Validation of the internal structure of the Brazilian Dental Vulnerability Scale.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate evidence of validity of internal structure of the Brazilian Dental Vulnerability Scale (EVO-BR) when applied in Brazil. METHODS: This is a psychometric study that seeks to validate a scale elaborated by evidence of internal structure. Data collection was conducted in 18 basic health units that implement the Brazilian Healthcare Planning (PAS) methodology, across the five regions of Brazil. The initial version of the EVO-BR contained 41 items that measured dental vulnerability and was applied to users of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) aged 18 years or older who were in basic health units for consultation with higher education professionals. To evaluate the evidence, the following statistical analyses were performed: exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and network analysis. RESULTS: A total of 1,753 users participated in the study. To adjust the sample, we considered the factorability obtained from Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test = 0.65, Bartlett sphericity test = 8019.7, and a matrix determinant of 0.008. The initial parallel analysis indicated a four-dimensional model and had the items adjusted according to factor loading (ranging from 0.38 to 0.99), common factors (0.13 to 0.89), and Pratt's measure, until the model presented congruence in the statistical and interpretative principles simultaneously. The final model contained 15 items, maintaining the four dimensions indicated by the parallel analysis, and held an explained variance of 68.56%. CONCLUSIONS: The EVO-BR is a validated scale to measure dental vulnerability and, thus, can contribute to the organization of access to the oral health team in primary health care (PHC) by stratifying the population, as recommended in the Brazilian Healthcare Planning.

Acute exercise modulates Trim63 and Bmal1 in the skeletal muscle of IL-10 knockout mice.

The anti-inflammatory role of physical exercise is mediated by interleukin 10 (IL-10), and their release is possibly upregulated in response to IL-6. Previous studies demonstrated that mice lacking IL-6 (IL-6 KO mice) exhibited diminished exercise tolerance, and reduced strength. Rev-erbα, a transcriptional suppressor involved in circadian rhythm, has been discovered to inhibit the expression of genes linked to bodily functions, encompassing inflammation and metabolism. It also plays a significant role in skeletal muscle and exercise performance capacity. Given the potential association between Rev-erbα and the immune system and the fact that both pathways are modulated following acute aerobic exercise, we examined the physical performance of IL-10 KO mice and analyzed the modulation of the atrophy and Rev-erbα pathways in the muscle of wild type (WT) and IL-10 KO mice following one session of acute exercise. For each phenotype, WT and IL-10 KO were divided into two subgroups (Control and Exercise). The acute exercise session started at 6 m/min, followed by 3 m/min increments every 3 min until animal exhaustion. Two hours after the end of the exercise protocol, the gastrocnemius muscle was removed and prepared for the reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-q-PCR) and immunoblotting technique. In summary, compared to WT, the IL-10 KO animals showed lower body weight and grip strength in the baseline. The IL-10 control group presented a lower protein content of BMAL1. After the exercise protocol, the IL-10 KO group had higher mRNA levels of Trim63 (atrophy signaling pathway) and lower mRNA levels of Clock and Bmal1 (Rev-erbα signaling pathway). This is the first study showing the relationship between Rev-erbα and atrophy in IL-10 KO mice. Also, we accessed a public database that analyzed the gastrocnemius of MuRF KO mice submitted to two processes of muscle atrophy, a denervation surgery and dexamethasone (Dexa) injections. Independently of knockout, the denervation demonstrated lower Nr1d1 levels. In conclusion, IL-10 seems to be a determinant in the Rev-erbα pathway and atrophy after acute exercise, with no modulation in the baseline state.

Do feeding responses of a non-native bivalve outperform the native one in a coastal lagoon? A possible explanation for the invasion success of the dark false mussel Mytilopsis leucophaeata.

