Bacteriemia asociada a catéteres venosos centrales no tunelizados en niños en hemodiálisis crónica / Bacteremia associated with non-tunneled central venous catheters in children undergoing chronic hemodialysis

Introducción. La infección asociada a catéter venoso central (CVC) es la principal complicación que presentan los pacientes en hemodiálisis en los que se usa este tipo de acceso. Objetivo. Estimar la incidencia de bacteriemia asociada a CVC no tunelizado, analizar la frecuencia de agentes causales y explorar factores de riesgo asociados en niños en hemodiálisis. Población y métodos. Estudio retrospectivo realizado en niños en hemodiálisis por CVC no tunelizado entre el 1 junio de 2015 y el 30 de junio de 2019. Para evaluar factores de riesgo predictores de bacteriemia asociada a CVC, se realizó regresión logística. Los factores de riesgo independiente se expresaron con odds ratio con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza del 95 %. Se consideró estadísticamente significativo un valor de p <0,05. Resultados. En este estudio se incluyeron 121 CVC no tunelizados. La incidencia de bacteriemia fue de 3,15 por 1000 días de catéter. El microorganismo aislado con mayor frecuencia fue Staphylococcus epidermidis (16 casos, 51,5 %). La infección previa del catéter fue el único factor de riesgo independiente encontrado para el desarrollo de bacteriemia asociada a CVC no tunelizado (OR: 2,84; IC95%: 1,017,96; p = 0,04). Conclusiones. El uso prolongado de los CVC no tunelizados para hemodiálisis crónica se asoció con una incidencia baja de bacteriemia. Los gérmenes grampositivos predominaron como agentes causales. La presencia de infección previa del CVC aumentó en casi 3 veces el riesgo de bacteriemia asociada a CVC en nuestra población pediátrica en hemodiálisis.

Introduction. Central venous catheter (CVC)-related infection is the main complication observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis with this type of venous access. Objective. To estimate the incidence of non-tunneled CVC-related bacteremia, analyze the frequency ofcausative agents, and explore associated risk factors in children undergoing hemodialysis. Population and methods. Retrospective study in children receiving hemodialysis via a non-tunneled CVC between June 1 st, 2015 and June 30 th, 2019. A logistic regression was carried out to assess risk factors that were predictors of CVC-related bacteremia. Independent risk factors were described as odds ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). A value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. A total of 121 non-tunneled CVCs were included in this study. The incidence of bacteremia was 3.15 per 1000 catheter-days. The most commonly isolated microorganism was Staphylococcus epidermidis(16 cases, 51.5%). Prior catheter infection was the only independent risk factor for the development of bacteremia associated with non-tunneled CVC (OR: 2.84, 95% CI: 1.01­7.96, p = 0.04). Conclusions. Prolonged use of non-tunneled CVCs for chronic hemodialysis was associated with a low incidence of bacteremia. Gram-positive microorganisms prevailed among causative agents. A prior CVC infection almost trebled the risk for CVC-related bacteremia in our pediatric population receiving hemodialysis.

Statistical physical modeling insights for urinary analgesic drug adsorption on carbon nanomaterial derivative.

The presence of phenazopyridine in water is an environmental problem that can cause damage to human health and the environment. However, few studies have reported the adsorption of this emerging contaminant from aqueous matrices. Furthermore, existing research explored only conventional modeling to describe the adsorption phenomenon without understanding the behavior at the molecular level. Herein, the statistical physical modeling of phenazopyridine adsorption into graphene oxide is reported. Steric, energetic, and thermodynamic interpretations were used to describe the phenomenon that controls drug adsorption. The equilibrium data were fitted by mono, double, and multi-layer models, considering factors such as the numbers of phenazopyridine molecules by adsorption sites, density of receptor sites, and half saturation concentration. Furthermore, the statistical physical approach also calculated the thermodynamic parameters (free enthalpy, internal energy, Gibbs free energy, and entropy). The maximum adsorption capacity at the equilibrium was reached at 298 K (510.94 mg g-1). The results showed the physical meaning of adsorption, indicating that the adsorption occurs in multiple layers. The temperature affected the density of receptor sites and half saturation concentration. At the same time, the adsorbed species assumes different positions on the adsorbent surface as a function of the increase in the temperature. Meanwhile, the thermodynamic functions revealed increased entropy with the temperature and the equilibrium concentration.

Analysis of factors associated with admission to the intensive care unit of children and adolescents with COVID-19: application of a multilevel model.

