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Abstract Recombinant multiepitope proteins (RMPs) are a promising alternative for application in diagnostic tests and, given their wide application in the most diverse diseases, this review article aims to survey the use of these antigens for diagnosis, as well as discuss the main points surrounding these antigens. RMPs usually consisting of linear, immunodominant, and phylogenetically conserved epitopes, has been applied in the experimental diagnosis of various human and animal diseases, such as leishmaniasis, brucellosis, cysticercosis, Chagas disease, hepatitis, leptospirosis, leprosy, filariasis, schistosomiasis, dengue, and COVID-19. The synthetic genes for these epitopes are joined to code a single RMP, either with spacers or fused, with different biochemical properties. The epitopes’ high density within the RMPs contributes to a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. The RMPs can also sidestep the need for multiple peptide synthesis or multiple recombinant proteins, reducing costs and enhancing the standardization conditions for immunoassays. Methods such as bioinformatics and circular dichroism have been widely applied in the development of new RMPs, helping to guide their construction and better understand their structure. Several RMPs have been expressed, mainly using the Escherichia coli expression system, highlighting the importance of these cells in the biotechnological field. In fact, technological advances in this area, offering a wide range of different strains to be used, make these cells the most widely used expression platform. RMPs have been experimentally used to diagnose a broad range of illnesses in the laboratory, suggesting they could also be useful for accurate diagnoses commercially. On this point, the RMP method offers a tempting substitute for the production of promising antigens used to assemble commercial diagnostic kits.

This study delves into how motivational sessions and brief interventions impact students’ alcohol consumption, highlighting the vital role of nurses in fostering positive behavioural changes. The study aims to discern the effects of these interventions, starting with a pre-and post-intervention setup involving 62 students from a private school in northern Portugal. The intervention comprised a session delivered by school and mental health nurses, utilizing the motivational intervention and FRAMES method and a poster offering feedback on alcohol consumption scores. The results indicated that females tended to drink for fewer days and engage in less binge drinking than males. Furthermore, the intervention hinted at a reduction in the number of heavy drinking days. This study underscores the importance of including healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in delivering brief interventions within school settings. The findings carry weight for crafting evidence-based interventions to cultivate healthier adolescent behaviours and enhance overall well-being.

Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, is an important public health problem, occurring mainly in Latin America. The disease has a major social and economical effect, negatively impacting the life of the infected individuals, and bringing great costs to public health. An early and accurate diagnosis is essential for administration of early treatment. In addition, prognostic tests may aid disease management, decreasing hospitalization costs. However, the serological diagnostic scenario for CD still faces several challenges, making the development of new diagnostic kits a pressing matter. Facing this scenario, several researchers have expanded efforts in developing and testing new antigens, such as recombinant proteins and recombinant multiepitope proteins, with promising results. These recombinant antigens offer several advantages, such as improved sensitivity and specificity, in addition to facilitated scaling. Also, it has been possible to observe a rising number of studies using ELISA and point-of-care platforms, employing these antigens in the past few years. Among them, recombinant proteins were the most applied antigens, demonstrating great capacity to discriminate between positive and negative samples. Although fewer in number, recombinant multiepitope proteins also demonstrated an improved diagnostic performance. Indeed, a great number of studies employing these antigens showed sensitivity and specificity values above 90%, greatly impacting diagnostic accuracy. Nevertheless, despite the good results found, it is still possible to observe some bottlenecks in the development of new antigens, such as the scarcity of tests with sera from the acute phase and the variability of results in different geographic areas. In this sense, aiming to contribute to control and health programs, the continuous search for a more accurate serological diagnosis is essential, both for the acute and chronic phases of the disease.

Cardiotonic steroids are known to bind to Na+/K+-ATPase and regulate several biological processes, including the immune response. The synthetic cardiotonic steroid γ-Benzylidene Digoxin 8 (BD-8) is emerging as a promising immunomodulatory molecule, although it has remained largely unexplored. Therefore, we tested the immunomodulatory potential of BD-8 both in vitro and in vivo. Hence, primary mouse macrophages were incubated with combinations of BD-8 and the pro-inflammatory fungal protein zymosan (ZYM). Nitric oxide (NO) production was determined by Griess reagent and cytokines production was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), reactive oxygen species (ROS), p-nuclear factor kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65), p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK), and p-p38 were evaluated by flow cytometry. Macrophages exposed to BD-8 displayed reduced phagocytic activity, NO levels, and production of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β induced by ZYM. Furthermore, BD-8 diminished the expression of iNOS and phosphorylation of NF-κB p65, ERK, and p38. Additionally, BD-8 exhibited anti-inflammatory capacity in vivo in a carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema model. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the anti-inflammatory activity of BD-8 and further reinforce the potential of cardiotonic steroids and their derivatives as immunomodulatory molecules.

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of incorporating olive cake into the diet of indigenous Bísaro pigs on the quality of processed meat products. To this end, loins and “cachaços” were processed using a standardized manufacturing flowchart to produce dry-cured products. The two products were manufactured using the same formulation, ingredients, and curing process. Concerning the physicochemical composition, there were significant differences between the two products for the parameters of aw (p < 0.001), moisture (p < 0.001), total fat (p < 0.001), protein (p < 0.001), and haem pigments (p < 0.001). The diet significantly impacted the NaCl content (p < 0.05). However, neither the product nor the diet affected the fractions of saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), or polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (p > 0.05). However, a significant difference was observed for n-3 (p < 0.05). Adding olive cake increased these fatty acids, and the diet containing 25% centrifuged olive cake showed the highest levels for both products. Compared with the control, the diets containing olive cake had a higher content of n-3 fatty acids, resulting in a lower PUFA n-6/n-3 ratio (p < 0.01).

The purpose of this study was to assess the following effects: (1) the inclusion of olive in the animal’s diet on the dry-cured shoulder; (2) the effect of curing on three different muscles (infraspinatus, supraspinatus, and subscapular); (3) the effect of different curing times (fresh shoulder, 6 months curing, and 12 months curing). For this purpose, forty shoulders were used, followed by a cold nitrite-free curing process with controlled humidity and temperature, according to the flowchart of a company that implements highly stringent standards in terms of food safety and quality. Samples were evaluated for their physicochemical composition and lipid profile. All the physicochemical composition parameters were significantly different (p < 0.001) in the three muscles studied. As might be expected, the curing times from the fresh product to the final product were also significantly different for all the parameters studied in this work. Regarding the inclusion of olive cake, it was found that treatment with a base diet + 10% exhausted olive cake (T4) showed higher levels for the parameters NaCl, collagen, and total fat. As for the fatty acid profile, in general, the olive did not influence the final product. On the other hand, we found that the type of muscle and the curing time of the cured shoulder had a significant influence on the fatty acid profile. We should also point out that there are significant differences in the interaction between curing time and muscle, particularly in saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as well as the lipid quality indices. Canonical discriminant analysis is viable for evaluating the evolution of the curing process, discriminating and classifying curing times, and evaluating the muscles of the Bísaro pork shoulder. Also, the introduction of olive cake into the animal diet does not affect the final product obtained.

