Integrating the water-energy-food nexus and LCA + DEA methodology for sustainable fisheries management: A case study of Cantabrian fishing fleets.

The fishing sector constitutes an important source of economic revenue in northern Spain. In this context, various research studies have focused on the application of the five-step Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) methodology to quantify environmental impacts of fishing systems. However, some of them have used environmental indicators that focus on individual environmental issues, hindering the goal of achieving integrated resource management. Therefore, in this study, the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus is employed as an integrative perspective that considers the synergies and trade-offs between carbon footprint, energy requirements, and water demand. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the operational efficiency and environmental impacts of Cantabrian fishing fleets. To this end, the combined use of LCA and DEA, along with the WEF Nexus, was applied to the Cantabrian purse seine fleet. DEA matrices were generated using the LCA-derived WEF nexus values as inputs to calculate efficiency scores for each vessel. Subsequently, based on the efficiency projections provided by the DEA model, a new impact assessment was performed to understand the eco-efficiency and potential environmental benefits of operating at higher levels of efficiency within this fleet. The average efficiency of the fleet was above 60 %. Inefficient units demonstrated a greater potential to reduce their environmental impacts (up to 65 %) by operating according to efficiency projections. Furthermore, the results revealed a strong dependence of environmental impacts on one of the operational inputs, i.e., fuel consumption. These findings highlight the significance of embracing holistic approaches that combine technical, economic, and social factors to achieve a sustainable balance in fisheries systems. In this regard, the five-step LCA + DEA method applied in conjunction with the WEF Nexus emerged as a suitable tool for measuring operational and environmental objectives.

Benzohydroxamate and nitrobenzohydroxamate affect membrane order: Correlations between spectroscopic and molecular dynamics to approach tuberculosis.

This work correlates the effects of benzohydroxamate (BH) and nitrobenzohydroxamate (NBH) anions in two membrane models which may be used for anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) spectroscopic studies and/or computational studies. Firstly, the BH and NBH influence in the physico-chemical properties of soy asolectin (ASO)-based large multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) were evaluated by spectroscopic and calorimetric studies. In parallel, the BH and NBH interaction with a Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) inner membrane model, composed of phosphatidyl-myo-inositol-dimannoside (PIM2), was investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Spectroscopic data showed a localization of BH close to the lipid phosphate group, while NBH was found close to the choline region. The BH ordered the ASO choline, phosphate and carbonyl regions and disrupted the acyl methylenes, reducing the membrane packing of the lipid hydrophobic region. On the other hand, NBH showed an ordering effect in all the lipid groups (polar, interface and hydrophobic ones). By MD studies, it was found that NBH enhanced the stability of the PIM2 membrane more than BH, while also being positioned closer to its mannosyl oxygens. As in ASO MLVs, BH was localized close to the PIM2 phosphate group and disrupted its acyl chains. However, higher values of lateral diffusion were observed for NBH than BH. Despite this, BH and NBH increased the membrane thickness by 35 %, which suggests a global ordering effect of both drugs. Findings of this work reinforce the accordance and complementarity between MLVs based on ASO and the PIM2 MD model results to study the drug effects in Mtb membrane properties.

Occupational risks in a representative sample of Portuguese tattoo artists: comparison between self-perception and risk assessment methods.

Introduction: In recent decades there has been a growth in the demand for tattoos and in the number of tattoo artists. Objectives: A study was designed to compare the results obtained in the application of risk assessment instruments by the Occupational Safety and Health team with those of the risk perception of the same variable in a sample of tattoo artists. Methods: A risk chart was prepared and the William Fine method, the integrated risk assessment approach, and the methodology for risk assessment and accidents at work were applied for general risk assessment, whereas the Ovako Working Posture Analysis System and Rapid Entire Body Assessment were applied for ergonomic risk assessment. Tattoo artists' perception was registered in an online questionnaire. Results: The most valued risk factors by tattoo artists were forced/maintained postures and repetitive movements; conversely, interaction with old machines and/or in poor condition and monotonous work. Divergences were found when comparing the results of risk assessment with those of risk perception, since the first highlights chemical and biological agents. This may be justified by the fact that tattoo artists give more relevance to issues capable of causing faster and/or more intense semiology. Conclusions: If the Occupational Safety and Health team is attentive and prepared to deal with these differences, it will achieve better performance.

