Research, Society and Development

Food selectivity in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Chaueny Keven Maciel Rodrigues — 2025-04-03

A healthy and adequate diet is important from childhood, as it helps prevent various non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and mineral and vitamin deficiencies. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may have restricted interests, including eating habits. This results in limited consumption of food groups, developing food refusal or selectivity, where they base their diet on visual issues, smell and texture, and not just taste, having preferences for certain foods, denying themselves to eat, try or get to know other foods, requiring treatment and the use of strategies to increase this consumption in a pleasurable and pressure-free way, respecting the child's time and decision. The objective of the article is to present a study on food selectivity in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, through a narrative review. The analysis of food selectivity in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder reveals the complexity of the interactions between food preferences, child development and health. Therefore, the importance of playful and educational approaches to encourage the exploration of different foods is noted, promoting not only the acceptance of a more varied diet, but also the development of sensory and social skills through the implementation of strategies that respect the rhythm and children's needs to avoid frustrations and battles during mealtimes.

The brazilian elderly population and alcohol consumption: An integrative review

Camila Gomes Neves — 2025-04-04

The demographic shift in Brazil, marked by a growing elderly population, has brought about increased attention to the health outcomes of older adults. Alcohol consumption is an associated risk factor. Although traditionally more prevalent in younger age groups, recent studies have revealed an upward trend in alcohol consumption among the elderly, representing an emerging public health concern. However, studies focusing on the elderly are limited, as the majority of investigations have concentrated on younger age groups. This integrative review was conducted to analyze existing research on patterns of alcohol use among elderly individuals in Brazil, highlighting the strong associations between alcohol use in older adults and variables such as sex, ethnicity, age, education, socioeconomic status, health status, and tobacco use. National data indicate an increase in alcohol use among older adults, but there are still barriers to fully analyzing the current patterns. Furthermore, the review found no consistent evidence connecting alcohol intake with chronic diseases or oral health complications in the elderly population. Nevertheless, evidence suggests an association with declining physical performance. No study has addressed the psychological impact of alcohol consumption on the elderly.

The importance of carbohydrate intake for high-performance athletes in endurance exercises

Felipe Ferreira Lima — 2025-04-06

Adequate nutrition is essential for endurance athletes, directly influencing performance, recovery, and muscle and liver glycogen stores. This study aimed to demonstrate the importance of proper carbohydrate (CHO) intake for high-performance athletes during endurance training and competitions, addressing effective nutritional strategies, physiological adaptations, and specific recommendations to optimize performance and recovery. Based on articles published between 2014 and 2024 in SCIELO, PubMed, BIREME, and EBSCO, the review highlighted strategies such as combining different types of CHO to maximize absorption and exercise intensity adaptation. Results showed that a daily intake of 7-10 g/kg of CHO is required to replenish glycogen stores within 24 hours, while consuming 60-90 g/h during exercise improves energy oxidation and reduces fatigue. Gastrointestinal training also proved relevant, enhancing CHO tolerance and absorption while minimizing discomfort and optimizing performance. Inadequate nutritional planning was associated with energy deficits and insufficient muscle recovery. The study concluded that personalized nutrition, with specialized guidance, is crucial for maximizing results, preventing injuries, and accelerating recovery. Additionally, further research is needed to refine high-performance nutritional strategies. In summary, adequate CHO intake, combined with strategies like gastrointestinal training, is key to success in endurance sports, emphasizing the importance of individualized nutritional interventions for elite athletes.

Dental anomalies in patients with Down syndrome

Ariane da Silva Mendes Drumond — 2025-04-12

Dental anomalies are common findings in patients with Down syndrome, directly influencing the oral health and quality of life of these individuals. The relevance of this study lies in the need for an in-depth understanding of the specific orofacial and dental characteristics observed in patients with Down syndrome (DS), considering the significant prevalence of malocclusions, maxillary hypoplasia and periodontal diseases. The objective was to review dental anomalies in patients with Down syndrome. This research consists of an integrative literature review, which is an appropriate method to perform a systematic analysis of a specific problem within the scientific field, allowing the identification of gaps in existing knowledge. Patients with Down syndrome have a high prevalence of dental anomalies, such as hypodontia, taurodontism and changes in the chronology of dental inheritance, reinforcing the need for dental follow-up. In addition, there is a significant incidence of malocclusions, anterior open bite and periodontal problems, which, associated with muscle hypotonia and motor difficulties, can compromise masticatory function and adequate oral hygiene, highlighting the importance of early interventions and multidisciplinary planning.

Recent applications of the DP4+ method in the stereochemical elucidation of complex natural alkaloids

Isac George Rosset — 2025-04-19

Stereochemical determination of natural compounds is essential for understanding their biological and pharmacological properties. The aim of this study is to present a narrative review in which recent studies (2021 to 2024) that used the DP4+ method to assign stereochemical configurations of natural alkaloids are presented and discussed. The DP4+ method proved to be highly effective in distinguishing between isomers with multiple chiral centers, even in complex structures. Furthermore, the reviewed compounds demonstrated a wide range of biological activities, reinforcing the importance of stereochemical rigor in natural product studies. DP4+ has established itself as an indispensable tool in natural product chemistry, especially when seeking to integrate structural rigor with pharmacological potential. Its application is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, especially with advances in simulation methods and statistical analysis.

Impact of COVID-19 on the epidemiological profile of Heart Failure (HF) in the 10th Regional of Paraná

Beatriz David Lopes — 2025-04-20

This study aimed to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the epidemiological profile of Heart Failure (HF) in the 10th Health Region of Paraná. It is a descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective and documentary study based on DATASUS data, with a quantitative approach (Pereira, 2018). Descriptive statistics were used with averages and absolute and relative frequencies (Shitsuka et al., 2014). The analysis covered data such as hospitalizations, deaths, mortality rates, average hospital stay and cost per patient between 2018 and 2024. A drop in hospitalizations and a rise in mortality rate were observed during the pandemic. Post-pandemic data showed a gradual recovery. It is concluded that the pandemic significantly affected the management of HF, highlighting the importance of continuous care strategies.

Rhodium (Rh): Metallic complexes applied against cancer

Leonardo Marmo Moreira — 2025-04-03

This article consists of a review study focused on rhodium (Rh) metal complexes, covering the different possible oxidation states (rhodium(0), rhodium(I), rhodium(II) and rhodium(III)), aiming at a probable application of such coordination compounds in the fight against cancer. Rhodium (Rh) is an element of the platinum (Pt) group and one of the natural candidates for replacing the platinum coordination center in metal complexes that act biologically in a similar way to cisplatin and its analogues and successors. Therefore, the objective of this article is to discuss, through a bibliographic review, the aspects of the coordination chemistry of rhodium (Rh) and its mechanism of action in biological media aiming at its use against different manifestations of cancer, as a possible replacement for the so-called “classical” platinum (Pt) complexes, which are applied against cancer cells of different biological tissues. Finally, future perspectives for the applications of rhodium (Rh) complexes in chemotherapy are presented, as an “anticancer agent”, either alone or as a coadjuvant compound of platinum complexes.

Analysis of the period of admission to gyms according to sex and age group

Reginaldo Luiz do Nascimento — 2025-04-05

The study aimed to analyze the enrollment period of newcomers in fitness centers in Petrolina-PE according to sex and age group for eight years. 5,135 individuals participated in the study, 2,095 men and 3,040 women, aged between 18 and 75 years old, classified as sedentary and apparently healthy. The subjects were allocated into seven groups (G1 = <20 years; G2 = 20 to 29 years; G3 = 30 to 39 years; G4 = 40 to 49 years; G5 = 50 to 59 years; G6 = 60 to 69 years and G7 => 70 years). Between 2009 and 2016, the year with the highest demand for fitness centers was 2012 with 1,157 new enrollments, while 2009 was the lowest year with 370 new students. The months of greatest student adherence were January, July and October, while February, June and December had the lowest number. The groups aged 20 to 29 and 30 to 39 years old were the ones who most sought physical training environments, followed by those under 20 years old. It was concluded that the months corresponding to the vacations had a greater adhesion of enrollments in the gyms, in which women and younger people, between 20 and 29 years old, showed greater interest in practicing physical exercise. In addition, the months of February, June and December, considered festive months, had the lowest number of entrants, and these showed less interest in physical activity with age.

Early treatment of anterior open bite

Amanda Aparecida Ozório Pastor — 2025-04-10

This study aimed to analyze, through a narrative review, the early treatment of anterior open bite, highlighting its main characteristics and the most commonly used interventions. Anterior open bite is characterized by a type of malocclusion that is highly prevalent in young patients where there is a negative vertical overlap between the anterior teeth. Selected studies that directly addressed anterior open bite were used for the development of this work. The results showed how this condition can be classified as dentoalveolar and skeletal, directly interfering with the growth and development of facial structures, thus impairing the basic functions of the stomatognathic system such as chewing, phonetics, swallowing, facial growth and aesthetics. Anterior open bite presented a multifactorial etiology including genetic and environmental causes; factors that generate the worsening of this condition over time, leading to great difficulty in the therapeutic approach. It was concluded that early treatment in cases of dentoalveolar anterior open bite is based on the interruption of deleterious habits, and in situations of skeletal origin, it is based on orthopedic growth control. Therefore, early intervention is extremely important to achieve adequate growth of the maxillomandibular joint, thus avoiding more complex interventions later on.

Management of postoperative pain in dental surgeries: literature review

Helena Borges Coelho — 2025-04-10

In Dentistry, many procedures are related to the recovery of tissue damage, especially in oral surgeries, which require surgical maneuvers such as incisions, detachments and manipulation of soft tissues, causing their discontinuity and the need for healing. The search for pain management in the post-surgical period is a constant objective of scholars on the subject, and there are currently several resources available to achieve this objective. Understanding the methods used to control postoperative pain in dental surgeries is part of the professional training of dentists, since it is a factor that is related to the success of the treatment. Therefore, understanding the pathophysiological mechanism of pain and conventional and adjuvant therapies is essential in clinical practice, being relevant for humanized treatment of patients. Given this reality, this study aims to identify the main conventional pharmacological and adjuvant therapies that effectively manage postoperative pain in dental surgeries, by conducting a state-of-the-art study on the subject, that is, developing a research that maps the academic productions on the subject and presents an overview of the subject. A literature review was carried out, through a search in scientific articles, books, case studies and bibliographic reviews published in a period of up to 10 years prior to the formulation of this study, in reliable sources and websites such as: PubMed, Google Scholar and SciELO.

