Fatigue-Related Changes in Running Technique and Mechanical Variables After a Maximal Incremental Test in Recreational Runners.

Understanding the changes in running mechanics caused by fatigue is essential to assess its impact on athletic performance. Changes in running biomechanics after constant speed conditions are well documented, but the adaptive responses after a maximal incremental test are unknown. We compared the spatiotemporal, joint kinematics, elastic mechanism, and external work parameters before and after a maximal incremental treadmill test. Eighteen recreational runners performed 2-minute runs at 8 km·h-1 before and after a maximal incremental test on a treadmill. Kinematics, elastic parameters, and external work were determined using the OpenCap and OpenSim software. We did not find differences in spatiotemporal parameters and elastic parameters (mechanical work, ankle, and knee motion range) between premaximal and postmaximal test conditions. After the maximal test, the runners flexed their hips more at contact time (19.4°-20.6°, P = .013) and presented a larger range of pelvis rotation at the frontal plane (10.3°-11.4°, P = .002). The fatigue applied in the test directly affects pelvic movements; however, it does not change the lower limb motion or the spatiotemporal and mechanical work parameters in recreational runners. A larger frontal plane motion of the pelvis deserves attention due to biomechanical risk factors associated with injuries.

Boosting immunity: synergistic antiviral effects of luteolin, vitamin C, magnesium and zinc against SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro.

SARS-CoV-2 was first discovered in 2019 and has disseminated throughout the globe to pandemic levels, imposing significant health and economic burdens. Although vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been developed, their long-term efficacy and specificity have not been determined, and antiviral drugs remain necessary. Flavonoids, which are commonly found in plants, fruits, and vegetables and are part of the human diet, have attracted considerable attention as potential therapeutic agents due to their antiviral and antimicrobial activities and effects on other biological activities, such as inflammation. The present study uses a combination of biochemical, cellular, molecular dynamics, and molecular docking experiments to provide compelling evidence that the flavonoid luteolin (2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one) has antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) that is synergistically enhanced by magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C. The IC50 of luteolin against 2 µM 3CLpro is 78 µM and decreases 10-fold to 7.6 µM in the presence of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin C. Thermodynamic stability analyses revealed that luteolin has minimal effects on the structure of 3CLpro, whereas metal ions and vitamin C significantly alter the thermodynamic stability of the protease. Interactome analysis uncovered potential host-virus interactions and functional clusters associated with luteolin activity, supporting the relevance of this flavone for combating SARS-CoV-2 infection. This comprehensive investigation sheds light on luteolin's therapeutic potential and provides insights into its mechanisms of action against SARS-CoV-2. The novel formulation of luteolin, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C may be an effective avenue for treating COVID-19 patients.

Valorization of Carapa guianensis Aubl. seeds treated by compressed n-propane.

This study evaluated the oil content obtained from andiroba seeds by pressurized n-propane at different conditions of temperature (25, 35, and 45 °C) and pressure (40, 60, and 80 bar), and conventional extraction technique using n-hexane as the solvent. Kinetic extraction curves were fitted using Sovová's mathematical model. The chemical characterization of the oil was reported as well as the protein content in the extraction by-product. Pressurized extractions conducted at 25 °C provided the highest oil recovery (~45 wt%) from the seeds. The increase in pressure at 25 ºC favored obtaining oil with higher Stigmasterol contents, however, the Squalene content was higher in the oil obtained at 40 bar. The oils with the highest concentration phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity were obtained at 80 bar. Extraction with n-propane provided oils with higher levels of phenolic compounds, however, with antioxidant activity similar to conventional extraction. For all evaluated extractions, the product showed a predominance of oleic and palmitic acids, with similar values of oxidative stability. The extraction of the by-product with the highest soluble protein content was obtained under mild processing conditions (25 °C and 40 bar) with n-propane.

Exploring the Resurgence of a Neglected Disease: Lessons From the 2023-2024 Mpox Outbreak in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Following the 2022 global mpox outbreak, diagnoses decreased worldwide, even in settings with limited vaccine access. In 2023-2024, a new outbreak emerged in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, highlighting the importance of continuous surveillance, preventive measures such as vaccination in vulnerable populations, and treatment options, emphasizing equitable global health technology distribution.

