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This study aimed to explore the affective relationship of older adults with their pets during the COVID-19 pandemic; and to assess how this contributed to their mental health. This qualitative study included 351 participants aged 65–88 years from Portugal, the United Kingdom, and Spain. All interviews went through content analysis. Findings indicated five themes: (1) Enabling a meaningful affective relationship (86%); (2) Strengthening affective sharing with partner (68%); (3) Easing new affective relationships (61%); (4) Enhancing sensory stimuli and physical touch (55%); and; (5) Feeling physical pleasure (23%). Three main themes emerged from the content analysis regarding the second objective: (1) Fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms (73%); (2) Fewer feelings of loneliness (68%); and (3) Fewer mood swings (43%). The affective relationship between older adults and their pets was relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic since it solidified affective relationships with their partners and fostered the creation of new relationships. Additionally, it contributed to a deeper affective relationship with themselves, in terms of sensory stimuli, physical touch, and physical pleasure. Owning a pet improved mental health symptoms, namely those associated with depression, anxiety, and mood swings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and methodsResultsConclusionsTo determine the normative values and reference equations of the 4-Meter Gait Speed Test (4MGS) at usual and maximal speed for Portuguese adults. We also assessed the participant experience during the performance of the 4MGS.A cross-sectional study was conducted with individuals without disabilities. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, smoking habits and physical activity (Brief Physical Activity Assessment Tool [BPAAT]) data were collected. Individuals performed 3 repetitions of 4MGS at usual and maximal speeds, and the best performances were recorded. Speed values were calculated by age and sex. Stepwise multiple regressions were used for the reference equations. Participants rated their comfort from 0 (‘not comfortable at all’) to 5 (‘very comfortable’) for each modality and indicated their preferences.A total of 287 individuals (62.4% female; 47.8 ± 19.5 years) were recruited. Speed was significantly reduced after the sixth decade of life compared with the other decades (p < 0.001). Reference equations were: Usual speed = 1.598 – (0.006 x age) + (0.060 x BPAAT classification), R2= 27% and Maximal speed = 2.272 – (0.010 x age) + (0.157 x sex) + (0.73 x BPAAT classification), R2= 38%. Most participants felt ‘very comfortable’ performing the 4MGS at usual speed (94.8%), maximal speed (75.6%) and no preference in 4MGS modalities (69%).Speed is significantly affected by age. For the reference equations, age and physical activity explain the results of usual speed, and both associated with sex explain the results of maximal speed. Most participants were highly comfortable and expressed no preference in 4MGS modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is an adult-onset neurodegenerative disease caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the ataxin-3 (ATXN3) gene. No effective treatment is available for this disorder, other than symptom-directed approaches. Bile acids have shown therapeutic efficacy in neurodegenerative disease models. Here, we pinpointed tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) as an efficient therapeutic, improving the motor and neuropathological phenotype of SCA3 nematode and mouse models. Surprisingly, transcriptomic and functional in vivo data showed that TUDCA acts in neuronal tissue through the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), but independently of its canonical receptor, the farnesoid X receptor (FXR). TUDCA was predicted to bind to the GR, in a similar fashion to corticosteroid molecules. GR levels were decreased in disease-affected brain regions, likely due to increased protein degradation as a consequence of ATXN3 dysfunction being restored by TUDCA treatment. Analysis of a SCA3 clinical cohort showed intriguing correlations between the peripheral expression of GR and the predicted age at disease onset in presymptomatic subjects and FKBP5 expression with disease progression, suggesting this pathway as a potential source of biomarkers for future study. We have established a novel in vivo mechanism for the neuroprotective effects of TUDCA in SCA3 and propose this readily available drug for clinical trials in SCA3 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A newly produced silk fibroin (SF) aerogel particulate system using a supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2)-assisted drying technology is herein proposed for biomedical applications. Different concentrations of silk fibroin (3%, 5%, and 7% (w/v)) were explored to investigate the potential of this technology to produce size- and porosity-controlled particles. Laser diffraction, helium pycnometry, nitrogen adsorption–desorption analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared with Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy were performed to characterize the physicochemical properties of the material. The enzymatic degradation profile of the SF aerogel particles was evaluated by immersion in protease XIV solution, and the biological properties by cell viability and cell proliferation assays. The obtained aerogel particles were mesoporous with high and concentration dependent specific surface area (203–326 m2/g). They displayed significant antioxidant activity and sustained degradation in the presence of protease XIV enzyme. The in vitro assessment using human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) confirm the particles' biocompatibility, as well as the enhancement in cell viability and proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoplastic resin transfer molding (T-RTM) technology was applied to synthesize graphene nanoplatelets-based nanocomposites via anionic ring-opening polymerization (AROP). Polyamide 6 (PA6) was obtained by AROP and was used as the polymeric matrix of the developed nanocomposites. The non-isothermal crystallization behavior of PA6 and nanocomposites was analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Nanocomposites with 0.5 wt.% of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) with two different diameter sizes were prepared. Results have shown that the crystallization temperature shifted to higher values in the presence of GNPs. This behavior is more noticeable for the nanocomposite prepared with smaller GNPs (PA6/GN). The crystallization kinetic behavior of all samples was assessed by Avrami and Liu's models. It was observed that GNPs increased the crystallization rate, thus revealing a nucleating ability, and also validated the reduction of half-time crystallization values. Such tendency was also supported by the lower activation energy values determined by Friedman's method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that is the result of various environmental, bacterial and genetic stimuli, which culminate in the disruption of the skin's barrier function. Characterized by highly pruritic skin lesions, xerosis and an array of comorbidities among which skin infections are the most common, this condition results in both a significant loss of quality of life and in the need for life-long treatments (e.g., corticosteroids, monoclonal antibodies and regular antibiotic intake), all of which may have harmful secondary effects. This, in conjunction with AD's rising prevalence, made the development of alternative treatment strategies the focus of both the scientific community and the pharmaceutical industry. Given their potential to both manage the skin microbiome, fight infections and even modulate the local immune response, the use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from more diverse origins has become one of the most promising alternative solutions for AD management, with some being already used with some success towards this end. However, their production and use also exhibit some limitations. The current work seeks to compile the available information and provide a better understanding of the state of the art in the understanding of AMPs' true potential in addressing AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carboxymethyl cellulose use in industry is ubiquitous. Though it is recognized as safe by the EFSA and FDA, newer works have raised concerns related to its safety, as in vivo studies showed evidence of gut dysbiosis associated with CMC's presence. Herein lies the question, is CMC a gut pro-inflammatory compound? As no work addressed this question, we sought to understand whether CMC was pro-inflammatory through the immunomodulation of GI tract epithelial cells. The results showed that while CMC was not cytotoxic up to 25 mg/mL towards Caco-2, HT29-MTX and Hep G2 cells, it had an overall pro-inflammatory behavior. In a Caco-2 monolayer, CMC by itself increased IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α secretion, with the latter increasing by 1924%, and with these increases being 9.7 times superior to the one obtained for the IL-1β pro-inflammation control. In co-culture models, an increase in secretion in the apical side, particularly for IL-6 (692% increase), was observed, and when RAW 264.7 was added, data showed a more complex scenario as stimulation of pro-inflammatory (IL-6, MCP-1 and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10 and IFN-β) cytokines in the basal side was observed. Considering these results, CMC may exert a pro-inflammatory effect in the intestinal lumen, and despite more studies being required, the incorporation of CMC in foodstuffs must be carefully considered in the future to minimize potential GI tract dysbiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoS2 nanoflowers (NFs) obtained through a hydrothermal approach were used as the substrate for the deposition of tiny spherical bimetallic AuAg or monometallic Au nanoparticles (NPs), leading to novel photothermal-assisted catalysts with different hybrid nanostructures and showing improved catalytic performance under NIR laser irradiation. The catalytic reduction of pollutant 4-nitrophenol (4-NF) to the valuable product 4-aminophenol (4-AF) was evaluated. The hydrothermal synthesis of MoS2 NFs provides a material with a broad absorption in the Vis-NIR region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The in situ grafting of alloyed AuAg and Au NPs of very small size (2.0–2.5 nm) was possible through the decomposition of organometallic complexes [Au2Ag2(C6F5)4(OEt2)2]n and [Au(C6F5)(tht)] (tht = tetrahydrothiophene) using triisopropilsilane as reducing agent, leading to nanohybrids 1–4. The new nanohybrid materials display photothermal properties arising from NIR light absorption of the MoS2 NFs component. The AuAg-MoS2 nanohybrid 2 showed excellent photothermal-assisted catalytic activity for the reduction of 4-NF, which is better than that of the monometallic Au-MoS2 nanohybrid 4. The obtained nanohybrids were characterised by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), High Angle Annular Dark Field—Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy—Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (HAADF-STEM-EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Prostate cancer represents a highly prevalent form of cancer worldwide, with timely detection and treatment being crucial for achieving a high survival rate. Manual segmentation, which is the process of manually identifying different anatomical structures or tissues within an image, is the most prevalent detection method. However, it is a time-consuming and subjective task constrained by the radiologists' expertise, which underpins the demand for automated segmentation methods. In this study, we conduct a comprehensive and rigorous comparison of multiple prevalent deep learning-based automatic segmentation models for the prostate gland and both peripheral and transition zones, using multi-parametric MRI data. Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer globally, affecting roughly one in every eight men according to the American Cancer Society. Although the survival rate for prostate cancer is significantly high given the very high incidence rate, there is an urgent need to improve and develop new clinical aid systems to help detect and treat prostate cancer in a timely manner. In this retrospective study, our contributions are twofold: First, we perform a comparative unified study of different commonly used segmentation models for prostate gland and zone (peripheral and transition) segmentation. Second, we present and evaluate an additional research question regarding the effectiveness of using an object detector as a pre-processing step to aid in the segmentation process. We perform a thorough evaluation of the deep learning models on two public datasets, where one is used for cross-validation and the other as an external test set. Overall, the results reveal that the choice of model is relatively inconsequential, as the majority produce non-significantly different scores, apart from nnU-Net which consistently outperforms others, and that the models trained on data cropped by the object detector often generalize better, despite performing worse during cross-validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to identify the sociodemographic profile and the characteristics of interpersonal violence against older adults during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in a capital city from the Brazilian Southeast region. Method: a descriptive and exploratory research study with a cross-sectional design based on the notifications of suspected or confirmed cases of violence against older adults between March 2020 and March 2021. A univariate statistical analysis and Fisher's exact test (p<0.05) were performed. Results: a total of 2,681 notifications were recorded during the period. The main victims were individuals aged between 60 and 64 years old, female, white-skinned and with low schooling levels. The instances of violence were more frequent in the victims' homes. Physical and psychological violence predominated, through physical force/beatings and threats, respectively. Most of the aggressors were male, younger than the victims and generally their children or intimate partners. The aggressions were perpetrated more than once and were driven by generational conflicts. There was low referral to entities for the protection of older adults. Conclusion: the sociodemographic profile found evidences vulnerable victims, subjected to many types of violence, and at a potential risk against their overall health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet-induced obesity contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, metabolic inflammation, oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Overall, obesity is associated with deviations in the composition and functionality of the gut microbiota. There are many divergent findings regarding the link between the excessive intake of certain dietary components (i.e., fat and sugar) and obesity development. We therefore investigated the effect of specific diets, with a different content of sugar and fat, in promoting obesity and related comorbidities as well as their impact on microbial load and gut microbiota composition/diversity. C57BL/6J mice were fed either a low-sugar, low-fat control diet (CT), a high-sugar diet (HS), a high-fat, high-sugar diet (HF/HS), or a high-fat diet (HF) for 8 wk. The impact of the different diets on obesity, glucose metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative and ER stress was determined. Diet-induced changes in the gut microbiota composition and density were also analyzed. HF diet-fed mice showed the highest body weight and fat mass gains and displayed the most impaired glucose and insulin profiles. HS, HF/HS, and HF diets differently affected hepatic cholesterol content and mRNA expression of several markers associated with immune cells, inflammation, oxidative and ER stress in several organs/tissues. In addition, HF diet feeding resulted in a decreased microbial load at the end of the experiment. When analyzing the gut microbiota composition, we found that HS, HF/HS, and HF diets induced specific changes in the abundance of certain bacterial taxa. This was not associated with a specific change in systemic inflammatory markers, but HS mice exhibited higher FGF21 plasma levels compared with HF diet-fed mice. Taken together, our results highlight that dietary intake of different macronutrients distinctively impacts the development of an obese/diabetic state and the regulation of metabolic inflammation in specific organs. We propose that these differences are not only obesity-driven but that changes in the gut microbiota composition may play a key role in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the efficiency of São Paulo municipalities with spending on the Primary Health Care subfunction in 2018 and its association with location, population size, wealth generated in the municipality (GDP - Gross Domestic Product) and budget expenditures with this public policy. Methodology: Exploratory descriptive and explanatory study with São Paulo municipalities in six similar clusters of population and GDP. It uses the settled expense as input, the Number of ESF Teams, Percentage of ESF Coverage, Number of Basic Health Units and Percentage of Live Births of mothers who performed more than 7 consultations in the prenatal period as an output. The efficiency level of each municipality is shown on georeferenced maps. Pearson's correlation is used to estimate the levels of associations between quantitative variables. Results: 102 municipalities have a maximum level of efficiency, distributed among the five groups. Municipalities with a low number of inhabitants and GDP tend to be more inefficient. Efficiency has a low correlation with population size, GDP or public spending. The municipalities with the lowest levels of efficiency are neighbors of São Paulo (Metropolitan Region) or small cities scattered