The present study aimed to evaluate and compare feeding responses of the non-native and native bivalves, the dark false mussel Mytilopsis leucophaeata and the scorched mussel Brachidontes darwinianus, respectively, by offering different concentrations of seston from the coastal lagoon where these species coexist after dark false mussel introduction (Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Rio de Janeiro-Brazil). For this purpose, independent laboratory experiments were carried out under five concentrations of seston to test the differences in clearance and ingestion rates of bivalves as a function of increasing concentrations of suspended particulate matter (SPM) on seston. In addition, from the integrated analysis of data obtained in experiments, it can be inferred about the efficiency levels of these species to remove SPM from seston and their effects on water turbidity and nutrient concentrations (total carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus). Our hypothesis was that the non-native bivalve is more efficient to clear and ingest SPM from seston compared to the native one, which may lead to competitive advantages to the successful invasion of M. leucophaeata in coastal lagoons. Native species did not show a significant difference in clearance and ingestion rates with increasing concentrations of seston. Whereas the non-native bivalve showed a slight tendency to increase its clearance and ingestion rates with the increase in seston concentrations, evidencing its plasticity to adjust its feeding responses. The native bivalve was significantly more efficient to clear and ingest SPM at the lower seston concentration (i.e., close to natural concentrations found in the lagoon) compared to the non-native bivalve, which, on the other hand, showed a significant increase in its ingestion rates at the higher concentration tested (140 mg SPM L-1). Thus, the present results did not suggest food competition between the non-native M. leucophaeata and the native B. darwinianus in the introduced system. However, M. leucophaeata increased its feeding response with experimental increment in seston concentration, which suggests species ability to benefit from conditions of increased inputs of organic matter and higher primary production that could mediate its establishment in introduced systems.

A 7-Week Summer Camp in Antarctica Induces Fluctuations on Human Oral Microbiome, Pro-Inflammatory Markers and Metabolic Hormones Profile.

Antarctic camps pose psychophysiological challenges related to isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) conditions, including meals composed of sealed food. ICE conditions can influence the microbiome and inflammatory responses. Seven expeditioners took part in a 7-week Antarctic summer camp (Nelson Island) and were evaluated at Pre-Camp (i.e., at the beginning of the ship travel), Camp-Initial (i.e., 4th and 5th day in camp), Camp-Middle (i.e., 19th-20th, and 33rd-34th days), Camp-Final (i.e., 45th-46th day), and at the Post-Camp (on the ship). At the Pre-Camp, Camp-Initial, and Camp-Final, we assessed microbiome and inflammatory markers. Catecholamines were accessed Pre- and Post-Camp. Heart rate variability (HRV), leptin, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroxine (T4) were accessed at all time points. Students' t-tests or repeated-measures analysis of variance (one or two-way ANOVA) followed by Student-Newman-Keuls (post hoc) were used for parametric analysis. Kruskal-Wallis test was applied for non-parametric analysis. Microbiome analysis showed a predominance of Pseudomonadota (34.01%), Bacillota (29.82%), and Bacteroidota (18.54%), followed by Actinomycetota (5.85%), and Fusobacteria (5.74%). Staying in a long-term Antarctic camp resulted in microbiome fluctuations with a reduction in Pseudomonadota-a "microbial signature" of disease. However, the pro-inflammatory marker leptin and IL-8 tended to increase, and the angiogenic factor VEGF was reduced during camp. These results suggest that distinct Antarctic natural environments and behavioral factors modulate oral microbiome and inflammation.

Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Dentists in Latin America's Epicenter: São Paulo, Brazil.

The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of stress and anxiety symptoms among dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. A structured questionnaire was sent electronically to 93,280 dentists with active registration in the Dental Council of São Paulo, Brazil, enquiring about information regarding the first-wave peak period in Brazil. Descriptive analyses of background characteristics, perceptions of preparedness, and psychological impact were calculated. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed, and independent variables that showed p < 0.20 were used in the adjusted logistic regression model to compare the psychological impact on dental professionals. Among the 2113 respondents, female participants had 63% lower chance of reporting anxiety than males. Older dentists had a lower likelihood of reporting anxiety compared to 21-30-year-old dentists (p ≤ 0.05). Dentists working in the public health service were 1.78 times more likely to report anxiety than those who worked in private practice. Finally, dentists in the COVID-19 high-risk group and those with a family or team member with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis were more likely to have anxiety. This study can help dental and other healthcare professionals to better understand the consequences of COVID-19 in terms of mental health.

