Abstract Background: type 1 Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic disease increasingly prevalent in children, thus it is essential to encourage adherence to self-care and minimize the difficulties experienced. Objectives: characterize the knowledge of adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus about their disease and identify their difficulties in self-care. Methodology: quantitative, simple descriptive study. Application of Knowledge Test of Adolescents with DM1 about the disease and the Inventory of Difficulties in Self-Care Roles by Flora & Gameiro (2016). Data collected between june and november 2021 at Diabetes Consultation of a Hospital in the central region of Portugal. Sample of 34 diabetic adolescents with a mean age of 14.9 (±2.3) years. Results: in overall knowledge, adolescents show a level of knowledge between reasonable and good, and it is in domain 1 (Nature of the disease/physiopathology) where they show the best level of knowledge. In the difficulties in the self-care roles, they show higher percentages of difficulty in maintaining a balanced diet, fighting stress and interventions when facing hypoglycemia. Conclusion: adolescents have difficulties in self-care roles, and the nurses' intervention in the implementation of adjusted therapeutic plans is essential to overcome the knowledge gaps and reduce the identified difficulties.

Resumen Marco contextual: la diabetes mellitus tipo 1 es una enfermedad crónica cada vez más prevalente en niños, por lo que es fundamental fomentar la adherencia al autocuidado y minimizar las dificultades que experimentan. Objetivos: caracterizar el conocimiento de los adolescentes con diabetes mellitus tipo 1 sobre su enfermedad e identificar sus dificultades en el autocuidado. Metodologia: estudo quantitativo, descritivo simples. Aplicação de Test de Conocimientos de Adolescentes con DM1 sobre la enfermedad y el Inventario de Dificultades en los Roles de Autocuidado de Flora & Gameiro (2016). Datos recogidos entre junio y noviembre de 2021 en la Consulta de Diabetes de un Hospital de la región central de Portugal. Muestra de 34 adolescentes diabéticos con edad media de 14,9 (±2,3) años. Resultados: en el conocimiento global, los adolescentes muestran un nivel de conocimiento entre razonable y bueno, y es en el dominio 1 (Naturaleza de la enfermedad/fisiopatología) donde muestran el mejor nivel de conocimiento. En cuanto a las dificultades en las funciones de autocuidado, estos pacientes mostraron mayores porcentajes de dificultad para mantener una dieta equilibrada, combatir el estrés e intervenir ante una hipoglucemia. Conclusión: adolescentes tienen una dificultad para los en los roles de autocuidado, siendo fundamental la intervención del enfermero en la implementación de planes terapéuticos ajustados, con el fin de llenar los vacíos de conocimiento y reducir las dificultades identificadas.

Resumo Enquadramento: a Diabetes Mellitus tipo 1 enquanto doença crónica é, cada vez mais prevalente, em idade pediátrica, sendo fundamental o incentivo de adesão ao autocuidado e a minimização das dificuldades sentidas. Objetivos: caracterizar o conhecimento de adolescentes com diabetes mellitus tipo 1 acerca da sua doença e identificar as suas dificuldades no autocuidado. Metodologia: estudo quantitativo, descritivo simples. Aplicação do Teste de Conhecimento dos Adolescentes com DM1 acerca da doença e o Inventário de Dificuldades nos Papéis de Autocuidado de Flora & Gameiro (2016). Recolha de dados de junho a novembro de 2021, na Consulta de Diabetes de um Hospital da região centro de Portugal. Amostra de 34 adolescentes com média de idades de 14.9 (±2.3) anos. Resultados: no conhecimento global, os adolescentes apresentam um nível de conhecimento entre o razoável e bom, sendo o domínio 1 (Natureza da doença/fisiopatologia) onde estes apresentam melhor nível de conhecimento. Nas dificuldades nos papéis de autocuidado, apresentam maior dificuldade na manutenção de uma alimentação equilibrada, combate ao stress e intervenções numa hipoglicemia. Conclusão: verifica-se dificuldade destes nos papeis de autocuidado, sendo fundamental a intervenção dos enfermeiros na implementação de planos terapêuticos ajustados, no sentido de colmatar falhas de conhecimento e dificuldades identificadas.