Emotional sufferings involved in teaching work manifested by teachers: A literature review

Ronaldo Antonio da Silva — 2025-04-11

The work of teachers from early childhood education to higher education daily implies emotional suffering, which, if prolonged, can trigger psychological and/or physical pathologies. Thus, considering this problem, this article aimed to map in the scientific literature the emotional sufferings involved in teaching work manifested by teachers. This is a narrative literature review carried out in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) using two Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS). The search located 86 scientific articles, and after reading the title and abstract, eight were included as a corpus of analysis. For analysis, a detailed reading was carried out, as well as a critical analysis of the texts, with the extraction of the following data: authors and year, article title, and the emotional sufferings manifested by teachers. The results showed that teachers frequently manifested emotional sufferings, regardless of the level of education they taught, encompassing early childhood education, elementary school, and higher education. In general, the sufferings ranged from stress, frustration, exhaustion, overload, and emotional wear. In conclusion, teachers from early childhood education, elementary school, and even higher education manifested emotional sufferings involved in teaching work. And considering that emotional suffering causes risks to the subject's health, these results, which highlighted sufferings exposed by education professionals, can be used as indicators of vulnerability and illness, due to their potential to evolve into pathological physical and psychological symptoms, as occurs, for example, in Burnout Syndrome.

Importance of animal welfare in pre-slaughter management of cattle: Literature review

Cintia Soares de Souza — 2025-04-22

The growing demand for beef driven by population growth requires Brazilian livestock farming to strike a balance between productive efficiency and socio-environmental responsibility. In this context, this study aims to highlight the importance of animal welfare in the pre-slaughter handling of cattle and its relationship with the final quality of the meat. The methodology used was a literature review based on scientific articles and academic publications from the main databases. The results indicate that inadequate practices in the transportation, loading, unloading and stunning of animals increase stress, compromising animal welfare and resulting in economic losses and inferior meat quality, as in the case of DFD meat. On the other hand, the adoption of good practices reduces bruising, improves parameters such as pH and meat tenderness, in addition to meeting legal, ethical and market requirements. It is concluded that investment in technologies and training is essential to promote more humane and sustainable management, which values animal welfare at all stages of the production process.

Pharmacological and toxicological aspects of fentanil: Review and synthesis of evidence

José Emidio da Silva Neto — 2025-04-28

Drug abuse is a current and worrying topic, as it is a global public health problem. The indiscriminate and recreational use of fentanyl has become a growing concern worldwide, contributing significantly to the opioid overdose crisis. Although it is an effective analgesic, its potential for addiction and the risks associated with inappropriate use are alarming. The objective of this study was to analyze the pharmacological and toxicological aspects as a consequence of indiscriminate use, through an integrative literature review. The methodology included an integrative literature review, through publications in the LILACS, SCIELO and PUBMED databases, between the years 2014-2024, using the descriptors opioids, fentanyl and drug abuse, considering as inclusion criteria articles indexed in national and international journals accessed in full text in Portuguese and English; and as exclusion criteria articles that did not fit the objectives, course completion papers, dissertations, theses and editorial notes. This study found a total of 200 articles in the three databases analyzed during the research. However, after the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 articles were selected to compose the literature review. The analysis of the 15 studies allowed us to identify that fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, used to treat intense pain, especially in cases of cancer or after surgeries, but its effects on the other hand can cause very exorbitant dependence when administered incorrectly. Its main antagonist is naxolone.

Gold (Au): Metallic complexes applied against rheumatoid arthritis and cancer

Leonardo Marmo Moreira — 2025-04-30

The present article consists of a review study focused on the chemistry of gold (Au), especially gold (Au) metal complexes, covering the different possible oxidation states (gold(0), gold(I), gold(II) and gold(III)) and their applications as active ingredients of medicines, especially in the fight against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and cancer. Gold (Au) is an element of the copper group (group 11) and has been considered one of the candidates for the replacement of the platinic coordination center (Pt) in metal complexes that act biologically in a similar way to the already classic metal complex known as "cisplatin", (cis-diaminodichloroplatin(II), cis-Pt(NH3)2Cl2), as well as their respective analogous compounds and successors. The aim of this article is to discuss, through a bibliographic review, the aspects of the medicinal chemistry of gold compounds (Au) and their mechanism of action in biological media, aiming at their use against different diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and various manifestations of cancer. The renowned drug Auranofin, its current context and the new attempts at pharmacological application of this renowned product are also discussed. Finally, future perspectives are presented for the applications of gold (Au) complexes both in the action as a drug against RA and in relation to its "anticancer action", either alone or as an adjuvant compound of platinic complexes.

Analysis of Mozambique's Public Policies in the sugar-energy sector

Domingos Mário Zeca Fernando — 2025-04-20

A concerted effort has been underway to identify novel solutions that will supplant the use of fossil fuels, the combustion of which has been identified as a primary contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. The objective of this paper is to analyze Mozambican public policies regarding the dissemination of the sugar cane sector and its contribution to the national energy matrix. The analysis revealed that the prominent sugar companies, namely Maragra, Xinavane, Chemba, Marromeu, and Mafambisse, collectively produced 2,737,556 tons of sugar cane during the 2019/2020 harvest season, cultivated across an expanse of 47,351 hectares. Regarding sugarcane production, the country possesses the capacity to yield 766,516 tons of bagasse, which has the potential to generate approximately 331,135 megawatt-hours (MWh) per annum. This would be sufficient to supply 689,864 inhabitants per hour. However, the prevailing public policies in Mozambique's energy sector currently do not mandate the sale or supply of surplus energy produced by industries to the national electricity grid.

Do different autumn-winter crops correlate with various times and doses of glyphosate in desiccation influence weed infestation in soybean crops?

Thaís Stradioto Melo — 2025-04-02

The objective was to evaluate the composition of the weed community in soybean crops after different autumn/winter crops under different doses and times of glyphosate application before soybean sowing. The experiment was conducted at Embrapa Agropecuária Oeste, in Dourados MS. The treatments evaluated were: T1: area of brachiaria desiccated 5 days before soybean sowing - DAS, with 2 L ha-1 of glyphosate; T2: brachiaria desiccated 5 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T3: brachiaria desiccated 30 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T4: brachiaria desiccated 30 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T5: desiccated consortium 5 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T6: desiccated consortium 5 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T7: desiccated consortium 30 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T8: desiccated consortium 30 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T9: desiccated cowpea 5 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T10: desiccated cowpea 5 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T11: desiccated cowpea 30 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T12: desiccated cowpea 30 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T13: desiccated corn 5 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T14: desiccated corn 5 DAS with 4 L ha-1; T15: desiccated corn 30 DAS with 2 L ha-1; T16: desiccated corn 30 DAS with 4 L ha-1. There were differences in weed diversity and infestation. Treatments with desiccation at 30 DAS showed greater dry mass among weed species. In short, in early desiccation there is a greater infestation of weeds, especially where there was cowpea and single corn as the predecessor crop at the lowest desiccation dose.

Implementation, management and perspectives of the Agroforestry System (SAF) in the Sossego location in Floriano, Piauí (PI)

Matheus da Silva Santos — 2025-04-05

The investigation aims to describe the Agroforestry System (SAF) implementation, management, and perspectives at the Sossego locality in the Municipality of Floriano, State of Piauí (PI), Brazil. This SAF primarily utilizes the plant Mimosa caesalpiniifolia (J. Bot. Hooker, 1841), commonly known as "Sabiá," with the intention of improving soil quality to enable crop rotation and promote the locality sustainable economic development. The implementation activities occured between December 2023 and January 2024 with the collaboration of students from the Biological Sciences Teaching Degree at IFPI - Floriano Campus, as part of the Curricular Extension activities in partnership with the ABC Project for Human Rights and the Diocesan and Caritas of Floriano-PI. The SAF in the Sossego locality is organized in two configurations: double rows of Sabiá, with 5 meters of distance between them, interspersed with other plants such as ipê (Handroanthus ochraceus), Aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi), and Tingui (Magonia pubescens), and single rows; and the other with Sabiás spaced 1 meter apart. During the extension activities carried out by the students in the locality, several activities are performed to contribute to the functioning and maintenance of the SAF, including cleaning pruning, formation pruning, and guiding pruning of the Sabiá. Through this, the students enhance their theoretical and technical knowledge in a practical and applied manner, aiming to promote Sustainable Development.

Planting system for herbaceous cotton, cultivars Del Cerro and BRS Acala with extra-long fiber, for the Semi-arid region

Vicente de Paula Queiroga — 2025-04-11

This study aimed to present the agronomic management and productive and technological characteristics of extra-long fiber cotton produced by producers in Peru (cv. Del Cerro) and Brazil (cv. BRS Acala), aiming to encourage and expand its cultivation in the Brazilian Semi-arid region. To this end, a narrative review was chosen, which was carried out through research of bibliographic references in different indexing databases (CAPES Journal Portal, Google Scholar and Scielo), and also in the references of the studies selected to compose this article, always looking for themes related to the culture studied. As it is a proposal for employment and income for the Northeast region, Embrapa Algodão (Cotton) has identified important technological processes related to the production system that enhance yield and improve the quality of cotton Gossypium hirsutum latifolium breed, whose fiber over 36 mm in length manages achieve a high market price. Based on the results obtained for the cultivar BRS Acala in rainfed and irrigated conditions in the trials conducted in the Northeast (BA, RN and CE), their respective yields were 2,719 kg/ha and 4,900 kg/ha, combined with adequate soil preparation and efficient cultural management.

Potential use of urban sewage sludge as an energy source

Keliane de Jesus Reis — 2025-04-24

The sewage sludge is a potential economic and environmental problem in Brazil, since its disposal is mostly carried out in landfills. Using this waste as a source of energy, in addition to promoting a sustainable and efficient strategy for generating clean energy, also acts as a source of support for the basic sanitation sector. Thus, the study aimed to evaluate the energy potential of raw and pyrolyzed sewage sludge through the Higher Calorific Value (HCV). An exploratory, laboratory study of a quantitative nature was carried out. The analyses were performed duplicate with the aid of the IKA C-200 calorimetric bomb, using the average values obtained for each material. Analyzing the results obtained, average values of 20.07 and 10.13 MJ.kg-1 were observed for the raw and carbonized samples, respectively. These values corroborate those found in literature for materials already consolidated in energy generation, such as wood, for example. Thus, it is concluded that urban sewage waste can be used for energy purposes with emphasis on its use in its direct form in natura.

