Evidence of plastics contamination and sewage-derived residues in a Brazilian Hope Spot for conservation of marine biodiversity - Cagarras Islands and surrounding waters.

Cagarras Islands Archipelago, a no-take MPA in Southeast Brazil, was designated as Natural Monument (MONA Cagarras) and, more recently, recognized as Hope Spot for biodiversity conservation. This study aimed to assess plastic contamination by analyzing marine litter and microplastics in MONA Cagarras and surrounding waters. Marine litter (34.12 kg) was caught by artisanal fishermen in MONA Cagarras proximities, and plastics represented ∼79 %. Personal hygiene items and strains of hair were found, suggesting sewage-derived contamination from Ipanema SSO. Microplastics were detected in MONA Cagarras surface waters. Fragments and black particle were the most frequently found microplastic shape and color, respectively. µ-FTIR analysis identified, in descending order of occurrence, polystyrene-PS, polyethylene-PE, polyvinyl chloride-PVC, polypropylene-P, and polyamide-PA. Our integrated results of macro and microplastic contamination highlight an issue of effective conservation and health of marine biodiversity in MONA Cagarras and surrounding waters and a concern for better management of Brazilian MPAs.

How to Measure Polymer Degradation? An Analysis of Authors' Choices When Calculating the Carbonyl Index.

The carbonyl index aims to measure the degradation level and is used in plastic degradation research as a proxy for the general degradation level of collected plastic pieces. According to the choices for carbonyl index calculation, comparison using this index is prevented and must be unveiled by the authors, which does not always happen. In order to study the proper usage of the carbonyl index, regarding the choice of the reference band and the usage of the band intensity or the absorption area, we systematically reviewed the methodologies used for polypropylene as a case study. Based on 95 studies gathered from 2000 to 2024, two main methods were used to determine the carbonyl index: the ratio between the carbonyl band area and the reference band area (33.68%) and the ratio between the highest intensity of the carbonyl band and the reference band (66.31%). The reference band of choice and the type of calculation method produce different carbonyl index values for the same spectra and mean different information, preventing comparison among works with different calculations.

Effect of the age of garments used under real-life conditions on microfibre release from polyester and cotton clothing.

The release of microfibres from fabrics during laundering represents an important source of plastic and natural microfibres to aquatic environments. Garment age - how long the garment has been used - could be a key factor influencing the rate of release, yet most studies of microfibre shedding have only assessed newly manufactured products. To this end, we quantified microfibre release during laundering in domestic washing machines from polyester (PES) and cotton garments (n = 38) used in real-life conditions for periods between 1 and 31 years with different use intensities. In addition, to better understand the factors involved in microfibre releases, fibre composition (different PES percentages) and type of garments (T-shirts, polo shirts, uniforms, sports shirts, and sweatshirts) were examined. All garments released microfibres during washing, while the older garments presented higher releases for clothing with a PES/cotton blend. In general, older garments (15-31 years) released nearly twice as many fibres when washed than newer garments (1-10 years). The mass of microfibres released was consistently greater in garments with a higher proportion of cotton than PES (up to 1.774 mg g-1 in 2% PES and 0.366 mg g-1 in 100% PES fabrics), suggesting that cotton might be released more readily such that the relative proportion of PES in the garments could increase over time. Additionally, SEM images showed fibre damage, with fibres from the older garments exhibiting more peeling and splitting. While it is important to note that the overall environmental footprint is undoubtedly reduced by keeping garments in use for longer periods of time, older garments were shown to release more microfibres.

Local Antimicrobial Resistance Trends in Pediatric Urinary Tract Infection: The Importance of Local Surveillance of a Global Problem.

Introduction Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common pediatric bacterial infections and consequently a major reason for antibiotic treatment. Despite being a global problem, antimicrobial resistance is often geographically heterogeneous. Thus, it is fundamental to know local epidemiology and practice frequent surveillance of each hospital's antibiograms. The aims of this study are to determine the local antimicrobial resistance profile in pediatric UTIs, to understand its evolution over 14 years, and finally, to infer if the currently instituted antibiotic empirical therapy remains effective. Materials and methods A retrospective observational study was performed through the analysis of urine cultures and respective antibiograms of children diagnosed with UTI from 2017 to 2019 in Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve (Faro's unit, Portugal), followed by a comparison of the obtained data with the results of a similar study performed between 2003 and 2005. Results A total of 784 urine cultures were selected. Escherichia coli was the most frequent microorganism (n = 561; 71.56%), followed by Proteus mirabilis (n = 117; 14.92%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 40; 5.10%). The most commonly prescribed antibiotic was cefuroxime axetil (66.28%). Escherichia coli had an increase in resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanate of 6.16% to 34.76% and cefuroxime axetil of 0.73% to 4.46%. Proteus mirabilis had an increase in resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanate of 1.64% to 11.11%. Klebsiella pneumoniae had an increase in resistance to cefuroxime axetil (0%-27.50%) and nitrofurantoin (0%-47.50%). The three microorganisms showed a decrease in trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole resistance profiles, as well as low resistance profiles to fosfomycin. In fifty cases in which antibiotic empirical therapy was instituted, the isolated microorganism revealed in vitro resistance; 37 of these cases had a good evolution, maintaining the antibiotic empirical therapy. Discussion Local surveillance of antimicrobial resistance allows monitoring of the resistance trends and adequacy of empirical antibiotic therapy. This study's local resistance profile was distinct from other regions of the country and the world. Continuous local surveillance also potentiates the dissemination of the results to the concerned healthcare providers and the initiation of timely responsive measures, containing the increase in antimicrobial resistance. As Escherichia coli was the commonest isolated microorganism, its antimicrobial profile should dictate antibiotic empirical therapy. This study supports that in vitro is not equivalent to in vivo resistance. Conclusion There was a significant increase in antimicrobial resistance profiles, especially to amoxicillin-clavulanate. Cefuroxime axetil remains the recommended antibiotic for empirical therapy in this hospital, although fosfomycin should be considered as an alternative in non-complicated cystitis in adolescent females. This study reinforces the importance of continuous local resistance surveillance as a preventive measure against the global increase in antimicrobial resistance.

