Boosting life sciences research in Brazil: building a case for a local Drosophila stock center.

Drosophila melanogaster is undoubtedly one of the most useful model organisms in biology. Initially used in solidifying the principles of heredity, and establishing the basic concepts of population genetics and of the synthetic theory of evolution, it can currently offer scientists much more: the possibility of investigating a plethora of cellular and biological mechanisms, from development and function of the immune system to animal neurogenesis, tumorigenesis and beyond. Extensive resources are available for the community of Drosophila researchers worldwide, including an ever-growing number of mutant, transgenic and genomically-edited lines currently carried by stock centers in North America, Europe and Asia. Here, we provide evidence for the importance of stock centers in sustaining the substantial increase in the output of Drosophila research worldwide in recent decades. We also discuss the challenges that Brazilian Drosophila scientists face to keep their research projects internationally competitive, and argue that difficulties in importing fly lines from international stock centers have significantly stalled the progression of all Drosophila research areas in the country. Establishing a local stock center might be the first step towards building a strong local Drosophila community that will likely contribute to all areas of life sciences research.

Methylmercury neurotoxicity: Beyond the neurocentric view.

Mercury is a highly toxic metal widely used in human activities worldwide, therefore considered a global public health problem. Many cases of mercury intoxication have occurred in history and represent a huge challenge nowadays. Of particular importance is its methylated form, methylmercury (MeHg). This mercurial species induces damage to several organs in the human body, especially to the central nervous system. Neurological impairments such as executive, memory, motor and visual deficits are associated with MeHg neurotoxicity. Molecular mechanisms involved in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity include excitotoxicity due to glutamatergic imbalance, disturbance in calcium homeostasis and oxidative balance, failure in synaptic support, and inflammatory response. Although neurons are largely affected by MeHg intoxication, they only represent half of the brain cells. Glial cells represent roughly 50 % of the brain cells and are key elements in the functioning of the central nervous system. Particularly, astrocytes and microglia are deeply involved in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity, resulting in distinct neurological outcomes depending on the context. In this review, we discuss the main findings on astroglial and microglial involvement as mediators of neuroprotective and neurotoxic responses to MeHg intoxication. The literature shows that these responses depend on chemical and morphophysiological features, thus, we present some insights for future investigations, considering the particularities of the context, including time and dose of exposure, brain region, and species of study.

Extending beyond individual caves: a graph theory approach broadening conservation priorities in Amazon iron ore caves.

The Amazon is renowned worldwide for its biological significance, but it also harbors substantial mineral reserves. Among these, the ferruginous geosystems of the region are critical for iron ore extraction, accounting for 10% of Brazil's export revenue. Additionally, this region holds a significant speleological heritage with more than 1,000 caves. However, cave conservation efforts are often in conflict with land use, necessitating mediation through environmental regulations. While conservation decisions typically consider only the caves' characteristics, such an approach fails to account for the interactions among cave communities and their surrounding landscape. This poses a challenge to reserve design for cave conservation purposes. To address this issue, we assessed the predictors that influence the similarity among cave communities, suggesting the use of this parameter as a proxy for subterranean connectivity. Applying graph theory, we proposed a tool to aid in the selection of priority caves for conservation purposes. Our study involved the sampling of invertebrates in 69 iron ore caves and analyzing 28 environmental variables related to these subterranean habitats and adjacent landscape. Our analysis revealed that landscape and habitat characteristics are more important than geographical distance in determining patterns of similarity among caves. Our graph approach highlighted densely interconnected clusters based on similarity. However, specific caves stood out for harboring exclusive fauna and/or exhibiting habitat specificity, making them unique in the study area. Thus, we recommend prioritizing cave clusters for conservation, assembling both singular caves and others that influence them. It is crucial to note that protocols for the protection of subterranean biodiversity must consider measures that encompass both the caves and the surrounding landscape. Our methodology provides insights into the connectivity among caves, identifies existing groups, highlights singular (or unique) cavities that require preservation, and recognizes those influencing these unique habitats. This methodological advancement is crucial for the development of better conservation policies for the speleological heritage in areas under constant economic pressure.

