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Abstract Group B Streptococcus (GBS) remains the leading bacterial cause of invasive neonatal disease, resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality. New therapeutic approaches beyond antibacterial treatment to prevent neonatal disease outcomes are urgent. One significant limitation in studying GBS disease and progression is the lack of non-invasive technologies for longitudinal studies. Here, we develop and compare three bioluminescent GBS strains for in vivo pathogenic analysis. Bioluminescence is based on the luxABCDE operon on a replicative vector (luxGBS-CC17), and the red-shifted firefly luciferase on a replicative vector (fflucGBS-CC17) or integrated in the genome (glucGBS-CC17). We show that luxGBS-CC17 is suitable for in vitro analysis but does not produce a significant bioluminescent signal in infected pups. In contrast, the fflucGBS-CC17 results in a strong bioluminescent signal proportional to the organ colonisation level. However, the stability of the replicative vector depends on the route of infection, especially when pups acquire the bacteria from infected vaginal mucosa. Stable chromosomal integration of luciferase in glucGBS-CC17 leads to significant bioluminescence in both haematological and vertical infection models associated with high systemic colonisation. These strains will allow the preclinical evaluation of treatment efficacy against GBS invasive disease using whole-mouse bioluminescence imaging.

Abstract The dataset presents a 43 year-long reanalysis of pollen seasons for three major allergenic genera of trees in Europe: alder (Alnus), birch (Betula), and olive (Olea). Driven by the meteorological reanalysis ERA5, the atmospheric composition model SILAM predicted the flowering period and calculated the Europe-wide dispersion pattern of pollen for the years 1980–2022. The model applied an extended 4-dimensional variational data assimilation of in-situ observations of aerobiological networks in 34 European countries to reproduce the inter-annual variability and trends of pollen production and distribution. The control variable of the assimilation procedure was the total pollen release during each flowering season, implemented as an annual correction factor to the mean pollen production. The dataset was designed as an input to studies on climate-induced and anthropogenically driven changes in the European vegetation, biodiversity monitoring, bioaerosol modelling and assessment, as well as, in combination with intra-seasonal observations, for health-related applications.

IntroductionDespite being a natural feline behavior, scratching can become undesirable from a human perspective when directed at household items. This complex behavior can stem from various motivations, ranging from individual cat characteristics to environmental factors. This study investigates the factors influencing the increased level of undesirable scratching behavior in domestic cats, considering both cat-related and environmental aspects.MethodsData from 1,211 cats were collected for this study. An online questionnaire comprising three sections was utilized. The first section gathered caregiver demographics, while the subsequent section examined aspects of cats’ daily routines, social interactions, environments, behaviours, and temperaments. The final section assessed the frequency and intensity of undesirable scratching behavior in cats. Scratching behavior was evaluated based on a combined scratching index.ResultsThe study suggests that the presence of a child may be associated with scratching episodes in the home environment. Additionally, factors such as play duration, playfulness, and nocturnal activity were identified as significant contributors to heightened scratching levels (p ≤ 0.05). Aggressiveness and disruptiveness also played significant roles in increased scratching behavior (p ≤ 0.05). The location of scratching posts emerged as a significant factor, with posts placed in areas frequented by the cat being more effective in redirecting scratching behavior (p ≤ 0.05).DiscussionThis study reveals several significant associations between cat characteristics, nocturnal activity and play, as well as the environment. It underscores the multifaceted nature of undesirable scratching behavior and emphasizes the importance of comprehensively understanding both the individual characteristics of the cat and its environment to effectively address this behavior.

The career construction and sociocognitive career theories were considered to test an integrative model of career adaptation in higher education. Participants were 523 Portuguese university students (non-working, n = 335, Mage = 20.64; working, n = 188, Mage = 29.05), who completed measures of social support, protean orientation, adaptability and adapting as adaptation predictors, and career certainty, academic wellbeing, and life satisfaction as adaptation outcomes. Multigroup path analysis results indicated a good fit of the model and invariance across groups after some changes. Although more studies are needed to explore the range and limits of the proposed model validity, our findings allow the career development literature extension while informing the practice. Career counselors might facilitate university students’ adjustment by helping them expand their social network and develop their career attitudes.

The global rise in obesity and its co-morbidities raises worldwide health, social and economic concerns, especially in developed countries. Compounds derived from natural sources are now in the focus of pharmacological therapies. In recent years, sulforaphane (SFN) has been the subject of studies due to its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and potential anti-obesity effects. Lately, some studies have also reported the anti-obesogenic potential of chlorophyll. In this study, we evaluated the anti-obesity effects of SFN and chlorophyll a (Chlo.a) in C57BL/6J mice fed with a Western diet, rich in sugar and fat. The study lasted 14 weeks, and for the last 4 weeks SFN (0.25 or 0.5 mg/kg/day) or Chlo.a (0.2 or 0.5 mg/kg/day) was administered orally. The results showed that supplementation with SFN or Chlo.a resulted in an increase in body temperature and a reduction in the size of adipocytes. However, the administration of SFN or Chlo.a for 4 weeks did not decrease the body weight gain or hepatic steatosis, and increased hepatic ROS counterbalancing with an increase in SOD activity. In conclusion, in the animal model used, treatment with SFN or Chlo.a did not show strong anti-obesity effects; however, slight improvements were observed with the supplementation of these compounds.