ABSTRACT The concern over the quality of life, well-being and mental health of the elderly has been evident in the literature, where the regular practice of physical exercise plays a crucial role, particularly considering the demographic ageing of the population. The purpose of this study was to characterise the subjective well-being levels (life satisfaction and positive and negative affect), quality of life, and depressive and anxious symptomology in a sample of Portuguese elders. A comparative analysis of the variables according to the weekly frequency of physical exercise practice was also performed. The associations between the variables were also analysed. A total of 92 Portuguese elders (76,55± 9.73 years) were enrolled in the present study. The Portuguese versions of “SWLS”, “PANAS”, “HADS”, and “EUROHIS-QOL-8” were used. The main results showed the existence of significant differences in the variable positive affect (p= 0,01) (elders without physical exercise practice had lower values) and for the variable depressive symptomology (p= 0,01) (elders with a higher frequency of physical exercise practice had lower depressive symptomology). Furthermore, it is noteworthy the correlation between the studied variables (well-being, quality of life, and depressive and anxious symptomology). Subsequently, this study represents an important contribution to the comprehension of the role of regular physical exercise practice, not just for the physical health of the elderly but also for their well-being and depressive and anxious symptomology.

RESUMO A preocupação com a qualidade de vida, bem-estar e saúde mental dos idosos tem sido evidente na literatura, assumindo a prática regular de exercício físico um papel fundamental na sua promoção, especialmente tendo em conta o envelhecimento demográfico a que temos assistido. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar os níveis de bem-estar subjetivo (satisfação com a vida e afeto positivo e negativo), qualidade de vida e sintomatologia depressiva e ansiosa numa amostra de idosos portugueses, incluindo uma análise comparativa destas variáveis em função da frequência semanal de prática de Exercício Físico. Foram ainda analisadas as associações entre as variáveis. Para tal, recorreu-se a uma amostra de 92 idosos portugueses (76,55± 9.73 anos), 26 (28,3%) do sexo masculino e 66 (71,7%) do sexo feminino. Foram utilizadas as versões portuguesas da “SWLS”, do “PANAS”, bem da “HADS” e da “EUROHIS-QOL-8”. Os principais resultados revelaram a existência de diferenças significativas na variável afeto positivo (p= 0,01) (idosos que não praticavam exercício físico com valores mais reduzidos) e na variável sintomatologia depressiva (p= 0,01) (idosos com maior frequência de prática de exercício físico com menor sintomatologia depressiva). Destacam-se ainda as associações entre as variáveis em estudo (bem-estar, qualidade de vida e sintomatologia depressiva e ansiosa). Este estudo parece assim dar um importante contributo na compreensão do papel da prática regular de exercício físico, não apenas para a saúde física do idoso, mas também para o seu bem-estar e sintomatologia depressiva e ansiosa.

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the eating patterns of the adult population from Antioquia, Colombia, and their association with socioeconomic variables. Methods: a cross-sectional study was performed with a random sample of 1,394 adults aged 18 to 59 years, derived from the Antioquia Food and Nutritional Profile 2019 study. Food consumption was evaluated with a 24-hour consumption recall (R24h) and a second R24h on a non-consecutive day at 25% of the sample, food consumption was quantified in grams, and food patterns were established by factorial analysis by Principal Components with varimax orthogonal rotation. To verify the association between eating patterns and socioeconomic variables, Poisson regression was used for robust variance. Results: three eating patterns were defined that represent 28.1% of the variance: “Traditional” (9.8%), “Regional” (9.7%), and “Prudent” (8.6%). The first two were associated with demographic variables, such as gender, age, and ethnicity; while the latter was associated with socioeconomic variables such as schooling, family income, social security system, and food security classification. Conclusions: The findings of this study show that the diet of the population of the study, follows some references to food tradition, reflected in the Traditional and Regional patterns, while the Prudent pattern corresponds to the part of the population that has better socioeconomic conditions, and they probably follow it for health recommendation.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar los patrones alimentarios de la población adulta Antioqueña y su asociación con variables socioeconómicas. Métodos: estudio transversal con muestra aleatoria de 1.394 adultos de 18 a 59 años, derivados del estudio Perfil alimentario y nutricional de Antioquia 2019. El consumo alimentario fue evaluado con recordatorio de consumo en 24 horas (R24h) y un segundo R24h en día no consecutivo al 25% de la muestra, se cuantificó el consumo de alimentos en gramos, los patrones alimentarios se establecieron mediante análisis factorial por Componentes principales con rotación ortogonal varimax. Para verificar la asociación entre los patrones alimentarios y las variables socioeconómicas se empleó regresión de Poisson por varianza robusta. Resultados: se definieron tres patrones alimentarios que representan el 28,1% de la varianza: “Tradicional” (9,8%), “Regional” (9,7%) y “Prudente” (8,6%). Los dos primeros se asociaron con variables demográficas, como sexo, edad y etnia; mientras que el último se asoció con variables socioeconómicas como escolaridad, ingresos familiares, régimen de seguridad social y clasificación de seguridad alimentaria. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos del presente estudio muestran que la dieta de la población estudiada, sigue unos referentes de tradición alimentaria, reflejados en los patrones Tradicional y Regional, mientras que el patrón Prudente, corresponde a la parte de la población que tiene mejores condiciones socioeconómicas y probablemente lo siguen por recomendación de salud.