An Approach to Establishing Diagnostic Reference Levels in Interventional Pediatric Cardiology from Different Regions of Brazil.

Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) are a pivotal strategy to be implemented since pediatric interventional cardiology procedures are increasing. This work aimed to propose an initial set of Brazilian DRLs for pediatric interventional diagnostic and therapeutic (D&T) procedures. A retrospective study was carried out in four Brazilian states, distributed across the three regions of the country. Data were collected from pediatric patients undergoing cardiac interventional procedures (CIPs), including their age and anthropometric characteristics, and at least four parameters (number of images, exposure time, air kerma-area product-PKA, and cumulative air kerma). Data from 279 patients undergoing CIPs were gathered (147 diagnostic and 132 therapeutic procedures). There were no significant differences in exposure time and the number of images between the D&T procedures. A wide range of PKA was observed when the therapeutic procedures were compared to diagnostics for all age groups. There were significant differences between the D&T procedures, whether grouping data by patient weight or age. In terms of cumulative air kerma, it was noted that no value exceeded the level to trigger a monitoring process for patients. This study shows that it is possible to adopt them as the first proposal to establish national DRLs considering pediatric patient groups.

Research activity among diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers: An international survey.

INTRODUCTION: Various national solutions have been considered and implemented to address the factors which limit radiographer engagement in conducting research. Nevertheless, national literature continues to suggest that radiographer engagement in research remains low. The aim of this study was to extend the existing evidence base by conducting an international survey to assess diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers involvement with, barriers to and support mechanisms for research. METHODS: Data collection was obtained via an online questionnaire which was distributed by the International Society of Radiographers and Radiologic Technologists (ISRRT). The study population included an international sample of qualified diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers across clinical and academic contexts in a variety of different roles such as clinical practice, management, education and research. RESULTS: In total, 420 diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers completed the survey. Multiple reasons were identified that were considered to inhibit respondents from conducting research. 69.3% indicated a combination of reasons for lack of engagement with research, rather than one single issue. Examples of reasons include: lack of time, insufficient research funding, limited research expertise, and lack of a suitable mentorship scheme. CONCLUSION: A minor segment of survey respondents indicated involvement in research activity. Lack of dedicated time to research, mentors, and funding were among the main barriers to conduct research. Further research is required to explore what solutions are available to overcoming the barriers.

Performance, body development and ingestive behavior of Nelore and crossbred heifers finished in a grazing system.

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate growth, body development and ingestive behavior of Nelore and crossbred heifers. Twenty-two contemporary heifers (eight Nelore, seven Nelore × Angus (½ Angus) and seven Nelore × Pantaneiro (½ Pantaneiro) crosses) were evaluated. The variables evaluated were weight, subcutaneous fat thickness [assessed by ultrasound in the longissimus dorsi (SFT) and biceps femoris (SFTP8)] morphometric measures and ingestive behavior (determined between 7 am and 5 pm). The daily gain differed between the breeds (P < 0.05), being greater for the ½ Pantaneiro than Nelore and equal to ½ Angus at the end of the study. The ½ Angus heifers differed (P < 0.01) from the other breeds for SFT (4.36 mm), with no difference between Nelore (2.77 mm) and ½ Pantaneiro (3.38 mm). The SFTP8 was greater (P < 0.01) (5.36 mm) in ½ Angus heifers than t others crossbreed, and greater in ½ Pantaneiro than in Nelore (4.28 vs 3.29 mm). The heart girth and rump width between the ilia were larger (P < 0.01) for the ½ Angus than ½ Pantaneiro and Nelore (169 cm; 41.6 cm, respectively). Substernal height was greatest (P < 0.01) for the Nelore (69.1 cm), reflecting the greater anterior and posterior height. The ½ Angus spent the longest time (P < 0.05) walking and less time grazing. Idleness also differed (P < 0.05) throughout the day. Crossbred heifers exhibited better performance and development than Nelore. The grazing pattern of ½ Pantaneiro heifers was identical to Nelore, but walked less, gained more weight, and exhibited better carcass finishing.