Organic functions in everyday life: Nail polish as a pedagogical resource

Daniele de Brito Trindade — 2025-04-11

The aim of this article is to present the results of a study that investigated students' difficulties in establishing connections between organic functions and nail polish, a cosmetic widely used in daily life. To address this issue, the thematic workshop “Identification of Organic Compounds in Nail Polish” was developed and applied to 28 third-year high school students from a public school in the district of Ibitira, municipality of Rio do Antônio/BA. The research employed questionnaires with open and closed-ended questions, administered before and after the workshop, to assess the impact of the activity on students’ learning. The results indicated that the contextualized approach significantly contributed to the understanding of organic chemistry concepts, promoting greater student engagement and active participation in the teaching-learning process. Statistical analysis, using the McNemar test at a 5% significance level, revealed significant advances in knowledge about organic functions and their application in everyday life, reinforcing the relevance of thematic workshops as na innovative pedagogical strategy. It is concluded that the use of active methodologies, combined with content contextualization, can facilitate learning and stimulate students’ interest in chemistry, making teaching more dynamic and meaningful. Thus, the thematic workshop proved to be na effective tool for strengthening the connection between theory and practice, contributing to the development of more critical and participative students.

Beef production in the finishing phase within the intensive system in beef cattle farming

Danilla de Souza Mazarin — 2025-04-02

Currently, Brazil is the world leader in beef exports. In view of this, this study aims to analyze the main factors that influence beef production in the finishing phase within the intensive system, highlighting nutritional strategies available in the current market with efficiency indexes, the choice of breeds and their impact on meat quality. A qualitative study and narrative review of the literature were carried out. Raising beef cattle in the finishing phase in confinement has shown great viability within the national scenario of beef cattle farming. Its performance has been growing and gaining recognition due to its advantageous economic and operational factors, justified by the better use and significant gain in carcass of confined animals in a relatively short period, consequent strategic and balanced feeding. As with any activity, this also has some challenges that are still difficult to adjust, therefore, it would be of great importance if there were more studies and research focused on this activity, triggering smarter options with lower financial costs so that profit has the deserved prominence.

Diagnosis of agricultural systems in Communal Section of Pont-Tamarin- Gonaïves, Haïti: Case of Zone I

Jonas Débréus — 2025-04-23

The study conducted in the Pont-Tamarin region, Zone I (Haiti), aims to diagnose local agricultural systems and identify and assess the parameters influencing their sustainability. Using an exploratory methodology that included questionnaires administered to 42 farmers and field visits. The results reveal a predominance of diverse crops such as leeks, carrots, rice, corn, sorghum, beans, beets, eggplants, peppers, and tomatoes, alongside limited livestock farming by a minority. Although some farmers adopt organic or transitional practices, the majority rely on conventional agriculture for economics purpose and to meet the market demands, thereby compromising the sustainability of agroecosystems in the study area. Despite being aware of the challenges, farmers struggle to change their practices without external support. The study concludes that improving agricultural sustainability in the region depends on technical assistance and training from public authorities to promote agroecological practices and ensure a transition toward more resilient and environmentally respectful farming.

Use of rehydrated corn in feeding confined cattle

Ryan Borges de Jesus da Silva — 2025-04-24

Rehydrated corn is one of the processing methods that makes the corn grain that has been broken and rehydrated more readily available in terms of starch, which is transformed into energy more quickly in the body. The objective of this study is to show the performance of animals on different diets with and without rehydrated corn grain. A documentary research was carried out from a direct source. The information was extracted from a database with the history of consumption and performance of animals in the Zona da Mata region of Rondônia. The data were compared between the performance of the two groups. The results were analyzed and a comparison was made to justify the use and efficiency of rehydrated grain in the diet, and the positive points of the diet with rehydrated corn grain, where the animals presented lower dry matter consumption, better biological efficiency and better feed conversion. A diet with greater starch availability obtains more energy, the animals take less time to reach chemical satiety, leading to a reduction in dry matter consumption.

Main reproductive diseases that affect cows after calving in the State of Rondônia

Jaqueline Assini Masquio — 2025-04-25

This article aims to describe the main reproductive diseases that affect cows in the postpartum period, highlighting metritis, placenta retention, and metabolic disorders, such as ketosis and abomasa displacement. The study was carried out through a literature review. The negative impact of these diseases on milk productivity and the reproductive efficiency of herds was verified, compromising the sustainability of rural properties. The implementation of preventive measures and early diagnosis is essential to minimize these impacts. The results obtained in this review indicate that correct management of the puerperium can significantly improve conception rates and reduce associated economic losses. Prevention and early diagnosis are essential to maintaining the reproductive health of animals and ensuring good results in livestock activity.

Repeatability and minimum number of bunches for evaluating pataua palm (Oenocarpus bataua) germplasm

Maria do Socorro Padilha de Oliveira — 2025-04-26

The Pataua palm (Oenocarpus bataua Mart.) is a perennial food palm tree, widely distributed in the northern states. Its potential lies in its fruits, which are used in beverages, popsicles, ice cream, liqueurs, nectar, jellies and in the extraction of olive oil similar to that of olives. The market is local, supplied by fruits from extractivism, due to the scarcity of information for domestication. The objective was to estimate the repeatability coefficients, determine the predictability and the minimum number of bunches in Pataua palm genotypes for germplasm evaluation. Data were collected from 31 genotypes in full production, kept in the Pataua palm Active Germplasm Bank (BAG Pataua palm), at Embrapa Amazon Eastern, Belém, PA. From each genotype, two successive bunches were collected and six characters evaluated. The repeatability coefficients, determination and the number of measurements required were estimated by three methods in the Genes software. The repeatabilities ranged from 0.14 to 0.80, with the lowest values in the fruit yield per bunch (FYB) and bunch rachis length (BRL), and the highest in the weight of ten fruits (WTF). The coefficients of determination ranged from 24.5% to 88.8%, with WTF being the most accurate. The number of measurements ranged from one (WTF, 0.85) to 116 (FYB, 0.95) bunches. The WTF presented the best predictions at two levels (0.85 and 0.90). Thus, the PDF is indicated as a descriptor for evaluating the germplasm of the species, using one to five bunches, ensuring predictability of up to 95% of the real value.

Chemical composition and availability of phytomass in different pastures in dry, rainy and transition seasons

Dinnara Layza Souza da Silva — 2025-04-29

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and availability of phytomass in rangeland, grass land and Sabia forest at different times of the year. Forage availability samples were collected in November 2023 (dry-rainy transition), March (rainy season), June (rainy-dry transition) and September (dry season) of 2024 in three pasture areas: Sabia forest, mombaça grass pasture and rangeland with abundance of mimoso grass. The statistical design used was completely randomized design with four treatments: dry-rainy transition, rain, rain-dry transition, drought and 10 replicates. The phytomass availability data were subjected to analysis of variance and the means compared by Tukey's test at 5% probability, using the Sisvar 5.0 Software. The chemical composition of the Sabia forest showed a higher crude protein content. Mombaça grass showed greater forage availability in the rainy, rainy-dry, and dry seasons, decreasing significantly in the dry-rainy transition season to only 2197 kg DM ha-1. Rangeland with an abundance of mimoso grass showed greater variation in phytomass availability, with the dry-rainy transition season having the lowest availability (66 kg DM ha-1). Rangeland with a predominance of mimoso grass has low phytomass availability and greater variation in forage production throughout the year. It also has low crude protein content. Pasture with mombaça grass has greater forage availability and accepts higher stocking rates than rangeland rich in mimoso grass.

Recurrence of Pulmonary Embolism in a patient using Rivaroxaban: Attention to Nephrotic Syndrome

Cinthya Martins de Loiola Costa — 2025-04-22

Nephrotic syndrome is a disease associated with thromboembolic events, including pulmonary thromboembolism. According to guidelines such as KDIGO, these patients benefit from the use of anticoagulants for prevention and treatment, with warfarin being the most recommended. The use of novel oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has been increasingly expanding in clinical practice; however, their administration remains controversial in the literature for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic events in individuals diagnosed with glomerulopathies. The objective of this article is to present a case report of a patient who was hospitalized in a tertiary hospital due to a pulmonary thromboembolism and was discharged on rivaroxaban therapy. The patient was readmitted one month after discharge due to worsening dyspnea associated with ventilator-dependent pain. A new angiotomography showed the presence of new areas of pulmonary infarction, despite being on therapeutic anticoagulation with rivaroxaban. On physical examination, symmetrical and painless edema of the lower limbs up to the knees was noted. During the investigation of the triggering factor, a 24-hour proteinuria test was requested, revealing 12g/24 hours, and anti-PLA2R positivity, confirming the diagnosis of primary membranous glomerulopathy.

Relationship between colon cancer survival, resected lymph nodes and clinical-demographic characteristics

Miguel Mateo Sarmiento Álvarez — 2025-04-07

Objective: Establish the relationship between colon cancer survival, resected lymph nodes and their clinical and demographic characteristics. Methodology: This is an observational, retrospective, descriptive and cross-sectional study, based on the review of medical records. Results: The study reviewed 230 medical records of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), more than half of whom were women between 50 and 75 years old. 71.3% of surgeries were elective, with 65.2% performed by videolaparoscopy, with the most common location being the rectosigmoid colon in 6 of 10 patients. Patients over 50 years had a higher median survival of 96 months. Survival was higher for tumors in the transverse colon, N0 and stage IIB. Most tumors were classified as T3 (54.8%) and N0 (53.9%). 90% of patients were in M0. Survival was higher in patients with 12 or more lymph nodes removed (88 months) compared with less than 12 (80 months). 89.6% did not receive neoadjuvant therapy, but among those who did, 9.1% used chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Chemotherapy was the adjuvant treatment in 52.6% of cases. Conclusion: CRC remains a health problem, with an increased incidence in younger patients. Overall survival is influenced by factors such as tumor location, sex, age, disease stage, and lymph node involvement. In the study, the removal of 12 or more lymph nodes did not provide a significant survival advantage, and the presence of metastatic lymph nodes worsened the prognosis. Lymphadenectomy remains essential in the curative treatment of CRC, allowing better staging and guidance for chemotherapy.