RESUMEN La hemodiálisis, junto con la enfermedad renal crónica (ERC), intensifica el proceso inflamatorio y el estrés oxidativo en los pacientes en tratamiento. En este contexto, la suplementación con vitamina E puede mitigar los efectos nocivos resultantes de estos procesos. Esta es una revisión sistemática cuyo objetivo fue evaluar el efecto de la suplementación con vitamina E sobre biomarcadores inflamatorios y estrés oxidativo en pacientes con ERC en hemodiálisis. La revisión se elaboró según la metodología para revisiones sistemáticas y metanálisis (PRISMA) y la búsqueda se realizó en las bases de datos Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus y Web of Science. El riesgo de sesgo de los estudios incluidos se evaluó con la Herramienta Cochrane de Riesgo de Sesgo (Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool). En esta revisión se incluyeron doce estudios desarrollados entre 2006 y 2020. La mayoría (n= 11) utilizó dosis de vitamina E que oscilaban entre 400 UI y 888 UI y el tiempo de suplementación osciló entre 2 semanas y 12 meses. De los 12 artículos incluidos, 25% (n= 3) analizaba la suplementación en biomarcadores inflamatorios, 50% (n= 6) en biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo y 25% (n= 3) en estos parámetros simultáneamente. Se observó un efecto positivo en 58,4% de los estudios (n= 7). Por lo tanto, la suplementación con vitamina E puede ser efectiva para mitigar el proceso inflamatorio y el estrés oxidativo, sin embargo, vale la pena señalar que el efecto depende de la dosis y el tiempo de suplementación.

ABSTRACT Hemodialysis, along with chronic kidney disease (CKD), intensifies the inflammatory process and oxidative stress in patients undergoing treatment. In this context, Vitamin E supplementation can mitigate the deleterious effects resulting from these processes. This is a systematic review whose objective was to evaluate the effect of Vitamin E supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress in patients with CKD on hemodialysis. This review was prepared according to the methodology for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and the search was performed in Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Twelve studies developed between 2006 and 2020 were included in this review. Most of them (n= 11) used vitamin E doses ranging from 400 IU to 888 IU and the supplementation time ranged from 2 weeks to 12 months. Of all the 12 articles included, 25% (n= 3) analyzed supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress and 25% (n= 3) addressed these parameters simultaneously. A positive effect was observed in 58.4% of the studies (n= 7). Thus, Vitamin E supplementation can be effective in mitigating the inflammatory process and oxidative stress, however, it is worth noting that the effect depends on the dose and time of supplementation.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever e comparar as variáveis da aptidão física de acordo com o cumprimento da recomendação de atividade física, medida por acelerometria. Métodos: A amostra foi composta de 120 escolares, sendo 57 meninos e 63 meninas, de 9 a 11 anos de idade. As variáveis analisadas foram: peso, estatura, índice de massa corpórea (IMC), dobras cutâneas, circunferências, agilidade, flexibilidade, velocidade e força de membros superiores, inferiores e abdominal. A atividade física foi mensurada de forma objetiva por meio de acelerômetro. Os escolares foram divididos em dois grupos: “cumpre a recomendação” (≥60min/dia) e “não cumpre a recomendação” (<60min/dia). Para verificar a normalidade dos dados, foi utilizado o teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov. A comparação dos valores médios dos escolares que cumprem ou não a recomendação de atividade física foi feita pelos testes t de Student e U de Mann-Whitney. O nível de significância adotado foi de p<0,05. Resultados: Os escolares que cumpriram a recomendação, comparados com os que não cumpriram, apresentaram valores significativamente menores para adiposidade (somatória das sete dobras cutâneas), peso corporal, IMC e força abdominal. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas variáveis de velocidade e agilidade; quanto à força de membros superiores (MMSS), constatou-se que ela foi maior em quem não cumpriu a recomendação. Conclusões: Crianças que cumpriram a recomendação de atividade física apresentaram melhor composição corporal e força abdominal que as crianças que não cumpriram.