Esclerose lateral amiotrófica: implicações para familiares cuidadores / Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: implications for family caregivers / Esclerosis lateral amiotrófica: implicaciones para los cuidadores familiares

Objetivo: descrever as dificuldades de adaptação dos familiares cuidadores de pacientes portadores de Esclerose Lateral Amiotrófica (ELA), cadastrados na central de Medicamentos de Alto Custo da Regional de Saúde Pirineus, na cidade de Anápolis -GO. Método: Trata-se de um estudo de abordagem qualitativa com o método descritivo. Os participantes foram previamente selecionados mediante adequação aos critérios de inclusão e concordância em fazer parte da pesquisa. A coleta de dados deu-se em local escolhido pelos mesmos, por meio de entrevista gravada em smartphone. A análise dos dados deu-se concomitante e após o termino da coleta. Resultados:Para a obtenção dos resultados e discussão foram entrevistados 4 (quatro) estão apresentados em 6 categorias, sendo elas: dificuldades para o cuidado; sobrecarga do cuidador; aceitação familiar; arendizado e dúvidas dos cuidadores; sobre atendimento; adaptação para os cuidados no núcleo familiar. Diante disto evidenciou-se as implicações ligadas a equipe de saúde, que são: a necessidade da equipe de saúde se manter informada não só sobre as mudanças relacionadas a doença, como também as dificuldades enfrentadas pela família, para que seja auxiliada em relação às suas dúvidas e durante a adaptação e a progressão da doença. Conclusão:estudo procura trazer um novo olhar que vai além do paciente, evidenciando as necessidades da família, tratando não somente o paciente, mas também cada família dentro de suas particularidades

Objective:describe the adaptation difficulties of family caregivers of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), registered at the High-Cost Medication center of the Pirineus Regional Health in the city of Anápolis -GO. Method:This is a qualitative approach study using a descriptive method. Participants were previously selected based on inclusion criteria and agreement to participate in the research. Data collection took place at a location chosen by them, through interviews recorded on a smartphone. Dataanalysis was conducted concurrently with and after data collection. Results:For the results and discussion, 4 (four) were interviewed and are presented in 6 categories: difficulties in care; caregiver burden; family acceptance; learning and doubts of caregivers; about care; adaptation to care in the family nucleus. This evidenced the implications linked to the health team, which are: the need for the health team to stay informed not only about changes related to the disease but also about the difficultiesfaced by the family, so that they can be assisted regarding their doubts and during the adaptation and progression of the disease. Conclusion:the study seeks to bring a new perspective that goes beyond the patient, highlighting the needs of the family, treating not only the patient but also each family within its particularities.

Objetivo: Describir las dificultades de adaptación de los cuidadores familiares de pacientes con Esclerosis Lateral Amiotrófica (ELA), registrados en el Centro de Medicamentos de Alto Costo de la Región Sanitaria Pirineus, en la ciudad de Anápolis -GO. Método:Estudio cualitativo con método descriptivo. Los participantes fueron previamente seleccionados de acuerdo con el cumplimiento de los criterios de inclusión y el acuerdo para participar en la investigación. La recolección de datos se llevó a cabo en un lugar elegido por ellos, a través de entrevistas grabadas en un teléfono inteligente. El análisis de los datos se realizó de forma concomitante y una vez finalizada la recolección de datos. Resultados:Para obtener los resultados y la discusión, 4 (cuatro) encuestados son presentados en 6 categorías, a saber: dificultades para el cuidado; carga del cuidador; aceptación familiar; y dudas de los cuidadores; sobre el servicio al cliente; Adaptación al cuidado en el núcleo familiar. Frente a esto, se evidenciaron las implicaciones relacionadas con el equipo de salud, las cuales son: la necesidad de que el equipo de salud esté informado no solo sobre los cambios relacionados a la enfermedad, sino también sobre las dificultades enfrentadas por la familia, para que puedan ser ayudados en relación a sus dudas y durante la adaptación y progresión de la enfermedad. Conclusión:este estudio busca aportar una nueva mirada que vaya más allá del paciente, resaltando las necesidades de la familia, tratando no solo al paciente, sinotambién a cada familia dentro de sus particularidades.

