Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) nanoparticles modulate metals toxicity in Hydra viridissima.

The use of bioplastics (e.g., polyhydroxybutyrate) emerged as a solution to help reduce plastic pollution caused by conventional plastics. Nevertheless, bioplastics share many characteristics with their conventional counterparts, such as degradation to nano-sized particles and the ability to sorb environmental pollutants, like metals. This study aimed to assess the potential impacts of the interaction of metals (cadmium - Cd, copper - Cu, and zinc - Zn) with polyhydroxybutyrate nanoplastics (PHB-NPLs; ~200 nm) on the freshwater cnidarian Hydra viridissima in terms of mortality rates, morphological alterations, and feeding behavior. The metal concentrations selected for the combined exposures corresponded to concentrations causing 20 %, 50 %, and 80 % of mortality (LC20, LC50, and LC80, respectively) and the PHB-NPLs concentrations ranged from 0.01 to 1000 µg/L. H. viridissima sensitivity to the metals, based on the LC50's, can be ordered as: Zn < Cd < Cu. Combined exposure to metals and PHB-NPLs yielded distinct outcomes concerning mortality, morphological changes, and feeding behavior, uncovering metal- and dose-specific responses. The interaction between Cd-LCx and PHB-NPLs progressed from no effect at LC20,96h to an ameliorative effect at Cd-LC50,96h. Cu-LCx revealed potential mitigation effects (LC20,96h and LC50,96h) but at Cu-LC80,96h the response shifts to a potentiating effect. For Zn-LCx, response patterns across the combinations with PHB-NPLs were like those induced by the metal alone. PHB-NPLs emerged as a key factor capable of modulating the toxicity of metals. This study highlights the context-dependent interactions between metals and PHB-NPLs in freshwater environments while supporting the need for further investigation of the underlying mechanisms and ecological consequences in forthcoming research.

The Role of Life Stages in the Sensitivity of Hediste diversicolor to Nanoplastics: A Case Study with Poly(Methyl)Methacrylate (PMMA).

The presence of plastic particles in oceans has been recognized as a major environmental concern. The decrease in particle size increases their ability to directly interact with biota, with particles in the nanometer size range (nanoplastics-NPs) displaying a higher ability to penetrate biological membranes, which increases with the decrease in particle size. This study aimed to evaluate the role of life stages in the effects of poly(methyl)methacrylate (PMMA) NPs on the polychaete Hediste diversicolor, a key species in the marine food web and nutrient cycle. Thus, behavioral (burrowing activity in clean and spiked sediment) and biochemical endpoints (neurotransmission, energy reserves, antioxidant defenses, and oxidative damage) were assessed in juvenile and adult organisms after 10 days of exposure to spiked sediment (between 0.5 and 128 mg PMMA NPs/Kg sediment). Overall, the results show that H. diversicolor is sensitive to the presence of PMMA NPs. In juveniles, exposed organisms took longer to burrow in sediment, with significant differences from the controls being observed at all tested concentrations when the test was performed with clean sediment, whereas in PMMA NP-spiked sediment, effects were only found at the concentrations 8, 32, and 128 mg PMMA NPs/Kg sediment. Adults displayed lower sensitivity, with differences to controls being found, for both sediment types, at 8, 32, and 128 mg PMMA NPs/Kg sediment. In terms of Acetylcholinesterase, used as a marker of effects on neurotransmission, juveniles and adults displayed opposite trends, with exposed juveniles displaying increased activity (suggesting apoptosis), whereas in adults, overall decreased activity was found. Energy-related parameters revealed a generally similar pattern (increase in exposed organisms) and higher sensitivity in juveniles (significant effects even at the lower concentrations). NPs also demonstrated the ability to increase antioxidant defenses (higher in juveniles), with oxidative damage only being found in terms of protein carbonylation (all tested NPs conditions) in juveniles. Overall, the data reveal the potential of PMMA NPs to affect behavior and induce toxic effects in H. diversicolor, with greater effects in juveniles.

Optimized Synthesis of Poly(Lactic Acid) Nanoparticles for the Encapsulation of Flutamide.

