High-fat diet consumption negatively influences closed-head traumatic brain injury in a pediatric rodent model.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most common causes of emergency room visits in children, and it is a leading cause of death in juveniles in the United States. Similarly, a high proportion of this population consumes diets that are high in saturated fats, and millions of children are overweight or obese. The goal of the present study was to assess the relationship between diet and TBI on cognitive and cerebrovascular outcomes in juvenile rats. In the current study, groups of juvenile male Long Evans rats were subjected to either mild TBI via the Closed-Head Injury Model of Engineered Rotational Acceleration (CHIMERA) or underwent sham procedures. The animals were provided with either a combination of high-fat diet and a mixture of high-fructose corn syrup (HFD/HFCS) or a standard chow diet (CH) for 9 days prior to injury. Prior to injury, the animals were trained on the Morris water maze for three consecutive days, and they underwent a post-injury trial on the day of the injury. Immediately after TBI, the animals' righting reflexes were tested. Four days post-injury, the animals were euthanized, and brain samples and blood plasma were collected for qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and triglyceride assays. Additional subsets of animals were used to investigate cerebrovascular perfusion using Laser Speckle and perform immunohistochemistry for endothelial cell marker RECA. Following TBI, the righting reflex was significantly increased in TBI rats, irrespective of diet. The TBI worsened the rats' performance in the post-injury trial of the water maze at 3 h, p(injury) < 0.05, but not at 4 days post-injury. Reduced cerebrovascular blood flow using Laser Speckle was demonstrated in the cerebellum, p(injury) < 0.05, but not foci of the cerebral cortices or superior sagittal sinus. Immunoreactive staining for RECA in the cortex and corpus callosum was significantly reduced in HFD/HFCS TBI rats, p < 0.05. qRT-PCR showed significant increases in APOE, CREB1, FCGR2B, IL1B, and IL6, particularly in the hippocampus. The results from this study offer robust evidence that HFD/HFCS negatively influences TBI outcomes with respect to cognition and cerebrovascular perfusion of relevant brain regions in the juvenile rat.

Validation of "CENTR(AR)" walking trails: Different field criteria do not lead to different physical activity intensities in people with COPD.

BACKGROUND: Validating walking trails is essential to promote physical activity (PA) safely and confidently in people with COPD. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to validate predetermined light, moderate, and vigorous intensities of walking trails in people with COPD. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included individuals with COPD walking in predetermined light, moderate and vigorous intensity trails. Activity intensity and volume outcomes were collected. Dyspnoea and fatigue (modified Borg scale), energy expenditure (EE, Sensewear), heart rate (HR, HR monitor), time spent in different PA intensities, and cadence (ActiGraph) were recorded and used to classify PA intensity. RESULTS: Twenty people with COPD [71(7) years, 80 % male, FEV1%predicted 65.6(11.6)] were included. Fatigue differed significantly between light and moderate [3.0(2.0;4.0) vs 3.4(2.5;4.5), p = 0.01], but not vigorous (3.5[2.5-4.0]) tracks. Dyspnoea [2.3(1.5) vs 2.7(1.6) vs 2.6(1.4)], EE [5.1(0.8) vs 4.9(0.5) vs 4.6(0.8) METs], HR [92.5(11.1) vs 93.7(18.6) vs 95.4(15.0) beats/min] and cadence [115.1(104.0;120.3) vs 104.7(99.6;117.6) vs 111.2(99.9;118.5) steps/min] were similar across trails (p > 0.05). Time spent in light and moderate PA, EE volume, walking time, and step count increased along with the proposed intensity levels (p < 0.01). Walking trails were categorised as moderate intensity in most participants. CONCLUSION: Walking trails were safe and valid for practising moderate-intensity PA in people with COPD. Participants adjusted their physiological responses and perceived symptoms to match a moderate intensity.

