Association of SO2-Generating Pads before Packaging and during Cold Storage to Extend the Conservation of 'Italia' Table Grapes.

The SO2-generating pads contain different concentrations of sodium metabisulfite, which absorbs water from the grapes' transpiration, releasing SO2 gas, and there are slow-(SlowSO2) and dual (DualSO2)-releasing pads (fast release in the first 48 h and slow for up to 60 days). The ultra-fast SO2-generating pad (FieldSO2) releases the SO2 quickly for up to 6 h, and it was designed to be used soon after the harvest and until the grapes' packaging. The goal was to study the effect of FieldSO2 associated with SlowSO2 and DualSO2 pads on gray mold incidence and physicochemical and appearance characteristics of 'Italia' table grapes. Grapes were harvested from a commercial vineyard in Parana, Brazil, in 2020 and 2021, and packaged in cardboard boxes, and the treatments were as follows: control (without SO2-generating pads); FieldSO2 + SlowSO2; and FieldSO2 + DualSO2. After 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 days of cold storage (1 ± 1 °C), the grapes were assessed for gray mold incidence, mass loss, shattered berries, stem browning, and filamentous fungi on the surface. The use of FieldSO2 associated with SO2-generating pads is effective in controlling gray mold on 'Italia' table grapes, especially the treatment FieldSO2 + DualSO2, which provides the lowest incidence of the disease up to 90 days of cold storage, while the combination with SlowSO2 results in intermediate efficacy. Treatments combining these SO2-generating pads extend the postharvest shelf life of 'Italia' grapes, with few shattered berries, low mass loss and freshness of the rachis without impairing the bunch's appearance.

Marine plastic pollution: A systematic review of management strategies through a macroscope approach.

Alternatives to address the ocean plastic crisis have been a hot topic in scientific literature, although a systemic approach to assess their effectiveness and identify bottlenecks is still lacking. To contribute to discussions on this topic, this study aims to conduct a literature review on current scientific information regarding management strategies for marine plastic pollution. The PRISMA method was used to select the most relevant articles from the Scopus® database, resulting in a sample of 176 articles after applying exclusion criteria for full-text evaluation. Unlike other literature review studies, Odum's Macroscope is used here to develop a model that provides a systemic view of the plastic crisis on a large scale, encompassing various compartments and their interactions. Specifically, eight compartments are identified: industry, consumers, waste collection & management, freshwater systems, fisheries, aquaculture and shipping, marine ecosystems, marine plastic collection and recycling, and life cycle. Each piece of literature reviewed is categorized into one of these compartments and discussed accordingly. The highlights of the results indicate that: (i) waste collection & management and freshwater systems, which are primary pathways for plastic litter reaching the ocean, have been relatively under-investigated compared to other compartments. (ii) Most studies originate from developed countries, raising doubts about the effectiveness of management proposals in underdeveloped countries. (ii) Existing strategies for collecting and recycling marine litter are unlikely to be implemented at a large scale due to operational obstacles, thus offering insufficient mitigation for the plastic crisis. (iv) The development of new biomaterials has proven mostly ineffective and harmful. (v) Alternatives management for microplastic pollution are still in their infancy, resulting in scarce information across all compartments. (vi) No studies focus on the origin of the plastic issue, which lies in the petrochemical industry. From a general perspective, the literature indicates that there is no one-size-fits-all management strategy to the plastic crisis, and the available options are often scattered and disconnected, making a systemic approach essential for studying such a transboundary issue. While efforts exist, stakeholders must act to effectively address the problem, or at least make meaningful progress. The marine plastic crisis operates systemically, analogous to the climate crisis, both stemming from human dependence on fossil fuels. Similar to achieving carbon neutrality, designing a globally sustainable economy should prioritize achieving plastic neutrality as a core component.

Microplastics in marine sponges (Porifera) along a highly urbanized estuarine gradient in Santos, Brazil.

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitously found in environmental matrices, particularly affecting aquatic systems. While several marine species have been widely used to assess MP contamination, sponges (Porifera) are less used. The MPs contamination was assessed in the sun sponge (Hymeniacidon heliophila) along a gradient at the Santos Estuarine System (Brazil). A 14-fold difference between concentrations (particles g-1) was verified between the most (1.40 ± 0.81) and least (0.10 ± 0.12) contaminated sites, confirming the local contamination gradient. The MPs found were primarily polypropylene, small (1.2-1000 µm), fibrous, and colored. Considering total concentrations, sizes and shapes these spatial patterns were similar those previously detected in molluscs obtained in the same sites. On the other hand, they differed in polymeric composition and color categories. Such findings give important initial insights into the potential role of marine sponges as putative sentinels of MPs contamination.