Biopolymeric nanoparticles (NPs) have gained significant attention in several areas as an alternative to synthetic polymeric NPs due to growing environmental and immunological concerns. Among the most promising biopolymers is poly(lactic acid) (PLA), with a reported high degree of biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this work, PLA NPs were synthesized according to a controlled gelation process using a combination of single-emulsion and nanoprecipitation methods. This study evaluated the influence of several experimental parameters for accurate control of the PLA NPs' size distribution and aggregation. Tip sonication (as the stirring method), a PLA concentration of 10 mg/mL, a PVA concentration of 2.5 mg/mL, and low-molecular-weight PLA (Mw = 5000) were established as the best experimental conditions to obtain monodisperse PLA NPs. After gelification process optimization, flutamide (FLU) was used as a model drug to evaluate the encapsulation capability of the PLA NPs. The results showed an encapsulation efficiency of 44% for this cytostatic compound. Furthermore, preliminary cell viability tests showed that the FLU@PLA NPs allowed cell viabilities above 90% up to a concentration of 20 mg/L. The comprehensive findings showcase that the PLA NPs fabricated using this straightforward gelification method hold promise for encapsulating cytostatic compounds, offering a novel avenue for precise drug delivery in cancer therapy.

Short- and long-term toxicity of nano-sized polyhydroxybutyrate to the freshwater cnidarian Hydra viridissima.

The accumulation of increasingly smaller plastic particles in aquatic ecosystems is a prominent environmental issue and is causing a significant impact on aquatic biota. In response to this challenge, biodegradable plastics have emerged as a potential ecological alternative. Nevertheless, despite recent progress in polymer toxicology, there is still limited understanding of the ecological implications of biodegradable plastics in freshwater ecosystems. This study evaluated the toxicity of polyhydroxybutyrate nano-sized particles (PHB-NPLs) on the freshwater cnidarian Hydra viridissima assessing individual and population-level effects. Data revealed low toxicity of PHB-NPLs to H. viridissima in the short-term, as evidenced by the absence of significant malformations and mortality after the 96-h assays. In addition, hydras exhibited rapid and complete regeneration after 96 h of exposure to PHB-NPLs. Feeding assays revealed no significant alterations in prey consumption behavior in the 96-h mortality and malformations assay and the regeneration assay. However, significantly increased feeding rates were observed after long-term exposure, across all tested concentrations of PHB-NPLs. This increase may be attributed to the organisms' heightened energetic demand, stemming from prolonged activation of detoxification mechanisms. These changes may have a cascading effect within the food web, influencing community dynamics and ecosystem stability. Furthermore, a dose-dependent response on the hydras' populational growth was found, with an estimated 20 % effect concentration (EC20,8d) on this endpoint of 10.9 mg PHB-NPLs/L that suggests potential long-term impacts on the population's reproductive output and potential depression and local extinction upon long-term exposure to PHB-NPLs on H. viridissima. The obtained data emphasizes the importance of evaluating sublethal effects and supports the adoption of long-term assays when assessing the toxicity of novel polymers, providing crucial data for informed regulation to safeguard freshwater ecosystems. Future research should aim to unravel the underlying mechanisms behind these sublethal effects, as well as the impact of the generated degradation products.

Sub-chronic exposure to paroxetine disrupts ecologically relevant behaviours in fish.

The functional conservation of important selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) targets in non-target organisms raises concerns about their potential adverse effects on the ecosystems. Although the environmental levels of SSRIs like paroxetine (PAR) have risen, the knowledge regarding the effects of long-term exposure to PAR is limited. This study investigated the impact of sub-chronic exposure (21 days) to two sub-lethal concentrations of PAR (40 and 400 µg/L) on the behaviour of adult zebrafish in different scenarios: basal activity (under dark and light conditions), stress response (evoked by sudden light transitions) and stress response recovery. A new framework was employed for the integrative study of fish's swimming performance based on their innate ability to respond to light shifts. Several swimming-associated parameters (e.g., total swimming distance, time of inactivity, swimming angles) and thigmotaxis were monitored for an integrated analysis in each scenario. Data revealed reduced swimming activity, impaired behavioural response to stress and alterations in stress recovery of PAR-exposed fish. An anxiolytic effect was particularly noticeable in fish basal swimming activity in the dark at 400 µg/L and in the behavioural response to stress (from dark to light) and stress recovery (from light to dark) for organisms exposed to 40 µg/L. The detected PAR-induced behavioural modifications suggest a disruption of brain glucocorticoid signalling that may have implications at the individual level (e.g., changing behavioural responses to predators), with potential repercussions on the population and community levels. Therefore, the applied protocol proved sensitive in detecting behavioural changes induced by PAR.