Cerebral and Peripheral Immune Cell Changes following Rodent Juvenile Traumatic Brain Injury.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of death and disability. TBI is associated with neuroinflammation, but temporal changes in immune and inflammatory signaling following TBI have not been fully elucidated. Furthermore, there have been no previous studies on changes in immune cell populations following TBI via the Closed Head Injury Model of Engineered Rotational Acceleration (CHIMERA). The current study aimed to determine the time course changes to inflammatory marker mRNA expression in the acute period following TBI in juvenile rats and to determine acute changes to brain and circulating immune cell populations. For this study, post-natal day (PND)-30 male Long Evans rats sustained a TBI or Sham TBI and were euthanized at 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, or 96 h post-injury. Prefrontal cortex and hippocampus samples were used to determine mRNA expression changes of inflammatory factors. The mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α was significantly elevated at 6 h post-injury in both regions evaluated. To evaluate immune cell populations, male Long Evans rats were euthanized at 48 h post-injury, and brain and blood samples were used for cell sorting by marker-specific antibodies. In the peripheral blood, there was an elevation in CD3+ total T cells, CD45R+ total B cells, and CD3+CD4+ helper T cells in the TBI subjects. However, there were no changes to natural killer cells or CD3+CD8+ cytotoxic T cell populations. In the brain, there was a reduction in CD11b/c+ monocytes/macrophages, but no changes in other immune cell populations. At 48 h post-injury, the TBI subjects also demonstrated expansion of the thymic medulla. These changes in the cerebral and blood immune cell populations and thymic medulla expansion may implicate the subacute recovery timeframe as a vulnerable window for the immune system in the pediatric population.

Environmental impact assessment of the electrokinetic adsorption barriers to remove different herbicides from agricultural soils.

In this study, the sustainability of the electrokinetic remediation soil flushing (EKSFs) process integrated without and with adsorption barriers (EKABs) have been evaluated for the treatment of four soils contaminated with Atrazine, Oxyfluorfen, Chlorosulfuron and 2,4-D. To this purpose, the environmental effects of both procedures (EKSFs and EKABs) have been determined through a life cycle assessment (LCA). SimaPro 9.3.0.3 was used as software tool and Ecoinvent 3.3 as data base to carry out the inventory of the equipment of each remediation setup based on experimental measurements. The environmental burden was quantified using the AWARE, USEtox, IPPC, and ReCiPe methods into 3 Endpoint impact categories (and damage to human health, ecosystem and resources) and 7 Midpoints impact categories (water footprint, global warming potential, ozone depletion, human toxicity (cancer and human non-cancer), freshwater ecotoxicity and terrestrial ecotoxicity). In general terms, the energy applied to treatment (using the Spanish energy mix) was the parameter with the greatest influence on the carbon footprint, ozone layer depletion and water footprint accounting for around 70 % of the overall impact contribution. On the other hand, from the point of view of human toxicity and freshwater ecotoxicity of soil treatments with 32 mg kg-1 of the different pesticides, the EKSF treatment is recommended for soils with Chlorosulfuron. In this case, the carbon footprint and water footprint reached values around 0.36 kg of CO2 and 114 L of water per kg of dry soil, respectively. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was performed assuming different scenarios.

PHOTH-graphene: a new 2D carbon allotrope with low barriers for Li-ion mobility.

The continued interest in 2D carbon allotropes stems from their unique structural and electronic characteristics, which are crucial for diverse applications. This work theoretically introduces PHOTH-Graphene (PHOTH-G), a novel 2D planar carbon allotrope formed by 4-5-6-7-8 carbon rings. PHOTH-G emerges as a narrow band gap semiconducting material with low formation energy, demonstrating good stability under thermal and mechanical conditions. This material has slight mechanical anisotropy with Young modulus and Poisson ratios varying between 7.08-167.8 GPa and 0.21-0.96. PHOTH-G presents optical activity restricted to the visible range. Li atoms adsorbed on its surface have a migration barrier averaging 0.38 eV.

Relato de experiência de atendimentos em psicoterapia breve a partir da Abordagem Centrada na Pessoa: o cuidado ao processo de luto / Experience report of brief psychotherapy sessions from the person-centered approach: caring for the bereavement process of a family / Informe de experiencia de sesiones breves de psicoterapia desde el enfoque centrado en la persona: atención al proceso de duelo de un familiar