The aims of this study were to describe and compare the meat quality characteristics of male and female kids from the “Serrana” and “Preta de Montesinho” breeds certified as “Cabrito Transmontano” and reinforce the performance of near-infrared reflectance (NIR) spectra in predicting these quality characteristics and discriminating among breeds. Samples of Longissimus thoracis (n = 32; sixteen per breed; eight males and eight females) were used. Breed significantly affected meat quality characteristics, with only color and fatty acid (FA) (C12:0) being influenced by sex. The meat of the “Serrana” breed proved to be more tender than that of the “Preta de Montesinho”. However, the meat from the “Preta de Montesinho” breed showed higher intramuscular fat content and was lighter than that from the “Serrana” breed, which favors its quality of color and juiciness. The use of NIR with the linear support vector machine regression (SVMR) classification model demonstrated its capability to quantify meat quality characteristics such as pH, CIELab color, protein, moisture, ash, fat, texture, water-holding capacity, and lipid profile. Discriminant analysis was performed by dividing the sample spectra into calibration sets (75 percent) and prediction sets (25 percent) and applying the Kennard–Stone algorithm to the spectra. This resulted in 100% correct classifications with the training data and 96.7% accuracy with the test data. The test data showed acceptable estimation models with R2 > 0.99.

Ouabain (OUA) is a cardiotonic steroid with an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory role in different experimental models. Currently, the potential antineoplastic effect of OUA has been studied, however, research is needed to better understand OUA role during tumor development. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the OUA effects on Ehrlich tumor (ET) development in vitro and in vivo. To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of OUA on ET in vitro the cells were incubated with different concentrations of OUA during 24h and 48h and our results showed that only the [1000 ?M] decreased the number and viability of ET cells in the two analyzed times. To study the OUA effects on ET in vivo, Swiss mice were pretreated with 0.56 mg/kg of OUA intraperitoneally (i.p.) for three consecutive days. To develop ET in the solid form, one hour after the last day of pretreatment, ET cells were inoculated subcutaneously into the footpad and the animals were monitored for 13 days. To develop the ascitic form, ET cells were inoculated (i.p.) and the animals were monitored for 3 days. OUA was able to reduce the thickness and weight of the tumor paw, in addition to reduce the weight of the popliteal lymph node. In the ascitic tumor, OUA reduced the number of neutrophils and macrophages and increased the lymphocytes in the peritoneum. Thus, we demonstrated that OUA affects ET development both in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest a new perspective in the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and a possible anti-cancer role of ouabain and brings new concepts about the pathophysiological role of this substance.

Abstract Objective To determine the effect of sustained natural apophyseal glide (SNAG) on Flexion Rotation Test, pain intensity, and functionality in subjects with Cervicogenic Headache (CH). Methods The research was conducted on five computerized databases PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, PEDro, Lilacs, and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), using the keywords combination: (sustained natural apophyseal glide OR SNAG OR joint mobilization OR Mulligan) AND (cervicogenic headache) according to PRISMA guidelines. The methodological quality of the included studies was analyzed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Results Eight articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The selected studies had a methodological quality of 6.6/10 on the PEDro scale and included a total of 357 participants. The SNAG significantly improved pain, Flexion Rotation Test and reduced functional symptoms. Conclusion The available evidence suggests that SNAG may be a relevant intervention for CH.

Introdução: O herpes zoster resulta da reativação do vírus varicela-zoster (VVZ) após infeção primária (varicela). O herpes zoster oftálmico ocorre quando há reativação do VVZ a envolver o ramo oftálmico do nervo trigémio e condiciona um maior risco de desenvolvimento de complicações graves. Descrição do caso: O presente caso aborda um homem de 74 anos que recorre à Unidade de Saúde Familiar por quadro compatível com herpes zoster oftálmico e que, ao exame objetivo, apresentava lesões vesiculares ao nível da extremidade nasal – sinal de Hutchinson. A presença deste sinal correlaciona-se com o envolvimento do nervo nasociliar e encontra-se associado a um maior risco de complicações oculares. Comentário: Este caso realça a importância do exame objetivo completo, por vezes com necessidade de avaliação oftalmológica urgente perante a suspeita de herpes zoster oftálmico.

This study involved a comprehensive examination of sensory attributes in dry-cured Bísaro loins, including odor, androsterone, scatol, lean color, fat color, hardness, juiciness, chewiness, flavor intensity and flavor persistence. An analysis of 40 samples revealed a wide variation in these attributes, ensuring a robust margin for multivariate calibration purposes. The respective near-infrared (NIR) spectra unveiled distinct peaks associated with significant components, such as proteins, lipids and water. Support vector regression (SVR) models were methodically calibrated for all sensory attributes, with optimal results using multiplicative scattering correction pre-treatment, MinMax normalization and the radial base kernel (non-linear SVR model). This process involved partitioning the data into calibration (67%) and prediction (33%) subsets using the SPXY algorithm. The model parameters were optimized via a hybrid algorithm based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) to effectively minimize the root-mean-square error (RMSECV) derived from five-fold cross-validation and ensure the attainment of optimal model performance and predictive accuracy. The predictive models exhibited acceptable results, characterized by R-squared values close to 1 (0.9616–0.9955) and low RMSE values (0.0400–0.1031). The prediction set’s relative standard deviation (RSD) remained under 5%. Comparisons with prior research revealed significant improvements in prediction accuracy, particularly when considering attributes like pig meat aroma, hardness, fat color and flavor intensity. This research underscores the potential of advanced analytical techniques to improve the precision of sensory evaluations in food quality assessment. Such advancements have the potential to benefit both the research community and the meat industry by closely aligning their practices with consumer preferences and expectations.

