios-padrão para a determinação do perfil de qualidade de vida, com nível de significância de 5%. A amostra foi composta por 68 indivíduos. Os valores médios das pontuações dos instrumentos foram: 45,4 (±16,38) para o WHODAS e 12,1 (±2,10) para o WHOQOL-bref. O alfa de Cronbach do valor total foi de α=0,93; todos os domínios do WHODAS apresentaram valores acima de 0,75. O valor total do WHODAS 2.0 apresentou forte correlação com o domínio físico (r=−0,74) e moderada correlação com os domínios psicológico (r=−0,68) e social (r=−0,42) do WHOQOL-bref. Os resultados indicam que o WHODAS 2.0 é um instrumento válido para a mensuração da autopercepção de alteração da funcionalidade em pacientes acometidos pela chikungunya, capaz de fornecer dados que podem ajudar a construir um perfil de impacto da doença no perfil de funcionalidade dessa população.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio es validar un instrumento de evaluación del funcionamiento de acuerdo con la propuesta conceptual de la Clasificación Internacional del Funcionamiento de la Discapacidad y de la Salud (CIF), para su uso en personas postchikungunya. Se trata de un estudio de validación con individuos >17 años, de ambos sexos, en atención para el manejo clínico de chikungunya. La recolección de datos se realizó mediante entrevistas, que reunieron informaciones sobre el funcionamiento (WHODAS), la calidad de vida (WHOQOL-bref) y los datos sociodemográficos. El análisis estadístico utilizó el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (consistencia interna) y el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman (validación convergente), medias y desviaciones estándar para determinar el perfil de la calidad de vida, con un nivel de significación del 5%. La muestra consistió en 68 individuos. Los valores medios de las puntuaciones fueron: 45,4 (±16,38) para WHODAS; y 12,1 (±2,10) para WHOQOL-bref. El alfa de Cronbach del valor total fue α=0,93; Todos los dominios WHODAS presentaron valores superiores a 0,75. El valor total de WHODAS 2.0 tuvo una fuerte correlación con el dominio físico (r=−0,74) y una correlación moderada con los dominios psicológico (r=−0,68) y social (r=−0,42) del WHOQOL-bref. Los resultados indican que WHODAS 2.0 es un instrumento válido para medir la alteración del funcionamiento autopercibido en pacientes afectados por chikungunya, siendo capaz de proporcionar datos que pueden ayudar a construir un perfil de impacto de la enfermedad en el perfil de esta población.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to validate an assessment tool for functioning and health according to the conceptual proposal of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), for its use in post-chikungunya patients. This is a validation study with individuals >17 years old of both sexes. Data collection was performed through interviews, gathering information on functioning (WHODAS), quality of life (WHOQOL-bref) and socio-demographic data. Statistical analysis used the Cronbach alpha coefficient (internal consistency) and Spearman correlation coefficient (convergent validation), means and standard deviations, with significance level of 5%. The sample consisted of 68 individuals. The mean values of scores were: 45.4 (±16.38) for WHODAS and 12.1 (±2.10) for WHOQOL-bref. The Cronbach's alpha of the total value was α=0.93; all WHODAS domains presented values ≥0.75. The total value of WHODAS 2.0 had strong correlation with the physical domain (r=−0.74) and moderate correlation with the psychological (r=−0.68) and social (r=−0.42) domains of the WHOQOL-bref. The results indicate that WHODAS 2.0 is a valid instrument for the measurement of self-perceived functioning alteration in patients affected by chikungunya.

Influence of the preparation conditions on the morphology and photocatalytic performance Pt-modified hexaniobate composites.

