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Background: Sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium in urine are useful biomarkers and are commonly evaluated in patients with different conditions. Urinary tract infections are among the most common diseases worldwide. However, their treatment poses significant challenges, particularly in hospitals, primarily due to antibiotic resistance and recurrence. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between ion concentrations in urine and the presence of infection. Methods: A total of 175 random urine samples were collected from patients who had a request for urine culture at the Cova da Beira University Hospital Centre in Portugal. In vitro contamination was also conducted, in which ten negative urine cultures were contaminated with an Escherichia coli strain to evaluate the direct effect of its presence on the concentration of the ions. Results: In total, 61 samples were found to be positive, following a consensual quantitative definition. For Ca, there was a significant association between its concentrations in positive and negative cultures. In ten negative urine cultures experimentally contaminated with an Escherichia coli strain, bacterial growth did not seem to affect the concentration of ions. In vitro contaminated samples were also inoculated on MacConkey agar and incubated. The results showed that Gram-negative bacteria do not seem to proliferate in environments with low Ca concentrations. Conclusions: The presence of higher concentrations of Ca may facilitate the multiplication of Gram-negative bacteria, which can potentially result in depletion of Ca in vivo to putatively potentiate an inflammatory response. The concentration of Na, K, Cl, and Mg does not seem to have any relationship with UTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Cytolytic vaginosis or, classically, Doderlein's cytolysis is characterized by significant growth of species of the Lactobacillus genus, which leads to high amounts of lactic acid in the vaginal environment. Lactobacillus crispatus has been proposed as a key pathogen in this clinical condition. The symptomatology of cytolytic vaginosis is commonly confused with that of vulvovaginal candidosis, leading to inadequate and ineffective azole therapies. Nevertheless, historically, the use of sodium bicarbonate intimate baths was an effective way to reduce the symptoms of cytolytic vaginosis. Methods: In this study, four HPMC gel prototypes were developed, containing sodium bicarbonate concentrations ranging from 4% to 7% (w/w). These gels were evaluated for their physicochemical properties, antimicrobial activity, interference with lactobacilli adhering to cells, and cellular and tissue biocompatibility. Results: The gels presented pH values of around 9.0, and osmolality between 706 mOsm/kg (F4) and 1065 mOsm/kg (F7). The viscosity upon heating to physiologic temperature and dilution with simulated vaginal fluid was highly affected by the concentration of sodium bicarbonate. Gels with higher sodium bicarbonate concentrations (F6 and F7) were not shown to be stable in these conditions. All formulations exhibited effective antimicrobial activity against seven L. crispatus strains, with MIC values ranging from 6.25% to 25% (v/v) in terms of dilution. Additionally, the 4% (w/w) gel significantly interfered with the adhesion of L. crispatus to epithelial cells in competition and exclusion assays, reducing adhesion by more than 90% in relation to the control. Cytotoxicity tests on the Hec-1A, HeLa, and VK2/E6E7 cell lines indicated that the F4 and F5 gels demonstrated lower cytotoxicity levels compared to those with higher concentrations. Furthermore, ex vivo assays using porcine vaginal tissue confirmed that the 4% gel was non-toxic at a 25% (v/v) dilution. Conclusions: Based on these results, the 4% (w/w) sodium bicarbonate gel (F4) emerges as a promising therapeutic option for cytolytic vaginosis, offering effective bacterial interference, favourable physicochemical properties, and biocompatibility suitable for vaginal application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the associations and substitutions of dietary sugars [extrinsic (free) or intrinsic (non-free)] as well as dietary starch and fiber intakes for indices of body fat and cardiometabolic health. Methods: Dietary intake was assessed at multiple times using multi-day 24-hour recalls over 18-months for indices of body fat (body fat %, waist circumference, BMI, and weight change) (n = 1066) and at baseline and 12 months for cardiometabolic outcomes (LDL, HDL, HbA1c) (n = 736). Bayesian modeling was applied to analyze the probabilistic impact of dietary carbohydrate components using credible intervals for association and substitution analyses with repeated measures random effects modeling. Results: A higher starch intake significantly associated with higher body fat %, BMI and waist circumference (WC) (all CrI > 0). Conversely, intrinsic sugar and fiber intakes were significantly linked to lower body fat indices, while free sugar showed no association. A 20 g substitution of free sugars with intrinsic sugars significantly associated with lower body fat (CrI: -4.2; -1.0%), BMI (CrI: -1.8; -0.4) and WC (CrI: -4.2; -1.0 cm), while substituting intrinsic sugars with starch resulted in significantly higher body fat, BMI, WC and weight change. Replacing starch with fiber associated with higher HDL-C (CrI: -0.0; 0.3) and lower LDL-C (CrI: -0.6; 0.1). Replacing free sugars with starch associated with a higher HbA1c level (CrI: 0.0;0.2). Conclusion: These results underscore the importance of distinguishing between intrinsic versus extrinsic sugars and highlight the potential benefits of increasing intrinsic sugars and fiber while reducing starch for better body fat management and cardiometabolic health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Mother's bond to the infant in the postpartum period plays an important role in the subsequent mother–infant relationship and the infant's socio-emotional functioning. Several maternal characteristics, such as attachment style and psychological flexibility, may contribute to the quality of mother–infant bonding, though literature examining these variables is still scarce. The present study aimed to examine the impact of mother's attachment on mother–infant bonding in the first month postpartum and the mediating role of psychological flexibility on that association. Methods: Participants were 226 mothers of an infant up to 9 months old, who reported on their own attachment style (in terms of anxiety, comfort with proximity, trust in others), psychological flexibility (in terms of openness to experience, behavioural awareness, valued action) and mother–infant bonding. Results: Results showed that mother's attachment anxiety predicted a bond with the infant directly and indirectly via mother's psychological flexibility, specifically through behavioural awareness and valued action. Trust in others had an impact on mother–infant bonding through behavioural awareness, whereas comfort with proximity influenced mother–infant bond indirectly, via valued action. Finally, mothers' civil status, schooling and number of children were relevant to better understand the variance of our mediating and dependent variables. Discussion: Our findings highlight the importance of mother's attachment and psychological flexibility in promoting the quality of mother–infant bonding, which can inform future intervention programmes targeting modifiable factors, such as psychological flexibility, to promote early positive parent–infant relationships, particularly for single, first-time mothers, with higher levels of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent and lethal malignancy. This study examines differences in clinical and prognostic characteristics of CRC between patients under 50 years and those aged 50 and above, treated at a reference hospital in Southern Brazil. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted, analyzing data from the Cancer Hospital Registry in Porto Alegre, RS. Patients diagnosed with colon or rectal adenocarcinoma between January 2013 and December 2017 were included. Variables analyzed included family history, alcoholism, smoking status, clinical staging, tumor laterality, clinical presentation, CEA levels at diagnosis, adjuvant chemotherapy, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Results: The study cohort included 1,121 patients, with 85% aged 50 years or older, and 15% younger than 50 years. Significant differences were observed in smoking status and clinical presentation, with younger patients presenting with a higher prevalence of obstruction/subocclusion at diagnosis, which may reflect differences in clinical presentation due to delayed diagnosis. Conclusions: Age and lifestyle factors, particularly smoking, significantly influenced the clinical presentation and management of colorectal cancer. These findings underscore the importance of targeted prevention strategies and personalized treatment approaches for younger CRC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) proposed new criteria for the diagnosis of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED), however their association with patient's outcome is still unknown. This study compared the different classification systems of OED and evaluate their efficacy in predicting malignant transformation. Methods: A total of 195 slides of leukoplakia and erythroplakia were graded according to the WHO 2017, 2022, and the Binary System classification, and were correlated with the lesion's evolution. Results: A progressive increase in malignant transformation according to the severity of OED, with both the WHO and the Binary classification systems was detected. Among individual criteria, changes in cell morphology were independently associated with an increased risk of malignant transformation (HR = 2.8, 95%CI 1.1–7.5, p = 0.032). Considering the new set of OED criteria published in 2022, it was detected that a new cutoff of 4 architectural alterations and 6 cytological alterations predicts better malignant transformation. Conclusion: Malignant transformation was equally predicted by the OED classification systems. Due to the increased number of architectural and cytological features in WHO 2022, a new cutoff for classifying OED from low to high-grade considering 4 architectural and 6 cytological alterations is proposed. The findings allow a more accurate assessment of malignant transformation risk in OED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been growing effort in the scientific community to develop new antibiotics to address the major threat of bacterial resistance. One promising approach is the use of metal complexes that provide broader opportunities. Among these systems, polypyridine-ruthenium(II) complexes have received particular attention as drug candidates. Here, we prepared two new ruthenium(II) complexes with the formulation [Ru(DFO)(phtpy-R)Cl](PF6), where phtpy = 4′-phenyl-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine; R = –H(MPD1), –CH3(MPD2); and DFO = 4,5-diazafluoren-9-one, and investigated their chemical, biochemical and antibacterial activities. These compounds exhibit photoreactivity and produce reactive oxygen species (ROSs). Photogeneration of singlet oxygen (1O2) was measured in acetonitrile with significant quantum yields using blue light, Φ = 0.40 and 0.39 for MDP1 and MPD2, respectively. Further studies have shown that MPD1 and MPD2 can generate superoxide radicals. Antibacterial assays demonstrated a significant enhancement in MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) upon blue light irradiation (>32-fold), with MICs of 15.6 μg mL−1 (S. aureus, ATCC 700698) and 3.9 μg mL−1 (S. epidermidis, ATCC 35984) for both metal complexes. Interestingly, an MIC of 15.6 μg mL−1 for MPD1 and MPD2 was observed against S. epidermidis ATCC 12228 under red light irradiation. The latter results are encouraging, considering that red light penetrates deeper into the skin. In addition, no significant cytotoxicity was observed in some mammalian cells, even upon light irradiation, supporting their potential safety. Altogether, these data show evidence of the potential use of these compounds as antimicrobial photodynamic therapeutic agents, enriching our arsenal to combat this worldwide bacterial threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We sought to evaluate the effects of a 12-week pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program on lung function, mechanics, as well as pulmonary and systemic inflammation in a cohort of 33 individuals with moderate to severe post-COVID-19. Material and Methods: The pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program employed a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises. Thirty minutes of treadmill training at 75% of the maximum heart rate, combined with 30 min resistance training consisting of 75% of one maximum repetition, three times a week throughout 12 weeks. Results: PR improved the lung function, FVC (p < 0.02), FEV1 (p < 0.02), FEV1/FVC (p < 0.01), MEF25% (p < 0.006), MEF50% (p < 0.03), and MEF75% (p < 0.02). PR also positively influenced lung mechanics, reducing respiratory impedance (Z5Hz, p < 0.03), respiratory reactance (X5Hz, p < 0.01), resistance of the entire respiratory system (R5Hz, p < 0.03), central airway resistance (RCentral, p < 0.03), and peripheral airway resistance (RPeripheral, p < 0.02). Moreover, muscle strength gains were evident, with significant improvements observed in hand grip strength for both the right (p < 0.02) and left (p < 0.01) hands, as well as maximal inspiratory (p < 0.02) and expiratory (p < 0.03) pressures. Additionally, PR exhibited anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β (p < 0.0001) and IL-6 (p < 0.0001) and increasing the anti-inflammatory IL-1RA (p < 0.0004) and IL-10 (p < 0.003) and anti-viral IFN-γ (p < 0.0002) and IFN-β (p < 0.008) cytokines in breath condensate and serum samples. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings highlight the effectiveness of PR in ameliorating COVID-19 sequel across respiratory system, skeletal muscle, and immune responses. This highlights its promising potential as a therapeutic intervention for individuals recovering from COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geotextiles have been used as filters in geotechnical and geoenvironmental works for decades. Despite their broad utilization, these filters still find obstacles to the expansion of their application in larger projects and under complex soil and flow conditions. However, environmental issues are increasingly pressing for a greater use of geotextile filters in substitution to natural granular materials. Even though many important studies in the literature have improved the understanding of soil-fluid-geotextile filter interaction, some issues still require thorough investigation aiming at a better understanding of the behaviour of geotextile filters and the development of better design methodologies. This paper discusses how geotextiles filters are expected to behave in the field and some contradictions between idealized and real behaviour. Concerns regarding the use of geotextile filters under severe and critical conditions and how filter malfunction can be avoided or minimised are also addressed as well as approaches available to predict filter behaviour. A broad investigation on geotextile filter behaviour under severe and critical conditions was carried out and shows that these filters have been very successful, particularly bearing in mind the small number of failures in comparison with the huge number of applications of geotextile filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chemokines and their receptors are essential for leukocyte migration to several tissues, including human milk. Here, we evaluated the homing of T and B lymphocyte subsets to breast milk in response to ongoing respiratory infections in the nursing infant. Methods: Blood and mature milk were collected from healthy mothers of nurslings with respiratory infections (Group I) and from healthy mothers of healthy nurslings (Group C). Total lymphocyte, T and B cells, their subset numbers, and the expression of the homing receptors CCR5, CCR6, CCR10, and CXCR3 in these cells were evaluated in milk. Maternal serum and milk chemokine, cytokine, and IgA and IgG antibody levels were also quantified. Results: All milk lymphocyte numbers were greater in Group I than in Group C. All CD4 T-cell subsets expressing CCR5, CCR6, and CXCR3 were higher in Group I. Within the CD8 T-cell subsets, only CCR6 and CXCR3 were higher in Group I, while CCR5 expression was higher in Group I exclusively for activated CD8 T cells. Group I showed greater numbers of all CCR6+ B-cell subsets and CXCR3+ naive B cells and plasma cells than did Group C. Infection of the nurslings promoted increased CCL20, CXCL10, IL-6, IL-8, total IgA, and IgG levels in the milk. Conclusion: Respiratory infections in