throughout the territory. Theoretical Contributions: identifies that the management (formulation, implementation and evaluation) of the primary health care policy must consider different programs that focus on its location in the territory, population and wealth of the municipalities. There are references to the benchmarks for good practices in managing Primary Health Care policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ATXN2 gene, encoding for ataxin-2, is located in a trait locus for obesity. Atxn2 knockout (KO) mice are obese and insulin resistant; however, the cause f or this phenotype is still unknown. Moreover, several findings suggest ataxin-2 as a metabolic regulator, but the role of this protein in the hypothalamus was never studied before. The aim of this work was to understand if ataxin-2 modulation in the hypothalamus could play a role in metabolic regulation. Ataxin-2 was overexpressed/re-established in the hypothalamus of C57Bl6/Atxn2 KO mice fed either a chow or a high-fat diet (HFD). This deliv ery was achieved through stereotaxic injection of lentiviral vectors encoding for ataxin-2. We show, for the first time, that HFD decreases ataxin-2 levels in mouse hypothalamus and liver. Specific hypothalamic ataxin-2 overexpression prevents HFD-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Ataxin-2 re-establishment in Atxn2 KO mice improved metabolic dysfunction without changing body weight. Furthermore, we observed altered clock gene expression in Atxn2 KO that might be causative of metabolic dysfunction. Interestingly, ataxin-2 hypothalamic re-establishment rescued these circadian alterations. Thus, ataxin-2 in the hypothalamus is a determinant for weight, insulin sensitivity and clock gene expression. Ataxin-2's potential role in the circadian clock, through the regulation of clock genes, might be a relevant mechanism to regulate metabolism. Overall, this work shows hypothalamic ataxin-2 as a new player in metabolism regulation, which might contribute to the development of new strategies for metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We have previously identified deflamin, an oligomeric protein isolated from the white lupine seeds (Lupinus albus) with anti-MMPs and anti-inflammatory properties. Given the involvement of MMPs and inflammation in the carcinogenesis process, we aimed to assess deflamin's role in cancer development and progression. Using colorectal cancer cell lines and zebrafish xenotransplant models, we found that deflamin exhibits anti-MMP-2 and anti-MMP-9 activity, being able to reduce tumor size and metastasis formation in vivo. Deflamin was shown to impair cancer cell migration and invasion, as well as collagen remodeling and angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment, highly impacting cancer behavior. Overall, our results unravel the nutraceutical potential of deflamin in colorectal cancer treatment. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes that play a crucial role in tumor microenvironment remodeling, contributing to inflammatory and angiogenic processes, and ultimately promoting tumor maintenance and progression. Several studies on bioactive polypeptides isolated from legumes have shown anti-migratory, anti-MMPs, and anti-tumor effects, potentially constituting novel strategies for both the prevention and progression of cancer. In this work, we investigated the anti-tumor role of deflamin, a protein oligomer isolated from white lupine seeds (Lupinus albus) reported to inhibit MMP-9 and cell migration in colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines. We found that deflamin exerts an inhibitory effect on tumor growth and metastasis formation, contributing to increased tumor apoptosis in the xenotransplanted zebrafish larvae model. Furthermore, deflamin resulted not only in a significant reduction in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity but also in impaired cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro. Using the xenograft zebrafish model, we observed that deflamin inhibits collagen degradation and angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment in vivo. Overall, our work reveals the potential of deflamin as an agent against CRC development and progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years bioactive textiles have risen to the forefront of consumers perception due to their potential protection against virus, fungi and bacteria. However, traditional textile staining is an eco-damaging process that and current methods of textile functionalization are expensive, complicated and with great environmental impact. With that in mind, this work sought to show a possible solution for this problematic through the usage of a novel one step textile dyeing and functionalization method based upon nanoencapsulated textile dyes (NTDs). To do so navy blue everzol NTDs were produced with chitosan, cotton dyed, characterized through FTIR and SEM and biological potential evaluated through biocompatibility screening and antimicrobial activity against skin pathogens. The data obtained showed that NTDs effectively dyed the target textile through a coating of the cotton fibre and that NTDs formed hydrogen bonds with the cellulose fibre via electrostatic interactions of the chitosan amino groups with cotton sulphate groups. From a biocompatibility perspective NTDs dyed cotton had no deleterious effects upon a skin cell line, as it promoted cellular metabolism of HaCat cells, while traditionally died cotton reduced it by 10%. Last but not least, NTDs dyed cotton showed significant antimicrobial activity as it reduced viable counts of MRSA, MSSA and A. baumannii between 1 and 2 log of CFU while traditional dyed cotton had no antimicrobial activity. Considering these results the novel method proposed shows is a viable and ecological alternative for the development of antimicrobial textiles with potential biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increase in the popularity of craft beer, which is produced by small, independent, and traditional breweries. Since craft beer popularity is rising in Portugal this research focused on assessing physicochemical parameters, total phenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidant capacity of Portuguese craft beers and raw materials used in beer production. In this experimental study, 19 beer samples were analyzed. Parameters such as pH, Total Acidity, Reducing Sugar Content and TPC were evaluated. For the determination of antioxidant activity, DPPH scavenging activity and metal chelating activity (MCA) were analyzed in all samples. Craft beers demonstrated a high phenolic content (ranging from 343.78 mg GAE/L to 2172.49 mg GAE/L), significantly different from industrial beers. Craft beers demonstrated a higher inhibition of DPPH radicals and higher MCA than the raw materials. DPPH inhibition ranged from 36.5% to 96.0% for malt and 64.7% to 79.6% in hops samples. MCA also varied between the different samples, with results of 12.0% to 24.8% in malt samples and 3.8% to 23.5% in hops. Raw materials can potentially influence the antioxidant activity of the resulting beer. Positive correlations between TPC and physicochemical properties can be useful to help consumers choose beers with added value for health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally synthetic textile dyes are hazardous and toxic compounds devoid of any biological activity. As nanoencapsulation of yellow everzol textile dye with chitosan has been shown to produce biocompatible nanoparticles which were still capable of dyeing textiles, this work aims to further characterize the biocompatibility of yellow everzol nanoparticles (NPs) and to ascertain if the produced nanoencapsulated dyes possess any biological activity against various skin pathogens in vitro assays and in a cell infection model. The results showed that the NPs had no deleterious effects on the HaCat cells' metabolism and cell wall, contrary to the high toxicity of the dye. The biological activity evaluation showed that NPs had a significant antimicrobial activity, with low MICs (0.5–2 mg/mL) and MBCs (1–3 mg/mL) being registered. Additionally, NPs inhibited biofilm formation of all tested microorganisms (inhibitions between 30 and 87%) and biofilm quorum sensing. Lastly, the dye NPs were effective in managing MRSA infection of HaCat cells as they significantly reduced intracellular and extracellular bacterial counts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring measurable residual disease (MRD) is crucial to assess treatment response in Multiple Myeloma (MM). Detection of MRD in peripheral blood (PB) by exploring Extracellular Vesicles (EVs), and their cargo, would allow frequent and minimally invasive monitoring of MM. This work aims to detect biomarkers of MRD in EVs isolated from MM patient samples at diagnosis and remission and compare the MRD-associated content between BM and PB EVs. EVs were isolated by size-exclusion chromatography, concentrated by ultrafiltration, and characterized according to their size and concentration, morphology, protein concentration, and the presence of