INTRODUÇÃO: A psicoterapia breve tem sido um importante recurso no atendimento aos casos de luto relacionados à perda de um familiar, de modo que estudos têm evidenciado a necessidade de aprofundamento nesta modalidade de atendimento. OBJETIVO: Este artigo tem como objetivo a apresentação e discussão de um relato de experiência de atendimento em psicoterapia breve a partir da Abordagem Centrada na Pessoa (ACP) e tem como tema central o processo de luto. METODOLOGIA: O relato de experiência se referiu a um processo de atendimento psicoterápico que ocorreu através do Projeto de Acolhimento da Universidade Federal da Bahia, entre setembro e dezembro de 2022, totalizando 10 encontros, sendo uma sessão semanal com duração de 50 minutos cada. Os atendimentos foram realizados remotamente. Através do relato de experiência, este trabalho buscou compreender o processo de luto de um familiar sob a luz do Modelo do Processo Dual do Luto, analisando a experiência da psicóloga no processo psicoterápico breve. RESULTADOS: Como resultados principais, observou-se que o processo de luto é um fenômeno natural e complexo e deve ser compreendido dentro das particularidades contextuais e culturais de cada indivíduo/família. CONCLUSÃO: Concluiu-se pontuando a importância da temática do luto na formação dos profissionais de saúde, em especial daqueles que lidam com essa demanda na sua prática profissional.

INTRODUCTION: Brief psychotherapy has been an important resource in the care of bereavement cases related to the loss of a family member, thus studies have shown the need to deepen this modality of care OBJECTIVE: This article aims to present and discuss an experience report of brief psychotherapy care from the person-centered approach, which has as its central theme the grieving process. METHODOLOGY: The experience report referred to a psychotherapeutic service that took place through the Projeto de Acolhimento da Universidade Federal da Bahia, between September and December 2022, totaling 10 meetings, with a weekly session lasting 50 minutes each. The consultations were carried out remotely. Through an experience report, this paper sought to understand the grieving process of a family member under the Dual Grief Process Model, analyzing the psychologist's experience in the brief psychotherapeutic process. RESULTS: As the main results, the study observed that the grieving process is a natural and complex phenomenon. In this sense, the necessary study points to understanding the grieving process within the contextual and cultural particularities of each individual/family. CONCLUSION: It was concluded by pointing out the importance of the theme of mourning in the training of health professionals, especially those who deal with this demand in their professional practice.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La psicoterapia breve ha sido un recurso importante en la atención de casos de duelo relacionados con la pérdida de un familiar, por lo que los estudios han mostrado la necesidad de profundizar en esta modalidad de atención. OBJETIVO: Este artículo tiene como objetivo presentar y discutir un relato de experiencia de atención psicoterapéutica breve desde el enfoque centrado en la persona, que tiene como tema central el proceso de duelo. METODOLOGÍA: El informe de la experiencia se refirió a un servicio psicoterapéutico que tuvo lugar a través del Projeto de Acolhimento da Universidade Federal da Bahia, entre septiembre y diciembre de 2022, con un total de 10 reuniones, con una sesión semanal de 50 minutos cada una. Las consultas se realizaron a distancia. A través del relato de la experiencia, este trabajo trató de comprender el proceso de duelo de un familiar a la luz del Modelo Dual de Proceso de Duelo, analizando la experiencia de la psicóloga en el proceso psicoterapéutico breve. RESULTADOS: Como principales resultados, se concluyó que el proceso de duelo es necesario, delicado y debe ser comprendido dentro de las particularidades contextuales y culturales de cada individuo/familia. CONCLUSIÓN: Se concluyó señalando la importancia del tema del duelo en la formación de los profesionales de la salud, especialmente de aquellos que atienden esta demanda en su práctica profesional.

Tuberculosis: Cliché or Outsider?

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease with the potential for multisystemic dissemination, including the central nervous system (CNS). It is difficult to diagnose when the central nervous system is involved. Brain biopsy is the diagnostic method par excellence for diagnostic confirmation; however, as it is an invasive method and therefore not free from risks, before carrying it out, extra-CNS sites should be privileged, whenever available, through mycobacteriological culture. Here, we present a case of a 34-year-old female with chronic onset of neurologic semiology, whose diagnostic evolution culminated in the diagnosis of cerebral tuberculomas and miliary tuberculosis. Rapid commencement of antibacillaty therapy led to the resolution of the neurologic deficits. Although we face a cliché clinical presentation, in the sense that is very common, the authors consider it outsider because such a presentation is rarely seen in Portugal.

Proposing TODD-graphene as a novel porous 2D carbon allotrope designed for superior lithium-ion battery efficiency.