A Rare Cause of Intellectual Disability.

A seven-year-old female was followed in a developmental clinic from the age of nine months due to delayed psychomotor development. The first physical examination showed a newborn with irritability and a large anterior fontanelle. A transfontanellar ultrasound was performed, revealing mild enlargement of the lateral and third ventricles. Head circumference remained below the third percentile until the age of five months, then rose to the third percentile. Developmental milestones were globally delayed, with expressive language being more severely affected and axial hypotonia with appendicular hypertonia on neurological examination. Subsequent medical observation revealed deep-set eyes, mildly up-slanted palpebral fissures, a high nasal bridge with a broad nasal tip, a thin upper lip, widely spaced teeth, retrognathia, and a slight pectus excavatum. Genetic investigation revealed the diagnosis, with whole-exome sequencing consistent with the genetic diagnosis of autosomal dominant mental retardation type 7 (MRD7). All patients diagnosed with MRD7 have a development delay detected at a young age and, typically, a mild to severe intellectual disability later in life. All individuals present language impairment, especially in verbal expression. Motor development is typically affected by gait disturbances and generalized hypertonia, which are noted early in life. Microcephaly is a prominent feature of this syndrome, present in over 90% of the cases. The most common findings in MRD7 (microcephaly and intellectual disability) have a broad differential diagnosis. Some disorders have multiple findings in common with MRD7, such as Angelman syndrome (AS), MECP2 disorders, or Mowat-Wilson syndrome (MWS). MRD7 is a rare genetic syndrome characterized by developmental delay/intellectual disability, microcephaly, autism spectrum disorder, behavior problems, typical facial features, and seizures. Early intervention is more likely to be effective and potentially change a child's developmental path. Small gains early in life could represent a significant difference in the children's future autonomy.

Antimutagenic and antitumor activities of a water-soluble fraction of soursop (syn Graviola, Annona muricata L.) fruit pulp.

Soursop (Annona muricata) is a tropical tree whose decoction derived from bark, root, seed, or leaf has been used for medicinal uses. In addition, the fruit itself is considered a food, and the juice is utilized to treat heart and liver diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the phenolic content. In addition, a water-soluble fraction of the soursop fruit pulp (WSSP) was examined for the following properties: antioxidant, mutagenic, and antimutagenicity. UV-visible spectrophotometry determined total phenolic content by the Folin-Ciocalteu method to be 11.22 ± 0.6 mg of gallic acid equivalent per gram dried extract, and free-radical scavenging activity by the 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH•) showed an EC50 of 1032 µg/ml. In the Salmonella/microsome assay, no marked mutagenicity was induced following WSSP treatment, and a chemopreventive capacity was observed in the antimutagenic assay. The cytotoxicity assays were carried out using the water-soluble tetrazolium salt and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays demonstrated that WSSP induced significant cytotoxicity in MCF-7 and Caco-2 cells, indicating greater effectiveness of cytotoxic action by destroying cell membrane integrity. Data suggest that WSSP may exert beneficial effects as a DNA chemopreventive and antitumor agent.

In vitro chemopreventive and cytotoxic effects of Amazon mosses Leucobryum martianum (Hornsch.) and Leucobryum laevifolium (Broth) extracts.