Abstract Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging arbovirus associated with neurological disorders. Currently, no specific vaccines or antivirals are available to treat the ZIKV infection. Ouabain, a cardiotonic steroid known as Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitor, has been previously described as an immunomodulatory substance by our group. Here, we evaluated for the first time the antiviral activity of this promising substance against a Brazilian ZIKV strain. Vero cells were treated with different concentrations of ouabain before and after the infection with ZIKV. The antiviral effect was evaluated by the TCID50 method and RT-qPCR. Ouabain presented a dose-dependent inhibitory effect against ZIKV, mainly when added post infection. The reduction of infectious virus was accompanied by a decrease in ZIKV RNA levels, suggesting that the mechanism of ZIKV inhibition by ouabain occurred at the replication step. In addition, our in silico data demonstrated a conformational stability and favorable binding free energy of ouabain in the biding sites of the NS5-RdRp and NS3-helicase proteins, which could be related to its mechanism of action. Taken together, these data demonstrate the antiviral activity of ouabain against a Brazilian ZIKV strain and evidence the potential of cardiotonic steroids as promising antiviral agents.

Abstract The chronic inflammatory process that characterizes inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is mainly driven by T-cell response to microbial and environmental antigens. Psychological stress is a potential trigger of clinical flares of IBD, and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is involved in T-cell recruitment. Hence, stress impact and the absence of sphingosine kinase 2 (Sphk2), an enzyme of S1P metabolism, were evaluated in the colon of mice after sub-chronic stress exposure. Here, we show that sub-chronic stress increased S1P in the mouse colon, possibly due to a decrease in its degradation enzymes and Sphk2. S1P accumulation could lead to inflammation and immune dysregulation reflected by upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway, inhibition of anti-inflammatory mechanisms, cytokine-expression profile towards a T-helper lymphocyte 17 (Th17) polarization, plasmacytosis, decrease in IgA+ lymphoid lineage cells (CD45+)/B cells/plasmablasts, and increase in IgM+ B cells. Stress also enhanced intestinal permeability. Sphk2 knockout mice presented a cytokine-expression profile towards a boosted Th17 response, lower expression of claudin 3,4,7,8, and structural abnormalities in the colon. Intestinal pathophysiology should consider stress and S1P as modulators of the immune response. S1P-based drugs, including Sphk2 potentiation, represent a promising approach to treat IBD.

Objetivo: descrever a evolução da prevalência do excesso de peso em adultos e as políticas para o seu enfrentamento no Brasil. Método: estudo ecológico, transversal, descritivo, analítico e epidemiológico observacional de abordagem quantitativa, utilizando a base de dados do Sistema de fatores de risco para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis por inquérito telefônico, nos anos 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015 e 2018. Resultados: no período pesquisado, houve um aumento constante na prevalência de excesso de peso em todos os grupos. Conclusão: a obesidade é crescente em todas as regiões do país, em ambos os sexos, com tendência para afetar mais o sexo feminino. Apesar de o governo brasileiro apresentar políticas públicas nessa perspectiva de enfrentamento da epidemia de obesidade, ela ainda é uma realidade que evolui ao longo do tempo.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of exercise order in multicomponent training (MCT) on the maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) of older women. A total of 91 older women, ranging in age from 60 to 85 years, were randomly assigned to either Group A or Group B. Group A performed a warm up followed by aerobic training and resistance training, whereas Group B followed a warm up followed by resistance training and aerobic training. A control group (CG) did not engage in any exercise interventions. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA for between-group comparisons, and ANOVA was used for repeated measures. The results revealed that Group A demonstrated significant increases in MVC for knee extensors (KEs) between M1 and M3 (p < 0.001) and between M2 and M3 (p < 0.001). Similarly, Group A exhibited significant increases in MVC for knee flexors (KFs) between M1 and M3 (p = 0.001) and between M2 and M3 (p < 0.001). Both Group A and Group B demonstrated significant increases in MVC for elbow flexors (EFs) between M1 and M3 (p < 0.001). Furthermore, Group B showed a significant increase in hand grip strength (HGS) between M1 and M3 (p < 0.001). Overall, the findings suggest that initiating MCT with aerobic training followed by resistance training is the most effective approach for improving muscle strength in older women.

This study was conducted to determine the effects of different types of olive cake in the basal diet of Bísaro pigs on the volatile compounds and sensory characteristics of dry-cured loin and “cachaço”. A total of 40 Bísaro breed animals were allocated to four treatments, along with a control group (T1—control, T2—crude olive cake, T3—centrifugation two phases, T4—exhausted, and T5—exhausted with 1% of olive). Various extraction methods (centrifugation, pressing, and exhaustion) were employed for the olive cake used. Furthermore, the extracted olive cake was supplemented with 1% olive oil. Eighty compounds were identified and grouped into eight chemical classes: hydrocarbons, aldehydes, esters, alcohols, ketones, acids, furans, and other compounds. Aldehydes and alcohols were the major groups of compounds, representing 57.06–66.07% and 68.67–75.61% for the loin and “cachaço”, respectively. There were no significant differences between treatments for any of the volatile compounds identified. The major aldehydes were hexanal, heptanal, pentanal, and propanal. These compounds were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in “cachaço”. This significant difference between the two types of dry-cured products was directly related to the amount of total fat content. The major alcohols were 2.3-butanediol, 1-octen-3-ol, 1-butanol, 3-methyl, 1-hexanol, benzyl-alcohol, and glycidol. Except for compounds 2,3-butanediol and benzyl-alcohol, the majority in this group were significantly different in terms of the type of dry-cured product. As for the sensory evaluation, for both dry-cured products, the trained tasters did not detect significant differences between the different treatments. The results showed that the olive cake obtained by different methods of oil extraction did not negatively affect the sensory and volatile components of the processed meat products; thus, they maintained their appeal to the consumer.

Triturated Moringa oleifera seeds have components that adsorb recalcitrant indigo carmine dye. Coagulating proteins known as lectins (carbohydrate-binding proteins) have already been purified from the powder of these seeds, in milligram amounts. The coagulant lectin from M. oleifera seeds (cMoL) was characterized by potentiometry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using MOFs, or metal–organic frameworks, of [Cu3(BTC)2(H2O)3]n to immobilize cMoL and construct biosensors. The potentiometric biosensor revealed an increase in the electrochemical potential resulting from the Pt/MOF/cMoL interaction with different concentrations of galactose in the electrolytic medium. The developed aluminum batteries constructed with recycled cans degraded an indigo carmine dye solution; the oxide reduction reactions of the batteries generated Al(OH)3, promoting dye electrocoagulation. Biosensors were used to investigate cMoL interactions with a specific galactose concentration and monitored residual dye. SEM revealed the components of the electrode assembly steps. Cyclic voltammetry showed differentiated redox peaks related to dye residue quantification by cMoL. Electrochemical systems were used to evaluate cMoL interactions with galactose ligands and efficiently degraded dye. Biosensors could be used for lectin characterization and monitoring dye residues in environmental effluents of the textile industry.