Exploring antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibition in Eugenia L. extracts: a comprehensive phytochemical study.

This study analysed extracts obtained from the leaves of Eugenia uniflora, E. involucrata, and E. myrcianthes to determine their chemical composition, antioxidative properties, and α-glucosidase inhibitory capacity. By using liquid chromatography with a diode array detector, we identified chlorogenic acids, flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, saponins, and triterpenes in the extracts. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were found to be directly related to their total phenolic, flavonoid content and enzyme inhibition. The E. uniflora aqueous extract showed significant inhibition of α-glucosidase (IC50 0.98 µg mL-1), indicating its potential as a non-competitive inhibitor for managing Diabetes Mellitus. This study contributes to the existing knowledge on the chemical and biological aspects of Eugenia genus.

Assessing the Time Evolution of COVID-19 Effective Reproduction Number in Brazil.

In this paper, we use a Bayesian method to estimate the effective reproduction number ( R ( t ) ), in the context of monitoring the time evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil at different geographic levels. The focus of this study is to investigate the similarities between the trends in the evolution of such indicators at different subnational levels with the trends observed nationally. The underlying question addressed is whether national surveillance of such variables is enough to provide a picture of the epidemic evolution in the country or if it may hide important localized trends. This is particularly relevant in the scenario where health authorities use information obtained from such indicators in the design of non-pharmaceutical intervention policies to control the epidemic. A comparison between R ( t ) estimates and the moving average (MA) of daily reported infections is also presented, which is another commonly monitored variable. The analysis carried out in this paper is based on the data of confirmed infected cases provided by a public repository. The correlations between the time series of R ( t ) and MA in different geographic levels are assessed. Comparing national with subnational trends, higher degrees of correlation are found for the time series of R ( t ) estimates, compared to the MA time series. Nevertheless, differences between national and subnational trends are observed for both indicators, suggesting that local epidemiological surveillance would be more suitable as an input to the design of non-pharmaceutical intervention policies in Brazil, particularly for the least populated states.

Impact of nitrogen fertilizer sustainability on corn crop yield: the role of beneficial microbial inoculation interactions.

BACKGROUND: Considering the challenges posed by nitrogen (N) pollution and its impact on food security and sustainability, it is crucial to develop management techniques that optimize N fertilization in croplands. Our research intended to explore the potential benefits of co-inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense and Bacillus subtilis combined with N application rates on corn plants. The study focused on evaluating corn photosynthesis-related parameters, oxidative stress assay, and physiological nutrient use parameters. Focus was placed on the eventual improved capacity of plants to recover N from applied fertilizers (AFR) and enhance N use efficiency (NUE) during photosynthesis. The two-year field trial involved four seed inoculation treatments (control, A. brasilense, B. subtilis, and A. brasilense + B. subtilis) and five N application rates (0 to 240 kg N ha-1, applied as side-dress). RESULTS: Our results suggested that the combined effects of microbial consortia and adequate N-application rates played a crucial role in N-recovery; enhanced NUE; increased N accumulation, leaf chlorophyll index (LCI), and shoot and root growth; consequently improving corn grain yield. The integration of inoculation and adequate N rates upregulated CO2 uptake and assimilation, transpiration, and water use efficiency, while downregulated oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that the optimum N application rate could be reduced from 240 to 175 kg N ha-1 while increasing corn yield by 5.2%. Furthermore, our findings suggest that replacing 240 by 175 kg N ha-1 of N fertilizer (-65 kg N ha-1) with microbial consortia would reduce CO2 emission by 682.5 kg CO2 -e ha-1. Excessive N application, mainly with the presence of beneficial bacteria, can disrupt N-balance in the plant, alter soil and bacteria levels, and ultimately affect plant growth and yield. Hence, highlighting the importance of adequate N management to maximize the benefits of inoculation in agriculture and to counteract N loss from agricultural systems intensification.

Lipolytic production from solid-state fermentation of the filamentous fungus Penicillium polonicum and its applicability as biocatalyst in the synthesis of ethyl oleate.