Dietary Intake of Flaxseed Oil since Early Stages of Life Promotes Femur Quality in Male Rats.

BACKGROUND: Flaxseed oil (FO) is an alpha linolenic acid source important for growth and body development. However, there is little literature on the role of FO in critical stages of bone development and formation. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of a diet containing FO on rat femurs. METHODS: After birth, mothers and pups were divided into control and flaxseed groups (n = 6 pups each) fed diets containing 7% soybean oil (C) or 7% FO. At 21 days, pups were weaned and separated from the mothers, and control or experimental diets were continued. At 67 days, the following were analyzed: osteocalcin and osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels, bone mineral density (BMD) and content, and bone area; the dimension, BMD, head radiodensity, and biomechanical proprieties of the right femur; and histomorphometric parameters of the left femur. RESULTS: Compared to the C group, the FO group presented (p < 0.05) a lower body mass (-3.7%) and medullary area (-10.1%) and higher osteocalcin (+36.7%), OPG (+52.5%), femur width (+3.8%), absolute mass (+2.3%), femur BMD (+3.6%), head radiodensity (+6.1%), maximum force (+7.4%), breaking strength (+17.3), and cortical thickness (+7.0). CONCLUSION: The FO diet contributed to femur quality in healthy male Wistar rats.

O papel da enfermagem frente aos cuidados paliativos na unidade de terapia intensiva / The role of nursing in the face of palliative care in the intensive care unit / El papel de la enfermería frente a los cuidados paliativos en la unidad de cuidados intensivos

Objetivo: Investigar como vem sendo o realizado o trabalho do enfermeiro frente aos cuidados paliativos no contexto da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Método: Revisão integrativa da literatura realizada no período de junho a agosto de 2021 Biblioteca Virtual da Saúde foi utilizada a base de dados Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Scientific Eletronic Library Online, Base de dados de Enfermagem e Manuais do Ministério da Saúde. Resultados: Foi realizado uma busca pelos descritores em saúde determinados e após análise sistemática dos artigos foram selecionadas 11 produções científicas que atenderam os critérios de inclusão. Conclusão: Portanto, podemos dizer que existe a necessidade do enfermeiro se aprofundar mais sobre a temática para que possa atuar com mais segurança, proximidade e implementar ações voltadas para as necessidades do paciente terminal e seus familiares.

Objective:: To investigate how nurses' work has been performed in the context of the Intensive Care Unit. Method: Integrative review of the literature conducted from June to August 2021 virtual health library was used the database Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Nursing database and Manuals of the Ministry of Health. Results: A search was performed for the defined health descriptors and after systematic analysis of the articles 11 scientific productions were selected that met the inclusion criteria. Conclusion: Therefore, we can say that there is a need for nurses to delve deeper into the theme so that they can act more safely, closely and implement actions focused on the needs of terminally ill patients and their families.

Objetivo: Investigar cómo se ha realizado el trabajo de las enfermeras en el contexto de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Método: Revisión integradora de la literatura realizada de junio a agosto de 2021 en la biblioteca virtual de salud se utilizó la base de datos Sistema de Análisis y Recuperación de Literatura Médica en Línea, Biblioteca Electrónica Científica en Línea, Base de datos de Enfermería y Manuales del Ministerio de Salud. Resultados: Se realizó una búsqueda de los descriptores de salud definidos y tras el análisis sistemático de los artículos se seleccionaron 11 producciones científicas que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Conclusión: Por lo tanto, podemos decir que existe la necesidad de que las enfermeras profundicen en el tema para que puedan actuar de manera más segura, cercana e implementar acciones centradas en las necesidades de los pacientes con enfermedades terminales y sus familias

Dental vulnerability scale in primary health care: evidence of content and structure internal validity.