Abstract Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic infection caused by the newly discovered severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Remdesivir (RDV) and corticosteroids are used mainly in COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory failure. The main objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of remdesivir with and without corticosteroids in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. We conducted a prospective observational study, including adult patients consecutively hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 and acute respiratory failure. Patients were divided according to treatment strategy: RDV alone versus RDV with corticosteroids. The primary outcome was the time to recovery in both treatment groups. We included 374 COVID-19 adult patients, 184 were treated with RDV, and 190 were treated with RDV and corticosteroid. Patients in the RDV group had a shorter time to recovery in comparison with patients in the RDV plus corticosteroids group at 28 days after admission [11 vs. 16 days (95% confidence Interval 9.7–12.8; 14.9–17.1; p = .016)]. Patients treated with RDV alone had a shorter length of hospital stay. The use of corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy of RDV was not associated with improvement in mortality of COVID-19 patients.

Consumers are increasingly looking for healthy foods without the addition of synthetic additives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of coffee extracts as a natural antioxidant in fresh pork sausage. Firstly, the conditions for obtaining coffee green extracts were optimized (Central Composite Rotatable Design 23, variables: extraction time, ethanol–water ratio, and sample–solvent ratio) in an ultrasound bath (70 °C). The response variables were the bioactive compounds levels and antioxidant activity. Valid models were obtained (p ≤ 0.05, R2 > 0.751), with higher bioactive content and antioxidant activity in the central point region. Extracts of Robusta and Arabica coffee green (RG and AG) and medium roast (RR and AR) obtained, and central point (10 min, an ethanol concentration of 30%, and a sample–solvent ratio of 10 g/100 mL) and optimized (14.2 min, 34.2%, and 5.8 g/100 mL) parameters were characterized. The RG presented a significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher content of caffeine (3114.8 ± 50.0 and 3148.1 ± 13.5 mg/100 g) and 5-CQA (6417.1 ± 22.0 and 6706.4 ± 23.5 mg/100 g) in both extraction conditions, respectively. The RG and RR coffee presented the highest antioxidant activity. Two concentrations of RG and RR coffee extracts were tested in fresh pork sausage. The Robusta coffee extract presented the highest antioxidant activity in both roasted and green states. However, when applied to a meat product, the extract prepared with RG coffee showed better results, with efficiency in replacing synthetic antioxidants (content of malonaldehyde/kg of sample below 0.696 ± 0.059 in 20 days of storage), without altering the sensory attributes of the product (average scores above 7.16 ± 1.43 for all attributes evaluated). Therefore, the RG coffee extract was a suitable alternative as a natural antioxidant applied to fresh pork sausage.

Enquadramento: As restrições impostas pela pandemia COVID-19 dificultaram a vivência dos processos de luto, contribuindo o desenvolvimento de processos patológicos de luto. Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de luto patológico em familiares de pessoas vítimas mortais de COVID-19; Verificar se as estratégias de coping predizem o luto. Metodologia: Estudo observacional, descritivo-correlacional e transversal. A amostra não probabilística teve 86 participantes. Os dados foram explorados através de estatística descritiva e inferencial. Resultados: Cinquenta e dois familiares (60,5%) apresentaram um processo de luto complicado. A dimensão Gestão das emoções do coping está correlacionada positivamente com o luto, no global, (p = 0,29; p = 0,01), na dimensão de Negação e revolta (p = 0,35; p < 0,001) e com a dimensão Depressiva (p = 0,28; p = 0,01). Verificou-se ainda uma correlação negativa da dimensão Focada na tarefa com a dimensão específica de Negação e revolta (p = -0,24; p = 0,03). Conclusão: Os participantes apresentam uma elevada probabilidade de desenvolver processos de luto complicado, pelo que devem ser implementadas medidas de apoio psicológico.

Summary: Here, we take advantage of the low chromosome number (2N=6) and distinctively large kinetochores of female Indian muntjac cells to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying k-fiber maturation. We describe steps for monitoring kinetochore-microtubule dynamics over time. Specifically, we detail the combination of live-cell super-resolution CH-STED microscopy of microtubule growth events within individual k-fibers and a laser-mediated k-fiber injury/repair assay. These tools provide a direct assessment of microtubule amplification mechanisms within k-fibers in metazoans.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Almeida et al. (2022).1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

A Pandemia Covid-19 é um evento inesperado, imprevisível e gerador de múltiplos desafios e dificuldades aos indivíduos, nos mais variados contextos da sua vida, incluindo a vida académica e a carreira mais geral. Com este estudo pretendeu-se identificar e priorizar as necessidades de apoio psicoeducacional de estudantes universitários, em tempos de pandemia COVID-19. Participaram 261 estudantes portugueses, de ambos os sexos (n = 209, 80,1% mulheres), com idades entre os 18 e os 50 anos (M = 22,17, DP = 4,36), a frequentar cursos de licenciatura (n = 138, 52,9%) e de pós-graduação (123, 47,1%), em diferentes domínios e instituições de ensino superior, com saliência da região norte do país (n = 187, 71,6%). Registou-se maior necessidade de apoio em questões relacionadas com o estudo individual, a avaliação do desempenho, gestão do tempo, a compreensão de interesses e competências, e as escolhas de carreira. Os resultados de uma ANOVA bifatorial indicam um efeito principal do nível académico e um efeito de interação do nível académico e do ciclo de estudos, nas preocupações de aprendizagem. Nos estudantes com média académica superior, são os estudantes de licenciatura quem apresenta mais necessidades de apoio à aprendizagem, quando comparados com os de pós-graduação. Nos estudantes universitários com média académica inferior, registou-se o padrão de resultados inverso. No que toca às modalidades de apoio preferidas, os estudantes registaram maior interesse pelo aconselhamento individual e pelas oficinas. Os resultados deste estudo podem orientar a investigação e intervenções de carreira com estudantes universitários, em contexto pandémico e pós-pandémico.