Syphilis mimicking primary biliary cholangitis

Danyel Augusto Sousa Castro Oliveira — 2025-04-05

Introduction: Syphilitic hepatitis can be defined as a cholestatic pattern of elevated enzymes with treponemic serological evidence, when there is an absence of alternative causes of hepatic aggression. Infections are considered important environmental factors that contribute to decreased tolerance to autoantigens, which can trigger autoimmune diseases. The aim of this article is to report a case in which syphilis mimicked the clinical picture and laboratory findings of primary biliary cholangitis, an autoimmune cholestatic disease. Case report: a 20-year-old man, immunocompetent, admitted with nausea, pruritus, jaundice, choluria, fecal acolia, inappetence, vomiting, fever, chills, epigastric pain and weight loss for about 20 days. Laboratory exams showed hyperbilirubinemia at the expense of direct bilirubin and elevated liver enzymes with a canalicular pattern, VDRL reagent 1/256, antimitochondria 1/80. After eradication of Treponema with benzathine penicillin, the patient developed complete recovery of the clinical picture, an important decrease in VDRL (1/4), disappearance of autoantibody and complete biochemical normalization. Conclusion: The present case highlights the importance of properly performed anamnesis, physical examination and adequate follow-up until the response or not to treatment, to confirm the diagnosis. It is important to include secondary syphilis among the possible causes of liver disease.

Morbidity and mortality in elderly patients admitted to the emergency room of a university hospital in the Brazilian Unified Health System in western Paraná, in 2023

Bruno Hering Genske — 2025-04-01

The increasing aging of the population and the coexistence of multiple chronic diseases in elderly patients, they tend to require more hospitalization than young adults, as well as a greater chance of clinical complications and mortality and higher costs with hospitalizations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to collect data on the clinical-epidemiological profile and clinical outcome of the main causes of hospitalizations of elderly patients admitted to the emergency room in a university hospital that operates within the scope of the Unified Health System (SUS) and to verify the relationship of other relevant variables in the clinical outcome of the patient, such as comorbidities and clinical complications. This is an observational, retrospective, cross-sectional, quantitative study, in which a sample of 40% of patients aged 60 years or older admitted in 2023 was randomly selected. The results indicate that 32.66% of the patients were hospitalized due to cardiac causes, with arterial hypertension as the main associated comorbidity and the main laboratory tests being statistically significant in relation to the outcome. In conclusion, laboratory tests altered in relation to the reference range at admission, such as hemoglobin, leukocytes, neutrophils, rods, lymphocytes, arterial lactate, urea, creatinine, glucose, CRP and albumin, are associated with hospital outcome.

Histological changes induced by local anesthetic with vasoconstrictor in the tails of Wistar rats

Pedro Henrique Dornelas — 2025-04-12

The present study aimed to evaluate the deleterious effects of the use of local anesthetic associated with vasoconstrictors (Lidocaine + epinephrine 1:200000) in the extremities, for which it was administered to the middle portion of the tail of Wistar rats. Twenty healthy male rats weighing approximately 250g were used. These animals were divided into four groups containing five rats each. The tail of animals from groups G1, G2 and G3 was anesthetized subcutaneously with lidocaine at a dose of 2mg/kg, 4mg/kg, 7mg/kg, respectively, all associated with epinephrine 1:200.000. Subjective (appearance, color, edema) and objective (tail diameter) data were collected. Subsequently, histopathological analysis of the tissue inoculated with the drug was performed in search of signs of necrosis. After analyzing the data collected, there were no significant signs of necrosis, so it was possible to infer that the use of lidocaine associated with epinephrine (1:200000) in body parts whose vascularization is of small caliber, such as the tail of Wistar rats, would be safe.

Pharmaceutical services and/or pharmaceutical care for elderly individuals with multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and hearing impairment: Scope review

Gregório Carvalho Alves — 2025-04-10

Objective: To map the tools and strategies applied in pharmaceutical services and/or pharmaceutical care for elderly individuals with polymorbidities, polypharmacy, and hearing impairment in the context of health education. Methodology: This is a scoping review following the guidelines established by the JBI, guided by the acronym PCC in which: Participants: Elderly individuals with polymorbidities, polypharmacy, and hearing impairment; Concept: Educational Strategies and Tools; Context: Pharmaceutical Services and/or Pharmaceutical Care. The expected time frame was from 2020 to 2024, published in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. Scientific databases, repositories of scientific articles, and Google Scholar were used. Results: six articles met the inclusion criteria. The studies summarize the specificities of the demands of elderly patients with polymorbidities, polypharmacy, and hearing impairment, highlighting the measures and tools implemented in health services for this population, from the perspective of what is recommended and what is found in the practice of pharmaceutical services for effective communication with the patient. Conclusion: Elderly patients with hearing impairment who present a picture of polymorbidities and consequent polypharmacy have needs which Goes beyond purely pharmaceutical knowledge. They are required to understand cultural and linguistic aspects and demand specific pharmaceutical care strategies.

Digital age-related disorders: An epidemiological analysis

Maria Clara de Oliveira Gadelha Dantas — 2025-04-04

Technological advancement and the excessive use of digital devices have raised concerns related to mental and physical health, especially among children and adolescents. Disorders such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and digital addiction have become increasingly prevalent, with hyperconnectivity and excessive screen time being significant risk factors. Thus, this study aims to synthesize the main scientific findings on the topic, identifying epidemiological trends, the most vulnerable population groups, and the prevention and intervention strategies described in the literature. Social media addiction, the fear of social exclusion, and the constant search for validation are frequently associated with excessive technology use, affecting young people's behavior and interpersonal relationships. Studies also point to the physical impact of technology, such as sleep disorders and musculoskeletal pain. The World Health Organization recognizes these disorders as public health concerns, including digital addiction and disorders related to video game use. To mitigate these effects, the research highlights the importance of preventive strategies, such as educational campaigns for parents, educators, and adolescents, as well as the regulation of screen exposure time. The narrative review of studies also emphasizes the need for effective public policies and the development of safer and healthier digital spaces. The scarcity of studies in non-Western contexts limits the generalization of results, indicating the need for research in different regions and cultures.

Main bacteria of hospital infection after neurosurgery: A narrative review

Jesiel de Assis Pacheco — 2025-04-16

Post-neurosurgical procedure infections, resulting from direct contact with bacteria within the surgical center, directly affect the patient's good prognosis, leading to complications that can lead to admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). According to a survey of data from the World Health Organization (WHO), in Brazil alone, surgical site infections (SSI) are responsible for around 15% of all infections related to healthcare, increasing the average length of stay in the ICU by 60%. The Central Nervous System (CNS) controls the body's functions, guiding almost everything through signals in networks of neurons and releasing substances at the tips of cells. The nervous tissue feels everything from the outside and inside, reacting by sending rapid and constant nervous warnings. In summary, central nervous system infections continue to be a significant burden on healthcare systems around the world. However, advances made in understanding its pathophysiology in the last 20 years surpass anything that has been done before.

Institutionalization of pharmaceutical services in the municipality of Belém, Pará, Brazil

Bruna Danielle Conde de Carvalho — 2025-04-09

Objective: To present demographic, socioeconomic, epidemiological, governance and pharmaceutical services management data and information in the municipality of Belém, Pará. Methodology: This is an exploratory, descriptive and analytical study, retrospective for the years 2020 to 2024. Results: The municipality of Belém has an estimated population of 1,303,403 inhabitants; GDP per capita of R$ 33,055.36; Schooling rate for 6 to 14 years of age of 96%; HDI-M of 0.628; Gini index of 0.746; Infant mortality rate of 27.6 deaths per thousand births. Regarding the Institutionalization of Pharmaceutical Assistance, the municipality partially meets the indicators related to the dimensions of human resources, governance, planning and management, structure and organization, sectoral policies and technical-managerial actions and technical-assistance actions. Conclusion: There are problems to be overcome in the context of Pharmaceutical Assistance regarding the dimensions of human resources, governance, planning, management, structure, organization, sectoral policies, technical-managerial actions and technical-assistance actions. Additional efforts need to be made to improve, monitor and evaluate the governance, planning and management process, aiming to qualify programs, actions, activities and tasks inherent to the provision of effective, efficient and sustainable Pharmaceutical Assistance.

Epidemiological study of hospitalization due to malnutrition in the municipality of Cascavel, Paraná, from 2018 to 2023

Vitória Alves Inoue — 2025-04-25

Malnutrition is a condition characterized by caloric, protein, vitamin, and mineral deficiencies resulting from poor nutrition. Its causes are varied, including food scarcity, disorders affecting food intake, malabsorption syndromes, and difficulties related to food preparation, especially among the elderly population. In this context, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), there was an increase of 60 million undernourished people in 2019 compared to 2014, highlighting the persistence of this issue. This study aimed to estimate the incidence of hospitalizations due to malnutrition in the municipality of Cascavel between 2018 and 2023, describing the patient profile in terms of gender, age group, and ethnicity, and analyzing the characteristics of these hospitalizations, such as the average length of stay and number of deaths. To achieve this, a quantitative and descriptive study was conducted based on data collected from the DATASUS platform, in the “SUS Hospital Morbidity” section, selecting malnutrition among the ICD-10 morbidity options. The results indicated that female patients, of white ethnicity, and under 1 year of age were the most affected. Over the six years analyzed, 46 cases were recorded, with only 1 death due to malnutrition. Regarding the average length of hospital stay, the highest duration was recorded in 2018, with an average of 17.8 days.

Feelings involved in the act of caring from the perspectivo of formal caregiver of the elderly

Maria Carolina Nascimento Ramos — 2025-04-12

Introduction: The demographic profile of Brazil has undergone significant changes since the 1970s, marked by an increase in the age of the population. This demographic shift has led to transformations in illness patterns and epidemiology within society. Consequently, caregivers have assumed a pivotal role in caring for dependent patients. Despite the fact that formal caregivers are compensated for their services, there is a notable absence of guidelines to facilitate their professional development within Brazil. Objective: The primary goal of this study was to identify the socio-demographic characteristics of formal caregivers and gain insights into the emotions and sentiments they experience during their professional work. Method: This study was conducted using a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach. Twenty formal caregivers from Itajubá, Minas Gerais (MG), participated in the study. The inclusion criteria stipulated that participants must be at least 18 years of age or older and have engaged in formal caregiving activities for at least six months. The exclusion criteria comprised recorded interviews that did not align with the research questions and incomplete sociodemographic characterization forms. Data analysis employed the Collective Subject Discourse method. Results: The study found that 70% of the participants were female, constituting the majority of the sample. Additionally, 70% of caregivers had between 5 and 9 years of education, and the average duration of their professional tenure exceeded six years, accounting for 65% of the total participants. The exploration of the theme "What emotions are experienced while being a formal caregiver?" yielded two central ideas: "Satisfaction and Enjoyment" and "Recognition." Conclusion: This study demonstrates that despite the challenges faced by caregivers in their professional duties, they derive satisfaction and recognition from the services they provide.