Several bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, demonstrate low toxicity and prominent effects on cancer cells with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor activities. Such compounds can be found in Amazon mosses Leucobryum martianum (Hornsch.) Hampe ex Müll. Hal. (Hornsch.) and Leucobryum laevifolium (Broth). Antimutagenic assay with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and cytotoxicity with different eukaryotic cell lines were carried out to screen aqueous, hydroalcoholic, and ethanolic extracts of those Amazon mosses for anticancer potential. The results indicate the capacity of all extracts of both mosses to exert chemopreventive effects against 4-nitroquinoline-N-oxide (4NQO) and 2-aminoanthracene (2-AA), which are direct or indirect mutagens. In particular, the ethanolic and aqueous extract from L. martianum. The ethanolic extract from L. martianum induces significant cytotoxicity by mitochondrial metabolism and cell membrane disruption pathways to tumor or non-tumor cells. The aqueous extract from L. martianum showed a mainly cytotoxic response in the HepG2 cells, a human liver carcinoma, reaching ~90% cytotoxicity. The same extract did not induce significant damage to normal liver cells (F C3H cells) by membrane interaction pathway. The selective cytotoxicity in the aqueous extract of L. martianum makes it a candidate against liver cancer. Further studies, including in vivo models, are necessary to validate the efficacy and safety of the aqueous extract of L. martianum.

Marketable 1,3-dimethylamylamine and caffeine-based thermogenic supplements: Regulatory genotoxicity assessment through in vitro and in silico approaches.

The consumption of dietary supplements to enhance physical performance has increased significantly in the last century, especially thermogenic pre-workout supplements. Nevertheless, this industry has faced criticism for inadequate safety measures surveillance in regulatory issues regarding their products. The aims of our study were to investigate two pre-workout supplements with respect to (1) mutagenicity utilizing Salmonella/microsome assay; (2) genotoxicity employing cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay protocols; and (3) hepatocytoxicity using WST cell proliferation, activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase using human liver carcinoma (HepG2) and mouse fibroblast (F C3H) cells. Oxidative stress was determined through glutathione (GSH) measurement and in silico for predictions of pharmacokinetics and toxicity for the most abundant isolated substances present in these supplements. Both supplements induced mutagenicity in all examined bacterial strains, especially in the presence of exogenous metabolism. Further, tested supplements significantly elevated the formation of micronuclei (MN) as well as other cellular phenomena. Concentration- and time-dependent curves were observed for hepatotoxicity in both studied cell lines. In addition, both supplements decreased levels of intracellular and extracellular GSH. In silico predictions showed that the isolated individual compounds failed to induce the observed outcomes. Our findings provide contributions to the molecular mechanisms underlying two pre-workout supplement-induced toxicity and the need for surveillance.

Influence of UV exposure time and simulated marine environment on different microplastic degradation.

This study investigated the influence of environmental factors (UV radiation and salinity) in the degradative process of microplastics (MPs). MPs derived from polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) were subjected to accelerated photodegradation while being submerged in distilled water or artificial seawater. Depending on the polymer, changes in surface properties, new functional chemical group formation and oxidative index, and thermal characteristics of samples were observed. After photodegradation experiments, EVA-MPs samples showed an increase in their thermal resistance, besides the changes in their surface. PP-MPs crystallinity index increased upon exposure to UV radiation. PS samples showed a higher carbonyl and hydroxyl index after 30 h of UV exposure. The methodology exploited applies to any location in the world and can be comparable once considering the total ultraviolet index (UVI). The saline medium increases the crystallinity index of PP and EVA-MPs samples and intensifies the formation of new carbonyl and hydroxyl bonds in EVA-MPs samples. The results showed that several environmental factors should be considered in interpreting MPs photodegradation.

Revealing microplastic dynamics: the impact of precipitation and depth in urban river ecosystems.

Research on microplastics in Latin America is limited compared to a global perspective. Brazil plays a significant role in this context, as it possesses 12% of the world's freshwater reserves, constituting 53% of South America's water resources. There has been growing concern regarding the plastic pollution of the country's freshwater systems in recent years. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of plastic pollution on the Guaíba River, a significant watercourse in the southern region of Brazil that is subjected to high anthropogenic pressure. Additionally, we examined correlations between the presence of microplastics and key factors influencing their distribution in the river. Thus, freshwater was collected in seven sampling campaigns from 2019 to 2020, totaling 66 samples. The microplastics were quantified and characterized according to their color, shape, and polymeric composition. The concentration of microplastics varied between 2.9 and 53.8 items m-3, and the distribution and transport were positively influenced by the population density, precipitations, and depth of each sampling point. White-transparent color category (51%) and fragment shape (89%) were predominant among the found particles. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) represented 37% and 57% of the analyzed particles. The non-metric multidimensional scaling (nMDS) analysis indicated that similar contamination sources, such as domestic sewage, could influence three out of ten sampled points. Several microplastics presented the formation of cracks, with sizes smaller than 10 µm on their surface, which might indicate an erosion process, resulting in the formation of nanoplastics. The color fading observed in microplastics suggests that the particles were subjected to environmental stressors, leading to the leaching or degradation of the dye on the plastic. The results confirmed the ubiquity of microplastics in Guaíba River, highlighting the importance of improving the regulations on plastic waste disposal in the country to prevent the contamination of freshwater bodies.