Effects of polymethylmethacrylate nanoplastics on the polychaete Hediste diversicolor: Behavioural, regenerative, and biochemical responses.

Plastics, particularly microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), have been regarded as pollutants of emerging concern due to their effects on organisms and ecosystems, especially considering marine environments. However, in terms of NPs, there is still a knowledge gap regarding the effects of size and polymer on marine invertebrates, such as benthic organisms. Therefore, this study aimed to understand, regarding behavioural, physiological, and biochemical endpoints (neurotransmission, energy metabolism, antioxidant status, and oxidative damage), the effects of 50 nm waterborne polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) NPs (0.5 to 500 µg/L) on the marine benthic polychaete Hediste diversicolor, a key species in estuarine and coastal ecosystems. Results demonstrated that worms exposed to PMMA NPs had a shorter burrowing time than control organisms. Nevertheless, worms exposed to PMMA NPs (0.5 and 500 µg/L) decreased cholinesterase activity. Energy metabolism was decreased at 50 and 500 µg/L, and glycogen content decreased at all concentrations of PMMA NPs. Enzymes related to the antioxidant defence system (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) displayed increased activities in H. diversicolor specimens exposed to concentrations between 0.5 and 500 µg/L, which led to no damage at the cell membrane and protein levels. In this study, polychaetes also displayed a lower regenerative capacity when exposed to PMMA NPs. Overall, the data obtained in this study emphasize the potential consequences of PMMA NPs to benthic worms, particularly between 0.5 and 50 µg/L, with polychaetes exposed to 50 µg/L being the most impacted by the analysed NPs. However, since sediments are considered to be sinks and sources of plastics, further studies are needed to better understand the impacts of different sizes and polymers on marine organisms, particularly benthic species.

Increased Neutrophil Percentage and Neutrophil-T Cell Ratio Precedes Clinical Onset of Experimental Cerebral Malaria.

Newly emerging data suggest that several neutrophil defense mechanisms may play a role in both aggravating and protecting against malaria. These exciting findings suggest that the balance of these cells in the host body may have an impact on the pathogenesis of malaria. To fully understand the role of neutrophils in severe forms of malaria, such as cerebral malaria (CM), it is critical to gain a comprehensive understanding of their behavior and functions. This study investigated the dynamics of neutrophil and T cell responses in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA, murine models of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) and non-cerebral experimental malaria, respectively. The results demonstrated an increase in neutrophil percentage and neutrophil-T cell ratios in the spleen and blood before the development of clinical signs of ECM, which is a phenomenon not observed in the non-susceptible model of cerebral malaria. Furthermore, despite the development of distinct forms of malaria in the two strains of infected animals, parasitemia levels showed equivalent increases throughout the infection period evaluated. These findings suggest that the neutrophil percentage and neutrophil-T cell ratios may be valuable predictive tools for assessing the dynamics and composition of immune responses involved in the determinism of ECM development, thus contributing to the advancing of our understanding of its pathogenesis.

Public perceptions about the invasive pampas grass, Cortaderia selloana: a case study of environmentally conscious citizens in Southern Europe.

Cortaderia selloana (pampas grass), native to South America, is a widespread invasive plant in several regions of the World, including the south of the Atlantic Arc (Europe), where it has been used as an ornamental species. Citizens may help to spread it, e.g., planting it in their gardens, but on the other hand, when they are aware of its invasiveness, can contribute to control it and prevent its spread. An online survey was performed to better understand the perception and knowledge of Portuguese and Spanish citizens, regarding pampas grass. The influence of education and occupation, along with age, gender and country of residence, on the knowledge and perceptions of respondents was analysed. The questionnaire was answered by 486 and 839 citizens in Portugal (PT) and Spain (ES), respectively. Most respondents were between 41 and 64 years old, mostly women in Portugal and equally women and men in Spain, with higher education and working mostly in the services sector. The majority of respondents in both countries recognized the plant, knew it is invasive and were able to name it, alerting to a possible bias of the target audience toward citizens already aware of the invasiveness of the pampas grass. Fewer respondents were aware of the legislation that limits its use, and most were unable to identify particular characteristics of the species. The results showed that respondents' occupation in PT and education in ES influenced their knowledge and perception about pampas grass. This study confirms that education and raising awareness regarding invasive species is of utmost importance, as respondents identified academic training and projects with a strong focus on public awareness as the main sources of knowledge regarding pampas grass. Better informed citizens can be part of the solution rather than part of the problem, especially regarding invasive species with such ornamental interest as pampas grass. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10530-023-03025-3.