A elevada mortalidade em Portugal no que respeita ao AVC, representando 9,9% da mortalidade no ano 2018, segundo o Instituto Nacional de Estatística (2020), impeliu-nos a realizar esta investigação-ação. Este artigo pretende assim apresentar o potencial da reabilitação neuropsicológica, através de uma investigação-ação centrada num individuo com idade avançada (70 anos de idade) avaliado por 5 instrumentos psicométricos TELPI, GDS, MOCA, IFS e BADS queaferem ainteligência pré-morbida,a depressão,asfunçõesexecutivas, atencionais e emocionais, o nível de comprometimento cognitivo, assim como para aferir as dificuldades diárias que emergem fruto de deterioração mental. Concluiu-se que o paciente, apesar do quadro adverso, recuperou as capacidades deterioradas, principalmente por intermédio das estratégias metacognitivas de autoverbalização, tendo-se revelado importante o acolhimento e estabelecimento de uma relação empática entre a equipa clinica, o paciente e sua família, bem como o seu envolvimento assertivo e proativo durante o processo de reabilitação neuropsicológica.

Psychological stress can be viewed as occurring when demands exceed an individual's adaptive capacity. Burnout is an occupational syndrome defined by three dimensions, emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and feelings of low personal accomplishment. Factors related to the nature of the physiotherapy practice, in which health care is provided to patients under painful experiences and chronical conditions, to aspects related to emotional fatigue brought by interpersonal exchanges or physical exhaustion due to staff shortage, within an increasingly demanding health care system, expose physiotherapists to a higher risk of burnout and few studies have examined burnout in this specific setting. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of burnout in Portuguese physiotherapists and to explore possible associations between burnout and demographic and work-related variables. Significant but weak association was found between age and emotional exhaustion, and between clinical experience and emotional exhaustion and global burnout score. Weak association was also found between the number of treated patients daily and daily working hours and physical fatigue and global burnout. Workload was associated with significantly higher scores of physical fatigue, cognitive weariness and global burnout. The prevalence of burnout was not high but significant differences were found in the prevalence of physical fatigue between the group with low workload and high workload. Emotional exhaustion was the most relevant predictor of the global burnout score. In conclusion, the results suggest that the prevalence of burnout in Portuguese physiotherapists is not very high, however, workload seems to place these professionals at a higher risk of developing burnout.

Cardiotonic steroids are natural compounds that present many physiological and pharmacological functions. They bind Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) modifying cellular ion concentration and trigger cell signaling mechanisms without altering ion balance. These steroids are known to modulate some immune responses, including cytokine production, neutrophil migration, and inflammation (peripherally and in the nervous system). Inflammation can occur in response to homeostasis perturbations and is related to the development of many diseases, including immune-mediated diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. Considering the neutrophils role in the general neuroinflammatory response and that these cells can be modulated by cardiac steroids, this work aims to review the possible regulation of neutrophilic neuroinflammation by the cardiac steroid ouabain.

The purpose of the present study was to characterize the dry-cured loin and dry-cured “cachaço” of Bísaro pork and evaluate the effect of the inclusion of olive cake in the animals’ diet on the cured products. For this purpose, forty loins and forty “cachaços” were used, followed by a process of cold curing with controlled ventilation, without adding nitrites or synthetic additives. The dry-cured loin and “cachaço” chemical compositions were significantly different in moisture, total fat, protein, chlorides, ash, and haem pigments. The “cachaço” showed a much higher value of total fat and a lower protein value. Its chloride content was lower and was related to the lower ash percentage. Neither product differed significantly in the water activity and collagen content. The proportions of saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids were significantly different between these products. The dry-cured “cachaço” showed higher values of SFA and PUFA, and the dry-cured loin had higher MUFA content. No significant effect of different olive cakes on diet was observed in the chemical compositions. Both products are of high quality and with good nutritional and physicochemical characteristics, and the introduction of olive cake in the diet did not affect any of the quality parameters analyzed.

This study evaluates the ability of the near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to estimate the aW, protein, moisture, ash, fat, collagen, texture, pigments, and WHC in the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) of Bísaro pig. Samples (n = 40) of the LTL muscle were minced and scanned in an FT-NIR MasterTM N500 (BÜCHI) over a NIR spectral range of 4000–10,000 cm−1 with a resolution of 4 cm−1. The PLS and SVM regression models were developed using the spectra’s math treatment, DV1, DV2, MSC, SNV, and SMT (n = 40). PLS models showed acceptable fits (estimation models with RMSE ≤ 0.5% and R2 ≥ 0.95) except for the RT variable (RMSE of 0.891% and R2 of 0.748). The SVM models presented better overall prediction results than those obtained by PLS, where only the variables pigments and WHC presented estimation models (respectively: RMSE of 0.069 and 0.472%; R2 of 0.993 and 0.996; slope of 0.985 ± 0.006 and 0.925 ± 0.006). The results showed NIRs capacity to predict the meat quality traits of Bísaro pig breed in order to guarantee its characterization.

Sodium chloride (NaCl) is a key ingredient in the processing of traditional dry-cured meat products by improving microbial safety, sensory attributes and technological properties. However, increasing concern about the consumption of sodium and health has been supporting the development of low-sodium meat products. Several strategies to reduce sodium in dry-cured meat product have been tested, although the followed approaches sometimes result in undesirable characteristics concerning flavor, texture and mouthfeel. The use of halophytic plants such as glasswort (Salicornia herbacea) in food matrices has been suggested as a novel strategy to reduce sodium content, due its salty flavor. The main aim of the present study is to produce traditional dry-cured pork bellies from the Bísaro breed using glasswort as a NaCl partial replacer, and compare it with dry-cured bellies salted either with NaCl or a mix of NaCl + KCl. Control bellies (BC) were salted with 100% of NaCl, the second formulation (BK) had 50% of NaCl and 50% of KCl, and the third formulation (BG) had 90% of NaCl and 10% of glasswort powder (GP). After production, the bellies were evaluated for aw, pH, CIELab coordinates, weight loss, proximal composition, TBARS, collagen and chloride contents, fatty acid profile and sensory attributes. The use of BG in dry-cured pork bellies did not affect processing indicators such as weight loss, aw and pH. Concerning CIELab, only the coordinates L* and hue angle from the external surface color of BG were statistically different from BC and BK. As expected, ash and NaCl contents differed from BG to the other two formulations. SFA and indexes AI and TI were lower, whereas the MUFA and h/H ratio were higher in BG than other treatments, leading to a product with a healthier lipid profile. The sensory evaluation revealed differences in appearance, taste and flavor among treatments, but did not indicate any negative effects of BG in the product attributes. This study reinforces the potential of BG as a natural sodium reducer for the production of traditional dry-cured pork bellies.