The preparation of lamellar nanostructures through exfoliation of stacked niobates is an interesting approach to the development of photocatalysts for energy conversion and environmental remediation. These materials exhibit a rich surface chemistry and several nanocomposites can be produced through intercalation or impregnation of suitable precursors. In this work, the influence of the physico-chemical preparation conditions on the photocatalytic activity of Pt-hexaniobate nanocomposites was investigated aiming at the establishment of the main factors that control their photoreactivities. Modification of hexaniobate layers were carried out by adsorption and impregnation methods, using [Pt(NH3)4]Cl2 (Pt1) and H2PtCl6 (Pt2), respectively. The addition of platinum precursors (1% wt.) were performed in the presence of the exfoliating agent tert-butylammonium hydroxide, sNb, or after acidic precipitation followed by resuspension in plain water, eNb. All samples were submitted to photoirradiation to reduce the platinum precursors and the effect of a previous thermal treatment was also evaluated. It was observed that H2 evolution from aqueous methanol solutions is more favored on hexaniobate nanosheets (eNb-Pt1 and eNb-Pt2) instead of scrolled layers (sNb-Pt1 and sNb-Pt2), independent on the platinum precursor. Moreover, residual tert-butylammonium can act as hole scavenger and decrease the degradation rates for methanol oxidation in sNb samples. The curled layers observed for sNb samples seem to favor the photodegradation of cationic species, such as methylene blue. Thermal treatment at 500 °C leads to morphological changes with a decrease of the specific surface area due to restacking of the individual layers along with some curling. As a result, the H2 evolution rates strongly decreases in relation to the non-sintered samples, suggesting that the 'soft' photoreduction of platinum precursors is the best method for preparation of these photocatalysts. The correlations between the preparation conditions and the photocatalytic activity for different photoreactions can allow the development of optimized materials for specific applications.

Ecotoxicological Analysis of Acrylamide Using a Microalga as an Indicator Organism.

Aquatic ecosystems are very prone to contamination. The fast and accurate assessment of the toxicity of water is an important tool for environmental safety. The aim of this study was to assess the possible toxic effects of acrylamide on physiological parameters of the Chlorophyceae Desmodesmus quadricauda. Cells in exponential growth phase were exposed for 72 h to different concentrations of acrylamide. Light microscopy analysis documented cell density, number of cells per coenobia, cell dimensions, and biovolume; chlorophyll a concentration was also determined. Result show that EC50 of acrylamide for D. quadricauda is 5.88 mg/L. Significant morphological changes were also observed for phenotypic plasticity and cellular dimensions. The most noticeable changes were the significant increase in one-celled coenobia over 24 and 48 h of exposure to EC50. These findings demonstrate that acrylamide may affect aquatic life, not only through growth inhibition, but also inducing phenotypic plasticity and also be problematic when used in high concentrations for water supply.

Morpho-anatomical study of Ageratum conyzoides

ABSTRACT Ageratum conyzoides L., belonging to the family Asteraceae, is a tropical plant found in some regions of Africa, Asia and South America. This species is popularly known as billy goat weed, “mentrasto” and “catinga-de-bode” and has a large variety of secondary metabolites and biological activities mentioned in the literature. The objective of this work was to contribute the pharmacobotanical standardization of A. conyzoides. Cross-sections were obtained, by hand, for microscopic characterization of root, stem, petiole and leaf blade; to the leaf blade were still made paradermal and longitudinal sections, scanning electron microscopy analysis and maceration. The analysis showed that secretory structures ducts are evidenced only in the petiole and the leaf blade. The root has parenchymatous medullar region; stem, petiole and leaf blade exhibit striated cuticle. Non-glandular trichomes are present in stem, petiole and leaf blade, while capitate glandular trichomes are present only in the leaf blade and are restricted to the abaxial face. These anatomical features are useful for diagnosis of the species and provide support to their quality control.

Validation of a spectrophotometric methodology for the quantification of polysaccharides from roots of Operculina macrocarpa (jalapa)

The roots from Operculina macrocarpa (L.) Urb., Convolvulaceae, are widely used in Brazilian traditional medicine as a laxative and purgative. The biological properties of this drug material have been attributed to its polysaccharides content. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the polysaccharide content in drug material from O. macrocarpa by spectrophotometric quantitative analysis. The root was used as plant material and the botanical identification was performed by macro and microscopic analysis. The plant material was used to validate the spectrophotometric procedures at 490 nm for the quantification of the reaction product from drug polysaccharides and phenol-sulfuric acid solution. The analytical procedure was evaluated in order to comply with the necessary legal requirements by the determination of the following parameters: specificity, linearity, selectivity, precision, accuracy and robustness. This study provides with a simple and valid analytical procedure (linear, precise, accurate and reproducible), which can be satisfactorily used for quality control and standardization of herbal drug from O. macrocarpa.