Bioglasses have been used throughout the past century as a biomaterial in the bone regeneration field. However, recent studies have attempted to use them as a therapeutic material as well, mainly in the treatment of osteosarcomas. The most widely recognized bioglass is the 45S5 Bioglass, invented by Larry Hench et al., which presents higher bioactivity. A possible application of this bioglass in the treatment of osteosarcomas can be accomplished by adding specific ions, such as iron, that will allow the use of magnetic hyperthermia and Fenton reaction as therapeutic mechanisms. In this study, a 45S5 Bioglass containing 10%mol of Fe2O3 was produced using the melt-quenching method. A group of samples was prepared by changing the overall ball milling time, from 1 h up to 48 h, to analyze the effects of iron in the bioactive glass matrix and evaluate the influence of particle size on their physical and biological properties. The studied bioglasses showed no evidence of changes in the amorphous structural nature compared to the 45S5 Bioglass. The data of the impedance spectroscopy study revealed that the addition of Fe2O3 can increase the standard rate constant of the Electro-Fenton reaction, with the sample milled for 12 h showing the most promising results. The reduction in the particle size influenced the cytotoxicity and the bioactivity. The samples with lower particle sizes showed a higher level of cytotoxicity.

Scratching the environment is a natural behaviour that cats use for communication and physical maintenance purposes, however when it is carried out on household furniture it is considered unacceptable for some owners and even grounds for relinquishment of cats. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of FELIWAY® Classic Diffuser in reducing undesirable scratching (scratching vertical surfaces indoors other than the scratching post) in cats. A 28 day, randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled study with a total of 1060 caregiver-cat dyads was conducted. The study contained two groups: the Pheromone Group consisted of caregivers who were given a pheromone diffuser (n = 546) and the Placebo Group consisted of caregivers who were given a placebo diffuser (n = 514). A questionnaire with three subsections was distributed online. The first section, completed by the respondents at day 0, inquired about the cats' daily routines, social and physical environments, behaviour, temperament, and emotional states. The second section filled on day 0, 7, 14, and 28, assessed the Frequency and the Intensity of the undesirable scratching problem and the effectiveness of the product. The last section, filled on the 28th day of the product application, related to the caregivers' opinions about the product and overall outcome. After 28 days the scratching Frequency reduced for 83.5% of the cats in the Pheromone Group and 68.5% for the Placebo Group (p

Introduction: Germinal matrix hemorrhage-intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH-IVH) is the most common form of intracranial hemorrhage in preterm infants. We evaluated risk factors for GMH-IVH in preterm infants born before 32 weeks of gestational age. Secondary outcomes included the characterization of neurodevelopmental (ND) prognosis at 24-36 months of corrected age. Methods: We included infants admitted to our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit between May 2011 and January 2017. A total of 161 infants were enrolled, divided into the GMH-IVH group (n = 40) and control group (n = 121). A secondary cohort included the follow-up group (n = 124) at 24-36 months of corrected age. The association of GMH-IVH with risk factors and ND outcomes was investigated. Results: The incidence of GMH-IVH was 24.8%. Significant risk factors for GMH-IVH were exposure to any resuscitation in the Delivery Room (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 34.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.8-657.5) and a low Apgar score at 5 minutes of life (aOR: 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2-0.9). The incidence of retinopathy of prematurity was significantly higher in the grade I GMH-IVH (p < 0.001) group. Gross motor and locomotion dysfunction were significantly more frequent in the GMH-IVH group (24.1% vs. 4.4%; p = 0.004) as was auditory and language dysfunction (24.1% vs. 7.8%; p = 0.040). GMH-IVH was independently associated with visual impairment (aOR: 21.6; 95% CI: 3.2-145.0). Conclusions: Lower Apgar score at 5 minutes of life and any resuscitation were independent risk factors for GMH-IVH. GMH-IVH was associated with higher ND morbidity. ND prognosis of grade II GMH-IVH was comparable to grade III GMH-IVH.

Isolated fetal ascites is a rare condition and its natural history needs further research. We describe a case of progressive fetal isolated ascites diagnosed at 22 weeks of gestation associated with hyperechogenic bowel in a primiparous woman. Genetic abnormalities, infection and metabolic causes were excluded. An elective C-section was performed at 29 weeks of gestation after no clinical improvement was obtained with paracentesis. After birth, X-ray and ultrasonography showed high-volume ascites and enlarged liver. On the 5th day of life, no meconium had passed and an abdominal X-ray was repeated: pneumoperitoneum was diagnosed. Laparotomy identified intestinal atresia type IIIB associated with meconial peritonitis and a derivative jejunostomy was performed. There were complications caused by late-onset sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis. Reconstruction of jejunostomy was successfully performed on day 114. At 15 months of age, the infant is in good health and has normal psychomotor development.