Conradi-Hünerman-Happle Syndrome and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: a clinical case report.

BACKGROUND: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common and chronic psychiatric disorder with significant morbidity characterized by intrusive, uncontrollable and reoccurring thoughts (i.e., obsessions) and/or ritualistic behaviours (i.e., compulsions). Conradi-Hünerman-Happle Syndrome (CHHS) is a rare inherited X-linked dominant variant of chondrodysplasia punctata, a heterogeneous group of rare bone dysplasias characterized by punctate epiphyseal calcifications of complex etiology and pathophysiology that remain to be defined. Available literature reveals a lacuna in regards to the coexistence of the entities with no clinical reports described. CASE PRESENTATION: A 12 year old female patient with diagnosis of CHHS, presents to psychiatric consultation due to aggravation of her OCD clinical picture, with aggravation of hand-washing frequency during the Covid-19 pandemic with significant functional impact. Psychopharmacological treatment aimed at OCD with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) and antipsychotic was instituted with favourable, albeit partial response. CONCLUSIONS: The authors aim to describe a clinical case in which the patient presents with Conradi-Hünerman-Happle Syndrome and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Clinical descriptions of CHHS and OCD are not available in the literature. Through this case description the authors aim to present a rare case as well as discuss an eventual association between etiology and/or pathophysiology of the two disorders.

[Clinical nutrition: what's new in 2022]. / Nutrition clinique : ce qui a changé en 2022.

In 2022, the European Society of Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition (ESPEN) has released several relevant updates and guidelines. This review will highlight the key messages of three guidelines focusing on nutritional management in the geriatric population, micronutrient disorders, and sarcopenic obesity. Special emphasis will be directed towards recommendations impacting ambulatory clinical practice.

L'année 2022 a été riche en nouvelles recommandations émises par la Société européenne de nutrition clinique (ESPEN). De la prise en charge nutritionnelle en gériatrie aux micronutriments, tout en abordant le spectre de l'obésité sarcopénique, cette mise à jour a pour objet de synthétiser les messages clés de ces recommandations et de discuter leur impact sur la pratique clinique ambulatoire.

Effectiveness of Early Mobilization in Prevention and Rehabilitation of Functional Impairment After Myocardial Revascularization Surgery: A Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction Myocardial revascularization surgery is associated with high morbidity and mortality, due to factors like the general anesthesia and the surgical procedure itself. Physiotherapy, combined with early mobilization (EM), can provide the patient with better functional parameters. Objective To review, identify and describe the effectiveness of EM in the prevention and rehabilitation of functional parameters of coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Methodology This is a systematic review conducted between February 2020 and 2021 of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published in the Cochrane databases Library, LILACS, Scielo and Medline / PubMed. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used for assessment of the methodological quality of studies included. Results Four studies were reviewed. Two articles assessed functional capacity, one using the cycle ergometer and one with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) together with active exercises and early walking. One article reported a reduction in the incidence of atelectasis and pleural effusion with EM and one article reported improvements in the alveolus-artery gradient and inspiratory muscle power using an inspiratory muscle trainer combined with EM. Conclusion EM is effective in the prevention and rehabilitation of functional parameters after CABG surgery, by improving functional capacity, respiratory muscle power, quality of life and gas exchange, and reducing the incidence of atelectasis and pleural effusion.

Dilemas e peculiaridades da psicologia no Centro de Referência da Assistência Social / Dilemmas and peculiarities of psychology in social assistance reference center / Dilemas y peculiaridades de la psicología en el centro de referencia de la asistencia social

A inserção da Psicologia na Política Nacional de Assistência Social é recente e tem demandado novos saberes e fazeres. Assim, este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar as peculiaridades da inserção da Psicologia no Centro de Referência da Assistência Social (CRAS). Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo exploratório com dez psicólogas vinculadas aos CRAS do Município de Natal/RN. Os resultados indicaram que o CRAS propiciou um novo escopo de práticas para o campo da Psicologia, por meio de um trabalho de caráter psicossocial, uma atuação interdisciplinar e uma maior aproximação comunitária, embora ainda permaneçam os desafios no que tange a demarcação da sua atuação no campo social. Portanto, se torna imprescindível propor uma prática que assegure os direitos sociais dos usuários e um olhar crítico no trabalho cotidiano, transformando os dilemas em pautas de lutas junto com trabalhadores e usuários do Sistema Único de Assistência Social (AU).