Revisiting Genetic Influence on Mercury Exposure and Intoxication in Humans: A Scoping Review.

Human intoxication to mercury is a worldwide health problem. In addition to the type and length of exposure, the genetic background plays an important role in mercury poisoning. However, reviews on the genetic influence in mercury toxicity are scarce and not systematic. Therefore, this review aimed to systematically overview the most recent evidence on the genetic influence (using single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) on human mercury poisoning. Three different databases (PubMed/Medline, Web of Science and Scopus) were searched, and 380 studies were found that were published from 2015 to 2022. After applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, 29 studies were selected and data on characteristics (year, country, profile of participants) and results (mercury biomarkers and quantitation, SNPs, main findings) were extracted and analyzed. The largest number of studies was performed in Brazil, mainly involving traditional populations of the Tapajós River basin. Most studies evaluated the influence of the SNPs related to genes of the glutathione system (GST, GPx, etc.), the ATP-binding cassette transporters and the metallothionein proteins. The recent findings regarding other SNPs, such as those of apolipoprotein E and brain-derived neurotrophic factor genes, are also highlighted. The importance of the exposure level is discussed considering the possible biphasic behavior of the genetic modulation phenomena that could explain some SNP associations. Overall, recommendations are provided for future studies based on the analysis obtained in this scoping review.

The Contributions of Nina Fedorovna Talyzina to Research Developed in Brazilian Postgraduate Programs.

Background: Nina Fedorovna Talyzina was a Russian psychologist, whose theories have been applied in educational research in many countries around the world, including Brazil. Her name is mainly connected to the Activity Theory of Learning (ATL), which has been dubbed the Galperin-Talyzina system of developmental didactics. Objective: Investigate how N.F. Talyzina's ideas are applied in dissertations and theses developed in postgraduate programs in Brazil. Design: Our research was a bibliographic review which used the state of the question method to examine how Talyzina's ideas are applied in Brazilian academic publications. Data were gathered from three responsible databases - the Brazilian Digital Library, the CAPES Catalogue, and the Institutional Repositories (1987-2022). The method of content analysis was used for data analysis, according to pre-determined categories. Results: We found a prevalence of research based on the methodology of formative experiments carried out at different educational levels. Skills, scientific concept- formation, and problem-solving were the objects of investigation in most of the studies. The ideas proposed by L.S. Vygotsky, A.N. Leontiev, P.Ya. Galperin, and V.V. Davidov were expressed through references to Talyzina's work as the theoretical basis of many studies, thus evidencing a crucial dialogue with the Cultural-Historical School (CHS). Conclusion: Our study points out the growing interest in Talyzina's ideas, specifically her Activity Theory of Learning, which can be attributed to comprehensive dialogues with the ideas of L.S. Vygotsky and A.N. Leontiev which predominate in Brazilian research.

The complete mitochondrial genome and description of a new cryptic Brazilian species of Metopiellus Raffray (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae).

Metopiellus Raffray, 1908 is a genus of South American rove beetles typically found in tropical humid forests. Here we describe a new cryptic species from Eastern Amazon, in northern Brazil, Metopiellus crypticus Asenjo sp. nov., and its major morphologic diagnostic features, which were photographed and illustrated. In addition, we bring the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of M. crypticus sp. nov., and its position within the phylogenetic context of the family, including previously available mitogenomes of Staphylinidae species.

Exercise Reshapes the Brain: Molecular, Cellular, and Structural Changes Associated with Cognitive Improvements.