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with hospitalization in the intensive care unit in children and adolescents with COVID-19. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study using secondary data of hospitalized children and adolescents (zero to 18 years old) with COVID-19 reported in Paraíba from April 2020 to July 2021, totaling 486 records. Descriptive analysis, logistic regression and multilevel regression were performed, utilizing a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: According to logistic regression without hierarchical levels, there was an increased chance of admission to the intensive care unit for male patients (OR = 1.98; 95%CI 1.18 - 3.32), patients with respiratory distress (OR = 2.43; 95%CI 1.29 - 4.56), patients with dyspnea (OR = 3.57; 95%CI 1.77 - 7.18) and patients living in large cities (OR = 2.70; 95%CI 1.07 - 6.77). The likelihood of requiring intensive care was observed to decrease with increasing age (OR = 0.94; 95%CI = 0.90 - 0.97), the presence of cough (OR = 0.32; 95%CI 0.18 - 0.59) or fever (OR = 0.42; 95%CI 0.23 - 0.74) and increasing Gini index (OR = 0.003; 95%CI 0.000 - 0.243). According to the multilevel analysis, the odds of admission to the intensive care unit increased in male patients (OR = 1.70; 95%CI = 1.68-1.71) and with increasing population size of the municipality per 100,000 inhabitants (OR = 1.01; 95%CI 1.01-1.03); additionally, the odds of admission to the intensive care unit decreased for mixed-race versus non-brown-skinned patients (OR = 0.981; 95%CI 0.97 - 0.99) and increasing Gini index (OR = 0.02; 95%CI 0.02 - 0.02). CONCLUSION: The effects of patient characteristics and social context on the need for intensive care in children and adolescents with SARS-CoV-2 infection were better estimated with the inclusion of a multilevel regression model.

A Multi-Component Intervention to Improve Therapeutic Adherence in Uncontrolled Hypertensive Patients Within the Primary Care Level: A Before-and-After Study.

INTRODUCTION: Non-adherence to medication severely affects chronic disease control. AIM: To assess whether a multi-component intervention implemented at the public primary care level in Argentina improves adherence to antihypertensive medication and helps to reduce blood pressure (BP) levels in uncontrolled hypertensive patients. METHODS: A before-and-after study was conducted in five public primary care clinics located in the city of Almirante Brown, Argentina. One hundred and twenty-five uncontrolled hypertensive patients received a multi-component intervention based on the Chronic Care model and the 5As strategy (Ask, Advise, Agree, Assist, and Arrange). Medication possession ratio (MPR) and BP values were assessed before and after a 6-month period. RESULTS: The follow-up rate was 96.8%. Main baseline characteristics were as follows, male: 44.8%, mean age: 57.1 years (± 8.1), exclusive public healthcare coverage: 83.5%, primary school level or less: 68.8%, and mean systolic/diastolic BP: 157.4 (± 13.6)/97.7 (± 8.2) mmHg. After implementing the intervention, a significant increase in the proportion of adequate adherence (MPR ≥ 80%) was observed, from 16.8% at baseline to 47.2% (p < 0.001). A significant reduction of 16.4 mmHg (CI 95%: 19.6, 13.1) was observed for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 12.0 mmHg (CI 95%: 14.2, 9.9) for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.001). At 6 months, 51.2% of the population achieved blood pressure control (SBP < 140 mmHg and DBP < 90 mmHg). CONCLUSIONS: The study intervention was associated with an increased adherence rate, achieving a significant reduction in BP values and reaching BP control in more than half of the population.

Bacteremia associated with non-tunneled central venous catheters in children undergoing chronic hemodialysis. / Bacteriemia asociada a catéteres venosos centrales no tunelizados en niños en hemodiálisis crónica.

Introduction. Central venous catheter (CVC)-related infection is the main complication observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis with this type of venous access. Objective. To estimate the incidence of non-tunneled CVC-related bacteremia, analyze the frequency of causative agents, and explore associated risk factors in children undergoing hemodialysis. Population and methods. Retrospective study in children receiving hemodialysis via a non-tunneled CVC between June 1st, 2015 and June 30th, 2019. A logistic regression was carried out to assess risk factors that were predictors of CVC-related bacteremia. Independent risk factors were described as odds ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). A value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. A total of 121 non-tunneled CVCs were included in this study. The incidence of bacteremia was 3.15 per 1000 catheter-days. The most commonly isolated microorganism was Staphylococcus epidermidis (16 cases, 51.5%). Prior catheter infection was the only independent risk factor for the development of bacteremia associated with non-tunneled CVC (OR: 2.84, 95% CI: 1.01-7.96, p = 0.04). Conclusions. Prolonged use of non-tunneled CVCs for chronic hemodialysis was associated with a low incidence of bacteremia. Gram-positive microorganisms prevailed among causative agents. A prior CVC infection almost trebled the risk for CVC-related bacteremia in our pediatric population receiving hemodialysis.

Introducción. La infección asociada a catéter venoso central (CVC) es la principal complicación que presentan los pacientes en hemodiálisis en los que se usa este tipo de acceso. Objetivo. Estimar la incidencia de bacteriemia asociada a CVC no tunelizado, analizar la frecuencia de agentes causales y explorar factores de riesgo asociados en niños en hemodiálisis. Población y métodos. Estudio retrospectivo realizado en niños en hemodiálisis por CVC no tunelizado entre el 1 junio de 2015 y el 30 de junio de 2019. Para evaluar factores de riesgo predictores de bacteriemia asociada a CVC, se realizó regresión logística. Los factores de riesgo independiente se expresaron con odds ratio con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza del 95 %. Se consideró estadísticamente significativo un valor de p <0,05. Resultados. En este estudio se incluyeron 121 CVC no tunelizados. La incidencia de bacteriemia fue de 3,15 por 1000 días de catéter. El microorganismo aislado con mayor frecuencia fue Staphylococcus epidermidis (16 casos, 51,5 %). La infección previa del catéter fue el único factor de riesgo independiente encontrado para el desarrollo de bacteriemia asociada a CVC no tunelizado (OR: 2,84; IC95%: 1,017,96; p =0,04). Conclusiones. El uso prolongado de los CVC no tunelizados para hemodiálisis crónica se asoció con una incidencia baja de bacteriemia. Los gérmenes grampositivos predominaron como agentes causales. La presencia de infección previa del CVC aumentó en casi 3 veces el riesgo de bacteriemia asociada a CVC en nuestra población pediátrica en hemodiálisis.