Abstract Objective: To describe and compare physical fitness variables according to compliance with the recommendations of physical activity, measured by accelerometry. Methods: The sample gathered 120 students, 57 boys and 63 girls aged 9 to 11 years. The variables analyzed were: weight, stature, BMI, skinfolds, waist circumference, agility, flexibility, speed and strength of upper and lower limbs, and abdominal strength. Physical activity was measured objectively using an accelerometer. The students were divided into two groups: “complies with recommendations” (≥60min/day) and “does not comply with recommendations” (<60min/day). To verify the normality of the data, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used. The mean values of students who do or do not comply with the physical activity recommendation were compared using Student's t and U-Mann Whitney tests. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The students who followed the recommendation showed significantly lower values compared to those who did not for adiposity (sum of 7 skinfolds); body weight; body mass index (BMI) and abdominal strength. No significant differences were found in the variables of speed and agility, and the upper limbs’ strength was greater in subjects who did not comply with recommendations. Conclusions: Students who complied with physical activity recommendations had better body composition and more abdominal strength than those who did not.

Resumo Objetivo: descrever o processo de implantação subnacional da certificação da eliminação da transmissão vertical de HIV e/ou sífilis, suas principais barreiras, desafios e oportunidades. Métodos: em 2022, foram avaliados indicadores do último ano completo para meta de impacto, e dos dois últimos anos completos para metas de processo, disponíveis nos sistemas nacionais de informações; foram analisados relatórios descritivos e reconhecidas ações em quatro eixos temáticos, conforme recomendações da OPAS/OMS. Resultados: 43 municípios ≥ 100 mil habitantes foram certificados, abrangendo 24,6 milhões de habitantes; um município alcançou dupla eliminação (HIV-sífilis), 28 alcançaram eliminação para HIV e 10, selos prata; para sífilis, houve uma eliminação, 4 selos ouro, 13 prata e 4 bronze; identificou-se maior número de certificações nas regiões Sudeste e Sul. Conclusão: barreiras e desafios do processo foram superados pela colaboração tripartite; a experiência proporcionou melhor integração da vigilância com a assistência e qualificação das ações para prevenção da transmissão vertical.

Resumen Objetivo: describir el proceso de implementación subnacional de la certificación de eliminación de la transmisión vertical (TV) de sífilis y/o VIH, barreras, oportunidades y desafíos. Métodos: en 2022, se evaluaron indicadores del último año completo para la meta de impacto y de los dos últimos años para las de proceso en los sistemas de información; se analizaron informes descriptivos y se reconocieron acciones de cuatro ejes, según las recomendaciones de la OPS/OMS. Resultados: se certificaron 43 municipios ≥ 100.000 mil habitantes, cubriendo 24,6 millones de habitantes; un municipio logró la doble eliminación (VIH-sífilis), 28 la eliminación del VIH y 10 sellos plata; para sífilis, hubo una eliminación, 4 sellos oro, 13 plata y 4 bronce; las regiones Sudeste y Sur obtuvieron más certificaciones. Conclusión: barreras y desafíos fueron superados mediante la colaboración tripartita; la experiencia permitió la integración de la vigilancia con la atención y la cualificación de acciones para la prevención de la TV.