nursing infants stimulate an increase in cytokines and chemokines in breast milk, facilitating the recruitment and activation of lymphocytes. This process may promote immunological tolerance and help in the maturation of the infant's immune system, providing an additional strategy for passive maternal-infant protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Excessive or inadequate use of antimicrobial drugs may lead to the emergence of resistant strains. For this reason, it is important to monitor consumption indicators to assess drugs' utilization over time. This study aimed to analyze the consumption of medically prescribed azole antifungal drugs in mainland Portugal from 2014 to 2023, focusing on those directed to genital infections: fluconazole, isoconazole, itraconazole, and sertaconazole. Methods: For each drug, the evaluated parameters were the total number of packages, number of packages per 1000 inhabitants, defined daily dose (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants per day, and total costs. For this purpose, we used data from community pharmacies' sales, which are available through INFARMED (the Portuguese national authority on medicines and health products). Results: Several trends emerged from data analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the consumption of all azole antifungal drugs included in this study. However, after 2020, fluconazole and sertaconazole consumption has been increasing. In the specific case of fluconazole, there was an increase in expenditure, although the total number of packages suffered a decrease over the 10-year study period. Additionally, the defined daily dose (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants per day for fluconazole and itraconazole was lower compared to estimates from the last available survey (2009). Conclusions: Although our findings represent a lesser pressure on fungi, further monitoring is needed to better understand the evolution of fluconazole and itraconazole consumption over time, particularly due to the trends observed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation of fruit residues is a tendency that has been raising considerable interest, since it reduces the amount of residues generated during agro-industrial processing, increases the profit generated in the operation and makes use of nutritional principals normally disposed of. Melon seeds are good sources of macronutrients such as proteins, lipids and carbohydrates, as well as micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. The germination process leads to a modification in composition, possibly increasing the nutritional quality and altering the physicochemical characteristics of the original raw material positively. Thus, the aim of the present study was to make a comparative evaluation of the physical and physicochemical characteristics, the bioactive compound content and the technological properties of flours produced from the germinated seeds of Pele-de-Sapo, Gália, Cantaloupe and Orange melons, obtained after drying at 50, 60 and 70 ºC. The germinated seed flours of the four melon varieties presented good protein, lipid, ascorbic acid, flavonoid and carotenoid contents, especially Cantaloupe, with the best values for proteins, lipids and carotenoids and the highest phenolic compound contents. All the flours were highly cohesive with low fluidity and good solubility. The variety Cantaloupe provided flours with good water and oil absorption capacities and greater emulsion activities and stability. The highest drying temperatures led to increases in the phenolic compound, flavonoid and carotenoid compounds and increased the Hausner Factor and Carr Index, but reduced the solubility, the water and oil absorption capacities and the emulsion activity. The flours produced showed good nutritional quality and stability, with emphasis on those produced from Cantaloupe melons, which showed the best nutritional characteristics and technological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The persistence or emergence of long-term symptoms following resolution of primary SARS-CoV-2 infection is referred to as long COVID or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). PASC predominantly affects the cardiovascular, neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and immune systems. Among these, the central nervous system (CNS) is significantly impacted, leading to a spectrum of symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, brain fog, cognitive impairment, anosmia, hypogeusia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and peripheral neuropathy (neuro-PASC). However, the risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms responsible for neuro-PASC remain unclear. This review hypothesis discusses the leading hypotheses regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in long COVID/PASC, focusing on neuro-PASC. We propose vascular dysfunction mediated by activation of astrocytes and pericytes followed by blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption as underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of neurological manifestations. Additionally, we provide insights into the role of spike protein at the blood–brain interface. Finally, we explore the potential pathogenic mechanisms initiated by the interaction between the spike protein and cellular receptors at the brain endothelial and tissue levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urine is an organic fluid produced by the kidney, and its analysis is one of the most requested laboratory tests by clinicians. The ionic composition of urine has been shown to be a good health indicator: it is useful for the diagnosis of several diseases, as well as monitoring therapeutics. This review considers laboratorial techniques that have been used throughout time for the quantification of ions in urine, and also considers some methodologies that can potentially be used in clinical laboratories for this kind of analysis. Those methods include gravimetry, titration, flame emission spectrophotometry (flame photometry), fluorimetry, potentiometry (ion selective electrodes), ion chromatography, electrophoresis, kinetic colorimetric tests, enzymatic colorimetric tests, flow cytometry, atomic absorption, plasma atomic emission spectrometry, and paper-based devices. Sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium are among the most important physiological ions, and their determination is frequently requested in hospitals. There have been many advances regarding the analysis of these ions in 24 h urine. However, there is still some way to go concerning the importance of intracellular ions in this type of sample as well as the use of occasional urine for monitoring these parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. The treatment options are strongly related to increased infertility in women. Imiquimod (IQ) is an imidazoquinoline, which has proven antiviral effects against persistent HPV infection by activating immune cells via Toll-like receptors 7/8 when formulated in carriers, like nanogels, for topical use. An effective alternative to conventional therapies is the nanoparticle drug delivery system. We studied lipidic nanoparticles with IQ (Lipo IQ) and functionalized them with a DNA aptamer, AT11 (Lipo IQ AT11), to improve the selectivity for cervical cancer cells combined with the efficacy of essential oils. The formulations showed that the physicochemical properties are adequate for vaginal drug delivery and have antimicrobial activity at higher concentrations (with MIC50 starting from 0.625%). The final formulations exhibited cytotoxicity in cancer cells, enhanced by essential oils without affecting healthy cells, resulting in less than 10% cell viability in HeLa cells and over 60% in NHDF cells. Essential oils potentiate Lipo IQ's effectiveness, while AT11 increases the selectivity for cervical cancer cells. As suggested by the results of the permeation assay, the formulations were internalized by the cancer cells. Overall, the obtained results suggested that the synergistic effect of the essential oils and the nanosystem potentiate the cytotoxic effect of Lipo IQ and that Lipo IQ AT11 promotes selectivity towards cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports new occurrences of Syngamidae nematodes, specifically Cyathostoma (Cyathostoma) phenisci, in seabirds stranded along the northeastern coast of Brazil. Through systematic monitoring efforts of seabird strandings along the coast of Sergipe (northeastern