Physical exercise is well known as a non-pharmacological and holistic therapy believed to prevent and mitigate numerous neurological conditions and alleviate ageing-related cognitive decline. To do so, exercise affects the central nervous system (CNS) at different levels. It changes brain physiology and structure, promoting cognitive improvements, which ultimately improves quality of life. Most of these effects are mediated by neurotrophins release, enhanced adult hippocampal neurogenesis, attenuation of neuroinflammation, modulation of cerebral blood flow, and structural reorganisation, besides to promote social interaction with beneficial cognitive outcomes. In this review, we discuss, based on experimental and human research, how exercise impacts the brain structure and function and how these changes contribute to cognitive improvements. Understanding the mechanisms by which exercise affects the brain is essential to understand the brain plasticity following exercise, guiding therapeutic approaches to improve the quality of life, especially in obesity, ageing, neurodegenerative disorders, and following traumatic brain injury.

What We Know about Euterpe Genus and Neuroprotection: A Scoping Review.

The Euterpe genus (mainly Euterpe oleracea Martius, Euterpe precatoria Martius, and Euterpe edulis Martius) has recently gained commercial and scientific notoriety due to the high nutritional value of its fruits, which are rich in polyphenols (phenolic acids and anthocyanins) and have potent antioxidant activity. These characteristics have contributed to the increased number of neuropharmacological evaluations of the three species over the last 10 years, especially açaí of the species Euterpe oleracea Martius. The fruits of the three species exert neuroprotective effects through the modulation of inflammatory and oxidative pathways and other mechanisms, including the inhibition of the mTOR pathway and protection of the blood-brain barrier, all of them intimately involved in several neuropathologies. Thus, a better understanding of the neuropharmacological properties of these three species may open new paths for the development of therapeutic tools aimed at preventing and treating a variety of neurological conditions.

O diálogo entre a escola e a clínica fonoaudiológica no caso de uma criança com Transtorno do Espectro Autístico (TEA) / The dialogue between the school and the speech therapy clinic in the case of a child with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / El diálogo entre la escuela y la clínica de logopedia en el caso de un niño con Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA)

A criança com diagnóstico do TEA, de modo geral, além de estar no ensino regular é acolhida em centros e clínicas de serviços especializados. Esses espaços são importantes para o desenvolvimento da criança e uma parceria mais próxima com a escola potencializa tanto as práticas que se dão na escola quanto na clínica. Considerando a importância do diálogo entre a clínica fonoaudiológica e a escola foram estabelecidos os seguintes objetivos: analisar se houve diálogo entre a clínica fonoaudiológica e a escola ao longo do processo terapêutico de uma criança diagnosticada com TEA e, ainda, as implicações deste diálogo para o processo de inclusão do sujeito no ensino regular. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo e de corte transversal. Foi realizado a partir do estudo da história clínica e escolar de uma criança do sexo feminino, com diagnóstico médico do Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA). A produção de dados foi realizada a partir da análise do prontuário e entrevistas semiestruturadas com os atores e atrizes sociais que conviveram e participaram diretamente no processo de escolarização da criança. A análise dos dados apontou que o contato entre a clínica e a escola foi possibilitado especialmente pela mãe da criança, especialmente no espaço da clínica. No entanto, um diálogo que de fato contribua para o processo de inclusão é uma prática ainda a ser mutuamente construída. (AU)

The child diagnosed with ASD, in general, in addition to being in regular education, is welcomed in specialized service centers and clinics. These spaces are important for the development of the child and a closer partnership with the school enhances both the practices that take place in the school and in the clinic. Considering the importance of dialogue between the speech therapy clinic and the school, the following objectives were established: to analyze whether there was dialogue between the speech therapy clinic and the school throughout the therapeutic process of a child diagnosed with ASD and, also, the implications of this dialogue for the process of inclusion of the subject in regular education. This is a qualitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study. It was carried out from the study of the clinical and school history of a female child, with a medical diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Data production was carried out from the analysis of medical records and semi-structured interviews with social actors and actresses who lived and participated directly in the child's schooling process. Data analysis showed that the contact between the clinic and the school was made possible especially by the child's mother, especially within the clinic. However, a dialogue that actually contributes to the inclusion process is a practice yet to be mutually constructed. (AU)