The insertion of Psychology in the National Policy of Social Work is recent and has demanded new knowledge and practices. Thus, this paper aims to analyze peculiarities of the insertion of Psychology in CRAS. Therefore, an exploratory study was carried outwith ten psychologists linked to the CRAS of the city of Natal/RN. Results indicated the CRAS provided a new scope of practices for the Psychology field, an interdisciplinary acting and a closer approach to the community, although still remain challenges regarding to the demarcation of CRAS' work in the social field. Therefore, it is essential to propose a kind of practice that ensures users' social rights and a critical look at psychologists' daily work, turning their dilemmas into an agenda with workers and users of the Unified Social Assistance System (SUAS) (AU).

La inserción de la Psicología en la Política Nacional de Asistencia Social es reciente y ha demandado nuevos saberes y quehaceres. Así, este trabajo tiene como objetivo analizar las peculiaridades de la inserción de la Psicología en el CRAS. Para ello, se realizó un estudio exploratorio con diez psicólogas vinculadas a los CRAS de la ciudad de Natal/RN. Los resultados indicaron que el CRAS propició un nuevo escopo de prácticas para el campo de la Psicología, por medio de un trabajo de carácter psicosocial, una actuación interdisciplinaria y una mayor aproximación comunitaria, aunque permanezcan los desafíos en lo que se refiere a la demarcación de su actuación en el campo social. Por lo tanto, se torna imprescindible proponer una práctica que asegure los derechos sociales de los usuarios y una mirada crítica a su trabajo cotidiano, transformando sus dilemas en pauta de luchas junto con trabajadores y usuarios del Sistema Único de Asistencia Social (SUAS) (AU).

Effects of nanoplastics on zebrafish embryo-larval stages: A case study with polystyrene (PS) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) particles.

Plastic production has been rising consistently in the last 30 years and with it, the presence of plastic particles in the environment. A decrease in size often increases the bioavailability and reactivity of the particles. In this study the impact of polystyrene (PS; 22 nm) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA; 32 nm) nanoparticles on zebrafish embryo-larval stages was assessed by studying mortality, hatching, morphological features, and biochemical endpoints (associated with neurotransmission, antioxidant status and oxidative damage, and energy metabolism) after 96 h exposure, and swimming behavior after 120 h exposure. Organisms exposed to PMMA nanoparticles exhibited higher mortality and pericardial edema than those exposed to PS nanoparticles but displayed less effects on swimming behavior. Biochemical endpoints were altered to a higher degree in organisms exposed to PS nanoparticles (acetylcholinesterase, glutathione S-transferase and catalase activities) but higher peroxidative damage was found after exposure to lower concentrations of PMMA nanoparticles. Both types of nanoparticles affected energy metabolism with higher levels of glycogen found in animals exposed to PS nanoparticles. The use of integrated biomarker response index confirmed that PS nanoparticles had a higher impact on biochemical endpoints of zebrafish.

Hydrothermal treatment as a complementary tool to control the invasive Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana).

The rapid spread of invasive Pampas grass (PG) is having not only ecosystems impact, but also significant economic and social effects. The tonnes of bulky waste from the plant disposal require proper treatment to avoid seed dispersal, greenhouse gas emissions and landscape damage. In the pursuit of zero-waste management, hydrothermal treatment (HT) appears as a challenging alternative. The possibility of mobile HT systems offers an alternative to accomplish on-site both the PG waste management and the application of the resulting by-products within a circular framework. As a first step, this research shows that, without a prior drying step, the hydrothermal treatment at 100-230 °C under autogenous water vapor pressure for only 30 min allows safe seeds inertization, while a stable carbon-enriched solid and an aqueous stream are generated. Prolonging the process for 2 h has no profitable effects. As the reaction temperature increases, the PG residue is converted into a material with 49-58 wt% of carbon, 41-32 wt% of oxygen and 3-4 wt% of ash. The pH (~6.3), low electrical conductivity (1.21-0.86 dS/m), high carbon content, open porosity (5-8 m2/g) and improved performance in seed germination and in the early growth test suggest the potential of HT-solids derived at 100-120 °C as amendment to sequester carbon in the soil and improve its physico-biological properties. The phytotoxicity detected in the peat/lignite-like solids obtained at 200-230 °C limits its application in soil, but calorific values of 22-24 MJ/kg indicate their suitability as CO2-neutral fuel. The agrochemical analysis of the liquid by-products indicates poor value on their own, but their use supplemented with compost may be an option.