Remote sensing detection of plastic-mulched farmland using a temporal approach in machine learning: case study in tomato crops.

The increasing use of plastics in rural environments has led to concerns about agricultural plastic waste (APW). However, the plasticulture information gap hinders waste management planning and may lead to plastic residue leakage into the environment with consequent microplastic formation. The location and estimated quantity of the APW are crucial for territorial planning and public policies regarding land use and waste management. Agri-plastic remote detection has attracted increased attention but requires a consensus approach, particularly for mapping plastic-mulched farmlands (PMFs) scattered across vast areas. This article tests whether a streamlined time-series approach minimizes PMF confusion with the background using less processing. Based on the literature, we performed a vast assessment of machine learning techniques and investigated the importance of features in mapping tomato PMF. We evaluated pixel-based and object-based classifications in harmonized Sentinel-2 level-2A images, added plastic indices, and compared six classifiers. The best result showed an overall accuracy of 99.7% through pixel-based using the multilayer perceptron (MLP) classifier. The 3-time series with a 30-day composite exhibited increased accuracy, a decrease in background confusion, and was a viable alternative for overcoming the impact of cloud cover on images at certain times of the year in our study area, which leads to a potentially reliable methodology for APW mapping for future studies. To our knowledge, the presented PMF map is the first for Latin America. This represents a first step toward promoting the circularity of all agricultural plastic in the region, minimizing the impacts of degradation on the environment.

Melanoma arising in a child with a medium-sized congenital melanocytic nevus.

Pediatric melanomas are rare and some of them may arise on giant congenital melanocytic nevi. The risk of developing melanoma on a medium-sized nevus is not clear but is thought to be very rare. Proliferative cellular nodules which mimic malignant melanoma may pose significant diagnostic challenges. We report the case of a 9-year-old patient who developed a melanoma on a medium-sized congenital melanocytic nevus on the tip of the nose, requiring a complex surgery with excellent aesthetic results.

Los melanomas en pediatría son raros y algunos de ellos pueden surgir sobre nevos melanocíticos congénitos gigantes. El riesgo de desarrollar melanoma en un nevo de tamaño mediano no está claro, pero se cree que es muy raro. Los nódulos proliferativos celulares, que imitan al melanoma, pueden plantear importantes desafíos diagnósticos. Presentamos el caso de una paciente de 9 años que desarrolló un melanoma sobre un nevo melanocítico congénito de tamaño mediano en la punta de la nariz, que requirió un procedimiento quirúrgico complejo con excelentes resultados estéticos.

Fatores preditivos da permanência em uma Unidade de Queimados / Factors predicting burn unit length-of-stay

Introdução: A taxa de mortalidade em pacientes queimados diminuiu significativamente, tornando importante avaliar outros desfechos, como o tempo de internação, que aumenta a morbidade física e psicológica, o risco de infecção hospitalar e os custos financeiros. O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a relevância de vários fatores no tempo de internação na Unidade de Queimados. Método: Foram incluídos neste estudo 711 pacientes admitidos entre 2011 e 2020 na Unidade de Queimados do Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal. Os dados coletados foram analisados utilizando o PSPP para Windows. Resultados: Os pacientes eram predominantemente do sexo masculino, com idade média de 54 anos. O tempo médio de permanência hospitalar foi de 29 dias. Os fatores que prolongaram a estadia hospitalar foram relacionados à gravidade da queimadura, ao número de cirurgias e ao tempo decorrido até a primeira cirurgia, valores laboratoriais alterados tanto no perfil hematológico quanto químico durante a hospitalização, e a presença e o número de infecções documentadas. Conclusão: Existem fatores potencialmente modificáveis que infiuenciam o tempo de permanência hospitalar. Nosso estudo nos permite concluir que o tempo decorrido até a primeira intervenção cirúrgica e a presença e o número de infecções documentadas prolongam significativamente esse desfecho, e ênfase deve ser dada à implementação de medidas que favoreçam a intervenção cirúrgica precoce e o controle rigoroso de infecções.