Structure/function studies of the NAD+-dependent DNA ligase from the poly-extremophile Deinococcus radiodurans reveal importance of the BRCT domain for DNA binding.

Bacterial NAD+-dependent DNA ligases (LigAs) are enzymes involved in replication, recombination, and DNA-repair processes by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds in the backbone of DNA. These multidomain proteins exhibit four modular domains, that are highly conserved across species, with the BRCT (breast cancer type 1 C-terminus) domain on the C-terminus of the enzyme. In this study, we expressed and purified both recombinant full-length and a C-terminally truncated LigA from Deinococcus radiodurans (DrLigA and DrLigA∆BRCT) and characterized them using biochemical and X-ray crystallography techniques. Using seeds of DrLigA spherulites, we obtained ≤ 100 µm plate crystals of DrLigA∆BRCT. The crystal structure of the truncated protein was obtained at 3.4 Å resolution, revealing DrLigA∆BRCT in a non-adenylated state. Using molecular beacon-based activity assays, we demonstrated that DNA ligation via nick sealing remains unaffected in the truncated DrLigA∆BRCT. However, DNA-binding assays revealed a reduction in the affinity of DrLigA∆BRCT for dsDNA. Thus, we conclude that the flexible BRCT domain, while not critical for DNA nick-joining, plays a role in the DNA binding process, which may be a conserved function of the BRCT domain in LigA-type DNA ligases.

How natural and anthropogenic factors should drive microplastic behavior and fate: The scenario of Brazilian urban freshwater.

Brazil maintains its position at the top of the global ranking of plastic producers, yet recycling efforts have been incipient. Recent data reveals an annual production of approximately 14 million tons of plastic waste, not accounting for the surge in the usage of plastic masks and related materials due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, what remains largely unreported is that over half of post-consumer plastic packaging in Brazil is managed without any monitoring, and it remains unclear how this will contribute to the occurrence of plastic waste and microplastics in Brazilian freshwaters. This scenario requires the consideration of several other crucial factors. Studies have been carried out mainly in marine and estuarine waters, while data on freshwaters are lacking. Brazil has continental dimensions and the highest water availability on the planet, yet the demand for water is greatest in regions with medium to low supply. Many densely populated Brazilian urban areas face chronic flood problems, possess inadequate levels of wastewater treatment, and display inadequate solid waste management practices. Consequently, urban freshwater with tropical characteristics in Brazil presents an intriguing scenario and is complementary to the most commonly studied marine environments. In this study, we explore the nuances of pollution in Brazilian urban freshwater and discuss how various parameters, such as organic matter, suspended solids, temperature, and pH, among others, influence the behavior of microplastics and their interactions with organic and inorganic contaminants. Furthermore, we address how microplastic conditions, such as biofouling, the type of plastic, or degradation level, may impact their behavior. By analyzing how these conditions change, we propose priority themes for investigating the occurrence of microplastics in Brazilian urban freshwater systems under different degrees of human impact. Ultimately, this study aims to establish a network dedicated to standardized monitoring of microplastic pollution in Brazilian urban freshwaters.

Drosophila motor neuron boutons remodel through membrane blebbing coupled with muscle contraction.

Wired neurons form new presynaptic boutons in response to increased synaptic activity, however the mechanism(s) by which this occurs remains uncertain. Drosophila motor neurons (MNs) have clearly discernible boutons that display robust structural plasticity, being therefore an ideal system in which to study activity-dependent bouton genesis. Here, we show that in response to depolarization and in resting conditions, MNs form new boutons by membrane blebbing, a pressure-driven mechanism that occurs in 3-D cell migration, but to our knowledge not previously described to occur in neurons. Accordingly, F-actin is decreased in boutons during outgrowth, and non-muscle myosin-II is dynamically recruited to newly formed boutons. Furthermore, muscle contraction plays a mechanical role, which we hypothesize promotes bouton addition by increasing MN confinement. Overall, we identified a mechanism by which established circuits form new boutons allowing their structural expansion and plasticity, using trans-synaptic physical forces as the main driving force.

In vitro genotoxicity assessment of graphene quantum dots nanoparticles: A metabolism-dependent response.

Nanomaterials are progressively being applied in different areas, including biomedical uses. Carbon nanomaterials are relevant for biomedical sciences because of their biocompatibility properties. Graphene quantum dots (GQD) have a substantial potential in drug-delivery nanostructured biosystems, but there is still a lack of toxicological information regarding their effects on human health and the environment. We thus evaluated the mutagenicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of this nanomaterial using alternative methods applied in regulatory toxicology guidelines. The Ames test was carried out in the presence and absence of exogenous metabolization. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium strains TA97a, TA98, TA100, TA102, TA104, and TA1535 were exposed to GQD with concentrations ranging from 1 to 1000 µg/plate. The mammal cell viability assays were carried out with HepG2 and 3T3BalbC cell lineages and the in vitro Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus assay (CBMN) was applied for 24 h of exposure in non-cytotoxic concentrations. Mutagenicity was induced in the TA97a strain in the absence of exogenous metabolization, but not in its presence. Mutagenicity was also detected in the TA102 strain in the assay with exogenous metabolization, suggesting redox misbalance mutagenicity. The WST-1 and LDH assays demonstrated that GQD decreased cell viability, especially in 3T3BalbC cells, which showed more sensitivity to the nanomaterial. GQD also increased micronuclei formation in 3T3BalbC and caused a cytostatic effect. No significant impact on HepG2 micronuclei formation was observed. Different metabolic systems interfered with the mutagenic, cytotoxic, and genotoxic effects of GQD, indicating that liver metabolism has a central role in the detoxification of this nanomaterial.