Introdução: Nas últimas décadas, houve um crescimento na procura por tatuagens e no número de tatuadores. Objetivos: Projetou-se um estudo para comparar os resultados obtidos na aplicação de instrumentos para avaliação de risco pela equipe de Saúde e Segurança Ocupacionais com a percepção da mesma variável em uma amostra de tatuadores. Métodos: Elaborou-se uma carta de riscos, e foram aplicados os métodos de William Fine, a metodologia integrada de avaliação de risco, bem como e de avaliação do risco e acidentes de trabalho para risco geral e o Ovako Working Posture Analysis System e Rapid Entire Body Assessment para o risco ergonômico. A percepção dos tatuadores foi registrada em um questionário on-line. Resultados: Os fatores de risco mais valorizados pelos tatuadores foram as posturas forçadas/mantidas e os movimentos repetitivos; por sua vez, entre os fatores de risco menos valorizados, estavam a interação com máquinas antigas e/ou em mau estado e o trabalho monótono. Comparando os resultados da avaliação de risco com a percepção de risco, constata-se que existem divergências, uma vez que a primeira realça os agentes químicos e biológicos. Isso pode se justificar por eventualmente os tatuadores darem mais relevância às questões com capacidade para originar semiologia mais rápida e/ou intensa. Conclusões: Se a equipe de Saúde e Segurança Ocupacionais estiver atenta e preparada para lidar com essas diferenças, terá maior capacidade de obter melhor desempenho.

Exploring the environmental impacts of plastic packaging: A comprehensive life cycle analysis for seafood distribution crates.

Annually, 8.3 million tonnes of mismanaged plastic waste enter oceans, prompting the food packaging industry, a major contributor, to minimize its environmental footprint. Within the seafood sector, a nascent number of studies are exploring the impacts of various packaging solutions for distribution, yet clear insights remain elusive. This study tries to fill the gap by comparing the impacts of two seafood packaging options: disposable expandable polystyrene (EPS) boxes and, for the first time, reusable plastic crates (RPC) crafted from high-density polyethylene. Using the life cycle assessment methodology with a 'cradle to grave' approach, the research evaluates the distribution of 1260,000 t of fish from port of Vigo (Spain) to various markets. Similar climate change values emerge in local (5.00·107 kg CO2 eq.) and regional trade (1.20·108 kg CO2 eq.) for both options, but RPCs exhibit around a 12 % increase (6.15·108 kg CO2 eq.) during national distribution, emphasizing package weight and load significance. The findings across all impact categories exhibited general consistent trends. The sensitivity analysis suggests relocating washing facilities to port could enhance RPCs´ environmental benefits for transport within a 160 km range. These findings underscore reusable packaging's potential as an eco-friendlier alternative in specific contexts, aligning with heightened environmental concerns and regulatory pressures surrounding plastic usage.

Biomarkers Profile in Provoked Versus Unprovoked Deep Venous Thrombosis.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), represents a substantial healthcare challenge. Provoked and unprovoked DVT cases carry distinct risks and treatment considerations. Recognizing the limitations of this classification, molecular markers may enhance diagnostic precision and guide anticoagulation therapy duration relying on patient history and risk factors. This preliminary, open-label, prospective cohort study was conducted including 15 patients (10 provoked DVT and 5 unprovoked DVT) and a control group of healthy plasmatic subjects. Plasma levels of 9 biomarkers were measured at diagnosis (baseline, day 0, and D0) and after 30 days (day 30-D30). Patient demographics, clinical data, and biomarker concentrations were analyzed. Serum concentrations of D-dimer, von Willebrand factor, C-reactive protein, and Anti-Xa were elevated in DVT groups at D0 compared to controls. No significant differences were observed between the provoked and unprovoked groups on the day of diagnosis and 30 days later. Over 30 days, the provoked group exhibited significant biomarker changes related to temporal assessment. No significant differences were noted in the biomarker profile between provoked and unprovoked DVT groups. This study is indicative of the concept of individualized thrombosis assessment and subsequent treatment for VTE. Larger cohorts are warranted to validate these findings and further define the most appropriate use of the molecular markers.

Comparative Effectiveness of Valoctocogene Roxaparvovec and Prophylactic Factor VIII Replacement in Severe Hemophilia A.

INTRODUCTION: A prospective, non-interventional study (270-902) followed 294 adults with severe hemophilia A (SHA) receiving prophylactic factor VIII (FVIII). From these participants, 112 rolled over into a single-arm, multicenter, phase 3 trial (GENEr8-1; NCT03370913) that evaluated efficacy and safety of valoctocogene roxaparvovec, a gene therapy that provides endogenous FVIII in individuals with SHA. Participants from 270-902 who did not roll over provide an opportunity for a contemporaneous external control. Therefore, the comparative effectiveness of valoctocogene roxaparvovec vs FVIII prophylaxis was evaluated using propensity scoring (PS). METHODS: This post hoc analysis compared 112 participants from GENEr8-1 (treated cohort) to 73 participants in 270-902 who did not enroll in GENEr8-1 (control cohort). The primary analysis used standardized mortality ratio weighting to re-weight baseline characteristics of the control cohort to better match the treated cohort. Mean annualized bleeding rates (ABR) for treated and all bleeds were compared between cohorts along with the proportion of participants with zero bleeds (treated and all bleeds). Sensitivity and scenario analyses were also conducted. RESULTS: PS adjustments reduced differences in baseline characteristics between cohorts. Mean treated (4.40 vs 0.85; P < 0.001) and all (5.01 vs 1.54; P < 0.001) ABR were significantly lower, and the proportions of participants with zero treated bleeds (82.1% vs 32.9%; P < 0.001) and all bleeds (58.0% vs 28.5%; P < 0.001) were significantly higher in GENEr8-1. CONCLUSIONS: PS-adjusted analyses were consistent with prior intra-individual comparisons. Compared with participants receiving prophylactic FVIII, the participants receiving valoctocogene roxaparvovec experienced lower ABR, and a higher proportion had zero bleeds. TRAIL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03370913.