BACKGROUND: Access to oral health services remains a challenge in the Brazilian healthcare system, especially in the primary health care setting, where the use of a risk stratification tool that could identify individuals with higher dental vulnerability would be extremely valuable. However, there literature on this theme is scarce, and there is no validated instrument in Brazil that is capable of measuring dental vulnerability. Hence, this psychometric study aimed at the development and evaluation of content and internal structure validity of the Dental Vulnerability Scale for Primary Health Care (PHC). METHODS: The items were developed based on a qualitative exploratory analysis. A total of 172 items were prepared and submitted to a panel of specialists, with content validity analyzed with the Content Validity Ratio (CVR), resulting in an the initial version of the instrument composed by 41 items. Internal structure validity was analyzed by Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and by applying 3 reliability indicators (Cronbach's Alpha, McDonald's Omega and Greatest Lower Bound - GBL), with a sample of 1227 individuals. RESULTS: The final configuration indicated a scale of 15 items divided into 4 dimensions (overall health, oral health, infrastructure, and healthcare services) with explained variance of 72.11%. The factor loads varied from 0.37 to 0.96. The model adjustment indices were set at × 2/df(51) = 3.23, NNFI = 0.95, CFI = 0.98, GFI = 0.96, AGFI = 0.97, RMSEA = 0.04 and RMSR = 0.03. CONCLUSION: DVS presented satisfactory evidence of validity, indicating its suitability to be used by healthcare professionals, students and managers to plan oral health actions and services at PHC.

3D printing and amputation: a scoping review.

PURPOSE: Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an innovative technology being utilized to create prostheses for individuals with limb loss. However, there is a paucity of research on the feasibility of using this technology to fabricate prostheses. A scoping review was conducted to map the literature on 3D printing and its applications in the field of amputation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a scoping review framework, a systematic literature search was conducted in three electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL) for all indexed literature up to 29 June 2018. RESULTS: Twenty-eight articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies had small sample sizes (five participants or less; n = 20) and used a case study design (n = 17). The benefits of 3D printing technology include higher levels of customization and lower production costs. However, the functionality of 3D printed prostheses is lacking. There is also a need for more robust research designs to obtain a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of 3D printed prostheses and its impact on end-user outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The use of 3D printing technology has a number of benefits for improving the manufacturing process of devices for people with lower and upper limb loss. However, more research and technological advancements are required to fully understand the impact of this technology on patients and how it will affect their daily life. The long-term effects of this technology will also need to be investigated in order to produce a more sustainable alternative to traditional prostheses.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe use of 3D printing technology for the fabrication of prosthetics for persons with limb-loss has a number of promising features to improve the fitting and customization of these devices for this patient population.Although the costs of producing 3D printed devices is less expensive and burdensome than traditional approaches to manufacturing techniques, there is a need for additional technological advancements to improve the functionality of these devices.Future research needs to adopt more robust research designs with larger sample sizes to provide a better understanding of the viability of using 3D printing technology to improve patient outcomes.

Strong CD4 T Cell Responses to Zika Virus Antigens in a Cohort of Dengue Virus Immune Mothers of Congenital Zika Virus Syndrome Infants.