El niño diagnosticado con TEA, en general, además de estar en la educación regular, es acogido en centros y clínicas de atención especializada. Estos espacios son importantes para el desarrollo del niño y una colaboración más estrecha con la escuela mejora tanto las prácticas que tienen lugar en la escuela como en la clínica. Considerando la importancia del diálogo entre la clínica de logopedia y la escuela, se establecieron los siguientes objetivos: analizar si hubo diálogo entre la clínica de logopedia y la escuela a lo largo del proceso terapéutico de un niño diagnosticado con TEA y, también, las implicaciones de este diálogo para el proceso de inclusión del sujeto en la educación regular. Se trata de un estudio cualitativo, descriptivo y transversal. Se realizó a partir del estudio de la historia clínica y escolar de una niña, con diagnóstico médico de Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA). La producción de datos se realizó a partir del análisis de historias clínicas y entrevistas semiestructuradas a actores y actrices sociales que vivieron y participaron directamente del proceso de escolarización del niño. El análisis de los datos mostró que el contacto entre la clínica y la escuela fue posible especialmente por la madre del niño, especialmente dentro de la clínica. Sin embargo, un diálogo que realmente contribuya al proceso de inclusión es una práctica aún por construir entre todos.(AU)

Performance of Pantaneira breed cows in precision grazing system.

Use of a grazing system that takes into account the ingestive behavior of animals and the physiological characteristics of plants maximizes land use and promotes positive effects on the environment. In this sense, the objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of Pantaneira breed cows, kept in rotated grazing in Mombasa grass (Megathyrsus maximum), with different grazing times. Fifty animals were divided into two treatments: Continuous T1: 24 h and T2-Inverted: 12 h. The experiment lasted 98 days, being determined the production and nutritional quality of the forage, digestibility, intake, and performance of the animals. The design was randomized blocks at 5% probability, with the means compared by the F test. The design used was completely randomized at 5% probability by the T test. There was no significant difference for biomass production (P > 0.05). However, after grazing the Inverted group, the forage showed a lower percentage of leaves and an increase in neutral detergent fiber and acid contents and total carbohydrates, and a reduction in crude protein and ether extract values, as well as a higher digestibility (P < 0.05). The animals of the Continuous group intaked more forage (P < 0.05). The Inverted group had a higher average daily weight gain, in addition to a lower feed conversion (P < 0.001). The animals in the Control group spent more time eating (P < 0.0001) and sleeping (P < 0.0001), while the animals of the Inverted group spent more time in idleness (P < 0.0001) and interacting (P < 0.05). There was no difference in rumination time between treatments (P > 0.05). It was concluded that Inverted grazing improved the quality of Mombasa grass and the performance of cows.

Hair mercury is associated with dyslipidemia and cardiovascular risk: An anthropometric, biochemical and genetic cross-sectional study of Amazonian vulnerable populations.

This cross-sectional study evaluated the association between human exposure to mercury and cardiovascular risk using lipid profile (including apolipoproteins) and genetic analysis of Amazonian riverine population. Anthropometric data (gender, age, height, weight, blood pressure, and neck and waist circumferences) of the participants were recorded. Total mercury and methylmercury (MeHg) content were quantified in hair by ICP-MS and GC-pyro-AFS system. Polymorphisms rs662799, rs693, rs429358 and rs7412 (of genes of apolipoproteins A-V, B, and E at positions 112 and 158, respectively) were genotyped by real-time PCR. The population presented a dyslipidemia profile significantly correlated with high mercury levels. The apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A-I (ApoB/ApoA-I) index was also positively correlated with mercury, supporting a possible causal relationship. Allelic distributions were similar to those described in other populations, suggesting that genetic susceptibility may not have a significant role in the lipid alterations found in this work. This study demonstrated for the first time: i) the relationship between mercury exposure and cardiovascular risk-related apolipoproteins in humans, ii) the ApoB levels and the ApoB/ApoA-I index as the risk factors more strongly associated to the mercury-related dyslipidemia in humans, and iii) the prevalence of high/moderate risk of acute myocardial infarction in the vulnerable and chronically exposed-populations of the Amazon, in addition to the genotypic profile of the three most frequent polymorphisms in apolipoproteins of relevance for cardiovascular risk. This early detection of lipid alterations is essential to prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), especially in chronically exposed populations such as those found in the Amazon. Therefore, in addition to provide data for the Minamata Convention implementation, our work is in line with the efforts joined by all members of the World Health Organization committed to reducing premature deaths originating from non-communicable diseases by 25% in 2025, including CVD.