Understanding the Technical-Scientific Gaps of Underutilized Tropical Species: The Case of Bactris gasipaes Kunth.

The extraction and commercialization of palm hearts is the most profitable activity involving the peach palm (Bactris gasipaes), while consumption of its fruits is limited to Amazonian communities. The excessive attention paid to the implementation of germplasm banks contributed to the lack of development of high-performance varieties, limiting the production and consumption of peach palm fruits and by-products. In addition, with the fragmentation of the Amazonian rainforest, wild populations are in danger of extinction. The species domestication, initiated by Native Amazonians, generated a large variety of peach palm populations, as evidenced by the diversity in fruit sizes and quality. Some advances in agronomic traits also took place. However, more research needs to be conducted to understand the implications of climatic changes on plant physiological performance. Indeed, the key point is that the exploitation of the full potential of B. gasipaes has not been completely exploited. Therefore, understanding the state-of-the-art research on the peach palm with a focus on its underutilized resources is essential for expanding plantations and, consequently, promoting the market expansion of the peach palm as a fruit crop.

Comportamento de idosos para a promoção da saúde: análise segundo a teoria de Nola Pender / Older adults' behavior for health promotion: analysis according to Nola Pender's theory / Comportamiento de ancianos para promover la salud: análisis según la teoría de Nola Pender

Objetivo: Analisar o comportamento de idosos em relação à promoção da saúde segundo a teoria de Nola Pender. Métodos: Pesquisa participante de abordagem qualitativa, realizada em uma Instituição de Ensino Superior de Brasília (Distrito Federal), Brasil. Os dados foram coletados ao longo de quatro encontros presenciais, por meio da estratégia de grupo de reflexão, com base em questões norteadoras especificas para cada encontro. Para a análise dos dados, utilizou-se a Teoria de Promoção da Saúde de Nola Pender que pressupõe a avaliação de características e experiências individuais, dos sentimentos e conhecimentos sobre o comportamento que se quer alcançar e do comportamento de promoção da saúde desejável. Resultados: Participaram 13 idosos, os quais revelaram que a autoestima, o trabalho e a participação em diversas atividades familiares, culturais e religiosas os ajudam a realizar ações que promovem sua saúde. Eles desejam modificar alguns comportamentos e conservar outros, em função do beneficio percebido. influências interpessoais e situações como renda, doenças, religião, escolaridade e acesso a bens e serviços são apontados como fatores que influenciam as mudanças de comportamento em saúde. Conclusão: o comportamento dos idosos revelou esforços para manter e ampliar sua saúde e graus de autonomia.

Objective: To analyze older adults' behavior in relation to health promotion according to Nola Pender's theory. Methods: This is participatory research with a qualitative approach, carried out at a Higher Education Institution in Brasília (Federal District), Brazil. Data were collected over four on-site meetings, through the reflection group strategy, based on specific guiding questions for each meeting. For data analysis, Nola Pender's Health Promotion Theory was used, which presupposes assessing individual characteristics and experiences, behavior-specific cognitions and affect and behavioral outcome. Results: The study included 13 older adults, who revealed that self-esteem, work and participation in various family, cultural and religious activities help them carry out actions that promote their health. They wish to modify some behaviors and maintain others, depending on the perceived benefit. Interpersonal influences and situations such as income, illness, religion, education and access to goods and services are highlighted as factors that influence changes in health behavior. Conclusion: Older adults' behavior revealed efforts to maintain and expand their health and degrees of autonomy.

Objetivo: Analizar el comportamiento de los ancianos frente a la promoción de la salud desde la perspectiva del modelo teórico de Nola Pender. Métodos: Estudio de investigación participante con abordaje cualitativo, con 13 ancianos. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de la estrategia de grupos de reflexión, a partir de preguntas orientadoras elaboradas por los investigadores. Se utilizó la Teoría de Enfermería de Promoción de la Salud de Nola Pender. Resultados: Hubo interrelación entre las características y vivencias individuales de los ancianos, sus sentimientos y conocimientos sobre el comportamiento deseado y el comportamiento deseado de promoción de la salud. Conclusión: Este estudio permite reflexionar sobre las condiciones y motivaciones que llevan a los ancianos a tener determinados comportamientos, que influyen en su estado de salud. Contribuciones para la práctica: Reflexión de los profesionales de la salud sobre la creación de nuevas estrategias para la implementación de acciones de promoción de la salud de la población anciana.