Analysis of factors associated with admission to the intensive care unit of children and adolescents with COVID-19: application of a multilevel model / Análise dos fatores associados ao internamento na unidade de terapia intensiva de crianças e adolescentes com COVID-19: aplicação de um modelo multinível

ABSTRACT Objective To identify factors associated with hospitalization in the intensive care unit in children and adolescents with COVID-19. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study using secondary data of hospitalized children and adolescents (zero to 18 years old) with COVID-19 reported in Paraíba from April 2020 to July 2021, totaling 486 records. Descriptive analysis, logistic regression and multilevel regression were performed, utilizing a significance level of 5%. Results According to logistic regression without hierarchical levels, there was an increased chance of admission to the intensive care unit for male patients (OR = 1.98; 95%CI 1.18 - 3.32), patients with respiratory distress (OR = 2.43; 95%CI 1.29 - 4.56), patients with dyspnea (OR = 3.57; 95%CI 1.77 - 7.18) and patients living in large cities (OR = 2.70; 95%CI 1.07 - 6.77). The likelihood of requiring intensive care was observed to decrease with increasing age (OR = 0.94; 95%CI = 0.90 - 0.97), the presence of cough (OR = 0.32; 95%CI 0.18 - 0.59) or fever (OR = 0.42; 95%CI 0.23 - 0.74) and increasing Gini index (OR = 0.003; 95%CI 0.000 - 0.243). According to the multilevel analysis, the odds of admission to the intensive care unit increased in male patients (OR = 1.70; 95%CI = 1.68-1.71) and with increasing population size of the municipality per 100,000 inhabitants (OR = 1.01; 95%CI 1.01-1.03); additionally, the odds of admission to the intensive care unit decreased for mixed-race versus non-brown-skinned patients (OR = 0.981; 95%CI 0.97 - 0.99) and increasing Gini index (OR = 0.02; 95%CI 0.02 - 0.02). Conclusion The effects of patient characteristics and social context on the need for intensive care in children and adolescents with SARS-CoV-2 infection were better estimated with the inclusion of a multilevel regression model.

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar fatores associados ao internamento na unidade de terapia intensiva de crianças e adolescentes com COVID-19. Método Estudo de coorte retrospectiva, com dados secundários, de crianças e adolescentes hospitalizados (zero a 18 anos), notificados com COVID-19 na Paraíba, de abril de 2020 a julho de 2021, totalizando 486 registros. Foram realizadas análise descritiva, regressão logística e regressão multinível, considerando o nível de significância de 5%. Resultados Na regressão logística sem níveis hierárquicos, ocorreu aumento da chance de internamento na unidade de terapia intensiva em pacientes do sexo masculino (RC = 1,98; IC95% 1,18 - 3,32), com desconforto respiratório (RC = 2,43; IC95% 1,29 - 4,56), dispneia (RC = 3,57; IC95% 1,77 - 7,18) e residentes em cidades com grande porte populacional (RC = 2,70; IC95% 1,07 - 6,77). Foi observada diminuição da chance de cuidados intensivos com aumento da idade em anos (RC = 0,94; IC95%=0,90 - 0,97), presença de tosse (RC = 0,32; IC95% 0,18 - 0,59), febre (RC = 0,42; IC95% 0,23 - 0,74) e aumento no Índice de Gini (RC = 0,003; IC95% 0,000 - 0,243). Na análise multinível, a chance de internamento na unidade de terapia intensiva aumentou no sexo masculino (RC = 1,70; IC95%=1,68-1,71) e por conta do aumento no porte populacional do município a cada 100 mil habitantes (RC = 1,01; IC95% 1,01 - 1,03); a chance de internamento na unidade de terapia intensiva diminuiu em pacientes pardos versus não pardos (RC = 0,981; IC95% 0,97 - 0,99) e por conta do aumento a cada pontuação do Índice de Gini (RC = 0,02; IC95% 0,02 - 0,02). Conclusão Os efeitos das condições próprias do paciente e do contexto social na necessidade de cuidados intensivos em crianças e adolescentes com infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2 são mais bem estimados com a inclusão de um modelo de regressão multinível nas análises.

Transforming a volcanic rock powder waste into an efficient adsorbent to remove dyes (acid green 16 and acid red 97) and metals (Ag+, Co2+, and Cu2+) from water.