Abstract Objective: to describe the subnational implementation process of the certification for elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis, its main barriers, challenges and opportunities. Methods: in 2022, indicators from the last full year for impact targets and the last two full years for process targets, available in national information systems, were evaluated; descriptive reports were analyzed and actions were acknowledged within four thematic axes, according to PAHO/WHO recommendations. Results: 43 municipalities ≥ 100,000 inhabitants were certified, covering 24.6 million inhabitants; one municipality achieved dual elimination (HIV-syphilis), 28 municipalities achieved elimination of HIV and 10 received silver tiers; regarding syphilis, one elimination was observed, along with 4 gold tiers, 13 silver tiers and 4 bronze tiers; a higher number of certifications was identified in the Southeast and South regions. Conclusion: barriers and challenges of the process were overcome through tripartite collaboration; the experience provided better integration of surveillance with care and improved actions aimed at preventing mother-to-child transmission.

Abstract Preterm birth (PTB) is the main condition related to perinatal morbimortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to identify gene-environment interactions associated with spontaneous PTB or its predictors. We carried out a retrospective case-control study including parental sociodemographic and obstetric data as well as newborn genetic variants of 69 preterm and 61 at term newborns born at a maternity hospital from Tucumán, Argentina, between 2005 and 2010. A data-driven Bayesian network including the main PTB predictors was created where we identified gene-environment interactions. We used logistic regressions to calculate the odds ratios and confidence intervals of the interactions. From the main PTB predictors (nine exposures and six genetic variants) we identified an interaction between low neighbourhood socioeconomic status and rs2074351 (PON1, genotype GG) variant that was associated with an increased risk of toxoplasmosis (odds ratio 12.51, confidence interval 95%: 1.71 - 91.36). The results of this exploratory study suggest that structural social disparities could influence the PTB risk by increasing the frequency of exposures that potentiate the risk associated with individual characteristics such as genetic traits. Future studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm these findings.

ABSTRACT Purpose To describe the main quantitative methods used for morphometric analysis of the vocal tract in singers, their applications and the main segments studied. Research strategy This is an integrative review guided by the guiding question “What are the main quantitative methods used for morphometric analysis of the vocal tract, their applications and the main segments studied in singers?”. The electronic databases PubMed, Scopus and VHL were used through the search key (Vocal tract OR Oropharynx) AND (Morphology OR Geometry) AND (Evaluation OR Diagnosis) AND (voice), without restriction of years of publication, including articles in three languages: Portuguese, English and Spanish. Selection criteria The selection took place independently through reading by pairs and subsequent application of exclusion and inclusion criteria. Results Of the 380 studies, 30 duplicates were excluded. After reading the abstracts, applying the selection criteria, 18 studies were selected for full reading, of which 12 were included in this review. Magnetic resonance imaging was the main instrument used and the analyzed segments ranged from the length and volume of the vocal tract to isolated segments and their morphological particularities. Conclusion Vocal tract morphological quantification methods are important for the instrumental evaluation of the vocal tract and its segments, a technological update leading to better understanding of singers’ voice and therapeutical intervention.

RESUMO Objetivo descrever os principais métodos quantitativos utilizados para análise morfométrica do trato vocal em cantores, suas aplicações e os principais segmentos estudados. Estratégia de pesquisa trata-se de uma revisão integrativa guiada pela pergunta condutora: “Quais os principais métodos quantitativos utilizados para análise morfométrica do trato vocal, suas aplicações e os principais segmentos estudados em cantores?”. Foram utilizadas as bases eletrônicas PubMed, Scopus e BVS, por meio da chave de busca Vocal tract OR Oropharynx AND Morphology OR Geometry AND Evaluation OR Diagnosis AND voice, sem restrições de ano de publicação, sendo incluídos artigos em três idiomas: português, inglês e espanhol. Critérios de seleção: a seleção se deu de forma independente, por meio da leitura por pares e posterior aplicação dos critérios de exclusão e inclusão. Resultados dos 380 estudos, foram excluídos 30 duplicados. A partir da leitura dos resumos, aplicando-se os critérios de seleção, foram selecionados 18 estudos para leitura na íntegra, dos quais, 12 foram incluídos nesta revisão. A ressonância magnética foi o principal instrumento utilizado e os segmentos analisados incluíram desde o comprimento e volume do trato vocal, como segmentos isolados e suas particularidades morfológicas. Conclusão os métodos de quantificação morfológica do trato vocal integram instrumentos importantes para a avaliação instrumental do trato vocal e de seus segmentos, colaborando na atualização tecnológica em voz para melhor compreensão e intervenções fonoaudiológicas na voz cantada