Tempo de tela e prática de atividade física entre universitários durante a pandemia / Screen time and physical activity among university students during the pandemic

As Doenças Crônicas não Transmissíveis representam um problema de saúde pública a nível mundial, e são resultantes da combinação de distintos fatores de risco, a exemplo a prática insuficiente de atividade física e o uso excessivo de dispositivos eletrônicos. Identificar a frequência da prática de atividade física e do uso de dispositivos eletrônicos e televisão entre estudantes universitários. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com abordagem quantitativa realizado com 87 universitários de uma IES privada do Distrito Federal no segundo semestre de 2020. A coleta de dados foi realizada mediante questionário eletrônico estruturado. Para a análise dos dados foi utilizado a estatística descritiva através do software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) versão 21.0. Observou-se que 63 (72,4%) estudantes relataram praticar algum tipo de atividade física nos últimos três meses. No que diz respeito a frequência da prática de atividade física, 53 (60,9%) discentes relataram praticar por pelo menos uma vez na semana, e 21 (24,1%) informaram a prática de 3 a 4 dias por semana. Quanto ao uso de dispositivos eletrônicos, observou-se que 80 (92,0%) discentes referiram utilizá-los em seu tempo livre, o tempo de uso mais relatado foi de 2-3 horas. Observou-se uma frequência elevada da utilização de dispositivos eletrônicos e da prática insuficiente de atividade física entre universitários durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Sendo assim, é crucial o estabelecimento de intervenções de promoção para adoção de hábitos de vida saudáveis para este grupo.

Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases represent a public health problem worldwide and are the result of a combination of different risk factors such as insufficient physical activity and excessive use of electronic devices. To identify the frequency of physical activity and the use of electronic devices and television among college students. This is a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach carried out with 87 university students from a private Higher Education Institution in the Federal District during the second half of 2020. Data collection was performed using a structured electronic questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 software. It was observed that 63 (72.4%) students reported practicing some type of physical activity in the last three months. Concerning the frequency of physical activity, 53 (60.9%) students reported practicing at least once a week, and 21 (24.1%) reported practicing 3 to 4 days a week. As for the use of electronic devices, it was observed that 80 (92.0%) students reported using them in their free time, the most reported time of use was 2-3 hours. There was a high frequency of use of electronic devices and insufficient practice of physical activity among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, it is crucial to establish interventions to promote the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits for this group.

Intervenções interdependentes de enfermagem como indicadores sensíveis de qualidade - cuidados em ventilação mecânica não invasiva / Interdependent nursing interventions as sensitive indicators of quality - care in non-invasive mechanical ventilation