The aim of the current experiment was to characterize and evaluate the effect of the dry-curing process on chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and sensory characteristics of the dry-cured Bísaro shoulders. For this purpose, thirty-eight raw forelegs were used, and no nitrites were added during the dry-curing process. This process increased protein, fat, ash content, and pH, with a decrease in moisture and water activity (p < 0.001). The dry-cured shoulders were darker (L*), less red (a*), and less yellow (b*) than the raw shoulders (p < 0.001), and this may be mainly due to the moisture reduction. The proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) decreased during processing, whereas the saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) increased (p < 0.001), which could be related with the oxidative degradation. The sensory analysis showed that dry-cured Bísaro shoulders presented similar organoleptic characteristics to other dry-cured meat products. Also, the chemical composition and fatty acid profile of the dry-cured Bísaro shoulder showed results comparable to those of other cured products. This study revealed that it is possible to obtain safer and healthier dry-cured Bísaro shoulder products judging by these characteristics, since nitrites were not added in its preparation. These findings, along with the product’s high sensory attributes similar to more popular products such as ham, would give more advantage for its acceptability and market demand.

This study aimed to investigate the 12-month and 7-day prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in different body regions and its association with individual (age, gender and BMI) and lifestyle-related (physical activity level and sitting time) factors among blue-collar workers of a Portuguese manufacturing company. One hundred and thirty-six blue-collar workers participated in the study. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed with the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and physical activity level and sitting time were assessed with IPAQ-Short Version. The 12-month prevalence was higher in the low back (56.6%), followed by the wrist/hand (50%), the shoulder (45.6%) and the neck (44.9%). In the last 7 days, the four most affected body regions were: the low back region (25%), the shoulders (20.6%) and the neck and wrist/hands (19.9%). Regarding individual factors, significant associations were found between age and the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the shoulder (p=0.034), elbow (p=0.033), wrist/hand (p=0.030), thigh/hip (p=0.008), neck (p=0.010) and the low back region (p=0.045), with the older workers reporting higher prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms. Also, women reported a significant higher prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck than men (p=0.025). Overweight and obese workers had a significantly higher prevalence of symptoms in the shoulder (p=0.003), wrist/hands (p=0.030) and neck (p=0.033). Regarding lifestyle-related factors, no significant associations were found between physical activity level or sitting time (p>0.05) and the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in any of the body regions. To conclude, blue-collar workers have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms. Individual factors like age, gender and BMI seem to influence the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in different body regions, but lifestyle-related factors such as the physical activity level and sitting time seem not to be associated with the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in studied sample. The results emphasize the need of workplace interventions to prevent musculoskeletal symptoms in this population.

Background and Objectives: The effect of the blood flow restriction technique (BFR) on delayed onset muscular soreness (DOMS) symptoms remains unclear. Since there is no consensus in the literature, the aim of the present study is to systematically identify and appraise the available evidence on the effects of the BFR technique on DOMS, in healthy subjects. Materials and Methods: Computerized literature search in the databases Pubmed, Google Scholar, EBSCO, Cochrane and PEDro to identify randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of blood flow restriction on delayed onset muscular soreness symptoms. Results: Eight trials met the eligibility criteria and were included in this review, presenting the results of 118 participants, with a mean methodological rating of 6/10 on the PEDro scale. Conclusions: So far, there is not enough evidence to confirm or refute the influence of BFR on DOMS, and more studies with a good methodological basis are needed, in larger samples, to establish protocols and parameters of exercise and intervention. Data analysis suggests a tendency toward the proinflammatory effect of BFR during high restrictive pressures combined with eccentric exercises, while postconditioning BFR seems to have a protective effect on DOMS. Prospero ID record: 345457, title registration: “Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Technique on the Prevention of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness: A Systematic Review”.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of different olive cakes in the diet of Bísaro pigs on the carcass, meat and fat. The carcasses of 40 animals fed a diet with five treatments (T1—Basic diet and commercial feed; T2—Basic diet + 10% crude olive cake; T3—Basic diet + 10% olive cake, two phases; T4—Basic diet + 10% exhausted olive cake; T5—Basic diet + 10% exhausted olive cake + 1% olive oil) were used to study the effect on carcass traits, physicochemical meat quality and lipid composition of meat and backfat. There were no significant differences between treatments for the conformation measurements performed, except for the length at the seventh and last rib (p < 0.05). The percentage of prime cuts of the carcass in Bísaro pig is within the values indicated by the Portuguese Standard 2931. No significant differences between treatments for body weight, pH and carcass weight were found. The values of ultimate pH (5.7), L* (51–52), b* (11–12) and SF (3.4–4.2) observed confirm a non-exudative and firm meat without quality deviations, such as DFD or PSE. Thus, as a general conclusion, the inclusion of different olive cakes in the diet of Bísaro pigs did not cause any negative consequences on the carcass characteristics and conformation as well as in the meat and lipidic quality. In addition, the inclusion of this olive industry by-product in the animal diet would be an important contribution to solving the problem of the great environmental impact from olive-mill wastewaters from the extractive industries.

Background and objectives: Starting the multicomponent training sessions with aerobic-based exercises or resistance-based exercises may have different effects on functional fitness and body composition. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of the order of exercises in elderly women’s physical fitness and body composition by multicomponent training. Materials and Methods: A sample of 91 elderly females, aged between 60 and 81, were randomly divided into three groups (A, B, C). Each group performed the following order of exercises: Group A consisted of warm-up followed by aerobic training, strength training, stretching and cool down; Group B consisted of warm-up followed by strength training, aerobic training, stretching and cool down; while the control group (C) did not perform any exercise. Functional fitness and body composition were assessed at 3 moments of the 32 weeks (baseline and after each 16-week) intervention. One-way ANOVA for comparison between groups, ANOVA for repeated measures and multiple linear regression were used for statistical analysis. Results: The results showed that the functional fitness and body composition varied over the 32 weeks of multicomponent training. However, group A seems to show higher improvements in more variables. Conclusion: In the current study, group A obtained better results in most of the evaluated parameters. Thus, to improve functional fitness, warm-up, followed by aerobic training, strength training and relaxation may be the most suitable training for elderly women.