Impacts of the work environment on the mental health of nursing: Psychosomatic disorders and triggering factors

Anna Júlia Soares Faustino — 2025-04-30

Indroduction: It is notable that, when it comes to the prevalence of psychosomatic illnesses associated with work-related factors, the healthcare field is prominently affected, particularly the nursing profession. The main precursors for the diagnosis of these psychopathologies are exhaustive work shifts, excessive patient contact, and exposure to the process of death and dying. The highlighted mental illnesses include burnout syndrome, anxiety, and depression. Objective: To investigate the impacts of the work environment on the mental health of nursing professionals, addressing the most prevalent psychosomatic disorders and their triggering factors. Materials and Methods: Systematic literature review through a survey of studies published between 2019–2023 in national and international journals, focusing on the predominance of mental illnesses among nursing professionals. Results: Among the analyzed studies, most have a cross-sectional design; two are descriptive-analytical, one uses a qualitative approach, and another presents a prospective design. The publication years range from 2022 to 2024, indicating the relevance and timeliness of investigations on this topic. Conclusion: The findings highlight that the work environment for nursing professionals is characterized by high emotional demands, overload, exhaustive work shifts, and adverse conditions—factors that contribute to mental suffering and directly impact their physical health. In this context, it becomes essential to implement prevention strategies and support programs aimed at nurses' mental health, including improved working conditions, institutional policies for psychological support, and measures to promote well-being in the workplace.

Nursing staff's knowledge about caring for preterm newborns on oxygen therapy

Ranyelle Hallana Andrade da Silva — 2025-04-22

The aim of this study was to analyze the nursing team's knowledge about the use of oxygen during the hospitalization of preterm newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This is an exploratory-descriptive study with a qualitative approach, carried out with ten nursing staff members from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a maternity hospital located in a municipality in the state of Pernambuco. Data was collected through interviews and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Three thematic categories emerged: 1. potential complications related to the use of oxygen therapy; 2. nursing care in oxygen therapy; 3. continuing education and interprofessional communication in the prevention of complications arising from oxygen therapy. The nursing team's knowledge of oxygen therapy identified retinopathy of prematurity as the main complication associated with the inappropriate use of oxygen. The need for continuing education for the team was highlighted, pointing to communication as a key element for good interprofessional work and quality care for the Preterm Newborn.

The impact of Psoriatic Arthritis on sleep quality and mood swings

Ana Beatriz Dias Silva — 2025-04-27

Introduction: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and is associated with patients with cutaneous psoriatic disease (PD). Sleep quality is often impaired in patients with PsA, negatively impacting their quality of life. Objective: To evaluate sleep quality in patients diagnosed with PsA and treated at a rheumatology outpatient clinic in the metropolitan region of Belém do Pará. Methods: This is a descriptive and observational study that included 13 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of PsA. A standardized protocol was used to collect data from patient records. Results and discussion: The epidemiological profile corresponds to non-white women, between 61 and 70 years of age, from the metropolitan region of Belém. Their diagnoses were attributed more than 10 years ago, they present as the main comorbidity associated with Systemic Arterial Hypertension and use secukinumab as the main medication. The most prevalent initial clinical manifestation was joint or cutaneous, with secondary lesions appearing after 1 to 5 years, with morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes and pain between 5 and 6 on the visual scale. In addition, sleepiness was scored as normal by the Epworth sleep scale, with good sleep quality on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, presence of OSAS on the Berlin Questionnaire, and probable depression and/or anxiety on the HAD scale. Conclusions: The results highlight the influence of PsA on quality of life.

Comparison of acupuncture and low-level laser for myofascial pain: A pilot study randomized trial

Renan Leonardi de Oliveira Rigotti — 2025-04-17

Myofascial pain in Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) involves hypersensitive facial muscle trigger points, affecting quality of life. This trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture and low-level laser therapy for TMD-related pain relief. A randomized controlled trial with 14 participants (10 females, 4 males; mean age 29.5 years) divided into two groups (n=7). Group 1 received ten 20-minute acupuncture sessions every 48 hours, while Group 2 underwent low-power infrared laser therapy (790 nm, 120 mW) on the same schedule. Pain was assessed using a 0–10 Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and neuromuscular activity via bilateral electromyography (EMG) of the temporal and masseter muscles. Statistical analysis used SPSS 22.0 with Wilcoxon and paired t-tests (p<0.05). Both treatments significantly reduced subjective pain perception (VAS: Acupuncture 6.57 to 0.14; Laser 6.00 to 1.20), with no significant difference between groups. However, neither therapy significantly decreased neuromuscular activity in the temporal and masseter muscles, although acupuncture showed a trend toward reduced temporal muscle activity during clenching. Acupuncture and low-level laser therapy effectively reduced pain in patients with myofascial TMD. Despite differences in neuromuscular patterns, neither treatment significantly altered muscle activity, warranting further research to explore their underlying mechanisms.

Epidemiological aspects of interpersonal and self-harm violence in Paiçandu-PR, in the period from 2013 to 2023

Daysa Ione Braga Amadei Rodrigues — 2025-04-17

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of reports of interpersonal and self-inflicted violence in the region of Paiçandu - PR between 2013 and 2023. Methods: The quantitative and descriptive study used data from the National System of Injuries and Notifications (SINAN) to obtain epidemiological data and structure the research. Results: female adults, white race/color, age range between 19 and 44 years, complete high school were the main victims. There were 979 reported cases, of which 348 were self-inflicted injuries. Of the total violence data analyzed, 396 cases were caused by family members, specifically mother (14%) and spouse (13%), with the highest registration rate. The highest incidence of cases was in 2021 with 195 reports, corresponding to 20% of the reports in the period analyzed. Regarding the evolution of cases of violence, 928 records were blank, making it impossible to analyze the outcome of the events due to the lack of records. It is concluded that interpersonal violence and self-harm are public health problems. It is important to train health teams to correctly record notifications, since without this epidemiological data, prevention and intervention strategies for violence are compromised.

The importance of oral hygiene control in patients admitted to Intensive Care Units

Júlia Lopes de Aguiar — 2025-04-18

The present study aims to elucidate the importance of performing oral hygiene on hospitalized patients by dental surgeons and how this can directly influence their quality of life during hospitalization. The study was conducted through a narrative literature review. The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a hospital area designated for patients who require complex treatments and regular monitoring for their recovery. To maintain patient stability, a multidisciplinary team is essential, including dental surgeons. These professionals stand out for their ability to identify, control, and treat diseases in the oral cavity. Oral health is a key factor for this group, as it is directly linked to overall health, since conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis can contribute to the onset or worsening of systemic complications, such as bacterial endocarditis and ventilator-associated pneumonia. However, the oral hygiene of ICU patients is often inefficient, and the importance of dental surgeons in these environments remains underrecognized.

Pharmacotherapeutic follow-up of patients with type 2 diabetes: Application of the Dáder method in primary health care

Natália Resende Oliveira — 2025-04-19

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent chronic disease in primary healthcare (PHC) and is often associated with poor treatment adherence and unsatisfactory clinical outcomes. Objective: To assess the impact of a structured pharmacotherapeutic follow-up based on the Dáder method on the clinical indicators of patients with T2DM in Family Health Strategy (FHS) units. Methods: This was a prospective, longitudinal, and quantitative study involving 21 patients diagnosed with T2DM, assisted by a resident pharmacist in two FHS units in southern Mato Grosso, Brazil. The interventions followed the five stages of the Dáder method. Drug-related problems (DRPs), negative outcomes associated with medication (NOMs), capillary blood glucose, fasting blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin were evaluated. Results: Most DRPs were related to nonadherence (50.87%). Among the NOMs, 80% were due to lack of effectiveness. A non-significant reduction in fasting blood glucose was observed (median, 164–147 mg/dL; p=0.167), along with a significant reduction in glycated hemoglobin (median from 7.8% to 7.5%, p=0.02). A total of 81 interventions were performed, mainly focusing on treatment adherence (35.8%). Conclusion: Pharmacotherapeutic follow-up, even with a small sample size, demonstrated the potential to improve glycemic control and reduce DRPs. These findings reinforce the relevance of pharmacists’ role in PHC and in promoting health in patients with chronic diseases.

Dose-dependent hepatotoxicity of liraglutide in pregnant wistar rats

Gabriel Reis Caixeta — 2025-04-25

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible hepatotoxic effects of liraglutide, a GLP-1 analog used in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Twenty Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were used, divided into four groups (control, 0.007 mg/mL, 0.07 mg/mL and 0.7 mg/mL) and treated for 21 days (gestation). The study was submitted to and approved by CEUA/UNIPAM under protocol number 94/23. After inhalation anesthesia with isofluorane, laparatomy was performed followed by blood collection for biochemical tests, euthanasia and removal of the livers for weighing and histopathological analysis. There were no statistically significant changes (p>0.05) in the levels of the liver enzymes ALT and AST, despite the high variation in the standard deviation observed in some groups (0.07mg/mL and 0.7mg/mL) according to the ANOVA/Tukey statistical test. There was a significant reduction (p<0.05) in body weight in the 0.7 mg/mL group and in liver weight in the 0.07 mg/mL group compared to the control according to the ANOVA/Tukey statistical test. A score system was used to assess cell damage and field involvement: (-) absent, (+) slight, (++) moderate and (+++) severe. Histopathological findings included lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate, hepatocyte necrosis and intracanalicular cholestasis, both discrete and focal. The histological evaluation revealed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) between the groups according to the Kruskal-Wallis statistical test, followed by Dunn's method. It is concluded that liraglutide, even at high doses, did not demonstrate significant hepatotoxicity in pregnant rats. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and molecular investigations are recommended to confirm the safety of liraglutide use during pregnancy.

Orthognathic surgery as definitive treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: orthodontic-surgical case report

Ana Beatriz Nobre de Alencar — 2025-04-23

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a respiratory disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of partial or complete collapse of the upper airway during sleep, leading to intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation, which negatively impact quality of life. This article aims to report on a case of a young, normotensive patient with moderate sleep apnea and a Class II facial pattern associated with mandibular retrognathia. The patient underwent prior orthodontic treatment in preparation for mandibular advancement orthognathic surgery to correct both occlusion and OSAS. The chosen therapeutic approach was based on the presence of facial anatomical abnormalities contributing to OSAS. The gold-standard treatment for OSAS in the literature is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP); however, due to low adherence, alternative therapeutic approaches have been developed, including orthognathic surgery with bimaxillary advancement. Although CPAP is the first-line treatment for OSAS, orthognathic surgery has proven to be an effective alternative for patients with mandibular retrusion and sleep apnea when appropriately indicated.