Introduction: Burn patients' mortality rate has decreased significantly, making it important to evaluate other outcomes, such as length-of-stay, which increases physical and psychological morbidity, risk of nosocomial infection, and financial costs. The objective of this study is to analyze the relevance of several factors in the Burn Unit length-of-stay. Material and Methods: 711 patients were included in this study, admitted between 2011 and 2020 to the Burn Unit at São José Hospital, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal. Collected data was analyzed using PSPP for Windows. Results: Patients included in the study were predominantly males, with a mean age of 54 years. The mean length of stay was 29 days. The factors that prolonged in-hospital stay were those related to the severity of the burn, the number of surgeries and the time elapsed until the first one, altered laboratory values in both hematologic and chemistry profile during the hospitalization, and the presence and number of documented infections. Conclusion: There are potentially modifiable factors that influence length-of-stay. Our study allows us to conclude that the time elapsed until the first surgical intervention and the presence and number of documented infections significantly prolong this outcome, and emphasis should be given to the implementation of measures that favor early surgical intervention and strict infection control.

Tratamento cirúrgico de queloides: Ressecção total ou parcial? / Surgical treatment of keloids: Total or partial resection?

Introdução: Atualmente, a aplicação de triancinolona intralesional com a excisão cirúrgica é considerada o tratamento mais satisfatório para queloides, com baixa taxa de recorrência. Método: Realizado estudo de casos contemplando cirurgias reparadoras de pacientes com queloides em lóbulos de orelhas bilateralmente, operados pelo mesmo cirurgião plástico no período de julho de 2018 a janeiro de 2021 no Hospital Regional de Sobradinho em Brasília-DF. Ressecou-se parcialmente a cicatriz queloideana (intralesional), deixando margens de queloide na ferida operatória e comparou-se com a resposta após ressecção total (justalesional) de uma outra cicatriz em um mesmo paciente. Foi realizada aplicação de triancinolona no pré-operatório, com total de 4 aplicações a intervalos de 4 semanas entre cada sessão e no pós-operatório imediato, mantendo aplicação a cada 30 dias por 6 meses. Nenhum paciente havia realizado tratamentos prévios para queloides. As cicatrizes foram avaliadas no pós-operatório pelo cirurgião principal por um período de 12 meses. Resultados: Quatro de 11 pacientes tiveram algum tipo de recidiva, totalizando 36% de recidiva em nosso trabalho. A excisão total do queloide (orelha esquerda) teve mais recidivas do que o lado contralateral em que foi deixada margem de 1mm de queloide na cicatriz (orelha direita). Conclusão: No presente estudo observamos que, quando associada ao tratamento com triancinolona no pré, intra e pós-operatório, a excisão parcial do queloide apresentou menores taxas de recidiva local quando comparada à excisão total do queloide.

Introduction: Currently, the application of intralesional triamcinolone with surgical excision is considered the most satisfactory treatment for keloids, with a low recurrence rate. Method: A case study was carried out covering reconstructive surgeries for patients with bilateral earlobe keloids, operated by the same plastic surgeon from July 2018 to January 2021 at the Hospital Regional de Sobradinho in Brasília-DF. The keloid scar (intralesional) was partially resected, leaving keloid margins in the surgical wound, and compared with the response after total resection (juxtalesional) of another scar in the same patient. Triamcinolone was applied preoperatively, with a total of 4 applications at intervals of 4 weeks between each session and in the immediate postoperative period, maintaining application every 30 days for 6 months. No patient had undergone previous treatments for keloids. Scars were evaluated postoperatively by the primary surgeon over a period of 12 months. Results: Four of 11 patients had some type of recurrence, totaling 36% of recurrence in our study. Total excision of the keloid (left ear) had more recurrences than the contralateral side where a 1mm margin of keloid was left in the scar (right ear). Conclusion: In the present study, we observed that when associated with treatment with triamcinolone pre-, intra-, and postoperatively, partial excision of the keloid presented lower rates of local recurrence when compared to total excision of the keloid.

Avaliação psicológica em cirurgia plástica pósbariátrica: Uma revisão de escopo / Psychological assessment in post-bariatric plastic surgery: A scoping review