EV-associated protein markers. EVs from healthy blood donors were used as controls. It was possible to isolate EVs from PB and BM carrying MM markers. Diagnostic samples had different levels of MM markers between PB and BM paired samples, but no differences between PB and BM were found at remission. EVs concentration was lower in the PB of healthy controls than of patients, and MM markers were mostly not detected in EVs from controls. This study pinpoints the potential of PB EVs from MM remission patients as a source of MM biomarkers and as a non-invasive approach for monitoring MRD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several arguments have been made to substantiate the need for natural antimicrobials for the food industry. With blueberry extracts, the most compelling are both their healthy connotation and the possibility of obtaining a multipurpose solution that can be an antioxidant, colorant, and antimicrobial. From an antimicrobial perspective, as blueberry/anthocyanin-rich extracts have been associated with a capacity to inhibit harmful bacteria while causing little to no inhibition on potential probiotic microorganisms, the study of potential benefits that come from synergies between the extract and probiotics may be of particular interest. Therefore, the present work aimed to evaluate the effect of an anthocyanin-rich extract on the adhesion of five different probiotics as well as their effect on the probiotics' capacity to compete with or block pathogen adhesion to a mucin/BSA-treated surface. The results showed that, despite some loss of probiotic adhesion, the combined presence of extract and probiotic is more effective in reducing the overall amount of adhered viable pathogen cells than the PROBIOTIC alone, regardless of the probiotic/pathogen system considered. Furthermore, in some instances, the combination of the extract with Bifidobacterium animalis Bo allowed for almost complete inhibition of pathogen adhesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population growth has increased the production of municipal solid waste (MSW). The processes of degradation of MSW generate products poluants such as biogas. However, reforming biogas into biomethane for energy use can reduce impacts and increase energy supply. This study aimed to assess the technical and economic feasibility of using biomethane generated from landfills in the Southeastern region of Brazil to supply vehicles. The economic feasibility of this endeavor was verified using Net Present Value (NPV), and the Internal Rate of Return (IRR). We estimated Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission reductions by replacing diesel with biomethane, using a methodology proposed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. We analyzed 50 different landfill consortia. Consortia with installed capacity less than 5500 m³/day were economically unviable. The NPV ranged from around US$-20.00 million to US$120.00 million, while project IRR, with CAPEX from US$ 4 million, remains approximately constant, around 35%. Replacing diesel oil with biomethane produced can offset 29.14 trillion tons of CO 2eq emissions. Biomethane is one option for replacing fossil fuels. This study is innovative because it presents an analysis of biomethane's energy and economic potential in southeastern Brazil, the country's most developed region, helping develop the national biomethane market. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPP) have been shown to be efficient in the transport of cargoes into the cells, namely siRNA and DNA, proteins and peptides, and in some cases, small therapeutics. These peptides have emerged as a solution to increase drug concentrations in different tissues and various cell types, therefore having a relevant therapeutic relevance which led to clinical trials. One of them, MAP, is a model amphipathic peptide with an α-helical conformation and both hydrophilic and hydrophobic residues in opposite sides of the helix. It is composed of a mixture of alanines, leucines, and lysines (KLALKLALKALKAALKLA). The CPP MAP has the ability to translocate oligonucleotides, peptides and small proteins. However, taking advantage of its unique properties, in recent years innovative concepts were developed, such as in silico studies of modelling with receptors, coupling and repurposing drugs in the central nervous system and oncology, or involving the construction of dual-drug delivery systems using nanoparticles. In addition to designs of MAP-linked vehicles and strategies to achieve highly effective yet less toxic chemotherapy, this review will be focused on unique molecular structure and how it determines its cellular activity, and also intends to address the most recent and frankly motivating issues for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study describes the first isolation of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae ST16, Escherichia coli ST131 (Esc), and Enterobacter hormaechei subsp. steigerwaltii ST93 (Enterobacter cloacae complex [ECC]) in Sri Lanka. Eight MDR strains of uropathogenic Enterobacterales isolated from hospital acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs) were analyzed using genomic sequencing and comparative genomics. Isolates carried multiple carbapenemase, AmpC, and ESBL (extended-spectrum β-lactamase) genes. ECC manifested both blaNDM-4 and blaOXA-181. The K. pneumoniae strains harbored fimbrial genes that facilitate pathogenesis of UTI. Several extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli associated virulence genes were identified in Esc. The efflux pump gene, acrA, and the T6SS gene cluster were detected in ECC. Many antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence genes were identified associated with mobile genetic elements. ISEcp1 flanked upstream of blaCTX-M-15. The carbapenemase genes were carried on ColKP3 plasmids and were associated with ISEcp1. In Esc, the AMR gene blaTEM-1B and virulence gene traT were found on an IncF plasmid replicon. In K. pneumoniae the AMR genes sul1 and tetB present on IncR plasmid replicons and were associated with the insertion sequence IS6100. In Kp5, blaLAP-2 and qnrS1 coexisted and were flanked by ISEcl. AMR gene clusters, conferring resistance to multiple antimicrobial classes, flanked by mobile elements were identified in seven isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite improvements in the therapeutic approaches for hematological malignancies in the last decades, refractory disease still occurs, and cancer drug resistance still remains a major hurdle in the clinical management of these cancer patients. The investigation of this problem has been extensive and different mechanism and molecules have been associated with drug resistance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been described as having an important action in the emergence of cancer, including hematological tumors, and as being major players in their progression, aggressiveness and response to treatments. Moreover, miRNAs have been strongly associated with cancer drug resistance and with the modulation of the sensitivity of cancer cells to a wide array of anticancer drugs. Furthermore, this role has also been reported for miRNAs packaged into extracellular vesicles (EVs-miRNAs), which in turn have been described as essential for the horizontal transfer of drug resistance to sensitive cells. Several studies have been suggesting the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for drug response and clinical outcome prediction, as well as promising therapeutic tools in hematological diseases. Indeed, the combination of miRNA-based therapeutic tools with conventional drugs contributes to overcome drug resistance. This review addresses the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of hematological malignances, namely multiple myeloma, leukemias and lymphomas, highlighting their important action (either in their cell-free circulating form or within circulating EVs) in drug resistance and their potential clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus. Benzylamines are a class of compounds selectively designed to inhibit the squalene synthase (SQS) that catalyzes the first committed reaction on the sterol biosynthesis pathway. Herein, we studied seven new benzylamines (SBC 37–43) against Leishmania amazonensis. After the first screening of cell viability, two inhibitors (SBC 39 and SBC 40) were selected. Against intracellular amastigotes, SBC 39 and SBC 40 presented selectivity indexes of 117.7 and 180, respectively, indicating high selectivity. Analysis of the sterol composition revealed a depletion of endogenous 24-alkylated sterols such as episterol and 5-dehydroepisterol, with a concomitant accumulation of fecosterol, implying a disturbance in cellular lipid content. This result suggests a blockade of de novo sterol synthesis at the level of SQS and C-5 desaturase. Furthermore, physiological analysis and electron microscopy revealed three main alterations: (1) in the mitochondrion; (2) the presence of lipid bodies and autophagosomes; and (3) the appearance of projections in the plasma membrane. In conclusion, our results support the notion that benzylamines have a potent effect against Leishmania amazonensis and should be an exciting novel pharmaceutical lead for developing new chemotherapeutic alternatives to treat leishmaniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticulate systems have been widely investigated as delivery vectors for efficient drug delivery in different diseases. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) are composed of both solid and liquid lipids (glyceryl dibehenate and diethylene glycol monoethyl ether) and have demonstrated enhanced biological compatibility and increased drug loading capability. Furthermore, the use of peptides, in particular cell-penetrating peptides, to functionalize nanoparticles and enhance cell membrane permeation was explored in this paper. In this paper, we described the synthesis of a new conjugated of tranylcypromine with MAP. In addition, taking into consideration our previous results, this study developed different NLCs loaded with three central nervous system (CNS) drugs (tacrine (TAC), rasagiline (RAS), and tranylcypromine (TCP)) functionalized with model amphipathic peptide (MAP) and evaluated their activity against cancer cells. Particle size analysis demonstrated NLC presented less than 200 nm and a polydispersity index less than 0.3. Moreover, in vitro results showed that conjugation of MAP with drugs led to a higher decrease in cell viability of a neuroblastoma cell line and Caco-2 cell line, more than MAP alone. Furthermore, NLC encapsulation contributed to higher cellular delivery and enhanced toxic activity at lower concentrations when compared with free or co-administration drug-MAP conjugate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machado–Joseph disease (MJD), also known as spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder (ND). While most research in NDs has been following a neuron-centric point of view, microglia are now recognized as crucial in the brain. Previous work revealed alterations that point to an increased activation state of microglia in the brain of CMVMJD135 mice, a MJD mouse model that replicates the motor symptoms and neuropathology of the human condition. Here, we investigated the extent to which microglia are actively contributing to MJD pathogenesis and symptom progression. For this, we used PLX3397 to reduce the number of microglia in the brain of CMVMJD135 mice. In addition, a set of statistical and machine learning models were further implemented to analyze the impact of PLX3397 on the morphology of the surviving microglia. Then, a battery of behavioral tests was used to evaluate the impact of microglial depletion on the motor phenotype of CMVMJD135 mice. Although PLX3397 treatment substantially reduced microglia density in the affected brain regions, it did not affect the motor deficits seen in CMVMJD135 mice. In addition to reducing the number of microglia, the treatment with PLX3397 induced morphological changes suggestive of activation in the surviving microglia, the microglia of wild-type animals becoming similar to those of CMVMJD135 animals. These results suggest that microglial cells are not key contributors for MJD progression. Furthermore, the impact of PLX3397 on microglial activation should be taken into account in the interpretation of findings of ND modification seen upon treatment with this CSF1R inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic wounds are one of the most frequent complications that are associated with diabetes mellitus. The overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a key factor in the delayed healing of a chronic wound. In the present work, we develop a novel in situ-forming silk sericin-based hydrogel (SSH) that is produced by a simple methodology using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) crosslinking as an advanced dressing for wound healing. The antioxidant and angiogenic effects were assessed in vitro and in vivo after in situ application using an excisional wound-healing model in a genetically-induced diabetic db/db mice and though the chick embryo choriollantoic membrane (CAM) assay, respectively. Wounds in diabetic db/db mice that were treated with SSH closed with reduced granulation tissue, decreased wound edge distance, and wound thickness, when compared to Tegaderm, a dressing that is commonly used in the clinic. The hydrogel also promoted a deposition of collagen fibers with smaller diameter which may have had a boost effect in re-epithelialization. SSH treatment slightly induced two important endogenous antioxidant defenses, superoxide dismutase and catalase. A CAM assay made it possible to observe that SSH led to an increase in the number of newly formed vessels without inducing an inflammatory reaction. The present hydrogel may result in a multi-purpose technology with angiogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, while advancing efficient and organized tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have highlighted the positive effects of Estradiol (E2) replacement therapy and physical exercise on skeletal muscle during menopause. However, the comparison effects of exercise training (ET) and estradiol replacement therapy during menopause on skeletal muscle have not been investigated to date. This study aimed to compare the effects of endurance exercise training versus E2 replacement therapy on mitochondrial density, redox status, and inflammatory biomarkers in the skeletal muscle of ovariectomized rats. Thirty female Wistar rats (12-week-old) were randomly assigned into three groups: Untrained ovariectomized rats (UN-OVX, n = 10); untrained ovariectomized rats treated with estradiol replacement therapy (E2-OVX); and, trained ovariectomized rats (TR-OVX). After ovariectomy, the E2-OVX rats were treated subcutaneously with E2 (implanted Silastic® capsule containing 360 μg of 17β-estradiol/mL) while the TR-OVX group performed an exercise training protocol (50–70% of maximal running speed on a treadmill, 60 min/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks). After euthanasia, the soleus muscle was processed for histological and biochemical evaluations. Only exercise prevented the reduction of maximal oxygen consumption and increased mechanical efficiency (ME). While mitochondrial muscle density, total antioxidant capacity (FRAP), catalase (CAT) activity, and interleukin 10 levels were higher in TR-OVX, only OVX-E2 presented higher CAT activity and lower interleukin 6 levels. Endurance exercise training compared with E2 replacement therapy maintains the aerobic capacity improving the ME of OVX rats. In addition, only endurance exercise training raises the skeletal muscle mitochondrial content and tends to balance the redox and inflammatory status in the skeletal muscle of OVX rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functionalization of nanoparticles surfaces have been widely used to improve diagnostic and therapeutic biological outcome. Several methods can be applied to modify nanoparticle surface; however, in this article we focus toward a simple and less time-consuming method. We applied an adsorption method on already formulated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) to functionalize these nanoparticles with three distinct peptides sequences. We selected a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), a lysine modified model amphipathic peptide (Lys(N3)-MAP), CPP/drug complex, and the neuropeptide Y. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of several parameters such as peptide concentration, different types of NLC, different types of peptides, and incubation medium on the physicochemical proprieties of NLC and determine if adsorption occurs. The preliminary results from zeta potential analysis indicate some evidence that this method was successful in adsorbing three types of peptides onto NLC. Several non-covalent interactions appear to be involved in peptide adsorption with the possibility of three adsorption peptide hypothesis that may occur with NLC in solution. Moreover, and for the first time, in silico docking analysis demonstrated strong interaction between CPP MAP and NPY Y1 receptor with high score values when compared to standard antagonist and NPY. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supervision is a cross-disciplinary practice among various professional groups. This study focuses on clinical supervision as a practice linked to psychology and psychotherapy. The literature highlights the need to expand and consolidate knowledge in this area. Specifically, in the few existing approaches to research on existential supervision, the need for the systematization of knowledge is clear. The use of qualitative methods is recognized as an approach that is likely to enrich knowledge of supervision. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the theme of clinical supervision, particularly as it relates to existential psychotherapy, from the supervisor's perspective to assess insights from the experience of each participant. Method: The three participants are both existential psychotherapists and supervisors that apply the same approach, in group mode, in the context of psychotherapist training. The data were collected using phenomenological interviews. A comprehensive analysis of the transcripts of the interviews was performed using the phenomenological method. Results: Emerging themes presented a general meaning structure that represents eidetic dimensions and how they are related. The eidetic dimensions, relationship and responsiveness, arise in the existential approach as the foundational and promotional aspects of successful supervision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present research, we investigate whether cultural value orientations (CVOs) and aggregate personality traits (Big-5) predict actual levels of alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity across 50 countries using averages derived from millions of data points. Aggregate traits explained variance above and beyond CVOs in obesity (particularly neuroticism and extraversion), while CVOs explained variance beyond aggregate traits in alcohol consumption (particularly harmony and hierarchy). Smoking was not linked to aggregated traits or CVOs. We conclude that an understanding of the cultural correlates of risky health behaviors may help inform important policies and interventions for meeting international sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Machado–Joseph disease (MJD), or spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), is the most common autosomal dominantly‐inherited ataxia worldwide and is characterised by the accumulation of mutant ataxin‐3 (mutATXN3) in different brain regions, leading to neurodegeneration. Currently, there are no available treatments able to block disease progression. In this study, we investigated whether carbamazepine (CBZ) would activate autophagy and mitigate MJD pathology. Methods: The autophagy‐enhancing activity of CBZ and its effects on clearance of mutATXN3 were evaluated using in vitro and in vivo models of MJD. To investigate the optimal treatment regimen, a daily or intermittent CBZ administration was applied to MJD transgenic mice expressing a truncated human ATXN3 with 69 glutamine repeats. Motor behaviour tests and immunohistology was performed to access the alleviation of MJD‐associated motor deficits and neuropathology. A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the CBZ effect in MJD patients. Results: We found that CBZ promoted the activation of autophagy and the degradation of mutATXN3 in MJD models upon short or intermittent, but not daily prolonged, treatment regimens. CBZ up‐regulated autophagy through activation of AMPK, which was dependent on the myo‐inositol levels. In addition, intermittent CBZ treatment improved motor performance, as well as prevented neuropathology in MJD transgenic mice. However, in patients, no evident differences in SARA scale were found, which was not unexpected given the small number of patients included in the study. Conclusions: Our data support the autophagy‐enhancing activity of CBZ in the brain and suggest this pharmacological approach as a promising therapy for MJD and other polyglutamine disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Gliadin expression is conserved in pigmented and non-pigmented wheat; • Quantitatively, the relative abundance of specific gliadins varies between samples; • Distribution and weight of peptides containing T-cell epitopes is grain-specific; • Anthocyanin upregulation correlated with a lower immunotoxicity of gliadins. Pigmented wheat varieties (Triticum aestivum spp.) are getting increasingly popular in modern nutrition and thoroughly researched for their functional and nutraceutical value. The colour of these wheat grains is caused by the expression of natural pigments, including carotenoids and anthocyanins, that can be restricted to either the endosperm, pericarp and/or aleurone layers. While contrasts in phytochemical synthesis give rise to variations among purple, blue, dark and yellow grain's antioxidant and radical scavenging capacities, little is known about their influence on gluten proteins expression, digestibility and immunogenic potential in a Celiac Disease (CD) framework. Herein, it has been found that the expression profile and immunogenic properties of gliadin proteins in pigmented wheat grains might be affected by anthocyanins and carotenoids upregulation, and that the spectra of peptide released upon simulated gastrointestinal digestion is also significantly different. Interestingly, anthocyanin accumulation, as opposed to carotenoids, correlated with a lower immunogenicity and toxicity of gliadins at both protein and peptide levels. Altogether, this study provides first-level evidence on the impact modern breeding practices, seeking higher expression levels of health promoting phytochemicals at the grain level, may have on wheat crops functionality and CD tolerability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hospitalizations due to Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions (ACSC) have been used as an indicator of access to primary care and monitoring of its performance. Objective: To analyze the behavioral trend of ACSC among elderly in Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2010 to 2015. Method: Ecological study based on data from the Hospital Information System (SIH) of the Unified Health System (SUS), concerning the hospitalization of the elderly aged 60-79 years. ACSC rates were calculated, global, specific by ACSC and by health administrative region. Results: A total of 126,757 ACSC occurred in the period (8.8% of all hospitalizations by SUS). The overall rate decreased from 10.4 to 9.4 (p/1,000). The causes of hospitalization showed a reduction in the risk of hospitalization for hypertension, nutritional deficiencies, and infectious gastroenteritis, but increased the risk of hospitalization for kidney and urinary tract infection. The ACSC rates also varied according to the health regions: regions with low population density, lower per capita GDP and worse health infrastructure showed higher rates. Conclusion: The variation of the indicator among health regions may reflect socioeconomic disparities and the organization and supply of health services. Raising inpatient rates for some of the ACSC may indicate the need for PHC services to increase efforts to care for the elderly who suffer from comorbidity more often. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between lifestyle factors and mental health has been evaluated in isolation; however, there has been a lack of information about lifestyle patterns and Common Mental Disorders (CMD) in adolescents. Therefore, the present study aims to assess the association between sets of lifestyle patterns and the occurrence of CMD in Brazilian adolescents evaluated in a national school-based cross-sectional survey. The outcome variable considered was presence of CMD. Lifestyle patterns were identified from the Principal Component Analysis. Consumption of foods, water and alcoholic beverages, sleep, physical activity, and smoking were used to identify patterns as explanatory variables. Sociodemographic characteristics, administrative dependence of the school and, nutritional status, were considered adjustment factors in the regression model. A total of 70,427 adolescents were evaluated. The principal component analysis identified three lifestyle patterns: high consumption of ultra-processed foods and low consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods (pattern 1); high consumption of alcoholic beverages and tobacco in the last 30 days (pattern 2); and high consumption of water and high level of physical activity (pattern 3). In the adjusted model, in patterns 1 and 2, the third tertile presented greater chance of CMD (OR 1.68; CI 95% 1.51–1.87 and OR 1.38; CI 95% 1.19–1.60, respectively). In pattern 3, the second (OR 0.88; CI 95% 0.80–0.96) and the third (OR 0.80; CI 95% 0.72–0.88) tertiles presented lower chances of CMD among the adolescents evaluated. Therefore, we suggest that health-promoting practices aimed at adolescents include multiple behaviors, with the objective of ensuring physical, mental, and social well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, the excessive consumption of fat and/or sugar has increased considerably. Palatable high-fat diets (HFDs) lead to metabolic disturbances and obesity, and impact emotional and cognitive processes. Previous studies in rodent models suggested that HFDs often cause multiple behavioral alterations, such as learning and memory deficits, and anxiety-like behaviors. Different sexes imply different behavioral and cognitive abilities; yet, most of these studies dealt with male or ovariectomized rats. We evaluated HFD effects in female rats submitted to different behavioral tasks, considering the effects of endogenous hormonal variations throughout estrous cycle. Female Wistar rats in each phase of the estrous cycle using commercial chow (CC) or HFD for 32 days. During treatment, behavioral assessments using sucrose preference (SP), elevated plus-maze (EPM), open field (OF) and novel-object recognition (NOR). At the end