Hydroxyapatite (HA) promotes excellent bone regeneration in bone-tissue engineering, due to its similarity to bone mineral and its ability to connect to living tissues. These factors promote the osteointegration process. This process can be enhanced by the presence of electrical charges, stored in the HA. Furthermore, several ions can be added to the HA structure to promote specific biological responses, such as magnesium ions. The main objective of this work was to extract hydroxyapatite from sheep femur bones and to study their structural and electrical properties by adding different amounts of magnesium oxide. The thermal and structural characterizations were performed using DTA, XRD, density, Raman spectroscopy and FTIR analysis. The morphology was studied using SEM, and the electrical measurements were registered as a function of frequency and temperature. Results show that: (i) an increase of MgO amount indicates that the solubility of MgO is below 5%wt for heat treatments at 600 °C; (ii) the rise of MgO content increases the capacity for electrical charge storage; (iii) sheep hydroxyapatite presents itself as a natural source of hydroxyapatite, environmentally sustainable and low cost, and promising for applications in regenerative medicine.

Abstract The authors present a new association of two heterozygous TACR3 mutations (p.Arg230His and p.Trp275*) responsible for a clinical trait of normosmic congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in a family.

INTRODUÇÃO: A prevalência da alergia alimentar tem vindo a aumentar nos últimos anos. O seu diagnóstico é difícil, dadas as diferentes apresentações e a existência de inúmeros fatores confundidores. A prova de provocação oral (PPO) é o gold standard para diagnóstico de alergia alimentar, no entanto não é isenta de riscos. Os nossos objetivos foram a caracterização de população submetida a prova de provocação oral a alimentos em uni- dade de Imunoalergologia Pediátrica. Assim como, a avaliação do risco inerente às PPO com alimentos e identificação de fatores de risco que podem levar à necessidade de utilizar cateter periférico. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, retrospetivo de provas de provocação oral com alimentos realizadas numa unidade de Imunoalergologia Pediátrica de um hospital nível II entre janeiro de 2018 e dezembro de 2020. RESULTADOS: Foram analisadas 90 PPO a diferentes alimentos: leite (39), peixe (14), ovo (13), frutos secos (6), fruta fresca (6), marisco (6), moluscos (6), amendoim (3) e cacau (1). As manifestações iniciais de alergia alimentar foram diversas, sendo as mais frequentes: urticária/angioedema (24,4%, n=22) e anafilaxia (21%, n=19). Trinta e dois por- cento das provas de provocação orais foram positivas; 51,7% dos doentes com PPO positiva tinha antecedentes de asma, rinite ou dermatite atópica. Durante a realização da PPO ocorreram 8 anafilaxias, 50% das quais em provas de provocação oral ao leite. CONCLUSÃO: As provas de provocação oral realizadas em ambiente hospitalar com supervisão especializada são seguras, no entanto, existem riscos inerentes à sua realização. Na nossa amostra, cerca de um terço dos doentes teve uma prova de provocação oral positiva, no entanto, não foi possível identificar fatores de risco para a necessidade de utilização de cateter venoso periférico. Poderão ser realizados estudos prospetivos com este objetivo.

Summary: Chromosome segregation in mammals relies on the maturation of a thick bundle of kinetochore-attached microtubules known as k-fiber. How k-fibers mature from initial kinetochore microtubule attachments remains a fundamental question. By combining molecular perturbations and phenotypic analyses in Indian muntjac fibroblasts containing the lowest known diploid chromosome number in mammals (2N = 6) and distinctively large kinetochores, with fixed/live-cell super-resolution coherent-hybrid stimulated emission depletion (CH-STED) nanoscopy and laser microsurgery, we demonstrate a key role for augmin in kinetochore microtubule self-organization and maturation, regardless of pioneer centrosomal microtubules. In doing so, augmin promotes kinetochore and interpolar microtubule turnover and poleward flux. Tracking of microtubule growth events within individual k-fibers reveals a wide angular dispersion, consistent with augmin-mediated branched microtubule nucleation. Augmin depletion reduces the frequency of kinetochore microtubule growth events and hampers efficient repair after acute k-fiber injury by laser microsurgery. Together, these findings underscore the contribution of augmin-mediated microtubule amplification for k-fiber self-organization and maturation in mammals.

The virtual screening of a library of chalcone derivatives led us to the identification of potential new MDM2 ligands. The chalcones with the best docking scores obeying the Lipinski rule of five were subsequently prepared by base-catalyzed aldol reactions. The activity of these compounds as inhibitors of p53–MDM2 interaction was investigated using a yeast-based screening assay. Using this approach two chalcones (3 and 4) were identified as putative small molecule inhibitors of p53–MDM2 interaction. The activity of both chalcones was further investigated in a panel of human tumor cells. Chalcones 3 and 4 revealed a pronounced tumor cell growth inhibitory effect on tumor cell lines. Additionally, chalcone 4 caused alterations in the cell cycle profile, induced apoptosis and increased the levels of p53, p21 and PUMA proteins in NCI-H460 cells. Computational docking studies allowed to predict that, like nutlin-3A (a well-known small-molecule inhibitor of p53–MDM2 interaction), chalcones 3 and 4 bind to the p53-binding site of MDM2. The results here presented will be valuable for the structure-based design of novel and potent p53–MDM2 inhibitors. Keywords: Chalcones, p53–MDM2 interaction inhibitors, In vitro antitumor activity, Docking