Introdução: Os ganhos em saúde, relacionados com cuidados na comunidade estão já identificados e incluem o autocuidado e a autonomia nas atividades de vida diária. Objetivo: Analisar os ganhos em saúde dos utentes assistidos pela Equipa de Cuidados Continuados Integrados de Tarouca. Métodos: O estudo quantitativo, descritivo e transversal, foi desenvolvido com 149 utentes utentes, cuja maioria (61,5%) tem 65 ou mais anos, 52,4% são do genero masculino e estavam integrados na Equipa de Cuidados Continuados Integrados ( ECCI) de Tarouca. Foram utilizadas escalas validadas, para avaliação da dependência e da funcionalidade na admissão e na alta aos utentes. A recolha de dados foi efetuada durante o mês de maio de 2019, através da consulta dos processos individuais dos utentes admitidos na unidade. Resultados: A maioria dos utentes obteve ganhos em saúde: 62% na autonomia, funcionalidade e nas atividades da vida diárias; 72% pontuou com independência nas atividades básicas de vida; 70,3% manteve a funcionalidade; 87,5% alcançaram ganhos no equilíbrio e marcha e 60% tiveram ganhos no controlo da dor. Conclusões: Na pessoa idosa, a promoção da autonomia e independência estão fortemente relacionados com a qualidade de vida, daí a importância da sua avaliação. Os resultados mostram terem ocorrido ganhos em saúde e ganhos em autonomia, na população alvo da intervenção da ECCI de Tarouca.

Introdução: O envelhecimento cursa frequentemente com a deterioração das funções intelectuais nas quais se inclui a perda de memória. Objetivos: Avaliar a capacidade cognitiva de um grupo de idosos, antes e após, frequentarem um programa de estimulação cognitiva. Métodos: Estudo exploratório de cariz transversal com uma amostra de 25 idosos, com idades compreendidas entre os 65 e 76 anos. Destes, 4 são do género masculino e 21 do género feminino. Aplicou-se a escala Mini Mental State Examination no início e no final da implementação do projeto “Envelhecer Ativa’mente”, para monitorizar as funções cognitivas dos participantes, antes e após frequentarem um programa de estimulação cognitiva. Resultados: A avaliação das funções cognitivas mostrou melhoria da função evocação. Obtiveram-se scores iguais, para os dois momentos de avaliação, nas funções orientação e atenção e cálculo. Nas restantes funções cognitivas não se verificaram alterações significativas. Conclusões: Os resultados apontam ocorrer ganhos clínicos, considerando-se por isso ser fundamental dar continuidade ao plano de intervenção de estimulação cognitiva. Assume-se como um desafio dar continuidade ao projeto e alargar o grupo alvo a todas as pessoas com 65 ou mais anos, do Concelho de Tarouca, de forma a melhorar e manter a capacidade cognitiva e funcional dos idosos.

Abstract The present study aims to compare the sensory qualities and the degree of acceptance of wild/farmed brown-trout (Salmo trutta) and the farmed rainbow-trout (Onchorynchus mykiss) by a consumer panel. Acceptability regarding attributes appearance, taste, texture, and global appreciation were evaluated on 20 wild brown-trout, 20 farmed brown-trout and 20 farmed rainbow trout by a consumers’ panel formed by 74 elements. Although the panel of consumers equally well accepted all samples, the rainbow trout had classifications slightly higher in all sensory attributes. This tendency was confirmed by internal preference maps performed for each studied attribute. Consumers’ slightly higher preference for farmed fish might indicate that farmed trout could be an alternative to wild brown trout.

Letter to the editor

Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) is a coordination network with organic binders and porous structure. The objective of this research was to synthesize the MOF of [Cu3(BTC)2(H2O)3]n by electrochemical route and to apply it as adsorbent material for removal of dyes from tissues in effluents. The synthesis of this MOF was given electrochemically via amperometric, setting the potential at 12V for 17 min, resulting in 73% yield of a blue solid. The final product was used in its crude form and characterized by FTIR and cyclic voltammetry. This MOF, when in contact with a mixture that simulates an effluent of the textile industry, allowed its discoloration, accompanied by the decanting of a colored solid. This depigmentation was also observed by analysis of the supernatant by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The FTIR spectrum of the solid decanted after mixing the MOF with the dye showed the adsorption of the pigments from the solution by the MOF. This solid MOF residue was environmentally advantageous because it was easily separated from the treated effluent and being regenerated and reusable. This differentiates it from the sludge generated in traditional coagulation/flocculation process that can be harmful to the environment.

Measuring corneal biomechanical properties is still challenging. There are several clinical applications for biomechanical measurements, including the detection of mild or early forms of ectatic corneal diseases. This article reviews clinical applications for biomechanical measurements provided by the Corvis ST dynamic non contact tonometer

Several strategies for producing healthier meat products have been developed. Reducing fat content, using different fat sources, modifying and improving the fatty acid profile or even replacing saturated fat with oleogels are some of the methods used. Goat meat mainly from animals out of quality brands with low commercial value can be valorized when processed, giving the opportunity to increase its consumption and acceptability. Thus, the aim of this study was to study the effect of the replacement of pork as a source of fat with an olive oleogel in burgers manufactured with goat meat and to compare the goat meat burgers with the most common commercial burgers made with beef. Two replications of the burgers were manufactured at different times, and three samples of each burger type (GOO—goat meat burgers with olive oil; GPF—goat meat burgers with pork fat) were randomly selected from each lot manufactured. Each sample was analyzed in triplicate for each physicochemical analysis. At the time, the manufactured burgers were analyzed simultaneously with the commercial burgers. The burgers with olive oil (GOO) showed higher a* and b* than the burgers with pork fat (GPF) and consequently had lower h° and C*. The ashes, protein and collagen contents of the GOO and GPF burgers were similar to those of the other goat meat products. The effect of the incorporation of oleogel on the physicochemical composition of the burgers in relation to the pork fat was expressed in the fat content, 4 and 2.78% for GOO and GPF, respectively. CH burgers have significantly higher fat content (13.45%) than GOO and GPF burgers. The replacement of pork backfat with a vegetable oleogel modified the fatty acids profile, since the GOO burgers had the highest MUFA and PUFA and the lipidic quality, defined by the IA and IT indices, was 0.38 and 0.99, respectively. Globally, goat burgers were sensorially harder and presented a more difficult chewiness than CH. The replacement of the pork back fat with oleogel significantly decreased hardness and chewiness.

A gerência da cadeia de suprimentos integrada, ou Supply Chain Management (SCM) é uma ferramenta importante na administração de estoques e suprimentos. Com a utilização deste recurso, o administrador consegue manter sob controle os estoques de suprimentos, bem como consegue diagnosticar possíveis falhas nas entrega dos suprimentos de certos fornecedores. Este artigo objetiva uma síntese de conceitos sobre SCM de vários autores, delineando os conceitos mais explorados, e mais usuais. Posteriormente, trabalharemos com as principais funções e divisões da gestão da cadeia de suprimentos. Concluindo nosso estudo, remeteremos a teoria à parte prática com um case da empresa McDonalds Maringá, onde foi aplicado um questionário com relação aos tópicos estudados, e juntamente com as observações dos integrantes do grupo foi feito um relato sobre os conceitos de SCM aplicados à empresa. Além destes, nosso estudo trabalhará também com as tendências futuras da gestão de suprimentos.