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess exercise capacity, lung and physical function in COVID-19 survivors, and the association of lesion-level characteristics assessed by chest computed tomography, probable sarcopenia, and percentage of diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide with clinical and functional variables. METHODS: This study was conducted in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. All patients had a laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The sociodemographic characteristics, COVID-19 exposure history, pulmonary function, computed tomography, and functionality of the participants between 1 and 3 months of diagnosis of the disease were collected. RESULTS: A total of 135 patients after COVID-19 recovery were included in this study. Probable sarcopenia, reduction in percentage of diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, and a lower 6-min walk distance were observed after COVID-19 infection. Computed tomography>50% was associated with a longer length of stay and a lower percentage of diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide. Probable sarcopenia diagnosis was associated with a worse percentage of the predicted 6-min walk distance in relation to the predicted, absolute 6-min walk distance (m), percentage of diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, and percentage of total lung capacity. CONCLUSION: Muscle disability and lung dysfunction are common in COVID-19 survivors. Hospitalization was associated with the worst muscle force and diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide. Computed tomography characteristics could be a marker of prolonged hospital stay after the acute phase of COVID-19. Additionally, the probable diagnosis of sarcopenia could be a marker of impact on walking distance. These results highlight the need for long-term follow-up of those patients and rehabilitation programs.

ABSTRACT Objectives: Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) can be permanent (PCH) or transient (TCH). While the importance of thyroxine in myelination of the brain is undisputed, the benefits to neurodevelopmental outcomes of TCH treatment are controversial. Our objectives were to determine predictive factors for PCH and verify its prevalence changes over time. Subjects and methods: A total of 165 children were evaluated at 3 years of age to verify the diagnosis of PCH. 130 were submitted to a two-step cluster analysis, with the aim of grouping them into homogeneous clusters. The mean incidence of PCH and TCH was calculated from 2004 to 2010 and 2011 to 2015. Results: Sixty-six children were diagnosed with PCH, and 99 were diagnosed with TCH. Eighty-one percent of PCH children and all TCH children with thyroid imaging had glands in situ. Eighty children (61.5%) were in Cluster 1, 8 children (6.2%) were in Cluster 2 and 42 children (32.3%) were in Cluster 3. No children had PCH in Cluster 1, while 87.5% of children in Cluster 2 and all children in Cluster 3 had PCH. The most important predictor for PCH was the initial serum TSH, which was marginally higher in importance than the blood spot TSH, followed by the initial serum free T4. The mean incidence of PCH (odds ratio: 1.95, 95% CI 1.36 to 2.95, p < 0.0001) and TCH (odds ratio 1.33, 95%, CI 1.02 to 1.77, p = 0,038) increased over time. Conclusions: The most important PCH predictors are the initial serum TSH and the blood spot TSH. The mean incidence of both PCH and TCH in our series increased.