of the behavioral tests, animals were euthanized, and performed an immunohistochemical analysis of the brains by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). The main results demonstrated that (1) HFD-fed rats had higher body mass gain and food intake, without altering caloric intake, (2) rats in diestrus had lower sucrose intake, (3) females in metestrus and diestrus showed deficits in the novel-object recognition memory. Furthermore, TH-immunoreactivity decreased in the dorsal striatum and BDNF in the hippocampus in HFD-fed females. These results suggest that HFD alters neurochemical and metabolic aspects that may induce phase-dependent behavioral changes in female rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serious allergic reactions to vaccines are rare and difficult to predict. An allergic reaction can be defined as an idiosyncratic reaction caused by an immune mechanism. The World Allergy Organization (WAO) has recommended categorizing immune reactions to drugs (including vaccines) based on when symptoms appear. Patients who experience vaccine reactions that may have represented immediate IgEmediated allergic reactions should be referred to an allergist for evaluation, if possible. Studies have shown that puncture and intradermal tests with Pfizer's full-strength COVID-19 mRNA vaccine are non-irritating. Negative skin test results would indicate that the reaction may not have been mediated by IgE, and administration of the second dose in the usual manner under observation may be considered. The administration of second doses in these circumstances requires shared decision making with the patient, weighing the risk of a vaccine reaction against the risk of remaining inadequately vaccinated against COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Analyze the introduction of forensic nursing during nursing graduation by utilizing the perception of students close to graduating. Methods: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach. There were 23 nursing students close to graduating who took part in this study. Data collection was done with a structured questionnaire and the analysis thematic-categorical was done. Results: The analysis highlighted two categories: "Enfermería forense: tema ausente en la graduación" and; "Repercussions at professional procedures". The absence of contact with the topic was expressed by 95,65% of the students; 60,21% affirmed being capacitated, however they only mentioned physical violence. Still, 52,1% reported seeking information in external sources. Conclusion: Forensic nursing is rarely addressed in the setting, being offered in a discipline that deals with violence in a peripheral way. This result may be associated with the recent insertion of the theme in the Brazilian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetive: The purpose of this work was to describe the physical, cytological and biochemical characteristics, as well as to classify the pleural fluids of patients with COVID-19 as exudates or transudates. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out. Data was collected from the cytochemical examination of pleural fluid samples processed between the months of April to September 2020, in the laboratory of the Emergency Center of Metropolitan Lima (CELIM). Results: During the study period, a total of 81 samples of pleural fluid from patients with COVID-19 were evaluated, of these, 26 met our eligibility criteria. Fourteen liquids (54%) had a red color and 18 (69%) had a cloudy appearance. Exudative pleural fluids were the majority (n = 17), total proteins presented a mean of 3.3 g / dl (SD: 1.5), LDH a median of 544 U / L (IQR: 262-2016), the leukocyte count had a median of 610 leukocytes / ul (IQR: 180-968) and the differential polymorphonuclear count a median 29% (IQR: 15-60). Regarding the clinical characteristics, of the total exudates, 41% corresponded to neoplasms and 23% to pneumonia. While, of the total transudates (n = 9), 45% came from patients with neoplasms. Conclusions: In our study we observed that most of the pleural fluid samples from patients with COVID-19 were classified as exudates. These presented a low differential leukocyte percentage of polymorphonuclear cells. The values of the biochemical parameters such as total proteins and LDH were adequately related to the classification of exudates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swimming performance is a determinant characteristic for the survival of fish species and is related to their response to environmental disturbance. In this study, we evaluated how seasonal environmental variability of Mediterranean intermittent rivers influences swimming performance of a resident Iberian fish, the ruivaco, Achondrostoma oligolepis. Approximately forty fish of A. oligolepis were captured in each annual season (i.e. winter, spring, summer and autumn), from a Portuguese intermittent river, and compared in terms of swimming behaviour and capacity (Ucrit test). We found a clear distinction in fish willingness to swim and swimming performance between seasons. Fish were more willing to swim during autumn and winter, as opposed to less energetic behaviour during spring and summer. Higher Ucrit values were observed during autumn (0.42 ± 0.17 m/s) and winter (0.48 ± 0.25 m/s), which in the studied river are typically characterised by high flows, strongly influenced by rainfall patterns. Results from this study contribute to increase the knowledge on movement dynamics of small, typically known as resident, fish species and how this relates to natural and seasonal environmental variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a multi-omics understanding of the proteomic profile, immunogenic potential, and oxidative properties of physiologically representative gliadin peptides is provided. [Display omitted] • The digestibility of gliadins is significantly dependent on the activity of pepsin. • In the absence of gastric digestion, gliadins become more toxic to the intestine. • Gliadin pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory effects depend on the cell model used. It has been increasingly demonstrated over the past few years that some proteolytically resistant gluten peptides may directly affect intestinal cell structure and functions by modulating pro-inflammatory gene expression and oxidative stress. The relationship between oxidative cell damage and Celiac Disease (CD) is supported by several studies on human intestinal epithelial cell lines, such as the Caco-2 cell model, already shown to be particularly sensitive to the pro-oxidative and pro-apoptotic properties of gluten protein digests. Through providing valuable evidence concerning some of the pathophysiological mechanisms that may be at play in gluten-related disorders, most of these in vitro studies have been employing simplified digestion schemes and intestinal cell systems that do not fully resemble mature enterocytes in terms of their characteristic tight junctions, microvilli and membrane transporters. Herein the peptide profile and pro-oxidative effect of two different gastrointestinal gliadin digestions was thoroughly characterized and comprehensively compared: one following the complete INFOGEST workflow and a second one by-passing gastric processing, to assess the dependence of gliadin-triggered downstream cell effects on pepsin activity. In both matrices, gluten-derived immunogenic peptide sequences were identified by non-targeted LC-MS/MS. Altogether, this study provides first-hand data concerning the still unexplored peptide composition, gastric-dependence and immunogenicity of physiologically representative gliadin protein digests as well as foundational clues stressing the need for more complex and integrated in vitro cell systems when modelling and exploiting gluten-induced perturbations in the nucleophilic tone and inflammatory status of intestinal epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Leishmaniasis, one of the most significant neglected diseases around the world, is caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus. Nowadays, the available aetiological treatments for leishmaniasis have variable effectiveness and several problems such as serious side effects, toxicity, high cost and an increasing number of resistance cases. Thus, there is an urgent need for safe, oral and cost-effective drugs for leishmaniases. Previously, our group has shown the effect of the ergosterol biosynthesis inhibitors on Leishmania amazonensis. Herein, we showed the effect of ravuconazole against L. amazonensis; ravuconazole is a second-generation triazole antifungal drug that has good bioavailability after oral administration and a long terminal half-life in humans, a broad activity spectrum, high effectiveness in treatment of mycosis and negligible side effects.Methods: Several methodologies were used: cell culture, fluorescence and electron microscopy, high-resolution capillary GC coupled with MS, fluorimetry and flow cytometry.Results: Our results showed that ravuconazole was able to inhibit the proliferation of L. amazonensis promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes in vitro, with single-digit to sub-micromolar IC50 values, causing several alterations in the morphology, ultrastructure, cell viability and physiology of the parasites. The mitochondrion was significantly affected by the treatment, resulting in a collapse of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential that consequently led to inhibition of ATP production, combined with an increase in reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial superoxide production; by transmission electron microscopy, the organelle displayed a completely altered ultrastructure. The treatment changed the lipid profile, showing a profound depletion of the 14-desmethyl endogenous sterol pool.Conclusions: These results suggest that ravuconazole could be an alternative option for the treatment of leishmaniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autobiographical remembering develops in childhood. A late-developing cognitive tool is the cultural life script. The present study aimed at exploring the beginnings of its acquisition and at replicating its acquisition in early adolescence in a Southern-European culture. Study 1 established the Portuguese normative adult cultural life script, against which the cultural life scripts provided by 6- to 16-year-olds could be compared in Study 2. The acquisition of the cultural life script in early to mid-adolescence was confirmed with multiple indicators. In 6- to 8-year olds, life script knowledge was only rudimentary. However, children still agreed highly on a set of mostly non-normative life events which they named as typical for a normal life that are not part of the adult life script. We conclude that children's non-normative concept of life is less helpful for remembering, narrating, and planning a life than is the adult cultural life script with normative events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease clinically characterized by progressive loss of memory, impairment cognitive function, and neuropsychiatric and behavior dysfunction. The molecular pathology of the disease is characterized with extracellular accumulation of amyloid β plaques and neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated Tau. Even with crescent number of AD patients worldwide, the current treatment approved does not alter the course of the disease but rather controls the symptoms. In addition to this, also present poor solubility and low bioavailability. Therefore, several studies have been exploring new delivery systems to efficiently deliver those drugs and enhance biological activity. Among them, nanoparticulated systems have demonstrated great potential as a drug delivery system in neurodegenerative disease. In this review, we will reflect on the current progress of nanoparticulated systems with an overall particle size ranging from 2 up to 200 nm and potential to deliver AD drugs for AD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological parenthood is a central life-goal for many couples that can become blocked when they experience infertility. Many couples who undergo fertility treatment will face failure and consequently have to decide whether to continue with treatment. The present study used the qualitative methodology of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to examine self-regulatory approaches that underlie decision-making about continuing treatment. One-time, one-on-one, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 16 individuals (eight heterosexual couples) after they had experienced at least one treatment failure and were considering whether to undergo another treatment. After treatment failure, individuals used several approaches to remain engaged with biological parenthood, including reframing treatment failure as a learning tool and emphasizing the importance of persistence in achieving success. The apparent decision to continue with treatment was considered non-negotiable and largely made by women in the partnership. Once the decision was made to pursue treatment, it was not discussed further. Given individuals' willingness to engage in treatment, patients should be offered additional support to consider wide psychosocial implications of continuing treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils are products obtained from plants, by steam distillation, mechanical processes of citrus fruit epicarp, or dry distillation after separation of the aqueous phase by physical processes. They are usually composed of secondary metabolites of aromatic plants with oxygenated structures such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, and esters, presenting therapeutic properties such as antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities. Essential oils are used in the pharmaceutical, food, and fragrance industries. The increasing use of plants by the pharmaceutical industry makes the study of essential oils crucial to design new bioactive delivery systems. This paper presents aliterature review that summarizes the best advanced data regarding the use of essential oils and their volatile constituents for biomedical applications with focuses on innovative pharmaceutical formulations. Nonetheless, it seems clear that more clinical evaluations are required until essential oils can be considered as possible applications in pharmacy or as adjuvants to current medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engaging workers with their work is fundamental for employee wellbeing and performance. Perceived age discrimination in the workplace is a factor that may influence workers’ engagement. The present study aimed to analyze the moderating role of emotion regulation in the relationship between perceived age discrimination and work engagement. Survey data were collected from a sample of 453 Portuguese workers of various age groups, between 18 and 65 years-old. Four instruments were used in this study: (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire; (b) the Workplace Age Discrimination Scale (WADS); (c) the Emotion Regulation Scale and (d) the reduced version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9). Results show that perceived workplace age discrimination negatively impacts work engagement. Further, results suggest that emotional regulation exacerbates the negative relationship between perceived age discrimination and work engagement. The progressively aging workforce is creating challenging issues to organizations, from a human resource management perspective. Age management strategies to address perceived age discrimination and work engagement are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focused on reflecting about the relevance of the graphic dimension in the reception of the short story The Story of the Three Little Pigs, the study deals with the analysis of some books created based on this hypothesis, having as a textual corpus a set of publications translated into Portuguese, of varying authorship and chronologically dispersed: a revision of the book of Czech artist Vojtěch Kubašta (1914-1992), distributed by Electroliber, three contemporary books by Porto Editora, two books by Yoyobooks, an edition of Girassol and a rewriting by Booksmile. Situated within the scope of literary studies, more specifically, around children's literature, in conjunction with illustration and design, it aims at analyse the main verbal-iconic and graphic singularities, in conjunction with an approach of graphic elements and/or peritextuals that differentiate some volumes of the referred short story, thus contributing to the reflection around one of the most striking trends in contemporary childhood publishing, marked by the imagetic, graphic and playful growth of the object-book. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, morphological, anatomical and material dimension has a special emphasis on children's books, in opposition to the traditional deference attributed to the verbal component, substantiated in objects, often playful, hybrids, originals that defy any attempts at a definition and a categorization by the investigation. Having as central reference the volume Agradar e tocar: ensaio sobre a sociedade da sedução, by Gilles Lipovetsky, dedicated to the analysis of the bases of hypermodern society, this study focuses, particularly, on the short story Hop-o'-My-Thumb or The Boots of Seven Leagues, universally disseminated since 1697, by Charles Perrault, a text revisited here in four object books aimed at children, namely As Botas das Sete Léguas, by Vojtěch Kubašta; Polegarzinho e as Botas das Sete Léguas, illustrated by Truus Vinger, both edited by Electroliber; O Pequeno Polegar, by Booksmile, and O Muito Grande Pequeno Polegar, illustrated by Clémentine Sourdais, and translated by Edicare. It is intended, in this way, to reflect on the main singularities of these works or of these verbal-iconic and graphic reconfigurations, mainly based on the exploration of the materiality of the object book, through which it is revisited at an aesthetic and sensory level, a playful narrative centered on the theme of child death and abandonment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]