A inclusão escolar assevera o cumprimento do direito de todos à educação. Isto posto, emergiu o seguinte questionamento. De que forma tem ocorrido o ensino de uma estudante surda em um curso de formação de docentes? Este, por sua vez, determinou o objetivo geral desta pesquisa: analisar as percepções de professores de um curso de formação de docentes quanto ao processo de ensino de uma estudante surda. Para tanto, foi realizada uma investigação qualitativa e o instrumento de coleta de dados foi um questionário on-line. A análise dos resultados pautou-se nos pressupostos da Análise Textual Discursiva. Com isso, evidenciou-se que a maioria do(a)s participantes definiu o processo de inclusão como uma oportunidade de acolhimento. Em relação às dificuldades, a maioria admitiu que sente ao trabalhar com estudantes com necessidades especiais, pois não tem domínio da Língua Brasileira de Sinais ou não tem material adequado e precisa adaptar conteúdos e avaliações. Todavia, uma minoria alegou não ter dificuldades, pois as aulas são ministradas por meio de estratégias diferenciadas, de tal modo que todo(a)s possuem possibilidade de aprender. Além disso, constatou-se que não há uma padronização quanto aos métodos de ensino. Dentre as ações indicadas estão: adaptação de texto; atendimento individualizado; atividades visuais; vídeos com legendas; criação de atividades. Por fim, sugere-se que a formação de professores contemple em seu currículo conhecimentos teóricos e metodológicos que propiciem uma ação docente que atenda às necessidades de qualquer estudante.

The physicochemical composition of sheep and goat pâtés with different sources and percentage of fat (10% and 30%; pork belly or olive oil) were evaluated. A low-fat content (9.7–18.2%) was observed in the pâtés comparing with similar meat products. Cholesterol was lower in pâtés with olive oil than with pork fat. The source of fat (pork belly or olive oil) and the proportion of fat influenced significantly the fatty acid profile. Pâtés with olive oil have lower saturated fat content and highest monounsaturated fat while and goat meat pâtés have higher polyunsaturated fat content The polyunsaturated versus saturated fatty acids ratio varying from 0.21 to 0.39 and the total unsaturated fatty acids showed that sheep and goat pâtés are balanced products and could be an interesting way to the added value of animals with low commercial and consumer acceptability.

ABSTRACT: Sensory quality of sheep and goat pâtés with different sources and percentage of fat (10% or 30%, and pork belly or olive oil) were evaluated. A trained taste panel performed sensory analysis and consumers were consulted to perceive their preferences. Generalised Procrustes Analysis was used to test the differences found by panellists. Panellists were able to find sensory differences between sheep and goat pâtés, and also fat percentages. Goat pâtés had higher values of juiciness and sheep pâtés had higher values of taste intensity. Ten percent pork belly fat pâtés had the highest values of colour and cohesiveness attributes and also aroma intensity, while 30% olive oil pâtés had the highest values of texture attributes, except cohesiveness. Although, differences between pâtés were found by panellists, consumers had no particular preference for one of them.

Cardiotonic steroids, such as ouabain and digoxin, are known to bind to Na+/K+-ATPase and to promote several biological activities, including anti-inflammatory activity. However, there are still no reports in the literature about inflammation and marinobufagenin, a cardiotonic steroid from the bufadienolide family endogenously found in mammals. Therefore, the aim of this work was to analyze, in vivo and in vitro, the role of marinobufagenin in acute inflammation. Swiss mice were treated with 0.56 mg/kg of marinobufagenin intraperitoneally (i.p.) and zymosan (2 mg/mL, i.p.) was used to induce peritoneal inflammation. Peritoneal fluid was collected and used for counting cells by optical microscopy and proinflammatory cytokine quantification (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) by immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA). Zymosan stimulation, as expected, induced increased cell migration and proinflammatory cytokine levels in the peritoneum. Marinobufagenin treatment reduced polymorphonuclear cell migration and IL-1β and IL-6 levels in the peritoneal cavity, without interfering in TNF-α levels. In addition, the effect of marinobufagenin was evaluated using peritoneal macrophages stimulated by zymosan (0.2 mg/mL) in vitro. Marinobufagenin treatment at different concentrations (10, 100, 1000, and 10000 nM) showed no cytotoxic effect on peritoneal macrophages. Interestingly, the lowest concentration, which did not inhibit Na+/K+-ATPase activity, attenuated proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. To investigate the putative mechanism of action of marinobufagenin, the expression of surface molecules (TLR2 and CD69) and P-p38 MAPK were also evaluated, but no significant effect was observed. Thus, our results suggest that marinobufagenin has an anti-inflammatory role in vivo and in vitro and reveals a novel possible endogenous function of this steroid in mammals.

Concerned about the trend to reduce salt consumption, the meat industry has been increasing the strategies to produce and commercialize products where the reduction or even the replacement of NaCl is an important goal. The aim of this study was to test the effect of partial NaCl replacement by KCl and Sub4Salt® on the quality of pork sausages. Three different formulations (NaCl + KCl, NaCl + Sub4Salt®, and KCl + Sub4Salt®) were considered and compared to the control (2% NaCl). Physicochemical properties, chemical composition, and microbiological and sensory characteristics were evaluated. The replacement of NaCl did not affect pH, water activity (aw) or its chemical composition after eight or 16 days ripening time, while a significant sodium reduction was achieved. The oxidation index expressed in TBARS was also not affected by the NaCl substitution and varied between 0.01 to 0.04 of malonaldehyde (MDA) per kg of sample. Similarly, the NaCl replacement did not change the microbiological quality of the sausages, and the production of healthier meat sausages had also no significant effect on their sensory characteristics. Therefore, according to the results obtained, it is viable and a good strategy for the meat industry to produce “reduced sodium content” sausages without affecting their traditional quality.

In the last decade, there has been a significant development in rapid, non-destructive and non-invasive techniques to evaluate carcass composition and meat quality of meat species. This article aims to review the recent technological advances of non-destructive and non-invasive techniques to provide objective data to evaluate carcass composition and quality traits of sheep and goat meat. We highlight imaging and spectroscopy techniques and practical aspects, such as accuracy, reliability, cost, portability, speed and ease of use. For the imaging techniques, recent improvements in the use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to assess sheep and goat carcass and meat quality will be addressed. Optical technologies are gaining importance for monitoring and evaluating the quality and safety of carcasses and meat and, among them, those that deserve more attention are visible and infrared reflectance spectroscopy, hyperspectral imagery and Raman spectroscopy. In this work, advances in research involving these techniques in their application to sheep and goats are presented and discussed. In recent years, there has been substantial investment and research in fast, non-destructive and easy-to-use technology to raise the standards of quality and food safety in all stages of sheep and goat meat production.