Abstract This study evaluated the bioactive potential of a macro-porous chitosan scaffold incorporated with calcium hydroxide (CH-Ca) and functionalized with bioactive doses of simvastatin (SV) for bone tissue regeneration. Initially, the bioactive dose of SV in osteoblastic cells (SAOS-2) was determined. For the direct contact experiment, SAOS-2 cells were plated on scaffolds to assess cell viability and osteogenic differentiation. The second assay was performed at a distance using extracts from scaffolds incubated in culture medium to assess the effect of conditioned medium on viability and osteogenic differentiation. The initial screening showed that 1 μM SV presented the best biostimulating effects, and this dose was selected for incorporation into the CH-Ca and pure chitosan (CH) scaffolds. The cells remained viable throughout the direct contact experiment, with the greatest cell density in the CH-Ca and CH-Ca-SV scaffolds because of their higher porosity. The CH-Ca-SV scaffold showed the most intense bio-stimulating effect in assays in the presence and absence of osteogenic medium, leading to an increased deposition of mineralized matrix. There was an increase in the viability of cells exposed to the extracts for CH-Ca, CH-SV, and CH-Ca-SV during the one-day period. There was an increase in ALP activity in the CH-Ca and CH-Ca-SV; however, the CH-Ca-SV scaffold resulted in an intense increase in the deposition of mineralized nodules, approximately 56.4% at 7 days and 117% at 14 days, compared with CH (control). In conclusion, functionalization of the CH-Ca scaffold with SV promoted an increase in bioactivity, presenting a promising option for bone tissue regeneration.

Abstract We evaluate how the concentrations of inorganic nutrients and chlorophyll a vary in a heterogeneous area (Equatorial SW Atlantic), covering a gradient from stations closer to the coast to others more distant associated or not with turbid-zone reefs. Vertical temperature (27.9 ± 0.10 °C; mean ± standard deviation) and salinity (36.2 ± 0.14) profles showed that the water column is well mixed (0-30 m depth). The oligotrophic condition was marked by low concentrations of phosphate (0.30 ± 0.22 µM) and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (0.64 ± 0.74 µM). Moreover, dissolved reactive silicon (DSi) was low in most samples (< 2.0 µM), but higher (>10 µM) in nearshore stations, probably related to continental runoff and/or resuspension of the bottom sediments. The pelagic phytoplankton biomass indicated that chlorophyll a (0.25 ± 0.08 µg L-1) was low, positively correlated with light and negatively correlated with nutrients, indicating possible phytoplankton uptake. Chlorophyll a concentrations were lower in stations closer to the coast and higher in some stations near the reefs, indicating that the latter could be more prone to phytoplankton development and depletion of nutrients, especially DSi. Therefore, although oligotrophy is present along this coast, we found some unexpected heterogeneity of nutrient and chlorophyll a distributions, which were probably infuenced by benthic-pelagic coupling due to the presence of extensive reefs, sponge gardens (18-30 m depth), and the proximity to the coast. These results highlight the importance of understanding the heterogeneity of ocean productivity, especially in lesser known low-latitude areas, which showed distinct nutrient and chlorophyll a levels related to the occurrence of tropical reefs that are capable of supporting important fsh stocks and unique biological communities.

Abstract Introduction Post-COVID-19 syndrome is characterized by chronic fatigue and myalgia, among other symptoms, which can limit activities of daily living. Physical therapy protocols with multicomponent exercises combine strength, resistance, balance and gait, producing sig-nificant improvements in functional mobility. Objective Evaluate whether multicomponent rehabilitation is effective in improving functional mobility and quality of life in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Methods Randomized controlled trial with 59 volunteers, divided into an intervention (IG) and control group (CG), all of whom underwent initial assessment (T0). The IG performed 24 sessions over 12 weeks and the CG did not undergo training. Functional mobility was analyzed using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and the Berg balance scale, while the SF-36 questionnaire assessed quality of life. Results In the 6MWT, the IG covered 464.40 + 81.26 meters (T0) and 518.60 + 82.68 meters (T4). The IG Berg scale scores were 48.00 + 4.00 (T0) and 51.90 + 4.26 (T4). In terms of quality of life, the IG obtained mean scores of 96.26 + 10.14 (T0) and 102.60 + 5.53 (T4). None of these measures was statistically significant. Conclusion Individuals who underwent the multicomponent phys-iotherapy protocol showed statistically nonsignificant increases in the variables studied.