Introdução: A obesidade pode acarretar consequências físicas, psicológicas e sociais. A cirurgia bariátrica tem o potencial de melhorar a condição biopsicossocial do paciente. No entanto, o excesso de pele após uma perda de peso rápida e significativa pode causar sofrimento psicológico. A cirurgia plástica, como o único procedimento capaz de remover o excesso de pele, tem o potencial de aperfeiçoar a autoimagem. Além disso, ela pode incentivar o controle do peso. Este estudo investigou, por meio de uma revisão de escopo, se a avaliação psicológica básica, realizada durante a triagem pelo cirurgião plástico, é capaz de identificar o sofrimento psicológico em pacientes que desejam se submeter a cirurgia plástica após a bariátrica. Método: Foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico, abrangendo artigos publicados entre 2013 e 2023, nos idiomas português, inglês e espanhol, nas Bases de dados MEDLINE, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) e Embase. Resultados: Na estratégia de busca, 48 artigos atenderam os critérios de inclusão e 18 artigos foram mencionados neste estudo. Conclusão: A avaliação psicológica realizada na triagem do cirurgião plástico permite identificar o sofrimento decorrente do excesso de pele pós-cirurgia bariátrica e o sofrimento psicológico prévio. Isso facilita a decisão médica sobre encaminhar ou não o paciente para avaliação psicológica especializada. Essa abordagem amplia a compreensão do paciente sobre a relação entre corpo e mente.

Introduction: Obesity can have physical, psychological, and social consequences. Bariatric surgery has the potential to improve the patient's biopsychosocial condition. However, excess skin after rapid and significant weight loss can cause psychological distress. Plastic surgery, as the only procedure capable of removing excess skin, has the potential to improve self-image. Additionally, it can encourage weight control. This study investigated, through a scoping review, whether the basic psychological assessment, carried out during screening by the plastic surgeon, is capable of identifying psychological distress in patients who wish to undergo plastic surgery after bariatric surgery. Method: A bibliographic survey was carried out, covering articles published between 2013 and 2023, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, in the MEDLINE, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Embase databases. Results: In the search strategy, 48 articles met the inclusion criteria, and 18 articles were mentioned in this study. Conclusion: The psychological assessment carried out during plastic surgeon screening allows the identification of suffering resulting from excess skin after bariatric surgery and previous psychological suffering. This facilitates the medical decision about whether or not to refer the patient for specialized psychological evaluation. This approach broadens the patient's understanding of the relationship between body and mind.

Fontes de energia externa no contorno corporal / External energy sources in body contouring

Durante a 39a Jornada Sulbrasileira de Cirurgia Plástica, em abril de 2024, um debate acalorado surgiu em torno da divulgação do uso de tecnologias para cirurgia de contorno corporal nas redes sociais. Um importante questionamento foi feito: elas estão sendo divulgadas prematuramente nas redes sociais antes de serem rigorosamente avaliadas? A frase do Dr. Ian Malcolm, célebre criação de Michael Chrichton, "Vou te dizer o problema com o poder que você está usando aqui, ele não exigiu nenhuma disciplina para obtê-lo" se aplica perfeitamente a essa situação. A divulgação de técnicas em redes sociais deveria exigir a mesma disciplina rigorosa que a pesquisa científica. A ausência de protocolos de pesquisa aprovados pelo Conselho Nacional de Ética em Pesquisa e de publicações de alto nível de evidência em revistas revisadas por pares levanta preocupações. O poder de aprimorar nossos resultados com o uso dessas fontes de energia externa é real e seu uso consiste em um grande avanço dentro da cirurgia plástica. No entanto, é imperativo que os cirurgiões plásticos exerçam cautela ao promover novas tecnologias. A disciplina científica deve ser o alicerce de qualquer avanço, e a divulgação responsável deve preceder a popularização. Somente assim, poderemos garantir que os pacientes se beneficiem de tratamentos seguros e eficazes, sem comprometer a integridade da nossa especialidade.

During the 39th South Brazilian Plastic Surgery Conference, in April 2024, a heated debate arose regarding the promotion of the use of technologies for body contouring surgery on social media. An important question was raised: are they being prematurely promoted on social media before being rigorously evaluated? The quote from Dr. Ian Malcolm, a famous creation of Michael Chrichton, "I'll tell you the problem with the power you're using here, it didn't require any discipline to attain it" applies perfectly to this situation. Promoting techniques on social media should require the same rigorous discipline as scientific research. The absence of research protocols approved by the National Research Ethics Council and high-level evidence publications in peer- reviewed journals raises concerns. The power to enhance our results using these external energy sources is real, and its use represents a significant advancement within plastic surgery. However, it is imperative that plastic surgeons exercise caution when promoting new technologies. Scientific discipline should be the foundation of any advancement, and responsible disclosure should precede popularization. Only then can we ensure that patients benefit from safe and effective treatments without compromising the integrity of our specialty.