Lipases represent versatile biocatalysts extensively employed in transesterification reactions for ester production. Ethyl oleate holds significance in biodiesel production, serving as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived diesel. In this study, our goal was to prospect lipase and assess its efficacy as a biocatalyst for ethyl oleate synthesis. For quantitative analysis, a base medium supplemented with Rhodamine B, olive oil, and Tween 80 was used. Solid-state fermentation utilized crambe seeds of varying particle sizes and humidity levels as substrates. In the synthesis of ethyl oleate, molar ratios of 1:3, 1:6, and 1:9, along with a total enzymatic activity of 60 U in n-heptane, were utilized at temperatures of 30 °C, 37 °C, and 44 °C. Reactions were conducted in a shaker at 200 rpm for 60 min. As a result, we first identified Penicillium polonicum and employed the method of solid-state fermentation using crambe seeds as a substrate to produce lipase. Our findings revealed heightened lipolytic activity (22.5 Ug-1) after 96 h of fermentation using crambe cake as the substrate. Optimal results were achieved with crambe seeds at a granulometry of 0.6 mm and a fermentation medium humidity of 60%. Additionally, electron microscopy suggested the immobilization of lipase in the substrate, enabling enzyme reuse for up to 4 cycles with 100% enzymatic activity. Subsequently, we conducted applicability tests of biocatalysts for ethyl oleate synthesis, optimizing parameters such as the acid/alcohol molar ratio, temperature, and reaction time. We attained 100% conversion within 30 min at 37 °C, and our results indicated that the molar ratio proportion did not significantly influence the outcome. These findings provide a methodological alternative for the utilization of biocatalysts in ethyl oleate synthesis.

Microbial synergies drive simultaneous biodegradation of ethoxy and alkyl chains of Nonylphenol Ethoxylate in fluidized bed reactors.

The widely-used surfactant Nonylphenol Ethoxylate (NPEO) produces endocrine-disrupting compounds during biodegradation, with these byproducts being more harmful than untreated NPEO. This study investigates the effectiveness of a Fluidized Bed Reactor (FBR) in reducing the production of 4-Nonylphenol (4-NP) during the biodegradation of NPEO. Two identical FBR filled with sand were used to assess the NPEO degradation and to enhance the microbial consortia capable of breaking down the complex byproducts, ethanol and fumarate were introduced as co-substrates. Our findings demonstrate the significant potential of the FBR, especially when coupled with fumarate, for enhancing the surfactant degradation. It outperforms the efficiency achieved with ethanol as the primary electron donor, albeit with a higher rate of byproduct production. Microbial community taxonomy and metabolic prediction revealed the high abundance of Geobacter (1.51-31.71%) and Methanobacterium (1.08-13.81%) in non-conductive sand. This may hint a new metabolic interaction and expand our understanding of Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer (DIET) in bioreactors applied to micropollutants degradation. Such an intricate relationship between facultative and anaerobes working together to simultaneously biodegrade the ethoxy and alkyl chains presents a new perspective on NPEO degradation and can potentially be extended to other micropollutants.

First Transcriptome Analysis of Hepatoblastoma in Brazil: Unraveling the Pivotal Role of Noncoding RNAs and Metabolic Pathways.