Angioedema com haloperidol: um relato de caso / Angioedema with haloperidol: a case report

O haloperidol é um antipsicótico de primeira geração e um dos medicamentos mais usados dentro dessa categoria. É um potente antagonista de ação central dos recetores de dopamina tipo 2, com baixa atividade anti alfa 1 adrenérgica e sem atividade anti-histamínica ou anticolinérgica, regularmente utilizado em casos de agitação. O angioedema é um efeito colateral especialmente grave, caracterizado por edema acentuado do tecido subcutâneo ou submucoso, e pode afetar várias partes do corpo, podendo até culminar, nos casos mais graves, em morte. Já foi descrito com administração de vários antipsicóticos, como clozapina, risperidona, ziprazidona e clorpromazina, no entanto é raro como resultado da administração de haloperidol, ocorrendo em <1% dos casos. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever o desenvolvimento de angioedema em um paciente com síndrome confusional agudo após a segunda administração de haloperidol IM para controle sintomático da agitação em contexto de serviço de urgência. [au]

Haloperidol is a first-generation antipsychotic and one of the most commonly used drugs within this category. It is a potent centrally acting antagonist of type 2 dopamine receptors, with low anti-alpha-1-adrenergic activity and no antihistaminic or anticholinergic activity, regularly used in cases of agitation. Angioedema is an especially serious side effect, characterized by marked edema of the subcutaneous or submucosal tissue, and can affect various parts of the body, and may even culminate, in the most severe cases, in death. It has already been described with the administration of several antipsychotics, such as clozapine, risperidone, ziprasidone, and chlorpromazine, but it is rare as a result of administration of haloperidol, occurring in <1% of cases. This article aims to describe the development of angioedema in a patient with acute confusional syndrome after the second administration of IM haloperidol for symptomatic control of agitation in an emergency department setting. [au]

Análise do perfil de sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos de um hospital público de Aracaju, Sergipe / Antimicrobial sensitivity profile analysis of a public hospital in Aracaju, Sergipe

Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar os perfis microbiológicos e de sensibilidade dos anos de 2017 e 2018 das Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) neonatal, pediátrica e adulto de um hospital público de Aracaju, Sergipe. Métodos: Mediante a coleta secundária dos dados coletados com a Comissão de Controle de Infecção Hospitalar (CCIH). Resultados: Foram observados, neste estudo, alguns mecanismos de resistência, como: Staphylococcus aureus resistente à meticilina (MRSA), Klebsiella pneumonie produtora de b-lactamase de Espectro Estendido (ESBL), Enterobacter spp ESBL, P. aeruginosa ERC e Providencia stuartii ESBL, todas elas isoladas na UTI neonatal. Os antibióticos que demonstraram menores índices de sensibilidade na média geral para os microrganismos isolados foram: gentamicina, ampicilina e amoxicilina+ clavulanato. As drogas que apresentaram maiores índices de sensibilidade foram: colistina, polimixina B, amicacina, ciprofloxacino, imipenem, meropenem, linezolida, cefepima, piperacilina+tazobactam, vancomicina e teicoplanina. Conclusão: Diante disso, é imprescindível a conscientização dos profissionais de saúde juntamente com a comunidade, em relação à adequada prestação de serviços aos pacientes internados e quanto ao uso racional de antimicrobianos e, dessa maneira, contribuir para a redução das taxas de resistência bacteriana.