Hemophilia A is a bleeding disorder where blood is unable to clot properly because of a missing protein called factor VIII (FVIII). Individuals with hemophilia A have an increased risk of prolonged bleeding episodes that can be deadly. To prevent bleeding, people with severe hemophilia A need to routinely inject treatment into the skin or vein (prophylaxis). While effective, some people find the time and effort needed to maintain frequent injections difficult, since some forms of the prophylaxis must be administered in a hospital setting. Valoctocogene roxaparvovec is a gene therapy where a single injection provides instructions to the liver of individuals with hemophilia A to make the missing protein (FVIII). Then, their own liver cells can produce FVIII protein and prevent bleeding episodes. The valoctocogene roxaparvovec clinical trial compared the number of treated bleeding episodes participants had prior to gene therapy, while using prophylaxis, with the number of treated bleeding episodes after gene therapy. On average, after gene therapy, participants had 4.1 fewer treated bleeding episodes per year. In this study, mathematical models were used to explore how differences in participant's physical characteristics, such as body weight or medical history, might influence the effectiveness of gene therapy. Even when considering differences in the participants' physical characteristics, the gene therapy reduced treated bleeding episodes by 3.6 events per year. This study confirms results originally presented from the valoctocogene roxaparvovec clinical trial and reinforces confidence in the ability of valoctocogene roxaparvovec to reduce bleeding outcomes for participants with hemophilia A.

Carbapenem- and colistin-resistant Enterobacterales in intensive care unit patients in Mediterranean countries, 2019.

Introduction: The colonization of patients by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) has been associated with heightened mortality, especially in vulnerable individuals within intensive care units (ICUs). Our study aimed to comprehensively assess CPE prevalence among ICU patients across the Mediterranean region pre-COVID-19, conducting a multicenter prevalence study in the first quarter of 2019. Methods: We collected clinical data and rectal or fecal samples from 256 ICU patients for CPE testing. Additionally, we performed whole-genome sequencing on 40 representative CPE strains to document their molecular characteristics. Results: Among the 256 patients, CPE was detected in 73 samples (28.5%), with prevalence varying from 3.3 to 69.0% across participating centers. We observed 13 colistin-resistant CPE strains, affecting three ICUs. Genetic analysis revealed highly diverse E. coli and K. pneumoniae strains, predominantly from international high-risk clones. Notably, blaOXA-48 and blaNDM-1 were the most prevalent carbapenemase genes. Molecular typing uncovered potential patient clusters in six centers. Significantly, longer hospital stays were associated with increased CPE carriage (p < 0.001). Nine centers across Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, and Lebanon voluntarily participated. Discussion: Our study provides CPE prevalence in Mediterranean ICUs and reaffirms established CPE presence in this setting but also provides updates on the molecular diversity of CPE strains. These findings highlight the imperative of reinforcing infection control measures in the participating ICUs to curtail escalated mortality rates, and of strictly applying isolation measures around patients originating from the Mediterranean region when transferred to other healthcare institutions.

Carbapenem-producing Enterobacteriaceae in mothers and newborns in southeast Gabon, 2022.