The category of 2D carbon allotropes has gained considerable interest due to its outstanding optoelectronic and mechanical characteristics, which are crucial for various device applications, including energy storage. This study uses density functional theory calculations, ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), and classical reactive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to introduce TODD-Graphene, an innovative 2D planar carbon allotrope with a distinctive porous arrangement comprising 3-8-10-12 carbon rings. TODD-G exhibits intrinsic metallic properties with a low formation energy and stability in thermal and mechanical behavior. Calculations indicate a substantial theoretical capacity for adsorbing Li atoms, revealing a low average diffusion barrier of 0.83 eV. The metallic framework boasts excellent conductivity and positioning TODD-G as an active layer for superior lithium-ion battery efficiency. Charge carrier mobility calculations for electrons and holes in TODD-G surpass those of graphene. Classical reactive MD simulation results affirm its structural integrity, maintaining stability without bond reconstructions at 2200 K.

Lofgren Syndrome: Achieving an Accurate Diagnosis for Improved Patient Care.

Lofgren syndrome is a clinically distinct phenotype of sarcoidosis. It is characterized by the triad of bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, arthritis (usually the ankles), and fever. We present the case of a 31-year-old male patient who presented with fever and edema in both lower limbs, with palpation of subcutaneous nodules. A chest contrast-enhanced computerized axial tomography (CECT) scan revealed perihilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. In making the diagnosis, tuberculosis and lymphoma were both ruled out. A mediastinoscopy confirmed Lofgren syndrome. In medicine, a good differential diagnosis is important, as it will help inform the best treatment for the patient.

Computed Tomography Evaluation of Frozen or Glycerinated Bradypus variegatus Cadavers: A Comprehensive View with Emphasis on Anatomical Aspects.

Bradypus variegatus has unique anatomical characteristics, and many of its vascular and digestive tract aspects have yet to be clearly understood. This lack of information makes clinical diagnoses and surgical procedures difficult. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical aspects of frozen and glycerinated corpses of B. variegatus using computed tomography (CT), emphasizing vascular and digestive contrast studies. Nine corpses that died during routine hospital were examined via CT in the supine position with scanning in the craniocaudal direction. In frozen cadavers, the contrast was injected into a cephalic vein after thawing and, subsequently, was administered orally. In addition to bone structures, CT allowed the identification of organs, soft tissues, and vascular structures in specimens. Visualization of soft tissues was better after contrast been administered intravenously and orally, even without active vascularization. Furthermore, the surfaces of the organs were highlighted by the glycerination method. With this technique, it was possible to describe part of the vascularization of the brachial, cervical, thoracic, and abdominal regions, in addition to highlighting the esophagus and part of the stomach. CT can be another tool for the evaluation of B. variegatus cadavers by anatomists or pathologists, contributing to the identification of anatomical structures.

Investigating luxS gene expression in lactobacilli along lab-scale cocoa fermentations.

Previous metagenomic analyses have suggested that lactobacilli present potential for Quorum Sensing (QS) in cocoa fermentation, and in the present research, laboratory scale fermentations were carried out to monitor the expression of luxS, a universal marker of QS. For that, 96 h-fermentations were studied, as follows: F0 (non inoculated control), F1 (inoculated with yeasts, lactic acid bacteria, and acetic acid bacteria), F2 (inoculated with yeasts and acetic acid bacteria), F3 (inoculated with yeasts only). The parameters evaluated were: plate counting, quantification of key enzymes and analysis of volatile organic compounds associated with key sensory descriptors, using headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Furthermore, QS was estimated by the quantification of the expression of luxS genes by Reverse Transcriptase Real-Time PCR. The results demonstrated that microbial succession occurred in pilot scale fermentations, but no statistical differences for microbial enumeration and α-diversity index were observed among experiments and control. Moreover, it was not possible to make conclusive correlations of enzymatic profile and fermenting microbiota, likely due to the intrinsic activity of plant hydrolases. Regarding to the expression of luxS genes, in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum they were active along the fermentation, but for Limosilactobacillus fermentum, luxS was expressed only at early and middle phases. Correlation analysis of luxS expression and production of volatile metabolites evidenced a possible negative association of Lp. Plantarum with fermentation quality. In conclusion, these data corroborate former shotgun metagenomic analysis by demonstrating the expression of luxS by lactobacilli in pilot scale cocoa fermentation and evidence Lp. Plantarum is the main lactic acid bacteria related to its expression.

Evaluation of the technique of localization of the epidural space with the aid of a peripheral nerve stimulator and epidurographic, comparing two techniques for determining the infused volume, in rabbits (Oryctolagus Cuniculus).