Sistematização de flancoplastia baseada na anatomia cirúrgica / Flankplasty systematization based on surgical anatomy

Introdução: O estudo explora a cirurgia de contorno corporal em pacientes submetidos a cirurgias bariátricas. Nos últimos anos, esse tipo de intervenção cirúrgica ganhou destaque devido ao aumento na busca por procedimentos reparadores após significativa perda de peso. O texto enfatiza a importância da flancoplastia, técnica que visa melhorar o contorno corporal. Métodos: Foi realizada revisão da literatura para elucidação da anatomia da gordura profunda da fáscia toracolombar, e feito um paralelo com a técnica de flancoplastia utilizada em nosso serviço em pacientes pós-bariátricos submetidos a abdominoplastia 360° ou 270° no Hospital Daher Lago Sul, em Brasília- DF. Resultados: A lipoaspiração profunda dos flancos, muitas vezes necessária em cirurgias de contorno corporal, pode não ser suficiente para retirar a gordura profunda à fáscia toracolombar e durante esse procedimento observa-se risco aumentado de lesões retroperitoneais. No entanto, a flancoplastia, que envolve a ressecção da gordura profunda à fáscia toracolombar, demonstrou proporcionar resultados satisfatórios e minimizar esses riscos. Conclusão: O estudo enfoca a importância do conhecimento anatômico preciso, destacando a relevância da flancoplastia como uma técnica valiosa para melhorar os resultados estéticos e reduzir complicações em pacientes pós-bariátricos, complementando a cirurgia bariátrica e melhorando a qualidade de vida do paciente.

Introduction: The study explores body contouring surgery in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. In recent years, this type of surgical intervention has gained prominence due to the increase in the search for reparative procedures after significant weight loss. The text emphasizes the importance of flankplasty, a technique that aims to improve body contour. Methods: A literature review was carried out to elucidate the anatomy of the deep fat of the thoracolumbar fascia, and a parallel was made with the flankplasty technique used in our service in post-bariatric patients undergoing 360° or 270° abdominoplasty at Daher Lago Sul Hospital, in Brasília-DF. Results: Deep liposuction of the flanks, often necessary in body contouring surgeries, may not be sufficient to remove fat deep into the thoracolumbar fascia and during this procedure, there is an increased risk of retroperitoneal injuries. However, flankplasty, which involves resection of fat deep into the thoracolumbar fascia, has been shown to provide satisfactory results and minimize these risks. Conclusion: The study focuses on the importance of precise anatomical knowledge, highlighting the relevance of flankplasty as a valuable technique to improve aesthetic results and reduce complications in post-bariatric patients, complementing bariatric surgery and improving the patient's quality of life.

Felicidade dos cirurgiões plásticos em São Paulo, Brasil: Um estudo transversal entre os membros da Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica - SBCP-SP / Happiness of plastic surgeons in São Paulo, Brazil: A cross-sectional study of the Brazilian Plastic Surgery Society - SBCP-SP

Introdução: A carreira do cirurgião é desafiadora, pesquisas científicas identificaram uma prevalência de burnout em cerca de 1/3 dos cirurgiões plásticos. Estudos científicos anteriores sobre esse tópico têm se concentrado nos aspectos negativos do trabalho na área médica. Os dados de bem-estar e dos fatores associados à maior felicidade disponíveis, específicos para cirurgia plástica, são inconsistentes e limitados. O objetivo é avaliar a felicidade do cirurgião plástico do estado de São Paulo e quais fatores estão associados à maior felicidade. Método: Estudo primário, observacional, descritivo e transversal. Foi realizada uma pesquisa on-line utilizando um instrumento validado, a Escala de Felicidade Subjetiva (EFS), que foi enviado aos membros da Regional São Paulo da Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (SBCP-SP) entre dezembro de 2020 e julho de 2021. Características sociodemográficas e ocupacionais foram relacionadas ao grau de felicidade mensurado. Resultados: A taxa de resposta foi de 12,18%, n=268, sendo 70,1% do sexo masculino e 29,9% do feminino. O escore obtido através da EFS foi de 5,51±0,13 e a média do escore para o sexo masculino foi de 5,49 e para o sexo feminino de 5,57. 143 (53,36%) dos participantes são membros associados e 125 (46,64%) membros titulares da SBCP. 177 (66,04%) afirmaram que, caso pudessem voltar atrás, escolheriam novamente a cirurgia plástica como especialidade, 62 (23,13%) que talvez, e 27 (10,82%) que não. Conclusão: A cirurgia plástica no estado de São Paulo, Brasil, possibilita aos profissionais da especialidade uma carreira com altos índices de felicidade, inclusive para o sexo feminino.