Hepatoblastoma stands as the most prevalent liver cancer in the pediatric population. Characterized by a low mutational burden, chromosomal and epigenetic alterations are key drivers of its tumorigenesis. Transcriptome analysis is a powerful tool for unraveling the molecular intricacies of hepatoblastoma, shedding light on the effects of genetic and epigenetic changes on gene expression. In this study conducted in Brazilian patients, an in-depth whole transcriptome analysis was performed on 14 primary hepatoblastomas, compared to control liver tissues. The analysis unveiled 1,492 differentially expressed genes (1,031 upregulated and 461 downregulated), including 920 protein-coding genes (62%). Upregulated biological processes were linked to cell differentiation, signaling, morphogenesis, and development, involving known hepatoblastoma-associated genes (DLK1, MEG3, HDAC2, TET1, HMGA2, DKK1, DKK4), alongside with novel findings (GYNG4, CDH3, and TNFRSF19). Downregulated processes predominantly centered around oxidation and metabolism, affecting amines, nicotinamides, and lipids, featuring novel discoveries like the repression of SYT7, TTC36, THRSP, CCND1, GCK and CAMK2B. Two genes, which displayed a concordant pattern of DNA methylation alteration in their promoter regions and dysregulation in the transcriptome, were further validated by RT-qPCR: the upregulated TNFRSF19, a key gene in the embryonic development, and the repressed THRSP, connected to lipid metabolism. Furthermore, based on protein-protein interaction analysis, we identified genes holding central positions in the network, such as HDAC2, CCND1, GCK, and CAMK2B, among others, that emerged as prime candidates warranting functional validation in future studies. Notably, a significant dysregulation of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), predominantly upregulated transcripts, was observed, with 42% of the top 50 highly expressed genes being ncRNAs. An integrative miRNA-mRNA analysis revealed crucial biological processes associated with metabolism, oxidation reactions of lipids and carbohydrates, and methylation-dependent chromatin silencing. In particular, four upregulated miRNAs (miR-186, miR-214, miR-377, and miR-494) played a pivotal role in the network, potentially targeting multiple protein-coding transcripts, including CCND1 and CAMK2B. In summary, our transcriptome analysis highlighted disrupted embryonic development as well as metabolic pathways, particularly those involving lipids, emphasizing the emerging role of ncRNAs as epigenetic regulators in hepatoblastomas. These findings provide insights into the complexity of the hepatoblastoma transcriptome and identify potential targets for future therapeutic interventions.

Towards a circular bioeconomy to produce methane by co-digestion of coffee and brewery waste using a mixture of anaerobic granular sludge and cattle manure as inoculum.

Coffee processing wastes, such as solid (pulp and husk) and wastewater, co-digested with industrial brewery wastewater, serve as excellent substrates for generating methane in the anaerobic digestion process. This study compared methane production using different compositions of cattle manure (CM) and granular sludge from an Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactor used in poultry wastewater treatment (GS). Four anaerobic batch reactors (500 mL) were assembled, A (50% CM and 50% GS), B (60% CM and 40% GS), C (70% CM and 30% of GS) and D (60% CM and 40% GS). Equal concentrations of substrates were added to all reactors: pulp and husk pretreated by hydrothermolysis (1 g L-1), coffee (10 g COD L-1) and brewery (1.5 g COD L-1) wastewaters. Assays A, B and C were supplemented with 2 g L-1 of yeast extract, except for assay D. The reactors were operated at 37 °C and pH 7.0. In assay B, the highest CH4 production of 759.15 ± 19.20 mL CH4 g-1 TS was observed, possibly favored by the synergistic interactions between cellulolytic bacteria Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Methanosaeta archaea, as inferred by genes encoding enzymes related to acetoclastic methanogenesis (acetyl-CoA synthetase). Consequently, the electricity production potential of assay B (45614.08 kWh-1 year-1) could meet the energy demand of a farm producing coffee and beer, contributing to a positive energy balance concerning methane generation.

Analysis of Self-Care Activities in Type 2 Diabetes in Brazil: Protocol for a Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that is growing worldwide. It is estimated that 15.7 million people aged between 20 and 79 years live with diabetes in Brazil, and the majority of cases are type 2 diabetes (T2D). To successfully manage diabetes, the patient needs to develop self-care activities. However, there is limited understanding of what self-care activities are performed by people with T2D in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify and map studies that evaluate self-care activities in T2D in Brazil. METHODS: This is a scoping review protocol structured according to the methodological guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Six databases and gray literature were used. The process of searching, identifying, and evaluating the papers was carried out by 2 independent reviewers, guided by the assumptions established by the Joanna Briggs Institute. We sought to answer the following guiding question: How are self-care activities for people with T2D evaluated in Brazil? We included papers and publications in any language, from public and private domains, and with different methodological approaches. RESULTS: Initial database searches produced a total of 681 results. These papers will be critically analyzed, and relevant information will be extracted. Quantitative and qualitative results of the papers reviewed will be presented to respond to the study's objective. We intend to publish the scoping review in the first half of 2024. CONCLUSIONS: The protocol for this scoping review will evaluate the main self-care activities carried out by adults and older people with T2D in Brazil. The results may help identify knowledge gaps and contribute to future research and diabetes education interventions. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/49105.