Background: There is an urgent need to understand the complex relationship between cross-reactive anti-viral immunity, disease susceptibility, and severity in the face of differential exposure to related, circulating Flaviviruses. Co-exposure to Dengue virus and Zika virus in Brazil is a case in point. A devastating aspect of the 2015-2016 South American Zika outbreak was the dramatic increase in numbers of infants born with microcephaly to mothers exposed to Zika virus during pregnancy. It has been proposed that this is more likely to ensue from Zika infection in women lacking cross-protective Dengue immunity. In this case series we measure the prevalence of Dengue immunity in a cohort of mothers exposed to Zika virus during pregnancy in the 2015-2016 Zika outbreak that gave birth to an infant affected by microcephaly and explore their adaptive immunity to Zika virus. Results: Fifty women from Sergipe, Brazil who gave birth to infants with microcephaly following Zika virus exposure during the 2015-16 outbreak were tested for serological evidence of Dengue exposure and IFNγ ELISpot spot forming cell (SFC) response to Zika virus. The majority (46/50) demonstrated Dengue immunity. IFNγ ELISpot responses to Zika virus antigens showed the following hierarchy: Env>NS1>NS3>C protein. Twenty T cell epitopes from Zika virus Env were identified. Responses to Zika virus antigens Env and NS1 were polyfunctional with cells making IFNγ, TNFα, IL-4, IL-13, and IL-10. In contrast, responses to NS5 only produced the immune regulatory TGFß1 cytokine. There were SFC responses against Zika virus Env (1-20) and variant peptide sequences from West Nile virus, Dengue virus 1-4 and Yellow Fever virus. Conclusion: Almost all the women in our study showed serological evidence of Dengue immunity, suggesting that microcephaly can occur in DENV immune mothers. T cell immunity to Zika virus showed a multifunctional response to the antigens Env and NS1 and immune regulatory responses to NS5 and C protein. Our data support an argument that different viral products may skew the antiviral response to a more pro or anti-inflammatory outcome, with an associated impact on immunopathogenesis.

Association Between Zika Virus Microcephaly in Newborns With the rs3775291 Variant in Toll-Like Receptor 3 and rs1799964 Variant at Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Gene.

Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) is a cluster of malformation, and the mechanisms that lead it are still unclear. Using hypothesis-driven candidate genes and their function in viral infections, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in a sample population from Sergipe State, Brazil. This study shows that rs3775291 SNP at Toll-like receptor 3, which triggers type I interferon antiviral responses in mothers infected by Zika virus during pregnancy, is associated with CZS occurrence (odds ratio [OR], 2.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.158-4.148). Moreover, rs1799964 SNP at tumor necrosis factor-α gene in CZS babies is associated with severe microcephaly (OR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.13-6.21).

Systems analysis of subjects acutely infected with the Chikungunya virus.

The largest ever recorded epidemic of the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) broke out in 2004 and affected four continents. Acute symptomatic infections are typically associated with the onset of fever and often debilitating polyarthralgia/polyarthritis. In this study, a systems biology approach was adopted to analyze the blood transcriptomes of adults acutely infected with the CHIKV. Gene signatures that were associated with viral RNA levels and the onset of symptoms were identified. Among these genes, the putative role of the Eukaryotic Initiation Factor (eIF) family genes and apolipoprotein B mRNA editing catalytic polypeptide-like (APOBEC3A) in the CHIKV replication process were displayed. We further compared these signatures with signatures induced by the Dengue virus infection and rheumatoid arthritis. Finally, we demonstrated that the CHIKV in vitro infection of murine bone marrow-derived macrophages induced IL-1 beta production in a mechanism that is significantly dependent on the inflammasome NLRP3 activation. The observations provided valuable insights into virus-host interactions during the acute phase and can be instrumental in the investigation of new and effective therapeutic interventions.

Systems analysis of subjects acutely infected with the Chikungunya virus

The largest ever recorded epidemic of the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) broke out in 2004 and affected four continents. Acute symptomatic infections are typically associated with the onset of fever and often debilitating polyarthralgia/polyarthritis. In this study, a systems biology approach was adopted to analyze the blood transcriptomes of adults acutely infected with the CHIKV. Gene signatures that were associated with viral RNA levels and the onset of symptoms were identified. Among these genes, the putative role of the Eukaryotic Initiation Factor (eIF) family genes and apolipoprotein B mRNA editing catalytic polypeptide-like (APOBEC3A) in the CHIKV replication process were displayed. We further compared these signatures with signatures induced by the Dengue virus infection and rheumatoid arthritis. Finally, we demonstrated that the CHIKV in vitro infection of murine bone marrow-derived macrophages induced IL-1 beta production in a mechanism that is significantly dependent on the inflammasome NLRP3 activation. The observations provided valuable insights into virus-host interactions during the acute phase and can be instrumental in the investigation of new and effective therapeutic interventions.