Introduction: The career of the surgeon is challenging, and scientific research has identified a prevalence of burnout in approximately 1/3 of plastic surgeons. The data on well-being and factors associated with greater happiness available specifically to plastic surgery are inconsistent and limited. The objective is to evaluate the happiness of plastic surgeons in São Paulo and which factors are associated with greater happiness. Method: This was a primary, observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. An online survey was conducted using a validated instrument, the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), which was sent to members of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery-São Paulo (SBCP-SP) from December 2020 to July 2021. Sociodemographic and occupational characteristics were related to the degree of happiness measured. Results: The response rate was 12.18%, n = 268, with 70.1% males and 29.9% females. The score obtained using the SHS was 5.51 ± 0.13, and the mean score for males was 5.49 and for females was 5.57. A total of 143 (53.36%) of the participants were associate members, and 125 (46.64%) were full members of the SBCP. A total of 177 (66.04%) stated that if they could go back in time, they would choose plastic surgery again as a specialty, 62 (23.13%) perhaps, and 27 (10.82%) said that they would not. Conclusion: Plastic surgery in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, allows professionals in the specialty to have a career with high levels of happiness, including for females.

Seabirds as biovectors in the transport of plastic debris across ecosystem borders: A case study from the Humboldt Current Upwelling System.

Seabirds have become biovectors of plastic pollutants between marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and transport of plastics to their nesting sites becomes relevant due to increasing levels of pollution. To determine the pathways by which plastic reaches their colonies, we analysed the abundance of plastics at the nesting sites of five seabird species (Humboldt penguin Spheniscus humboldti, Peruvian booby Sula variegata, kelp gull Larus dominicanus, grey gull Leucophaeus modestus, Markham's storm-petrel Hydrobates markhami) nesting in northern Chile. Seabirds were primarily grouped according to their nesting behaviour, but two species foraging in contrasting habitats (kelp gull and Markham's storm-petrel) were also compared directly. The abundance, type, and polymer of macro-, meso- and microplastics were analysed in the soil of colonies and control sites, and microplastic ingestion was evaluated for selected species. Densities of plastics in colonies of surface-nesting seabirds ranged from 0 to 21.4 items m-2 (mainly plastic bags and thin films), and 0.002 to 19.7 items m-2 (mainly hard fragments) in colonies of burrow-nesting seabirds. Mean microplastic loads in the stomachs of seabirds were between 3.7 ± 4.2 plastic items individual-1. Overall, the abundances of plastic items in all seabird colonies were low, suggesting a limited transfer of plastics from sea to land. For kelp gulls, the results indicate transfer of macroplastic items to colonies, reaching the colony via regurgitates, with landfills considered as the main plastic source. Our results suggest that contrasting nesting behaviour and foraging habitats among species can explain differential plastic accumulation in seabird colonies, but also other factors, such as wind, contribute to the accumulation of plastic debris in colonies. Proper management of sanitary landfills are key to reduce plastic contamination of coastal seabirds and their colonies.

Consumption and Digestion of Plastics by Greater Hive Moth Larvae.

The accumulation and unsustainable management of plastic waste generate environmental pollution that affects ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. We studied the possibility of using the consumption and digestion of oxo-biodegradable, compostable plastics and polypropylene from face masks by the fifth-instar larvae of G. mellonella as a strategy for the sustainable management of plastic waste. We used Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR) to determine the percentage of consumption and presence of microplastics in the digestive tract and excreta for 10 treatments evaluated for 135 h. The effects of plastics on the continuity of the life cycle of the greater hive moth were also determined. We established that the larvae fragmented and consumed 35.2 ± 23% of the plastics evaluated, with significant differences between treatments. Larvae were able to consume more of the intermediate layers of masks (86.31%) than the other plastics. However, none of the plastics were digested. Instead, microplastics accumulated in the excreta, resulting in nutritional deficits that affected the continuity of the life cycle, including the induction of the early formation of pupae after 24 h and a reduction in the number of eggs laid by the females.

Plant-Based Films for Food Packaging as a Plastic Waste Management Alternative: Potato and Cassava Starch Case.