Resumo Introdução A síndrome pós-COVID-19 caracteriza-se por fadiga crônica, mialgia, entre outros sintomas que podem causar limitações na realização das atividades de vida diária. Protocolos de fisioterapia com exercício de multicomponentes combinam força, resistência, equi-líbrio e marcha, e produzem melhorias significativas na mobilidade funcional. Objetivo Avaliar se a reabilitação de multicomponentes é eficaz em promover melhora na mobilidade funcional e qualidade de vida em indivíduos com síndrome pós-COVID-19. Métodos Ensaio clínico randomizado, controlado, realizado com 59 voluntários, divididos em grupo intervenção (GI) e grupo controle (GC). Todos fizeram avaliação inicial (T0); GI realizou 24 sessões durante 12 semanas e GC não realizou treinamento. A análise da mobilidade funcional foi realizada através do teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6m) e da escala de equilíbrio de Berg. O questionário SF-36 avaliou a qualidade de vida. Resultados A distância percorrida no TC6m pelo GI foi de 464,40 + 81,26 metros (T0) e de 518,60 + 82,68 metros (T4). A pontuação na escala de Berg do GI foi de 48,00 + 4,00 (T0) e de 51,90 + 4,26 (T4). Na qualidade de vida, GI apresentou escore com média de 96,26 + 10,14 (T0) e 102,60 + 5,53 (T4). Nenhuma destas medidas foram estatisticamente significantes. Conclusão Os indivíduos que foram submetidos ao protocolo fisioterapêutico de multicomponentes apresentaram incrementos nas variáveis estudadas sem significância estatística.

Abstract Simulating a bacterial-induced pulpitis environment in vitro may contribute to exploring mechanisms and bioactive molecules to counteract these adverse effects. Objective To investigate the chronic exposure of human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) aiming to establish a cell culture protocol to simulate the impaired odontogenic potential under pulpitis conditions. Methodology HDPCs were isolated from four healthy molars of different donors and seeded in culture plates in a growth medium. After 24 h, the medium was changed to an odontogenic differentiation medium (DM) supplemented or not with E. coli LPS (0 - control, 0.1, 1, or 10 µg/mL) (n=8). The medium was renewed every two days for up to seven days, then replaced with LPS-free DM for up to 21 days. The activation of NF-κB and F-actin expression were assessed (immunofluorescence) after one and seven days. On day 7, cells were evaluated for both the gene expression (RT-qPCR) of odontogenic markers (COL1A1, ALPL, DSPP, and DMP1) and cytokines (TNF, IL1B, IL8, and IL6) and the production of reactive nitrogen (Griess) and oxygen species (Carboxy-H2DCFDA). Cell viability (alamarBlue) was evaluated weekly, and mineralization was assessed (Alizarin Red) at 14 and 21 days. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and post-hoc tests (α=5%). Results After one and seven days of exposure to LPS, NF-κB was activated in a dose-dependent fashion. LPS at 1 and 10 µg/mL concentrations down-regulated the gene expression of odontogenic markers and up-regulated cytokines. LPS at 10 µg/mL increased both the production of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species. LPS decreased cell viability seven days after the end of exposure. LPS at 1 and 10 µg/mL decreased hDPCs mineralization in a dose-dependent fashion. Conclusion The exposure to 10 µg/mL LPS for seven days creates an inflammatory environment that is able to impair by more than half the odontogenic potential of HDPCs in vitro, simulating a pulpitis-like condition.

BACKGROUND In 2022, an outbreak of mpox that started in European countries spread worldwide through human-to-human transmission. Cases have been mostly mild, but severe clinical presentations have been reported. In these cases, tecovirimat has been the drug of choice to treat patients with aggravated disease. OBJECTIVES Here we investigated the tecovirimat susceptibility of 18 clinical isolates of monkeypox virus (MPXV) obtained from different regions of Brazil. METHODS Different concentrations of tecovirimat were added to cell monolayers infected with each MPXV isolate. After 72 hours, cells were fixed and stained for plaque visualization, counting, and measurement. The ortholog of F13L gene from each MPXV isolate was polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified, sequenced, and the predicted protein sequences were analyzed. FINDINGS The eighteen MPXV isolates generated plaques of different sizes. Although all isolates were highly sensitive to the drug, two showed different response curves and IC50 values. However, the target protein of tecovirimat, F13 (VP37), was 100% conserved in all MPXV isolates and therefore does not explain the difference in sensitivity. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our results support screening different MPXV isolates for tecovirimat susceptibility as an important tool to better use of the restricted number of tecovirimat doses available in low-income countries to treat patients with mpox.