Present time has been dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic. People are grieving several non-death related situations: the loss of a job, of a status, of a role, of their life. Restrictive measures and uncertainty about the future makes individuals vulnerable to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Mental health support has been hindered and teams are reinventing themselves to reach people in need. Nevertheless, decompensation of previous psychiatric disorders, increasing levels of depression and anxiety, economical handicaps and fear of the infection, are prompting several cases of COVID-19 related suicides worldwide. Every suicide affects between 5 and 80 individuals, which are known as suicide survivors. Suicide grief is particularly challenging, with rates of complicated grief as high as 40%. Suicide survivors are at increased risk of developing depression, anxiety disorders and of suicidal behaviors. Moreover, feelings of guilt and shame, as well as social stigma, are major obstacles for them to reach form help. This article aims to review the existing literature on COVID-19 related suicides, complicated grief in suicide survivors and highlight modifiable risk factors for both conditions, as well as propose some public health measures to reduce the impact of the pandemic context on self-inflicted harm and its consequences on families, friends and the community. Obstacles to access to mental health support need to be overcome through the use of technology. Technicians should actively approach populations more vulnerable to develop suicidal ideation. Social media have the obligation to provide accurate an non-sensationalistic information. Families and friends should maintain social proximity, despite the need for physical distancing. When a suicide death occurs, police forces and health staff should be prepared to share the news with the family using an empathic and humane approach and providing psychological support. Funerals, memorials and other services should be held as much as possible. Closer contacts should be signalized and closely followed in order to detect the need for specific interventions. Help seeking behaviors should be promoted. Additionally, people should be educated on suicide and its impacts, in order to reduce stigma.

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar possibilidades de restabelecer o poder de ação de pessoas assediadas moralmente no trabalho, com base no referencial psicodramático. Esta proposta se fundamenta em um projeto-piloto de atendimento em grupo a pessoas assediadas moralmente no trabalho, promovido pelo Departamento de Psicologia da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC). O atendimento fez parte das atividades do projeto de extensão "Combate e prevenção ao assédio moral no trabalho para promoção da saúde do trabalhador".

Due to non-linear interactions, the effects of contaminant mixtures on aquatic ecosystems are difficult to assess, especially under temperature rise that will likely exacerbate the complexity of the responses. Yet, under the current climatic crisis, assessing the effects of water contaminants and temperature is paramount to understanding the biological impacts of mixtures of stressors on aquatic ecosystems. Here, we use an ecosystem model followed by global sensitivity analysis (GSA) to prioritize the effects of four single emerging contaminants (ECs) and their mixture, combined with two temperature rise scenarios, on the biomass production of a NE Atlantic estuary. Scenarios ran for 10 years with a time-step of 0.1 days. The results indicate that macroinvertebrate biomass was significantly explained by the effect of each single EC and by their mixture but not by temperature. Globally, the most adverse effects were induced by two ECs and by the mixture of the four ECs, although the sensitivity of macroinvertebrates to the tested scenarios differed. Overall, the present approach is useful to prioritize the effects of stressors and assess the sensitivity of the different trophic groups within food webs, which may be of relevance to support decision making linked to the sustainable management of estuaries and other aquatic systems.

Introduction and Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the neuropsychological performance (NP) of adolescents and young adults with congenital heart disease (CHD), comparing them with a group of healthy controls, to determine whether there are different neurocognitive phenotypes in CHD, and to identify their relation to sociodemographic, neonatal, clinical and psychological adjustment variables. Methods: A total of 217 CHD patients (116 male, aged 15.73±2.68 years) and 80 controls (35 male, age 16.76±2.22 years) underwent an extensive neuropsychological assessment and analysis of psychological adjustment. Results: CHD patients had significantly poorer NP than healthy controls in all neurocognitive domains. Three different phenotypes of NP in CHD patients were identified: non-impaired (NI), moderately impaired (MI) and globally impaired (GI). They differed in all dimensions of NP. The GI cluster showed fewer years of schooling (p=0.025) and lower neonatal indicators such as head circumference (p=0.019), 1-min Apgar score (p=0.006), birth weight (p=0.05) and length (p=0.034) than the NI cluster. In the MI and GI clusters, there were more cyanotic forms of disease, including tetralogy of Fallot and transposition of the great arteries. The GI cluster presented more difficulties with psychological adjustment, including social (p=0.038), attention (p=0.001) and aggressive (p=0.003) problems. Conclusions: CHD patients have poorer NP than controls. NP in the CHD group can be classified in three clusters that reflect different levels of neuropsychological functioning, which is sensitive to social, neonatal and psychological adjustment variables. Resumo: Introdução e objetivos: Os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar o desempenho neuropsicológico (DN) de adolescentes e jovens adultos com Cardiopatia Congénita (CC), comparando-os com um grupo de controlos saudáveis e determinar se existem diferentes fenótipos neurocognitivos na CC, tentando identificar a sua relação com variáveis demográficas, neonatais, clínicas e de ajustamento psicológico. Métodos: 217 pacientes com CC (116 de sexo masculino, 15,73 anos ± 2,68) e 80 controlos (35 de sexo masculino, 16,76 anos ± 2,22) foram submetidos a uma avaliação neuropsicológica extensa e a uma avaliação de ajustamento psicológico. Resultados: Os pacientes com CC apresentaram um DN significativamente pior do que os controlos saudáveis em todos os domínios neurocognitivos. Identificamos três fenótipos: não afetado (NA), moderadamente afetado (MA) e globalmente afetado (GA), diferentes em todas as dimensões de DN. O grupo GA apresentava menos anos de escolaridade (p = 0,025) e piores indicadores neonatais, como perímetro cefálico (p = 0,019), Apgar 1 (p = 0,006), peso ao nascer (p = 0,05) e comprimento (p = 0,034) quando comparado com o cluster NA. Nos grupos MA e GA, havia mais formas cianóticas de doença, incluindo Tetralogia de Fallot e Transposição das Grandes Artérias. O cluster GA apresentava mais problemas de ajustamento psicológico, problemas sociais (p = 0,038), de atenção (p = 0,001) e comportamentos agressivos (p = 0,003). Conclusões: Os pacientes com CC têm pior DN do que os controlos. O DN nos doentes com CC pode ser classificado em três clusters que refletem diferentes níveis de funcionamento neuropsicológico, sensível às variáveis neonatais e de ajustamento psicológico. Keywords: Congenital heart defects, Neurodevelopmental disabilities, Mental health, Quality of life, Psychosocial adjustment, Psychiatric morbidity, Palavras-chave: Cardiopatia congénita, Deficiências neurodesenvolvimentais, Saúde mental, Qualidade de vida, Ajustamento psicossocial, Morbidade psiquiátrica