Veterinary care for rabbits has been growing, and, consequently, the anesthetic and analgesic management of this species must be improved. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the technique of localization of the epidural space with the aid of a peripheral nerve stimulator and epidurographic, comparing two techniques for determining the infused volume in rabbits (Oryctolagus Cuniculus). In a prospective, randomized blinded study, six healthy New Zealand rabbits, adults, and weighing from 2.2 kg to 3.8 kg received two treatments, at 1 week intervals: 0.33 mL/kg (treatment I) or 0.05 mL per centimeter of the spine (treatment II) of ioexol epidurally. In both treatments, a peripheral nerve stimulator (2 Hz, 0.25 mA and 0.1 milliseconds) was used to determine the location of the epidural space. Latero-lateral and ventro-dorsal radiographs were taken after five (T5) and twenty-five minutes (T25) of iohexol administration. The epidural space was correctly accessed in 92% of attempts. Treatment I received a smaller volume of contrast than treatment II, 1.0 ± 0.2 mL versus 2.1 ± 0.1 mL (mean ± standard deviation), respectively (p = 0.007). At T5, the cranial progression of the contrast varied between L4 and L5 in treatment I, and L5 and T10 in treatment II. At T25, no contrast was observed in any rabbit. In conclusion, peripheral nerve stimulator aided in accessing the lumbosacral epidural space, and the administration of 0.05 mL per centimeter of the spine resulted in greater cranial progression of contrast.

Safety and usability of the MAK exoskeleton in patients with stroke.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in adults worldwide, and one of the main objectives in the rehabilitation of these patients is to recover the gait. New technologies have emerged to cope with this issue, complementing conventional therapy with the use of devices such as exoskeletons. The Marsi Active Knee (MAK) exoskeleton (Marsi Bionics SL, Madrid, Spain) has already been tested, but an updated version was improved to allow the patients to perform functional exercises. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and usability of the MAK in the stroke population as well as its potential clinical effects. METHODS: A single-group open label intervention trial was conducted. The device was used twice a week for 5 weeks during 1 h per visit. During the visits, sit-to-stand transitions, walking, stair climbing, trunk rotations, and weight-transfer exercises were performed using the device. Adverse events were collected from participants and therapists to assess safety. The Quebec User Evaluation of the Satisfaction with assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0) was used by both therapists and participants to assess usability. To evaluate its clinical effects, active range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength were assessed in the lower limb. RESULTS: Six participants with stroke were recruited. The device was shown to be safe since no serious adverse events were reported neither by patients nor by therapists. Every proposed exercise was performed. Regarding clinical effects, overall muscle strength showed an increase after the treatment, although ROM measurements did not show any difference. DISCUSSION: Our results suggest that the MAK device is safe for stroke patients. Nevertheless, further changes to enhance usability are recommended, such as an improvement of the attachment system and an adaptation for the drop foot. Beneficial effects regarding increases in muscle strength were obtained. Further trials with a larger sample size, longer intervention periods, and a control group are needed to verify these results. Also, future research should focus on the usability of the MAK as an assistive technology.

Quality of life of women from a quilombola community in northeastern Brazil

Abstract Quilombola communities are present in many Brazilian states living in precarious health conditions. This is due to geographic isolation, limitations to the access of the area in which they live in, and the lack of quality in the service when it is needed to be provided. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the quality of life of women from a quilombola community in northeastern Brazil. It is an observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study. 160 adult women were first interviewed through a form to collect a profile and then it was applied the WHOQOL Quality of Life questionnaire bref. It was observed that the women were on average 40.7 years old (±17.25), married, self-declared black, who did not finish elementary school, housewife, had no income, with their own masonry house, with up to 6 rooms, supplied by a box of community treated water. Quality of Life had median scores in the domains: physical (3.18), psychological (3.4), social relationships (3.45) and environment (2.59). With this research, it was possible to characterize the quilombola community of Santa Luzia do Norte-AL regarding the difficulties of access to health and income generation, issues that affect their health condition. The problems described in this study can contribute to health actions being planned and carried out in order to improve socioeconomic and health conditions in this community, considering the social, political and environmental context, valuing their traditional knowledge and practices.