This study searched for the best synthesis route for producing an adsorbent from the alkaline fusion of volcanic rock powder waste. The samples synthesized under different conditions of temperature and alkalizing ratio/precursor material, nine in total (NP.F, NP.F1, NP.F2, ...NP.F8 ), were used in the adsorption of acid green 16 (AG 16) and acid red 97 (AR 97) dyes and Ag+, Co2+, and Cu2+ ions. Subsequently, the 22 central composite rotational design (CCRD) was applied, and the effects of the alkalizing ratio (NaOH)/volcanic rock (VR) and temperature (T) on the synthesis process were analyzed in terms of their influence on the physical properties of the materials and in the process of adsorption of contaminants. From the experimental design, it can be seen that the independent variables alkalizing ratio/volcanic rock and temperature greatly influence the characteristic and synthesis of adsorbent materials by alkaline fusion, which in turn reflects on the results achieved in the adsorption of contaminants. Therefore, the temperature of 550 °C and NaOH/VR ratio equal to 1 was the most satisfactory synthesis route to obtain high values of adsorption capacity (q, mg g-1) and removal (R, %) for all studied contaminants, as well as the optimization of the physical characteristics of the material. For example, the adsorption capacity of dye AG 16 was 49.1 mg g-1, and for Ag+ was 66.2 mg g-1, while the removal percentages were 97.6% and 93.4%, respectively. This approach made it possible to transform volcanic rock powder wastes into an efficient adsorbent to treat contaminated waters with dyes and metals.

Ivermectin adsorption by commercial charcoal in batch and fixed-bed operations.

Emerging contaminants were used during the COVID-19 pandemic, including ivermectin. Studies that limit the optimal adsorption parameters of ivermectin are scarce in the literature. In this study, we analyzed the adsorption of ivermectin with a high surface area and porosity charcoal. Isotherms were better fitted to the Koble-Corrigan model. The maximum capacity was 203 µg g-1 at 328 K. Thermodynamics indicated a spontaneous and endothermic behavior. The equilibrium was quickly reached within the first few minutes regardless of the ivermectin concentration. The linear driving force (LDF) model fitted the kinetic data (qexp = 164.8 µg g-1; qpred = 148.1 µg g-1) at 100 µg L-1 of ivermectin. The model coefficient (KLDF) and diffusivity (Ds) increased with increasing drug concentration. Two sloped curves were obtained in the column experiments, with a breakthrough time of 415 min and 970 min. The capacity of the column (qeq) was 76 µg g-1. The length of the mass transfer zone was 9.04 and 14.13 cm. Therefore, it can be concluded that the adsorption of ivermectin is highly sensitive to changes in pH, being favored in conditions close to neutrality. Commercial activated charcoal was highly efficient in removing the studied compound showing high affinity with very fast kinetics and a good performance in continuous operation mode.

Observation of the two-photon transition enhanced first hyperpolarizability spectra in cinnamaldehyde derivatives: A femtosecond regime study.

The application of nonlinear optical effects in optoelectronic devices is still scarce because the irradiance threshold necessary to induce a specific effect is very high. In this context, knowing the frequency-resolved first order molecular hyperpolarizability (ß) is essential to identifying regions where this response is intense enough to allow for applications in commercial devices. Thus, herein, we have determined the ß spectral dependence of five new push-pull cinnamylidene acetophenone derivatives using femtosecond laser-induced Hyper-Rayleigh Scattering (HRS). A considerable increase in ß values was observed in molecules. We found remarkable ß values in regions near the two-photon resonance, which are mediated by electron withdrawing and donating groups. This effect was mapped using wavelength-tunable femtosecond Z-scan technique. Furthermore, it was modeled in light of the sum-over-states approach for the second- and third-order nonlinearities. Finally, our outcomes suggest a strategy to obtain large ß values mediated by the 2PA transition.

Registro argentino de COVID-19 en VIH (Estudio COVIDARE): características clínicas, epidemiológicas y factores asociados a hospitalización / Argentine Registry of COVID-19 in HIV (COVIDARE Study): clinical and epidemiological characteristics and factors associated with hospitalization