Systems analysis of subjects acutely infected with the Chikungunya virus

The largest ever recorded epidemic of the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) broke out in 2004 and affected four continents. Acute symptomatic infections are typically associated with the onset of fever and often debilitating polyarthralgia/polyarthritis. In this study, a systems biology approach was adopted to analyze the blood transcriptomes of adults acutely infected with the CHIKV. Gene signatures that were associated with viral RNA levels and the onset of symptoms were identified. Among these genes, the putative role of the Eukaryotic Initiation Factor (eIF) family genes and apolipoprotein B mRNA editing catalytic polypeptide-like (APOBEC3A) in the CHIKV replication process were displayed. We further compared these signatures with signatures induced by the Dengue virus infection and rheumatoid arthritis. Finally, we demonstrated that the CHIKV in vitro infection of murine bone marrow-derived macrophages induced IL-1 beta production in a mechanism that is significantly dependent on the inflammasome NLRP3 activation. The observations provided valuable insights into virus-host interactions during the acute phase and can be instrumental in the investigation of new and effective therapeutic interventions.

Flaxseed (linum usitatissimum) flour contributes to bone health in adult male rats.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated effects of flaxseed flour diet on bone health in adult Wistar male rats at 180 d. METHODS: After birth, pups were randomly assigned: Control (C, n = 12) and flaxseed flour (FF, n = 12) diet during lactation period. At 21 d, pups were weaned and they continued to receive the control and experimental diet, respectively. At 180 d, body length, total bone structure, and femur and lumbar vertebrae were evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Femoral and lumbar vertebra dimensions, biomechanical properties of femur, and serum osteocalcin were measured. RESULTS: FF produced greater (P <0.05) total (+3.4%) and spine (+5.9%) bone mineral density, total (+10%) and spine (+12%) bone mineral content, total bone area (+8.7%), and osteocalcin (+82%). As to femur, FF produced greater (P <0.05) width of diaphysis (+8.1%), bone mineral density (+5.2%), maximum force (+10.6%), breaking strength (+12.9%), and stiffness (+23%). CONCLUSION: This experimental study found that a diet containing flaxseed flour contributed to bone mineral density and femur resistance at 180 d.

Análise de implantação do núcleo de apoio à saúde da família em três municípios da Zona da Mata norte de Pernambuco / Analysis of family health support center implementation in three municipalities in the northern Zona da Mata of Pernambuco

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a implantação do Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família (NASF) em três municípios da Zona da Mata Norte de Pernambuco, determinando o grau de implantação do NASF nesses municípios, a partir das dimensões estrutura e processo e analisando a influência do contexto político e estrutural na variação do grau de implantação. Trata-se de uma pesquisa avaliativa do tipo análise de implantação 1-b, desenvolvida no período de março a agosto de 2015, com os profissionais do NASF, coordenadores da AB e secretários de saúde. Os NASF dos municípios A, B e C obtiveram um grau de implantação de 72% (parcialmente implantado), 81% (implantado) e 68% (parcialmente implantado), respectivamente. Na análise do contexto, houve uma coerência nos resultados, pois o único município onde o NASF foi considerado implantado foi o mesmo que apresentou um contexto mais favorável. Da mesma forma, o município com o grau de implantação mais baixo foi o que obteve um contexto mais desfavorável. Observou-se que uma gestão que proporciona condições adequadas para realização das atividades pelos profissionais, sejam elas relacionadas à estrutura ou ao processo, influencia positivamente a implantação da intervenção.