Resumo As comunidades quilombolas, estão presentes em diversos estados brasileiros, vivendo em condições de saúde mais precárias. Isto ocorre por conta do isolamento geográfico, das limitações de acesso e da falta de qualidade no serviço quando este é prestado. Nesse sentido, o objetivo do estudo foi analisar a qualidade de vida de mulheres de uma comunidade quilombola do nordeste brasileiro. Estudo observacional, transversal e descritivo. Foram entrevistadas 160 mulheres adultas, através de um formulário para a coleta de perfil e do questionário de Qualidade de Vida WHOQOL bref. Foi observado que as mulheres tinham em média 40,7 anos (±17,25), casadas, autodeclaradas negras, com fundamental incompleto, do lar, sem renda, com moradia de alvenaria, própria, com até 6 cômodos, abastecidas por caixa de água comunitária, tratada. A Qualidade de Vida, apresentou escores medianos nos domínios: físico (3,18), psicológico (3,4), relações sociais (3,45) e meio ambiente (2,59). Com a realização desta pesquisa foi possível caracterizar a comunidade quilombola de Santa Luzia do Norte-AL quanto as dificuldades de acesso a saúde e geração de renda, fatos que repercutem na sua condição de saúde. Os problemas descritos neste estudo podem contribuir para que ações de saúde sejam planejadas e efetivadas com o intuito de melhorar as condições socioeconômicas e de saúde nessa comunidade, considerando-se o contexto social, político e ambiental, valorizando seus saberes e práticas tradicionais.

Iceberg lettuce cultivated in different systems of planting and sources of fertilizer

Abstract Organic fertilization is a cheaper and highly effective option for profitability and consequent improvement of the soil's physical, chemical, and biological structure. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate different types of fertilization: organic (poultry shed litter), mineral, and leaf path on yield parameters of lettuce grown in various types of planting. The treatments consisted of using two planting systems (P1 - Line and P2 - quincunxes) and mineral and organic fertilizers (A1 - mineral fertilization; A2 - mineral fertilization + leaf fertilization; A3 - organic fertilization with poultry shed litter and A4 - fertilization organic + mineral). The experimental units consisted of 36 and 52 plants, respectively, for treatments P1 and P2, and all central plants of the experimental unit were evaluated. Heart height, fresh mass, and leaf number were observed. The mineral and mineral + leaf treatments did not differentiate, either in line or in quincunxes. The treatment that stood out about the analyzed variables was the organic fertilization and quincunxes planting system, reflecting a more significant number of lettuce plants and better use of the area.

Resumo A adubação orgânica é uma opção mais barata e de grande eficácia em relação à rentabilidade e consequente melhoria da estrutura física, química e biológica do solo. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar diferentes tipos de adubação: orgânica (cama de frango), mineral e via foliar sobre parâmetros de produtividade de alface cultivada em diferentes tipos de plantio. Os tratamentos consistiram na utilização de dois sistemas de plantio (P1 - Linha e P2 - Quincôncio) e adubações minerais e orgânicas (A1 - adubação mineral; A2 - adubação mineral + adubação foliar; A3 - adubação orgânica com cama de aviário e A4 - adubação orgânica + mineral). As unidades experimentais foram compostas por 36 e 52 plantas, respectivamente, para os tratamentos em linha e em quincôncio, sendo avaliadas todas as plantas centrais da unidade experimental. Foram observados a altura do coração, massa fresca e número de folhas. Os tratamentos mineral e mineral + foliar não diferenciaram entre si, tanto em linha quanto em quincôncio. O tratamento que se destacou em relação às variáveis analisadas foi aquele baseado na adubação orgânica e sistema de plantio em quincôncio, refletindo em maior número de pés de alface e melhor aproveitamento da área.

Quality of life of women from a quilombola community in northeastern Brazil / Qualidade de vida de mulheres de uma comunidade quilombola do nordeste brasileiro

Abstract Quilombola communities are present in many Brazilian states living in precarious health conditions. This is due to geographic isolation, limitations to the access of the area in which they live in, and the lack of quality in the service when it is needed to be provided. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the quality of life of women from a quilombola community in northeastern Brazil. It is an observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study. 160 adult women were first interviewed through a form to collect a profile and then it was applied the WHOQOL Quality of Life questionnaire - bref. It was observed that the women were on average 40.7 years old (±17.25), married, self-declared black, who did not finish elementary school, housewife, had no income, with their own masonry house, with up to 6 rooms, supplied by a box of community treated water. Quality of Life had median scores in the domains: physical (3.18), psychological (3.4), social relationships (3.45) and environment (2.59). With this research, it was possible to characterize the quilombola community of Santa Luzia do Norte-AL regarding the difficulties of access to health and income generation, issues that affect their health condition. The problems described in this study can contribute to health actions being planned and carried out in order to improve socioeconomic and health conditions in this community, considering the social, political and environmental context, valuing their traditional knowledge and practices.