INTRODUCCIÓN: Existe controversia con respecto a los factores que determinan un mayor riesgo de gravedad y complicaciones por COVID-19 en personas que viven con VIH (PVVIH). Asimismo, hay datos limitados sobre el impacto de la vacunación contra SARS-CoV-2 en la hospitalización en esta población. OBJETIVOS: Describir las características clínicas y evolutivas de COVID-19 en PVVIH; Evaluar factores de riesgo para hospitalización; Evaluar el impacto de la vacunación en la hospitalización. Pacientes y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional, prospectivo, multicéntrico (septiembre de 2020 a junio de 2022). Se registraron variables clínicas, inmunovirológicas, tratamiento antirretroviral (TARV), vacunación contra SARS-CoV-2 y hospitalización en PVVIH con COVID-19. Se realizaron análisis uni y multivariados examinando factores asociados a hospitalización utilizando dos modelos: primer modelo (sin vacunación) y segundo modelo (vacunación, mínimo una dosis). RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 1.201 PVVIH. La mediana de edad fue 45 años. El 65,3% fueron hombres; el 38,7% presentó comorbilidades. Recibía TARV el 92,8% y presentó carga viral (CV) indetectable el 83,1%. La mediana de linfocitos T CD4+ fue de 600 céls/mm3. El 95,7% presentó síntomas. Las tasas de hospitalización, ingreso a UCI, requerimiento de oxígeno y muerte fueron 17,8%, 2,8%, 10,7% y 1,39%, respectivamente. De acuerdo con el análisis multivariado para el primer modelo, la edad > 60 años y las comorbilidades se asociaron a mayor riesgo de hospitalización, mientras que el sexo femenino y un recuento de linfocitos T CD4+ > 500 céls/mm3 tuvieron un efecto protector. En el segundo modelo sólo las comorbilidades se relacionaron con un mayor riesgo de hospitalización mientras que la vacunación y células CD4+ > 500 céls/mm3 la redujeron. CONCLUSIONES: En PVVIH las comorbilidades se asociaron con mayor tasa de hospitalización, mientras que tener linfocitos T CD4+ elevados y estar vacunado tuvieron un efecto protector. El TARV y la CV no tuvieron impacto en modelo alguno mientras que la edad y el sexo solo influyeron cuando no se consideró la vacunación.

BACKGROUND: There is controversy regarding the factors that determine a greater risk of severity and complications from COVID-19 in people living with HIV (PLHIV). Likewise, there are limited data on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on hospitalization in this population. AIMS: To describe clinical characteristics and outcome of COVID-19 in PLHIV; To assess risk factors for hospitalization; To evaluate the impact of vaccination on hospitalization. METHODS: Multicenter, prospective, observational study (September 2020 to June 2022). Clinical and immunovirological variables, antiretroviral treatment (ART), SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, and hospitalization in PLHIV with COVID-19 were recorded. Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed examining factors associated with hospitalization using two models: first model (without vaccination) and second model (vaccination, minimum one dose). RESULTS: 1,201 PLHIV were included. The median age was 45 years. 65.3% were men; 38.7% presented comorbidities. 92.8% received ART and 83.1% presented undetectable viral load (VL). The median CD4+ T-cell count was 600/mm3. 95.7% presented symptoms. The rates of hospitalization, ICU admission, oxygen requirement, and death were 17.8 %, 2.8%, 10.7% and 1.39%, respectively. According to the multivariate analysis for the first model, age > 60 years and comorbidities were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization, while female sex and CD4+ > 500/mm3 had a protective effect. In the second model, only the comorbidities were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization, while vaccination and CD4+ > 500/mm3 reduced it. CONCLUSIONS: in PLHIV, comorbidities were associated with a higher hospitalization rate, while having elevated CD4+ T-cell counts and being vaccinated had a protective effect. ART and VL had no impact in any model, while age and sex only had an influence when vaccination was not considered.

Brilliant blue FCF dye adsorption using magnetic activated carbon from Sapelli wood sawdust.

Sapelli wood sawdust-derived magnetic activated carbon (SWSMAC) was produced by single-step pyrolysis using KOH and NiCl2 as activating and magnetization agents. SWSMAC was characterized by several techniques (SEM/EDS, N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, FTIR, XRD, VSM, and pHPZC) and applied in the brilliant blue FCF dye adsorption from an aqueous medium. The obtained SWSMAC was a mesoporous material and showed good textural properties. Metallic nanostructured Ni particles were observed. Also, SWSMAC exhibited ferromagnetic properties. In the adsorption experiments, adequate conditions were an adsorbent dosage of 0.75 g L-1 and a solution pH of 4. The adsorption was fast, and the pseudo-second-order demonstrated greater suitability to the kinetic data. The Sips model fitted the equilibrium data well, and the maximum adsorption capacity predicted by this model was 105.88 mg g-1 (at 55 °C). The thermodynamic study revealed that the adsorption was spontaneous, favorable, and endothermic. Besides, the mechanistic elucidation suggested that electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, π-π interactions, and n-π interactions were involved in the brilliant blue FCF dye adsorption onto SWSMAC. In summary, an advanced adsorbent material was developed from waste by single-step pyrolysis, and this material effectively adsorbs brilliant blue FCF dye.

Preparation of alumina-supported Fe-Al-La composite for fluoride removal from an aqueous matrix.

Using groundwater for human consumption is an alternative for places with no nearby surface water resources. Fluoride is commonly found in groundwater, and the consumption of this water for a prolonged time in concentrations that exceed established limits by WHO and Brazilian legislation on water potability (1.5 mg L-1) can cause harmful problems to human health. For this reason, fluoride removal is an important step before water consumption. In this work, activated alumina was impregnated with Fe-Al-La composite and employed for the first time as an adsorbent for fluoride removal from an aqueous environment. XRD, SEM/EDS, FT-IR, and point of zero charge were used to characterize the prepared adsorbent. The adsorptive performance of adsorbent material was investigated by employing a 23-central composite design (CCD), and the obtained experimental conditions were pH = 6.5 and adsorbent dosage = 3.0 g L-1. A maximum adsorption capacity of 8.17 mg g-1 at 298 K and pH = 6.5 was achieved by Langmuir isotherm to describe the adsorption. The kinetic model that better described experimental data was Avrami, with the kav parameter increasing with the initial concentration from 0.076 to 0.231 (min-1)nav. The nature of adsorption was found to be homogeneous, and it occurs in a monolayer. The fluoride removal performance for the prepared adsorbent was higher than granular activated alumina, showing that supporting Fe-Al-La at the alumina surface increased its fluoride adsorption capacity from 16 to 42% at the same experimental conditions. Finally, the influence of co-existing ions Cl-, SO42-, and NO3- was evaluated in fluoride adsorption, and the material presented great selectivity to fluoride. Thus, Fe-Al-La/AA adsorbent is a promising material for fluoride removal from water.