Introduction: Infections caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) pose a significant threat, leading to severe morbidity and mortality among newborns. Methods: This study, conducted at Franceville hospital's maternity and neonatology wards from February 22nd to June 20th, 2022, investigated the prevalence of CPE in 197 parturients and 203 newborns. Rectal swabs were taken from parturients before delivery and from newborns 30 minutes after birth. Blood culture samples were collected if signs of infection were observed in newborns during a 28-day follow-up. A total of 152 environmental samples were obtained, comprising 18 from sinks, 14 from incubators, 27 from cradles, 39 from maternal beds, 14 from tables and desks, four from the two baby scales and 36 from bedside furniture. Results: None of the 203 newborns were found to be CPE carriers 30 minutes after delivery. CPE carriage was found in 4.6% of mothers. When comparing colonized and uncolonized parturients, well-established risk factors for CPE carriage, such as recent hospitalization and antibiotic therapy, were more frequently observed among CPE carriers (33.3 vs 10.6% for hospitalization in the past 15 days; 55.5 vs 30.3% for hospitalization during pregnancy, and 55.5 vs 35.1% for antibiotic therapy during pregnancy). Notably, the prevalence of treatment with amoxicillin and clavulanic acid was 44.4% in CPE carriers compared to 17.0% in non-carriers. The incidence density of CPE-associated bloodstream infection was 0.49 per 100 newborns, accounting for a fatal case of CPE-associated bacteremia identified in one of the 203 newborns. Seven environmental samples returned positive for CPE (5 sinks and two pieces of furniture). Whole genome sequencing, performed on the 25 CPE isolates, revealed isolates carrying blaNDM-7 (n=10), blaNDM-5 (n=3), blaOXA181 (n=10), blaOXA48 (n=2) or blaOXA244 (n=1), along with genetic traits associated with the ability to cause severe and difficult-to-treat infections in newborns. Core genome comparison revealed nine CPE belonging to three international high-risk clones: E. coli ST410 (four mothers and a sink), two E. coli ST167 (a mother and a piece of furniture), and K. pneumoniae ST307 (a sink and a piece of furniture), with highly similar genetic backgrounds shared by maternal and environmental isolates, suggesting maternal contamination originating from the environment. Discussion: Our study reveals key findings may guide the implementation of infection control measures to prevent nosocomial infections in newborns: the prevalence of CPE carriage in one out of 20 parturients, an infection occurring in one out of 400 newborns, substantial contamination of the care environment, clinical and environmental CPE isolates possessing genetic traits associated with the ability to cause severe and challenging infections, and clonal relationships between clinical and environmental isolates suggesting CPE spread within the wards, likely contributing to the acquisition and colonization of CPE by parturients during pregnancy.

CHEK2 germline variants identified in familial nonmedullary thyroid cancer lead to impaired protein structure and function.

Approximately 5 to 15% of nonmedullary thyroid cancers (NMTC) present in a familial form (familial nonmedullary thyroid cancers [FNMTC]). The genetic basis of FNMTC remains largely unknown, representing a limitation for diagnostic and clinical management. Recently, germline mutations in DNA repair-related genes have been described in cases with thyroid cancer (TC), suggesting a role in FNMTC etiology. Here, two FNMTC families were studied, each with two members affected with TC. Ninety-four hereditary cancer predisposition genes were analyzed through next-generation sequencing, revealing two germline CHEK2 missense variants (c.962A > C, p.E321A and c.470T > C, p.I157T), which segregated with TC in each FNMTC family. p.E321A, located in the CHK2 protein kinase domain, is a rare variant, previously unreported in the literature. Conversely, p.I157T, located in CHK2 forkhead-associated domain, has been extensively described, having conflicting interpretations of pathogenicity. CHK2 proteins (WT and variants) were characterized using biophysical methods, molecular dynamics simulations, and immunohistochemistry. Overall, biophysical characterization of these CHK2 variants showed that they have compromised structural and conformational stability and impaired kinase activity, compared to the WT protein. CHK2 appears to aggregate into amyloid-like fibrils in vitro, which opens future perspectives toward positioning CHK2 in cancer pathophysiology. CHK2 variants exhibited higher propensity for this conformational change, also displaying higher expression in thyroid tumors. The present findings support the utility of complementary biophysical and in silico approaches toward understanding the impact of genetic variants in protein structure and function, improving the current knowledge on CHEK2 variants' role in FNMTC genetic basis, with prospective clinical translation.

Adrenalectomy attenuates hyperalgesia but does not regulate muscle wasting in a female rat model of fibromyalgia.

Although it is well established that fibromyalgia (FM) syndrome is characterized by chronic diffuse musculoskeletal hyperalgesia, very little is known about the effect of this pathology on muscle tissue plasticity. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize the putative alterations in skeletal muscle mass in female rats subjected to a FM model by inducing chronic diffuse hyperalgesia (CDH) through double injections of acidic saline (pH 4.0) into the left gastrocnemius muscle at 5-day intervals. To determine protein turnover, the total proteolysis, proteolytic system activities and protein synthesis were evaluated in oxidative soleus muscles of pH 7.2 (control) and pH 4.0 groups at 7 days after CDH induction. All animals underwent behavioural analyses of mechanical hyperalgesia, strength and motor performance. Our results demonstrated that, in addition to hyperalgesia, rats injected with acidic saline exhibited skeletal muscle loss, as evidenced by a decrease in the soleus fibre cross-sectional area. This muscle loss was associated with increased proteasomal proteolysis and expression of the atrophy-related gene (muscle RING-finger protein-1), as well as reduced protein synthesis and decreased protein kinase B/S6 pathway activity. Although the plasma corticosterone concentration did not differ between the control and pH 4.0 groups, the removal of the adrenal glands attenuated hyperalgesia, but it did not prevent the increase in muscle protein loss in acidic saline-injected animals. The data suggests that the stress-related hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is involved in the development of hyperalgesia, but is not responsible for muscle atrophy observed in the FM model induced by intramuscular administration of acidic saline. Although the mechanisms involved in the attenuation of hyperalgesia in rats injected with acidic saline and subjected to adrenalectomy still need to be elucidated, the results found in this study suggest that glucocorticoids may not represent an effective therapeutic approach to alleviate FM symptoms.