Brazil), deceased specimens were subjected to post-mortem analyses. During necropsies, nematodes were identified in the tracheae of three specimens (Calonectris borealis, Puffinus puffinus, and Ardenna gravis), indicating respiratory infections. The parasites were collected and identified as C. phenisci. This represents the first record of this species in birds of the order Procellariiformes in Brazil. This study expands the known host range for this parasite and suggests a potential underreporting of respiratory infections caused by Syngamidae in seabirds. The findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring of these populations and their implications for the health and conservation of migratory birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity violates the right to regular access to quality food, affecting population groups unequally. In Brazil, FI is associated with both malnutrition and increased obesity and is intertwined with racial and gender inequalities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and social exclusion. This protocol aims to select observational studies that evaluate the association between food insecurity and overweight and their intersectional discussions (gender and race/color). The PRISMA checklist guidelines will be applied, and the PROSPERO platform will be used for registration. Searched in the Virtual Health Library (Lilacs-BVS), Medline PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase Elsevier databases. The stages of article selection and information extraction will be carried out by independent researchers who will identify articles that meet the established inclusion criteria, removing duplicate publications and excluding those that do not meet the requirements. The quality of eligible articles will be assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool For Quantitative Studies (QATFQS), which is recommended for observational studies. This study is not needed for ethical approval, as it is a systematic review based on secondary data. They will disseminate their conclusions from the original articles. PROSPERO registration number:CRD42023427239. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding chromium-methionine (Cr-meth) chelate in extruded diets containing reduced protein content on growth performance, carcass composition, nutrient retention, and hematobiochemical responses in Nile tilapia juveniles. The fish were fed with two control diets (no Cr-meth): positive control (311 g kg−1 of crude protein, estimated 258 g kg−1 of digestible protein) and negative control (255 g kg−1 of crude protein, estimated 207 g kg−1 of digestible protein). Another five experimental diets (mean 251 g kg−1 of crude protein, mean estimated 204 g kg−1 of digestible protein) were supplemented with 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 mg Cr-meth kg diet−1. Juveniles (34.31 g) were organized in a randomized design (seven treatments in triplicate) in 21 tanks (250 L) and fed until apparent satiety. The experiment lasted 9 weeks. Fish fed 0.8 and 1.0 mg Cr-meth kg diet−1 showed zootechnical variables similar to the positive control. The reduced protein diets showed lower costs, and supplementation with 0.91 mg kg−1 of chromium matched the profitability observed in the positive control diet. Carcass gross energy and energy retention, plasma cholesterol (total and LDL), and triglycerides values were higher in fish fed 0.6 mg Cr-meth kg diet−1 than in the positive control. Treatments with dietary Cr-meth (mainly between 0.4 and 0.8 mg kg−1) decreased carcass Cr, selenium, and copper retention and increased carcass nitrogen retention and muscle glycogen levels compared to the positive control. This treatment (positive control) also had lower values for total leukocytes and monocytes, respectively, than fish fed 0.2 and 0.4 mg Cr-meth kg diet−1 and for eosinophils and lymphocytes than fish fed 0.8 mg Cr-meth kg diet−1. In conclusion, we recommend supplementation with 0.8 mg Cr-meth kg diet−1 for diets with low protein content, as it produces a dietary protein-sparing effect, reducing costs, improving immune defense, muscle glycogen, and nitrogen retention without compromising growth performance, physiology, and fish metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is undeniable. It is necessary to reduce emissions in order to curb global warming and meet the Paris Agreement goals. Globally, the energy sector is the bigger greenhouse gases emitter, especially for the use of fossil fuels. Thus, it is important to think about strategies to reduce the intensity of emissions from these sources and to replace them. Previous energy transitions occurred due to the discovery of cheaper and more efficient sources, in a long-term process. The challenge imposed by this transition is to make it in a short time while moving towards less efficient sources and more expensive technologies. So, the state will have a central role to play, drawing up public policies and regulations to encourage the transition to a low-carbon economy. Thus, the state will need to act as the main promoter of this transition, offering the conditions for a fairly process, without representing too high cost for the most vulnerable populations, and in a short term. To face it, the state cannot rely solely on its resources. As proposed by Abbott and Snidal, the state will need to exercise a new form of governance, orchestrating a plurality of actors and rules from different natures to build an adequate regulation with the capacity to update itself more promptly. The state can accelerate the timing of its actions by counting on the expertise and resources of other actors, ensuring that the public interest is pursued and that the involvement of society is guaranteed in the drafting of regulations. Thus, the regulatory system for decarbonization actions in the O&G sector will be produced jointly by state and non-state actors, combining expertise and resources. It will be made up of national, international, and transnational rules, forming a transnational legal order, as proposed by Halliday and Shaffer. As Weaver argues, time is short and the collaboration and information sharing are essential, especially when both regulated private energy companies and the state actors have pledged to meet a net-zero goal to face the climate emergency. Also, the importance of creating partnerships to achieve a more sustainable reality is even included in the UN's 17th Sustainable Development Goals. In sum, cooperation has the power to expand respective national response capabilities and generate substantive global results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In large transdisciplinary research teams finding the balance between using the most appropriate and needed measures for data collection and minimising participant burden is often a significant challenge. This paper aims to describe the development process for selecting a set of determinants of physical activity behaviours in 9–12 years old children. An internal small group (n = 8) worked iteratively with an external large group of experts and stakeholders (n = 30-50) in three steps: 1) External input – Identification through expert opinion; 2) Internal input – Identification and selection via a systematized approach; 3) External validation of the selected measures. During these steps, 113 measures were first identified, then scored, sorted, and selected using evidence-building practices such as systematic literature reviews, peer-review, and consensus discussions. Eighteen measures were agreed and included in the core measures toolkit (child and caregiver questionnaires). In conclusion, pragmatism, implementation concerns, and the experts' experience were key in this process. This process may be considered as a reference to others involved in the challenge of selecting measures in their research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by significant impairments in social, communicative, and behavioral abilities. However, only a limited number of studies address the genetic basis of ASD in the African population. This study aims to document the genes associated with ASD in Africa and the techniques used to identify them. Additionally, genes identified elsewhere but not yet in Africa are also noted. Methods: Online databases such as Wiley Online Library, PubMed, and Africa Journal Online were used. The review was conducted using the keyword related to genetic and genomic ASD study in the African population. Result: In this scoping review, 