Resumen: Introducción: En Portugal los datos del papel de Der p 1 y Der p 2 en niños con alergia al ácaro del polvo son escasos. La inmunoterapia específica (IE) con alérgenos es el único tratamiento que mejora los síntomas, reduce la necesidad de terapia farmacológica y modifica la historia natural de la enfermedad. Con este trabajo, los autores estudian la epidemiología local y buscan aclarar si el análisis molecular de los alérgenos principales es una ventaja para decidir y/o modificar la decisión de iniciar IE en niños con indicación clínica y sensibilizados a Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de los niños con asma y/o rinitis. Período de estudio: enero de 2013 a diciembre de 2016. Criterios de inclusión: 1) prick-test positivo a Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus; y 2) enfermedad clínicamente relevante bajo tratamiento. Los valores de Der p 1 y Der p 2 ≥ 0,35kUA/l fueron considerados positivos. La significación estadística se estableció en p

Introduction: In Portugal, data on the role of Der p 1 and Der p 2 in patients with house dust mite (HDM) allergy are scarce. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (sIT) is the only treatment that improves symptoms, reduces the need for pharmacological therapy and modifies the natural history of the disease. With this study, the authors aim to understand the local epidemiology and to clarify if the molecular assay of major allergens is advantageous in deciding and/or modifying the decision to initiate sIT in children with clinical indication which are sensitized to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. Methods: Retrospective study with analysis of patients with asthma and/or rhinitis. Study period: January/2013–December/2016. Inclusion criteria: 1) positive prick-test to D. pteronyssinus; and 2) clinically relevant disease under treatment. Assay Der p 1 and Der p 2 values ≥0.35 kUA/L were considered positive. Statistical significance was set at p

Aerosol pollution from shipping contributes to cooling but also leads to premature mortality and morbidity. Here the authors combine emission inventories, atmospheric models and health risk functions to show how cleaner marine fuels will reduce premature deaths and childhood asthma but results in larger warming.

The Student Career Construction Inventory measures students' adapting behaviors. The present study validates this inventory in a sample of 314 Portuguese college students. Measurement confirmatory factorial analysis indicates better fit for the 18-items measurement model, comparing to the 25-items model. Reliability and criterion-related analyses evidence the inventory validity and use. Structural model path analysis shows significant relations between measures of adaptability, adapting behaviors, and vocational identity results. This indicates that self-regulatory resources may drive career decidedness. While further longitudinal studies are needed to test the inventory and model's predictive validity, our results provide developments to the literature on career measurements.

Gastric mucosal heterotopia has been described in all levels of the gastrointestinal tract. Its occurrence in the rectum is uncommon. We report the case of a 4-year-old boy referred to Pediatric Gastroenterology for intermittent rectal bleeding for the past 2 years. Total ileocolonoscopy revealed a flat, well-circumscribed lesion of 4 cm, with elevated margins, localized at 10 cm from the anal verge. Histologic examination showed typical gastric mucosa of the oxyntic type. Treatment with proton pump inhibitors was started without resolution of the symptoms and, therefore, an endoscopic mucosal resection was performed. Heterotopic gastric mucosa represents a rare cause of rectal bleeding in children and endoscopic evaluation is fundamental for diagnosis. Although not usually performed in pediatric ages, endoscopic mucosectomy allows complete resolution of the problem avoiding surgery.

As políticas organizacionais de prevenção ao assédio moral são quase incipientes e raras e, muitas vezes, ficam apenas na prescrição legal devido à falta de conhecimento e/ou desinteresse em sua aplicação. Diante desta perspectiva, com objetivo de promover ações preventivas e de combate ao assédio moral junto às instituições, empresários, trabalhadores e membros da sociedade civil, de modo a promover a saúde do trabalhador, este trabalho é um relato de experiência que visa apresentar e descrever as ações de um projeto de extensão desenvolvido no Programa de Extensão Universitário (ProExt) entre 2011 e 2012. As ações mais representativas foram a realização do II Seminário Catarinense de Prevenção ao Assédio Moral no Trabalho; a construção de uma cartilha informativa e de um site sobre assédio moral com o objetivo de divulgar informações sobre o fenômeno; e o atendimento em grupo a assediados moralmente. Por fim, compreende-se que a divulgação das ações e os resultados alcançados pelo Projeto são importantes tanto cientificamente quanto socialmente, pois a informação é um instrumento para prevenir e combater a violência, bem como o conhecimento dessas medidas pode auxiliar na aplicação das mesmas em outros contextos.