Juçara (Euterpe edulis Martius) improves time-to-exhaustion cycling performance and increased reduced glutathione: a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover, and triple-blind study.

To examine the effects of 7-days juçara powder (JP) intake on oxidative stress biomarkers and endurance and sprint cycling performances. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover, and triple-blind study, 20 male trained cyclists were assigned to intake 10 g of JP (240 mg anthocyanins) or placebo (PLA) for 7 days and performed a cycling time-to-exhaustion (TTE). A 5 s cycling sprint was performed before and after the cycling TTE. Blood oxidative stress biomarkers and lactate concentration where evaluated 1 h before (T-1), immediately after (T0), and 1 h after (T1) the cycling TTE. The mean duration time for the cycling TTE was 8.4 ± 6.0% (63 ± 17 s) longer in the JP condition (JP: 751 ± 283 s) compared to PLA (688 ± 266 s) (P < 0.019). Two-way repeated measures Analysis of variance showed an increase in the JP condition for reduced glutathione (GSH) (P = 0.049) at T0 (P = 0.039) and T1 (P = 0.029) compared to PLA with a moderate effect size at T0 (d = 0.61) and T1 (d = 0.57). Blood lactate levels increased over time in both conditions (P ≤ 0.001). No differences were observed for the post-TTE sprint fatigue index, total phenols, protein carbonyls, and glutathione peroxidase activity. Seven-day intake of JP improved cycling endurance performance and increased GSH levels but had no effect on lactate and cycling sprint-induced fatigue.

Kinetic modeling and optimization of the mono- and diglycerides synthesis mediated by the lipase Lipozyme® TL 100 L immobilized on clayey support.

Mono- and diglycerides play a crucial role in the food industry as multifunctional food additives and emulsifiers. Their importance stems from their unique properties, which allow them to improve the quality, texture, and stability of various food products. Here, results of the kinetic modeling of the mono- and diglycerides synthesis mediated by the lipase Lipozyme® TL 100 L immobilized on the clayey support Spectrogel® type C are reported. The support was characterized by TEM, SEM, and FTIR. Firstly, the influence of pH and lipase load on the immobilization process was analyzed, resulting in an enzymatic activity of 93.2 ± 0.7 U g-1 under optimized conditions (170.9 U g-1 of lipase and pH of 7.1). Afterward, the effects of reaction temperature and concentration of immobilized biocatalyst in the feedstock conversion were evaluated. At optimized parameters, a triglycerides conversion of 97% was obtained at 36.5 °C, 7.9 vol.% of enzyme, a glycerol to feedstock molar ratio of 2:1, and 2 h. The optimized conditions were used to determine the kinetic constants of the elementary reactions involved in the glycerolysis, where a fit superior to 0.99 was achieved between experimental values and predicted data.

Biomechanical, physiological and anthropometrical predictors of performance in recreational runners.

Background: The maximal running speed (VMAX) determined on a graded treadmill test is well-recognized as a running performance predictor. However, few studies have assessed the variables that predict VMAX in recreationally active runners. Methods: We used a mathematical procedure combining Fick's law and metabolic cost analysis to verify the relation between (1) VMAX versus anthropometric and physiological determinants of running performance and, (2) theoretical metabolic cost versus running biomechanical parameters. Linear multiple regression and bivariate correlation were applied. We aimed to verify the biomechanical, physiological, and anthropometrical determinants of VMAX in recreationally active runners. Fifteen recreationally active runners participated in this observational study. A Conconi and a stead-steady running test were applied using a heart rate monitor and a simple video camera to register the physiological and mechanical variables, respectively. Results: Statistical analysis revealed that the speed at the second ventilatory threshold, theoretical metabolic cost, and fat-mass percentage confidently estimated the individual running performance as follows: VMAX = 58.632 + (-0.183 * fat percentage) + (-0.507 * heart rate percentage at second ventilatory threshold) + (7.959 * theoretical metabolic cost) (R2 = 0.62, p = 0.011, RMSE = 1.50 km.h-1). Likewise, the theoretical metabolic cost was significantly explained (R2 = 0.91, p = 0.004, RMSE = 0.013 a.u.) by the running spatiotemporal and elastic-related parameters (contact and aerial times, stride length and frequency, and vertical oscillation) as follows: theoretical metabolic cost = 10.421 + (4.282 * contact time) + (-3.795 * aerial time) + (-2.422 * stride length) + (-1.711 * stride frequency) + (0.107 * vertical oscillation). Conclusion: Critical determinants of elastic mechanism, such as maximal vertical force and vertical and leg stiffness were unrelated to the metabolic economy. VMAX, a valuable marker of running performance, and its physiological and biomechanical determinants can be effectively evaluated using a heart rate monitor, treadmill, and a digital camera, which can be used in the design of training programs to recreationally active runners.