Prevalência e Fatores de risco associados ao tabagismo e outras formas de consumo de tabaco em acadêmicos da saúde em Goiânia, Goiás / Prevalence and risk factors associated with smoking and other forms of tobacco consumption among health students in Goiânia, Goiás

Introdução: O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar e identificar a prevalência e fatores de risco associados ao tabagismo e outras formas de consumo de tabaco entre acadêmicos da saúde. Métodos: A pesquisa contou com 407 acadêmicos dos cursos de Biomedicina, Educação Física, Enfermagem, Farmácia, Fisioterapia e Nutrição de uma Instituição de Ensino Superior. A coleta de dados foi realizada no mês de maio de 2020, por um formulário eletrônico, disponibilizado em e-mail institucional, grupos de estudos e redes sociais. O procedimento ocorreu após aprovação pelo Comitê de Ética, cujo parecer 3.966.951. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes (79,6%) eram do sexo feminino, solteiros (75,2%) com idade média de 25,32 anos. O consumo de tabaco foi confirmado por 10,8% participantes. Quanto ao consumo de produtos derivados de tabaco 24,1% dos entrevistados já consumiram produto de tabaco, 8,6% assumiram tabagismo ocasional, e 4,2% tabagismo ativo. Conclusões: A associação entre tabagismo e as variáveis sociodemográficas demonstrou que alunos do curso de Farmácia (OR: 5,25 [IC:1,34-20,22] p=0,017), homens (OR: 1,71 [IC: 1,01 ­ 2,91]), estudantes turno matutino (OR: 1,96 [IC:1,02-3,78] p=0,04) e que residem com tabagistas (OR:4,44 [IC: 2,24-8,80]) apresentaram maiores chances de serem tabagista. A associação em relação ao consumo de derivados do tabaco, os homens apresentaram maiores prevalências de consumo de derivados de tabaco (OR: 1,71 [IC: 1,01 ­ 2,91] p=0,045) bem como, alunos do curso de Farmácia (OR: 6,40 [IC:2,31-17,7] P<0,01), que estudam no turno Noturno (OR:1,85 [IC:1,16-8,82] p=0,009) e entre os que residem com tabagistas (OR: 4,49 [IC:2,24-8,80] p<0,001).

Introduction: The present study aimed to investigate and identify the prevalence and risk factors associated with smoking and other forms of tobacco consumption among health academics. Methods: The survey involved 407 students from Biomedicine, Physical Education, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and Nutrition courses at a Higher Education Institution. Data collection was carried out in May 2020, through an electronic form, available in institutional email, study groups and social networks. The entire procedure took place after approval by the Ethics Committee. Results: Most participants (79.6%) were female, single (75.2%) with a mean age of 25.32 years. Tobacco consumption was confirmed by 10.8% of the participants. As for the consumption of tobacco products, 24.1% of the interviewees had already consumed some tobacco product, 8.6% assumed occasional smoking, and 4.2% active smoking. Conclusions: The association between smoking and sociodemographic variables showed that Pharmacy students (OR: 5.25 [CI:1.34-20.22] p=0.017), men (OR: 1.71 [CI: 1.01 ­ 2.91]), morning shift students (OR: 1.96 [CI:1.02-3.78] p=0.04) and those who live with smokers (OR:4.44 [CI : 2.24-8.80]) were more likely to be smokers. The association in relation to the consumption of tobacco derivatives, men had a higher prevalence of consumption of tobacco derivatives (OR: 1.71 [CI: 1.01 ­ 2.91] p=0.045) as well as Pharmacy students (OR: 6.40 [CI:2.31-17.7] P<0.01), those who study the night shift (OR:1.85 [CI:1.16-8.82] p=0.009 ) and among those who live with smokers (OR: 4.49 [CI:2.24-8.80] p<0.001).