In our quest to discover antitumor agents with novel mechanisms of action, our strategyconcerned multiple molecular modifications in a chemical core. [...]

Abstract Communication about adoption is a family interaction process which is more than the simple exchange of information. Adoption communication can be characterized in terms of the level of openness of family conversations regarding the child’s past and the degree of the family’s adoption social disclosure. The objective of this study is to explore the process of adoption communication openness in Portuguese adoptive families by identifying the impact of variables related to the adoption process, the adoptive parenting and the adoptee. One hundred twenty five parents of children aged 3 to 15, who were adopted on average 4 years ago, participated in this study. Data was collected during home visits using the Parents Adoption Process Interview. A cluster analysis identified three different groups of families according to the level of adoption communication openness within the family and outside. The findings also showed that the process of the adoption communication openness started when parents decided to adopt, developed in parent-child interaction and was susceptible to change under professional intervention. The relevance of training given to prospective adopters and of professional practice based on scientific evidence is highlighted.

Neste estudo, foi estimada a prevalência da infecção pelo HTLV 1/2 em gestantes no Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, por meio das técnicas ELISA, Western Blot e PCR, em amostras de sangue obtidas por punção venosa periférica. Foram examinadas 116.689 gestantes, sendo diagnosticadas 153 infectadas pelo HTLV 1/2, com prevalência de 0,13%. Deste total, 133 (86,9%) eram do tipo 1 e 20 (11,1%) do tipo 2. Das 153 gestantes, 73,2% eram negras, pardas ou índias, cerca de 90% tinham atividades domésticas e 75,8% (116/153) tinham 7 anos ou menos de escolaridade. As 153 gestantes tiveram 172 gestações, durante o período do estudo, sendo que 164 tiveram acompanhamento. Das gestações acompanhadas, 6,7% (11/164) evoluíram para aborto, 26,8% (41/153) gestantes relataram abortos anteriores, sendo que 31,7% (13/41) apresentaram mais de dois abortos. Co-morbidades foram detectadas em 17% (26/153) sendo 3,3% (5/153) com HIV (pIn this study, the prevalence of HTLV 1/2 infection among pregnant women in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul was estimated by means of the ELISA, Western Blot and PCR techniques, in blood samples collected by peripheral venous puncture. 116,689 pregnant women were examined and 153 were diagnosed as presenting HTLV 1/2 infection, with prevalence of 0.13%. Among these 153 pregnant women, 133 (86.9%) had type 1 and 20 (11.1%) had type 2; 73.2% were black, brown or indigenous; about 90% performed domestic activities; and 75.8% (116/153) had been to school for seven years or less. The 153 pregnant women had 172 pregnancies during the study period and 164 pregnancies were followed. Out of pregnancies that were followed, 6.7% (11/164) evolved to abortion, 26.8% (41/153) reported previous abortions and 31.7% (13/41) had had more than two abortions. Comorbidities were found in 17% (26/153), among whom 3.3% (5/153) had HIV (p

Recent findings indicate that different Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) interfere with lipid metabolic pathways in mammals and promote fat accumulation, a previously unknown site of action for these compounds. The antifoulant and environmental pollutant tributyltin (TBT), which causes imposex in gastropod snails, induces an "obesogenic" phenotype in mammals, through the activation of the nuclear receptors retinoid X receptor (RXR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). In teleosts, the effects of TBT on the lipid metabolism are poorly understood, particularly following exposure to low, environmental concentrations. In this context, the present work shows that exposure of zebrafish to 10 and 50 ng/L of TBT (as Sn) from pre-hatch to 9 months of age alters the body weight, condition factor, hepatosomatic index and hepatic triglycerides in a gender and dose related manner. Furthermore, TBT modulated the transcription of key lipid regulating factors and enzymes involved in adipogenesis, lipogenesis, glucocorticoid metabolism, growth and development in the brain and liver of exposed fish, revealing sexual dimorphic effects in the latter. Overall, the present study shows that the model mammalian obesogen TBT interferes with triglyceride accumulation and the transcriptional regulation of lipid metabolism in zebrafish and indentifies the brain lipogenic transcription profile of fish as a new target of this compound.

Food allergy affects many young children and tree nut allergy is accountable for a large number of severe, life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. Cross-reactivity can occur not only with foods that are in the same biological family but also between certain fruits or vegetables and latex (latex–fruit syndrome). We present the case of a previous healthy 5-year-old girl referred to Pediatric/Allergology Consultation after an episode of sialorrhea, perioral urticarial rash, tongue swelling, and immediate vomiting after oral contact with cashew nut. Investigation revealed the following: positive skin prick test to walnut and positive specific IgE for cashew nut, walnut, hazelnut, and almond. ImmunoCAP ISAC was positive for storage proteins of walnut and hazelnut (Jug r 1 e Cor a 9) and for a specific allergen of latex (Hev b 3). It is interesting that anaphylaxis was the first manifestation of allergy in a healthy child. Also, we emphasize the importance to latex sensitization with potential future clinical relevance and the sensitization to Hev b 3, which is not documented to be involved in cross-reactivity phenomena/latex–fruit syndrome or present in an otherwise healthy child.