Efeito da germinação e da desidratação no valor nutritivo, compostos bioativos e atividade antioxidante de farinhas de leguminosas / Germination and dehydration effects on nutritional value, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of legume flours / Efectos de la germinación y la deshidratación sobre el valor nutritivo, los compuestos bioactivos y la actividad antioxidante de harinas de leguminosas

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram avaliar o efeito da germinação no teor de macronutrientes e da desidratação em compostos bioativos, nutrientes e atividade antioxidante de farinhas das leguminosas Phaseolus lunatus L. e Cajanus cajan (L. Millsp.) germinadas. As condições de germinação foram controladas em laboratório e as amostras foram submetidas à desidratação térmica (55°C) e liofilização. Foram realizadas as análises de composição centesimal, fenólicos totais flavonoides, atividade antioxidante (DPPH, FRAP), perfil de ácidos graxos (CG-FID) e de vitâmeros de tocoferol (HPLC- DAD). A germinação das leguminosas promoveu aumento de proteínas, lipídios e carboidratos. O processamento térmico para desidratação contribuiu para perdas de proteínas, lipídios, cinzas, e maior atividade antioxidantes em ambas as espécies. O perfil de ácidos graxos e vitâmeros de tocoferol mostraram-se com variações que dependem do tipo de leguminosa e condições de processamento, podendo ser positivas ou negativas. Farinhas de leguminosas germinadas pode ser uma alternativa para a inserção na dieta ou em formulações alimentícias e as condições de processamento devem ser monitoradas com intuito de otimiza propriedades nutritivas e funcionais.

The objectives of this work were to evaluate the effect of germination on macronutrient content and dehydration on bioactive compounds, nutrients and antioxidant activity of flours from germinated Phaseolus lunatus L. and Cajanus cajan (L. Millsp.) legumes. The germination conditions were controlled in the laboratory and the samples were submitted to thermal dehydration (55°C) and lyophilization. Analyses were carried out for centesimal composition, total phenolic flavonoids, antioxidant activity (DPPH, FRAP), fatty acid profile (GC-FID) and tocopherol vitamers (HPLC-DAD). Germination of the legumes promoted an increase in proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. Thermal processing for dehydration contributed to losses of proteins, lipids, ash, and higher antioxidant activity in both species. The profile of fatty acids and tocopherol vitamers showed variations that depend on the type of legume and processing conditions, and can be positive or negative. Sprouted legume flours can be an alternative for insertion in the diet or in food formulations and the processing conditions must be monitored in order to optimize nutritional and functional properties.

Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron evaluar el efecto de la germinación sobre el contenido en macronutrientes y de la deshidratación sobre los compuestos bioactivos, los nutrientes y la actividad antioxidante de harinas de leguminosas germinadas de Phaseolus lunatus L. y Cajanus cajan (L. Millsp.). Las condiciones de germinación se controlaron en el laboratorio y las muestras se sometieron a deshidratación térmica (55°C) y liofilización. Se realizaron análisis de composición centesimal, flavonoides fenólicos totales, actividad antioxidante (DPPH, FRAP), perfil de ácidos grasos (GC-FID) y vitaminas tocoferol (HPLC-DAD). La germinación de las leguminosas promovió un aumento de proteínas, lípidos y carbohidratos. El procesado térmico para la deshidratación contribuyó a pérdidas de proteínas, lípidos, cenizas y a una mayor actividad antioxidante en ambas especies. El perfil de ácidos grasos y vitaminas tocoferol mostró variaciones que dependen del tipo de legumbre y de las condiciones de procesado, pudiendo ser positivas o negativas. Las harinas de leguminosas germinadas pueden ser una alternativa para su inserción en la dieta o en formulaciones alimentarias y las condiciones de procesado deben ser monitorizadas para optimizar las propiedades nutricionales y funcionales.

Antimicrobial Bilayer Film Based on Chitosan/Electrospun Zein Fiber Loaded with Jaboticaba Peel Extract for Food Packaging Applications.