Investing in the future: The critical role of prenatal care in maternal and child health

Mariana Abrahão Barreiro Alvarez — 2025-04-29

Pregnancy is a period of extreme importance in a woman's life and her family's, with prenatal care being essential for promoting maternal and fetal health. Prenatal care goes beyond mere medical check-ups; it's a continuous process of care aimed at ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby from conception to delivery, providing support and guidance through knowledge exchange, thereby facilitating this experience. The objective of this experience report is to promote awareness and education about prenatal care and reaffirm the bond between pregnant women and their families with the Basic Health Unit. According to the guidelines of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, a minimum of six prenatal visits spread across the gestational trimesters is recommended, ensuring adequate monitoring during this crucial period. These visits provide guidance on proper nutrition, healthy lifestyle practices, pregnancy care, labor, postpartum care, breastfeeding, and family planning. Additionally, various screening tests are conducted to monitor the health of the mother and fetus, including blood tests to assess hemoglobin levels, identify potential infections, and determine the mother's blood type and Rh factor. Imaging exams, such as ultrasounds, are used to monitor fetal growth and development and detect congenital anomalies.

Effects of hydrotherapy on quality of life in women with fibromyalgia: A literature review

Marcella de Carvalho Mello — 2025-04-29

Objective: The objective of this literature review is to evaluate the benefits of hydrotherapy in reducing pain and improving the quality of life of women with fibromyalgia. Methodology: A search for articles was conducted in the electronic databases PubMed, PEDro, Google Scholar, and SciELO, covering the period from 2013 to 2023 and indexed in Portuguese and English. Articles that included randomized and prospective clinical trials were selected. Results: The analyzed articles indicate that hydrotherapy, with protocols including warming up, stretching, muscle strengthening, and relaxation, offers greater benefits in reducing pain, improving functional capacity, and reducing muscle fatigue compared to exercises performed on land. Additionally, studies addressing educational programs about fibromyalgia also reported similar benefits. Conclusion: Aquatic physiotherapy offers significant benefits for women with fibromyalgia, mainly in reducing pain, improving functional capacity, and enhancing quality of life.

Perceptions of people from malaria-endemic areas about challenges and barriers to testing

Margareth Santos Zanchetta — 2025-04-23

Objective- To explore the point of view of residents in the communities of Porto Velho and neighboring communities on malaria testing, risks and related benefits. Methodology- Rapid and participatory appreciation of community needs through an ethnographic assessment to explore community beliefs/practices related to specific interventions related to the diagnosis and treatment of a given disease. Data collection took place through focus groups and individual face-to-face interviews (August 2022). Results- Participants were 21 women and 17 men, both adults and educated. All participants in the focus groups and 90% of the interviewees knew of malaria cases among family members and friends. Among the interviewees, the majority are adult men, employed/self-employed, while most of the participants in the groups are women, young people, employees or students. The findings revealed how previous endemics affected community perceptions of malaria testing. Exposure to malaria in social circles reinforced the belief of uncontrollable environmental risk. A spectrum of critical issues was revealed: widespread apathy and fear, increased awareness of malaria recurrence, perceptions of its urban sprawl, recognized importance of testing and treatment, and barriers to effective testing and treatment. Participants shared and critiqued thoughts on communities' thinking about malaria testing. Conclusion- Concern with the environment-human health requires greater political engagement in the sociocultural context of malaria. Proposed recommendations include mass education and communication, action by community agents, availability of testing technicians, and increased testing sites.

The obstetric violence, racism, and their consequences in the life of black women

Vitória Torquato Silva Miranda — 2025-04-06

Introduction: Obstetric violence is an issue that permeates maternal healthcare, and its impact is pronounced when considering the intersection with structural racism. Black women face unique and disproportionate challenges during the processes of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, due to various factors, including implicit and explicit biases, lack of access to quality care, and socio-economic inequalities. Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of racism on obstetric violence experienced by Black women. Methodology: This is an integrative review with a descriptive character of articles published in Portuguese selected from the BVS SciELO and Google Scholar databases. 16 articles were chosen through a search using the descriptors: Obstetric violence, Racism; Nursing, using the boolean operator AND as a tool for crossing the descriptors, with a review of articles published from 2019 to 2024. Results and Discussion: It has been found that obstetric violence against Black women involves episodes of physical, sexual, verbal, psychological, and institutional violence during labor, delivery, and postpartum. It also includes lack of information, racial discrimination, difficulty in accessing prenatal care, and rights violations, all contributing to the vulnerability of Black women. Conclusion: It is concluded that the impact of covert racism and obstetric violence on Black women reinforces the need for humanized care focused on women's protagonism, with inclusive practices and the fight against rights violations.

Gastric cancer mortality in Sergipe (2013-2023): A spatial and temporal analysis

Rafael Lisboa Prudente — 2025-04-13

Introduction: Deaths from gastric cancer constitute a serious public health issue in Brazil, involving high morbidity and mortality rates, especially in underserved regions. Regional disparities in access to diagnosis and treatment contribute to variations in survival rates. This study aims to analyze spatial, temporal, and epidemiological patterns of mortality due to gastric neoplasms in Sergipe between 2013 and 2023. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted using mortality data from official health databases (DATASUS). The study included deaths within the specified period and assessed variables such as age, sex, municipality of residence, education level, and time to treatment initiation, drawing comparisons with data from the literature. Results: The findings indicate significant variations in gastric cancer mortality across municipalities over the years, with noticeable changes especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Delays in diagnosis and treatment initiation were associated with higher mortality rates. Additionally, inequalities in access to specialized services were observed, highlighting the need for health policies aimed at early detection and treatment efficiency. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of addressing regional inequalities in cancer care in Sergipe. There is an urgent need to strengthen early detection programs and ensure timely access to treatment in order to reduce gastric cancer mortality. Future research should focus on evaluating public policies and their effectiveness in mitigating disparities in cancer outcomes.

Experiences of postpartum women during the Covid-19 pandemic

Érica Sabrina Macari Weber — 2025-04-13

The gestational period is widely known for bringing about numerous changes in a woman's body, both physical and emotional. These transformations, often accompanied by fear, anguish and anxiety, can be intensified or alleviated by the quality of the relationship between the mother, the baby and the support network, which play an essential role in this process. This research, with a qualitative approach, was conducted throughout 2023, through semi-structured interviews to better direct the theme, and focused on a group of women who experienced the gestational period or the postpartum period during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023). The objective was to explore the feelings of postpartum women in the postpartum period, considering the challenges imposed by the need for social isolation to control the virus, in addition to discussing the difficulties they faced in this context. The study in question identified that as the pregnancy progressed and prenatal consultations became more frequent, the greatest fear was being without adequate health services for the necessary care such as exams and vaccinations for the new being.

The role of comorbidities (hypertension, obesity and diabetes) in the expression of the ACE 2 receptor in COVID-19: A systematic review

Letícia Romeira Belchior — 2025-04-02

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, relationships between comorbidities and the severity of COVID-19 were highlighted, mainly related to the ACE 2 receptor, present in several organs and responsible for regulating the renin-angiotensin system. The entry of SARS-CoV-2 into cells deregulates ACE 2, which increases inflammation and clotting, worsening the infection. Comorbidities such as hypertension, obesity and diabetes increase the risk of complications, making it essential to understand how these conditions influence the progression of the disease. The objective was to carry out research on the role of comorbidities (hypertension, obesity and diabetes) in the expression of the ACE 2 receptor in COVID-19. A systematic review of the literature was carried out that followed the PRISMA guidelines and analyzed studies published between 2017 and 2022 in the Web of Science, Scielo and PubMed databases. After rigorous screening, 15 articles were selected for the final review. The results showed that obesity is associated with a worse prognosis in COVID-19, with reduced expression of ACE 2 in adipose tissue after weight loss, reducing susceptibility to the virus. In the case of diabetes, patients with inadequate glycemic control and cardiovascular complications were at higher risk of complications. In relation to hypertension, the dysregulation of angiotensin II by SARS-CoV-2 contributes to lung damage, worsening the disease. In relation to hypertension, the dysregulation of angiotensin II by SARS-CoV-2 contributes to lung damage, worsening the disease. The study concludes that increased expression of ACE2 in patients with these comorbidities worsens the infection. Weight loss can improve ACE 2 receptor regulation. However, more studies are needed, especially in the elderly, to assess the impact of these conditions on COVID-19 mortality.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: From genetic correlation to candidate genes

Dary Medeiros Dantas — 2025-04-04

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is part of the Global Developmental Disorders (GDD) group, which includes other neurodevelopmental disorders in addition to ASD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in recent years there has been an increase in the prevalence of ASD, with a probable growth in the identification of genes associated with the syndrome. This review aims to update information from gene association studies and verify the association with ASD and its prevalence, conducted following the rigor and recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) tool. Five databases were used, obtaining a survey of 4,404 articles, and 14 studies were selected which also highlighted the influence of 56 possible candidate genes associated with the prevalence of ASD. The SHANK3 gene was found to be the most associated with the increased prevalence of ASD, followed by the SCN2A and PARD3 genes. In conclusion, the candidate genes analyzed are associated with characteristics of the syndrome, with the SHANK3 gene being the most responsible for the increased prevalence in gene association studies. However, in-depth studies need to be conducted in order to bring robustness to this field of research.

Continuing education - an essential component for excellence in emergency nursing care: Narrative review

Maikeliny Vaz de Oliveira — 2025-04-04

Continuing education is an essential component for emergency healthcare staff, as it allows them to keep their skills and knowledge up to date, improving the quality of care and patient safety. In a dynamic and unpredictable work environment, emergency healthcare staff need to be prepared to deal with complex and urgent situations, where rapid and accurate decision-making is crucial. In addition, continuing education is essential to ensure that healthcare staff are up to date on the latest guidelines and care protocols, as well as new technologies and equipment available. This is especially important in emergency services, where healthcare staff need to be prepared to deal with a wide range of medical conditions and injuries. The purpose of this article is to present a literature review on the importance of continuing education for emergency healthcare staff and to present strategies for implementing effective continuing education programs. In addition, the article also addresses the challenges and obstacles that emergency healthcare staff may face when attempting to implement continuing education programs, and presents practical solutions to overcome these challenges.