40 genetic studies on ASD in Africa were reviewed. The Egyptian and South African populations were the most studied, with 25 and 5 studies, respectively. Countries with fewer studies included Tunisia (4), East African countries (3), Libya (1), Nigeria (1), and Morocco (1). Some 61 genes responsible for ASD were identified in the African population: 26 were identified using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method, 22 were identified using sequencing technologies, and 12 genes and one de novo chromosomal aberration were identified through other techniques. No African study identified any ASD gene with genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Notably, at least 20 ASD risk genes reported in non-African countries were yet to be confirmed in Africa's population. Conclusion: There are insufficient genetic studies on ASD in the African population, with sample size being a major limitation in most genetic association studies, leading to inconclusive results. Thus, there is a need to conduct more studies with large sample sizes to identify other genes associated with ASD in Africa's population using high-throughput sequencing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Individuals with chronic illnesses and those infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 often face stigma, shame, and psychological distress related to their conditions. Higher psychological flexibility and self‐compassion are often associated with less stigma and shame. Examining and comparing these experiences between people with chronic illness and people who have recovered from SARS‐CoV‐2 can provide valuable insights into the shared and unique challenges they encounter. This study aimed to compare these two groups, and used structural equation modelling to investigate the links between stigma, shame, and psychological distress, with a focus on the mediating roles of psychological flexibility and self‐compassion in these associations. The study included 270 Portuguese participants (chronic illness: n = 104; SARS‐CoV‐2: n = 166), with an average age of 36.73 years and 86.6% of the sample being women. Results showed that the chronic illness subgroup reported higher levels of illness stigma, anxiety, and depression, compared to the SARS‐CoV‐2 subgroup. Findings from the mediation analysis, revealed that the model fit exceptionally well, accounting for 48% of the variance in anxiety and 45% in depression symptoms across the entire sample. Most parameters were consistent between the two subgroups, except for the association between self‐compassion and depression symptoms, which was only statistically significant in the chronic illness subgroup. In this group, both psychological flexibility and self‐compassion mediated the association between stigma and shame with symptoms of anxiety and depression. In the SARS‐CoV‐2 subgroup, these processes mediated the association with anxiety, whereas psychological flexibility only mediated depression symptoms. The findings from this study provide directions for future research on the possible development or refinement of personalized psychological interventions targeting emotional distress in adults with chronic illnesses and viral disease recovery cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by significant impairments in social, communicative, and behavioral abilities. However, only a limited number of studies address the genetic basis of ASD in the African population. This study aims to document the genes associated with ASD in Africa and the techniques used to identify them. Additionally, genes identified elsewhere but not yet in Africa are also noted. Methods: Online databases such as Wiley Online Library, PubMed, and Africa Journal Online were used. The review was conducted using the keyword related to genetic and genomic ASD study in the African population. Result: In this scoping review, 40 genetic studies on ASD in Africa were reviewed. The Egyptian and South African populations were the most studied, with 25 and 5 studies, respectively. Countries with fewer studies included Tunisia (4), East African countries (3), Libya (1), Nigeria (1), and Morocco (1). Some 61 genes responsible for ASD were identified in the African population: 26 were identified using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method, 22 were identified using sequencing technologies, and 12 genes and one de novo chromosomal aberration were identified through other techniques. No African study identified any ASD gene with genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Notably, at least 20 ASD risk genes reported in non-African countries were yet to be confirmed in Africa's population. Conclusion: There are insufficient genetic studies on ASD in the African population, with sample size being a major limitation in most genetic association studies, leading to inconclusive results. Thus, there is a need to conduct more studies with large sample sizes to identify other genes associated with ASD in Africa's population using high-throughput sequencing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by significant impairments in social, communicative, and behavioral abilities. However, only a limited number of studies address the genetic basis of ASD in the African population. This study aims to document the genes associated with ASD in Africa and the techniques used to identify them. Additionally, genes identified elsewhere but not yet in Africa are also noted. Methods: Online databases such as Wiley Online Library, PubMed, and Africa Journal Online were used. The review was conducted using the keyword related to genetic and genomic ASD study in the African population. Result: In this scoping review, 40 genetic studies on ASD in Africa were reviewed. The Egyptian and South African populations were the most studied, with 25 and 5 studies, respectively. Countries with fewer studies included Tunisia (4), East African countries (3), Libya (1), Nigeria (1), and Morocco (1). Some 61 genes responsible for ASD were identified in the African population: 26 were identified using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method, 22 were identified using sequencing technologies, and 12 genes and one de novo chromosomal aberration were identified through other techniques. No African study identified any ASD gene with genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Notably, at least 20 ASD risk genes reported in non-African countries were yet to be confirmed in Africa's population. Conclusion: There are insufficient genetic studies on ASD in the African population, with sample size being a major limitation in most genetic association studies, leading to inconclusive results. Thus, there is a need to conduct more studies with large sample sizes to identify other genes associated with ASD in Africa's population using high-throughput sequencing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sleep, sedentary behaviour, and physical activity are essential components within the 24-hour time frame. Existing questionnaires used to measure these behaviours have insufficient measurement properties and are unsuitable for assessing compliance with the WHO Physical Activity and 24-hour Movement Guidelines. To describe the development process of the 24-hour Movement Questionnaire (QMov24h) and its testing. The QMov24h was developed to gather detailed information on sleep, sedentary behaviour, and physical activity. Methods: The sample comprised 117 participants (58% women), aged 30.95 ± 13.56 years. The development process of the QMov24h followed the COSMIN guidelines: (i) Construction of items; (ii) Face validity with end-users; (iii) Content validity with experts; (iv) Criterion validity against accelerometry and convergent validity against diary assessments; and (v) 7-day test-retest reliability. Results: The QMov24h presented adequate content and face validity. The QMov24h showed moderate criterion validity for sleep (rho=0.343;p<0.001), light physical activity (rho=0.31;p=0.002) and total aerobic physical activity (rho=0.343;p<0.001), as well as strong criterion validity for sedentary behaviour (rho=0.428;p<0.001) and aerobic moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (rho=0.534;p<0.001). Reliability varied from poor to excellent (ICC from 0.38 to 0.962;p<0.001) for all questionnaire variables. Regarding compliance of the 24-hour movement guidelines, the questionnaire also showed a strong to almost perfect percentage of agreement with accelerometry (from 69% to 94.3%), and minimal