Biomarkers profile in provoked versus unprovoked deep venous thrombosis

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), represents a substantial healthcare challenge. Provoked and unprovoked DVT cases carry distinct risks and treatment considerations. Recognizing the limitations of this classification, molecular markers may enhance diagnostic precision and guide anticoagulation therapy duration relying on patient history and risk factors. This preliminary, open-label, prospective cohort study was conducted including 15 patients (10 provoked DVT and 5 unprovoked DVT) and a control group of healthy plasmatic subjects. Plasma levels of 9 biomarkers were measured at diagnosis (baseline, day 0, and D0) and after 30 days (day 30-D30). Patient demographics, clinical data, and biomarker concentrations were analyzed. Serum concentrations of D-dimer, von Willebrand factor, C-reactive protein, and Anti-Xa were elevated in DVT groups at D0 compared to controls. No significant differences were observed between the provoked and unprovoked groups on the day of diagnosis and 30 days later. Over 30 days, the provoked group exhibited significant biomarker changes related to temporal assessment. No significant differences were noted in the biomarker profile between provoked and unprovoked DVT groups. This study is indicative of the concept of individualized thrombosis assessment and subsequent treatment for VTE. Larger cohorts are warranted to validate these findings and further define the most appropriate use of the molecular markers.

Extract2Chip-Bypassing Protein Purification in Drug Discovery Using Surface Plasmon Resonance.

Modern drug discovery relies on combinatorial screening campaigns to find drug molecules targeting specific disease-associated proteins. The success of such campaigns often relies on functional and structural information of the selected therapeutic target, only achievable once its purification is mastered. With the aim of bypassing the protein purification process to gain insights on the druggability, ligand binding, and/or characterization of protein-protein interactions, herein, we describe the Extract2Chip method. This approach builds on the immobilization of site-specific biotinylated proteins of interest, directly from cellular extracts, on avidin-coated sensor chips to allow for the characterization of molecular interactions via surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The developed method was initially validated using Cyclophilin D (CypD) and subsequently applied to other drug discovery projects in which the targets of interest were difficult to express, purify, and crystallize. Extract2Chip was successfully applied to the characterization of Yes-associated protein (YAP): Transcriptional enhancer factor TEF (TEAD1) protein-protein interaction inhibitors, in the validation of a ternary complex assembly composed of Dyskerin pseudouridine synthase 1 (DKC1) and RuvBL1/RuvBL2, and in the establishment of a fast-screening platform to select the most suitable NUAK family SNF1-like kinase 2 (NUAK2) surrogate for binding and structural studies. The described method paves the way for a potential revival of the many drug discovery campaigns that have failed to deliver due to the lack of suitable and sufficient protein supply.

Academic trajectory of Prof. Ana Marlúcia Oliveira: contributions to the field of food and nutrition in Brazil. / Trajetória acadêmica da Profa. Ana Marlúcia Oliveira: contribuições para o campo da alimentação e nutrição no Brasil.

It will be presented the main academic contributions of Professor Ana Marlúcia Oliveira (AMO) (in memoriam), nutritionist, professor at the School of Nutrition at the Federal University of Bahia, Ph.D. in epidemiology and CNPQ Researcher level A, from 1980 to 2021. Professor Ana accumulated, throughout her academic career, scientific articles published in national and international journals; book and book chapters authored by her; papers presented at scientific events, in addition to guiding scientific projects, dissertations and theses. She has coordinated several research projects in the field of food and nutrition in public health, with a focus on nutritional epidemiology. The scope of the subjects addressed in her scientific production expressed the concern that mobilized her around the production of knowledge to face the complex health and nutrition problems in Brazil. Her way of being in the world, welcoming and caring for people who approached her seeking qualification opportunities, her example, words and teachings influenced, and still influence, the trajectory and training of nutritionists, professors and researchers at ENUFBA and other national and international institutions. She was a Brazilian researcher and intellectual committed to the health of the most vulnerable populations and the fight against malnutrition and hunger in our country. Her wide and fruitful work left us a legacy to be remembered and continued. Some of her friends, colleagues and collaborators pay this tribute to her memory, to her example and to the legacy she left for all of us and future generations.

São apresentadas neste artigo as principais contribuições acadêmicas da Profa. Marlúcia Oliveira (AMO) (in memoriam), nutricionista, docente da Escola de Nutrição da Universidade Federal da Bahia, Doutora em Epidemiologia e Pesquisadora A do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPQ), no período de 1980 a 2021. A Profa. Ana acumulou, ao longo de sua carreira acadêmica, artigos científicos publicados em periódicos nacionais e internacionais; livro e capítulos de livro de sua autoria; trabalhos apresentados em eventos científicos, além de ter orientado projetos de iniciação científica, dissertações e teses. Coordenou vários projetos de pesquisa no campo da alimentação e nutrição em saúde coletiva, com foco na epidemiologia nutricional. O escopo dos assuntos abordados na sua produção científica expressou a inquietude que a mobilizava em torno da produção de conhecimentos para o enfrentamento dos complexos problemas de saúde e nutrição do Brasil. Sua forma de ser no mundo, acolhendo e cuidando das pessoas que se aproximavam em busca de oportunidades de qualificação, seu exemplo, suas palavras e ensinamentos influenciaram, e ainda influenciam, a trajetória e a formação de nutricionistas e de professores e pesquisadores na Escola de Nutrição da Universidade Federal da Bahia (ENUFBA) e em outras instituições nacionais e internacionais. Trata-se de uma pesquisadora e intelectual brasileira comprometida com a saúde das populações mais vulneráveis e com o combate contra a desnutrição e a fome no nosso país. Sua vasta e fecunda obra nos deixou um legado a ser lembrado e continuado. Alguns dos seus amigos, colegas e colaboradores prestam este tributo à sua memória e ao legado que ela deixou para todos nós e para as próximas gerações.