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the microbiological and sensitivity profiles of the years 2017 and 2018 of the neonatal, pediatric and adult Intensive Care Units (ICU) of a public hospital in Aracaju, Sergipe. Methods: Through the secondary collection of data collected with the Hospital Infection Control Commission (CCIH). Results: Some resistance mechanisms were observed in this study, such as: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Klebsiella pneumonie producer of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase (ESBL), Enterobacter spp ESBL, P. aeruginosa ERC and Providencia stuartii ESBL, all they were isolated in the neonatal ICU. The antibiotics that showed lower levels of sensitivity in the general average for the isolated microorganisms were: gentamicin, ampicillin and amoxicillin + clavulanate. The drugs that showed the highest levels of sensitivity were: colistin, polymyxin B, amikacin, ciprofloxacin, imipenem, meropenem, linezolid, cefepime, piperacillin + tazobactam, vancomycin and teicoplanin. Conclusion: Therefore, it is essential to raise the awareness of health professionals together with the community, regarding the adequate provision of services to hospitalized patients and regarding the rational use of antimicrobials and, in this way, contribute to the reduction of bacterial resistance rates.

Formação acadêmica e prática profissional dos psicólogos que trabalham em Universidades Federais / Academic training and professional practice of psychologists working in Federal Universities / Formación académica y práctica profesional de los psicólogos que trabajan en Universidades Federales

Resumo De 2003 a 2016, houve um processo de expansão das Instituições Federais de Ensino Superior (Ifes) que promoveu crescimento significativo das contratações de psicólogos por essas instituições. Diante disso, este trabalho procurou analisar a formação acadêmica e a prática profissional dos psicólogos que atuam nas Ifes por meio de duas etapas: inicialmente, realizou-se um levantamento dos psicólogos existentes nas Ifes e, em seguida, elaborou-se um questionário que foi respondido por 144 desses profissionais. As informações da primeira etapa da pesquisa indicaram que há 873 psicólogos atuando nas Ifes; que o período de maior contratação desses profissionais foi de 2008 a 2017; e que eles estão lotados em diferentes setores das Ifes, mas atuam majoritariamente na assistência estudantil. Os dados da segunda etapa do estudo indicaram que a maioria dos psicólogos que atuam nas Ifes são mulheres, tem idade entre 26 e 37 anos, apresentou tempo médio de formação inicial de 5 anos e tem qualificação lato ou stricto sensu. Os psicólogos têm enfrentado desafios variados e desenvolvido diversas atividades para responder às demandas existentes. Assim, os resultados sugerem que, no contexto de expansão e interiorização das Ifes, a psicologia tem atuado em um campo profícuo, especialmente por meio das políticas de acesso ao Ensino Superior e de permanência estudantil. (AU)

Abstract With the expansion of Federal Higher Education Institutions (IFES) between 2003 and 2016, the number of psychologists hired by these institutions significantly increased. In this scenario, this work sought to analyze the academic formation and professional practice of psychologists working in the IFES through a two-stage research. Initially, a survey of the existing psychologists in the IFES was performed, indicating the presence of 873 professionals actuating in different sectors of the institutions, being students' assistance the most common. This stage also verified that most professionals were hired between 2008 and 2017. Then, a questionnaire was structured and answered by 144 psychologists working in the IFES, indicating that most of them are women, aged from 26 to 37 years, with an initial training time of five years on average, and with a lato or stricto sensu qualification. The psychologists reported varied challenges in actuating within this environment, developing several strategies to meet with the existing demands. Thus, Psychology has had a productive field of action in the context of expansion and internalization of the IFES, especially through access and permanence policies. (AU)

Resumen De 2003 a 2016 hubo un proceso de expansión de las Instituciones Federales de Enseñanza Superior (IFES) que promovió un crecimiento significativo en las contrataciones de psicólogos para esas instituciones. Frente a lo anterior, este trabajo pretendió analizar la formación académica y la práctica profesional de los psicólogos que actúan en IFES. Para ello, se buscó la información en dos etapas: primero se realizó un levantamiento de los psicólogos existentes en IFES, después se construyó un cuestionario que se aplicó a 144 psicólogos que trabajan en IFES. La información de la primera etapa indicó que existen 873 psicólogos actuando en IFES, con el período de mayor contratación de estos profesionales entre 2008 y 2017, son diversos sectores de las IFES en que actúan, con mayor predominio en la asistencia estudiantil. Los datos de la segunda etapa indicaron que los profesionales psicólogos que actúan en IFES son la mayoría mujeres, con edades de entre 26 y 37 años, con tiempo promedio de formación inicial de 5 años y tienen calificación lato o stricto sensu. Los psicólogos se enfrentan a varios desafíos y desarrollan diversas actividades para responder a las necesidades existentes. Los resultados sugieren que, en el contexto de expansión e interiorización de las IFES, la Psicología tuvo un campo provechoso de actuación, especialmente en políticas de acceso a la enseñanza superior y de permanencia estudiantil. (AU)

The use of Hediste diversicolor in the study of emerging contaminants.