The escalating environmental impact of plastic packaging waste necessitates sustainable alternatives in food packaging. This study explores starch-based films derived from cassava and potato as viable substitutes, aiming to mitigate plastic pollution and enhance environmental sustainability. Utilizing a casting method, formulations optimized by CCRD were characterized for their physical, physicochemical, and morphological properties. Comprehensive analysis revealed both cassava and potato starch films to exhibit robust structural integrity, high tensile strength (up to 32.6 MPa for cassava starch films), and semi-crystalline morphology. These films demonstrated low water vapor permeability and moderate solubility, akin to conventional low-density polyethylene used in packaging. Differential scanning calorimetry indicated glass transition temperatures between 116.36 °C and 119.35 °C, affirming thermal stability suitable for packaging applications. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed homogeneous film surfaces, with cassava starch films (C4-15) exhibiting superior transparency and uniformity. X-ray diffraction corroborated the films' semi-crystalline nature, unaffected by sorbitol content variations. Despite their mechanical and thermal suitability, further enhancements in thermal degradation resistance are essential for broader thermoprocessing applicability. These findings underscore the potential of starch-based films to be used as lids or other part of a food package, decreasing the plastic dependency in food packaging, contributing decisively to waste reduction and environmental preservation.

Marine macrolitter and cigarette butts hazard multiple-use marine protected area and fishing community at Brazil.

Wide marine litter (ML) contamination impacts human health and economic sectors including fishing, navigation, and tourism. Perequê beach, Brazil, is an authentic fishing community within a touristic multiple-use marine protected area. However, no ML contamination monitoring were so far performed in the region. This study evaluated the spatiotemporal abundance, composition, sources, and associated ML hazards at Perequê beach using a multi-index approach. The 2579 items (0.64 ± 0.72 items.m-2) yielded a high contamination level (CCI = 12.6 ± 14.4) with plastic (44.6-50.9 %) and cigarette butts (20.6-28.4 %) prevalence, while primary sources were smoking (cigarette butts, lighters, others-21.2-30.1 %) and packaging (17.8-22.8 %). Levels of pollutants leaked from cigarette butts (CBPI = 30.5 ± 47.5) and hazardous items (HALI = 3.06 ± 2.64) were among the highest globally. Heightened levels occurred in summer, at dry sand strip, where short-term buoyant items prevailed. Multi-indexing approaches offer valuable insights for local authorities to implement mitigation programs, while contributing to global discussions, promoting awareness, and facilitating replicability.

Contamination by microplastics and sorbed organic pollutants in the surface waters of the Tietê River, São Paulo-SP, Brazil.

Microplastics (MPs) are particles between 1 µm and 5 mm in size, originating mainly from poor solid waste and effluent management, that can reach water bodies from various sources. In freshwater environments, the occurrence, distribution, and characterization of this new class of pollutants are still little explored, especially in Brazil. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of MPs, as well as the presence and concentration of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) sorbed to these particles in the surface waters of the Tietê River - SP. Surface water samples were collected in duplicate during the dry and wet seasons. The identification and characterization of the MPs was carried out through visual inspection and the chemical identity of the particles was verified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR). For the analysis of PCBs adsorbed to the MPs, the sample extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The MPs were found in concentrations ranging from 6.67 to 1530 particles m-3, with a predominance of the polymers polyethylene (PE, with 58.17 %) and polypropylene (PP, with 23.53 %). The main morphological categories identified were fragments (56.63 %), fibers (28.42 %), and transparent films (13.06 %). Higher abundances of PCBs were observed in the lower size range, between 0.106 and 0.35 mm. The total concentrations of PCBs in MPs ranged from 20.53 to 133.12 ng g-1. The results obtained here are relevant for understanding the dynamics and level of contamination of MPs and organic pollutants sorbed to these particles in the Tietê River, as well as helping with mitigation measures for the restoration and preservation of this ecosystem.

Current status of prepectoral breast reconstruction in Argentina.