Impact of a training strategy on improving compliance of hand hygiene and gloving during the placement of a short peripheral venous catheter: the multicentre study CleanHand4.

BACKGROUND: Patients who have short peripheral venous catheters (PVC) face an elevated risk of developing bloodstream infections. Preventing catheter-related infections relies on implementing multiple measures, including practicing proper hand hygiene (HH) during catheter placement. METHODS: We conducted a four-part study: (1) an evaluation of HH practices through direct observation of PVC placements, coupled with the study of the microbial flora of the HCWs fingers just before the placement; (2) the development of an educational tool based on the collected observational and microbiological data; (3) the training to the HCWs observed during the first part, using this tool; and (4) the subsequent observation of the trained HCWs to measure the impact of the training on practice improvement. RESULTS: Compliant HH was observed in 23.5% of the 647 HCWs observed during PVC placement before training. The microbiological study revealed fewer pathogens on the fingertips of the HCWs practicing compliant HH compared other HCWs (2.6 vs 11,7%; p = 0.003). The comparison of practices before and after training, assessed among 180 HCWs, showed an increase in the proportion of HCWs performing compliant HH (25.0 vs 63.2%; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Training HCWs using our educational tool, which combines reminders of best practices and risk factors associated with PVC-related infections, engaging HCWs (presentation of practice evaluation), identifying professionals deviating from best practices (simulation videos), and objectively assessing fingertip contamination (microbiological study), significantly improved compliance with HH gestures and glove usage. We encourage infection control teams to utilize this tool to raise awareness among HCWs responsible for PVC placement about the risk of infection associated inadequate hand hygiene.

Non-canonical Ca2+- Akt signaling pathway mediates the antiproteolytic effects induced by oxytocin receptor stimulation in skeletal muscle.

Although it has been previously demonstrated that oxytocin (OXT) receptor stimulation can control skeletal muscle mass in vivo, the intracellular mechanisms that mediate this effect are still poorly understood. Thus, rat oxidative skeletal muscles were isolated and incubated with OXT or WAY-267,464, a non-peptide selective OXT receptor (OXTR) agonist, in the presence or absence of atosiban (ATB), an OXTR antagonist, and overall proteolysis was evaluated. The results indicated that both OXT and WAY-267,464 suppressed muscle proteolysis, and this effect was blocked by the addition of ATB. Furthermore, the WAY-induced anti-catabolic action on protein metabolism did not involve the coupling between OXTR and Gαi since it was insensitive to pertussis toxin (PTX). The decrease in overall proteolysis induced by WAY was probably due to the inhibition of the autophagic/lysosomal system, as estimated by the decrease in LC3 (an autophagic/lysosomal marker), and was accompanied by an increase in the content of Ca2+-dependent protein kinase (PKC)-phosphorylated substrates, pSer473-Akt, and pSer256-FoxO1. Most of these effects were blocked by the inhibition of inositol triphosphate receptors (IP3R), which mediate Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum to the cytoplasm, and triciribine, an Akt inhibitor. Taken together, these findings indicate that the stimulation of OXTR directly induces skeletal muscle protein-sparing effects through a Gαq/IP3R/Ca2+-dependent pathway and crosstalk with Akt/FoxO1 signaling, which consequently decreases the expression of genes related to atrophy, such as LC3, as well as muscle proteolysis.

Association between Socioeconomic Factors, Food Insecurity, and Dietary Patterns of Adolescents: A Latent Class Analysis.

Socioeconomic factors and food insecurity play a fundamental role in the food choices of adolescents, and in addition to influencing access to food, they also have significant effects on dietary patterns. The objectives of this study were to identify the dietary patterns of adolescents through the application of latent class analysis and to evaluate their association with socioeconomic variables and food insecurity. This cross-sectional study was conducted with adolescents aged between 11 and 17 years from public schools. Latent class analysis was used to identify the dietary patterns. Associations between socioeconomic factors, food insecurity and dietary patterns were assessed using multinomial logistic regression (odds ratio (OR); 95% confidence interval (CI)). Among the 1215 participants in the study, four dietary patterns were identified: "Mixed", "Low consumption", "Prudent" and "Diverse". A "Diverse" dietary pattern was associated with a lower economic stratum (OR:2.02; CI:1.26-3.24). There was no association between food insecurity and identified dietary patterns. These results highlight the importance of promoting healthy eating in this age group at all socioeconomic levels, especially the lowest level.