The contamination of aquatic environments has been the focus of research to understand effects on ecosystems and its species. Benthic organisms are considered potential targets since sediments act as sources and sinks for environmental contaminants. This review presents information on the effects of three types of emerging contaminants: pharmaceuticals (tested concentrations between 0.1 ng/L - 250 mg/L and 0.01 ng/g - 2.5 µg/g), metal-based nanoparticles (<100 nm) (tested concentrations between 10 µg/L - 1 mg/L and 5 - 140 µg/g) and micro(nano)plastics (tested concentrations between 5 µg/L - 50 mg/L and 10 - 50 mg/kg), on the polychaete Hediste diversicolor, a key species in estuarine/coastal ecosystems. Data shows that these contaminants promote alterations in burrowing activity (lowest concentration inducing effects: 10 ng/L), neurotransmission and damage related parameters (lowest concentration inducing effects: 100 ng/L). The characteristics of this polychaete, such as regenerative capacity, make the use of this species in biomedical studies involving environmental contaminants valuable.

Endophytic fungi isolated from Brazilian medicinal plants as potential producers of antioxidants and their relations with anti-inflammatory activity.

In this study, 19 endophytic fungi were isolated from Lafoensia pacari, Guazuma ulmifolia, Campomanesia xanthocarpa and Siparuna guianensis. Seventeen strains were molecularly identified as belonging to the genera Colletotrichum, Diaporthe, Bjerkandera, Talaromyces, Cochliobolus, Phaeophlebiopsis, Curvularia, and Xylaraceae. Assays for detecting antioxidant activity were performed by free radical scavenging activity using the DDPH and ABTS + methods. Based on the results with DPPH, two strains were selected to evaluate the presence of flavonoids and anti-inflammatory activity. A strong positive correlation was found between these activities and the presence of flavonoids. The anti-inflammatory activity of endophytic fungi is under explored; however, the Talaromyces obtained the best result of 87.33% protection of erythrocytes and Colletotrichium of 60.71%. This study demonstrated that endophytic fungi associated with selected plants are potential sources of novel antioxidant products.

Identification of hospitalized patients with community-acquired infection in whom treatment guidelines do not apply: a validated model.

OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate a clinical model to identify patients admitted to hospital with community-acquired infection (CAI) caused by pathogens resistant to antimicrobials recommended in current CAI treatment guidelines. METHODS: International prospective cohort study of consecutive patients admitted with bacterial infection. Logistic regression was used to associate risk factors with infection by a resistant organism. The final model was validated in an independent cohort. RESULTS: There were 527 patients in the derivation and 89 in the validation cohort. Independent risk factors identified were: atherosclerosis with functional impairment (Karnofsky index <70) [adjusted OR (aOR) (95% CI) = 2.19 (1.41-3.40)]; previous invasive procedures [adjusted OR (95% CI) = 1.98 (1.28-3.05)]; previous colonization with an MDR organism (MDRO) [aOR (95% CI) = 2.67 (1.48-4.81)]; and previous antimicrobial therapy [aOR (95% CI) = 2.81 (1.81-4.38)]. The area under the receiver operating characteristics (AU-ROC) curve (95% CI) for the final model was 0.75 (0.70-0.79). For a predicted probability ≥22% the sensitivity of the model was 82%, with a negative predictive value of 85%. In the validation cohort the sensitivity of the model was 96%. Using this model, unnecessary broad-spectrum therapy would be recommended in 30% of cases whereas undertreatment would occur in only 6% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: For patients hospitalized with CAI and none of the following risk factors: atherosclerosis with functional impairment; previous invasive procedures; antimicrobial therapy; or MDRO colonization, CAI guidelines can safely be applied. Whereas, for those with some of these risk factors, particularly if more than one, alternative antimicrobial regimens should be considered.