This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the Family Health Support Center (FHSC) in three municipalities in the Northern Zona da Mata of Pernambuco, determining the degree of FHSC implementation in these municipalities from the structure and process dimensions, and analyzing the influence of the political and structural context in the variation of the degree of implementation. This is an evaluative study, type 1b implementation analysis, developed in the period from March to August 2015 with FHSC professionals, coordinators from AB, and secretaries of health. The FHSC from the A, B, and C municipalities obtained a degree of implementation of 72% (partially implemented), 81% (implemented), and 68% (partially implemented), respectively. In the context analysis there was a consistency in the results, because the only region where the FHSC was considered implemented was the same one that presented a more favorable context. In similar fashion, the region with the lowest degree of implementation was the one that had a more unfavorable context. It was observed that management that provides suitable conditions for carrying out activities by professionals, whether related to the structure or the process, positively influences the implementation of the intervention.

Metal and metalloid distribution in different environmental compartments of the middle Xingu River in the Amazon, Brazil.

Concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Pb, Hg, and Ni were analyzed during rainy and dry seasons in water, sediment, soil, and two fish species. The analysis took place at four points in the Xingu River, one point in the Fresco River, and two mining pits in the southeastern area of the Eastern Amazon, Brazil. In the water, the total concentration of As (>0.14µg/L) was higher than the local reference values at all sampling points and in both seasons. Ordination analysis (PCA) highlighted As and Cu elements in the water. PERMANOVA showed that the metals behaved differently in the water throughout the monitored season and between sampling points. The sites with mining activity were the regions that were the most contaminated by metals. Samples of sediment (Ni>18mg/kg and Cr>37.30mg/kg) and soil (Pb>72mg/kg, Cr>75mg/kg and Ni>30mg/Kg) showed concentrations above the recommended by local legislation. Metal values in the muscle of both fish species were relatively low at all sampling points and in both monitored seasons. Concentrations in water, sediment, and soil showed that some points of the Xingu River, Fresco River and mining pits are contaminated by trace elements, mainly As, Hg, Cr, Pb, and Ni. This was the first study about trace elements in the Middle Xingu River, which leads us to conclude that rainfall and cassiterite mining activities strongly influence the mobilization of metals, especially in abiotic compartments. However, the fish analyzed did not exhibit relevant levels of contamination. This indicates low risk for human consumption. Additionally, results highlight the need to establish local criteria to define contamination limits for different metals while taking into account local geochemistry particularities and biome diversity.

Incorporation of Flaxseed Flour as a Dietary Source for ALA Increases Bone Density and Strength in Post-Partum Female Rats.

In women, bone mass undergoes changes during pregnancy and the postpartum period, which has a risk for subsequent development of osteoporosis. Thus, the present study aims to evaluate the effects of flaxseed flour in femur quality during post-weaning of dam rats. After weaning, the rats were divided into control (C, n = 7) and experimental (F, n = 7) groups treated with a diet containing 25 g of flaxseed flour in the lactating period and 15 g in the maintenance period. After 51 days post-partum, serum hormone, fatty acids composition, bone compartments, computed tomography, and biomechanical analyses were determined. Food intake, length, body mass, hormone analysis, and total bone compartments showed similar results. For biomechanical and computed tomography analysis and fatty acids composition, the F group showed higher maximum force (+12%, p < 0.05), breaking strength (+25%, p < 0.05), rigidity (+17%, p < 0.0001), and femoral head radiodensity (+15%, p < 0.05) and presented lower total polyunsaturated fatty acids (-17%, p < 0.0001) and arachidonic acid (-44%, p < 0.0001) and higher ALA (+695%, p < 0.0001) and EPA (+160%, p < 0.05). Fatty acids composition of flaxseed flour, as well as its protein profile and calcium content, were able to improve the bone quality, which may be associated with lower serum levels of arachidonic acid and higher EPA, showing an anti-inflammatory profile and increased deposition of organic matrix during the post-weaning period, and may result in prevention of future osteoporosis.