to strong reliability (k from 0.38 to 0.87) between the first and second administrations of the QMov24h. Conclusions: The QMov24h questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for assessing levels of movement behaviours and compliance with guidelines in adults. Its measurement properties are comparable to, or even better than, those of existing questionnaires, while posing a similar burden to participants. The QMov24h is useful for research, clinical practice, and public health surveillance. The QMov24h has strong psychometric properties, making it suitable for translation, cultural adaptation, and testing in diverse populations for broader international use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GeSec: Revista de Gestao e Secretariado is the property of Sindicato das Secretarias e Secretarios do Estado de Sao Paulo (SINSESP) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most aggressive malignancies. Our previous work revealed Chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1) involvement in PDAC resistance to gemcitabine, identifying it as a promising therapeutic target. Here, we aimed to identify putative CHI3L1 inhibitors and to investigate their chemosensitizing potential in PDAC. Methods: Docking analysis for CHI3L1 identified promising CHI3L1 inhibitors, including darifenacin (muscarinic receptor antagonist). PDAC cell lines (BxPC-3, PANC-1) and primary PDAC cells were used to evaluate darifenacin's effects on cell growth (Sulforhodamine B, SRB), alone or in combination with gemcitabine or gemcitabine plus paclitaxel. Cytotoxicity against normal immortalized pancreatic ductal cells (HPNE) was assessed. Recombinant protein was used to confirm the impact of darifenacin on CHI3L1-induced PDAC cellular resistance to therapy (SRB assay). Darifenacin's effect on Akt activation was analysed by ELISA. The association between cholinergic receptor muscarinic 3 (CHRM3) expression and therapeutic response was evaluated by immunohistochemistry of paraffin-embedded tissues from surgical resections of a 68 patients' cohort. Results: In silico screening revealed the ability of darifenacin to target CHI3L1 with high efficiency. Darifenacin inhibited PDAC cell growth, with a GI50 of 26 and 13.6 µM in BxPC-3 and PANC-1 cells, respectively. These results were confirmed in primary PDAC-3 cells, while darifenacin showed no cytotoxicity against HPNE cells. Importantly, darifenacin sensitized PDAC cells to standard chemotherapies, reverted CHI3L1-induced PDAC cellular resistance to therapy, and decreased Akt phosphorylation. Additionally, high CHMR3 expression was associated with low therapeutic response to gemcitabine. Conclusion: This work highlights the potential of darifenacin as a chemosensitizer for PDAC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Memory CD8+ T cells are essential for long-term immune protection in viral infections, including COVID-19. Methods: This study examined the responses of CD8+ TEM, TEMRA, and TCM subsets from unvaccinated individuals who had recovered from mild and severe COVID-19 by flow cytometry. Results and Discussion: The peptides triggered a higher frequency of CD8+ TCM cells in the recovered mild group. CD8+ TCM and TEM cells showed heterogeneity in CD137 expression between evaluated groups. In addition, a predominance of CD137 expression in naïve CD8+ T cells, TCM, and TEM was observed in the mild recovered group when stimulated with peptides. Furthermore, CD8+ TCM and TEM cell subsets from mild recovered volunteers had higher TNF-α expression. In contrast, the expression partner of IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-17 indicated an antiviral signature by CD8+ TEMRA cells. These findings underscore the distinct functional capabilities of each memory T cell subset in individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 upon re-exposure to SARS-CoV-2 antigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliable and systematic qualitative methodologies to assess participants' change after group interventions are scarce. This study outlines a methodolo5gical approach to use in focus groups, allowing the elicitation and coding of participants' change talk after a group intervention. A Change Elicitation Script for Focus Groups was developed and its viability for evoking participants' discussion around change was tested. Following a self-compassion intervention for teachers, participants' dialogue was examined in three focus groups following a simplified version of Innovative Moments Coding System for groups. Results suggest that the Change Elicitation Script for Focus Groups effectively prompted participants' discussion around change. The Innovative Moments Coding System for groups allowed to reliably identify, delimit, and categorize Innovative Moments throughout these dialogues. Although preliminary, this study puts forward a mixed-method methodology, applicable to the retrospective analysis of the process of change in post-intervention focus groups, from educational to clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic held considerable health-related outcomes worldwide, including mental health challenges, with elevated risk of psychiatric sequelae. Methods: This study aimed to test the longitudinal (1 year) predictive role of psychosocial factors on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depressive symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 survivors (N = 209 at T1; N = 61; attrition rate 70.83%), through Pearson's correlation analyses and longitudinal multiple regression analyses. Participants (age M = 35.4, SD = 10.1) completed online selfreport questionnaires of psychosocial variables, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Results: Depression and anxiety symptoms were increased, and 42% of survivors presented clinically meaningful PTSD symptoms. PTSD symptoms were longitudinally predicted by having children (β = 0.32, p < 0.01), number of recent major life events (β = 0.34, p < 0.01), and psychological flexibility (β = -0.36, p < 0.01). Number of major life events (β = 0.29, p < 0.05) and psychological flexibility (β = -0.29, p < 0.05) predicted anxiety. Number of recent major life events (β = 0.32, p < 0.01) was the sole predictor of depressive symptoms. Discussion: Psychosocial variables contribute to the long-term harmful effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychopathological symptoms. These results suggest that, during the pandemic, mental health was impacted by both sociocontextual factors and individual self-regulatory skills, namely the ability to respond flexibily to contextual cues and guide behavior according to the direct experience. Specifically, results point out the importance of societal incentives to reduce parental burden and socioeconomic losses, as well as to promote adaptive psychological skills such as psychological flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infections are a significant threat to human health and the environment. The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of fungi and the growing prevalence of azole resistance in invasive fungal infections exacerbate the problem, with efflux pumps being a major cause of antifungal resistance and a prime target for several counteractive strategies. In Candida albicans, the ATP-binding cassette superfamily transporter CaCdr1p is the predominant efflux pump involved in azole resistance. Marine organisms have unique phenotypic characteristics to survive in challenging environments, resulting in biologically active compounds. The cyclodepsipeptides unnarmicin A and C have shown promising results as inhibitors of rhodamine 6G efflux in cells expressing CaCdr1p. Herein, a series of unnarmicin analogues were designed and docked against a CaCdr1p efflux pump based on the cryogenic electron microscopy structure available to select the most promising compounds. Analogue 33 was predicted to be the best considering its high affinity for the efflux pump and pharmacokinetic profile. These results pave the way for further synthesis and in vitro biological studies of novel unnarmicins seeking a synergistic effect with fluconazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectin is an additive generally extracted from citrous and apple peels, but an increasing demand has stimulated the search for new commercial sources of this product. The cassava cortex is rich in pectin and could be destined for reuse as a new source of this additive, since the disposal of cassava processing residues results in