Whey Protein, Vitamins C and E Decrease Interleukin-10 in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients: A Pioneer, Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of supplementation with whey protein combined with vitamins C and E on inflammatory markers in hemodialysis (HD) patients. DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a pioneer, randomized and double-blinded study. Patients were randomized into two groups and stratified by HD frequency. The supplementation group received 20 g of whey protein, 250 mg of vitamin C, and 600 IU of vitamin E; the placebo group, 20 g of rice flour, and microcrystalline cellulose capsules. The interventions were given after HD, 3 times a week, for 8 weeks. The inflammatory markers were assessed: interleukin (IL) IL-12p70, IL-10, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. For statistical analysis, the χ2 test, Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney test, analysis of variance for repeated two-way measurements, paired t test, and Wilcoxon test were performed. P < .05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Twenty-three patients completed the study. No significant differences were found in inflammatory markers when comparing the groups postintervention. In the intragroup was a decrease in IL-10 in the supplementation group after 8 weeks (P = .0382). IL-6 tended to decrease by 810.95% in the supplementation group and increased by 732.8% (nonsignificant) in the placebo group. CONCLUSION: Whey protein combined with vitamins C and E significantly reduced IL-10 in the supplementation group and could be beneficial to reduce IL-6 in HD patients. Future studies are suggested with a larger sample size, different supplementation doses, and longer interventions.

Exotic fruits patents trends: An overview based on technological prospection with a focus on Amazonian.

The Amazon rainforest encompasses one of the largest biodiversities of the world and is home to a wide variety of food and therapeutic plants. Due to the diversity of components, the fruits of the Amazon biome possess essential physicochemical, nutritional, and pharmacological properties, strengthening the idea that fruit consumption may provide benefits to human health. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the current scenario of the use of Amazonian fruits on the development of food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or cosmetic products through the study of filed patents. A prospecting strategy conducted focusing on patents was used to investigate the application of the following fruits: Euterpe oleracea, Oenocarpus bacaba, Caryocar brasiliense, Garcinia gardneriana, Nephelium lappaceum, and Astrocaryum vulgare. A total of 264 patent documents were found. In 2016, a peak of 33 applications was reached, followed by a peak in 2019 with 32 applications. The study is distributed in three main application areas: cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. The Asian continent was the region with the world leadership in this theme, followed by Brazil. Thus, technological prospection studies can foster investments in translational research to elucidate the effects and properties of Amazonian fruits, which can generate sustainable development of new products with industrial potential.

Promoting ocean literacy among students in Brazilian schools.

Promoting the principles, concepts, and dimensions of Ocean Literacy (OL) among children and youth is essential for enhancing society's understanding of the ocean's complexity and the causes and consequences of its degradation. This study details a project conducted over a year with 235 students from a public school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, aged 8 to 15. Developed in partnership with schoolteachers, the activities encompassed theoretical lessons, laboratory experiments, field trips, and reading circles. These were grounded in the students' local context and integrated into the school curriculum. The project was evaluated through questionnaires and focus group interviews. Findings revealed not only learning and changes in attitude but also increased student engagement and a revitalized school environment. This project can be adapted for other regions and audiences.