Breast cancer is among the most common cancers diagnosed in women, affecting one in eight women per year. Immediate implant-based breast reconstruction has emerged as the predominant approach for postmastectomy reconstruction, with a growing preference for the direct-to-implant (DTI) method over the traditional tissue expander technique. While conventionally, implants were typically positioned beneath the pectoralis major muscle, recent advancements have paved the way for implant placement above the muscle, in the prepectoral plane. Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) and skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) techniques can be combined with prepectoral breast reconstruction. The presence of sufficient fatty tissue coverage is considered one of the foremost independent factors influencing the success of immediate breast reconstruction and flap viability. DTI is a safe approach for prepectoral implant-based reconstruction with a number of advantages. However, careful patient selection and judicious assessment of flap perfusion help identify an appropriate subset of patients for prepectoral DTI reconstruction. Proposed breast tissue coverage classification (BTCC) and rigorous perfusion assessment techniques will aid to minimize postoperative complications and reconstruction failure. Based on the obtained range of coverage values (distance between the Cooper's ligaments and the skin) of preoperative digital mammogram evaluation, a three-type BTCC is as follows: Type 1: <1 cm (poor coverage), Type 2: between 1 and 2 cm (medium coverage), Type 3: >2 cm (good coverage). Prepectoral DTI reconstruction provides good results with complication rates similar to those of subpectoral techniques, eliminating breast animation. A meticulous surgical technique is essential to preserve the vascular network that guarantees the survival of the skin flap and nipple-areola complex (NAC). In the good coverage group (Type 3), an immediate DTI reconstruction could be safely performed. Aesthetic complications as rippling can occur if prepectoral implants are placed in Type 1 patients. Preoperative planning for prepectoral placement should not depend on breast volume, but on breast tissue coverage. Flap evaluation based on preoperative imaging measurements may be helpful when planning a conservative mastectomy. Patient selection, preoperative and intraoperative mastectomy flap evaluation, and modifications in implant technology play a critical role in this new and rapidly growing method for implant-based breast reconstruction.

Case report: Immediate thumb reconstruction using reverse radial flap surgical technique.

INTRODUCTION: The human hand is highly mobile and functional, being essential in the prehensile function. Thumb injuries are divided into distal, medial and proximal. Post-traumatic defects in the thumb can lead significant functional impairment. Reconstructive is always de primary goal to preserve function without pain. CASE PRESENTATION: The case of a 37-years-old male, right hander, with a traumatic avulsion of the thumb in the right hand. On physical examination, exposure of the tendon and bone with distancing from the metacarpophalangeal joint, mobility function and Allen's clinical test of the palmar arch was preserved. We plan a reverse radial flap for coverage. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The anatomy of the hand represents a scope in working life and recreative activities. Surgical techniques are the primary tool in the management of reconstruction, being designed with the intention of maintaining integrity and optimal function. Flaps are a fundamental pillar in reconstructive practice. CONCLUSION: The reverse radial forearm flap provides benefits among the reconstructive methods for soft tissues of coverage dorsal or palmar area of the hand in the scenario where the thumb suffers from slack and tissue is not available for reimplantation and when microsurgical options are not viable.

Microplastic evidence assessment from water and sediment sampling in a shallow tropical lake.

Microplastics (MPs) severely threaten inland waterbodies due to the direct impact of human activities. In the present study, spatial and temporal patterns of MPs in a shallow tropical lake were assessed, describing their size, morphology, and polymer types. Water and sediment samples were collected from Lake Chapala during three seasons, and MPs were quantified with a stereomicroscope. The structure, elemental composition, and polymeric composition were determined via environmental scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The highest average concentration of microplastics in Lake Chapala was detected during the low-water period in April 2022 (2.35 items/L), exceeding the July 2022 rainy season concentration (1.8 items/L) by 0.25 items/L, and sediment concentrations were also higher in April 2022 (219 items/kg) compared to July 2022 (210 items/kg). This study highlights the significant pollution of Lake Chapala with microplastics, emphasizing the need for urgent measures to manage plastic waste and mitigate its environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Microplastic contamination was evaluated in Lake Chapala. The distribution profiles of microplastics were different in each area. Heavy metals osmium, tellurium, and rhodium were found associated with the PMs. Polymers were found in this study.

Plastic nests: The first record of the Yellow-rumped Cacique (Cacicus cela) and the Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus) building nests with discarded fishing material on the Amazon Coast.

The Amazonian coastal ecosystems face a significant threat from plastic contamination, posing a major risk to their biodiversity. Here, we provide the first evidence of using plastics in nest building by Yellow-cacique Cacique (Cacicus cela) and Greater Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus). During 2023 and 2024, 15 nests built with ropes and fishing lines were recorded in the Brazilian Amazon Coast, a colony of 12 nests in the State of Amapá and one nest in Pará for C. cela, and one nest for P. sulphuratus was observed in Maranhão during the fieldwork, covering all Brazilian Amazon Coast. These nests were observed on the edge of mangroves, built with solid waste from fishing activities, pointing out how environmental pollution can be incorporated into wildlife this issue. Our records emphasize the effect of plastic pollution on two passerine species associated with mangrove forests and the need for conservation measures and further research.