Resumo As comunidades quilombolas, estão presentes em diversos estados brasileiros, vivendo em condições de saúde mais precárias. Isto ocorre por conta do isolamento geográfico, das limitações de acesso e da falta de qualidade no serviço quando este é prestado. Nesse sentido, o objetivo do estudo foi analisar a qualidade de vida de mulheres de uma comunidade quilombola do nordeste brasileiro. Estudo observacional, transversal e descritivo. Foram entrevistadas 160 mulheres adultas, através de um formulário para a coleta de perfil e do questionário de Qualidade de Vida WHOQOL - bref. Foi observado que as mulheres tinham em média 40,7 anos (±17,25), casadas, autodeclaradas negras, com fundamental incompleto, do lar, sem renda, com moradia de alvenaria, própria, com até 6 cômodos, abastecidas por caixa de água comunitária, tratada. A Qualidade de Vida, apresentou escores medianos nos domínios: físico (3,18), psicológico (3,4), relações sociais (3,45) e meio ambiente (2,59). Com a realização desta pesquisa foi possível caracterizar a comunidade quilombola de Santa Luzia do Norte-AL quanto as dificuldades de acesso a saúde e geração de renda, fatos que repercutem na sua condição de saúde. Os problemas descritos neste estudo podem contribuir para que ações de saúde sejam planejadas e efetivadas com o intuito de melhorar as condições socioeconômicas e de saúde nessa comunidade, considerando-se o contexto social, político e ambiental, valorizando seus saberes e práticas tradicionais.

Temporal shifts to the gut microbiome associated with cognitive dysfunction following high-fat diet consumption in a juvenile model of traumatic brain injury.

The gut-brain axis interconnects the central nervous system (CNS) and the commensal bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract. The composition of the diet consumed by the host influences the richness of the microbial populations. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) produces profound neurocognitive damage, but it is unknown how diet influences the microbiome following TBI. The present work investigates the impact of a chow diet versus a 60% fat diet (HFD) on fecal microbiome populations in juvenile rats following TBI. Twenty-day-old male rats were placed on one of two diets for 9 days before sustaining either a Sham or TBI via the Closed Head Injury Model of Engineered Rotational Acceleration (CHIMERA). Fecal samples were collected at both 1- and 9-days postinjury. Animals were cognitively assessed in the novel object recognition tests at 8 days postinjury. Fecal microbiota DNA was isolated and sequenced. Twenty days of HFD feeding did not alter body weight, but fat mass was elevated in HFD compared with Chow rats. TBI animals had a greater percentage of entries to the novel object quadrant than Sham counterparts, P < 0.05. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was significantly higher in TBI than in the Sham, P < 0.05. Microbiota of the Firmicutes lineage exhibited perturbations by both injury and diet that were sustained at both time points. Linear regression analyses were performed to associate bacteria with metabolic and neurocognitive endpoints. For example, counts of Lachnospiraceae were negatively associated with percent entries into the novel object quadrant. Taken together, these data suggest that both diet and injury produce robust shifts in microbiota, which may have long-term implications for chronic health.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Traumatic brain injury (TBI) produces memory and learning difficulties. Diet profoundly influences the populations of gut microbiota. Following traumatic brain injury in a pediatric model consuming either a healthy or high-fat diet (HFD), significant shifts in bacterial populations occur, of which, some are associated with diet, whereas others are associated with neurocognitive performance. More work is needed to determine whether these microbes can therapeutically improve learning following trauma to the brain.