Mercury in the Amazon: The danger of a single story.

Amazon conservation is essential for the global future. Mercury is currently among the worst global pollutants and most (78.5%) of the South-American emissions are from the Amazon. Current Brazilian legislation on mining activities and trade of gold, and economic interests in soy, beef and large-scale projects such as dams, are key influences in mercury mobilization and emissions in the Amazon with the potential to affect the global environment. However, banning mercury in mining, while desirable, is not an efficient strategy if no other action is taken. The interconnected issues, such as exports (soy, beef and gold) and energy generation, must be addressed together to provide effective protection for human health and the environment. Realistically, to improve mercury emissions in the Amazon, we must stop looking solely at "the single story" (a limited view of reality) of supposedly "artisanal and small-scale gold mining" in the region and understand the complex economic, social, political, and international aspects of this problem. We propose some recommendations for international agencies, governments, communities and the private sector.

Global Human Threat: The Potential Synergism between Mercury Intoxication and COVID-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected billions of people worldwide, and exposure to toxic metals has emerged as an important risk factor for COVID-19 severity. Mercury is currently ranked as the third toxic substance of global concern for human health, and its emissions to the atmosphere have increased globally. Both COVID-19 and mercury exposure present a high prevalence in similar regions: East and Southeast Asia, South America and Sub-Saharan Africa. Since both factors represent a multiorgan threat, a possible synergism could be exacerbating health injuries. Here, we discuss key aspects in mercury intoxication and SARS-CoV-2 infection, describing the similarities shared in clinical manifestations (especially neurological and cardiovascular outcomes), molecular mechanisms (with a hypothesis in the renin-angiotensin system) and genetic susceptibility (mainly by apolipoprotein E, paraoxonase 1 and glutathione family genes). Literature gaps on epidemiological data are also highlighted, considering the coincident prevalence. Furthermore, based on the most recent evidence, we justify and propose a case study of the vulnerable populations of the Brazilian Amazon. An understanding of the possible adverse synergism between these two factors is crucial and urgent for developing future strategies for reducing disparities between developed and underdeveloped/developing countries and the proper management of their vulnerable populations, particularly considering the long-term sequelae of COVID-19.

Neurotoxicity and the Global Worst Pollutants: Astroglial Involvement in Arsenic, Lead, and Mercury Intoxication.

Environmental pollution is a global threat and represents a strong risk factor for human health. It is estimated that pollution causes about 9 million premature deaths every year. Pollutants that can cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the central nervous system are of special concern, because of their potential to cause neurological and development disorders. Arsenic, lead and mercury are usually ranked as the top three in priority lists of regulatory agencies. Against xenobiotics, astrocytes are recognised as the first line of defence in the CNS, being involved in virtually all brain functions, contributing to homeostasis maintenance. Here, we discuss the current knowledge on the astroglial involvement in the neurotoxicity induced by these pollutants. Beginning by the main toxicokinetic characteristics, this review also highlights the several astrocytic mechanisms affected by these pollutants, involving redox system, neurotransmitter and glucose metabolism, and cytokine production/release, among others. Understanding how these alterations lead to neurological disturbances (including impaired memory, deficits in executive functions, and motor and visual disfunctions), by revisiting the current knowledge is essential for future research and development of therapies and prevention strategies.