A Deep Learning Neural Network to Classify Obesity Risk in Portuguese Adolescents Based on Physical Fitness Levels and Body Mass Index Percentiles: Insights for National Health Policies.

The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults is a risk factor for many chronic diseases and death. In addition, obesity among children and adolescents has reached unprecedented levels and studies show that obese children and adolescents are more likely to become obese adults. Therefore, both the prevention and treatment of obesity in adolescents are critical. This study aimed to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) neural network (NNET) model that identifies the risk of obesity in Portuguese adolescents based on their body mass index (BMI) percentiles and levels of physical fitness. Using datasets from the FITescola® project, 654 adolescents aged between 10-19 years old, male: 334 (51%), female: n = 320 (49%), age 13.8 ± 2 years old, were selected to participate in a cross-sectional observational study. Physical fitness variables, age, and sex were used to identify the risk of obesity. The NNET had good accuracy (75%) and performance validation through the Receiver Operating Characteristic using the Area Under the Curve (ROC AUC = 64%) in identifying the risk of obesity in Portuguese adolescents based on the BMI percentiles. Correlations of moderate effect size were perceived for aerobic fitness (AF), upper limbs strength (ULS), and sprint time (ST), showing that some physical fitness variables contributed to the obesity risk of the adolescents. Our NNET presented a good accuracy (75%) and was validated with the K-Folds Cross-Validation (K-Folds CV) with good accuracy (71%) and ROC AUC (66%). According to the NNET, there was an increased risk of obesity linked to low physical fitness in Portuguese teenagers.

Antioxidants and cardioprotective effects of ethyl acetate fraction of Canavalia rosea leaves in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Different degrees in the biological activities of Canavalia rosea had been previously reported . In this study, our group assessed the cardioprotective effects of the ethyl acetate fraction (EAcF) of the Canavalia rosea leaves. Firstly, it was confirmed, by in vitro approach, that the EAcF has high antioxidant properties due to the presence of important secondary metabolites, as flavonoids. In order to explore their potential protector against cardiovascular disorders, hearts were previously perfused with EAcF (300 µg.mL-1) and submitted to the global ischemia followed by reperfusion in Langendorff system. The present findings have demonstrated that EAcF restored the left ventricular developed pressure and decreased the arrhythmias severity index. Furthermore, EAcF significantly increased the glutathiones peroxidase activity with decreased malondialdehyde and creatine kinase levels. EAcF was effective upon neither the superoxide dismutase, glutationes reductase nor the catalase activities. In addition, the Western blot analysis revealed that ischemia-reperfusion injury significantly upregulates caspase 3 protein expression, while EAcF abolishes this effect. These results provide evidence that the EAcF reestablishes the cardiac contractility and prevents arrhythmias; it is suggested that EAcF could be used to reduce injury caused by cardiac reperfusion. However more clinical studies should be performed, before applying it in the clinic.

Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Adults from Penafiel, Portugal: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The aim of this study was to compare the physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) levels of young and middle-aged adults living in and around the municipality of Penafiel and to determine whether they meet PA recommendations. The researchers used the "International Physical Activity Questionnaire" (IPAQ) to measure moderate to vigorous PA and time spent on sedentary behavior (high vs. low). A prospective observational cross-sectional sample of 1105 adults aged 18-63 years, living in the municipality of Penafiel and its surroundings (45% women, 55% men), was used. The results indicated that more than half of the population was inactive (53.8%) and sedentary (54.0%). Men were more likely to be sedentary (59.2%) and inactive (55.6%) than women (inactive: 51.7%, high SB: 47.7%). Regarding daily PA and SB levels, women had higher levels of walks (3.8 ± 2.3; p = 0.034) and vigorous PA (2.2 ± 1.8 min; p = 0.005) per days/week, as well as vigorous PA per minutes/week (75.4 ± 82.1 min; p = 0.034). The time spent on vigorous PA per day was also higher in women (26.2 ± 22.8 min; p = 0.030). However, men had higher values in walking minutes per day (26.3 ± 17.1 min; p = 0.030), SB for weekdays (429.2 ± 141.2 min; p = 0.001), SB for weekends (324.7 ± 163.7 min; p = 0.033) and time spent on SB per minutes/week (2795.6 ± 882.0 min; p = 0.001). The results also showed that the older the adults, the lower the frequency and total time of vigorous PA per week. Young adults (18-28 years) had higher levels of vigorous PA (p = 0.005) than the other age groups (29-39; 40-50 and 51-63 years). Finally, the study found no significant correlation between individual level factors, such as number of children, marital status and monthly income, and PA or SB. Conversely, a significant and negative correlation between SB and levels of PA was found, indicating that the higher the level of PA practice, the lower the SB level. The authors suggest that promoting new PA habits and healthy lifestyles is an important future challenge for sustainability and improving the quality of life in public health.