Durante os estágios, para aquisição de competências enquanto enfermeira especialista em Enfermagem Médico-cirúrgica, na vertente do doente crítico, o planeamento dos cuidados de enfermagem à pessoa em situação crítica, consubstanciado numa metodologia científica inerente ao processo de enfermagem, permitiu sustentar o processo de tomada de decisão e a implementação das intervenções, incorporando na prática os conhecimentos teóricos baseados em evidência científica. Após a identificação das necessidades, prescrevem-se intervenções de enfermagem de forma a detetar precocemente complicações e problemas potenciais e resolver ou minorar problemas reais identificados, mediante um paradigma de atuação preciso, concreto eficiente e em tempo útil, por exemplo, na "apropriada implementação de medidas de suporte avançado de vida" e na "gestão adequada de protocolos terapêuticos complexos" (OE, 2017). O enfermeiro possui formação humana, técnica e científica adequada para a prestação de cuidados em todo o contexto, particularmente em situação de elevada complexidade que lhe permita atuar de forma interdependente. Neste domínio, as competências específicas do enfermeiro especialista em Enfermagem Medico Cirúrgica na vertente da pessoa em situação critica, estão regulamentadas e publicadas em Diário da República a 16 de julho de 2018, pelo regulamento 429/2018, pa.19359. Para a OE (2015) a melhoria contínua dos cuidados implica a qualidade dos cuidados. A avaliação da qualidade dos cuidados de enfermagem pretende determinar o cumprimento das orientações estabelecidas pelos enfermeiros e a utilização dessa análise para tomar decisões acerca das mudanças que devem ser implementadas nos cuidados. No ano de 2001, a OE devido à necessidade de criar sistemas de qualidade para a profissão, definiu os "Padrões de Qualidade dos Cuidados de Enfermagem", sendo um referencial que regula e orienta o exercício profissional. Nos padrões de qualidade foram definidos seis enunciados descritivos de qualidade do exercício profissional dos enfermeiros ­ satisfação dos clientes, promoção da saúde, prevenção de complicações, bem-estar e autocuidado, readaptação funcional e organização dos cuidados de enfermagem, que pretendem ser um instrumento que clarifica o papel do enfermeiro junto das pessoas, dos demais profissionais e dos políticos (OE, 2001). No domínio da melhoria contínua da qualidade, das competências comuns do enfermeiro especialista, o enfermeiro deve "desenvolver práticas de qualidade, gerindo e colaborando em programas de melhorias contínua.". Os projetos de melhoria contínua da qualidade dos cuidados de enfermagem envolvem o planeamento e implementação de ações, visando a melhoria de forma a oferecer cuidados de enfermagem que atendam as expetativas da pessoa. As Intervenções Interdependentes de Enfermagem (IIE) e os constrangimentos na Ventilação Mecânica não Invasiva (VMNI) ao doente crítico, são essenciais para a segurança dos cuidados e qualidade em saúde. Sendo assim, são legalmente reconhecidas ao enfermeiro dois tipos de intervenções: autónomas e interdependentes, segundo (OE/REPE, 2015). As intervenções interdependentes referem-se a uma atuação de complementaridade funcional relativamente aos demais profissionais de saúde, intervenções essas realizadas pelos enfermeiros de acordo com as respetivas qualificações profissionais, em conjunto com outros técnicos, para atingir um objetivo comum, e são decorrentes de planos de ação previamente definidos pelas equipas multidisciplinares onde estão integrados as prescrições ou orientações previamente formalizadas. No que concerne à tomada de decisão do enfermeiro, também o REPE, é perentório em afirmar, que os cuidados de enfermagem se caracterizam pela presença e estabelecimento de uma relação de ajuda com o utente (abordagem sistémica e sistemática), cuja interação é objetivamente documentada, em processo de enfermagem, mediante a aplicação de metodologia científica (OE, 2015). O objetivo, da presente investigação, é identificar as IIE ao doente crítico com VMNI, que pela sua consistência executória, se assumem, como Indicadores de processo Sensíveis de Qualidade (IPSQ) aos cuidados, e a sua relação com as variáveis sociodemográficas e profissionais. Os indicadores que aqui se colocam em estudo, são os de processo, porque a literatura atual (Migote, 2022) menciona que através da análise de indicadores de estrutura e processo, se pode aceder à monitorização aprofundada dos resultados de saúde, razão que torna pertinente a relação em estudo. Na metodologia, foi desenvolvido um estudo exploratório, quantitativo descritivo, a partir da análise às respostas a um questionário elaborado com base em pesquisa bibliográfica com evidencia científica para o efeito, numa amostra de 76 enfermeiros, de urgência e medicina intensiva, maioritariamente, do sexo feminino (82,9%), com idades entre 36 e 45 anos (51,3%). As IIE ao doente crítico com VMNI, que pela sua consistência executória, se assumem, como ISQ aos cuidados, são: "doente é monitorizado segundo as recomendações" e "(...) é informado e pedida a sua colaboração" e os constrangimentos mais sentidos foram: "presença de secreções excessivas (...)", "a ocorrência de PCR é contraindicação" e "o nível de consciência do doente influencia o sucesso (...)". Foram verificadas relações estatisticamente significativas entre: a IIE "recurso à sedação" e o tempo de serviço, e o constrangimento "nível de consciência" e as varáveis: formação específica e tempo de serviço. Reafirma-se a importância de um protocolo de atuação na VMNI, para uniformização de cuidados.