soil and water contamination. Thus, the aim of the present study was to extract pectin from cassava cortex. Initially the flour of this residue was obtained by convective drying and characterized, providing evidence for the possibility of extracting pectin. A central rotational composite design was used to define the best extraction condition based on yield, degree of exterification and galacturonic acid for two extracting solvents (citric and acetic acid) in response to the variables concentration, time and temperature. After extraction, the samples were submitted to convective drying to obtain pectin powders. The optimum condition for pectin extraction was obtained using the desirability function of the Statistica software with the degree of esterification as the priority variable, since the aim was to obtain quality pectin favorable for application. According to the results obtained, the optimized extraction conditions with citric acid were a concentration of 7%, temperature of 62 °C and time of 90 min. With acetic acid they were a concentration of 7%, temperature of 80 °C and process time of 90 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer therapy has been facing remarkable changes. Classic treatments are now combined with other therapies to improve efficacy and surpass resistance. Indeed, the emergence of resistance demands the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Due to key estrogen signaling, estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer treatment has always been focused on aromatase inhibition and ER modulation. Lately, the effects of phytocannabinoids, mainly Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been evaluated in different cancers, including breast. However, Cannabis sativa contains more than 120 phytocannabinoids less researched and understood. Methods: Here, we evaluated, both in silico and in vitro, the ability of 129 phytocannabinoids to modulate important molecular targets in ER+ breast cancer: aromatase, ER, and androgen receptor (AR). Results: In silico results suggested that some cannabinoids may inhibit aromatase and act as ERα antagonists. Nine selected cannabinoids showed, in vitro, potential to act either as ER antagonists with inverse agonist properties, or as ER agonists. Moreover, these cannabinoids were considered as weak aromatase inhibitors and AR antagonists with inverse agonist action. Conclusions: Overall, we present, for the first time, a comprehensive analysis of the actions of the phytocannabinoids in targets of ER+ breast tumors, pointing out their therapeutic potential in cancer and in other diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Swimming is a popular and cost-effective way to prevent sedentary behavior and improve physical conditioning and health during early adolescence. However, information on its impact and benefits on daily life activities is lacking. This systematic review aims to summarize the chronic effects of swimming on physical conditioning and physical health outcomes in early adolescents. Methods: The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed and PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and International Symposium of Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming proceedings databases were searched. Eligibility criteria were defined on the PICOS framework (healthy adolescents in early puberty, swimming programmes or training, passive or active control groups, general effects on physical conditioning or health, longitudinal) and risk of bias was assessed using RoBANS 2. Results: From 2365 records, 20 non-randomized studies met the defined criteria. High heterogeneity in sample size and intervention was observed. While studies related to physical conditioning (n = 5) focused on physiological variables and muscular function, the evidence regarding physical health outcomes (n = 15) explored bone accrual, haemodynamics, body composition, musculoskeletal system, and lung growth. High overall risk of bias (70%) was observed due to strict criteria. Conclusions: Swimming exercise seems to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, cardiac output, haemodynamics, heart growth, motor performance, and body composition of early adolescents. Despite clear evidence that exists on these chronic effects, research on bone health, postural deficit, motor skills, and sleep quality is still missing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyse hospital case fatality and mortality related to Chagas disease (CD) in Brazil, 2000–2019. Method: This is a mixed ecological study with spatial and temporal trends, based on national population data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health - hospital admissions (HA) and death certificates (DC). Records with CD as a primary or secondary cause of death in HA and/or as an underlying or associated cause of death in DC were evaluated. Temporal trends were analysed by Joinpoint regression and the spatial distribution of age- and gender-adjusted rates, spatial moving averages, and standardized morbidity ratios. Results: There were a total of 4,376 HA due to CD resulting in death in Brazil, with a hospital case fatality rate of 0.11/100,000 inhabitants. The Southeast region had the highest rate (63.9%, n = 2,796; 0.17/100,000 inhabitants). The general trend for this indicator in Brazil is upwards (average annual percentage change [AAPC] 7.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.3 to 9.9), with increases in the North, Northeast and Southeast regions. During the same period 122,275 deaths from CD were registered in DC, with a mortality rate of 3.14/100,000 inhabitants. The highest risk of CD-related death was found among men (relative risk [RR] 1.27) and Afro-Brazilians (RR 1.63). There was a downward trend in CD mortality in the country (AAPC − 0.7%, 95%CI -0.9 to -0.5), with an increase in the Northeast region (AAPC 1.1%, 95%CI 0.6 to 1.6). Municipalities with a very high Brazilian Deprivation Index tended to show an increase in mortality (AAPC 2.1%, 95%CI 1.6 to 2.7), while the others showed a decrease. Conclusion: Hospital case fatality and mortality due to CD are a relevant public health problem in Brazil. Differences related to gender, ethnicity, and social vulnerability reinforce the need for comprehensive care, and to ensure equity in access to health in the country. Municipalities, states, and regions with indicators that reveal higher morbidity and mortality need to be prioritized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Affective responses are increasingly recognized as potentially effective intervention targets that may facilitate exercise and physical activity behavior change. While emerging correlational evidence suggests that more pleasant affective responses are associated with higher participation and adherence, experimental evidence remains scarce. In light of this, we conducted a preregistered, pragmatic, single-blinded, superiority randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups, with the goal of determining the impact of an individualized exercise-intensity prescription targeting pleasure on exercise frequency. Methods: Forty-seven non-regular exercisers were randomized into two groups. For both groups, the intervention consisted of three exercise sessions based on the Frequency-Intensity-Time-Type (FITT) principle. However, the experimental group also received an individualized intensity prescription based on prior assessment of preference for and tolerance of exercise intensity, as well as instructions emphasizing the promotion of pleasure as a basis for self-regulating exercise intensity. The primary outcome was gymnasium attendance over an eight-week follow-up period. Secondary outcomes were affective valence and arousal, post-exercise enjoyment, core affective exercise experiences, and anticipated and remembered affect. Results: Forty-six participants were retained for analysis (Mage = 32.00; SD = 8.62 years; 56.5% female). Compared to the control group, the experimental group exhibited 77% higher session attendance (14.35 vs. 8.13 sessions) over the eight-week follow-up period (group main effect p =.018, η2p =.120; Cohen's d ranged from 0.28 to 0.91 during follow-up). Also, the experimental group reported higher levels of pleasure during the intervention sessions (for all group main effects, p <.001, η2p from.33 to.37) and higher levels of remembered pleasure (group main effect p =.021, η2p =.116) and anticipated pleasure (group main effect p =.022, η2p =.114). No harm was detected. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of an intervention aimed at enhancing affective responses to exercise in improving short-term session attendance. Trial registration: ClinicalTrial.gov NCT05416593. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Genomic newborn screening programs are emerging worldwide. With the support of the local pediatric team of Liege, Belgium, we developed a panel of 405 genes that are associated with 165 early-onset, treatable diseases with the goal of creating a newborn screening test using targeted next-generation sequencing for all early-onset, treatable, and serious conditions. Methods: A process was developed that informed the future parents about the project and collected their consent during a face-to-face discussion with a trained investigator. The first baby was screened on 1 September 2022. The main objective of the study was to test the feasibility and the acceptability of targeted sequencing at birth as a first-tier newborn screening approach to detect treatable genetic conditions or genetic conditions for which a pre-symptomatic or early symptomatic clinical trial is available. Results: As of 20 June 2024, the parents of 4425 children had been offered the test; 4005 accepted (90.5%) and 420 refused (9.5%). The main reasons for refusal were the research nature of the project and the misunderstanding of what constitutes genetic conditions. Conclusions: These data demonstrate the high acceptability of genomic newborn screening in a properly informed population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to carry out experiments on water absorption by husked red rice at constant temperatures of 28, 40, and 50 °C. The description of the absorption kinetics and the analyses of the water distribution and volumetric expansion of each grain, at a given instant, were carried out using a diffusion model. In order for the model to be as close as possible to the real physical situation, the mesh necessary to numerically solve the diffusion equation was generated from the photograph of a grain. Thus, the diffusion equation was written in Boundary-Fitted Coordinates (BFCs). The solution of the diffusion equation written in generalized coordinates was then discretized in space and time, using the Finite Volume method, with a fully implicit formulation, considering the variable volume and variable mass diffusivity as functions of the local moisture content. Optimizations based on the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm make it possible to determine the parameters of an exponential function relating mass diffusivity and the local moisture content for each temperature. Statistical indicators (chi-square, determination coefficient, and Student's t-test) allowed us to conclude that the proposed model was very satisfactory for all temperatures, making it possible to simulate the water absorption, water distribution, and volumetric expansion of the grain over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a global health concern, ranking as the sixth most common malignancy worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Despite advances in research, the diagnosis and prognosis of such malignancy remain challenging. Alpha-fetoprotein, the current serum biomarker used in the management of HCC, has limited sensitivity and specificity, making early detection and effective management more difficult. Thus, new management approaches in diagnosis and prognosis are needed to improve the outcome and survival of HCC patients. SNHG1 is a long noncoding RNA mainly expressed in the cell and cytoplasm of cells and is consistently upregulated in tissues and cell lines of HCC, where it acts as an important regulator of various processes: modulation of p53 activity, sponging of microRNAs with consequent upregulation of their target mRNAs, regulation of fatty acid, iron and glucose metabolism, and interaction with immune cells. The deregulation of these processes results in abnormal cell division, angiogenesis, and apoptosis, thus promoting various aspects of tumorigenesis, including proliferation, invasion, and migration of cells. Clinically, a higher expression of SNHG1 predicts poorer clinical outcomes by significantly correlating with bigger, less differentiated, and more aggressive tumors, more advanced disease stages, and lower overall survival in HCC patients. This article comprehensively summarizes the current understanding of the multifaceted roles of SNHG1 in the pathogenesis of HCC, while also highlighting its clinicopathological correlations, therefore concluding that it has potential as a biomarker in HCC diagnosis and prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Prostate cancer (PrCa) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men. Variants in known moderate- to high-penetrance genes explain less than 5% of the cases arising at early-onset (< 56 years) and/or with familial aggregation of the disease. Considering that BubR1 is an essential component of the mitotic spindle assembly checkpoint, we hypothesized that monoallelic BUB1B variants could be sufficient to fuel chromosomal instability (CIN), potentially triggering (prostate) carcinogenesis. Methods: To unveil BUB1B as a new PrCa predisposing gene, we performed targeted next-generation sequencing in germline DNA from 462 early-onset/familial PrCa patients and 1,416 cancer patients fulfilling criteria for genetic testing for other hereditary cancer syndromes. To explore the pan-cancer role of BUB1B, we used in silico BubR1 molecular modeling, in vitro gene-editing, and ex vivo patients' tumors and peripheral blood lymphocytes. Results: Rare BUB1B variants were found in ~ 1.9% of the early-onset/familial PrCa cases and in ~ 0.6% of other cancer patients fulfilling criteria for hereditary disease. We further show that BUB1B variants lead to decreased BubR1 expression and/or stability, which promotes increased premature chromatid separation and, consequently, triggers CIN, driving resistance to Taxol-based therapies. Conclusions: Our study shows that different BUB1B variants may uncover a trigger for CIN-driven carcinogenesis, supporting the role of BUB1B as a (pan)-cancer predisposing gene with potential impact on genetic counseling and treatment decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for new metal-based anticancer drug candidates is a fundamental task in medicinal inorganic chemistry. In this work, we assessed the potential of two new Ru(II)–phosphine–mercapto complexes as potential anticancer agents. The complexes, with the formula [Ru(bipy)(dppen)(Lx)]PF6 [(1), HL1 = 2-mercapto–pyridine and (2), HL2 = 2-mercapto–pyrimidine, bipy = 2,2′-bipyridine, dppen = cis-1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)-ethylene] were synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) [1H, 31P(1H), and 13C], high resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS), cyclic voltammetry, infrared and UV-Vis spectroscopies. Complex 2 was obtained as a mixture of two isomers, 2a and 2b, respectively. The composition of these metal complexes was confirmed by elemental analysis and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). To obtain insights into their lipophilicity, their distribution coefficients between n-octanol/PBS were determined. Both complexes showed affinity mainly for the organic phase, presenting positive log P values. Also, their stability was confirmed over 48 h in different media (i.e., DMSO, PBS and cell culture medium) via HPLC, UV-Vis and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopies. Since enzymes from the P-450 system play a crucial role in cellular detoxification and metabolism, the microsomal stability of 1, which was found to be the most interesting compound of this study, was investigated using human microsomes to verify its potential oxidation in the liver. The analyses by LC-MS and ESI-MS reveal three main metabolites, obtained by oxidation in the dppen and bipy moieties. Moreover, 1 was able to interact with human serum albumin (HSA). The cytotoxicity of the metal complexes was tested in different cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines. Complex 1 was found to be more selective than cisplatin against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells when compared to MCF-10A non-cancerous cells. In addition, complex 1 affects cell morphology and migration, and inhibits colony formation in MDA-MB-231 cells, making it a promising cytotoxic agent against breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]