Iceberg lettuce cultivated in different systems of planting and sources of fertilizer / Alface americana cultivada em diferentes sistemas de plantio e fontes de fertilizantes

Organic fertilization is a cheaper and highly effective option for profitability and consequent improvement of the soil's physical, chemical, and biological structure. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate different types of fertilization: organic (poultry shed litter), mineral, and leaf path on yield parameters of lettuce grown in various types of planting. The treatments consisted of using two planting systems (P1 - Line and P2 - quincunxes) and mineral and organic fertilizers (A1 - mineral fertilization; A2 - mineral fertilization + leaf fertilization; A3 - organic fertilization with poultry shed litter and A4 - fertilization organic + mineral). The experimental units consisted of 36 and 52 plants, respectively, for treatments P1 and P2, and all central plants of the experimental unit were evaluated. Heart height, fresh mass, and leaf number were observed. The mineral and mineral + leaf treatments did not differentiate, either in line or in quincunxes. The treatment that stood out about the analyzed variables was the organic fertilization and quincunxes planting system, reflecting a more significant number of lettuce plants and better use of the area.

A adubação orgânica é uma opção mais barata e de grande eficácia em relação à rentabilidade e consequente melhoria da estrutura física, química e biológica do solo. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar diferentes tipos de adubação: orgânica (cama de frango), mineral e via foliar sobre parâmetros de produtividade de alface cultivada em diferentes tipos de plantio. Os tratamentos consistiram na utilização de dois sistemas de plantio (P1 - Linha e P2 - Quincôncio) e adubações minerais e orgânicas (A1 - adubação mineral; A2 - adubação mineral + adubação foliar; A3 - adubação orgânica com cama de aviário e A4 - adubação orgânica + mineral). As unidades experimentais foram compostas por 36 e 52 plantas, respectivamente, para os tratamentos em linha e em quincôncio, sendo avaliadas todas as plantas centrais da unidade experimental. Foram observados a altura do coração, massa fresca e número de folhas. Os tratamentos mineral e mineral + foliar não diferenciaram entre si, tanto em linha quanto em quincôncio. O tratamento que se destacou em relação às variáveis analisadas foi aquele baseado na adubação orgânica e sistema de plantio em quincôncio, refletindo em maior número de pés de alface e melhor aproveitamento da área.

Abstinencia a corto plazo y seguridad de citisina. Un estudio multicéntrico y observacional en España / [Short-term withdrawal and safety of cytisine. A multicenter and observational study in Spain]

Introducción y objetivos. Citisina es un fármaco empleado para la cesación tabáquica recientemente comercializado en nuestro país. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la abstinencia a corto plazo y la seguridad en la práctica clínica diaria en población sana y con comorbilidades. Material y métodos . Estudio observacional, descriptivo y multicéntrico realizado en un centro de saludde Atención Primaria y dos Unidades de Tabaquismo de hospitales de tercer nivel. Se realiza una búsqueda en la base de datos de Tabaquismo para identificar pacientes fumadores tratados con citisina. Se analizan las características basales de los fumadores, la abstinencia mantenida al mes y a los 3 meses, así como el porcentaje de eventos adversos y el tipo de los mismos. Resultados. Un 81,5% de los pacientes se mantienen sin fumar durante el primer mes desde el inicio del tratamiento y un 61% a los 3 meses. En los pacientes con comorbilidades significativas, los porcentajes de abstinencia al mes y a los 3 meses son los siguientes: en EPOC 73% y 56,6% respectivamente, en enfermedad cardiovascular 63,5% y 42,1%, en enfermedad psiquiátrica 71% y 57,1%, y en neoplasias 66% y 55%. Solo un 7,7% presentaban efectos adversos al fármaco. Conclusiones. Citisina es una opción terapéutica efectiva a corto plazo y segura. (AU)

Introduction and objectives. Cytisine is a drug used for smoking cessation recently marketed in our country. The aim of this study is to analyze short-term abstinence and safety in daily clinical practice in healthy population and with comorbidities. Material and methods. Observational, descriptive and multicenter study carried out in a primary care health center and two smoking cessation units of third level hospitals. A search was performed in the Smoking database to identify smoking patients treated with cytisine. We analyzed the baseline characteristics of the smokers, the abstinence maintained at 1 and 3 months, as well as the percentage of adverse events and their type. Results. 81.5% of patients remained smoke-free during the first month after starting treatment and 61% at 3 months. In patients with significant comorbidities, the abstinence percentages at 1 month and 3 months were as follows: In COPD 73% and 56.6% respectively, in cardiovascular disease 63.5% and 42.1%, in psychiatric disease 71% and 57.1% and in neoplasms 66% and 55%. Only 7.7% presented adverse effects to the drug. Conclusions. Cytisine is an effective short-term and safe therapeutic option. (AU)