Transcriptional profile of fibroblasts obtained from the primary site, lymph node and bone marrow of breast cancer patients.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) influence tumor development at primary as well as in metastatic sites, but there have been no direct comparisons of the transcriptional profiles of stromal cells from different tumor sites. In this study, we used customized cDNA microarrays to compare the gene expression profile of stromal cells from primary tumor (CAF, n = 4), lymph node metastasis (N+, n = 3) and bone marrow (BM, n = 4) obtained from breast cancer patients. Biological validation was done in another 16 samples by RT-qPCR. Differences between CAF vs N+, CAF vs BM and N+ vs BM were represented by 20, 235 and 245 genes, respectively (SAM test, FDR < 0.01). Functional analysis revealed that genes related to development and morphogenesis were overrepresented. In a biological validation set, NOTCH2 was confirmed to be more expressed in N+ (vs CAF) and ADCY2, HECTD1, HNMT, LOX, MACF1, SLC1A3 and USP16 more expressed in BM (vs CAF). Only small differences were observed in the transcriptional profiles of fibroblasts from the primary tumor and lymph node of breast cancer patients, whereas greater differences were observed between bone marrow stromal cells and the other two sites. These differences may reflect the activities of distinct differentiation programs.

Evaluation of patients with schistosomal portal hypertension treated in a tertiary hospital / Perfil dos pacientes com Esquistossomose Mansoni tratados em hospital terciário

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis is an important public health issue in more than 70 countries around the world. About 600 million people are at risk to acquire the parasite and there are 200 million infected worldwide. AIM: To evaluate the characteristics of schistosomal portal hypertension individuals who underwent previous esophageal varices bleeding treated in a tertiary hospital. METHODS: The records of 155 patients were evaluated and clinical, laboratorial, endoscopic, epidemiological features and hemorrhagic event severity were analyzed to individualize this population. RESULTS: Mean age was 37.2 years and no clinical signs of hepatic failure were observed. Serum laboratory tests to evaluate liver function were normal or slightly alter. Anemia was present in 70 percent, leucopenia in 75 percent and thrombocytopenia in 86 percent of the patients. At endoscopic evaluation varices were classified as grade III and IV in 91.3 percent; red spots were observed in 40.3 percent and congestive gastropathy in 13.6 percent. Patients presented a mean of 2.8 previous episodes of variceal hemorrhage and, in 75 percent with hemodynamic instability. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with schistosomal portal hypertension and history of upper digestive bleeding from esophageal varices are young individuals, without either clinical or laboratorial evidence of liver dysfunction, that present high morbidity due to the severity of the acute event of bleeding.

RACIONAL: Esquistossomose é importante doença na saúde pública envolvendo mais de 70 países. Cerca de 600 milhões de pessoas estão em áreas de risco para adquirir a doença e em torno de 200 milhões estão por ela infectados. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características da hipertensão porta esquistossomótica em indivíduos que se submeteram previamente a tratamento de varizes esofágicas hemorrágicas em hospital terciário. MÉTODOS: Os prontuários de 155 pacientes foram avaliados analisando-se aspectos clínicos, laboratoriais, endoscópicos, epidemiológicos e intensidade de eventos hemorrágicos. RESULTADOS: A idade média foi de 37.2 anos e não havia sinais clínicos de insuficiência hepática. Análises séricas para avaliação da função hepática foram normais ou levemente alteradas. Anemia estava presente em 70 por cento, leucopenia em 75 por cento e trombocitopenia em 86 por cento. Na endoscopia as varizes foram classificadas em graus III e V em 91.3 por cento; red spots foram vistos em 40.3 por cento e gastropatia congestiva em 13.6 por cento. Os pacientes apresentaram média de 2.8 prévios episódios de hemorragia por varizes e em 75 por cento havia instabilidade hemodinâmica. Conclusões - Pacientes com hipertensão porta esquistossomótica e histórico de sangramento digestivo alto por varizes esofágicas são jovens, sem evidências laboratoriais de alteração hepática importante e apresentam alta morbidade, devido à severidade do evento hemorrágico.