Even though sheep and goat processed meat products are not as popular as pork, beef or poultry and are generally considered not as important, they have a very important role in meat consumption around the world. A concise review of the origin and type of the most important sheep and goat processed meat products produced in different countries and world regions is made. The manuscript also summarizes the most recent studies on sheep and goat processed meats on the physicochemical characterizations, sensory quality, microbiological quality and safety. Some conclusions and future trends in production, processing and commercial potentiality for sheep and goat processed meat products are discussed. Several possibilities exist to make them more diversified and appealing to the market. Processing meat from culled animals is an interesting way to value animals with low market acceptability. Some as fermented sausages, cured legs and pâtés have great commercial potential as highly acceptable consumer commodities. An interesting field of food research is the rediscovery of a new generation of goat and sheep meat products as functional foods that will respond to the constant innovation required by the meat industry. Everything related to food safety must be considered in the future.

ABSTRACT: The whitefly can be hosted by weeds and cause damage to cotton crops. The objective of this work was to identify which species of weeds among the floristic compositions occurring in the cotton crop are hosts of whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci biotype B). Bi-weekly evaluations were performed in a cotton area (FM 975 WS) in Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil, during the reproductive phase of the crop. An inventory square (0.25 m side) was randomly cast 15 times between the cotton rows. The weeds were cut close to the ground, conditioned and taken to the laboratory to identify the family and species, and to quantify the eggs and nymphs of whiteflies. Eleven families were detected, with the most frequent being Amaranthaceae (16.67%), Convolvulaceae (12.5%), Rubiaceae (12.5%) and Poaceae (12.5%). The most frequent species were Amaranthus spp. (13.79%) and Alternanthera tenella, Ipomea spp., Richardia brasiliensis and Eleusine indica, with 10.34% each. From the 15 collected species, the presence of whitefly eggs or nymphs was only not observed in Portulaca oleracea and E. indica. The highest incidence of B. tabaci occurred in Euphorbia heterophylla. The occurrence of these species should be monitored, so that the whitefly population does not interfere in the cotton fiber quality.

ABSTRACT: Body composition (total crude protein, lipid, ash, dry matter and moisture) and fatty acid profiles were compared between wild and farmed brown trout and between farmed rainbow trout. Farmed brown trout contained the highest amount of crude protein (18.39%), whereas farmed rainbow trout contained higher levels of crude lipid (2.35%). Thirty six fatty acids were found, including sixteen saturated fatty acids (SFA), nine monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and eleven polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The most abundant SFA in all fish were palmitic acid and stearic acid. However, the most abundant fatty acids in all trout samples were MUFA and PUFA. MUFA were the most abundant fatty acid in farmed brown trout because of high abundance of oleic acid in this samples (35.46g / 100g fatty acids). PUFA were predominating in the samples of wild brown trout and of rainbow trout 56.16 and 56.29g/100g fatty acids, respectively). Linoleic acid was the most abundant fatty acid reported in the rainbow trout (47.17g/100g fatty acids). Significantly higher amounts of docosahexaenoic acid, α-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid were observed in the wild trout samples. Wild brown trout contained significantly more docosahexaenoic acid, α-linolenic acid, Eicosapentaenoic acidArachidonic acid. Sensory quality evaluation, by a consumers’ panel, revealed all samples were equally well accepted.

RESUMO Introdução Conhecer o fluxo de referência e contrarreferência de serviços de saúde de alta complexidade é imprescindível para o aperfeiçoamento da assistência fonoaudiológica. Objetivo Analisar o fluxo de pacientes de um serviço de Fonoaudiologia de alta complexidade no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Métodos Estudo descritivo, realizado em serviço de Fonoaudiologia de hospital de alta complexidade. Foram analisados os dados de 373 usuários submetidos à triagem fonoaudiológica (consulta a prontuários). As variáveis analisadas foram: perfil sociodemográfico e fonoaudiológico; origem dos usuários (referência); tempo entre a referência e a realização da triagem; encaminhamentos após a triagem (contrarreferência); tempo entre a conclusão da triagem e o primeiro atendimento fonoaudiológico no serviço de contrarreferência; grau de satisfação com o atendimento fonoaudiológico de contrarreferência. Resultados Predominaram indivíduos com idades entre 0 e 11 anos e 11 meses, do gênero masculino, residentes na cidade de São Paulo, com ensino fundamental incompleto. A hipótese diagnóstica fonoaudiológica de disfonia foi a mais prevalente. A maioria dos usuários foi referenciada pela atenção terciária. A média de tempo de espera para a triagem foi de 56,6 dias (intervalo predominante de 51 a 60 dias). Pouco mais da metade dos sujeitos foi encaminhada para o nível terciário. O tempo de espera pelo atendimento foi maior no nível secundário. A maioria dos usuários referiu como excelente ou bom o grau de satisfação com o atendimento. Conclusão Observou-se alto grau de resolutividade no serviço analisado (atenção terciária) e necessidade de reorganização dos sistemas de referência e contrarreferência na atenção secundária e primária.

Objetivos: Testar a associação entre o bem-estar psicológico (BEP) e o engagement no trabalho dos profissionais de saúde. Tipo de estudo: Estudo transversal analítico. Local: Agrupamentos de Centros de Saúde de Matosinhos e Grande Porto IV. População: Profissionais de saúde dos dois Agrupamentos de Centros de Saúde. Métodos: Foram utilizadas escalas validadas para a língua portuguesa – Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ) e Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES), que avaliam o BEP e o engagement no trabalho, respetivamente. Foi testada a associação entre o BEP e o engagement, controlando para variáveis de confundimento, através de um modelo de regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: Entre os profissionais, 52,5% são felizes ou bastante felizes e 45,5% apresentam um alto nível de engagement. Existe uma correlação significativa entre as escalas (r=0,32, p

Abstract: Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated disease affecting 1-3% of the population worldwide. This work seeks to draw a profile of patients with psoriasis, analyzing socioeconomic, anthropometric, and clinical aspects. For this, medical records from 81 individuals who received medical care in a university hospital in 2014 were consulted. It was observed that the patients were mostly dark-skinned black adult men, with a low education level and a low income, who were sedentary, former smokers, obese, with an increase in waist circumference, and who did not consume alcohol. Psoriasis vulgaris predominated, beginning mainly on the scalp, hands, and feet. In addition, many presented some type of associated comorbidity and had relatives with psoriasis.