This work focused on developing an active bilayer film based on natural extract. Thus, the jaboticaba peel extract (JPE) was produced and characterized and showed promising application as a natural additive in biopolymeric materials. The zein fiber and bilayer films were produced using a chitosan film (casting) and zein fiber (electrospinning), with and without JPE. All samples were evaluated according to thickness, solubility in water, water vapor permeability, and main diameter, and for these, zein fiber, chitosan/zein fiber, and chitosan/zein fiber + 3% JPE showed values of 0.19, 0.51, and 0.50 mm, 36.50, 12.96, and 27.38%, 4.48 × 10-9, 1.6 × 10-10, and 1.58 × 10-10 (g m-1 Pa-1 s-1), and 6.094, 4.685, and 3.620 µm, respectively. These results showed that the addition of a second layer improved the barrier properties of the material when compared to the monolayer zein fiber. The thermal stability analysis proved that the addition of JPE also improved this parameter and the interactions between the components of the zein fiber and bilayer films; additionally, the effective presence of JPE was shown through FTIR spectra. In the end, the active potential of the material was confirmed by antimicrobial analysis since the bilayer film with JPE showed inhibition halos against E. coli and S. aureus.

Improved Adsorption of the Toxic Herbicide Diuron Using Activated Carbon Obtained from Residual Cassava Biomass (Manihot esculenta).

The production and consumption of cassava (Manihot esculenta) occur in several places worldwide, producing large volumes of waste, mostly in the form of bark. This study sought to bring a new purpose to this biomass through producing activated carbon to use as an adsorbent to remove the herbicide Diuron from water. It was observed that the carbon contains the functional groups of methyl, carbonyl, and hydroxyl in a strongly amorphous structure. The activated carbon had a surface area of 613.7 m2 g-1, a pore volume of 0.337 cm3 g-1, and a pore diameter of 1.18 nm. The Freundlich model was found to best describe the experimental data. It was observed that an increase in temperature favored adsorption, reaching a maximum experimental capacity of 222 mg g-1 at 328 K. The thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption was spontaneous, favorable, and endothermic. The enthalpy of adsorption magnitude was consistent with physical adsorption. Equilibrium was attained within 120 min. The linear driving force (LDF) model provided a strong statistical match to the kinetic curves. Diffusivity (Ds) and the model coefficient (KLDF) both increased with a rise in herbicide concentration. The adsorbent removed up to 68% of pollutants in a simulated effluent containing different herbicides. Activated carbon with zinc chloride (ZnCl2), produced from leftover cassava husks, was shown to be a viable alternative as an adsorbent for the treatment of effluents containing not only the herbicide Diuron but also a mixture of other herbicides.

Biosorption of Neodymium (Nd) from Aqueous Solutions Using Spirulina platensis sp. Strains.

Rare earth elements such as neodymium (Nd) are important elements used mainly in developing new technologies. Although they are found in low concentrations in nature, they can be obtained by extracting solid samples such as phosphogypsum. Among the techniques, adsorption has been used successfully with several adsorbent materials. In this work, two strains of Spirulina platensis (LEB-18 and LEB-52) were employed as biosorbents for efficiently removing the Nd element from the aqueous media. Biosorption tests were carried out in a batch system, and the results of the biosorption kinetics showed that for both materials, the biosorption of Nd was better described by the Avrami model. Moreover, it could be considered that 80 min would be necessary to attain the equilibrium of Nd(III) using both biosorbents. The result of the biosorption isotherms showed that for both strains, the best-fitted model was the Liu model, having a maximum biosorption capacity of 72.5 mg g−1 for LEB-18 and 48.2 mg g−1 for LEB-52 at a temperature of 298 K. Thermodynamics of adsorption showed that for both LEB-18 and LEB-52 the process was favorable (∆G° < 0) and exothermic (∆H° −23.2 for LEB-18 and ∆H° −19.9 for LEB-52). Finally, both strains were suitable to uptake Nd, and the better result of LEB-18 could be attributed to the high amount of P and S groups in this biomass. Based on the results, a mechanism of electrostatic attraction of Nd3+ and phosphate and sulfate groups of both strains of Spirulina platensis was proposed.

Chemical Variability of Hexane Extracts from Five Subspecies of Calendula suffruticosa from Spain.

The chemical profile of the hexane extracts of the subspecies carbonellii, greuteri, marginata, trialata, and vejerensis of Calendula suffruticosa growing in Spain, herein described for the first time, were studied to access their value as a chemo taxonomical tool and search for potentially useful compounds. The subsp. greuteri and carbonellii showed higher extract yields. Terpenoids were the most abundant chemical class in subsp. carbonellii, greuteri, trialata, and vejerensis, while alkanes were the most abundant in subsp. marginata. Differences in chemical constituents were identified among the subspecies of C. suffruticosa analysed, which the PCA can prove. The subsp. trialata and greuteri showed more significant phytochemical similarity, which might indicate genetic proximity between these two subspecies. C. suffruticosa subsp. marginata presented the fewest number of compounds and in the smallest quantities, and C. suffruticosa subsp. vejerensis presented the largest number, however, both showed no alcohols. Furthermore, some of the compounds found in significant amounts are known for their pharmacological and nutraceutical properties, denoting potential use.

[Impact of COVID-19 related lockdown on the metabolic profile of people with HIV infection in Argentina]. / Impacto de la cuarentena por COVID-19 en el perfil metabólico de personas con infección por VIH en Argentina.