During internships, in order to acquire skills as a specialist nurse in Medical-surgical Nursing, in terms of critically ill patients, the planning of nursing care for people in critical situations, embodied in a scientific methodology inherent in the nursing process, allowed sustaining the decision-making process and the implementation of interventions, incorporating theoretical knowledge based on scientific evidence into practice. After identifying needs, nursing interventions are prescribed in order to detect complications and potential problems early and solve or alleviate real problems identified, through a precise, concrete, efficient and timely paradigm of action, for example, in the "appropriate implementation of advanced life support measures" and in the "adequate management of complex therapeutic protocols" (OE, 2017). Nurses have adequate human, technical and scientific training to provide care in any context, particularly in highly complex situations that allow them to act interdependently. In this domain, the specific competences of the specialist nurse in Medical-Surgical Nursing in terms of the person in a critical situation, are regulated and published in Diário da República on July 16, 2018, by regulation 429/2018, pa.19359. For OE (2015) the continuous improvement of care implies quality of care. The assessment of the quality of nursing care aims to determine compliance with the guidelines established by nurses and the use of this analysis to make decisions about the changes that must be implemented in care. In 2001, the OE, due to the need to create quality systems for the profession, defined the "Nursing Care Quality Standards", being a reference that regulates and guides professional practice. In the quality standards, six descriptive statements of the quality of nurses' professional practice were defined - client satisfaction, health promotion, prevention of complications, well-being and self-care, functional readaptation and organization of nursing care, which are intended to be a instrument that clarifies the nurse's role with people, other professionals and politicians (OE, 2001). In the field of continuous quality improvement, one of the common skills of specialist nurses, nurses must "develop quality practices, managing and collaborating in continuous improvement programs.". Continuous improvement projects in the quality of nursing care involve the planning and implementation of actions, aimed at improving in order to offer nursing care that meets the person's expectations. Continuous quality improvement results from the intention to promote change to obtain higher standards (OE, 2019). Interdependent Nursing Interventions (IIE) and constraints on Non-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation (NIMV) for critically ill patients are essential for safe care and quality in health. Therefore, two types of interventions are legally recognized for nurses: autonomous and interdependent, according to (OE/REPE, 2015). The interdependent interventions refer to a performance of functional complementarity in relation to the other health professionals, interventions carried out by the nurses according to the respective professional qualifications, together with other technicians, to reach a common objective, and are resulting from action plans previously defined by the multidisciplinary teams which include the previously formalized prescriptions or guidelines. With regard to the nurse's decision-making, REPE is also peremptory in stating that nursing care is characterized by the presence and establishment of a helping relationship with the user (systemic and systematic approach), whose interaction is objectively documented, in the nursing process, through the application of scientific methodology (OE, 2015). The aim of this investigation is to identify the IIE for critically ill patients with NIMV, which, due to their enforceable consistency, are assumed to be Quality Sensitive Process Indicators (IPSQ) for care, and their relationship with sociodemographic and professional variables. The indicators that are studied here are those of process, because the current literature (Migote, 2022) mentions that through the analysis of structure and process indicators, it is possible to access the in-depth monitoring of health outcomes, reason that makes the relationship under study relevant. In terms of methodology, an exploratory, quantitative and descriptive study was carried out, based on the analysis of responses to a questionnaire prepared on the basis of bibliographical research with scientific evidence for the purpose, in a sample of 76 nurses, in emergency and intensive medicine, mostly male and female. female (82.9%), aged between 36 and 45 years (51.3%). The IIE for critically ill patients with NIMV, which, due to their enforceable consistency, are assumed, as ISQ for care, are: "patient is monitored according to recommendations" and "(...) is informed and asked for their collaboration" and the constraints more senses were: "presence of excessive secretions (...)", "the occurrence of CA is a contraindication" and "the patient's level of consciousness influences success (...)". Statistically significant relationships were verified between: the SII "use of sedation" and length of service, and the embarrassment "level of consciousness" and the variables: specific training and length of ser- vice. The importance of an action protocol in NIMV is reaffirmed, in order to standardize care.

First Stage of the Development of an Eco-Friendly Detergent Formulation for Efficient Removal of Carbonized Soil.

Detergent formulations for cleaning a carbonized soil­degreasers­typically comprise surfactants, organic solvents, phosphate-based cleaning agents, and alkaline agents, which results in high pH values (>11) that raise human and environmental risks. It is important to develop eco-friendly and safer degreasers, while maintaining their cleaning efficiency. In this work, simple degreaser formulations, with a pH below 11 and without phosphates, were developed by using a mixture of solvent, surfactant, and water to remove carbonized soil. The efficiency of the new degreaser formulations (with 5 wt% solvent, 5 wt% nonionic or ionic surfactant, and 90 wt% water) was evaluated by an abrasion test in the removal of carbonized soil from ceramic and stainless steel surfaces and compared with a commercial product. The results obtained show that the formulations comprising isopropylene glycol (IPG) with C11−C13 9EOs and diethylene glycol butyl ether (BDG) with octyltrimethylammonium octanoate ([N1118][C8O2]) present the best cleaning efficiency for both surfaces. The composition of these formulations was optimized for each surface using a mixture design. The resulting formulations, despite having a simpler composition, a pH lower than 11, and being phosphate-free, presented a cleaning efficiency equal or slightly higher than the commercial control. These results show that it is possible to design degreasers that are much less aggressive to the environment and user, while simultaneously fulfilling the market requirements.

Marine-Inspired Drugs and Biomaterials in the Perspective of Pancreatic Cancer Therapies.

Despite its low prevalence, pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest, typically characterised as silent in early stages and with a dramatically poor prognosis when in its advanced stages, commonly associated with a high degree of metastasis. Many efforts have been made in pursuing innovative therapeutical approaches, from the search for new cytotoxic drugs and other bioactive compounds, to the development of more targeted approaches, including improved drug delivery devices. Marine biotechnology has been contributing to this quest by providing new chemical leads and materials originating from different organisms. In this review, marine biodiscovery for PC is addressed, particularly regarding marine invertebrates (namely sponges, molluscs, and bryozoans), seaweeds, fungi, and bacteria. In addition, the development of biomaterials based on marine-originating compounds, particularly chitosan, fucoidan, and alginate, for the production of advanced cancer therapies, is also discussed. The key role that drug delivery can play in new cancer treatments is highlighted, as therapeutical outcomes need to be improved to give further hope to patients.