Ablação por radiofrequência de tumores hepáticos primários e metastáticos: experiência em 113 casos / Radiofrequency ablation of primary and metastatic liver tumors: 113 cases experience

RACIONAL: A ablação por radiofreqüência de tumores hepáticos primários e metastáticos é método efetivo para o tratamento paliativo de tais neoplasias. Pode ser utilizada em nódulos com até 3-4 cm de diâmetro e não mais do que três lesões a serem tratadas. É procedimento passível de execução via laparotômia, laparoscópica e percutânea. Freqüentemente vem sendo aplicado como ponte para o transplante, assim como método alternativo nos tumores recorrentes após ressecção. OBJETIVO: Apresentar a experiência alcançada em uma série de pacientes onde a ablação por radiofreqüência foi utilizada. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados 113 casos nos quais a ablação por radiofreqüência foi aplicada por via percutânea ou por meio de laparotomia no tratamento de 170 lesões. O grupo foi composto por 43 casos de carcinoma hepatocelular, 53 de metástase de tumor colorretal, seis de metástases de carcinoma neuroendócrino, quatro de metástase de tumor de mama, quatro de colangiocarcinoma; um de metástase de tumor de pâncreas; um metástase de tumor renal e um de metástase hepática de leiomiosarcoma. RESULTADOS: A média de lesões tratadas foi de 1,5 por caso com tamanho médio de 3,6 cm por lesão. Foram os seguintes segmentos acometidos: segmento I (n=7), II (n=5), III (n=6), IV (n=39), V (n=10), VI(n=11), VII (n=50) e VIII (n=42). A morbidade associada ao método foi de 26,5% e a mortalidade de 3,5%. Observou-se taxa de recorrência após o procedimento de 17,6% em média 10,6 meses após a ablação. CONCLUSÃO: A ablação por radiofreqüência é procedimento seguro que pode ser utilizado em pacientes com reserva hepática comprometida. Nas doenças metastáticas o procedimento não substitui o tratamento operatório e o uso de outros métodos de controle mas mostra benefícios na evolução dos pacientes.

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency ablation of primary and metastatic liver tumors is an effective method for treating palliative liver tumors. This method can be used in nodules of up to 3-4 cm of diameter, having no more than three lesions to be treated. The procedure can be achieved by laparotomy, laparoscopy as well as percutaneously. This method has also frequently been applied as a bridge to liver transplantation as well as an alternative method for recurrent tumors after resection. AIM: To present the experiment achieved in a series of patients were radiofrequency ablation was utilized. METHODS: 113 cases were studied, where radiofrequency ablation was applied percutaneously or by means of laparotomy in the treatment of 170 lesions. The group was composed of 43 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma; 53 colorectal tumor metastasis; six neuroendocrine carcinomas; four breast tumor metastasis; four cholangiocarcinomas; one pancreatic tumor metastasis; one renal tumor metastasis and one leiomyosarcoma hepatic metastasis. RESULTS: The average of treated lesions was of 1,5 per case with an average size of 3,6 cm per lesion. The following segments were compromised: segment I (n=7), II (n=5), IV (n=39), V (n=10), VI (n=11), VII (n=50) and VIII (n=42). Morbidity and mortality rates associated to the method were of 26,5% and 3,5% respectively. Recurrence rates after the procedure reached 17,6% after an average of 10,6 months subsequent to ablation. CONCLUSION: Radiofrequency ablation is a safe procedure that can be used in patients with compromised hepatic function. In metastatic diseases this procedure does not substitute surgical treatment and the use of other control methods shows many benefits in the evolution of patients.