BACKGROUND: The spread of SARS-CoV-2 required widespread lockdown to mitigate the pandemic. Argentine authorities imposed preventive social isolation for 234 days (March 20th to November 9th 2020). This measure led to major changes in the population's lifestyle. AIM: To examine the influence of COVID-19 lockdown measures on the metabolic profile of HIV-infected patients in Argentina. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of 10,239 HIV-infected patients under follow up in a private clinic for HIV care. Adult patients with ongoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) and a baseline determination of blood glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides done before lockdown (BL: second semester of 2019) and a second determination during lockdown (DL: May 2020) were included. Patients with recent changes in ART that may have metabolic impact, those starting lipid/glucose lowering agents and pregnant women were excluded. Categorical variables were compared using the χ2 test or Fisher's exact test, and continuous variables using the t-test or the Mann-Whitney test. A two-tailed value of p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: 540 individuals were included, median of age was 47 years and 74.6% were male. Median body mass index was 26.1 and 94.6% had low cardiovascular risk. There was a significant increase in the percentage of patients that met criteria for hyperglycemia (BL 4.8% and DL 8.5%, p < 0.001). We also observed significant (p < 0.001) increase in median (IQR) BL vs DL values in LDL-cholesterol [109 (90-128) vs 118 (97-139) mg/dL]; and triglycerides [120 (87-172) vs. 132 mg/dL (96-184)]. The proportion of patients with hyper-LDL cholesterolemia according to individual cardiovascular risk increased from 12.6 to 17.2% (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that quarantine, at least in its initial phases, may have a negative impact on the metabolic profile of this population.

Tranca ou tratamento: a aplicação da medida de segurança no contexto da saúde mental / Locked up or treatment: security measures enforcement in the context of mental health

O artigo debate o gerenciamento das medidas de segurança, analisando as legislações brasileiras e as políticas públicas de saúde mental correspondentes à temática, implantadas a partir de tentativas de superação de paradigmas positivistas prevalentes no judiciário brasileiro. Trata-se de garantir o tratamento ambulatorial, independente da motivação da custódia no contexto de interface entre saúde mental e segurança pública para prevalecer a Lei 10.216/2001, em detrimento do Código Penal, retrógrado, pautado na custódia e na punição, e não no tratamento nos dispositivos de saúde mental no território. O panorama dos Estabelecimentos de Custódia e Tratamento Psiquiátrico (ECTPs) e as inovações práticas produzidas a partir da parceria entre os campos da saúde mental e do direito no país são analisadas nas suas contribuições à produção de novas políticas públicas. Conclui-se que, apesar dos investimentos pontuais em programas especializados, também apresentados neste artigo, ainda é incerto o término da internação compulsória em ECTP, em prol do encaminhamento urgente e direto dos sujeitos portadores de transtorno mental em conflito com a lei aos dispositivos da rede de atenção psicossocial no país.

This article discusses the custodial sentence management by analyzing Brazilian law and the mental health public policies concerning this topic that were adopted from initiatives that have tried do overcome prevalent positivistic paradigms in the Brazilian judiciary. This paper advocates that the outpatient treatment should be maintained considering the interface between Mental Health and Public Security, regardless of the reasons for the custody, as such, it would meet Brazilian law 10.216/2001 guidance towards treatment in psicossocial devices over custody and punishment-oriented Brazilian penal code. The custodial and treatment institutions (CTIs) and the practical innovations created as a result of a partnership between both Brazilian Mental Health and Law fields of knowledge are investigated by observing their contributions for new public policies production. Despite scarce investments in specialized programs, it concludes that the end of the CTIs compulsory hospitalization is yet uncertain. It advocates urgent addressing of mental health patients in conflict with the law to Brazilian alternative psychosocial devices.

Hazardous elements present in coal nanoparticles in a Caribbean port region in Colombia.

Scientific works examining coal-derived nanoparticles (NPs) containing potentially toxic elements (PTEs) confined in marine suspended sediments (MSSs) in port regions worldwide is an understudied topic, despite the fact that coal NPs have tremendous negative impacts on marine estuaries. The general objective of this study is to analyze the NP levels of coal, including PTEs, contained within MSSs in the general vicinity of the largest Caribbean port in Colombia. The morphology, size, chemical composition, and agglomeration states of NPs within MSSs of the sampled beaches were calculated through modern electron microscopy. The methodology used to detect chemical elements, unfortunately with EDS, it is not possible to precisely specify the chemical elements of low atomic weight (e.g. H, O, F, etc.) Therefore, with the EDS available today, it is only possible to have an idea of the chemical composition of each detected particle. Thus, it was possible to obtain the average frequency of the chemical elements identified in the 23 analyzed sampling points. Through the results, more than one thousand particles were detected in the most abundant phases, thus, the most frequent particles in the results of this manuscript were described. Sample point 8, located closest to the coal export port, had a higher concentration of nano-toxic elements (Al, Fe, Si, K, Mg, K) most concerning for human health in addition to being harmful to marine life. This study suggests that public policies dealing with MSS pollution need to be discussed by public managers to avoid further and sustained environmental degradation. The need to create projects will subsidize legacy liabilities generated by coal in seaports in other regions of the world.