Background. During the last H1N1 pandemic has emerged the importance of crisis communication as an essential part of health crisis management. The Project aims specifically to improve the understanding of crisis communication dynamics and effective tools and to allow public health institutions to communicate better with the public during health emergencies.Design and Methods. The Project will perform different activities: i) state of the art review; ii) identification of key stakeholders; iii) communicational analysis performed using data collected on stakeholder communication activities and their outcomes considering the lessons learnt from the analysis of the reasons for differing public reactions during pandemics; iv) improvement of the existing guidelines; v) development of Web 2.0 tools as web-platform and feed service and implementation of impact assessment algorithms; vi) organization of exercises and training on this issues.Expected impact of the study for public health. In the context of health security policies at an EU level, the project aims to find a common and innovative approach to health crisis communication that was displayed by differing reactions to the H1N1 pandemic policies. The focus on new social media tools aims to enhance the role of e-health, and the project aims to use these tools in the specific field of health institutions and citizens. The development of Web 2.0 tools for health crisis communication will allow an effective two-way exchange of information between public health institutions and citizens. An effective communication strategy will increase population compliance with public health recommendations.

Objective. To assess the concentration of progesterone (PRs) and oestrogen (ORs) receptors of myometrium of full-term pregnant women in the myometrium of lower segment of the uterus in relationship with presence or absence of labour. Methods. This was a cross-sectional prospective study with 21 pregnant women, being 6 in labour (Group I) and 15 without labour (Group II). The biopsy of myometrium was realized during caesarian section, and the excised tissue was stained using immunohistochemical techniques for the quantification of the receptors, and with the aid of image-analysis software, the numbers of receptors for each hormone were determined spectrophotometrically. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the pregnant women in each study group with respect to the numbers of ORs and PRs. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the concentration of ORs and PRs in each group separately. Results. The mean of gestational age was 39 weeks, (range, 37 to 41 weeks). The medians of PRs and ORs in pregnant women in labour (Group I) were 29.3 (range, 24.6–30.2) and 32.3 (range, 22.9–49.0), respectively. The medians of PRs and ORs in pregnant women without labour (Group II) were 43.6 (range, 23.6–70) and 43.9 (range, 18.3–62.6), respectively. We did not observe significant differences of the number of ORs and PRs in both groups ( and 0.37, resp.). The number of ORs was statistically more than that of PRs in Group II (Z calculated = 16.00). Conclusion. The concentrations of PRs and ORs were similar in the myometrium of the lower uterine segment of pregnant women during and without labour, but the concentration of ORs was more than that of PRs in the myometrium of the lower uterine segment of pregnant women without labour.

Ozone air pollution is identified as one of the main threats bearing upon human health and ecosystems, with 25 000 deaths in 2005 attributed to surface ozone in Europe (IIASA 2013 TSAP Report #10). In addition, there is a concern that climate change could negate ozone pollution mitigation strategies, making them insufficient over the long run and jeopardising chances to meet the long term objective set by the European Union Directive of 2008 ( Directive 2008/50/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 ) (60 ppbv, daily maximum). This effect has been termed the ozone climate penalty. One way of assessing this climate penalty is by driving chemistry-transport models with future climate projections while holding the ozone precursor emissions constant (although the climate penalty may also be influenced by changes in emission of precursors). Here we present an analysis of the robustness of the climate penalty in Europe across time periods and scenarios by analysing the databases underlying 11 articles published on the topic since 2007, i.e. a total of 25 model projections. This substantial body of literature has never been explored to assess the uncertainty and robustness of the climate ozone penalty because of the use of different scenarios, time periods and ozone metrics. Despite the variability of model design and setup in this database of 25 model projection, the present meta-analysis demonstrates the significance and robustness of the impact of climate change on European surface ozone with a latitudinal gradient from a penalty bearing upon large parts of continental Europe and a benefit over the North Atlantic region of the domain. Future climate scenarios present a penalty for summertime (JJA) surface ozone by the end of the century (2071–2100) of at most 5 ppbv. Over European land surfaces, the 95% confidence interval of JJA ozone change is [0.44; 0.64] and [0.99; 1.50] ppbv for the 2041–2070 and 2071–2100 time windows, respectively.

Introduction: Despite being a natural feline behavior, scratching can become undesirable from a human perspective when directed at household items. This complex behavior can stem from various motivations, ranging from individual cat characteristics to environmental factors. This study investigates the factors influencing the increased level of undesirable scratching behavior in domestic cats, considering both cat-related and environmental aspects. Methods: Data from 1,211 cats were collected for this study. An online questionnaire comprising three sections was utilized. The first section gathered caregiver demographics, while the subsequent section examined aspects of cats' daily routines, social interactions, environments, behaviours, and temperaments. The final section assessed the frequency and intensity of undesirable scratching behavior in cats. Scratching behavior was evaluated based on a combined scratching index. Results: The study suggests that the presence of a child may be associated with scratching episodes in the home environment. Additionally, factors such as play duration, playfulness, and nocturnal activity were identified as significant contributors to heightened scratching levels (p ≤ 0.05). Aggressiveness and disruptiveness also played significant roles in increased scratching behavior (p ≤ 0.05). The location of scratching posts emerged as a significant factor, with posts placed in areas frequented by the cat being more effective in redirecting scratching behavior (p ≤ 0.05). Discussion: This study reveals several significant associations between cat characteristics, nocturnal activity and play, as well as the environment. It underscores the multifaceted nature of undesirable scratching behavior and emphasizes the importance of comprehensively understanding both the individual characteristics of the cat and its environment to effectively address this behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]