Healing potential of the ointment based on the extract of the bark of Anacardium Occidentale L. containing solic lipid nanoparticles: A preclinical trial

Emilly Rayane Sátiro Carneiro — 2025-04-19

The treatment of lesions represents a significant challenge for the public health system due to its high cost. Therefore, the present study evaluated the healing potential of two herbal formulations, one based on the hydroalcoholic extract of the inner bark of Anacardium occidentale (A.O), and the other containing the extract associated with solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN). Previous scientific studies have already demonstrated the pharmacological activities of A.O, such as healing, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial action. The hydroalcoholic extract obtained through the maceration process and continuous and static agitation was used. The nanoparticles were obtained through hot fusion and high shear homogenization, resulting in a microemulsion. The excisional lesions were performed with a 6 mm metal punch. Twenty animals were used in the experiment, distributed equally into four groups: Anacardium Occidentale Treatment Group (GT-AO), Anacardium Occidentale Treatment Group with Nanoparticles (GT-AON), Positive Control Group (GCP) using Fibrinase® as a parameter, and Negative Control Group (GCN). The developed formulation was tested in Swiss mice; preclinical analysis showed a significant acceleration in the healing process in GT-AON compared to GCP. The presentation of morphometric and macroscopic data indicate the comparison between all groups and their healing stages. The results corroborate studies that indicate the penetration of nanoparticles into the deepest layers and confirm that the association of the hydroalcoholic extract of A.O. with NLS technology enhances healing, suggesting a promising alternative for wound treatment.

Vertical increase of atrophic maxillary alveolar rim: A bibliographical review

Daniel Falleiro Simundi — 2025-04-06

Objective: The present literature review aimed to evaluate the different surgical techniques for vertical ridge augmentation in relation to the predictability of bone gain, the risk of complications, the success or failure rate of installed implants, as well as their survival rate. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted, of a qualitative nature, with little systematization, in which data collection was carried out in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) databases. Results: After analyzing the articles included in the review, the results of the studies showed that there are countless techniques able to produce a significant gain in thickness and height of the alveolar edge in jaws. Conclusion: despite the evolution of countless surgical techniques, the predictability of the vertical increase of the alveolar edge remains a challenge.

Drug use among university students: Consumption profile and association with parental educational level

Alba Saa Casal — 2025-04-08

Drugs of abuse can alter mood, perception, and individual functioning, leading to dependence and withdrawal syndrome. In Spain, illegal drug use remains a public health issue, especially among young people. Socioeconomic factors, such as parental educational level, may influence consumption behaviors. To analyze drug consumption among university students and its relationship with age, sex, and parental educational level. Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted among university students. A health survey was applied to assess substance use and sociodemographic data. IBM-SPSS-25 was used for statistical analysis. A total of 498 students were included (median age: 19 years; 68.7% female). 23% reported drug use, with marijuana being the most frequently consumed substance (54.5%). Significant differences were found in marijuana and hashish consumption by sex, with higher prevalence among males (p<0.001). Cocaine use was more frequent among older students (p=0.003). Additionally, marijuana consumption was associated with higher maternal educational level, while cocaine and benzodiazepine use were more prevalent among students with parents of lower educational levels (p<0.05). Drug consumption among university students varies according to sex, age, and parental educational level. It is essential to design targeted preventive strategies.

The Evolution of Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) Management: From Hormonal Manipulation to Targeted Inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) Pathway

Lucas Bissacotti Brandão — 2025-04-18

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare and progressive lung disease predominantly affecting women, has undergone a significant transformation in its therapeutic management over recent decades. This review aims to critically analyze this evolution, contrasting historical hormonal manipulation strategies with modern therapy targeted at inhibiting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, elucidating the transition to the current treatment standard. Conducted as a narrative review of scientific literature, the analysis demonstrates that hormonal approaches, despite an initial biological rationale involving receptors and estrogenic interactions, did not show robust efficacy in modifying the progression of lung disease. The turning point occurred with the identification of the mTOR pathway as central to LAM pathogenesis, driven by TSC gene mutations. This discovery led to the development and clinical validation of mTOR inhibitors, such as sirolimus and everolimus, which have been shown to stabilize lung function and improve patient outcomes. Currently, mTOR inhibitors constitute the therapeutic gold standard, representing a milestone in precision medicine for LAM treatment. While consolidating the evidence supporting this paradigm shift, this review also highlights persistent challenges and directions for future research, including treatment optimization, the identification of new biomarkers, and the search for complementary therapies.

The practice of regular physical exercise in the context of self-image identification in larger persons is relevant, but is not associated with a high self-image

Carlos Alberto Castro Monteiro — 2025-04-26

Body image is characterized by cognitive understanding, which combines with various reflections on body aesthetics. With this characterization, the objective of this study is to identify the self-image of elderly subjects who practice physical exercise. The study with a sample of 84 elderly people, 68 women and 16 men aged between 60 and 79 years (CI: 95%, p<0.05) frequent the Open University of Third Age (UATI-USP) and Open University of Terceira Age (UATI-FESC) used Steglich's self-image and self-esteem questionnaire, in which only answers referring to self-image were considered, with 38 questions, relating to organic aspects: 1, 2, 4, 6, 22, 71; social aspects: 9, 11, 13, 25, 37, 38, 51; intellectual aspects: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 32, 56, 57, 65; and, emotional aspects: 26, 27, 36, 55, 58, 59, 61, 62, 63, 69, 70, 72, 73, 74, 75. The score for self-image is from 37 to 185 points, from 37 to 147 points low self-image and 148 to 185 points high self-image. Approved by the Ethics and Research Committee (CEP) with opinion N* 3,313,623, after acceptance of the subjects with the ICF, data collection began. Of the 84 subjects, 19.05% were male and 80.95% were female. The result identified low self-image in 66.67% of the subjects. The calculation of self-image for the four aspects of the questionnaire scored 19.33 for the organic aspect, 25.21 for the social aspect, 34.28 for the intellectual aspect and 54.79 for the emotional aspect, resulting in 133.63 as an overall average.

Lumbar disc herniation: review of minimally invasive surgical approaches

Patrick Ramos Nunes — 2025-04-12

A herniated lumbar disc is a common condition that can cause intense pain and limit mobility of patients. Surgical treatment becomes a fundamental option when approaching conservative failed. In recent years, minimally invasive (MI) surgical techniques have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional open surgery, offering advantages such as shorter recovery time, reduced post-operative pain and lower rates of complications. The objective of this article is to carry out a review of the minimally invasive surgical approaches for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation, comparing the effectiveness, recovery time and complications associated with these techniques. The review analyzes the effectiveness of these techniques in comparison with traditional open discectomy, focusing on clinical results, recovery time and complications. Also discussed, recent technological advances have been discussed, such as the use of computerized navigation and endoscopy, which emphasize the precision and safety of these procedures. A critical analysis of two reviewed studies reveals that minimally invasive approaches present promising results, but also present limitations, such as the need for greater surgical expertise and the lack of consensus regarding the selection of the ideal method for different types of hernia. The article concluded that, despite the obvious advantages, more studies are necessary to consolidate the indications and optimize the treatment protocols to guarantee better results in the long term.

Treatment of a thyroglossal duct fistula using the modified Sistrunk technique: A case report

Vinícius Franzão Ganzaroli — 2025-04-24

During the intrauterine phase, embryological structures such as the branchial arches develop, resulting in structures like the pharyngeal diverticulum, which will later give rise to the thyroid gland and the thyroglossal duct, both vital for human development. However, malformation of these structures can give rise to cysts and fistulas along the thyroglossal duct, resulting in difficulties in moving the tongue, dysphagia, or dysarthria. To treat this pathology, surgical intervention is required, based on the Sistrunk technique, which aims to remove the cysts and fistulas associated with the thyroglossal duct, as well as all its fistular epithelium or cystic capsule, with a safety margin to avoid a recurrent process. This manuscript aims to report a clinical case of a male patient, aged 1 year and 8 months, who had a fistula arising from the thyroglossal duct on the dorsum of the tongue without a path of continuity, resulting in a cleft tongue. The patient was seen at the “Santa Casa de Misericórdia” hospital in Araçatuba City for surgical removal of the lesion associated with the tongue with a safety margin, and it was possible to completely resolve the case, confirmed by the three-month follow-up of the patient, who currently has a completely healed surgical site and control of tongue movement, speech and swallowing. We, therefore, conclude that the more conservative surgical approach, using the modified Sistrunk technique, proved to be effective in this case, promoting the return of function and complete healing of the wound without any recurrences or intercurrences.

Assessment of the incidence of pain in the immediate postpartum period: An observational study in the maternity ward of the Hospital Universitário do Oeste do Paraná

Bianca de Jesus Ribeiro — 2025-04-17

The immediate postpartum period, which occurs up to the 10th day after delivery, is marked by the gradual return of the woman's body to its pre-pregnancy state. Many women experience pain in the lower back, abdominal, perineal, and breast regions, associated with both vaginal and cesarean delivery. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of pain in the immediate postpartum period, identifying the main pain sites reported by postpartum women and investigating the relationship between these discomforts and factors such as type of delivery, breastfeeding, and musculoskeletal pain. This is a cross-sectional observational study, carried out with women in the immediate postpartum period, from September to October 2024. A semi-structured questionnaire was used with questions about the participants' personal and obstetric data, in addition to questions related to the presence of pain. The study included 50 women, aged 17 to 41, 38% of whom were primigravidae and 62% primiparous. The majority (54%) underwent cesarean section. The most frequent pain occurred during the cesarean incision, followed by abdominal and perineal pain. For 55.8% of the women, the pain was moderate. Movement was indicated as an aggravating factor, while rest alleviated the symptoms. The study revealed that pain in the immediate postpartum period is common and affects quality of life, especially after a cesarean section. The importance of greater guidance during prenatal care regarding postpartum discomfort is highlighted. Techniques such as kinesiotherapy and TENS have proven effective in relieving pain and in functional recovery.

Multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of the sequela of anterior dentoalveolar trauma: Case report

Marlene Ribeiro de Oliveira — 2025-04-17

Dental trauma in childhood results in physical damage to the tooth and the child, causing functional, aesthetic and psychological problems. According to the literature, trauma to deciduous teeth is common and usually occurs for the first time in children who are beginning to walk. Therefore, it is possible that new traumatic injuries may occur during the child's growth and development, which may affect the deciduous tooth and the germ of the permanent tooth in formation, as there is a close anatomical relationship between the apices of the roots of the deciduous teeth and the germ of the permanent tooth. The aim of this study is to present a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitate children with sequelae of anterior dentoalveolar trauma. Female patient, nine years old, with early loss of tooth 61 due to trauma in early childhood, leading to root dilaceration and alteration in the eruption trajectory of tooth 21. Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) was planned, followed by prosthetic rehabilitation with a Nance prosthesis for functional and aesthetic rehabilitation. The Nance prosthesis was recommended for satisfactory rehabilitation, even if only temporarily, until the patient's growth is complete, so that a dental implant can be placed as an alternative to definitive treatment. In this study, the case reported required a multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of the sequelae of anterior dentoalveolar trauma, with orthopedic intervention using a Haas-type expansion device and a Nance prosthesis. The patient is being monitored and will be rehabilitated through a dental implant after surgical removal of the tooth.

Epidemiological profile of glaucoma patients in Brazil: A systematic review

Eduardo Rodrigues Mattos de Castro — 2025-04-18

Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure affecting retinal ganglion cells and is considered the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. This study aims to outline an epidemiological profile of glaucoma patients, providing a detailed analysis of the prevalence and demographic characteristics of this condition in the Brazilian context. This is a systematic literature review, a survey that gathers and evaluates existing studies and findings to provide an updated overview, identifying patterns, trends, and gaps. It was conducted in the electronic databases PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar, and VHL, from May to July 2024, using keywords related to the topic. It includes original articles published between July 2014 and July 2024, in Portuguese and English, which will be verified through peer review. As a public health problem, the epidemiological profile highlights the importance of strategies to promote eye health, early detection, and preventive interventions. These actions are essential to prevent or worsen conditions, especially for the most vulnerable groups. Therefore, it is concluded that by outlining the epidemiological profile of glaucoma patients, it is possible to determine which individuals are affected by this comorbidity and for what reason or progression, in order to implement health promotion and prevention measures.

Relationship between fear memory and gut microbiota colonization

Iara Silva Leite de Faria — 2025-04-19

This study investigated the relationship between exposure to Mozart’s Sonata K448 and the gut microbiota of aging mice, focusing on memory. Music has been used therapeutically to promote cognitive improvements, and the gut microbiota plays a key role in the communication between the nervous system and the gut, influencing cognitive disorders. The aim was to analyze the effects of exposure to Mozart’s Sonata K448 on the gut microbiota of mice. The mice were divided into three groups: G1 (Mozart), G2 (Environment), and G3 (Control). Group G1 was exposed to the music from the fetal stage for 10 hours until the fecal collection. The fecal samples were processed in selective (MacConkey) and non-selective (Nutrient) media, and bacterial colonies were counted. Before the memory test, the control group showed no bacterial growth, while the Mozart group showed a significant increase compared to the Environment group. After the memory test, the control and Mozart groups showed an increase in colony count, while the Environment group showed a sharp decrease. No growth of enterobacteria was observed in the control group, and both the Mozart and Environment groups showed a reduction in colony number after the memory test. These results indicate that exposure to Mozart’s Sonata K448 has a significant impact on the bacterial colony count and diversity in the feces of mice, suggesting an interaction between music and the gut microbiota that may influence cognitive functions.

Relationship between low IDH and cases of rotavirus diarrhea in Brazil

Juliana Santos Gregório — 2025-04-20

Introduction: Rotavirus is one of the main causes of acute diarrheal diseases (AD), with a major impact on infant mortality. As it is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, it facilitates its spread, especially when low socioeconomic levels are involved. Despite being a self-limiting disease, patients can progress to severe forms and have an unfavorable outcome, raising the alarm for greater epidemiological surveillance. Objective: To assess the relationship between socioeconomic status through the HDI and the incidence of confirmed rotavirus cases. Methods: This is an observational, ecological, analytical study carried out using statistical analysis of the Federative Units (FUs) of Brazil between 2018 and 2022. Results: Observing the relationship between rotavirus incidence and HDI, the statistical correlation is practically null, indicating no association between human development and the incidence of the disease. This result suggests that the MHDI of Brazilian states is not a determining factor in the distribution of the incidence of confirmed rotavirus cases with diarrhea. Discussion: This study shows that the low level of notification of rotavirus can lead to difficulties in obtaining reliable data on the prevalence of this disease. In addition, the way the virus is transmitted and the emergence of new strains reinforce the importance of further studies on this subject. Conclusion: Cases of rotavirus have become more clinically and epidemiologically relevant, reinforcing the importance of control and screening for the earliest possible diagnosis and treatment, avoiding possible complications. It is also necessary to reinforce notification measures so that more studies can be carried out.

Flowers and Leafs as Natural Acid-Base Indicators: A sustainable alternative approach for teaching Chemistry and Biology

Tiago Maretti Gonçalves — 2025-04-10

The identification of acidic and basic substances is a fundamental concept that has gained prominence as a didactic alternative for teaching Chemistry and Biology. This study proposes the use of aqueous extracts from the flowers of White Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.), Glory Tree (Tibouchina granulosa (Desr.) Cogn.), Blue Trumpet Vine (Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb.), and leaves such as Red Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and Bloodleaf (Iresine herbstii) as natural pH indicators, providing an accessible and sustainable experimental approach while facilitating and enhancing Chemistry and Biology education for high school students. The experimental proposal of this study aligns with the National Curricular Parameters (PCN+), by encouraging content contextualization and interdisciplinary interaction, as well as promoting the use of experimental classes to advance scientific knowledge. The main results indicate that the aqueous extracts used performed excellently as acid-base indicators, making them a strongly recommended and viable alternative for teaching Chemistry and Biology. Furthermore, the proposed experimental activity enhances students’ understanding of pH concepts and the properties of acids and bases, while also fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry. This proposal is innovative as it employs, for the first time in educational literature in Brazil, aqueous extracts from the flowers of Blue Trumpet Vine (Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb.) and the leaves of Red Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and Bloodleaf (Iresine herbstii) as natural pH indicators. This approach aims to contribute to science education by aligning with socioconstructivist principles, providing a hands-on learning experience based on experimentation.

Innovation in Chemistry teaching: Optimized method for saponification index

Gabriel de Freitas Lopes — 2025-04-15

The Saponification Index (SI) determines the amount (mg) of base required to saponify 1g of oil. It is related to the size of the fatty acids in the oil and is one of the ways to assess its quality and identity. For soybean oil, the SI should be between 189 and 195 mg KOH/g. Optimizing the method for determining the SI is crucial for chemistry education, both in technical courses and higher education, as it should utilize practical analytical methods to integrate practical and theoretical knowledge in order to enhance learning. This work aimed to optimize the method for determining the SI by adjusting variables such as reaction time, preparation of the KOH solution with diluted alcohol, comparing the execution of the blank sample subjected to the standard process and just through titration of the solution, and reducing equipment based on existing methods in the literature, for application in experimental classes of higher education courses. Regarding the use of the 4% KOH solution with diluted alcohol, the maximum possible dilution of alcohol was 80%. It was possible to reduce the time to 30 minutes at a temperature of 65 ± 2ºC in a water bath, without the need for condensers. As a result of the research conducted after the practical class, 66.6% of the students found the method viable and it provided an understanding of the topic. It can be concluded that the method for determining the SI can be optimized without compromising the reliability of the results, being effective, with results for soybean oil within legal standards, and received positive evaluations and feedback from the students.

A look at teaching skills: Challenges and complexities in Costa Rican education

Tatiana Díaz Romero — 2025-04-10

Education is a constantly evolving social process; those engaged in teaching face challenges that go beyond the pedagogical realm. In this context, educational work is influenced by the synergies of an educational system while also being impacted by external factors that interact with internal elements, exacerbating imbalances and disrupting the smooth development of the classroom environment intended for student learning. This article aims to present a reflection on the complexities of the Costa Rican educational system that overload the teaching staff and demonstrate their resistance to an often-oppressive system. Concrete experiences and a critical analysis of Costa Rican education enrich this reflection. Therefore, the article addresses various situations that arise in the educational environment, revealing part of the reality experienced by those of us immersed in the system as we strive to deliver quality teaching that aligns with students' needs and society's demands.

Understanding life paths (re)viewed by elderly people in their late phases of life: an achievement

Elmar Silva de Abreu — 2025-04-05

This work aims to: Understand, according to their perceptions, aspects of the life projects of elderly people, which would be reaffirmed or, if possible, re-edited by them. This qualitative research brings is based on the narratives of six elderly people, aged between 63 and 90 years, three males and three females, facing the following question: "If you had the possibility to live again the time you lived until now, what would you do differently and what would you do the same way? Tell us about these paths.” Lewin's topological psychology provided support for the method of analysis of the aforementioned work by enabling the representations of these vital spaces described by the participants, as well as Erikson's theory. From the analysis, the following dimensions emerged: socioeconomic-educational condition; religiosity/spirituality; work/profession; family; relationship networks; life project; generativity; integrity and transgenicity. Such dimensions reflect peculiar dynamics of n the locomotion in their spaces, bringing taking them to a balance of what they had already been experienced as well as what they are experiencing in view of their visions of the future. Spirituality was outstanding in their speeches, revealing an unmistakable confidence, when referring to God in their paths. Integrity, an Eriksonian root dimension, also proved to be aligned in the perceptions of their paths, as they very often stated: “I would do everything the same way again”. We understand that there is a strong meaning for each journey narrated: an achievement.

Challenges and contradictions of environmental governance in permanent conservation areas of the Araguaia River, in Araguatins (TO), Brazil

Edinam Ferreira de Azevedo — 2025-04-25

The increasing irregular occupation of riverbanks in urban areas has exacerbated conflicts between territorial expansion and environmental conservation, especially in small municipalities. In Brazil, the enactment of Law No. 14.285/2021, by relaxing the parameters for the definition of urban Permanent Preservation Areas (PPAs), transferred the responsibility for this regulation to the municipalities, raising concerns about their institutional capacity for implementation. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the socio-environmental impacts of irregular constructions along the banks of the Araguaia River, in the municipality of Araguatins, State of Tocantins (TO), Brazil, in light of the provisions of the new legislation. The research, with a qualitative and descriptive approach, was based on documentary analysis, georeferenced field observation and discursive textual analysis. The results reveal the existence of recent constructions on the river bed without environmental licenses, as well as the consolidation of a social imaginary that tends to normalize the irregular occupation of the riparian zones. It was also observed that the absence of updated master plans and weak municipal oversight compromises environmental governance and the integrity of riparian ecosystems. This research contributes to the debate on urban planning and sustainability by highlighting the need for coordinated efforts between legal regulation, environmental planning and social participation in the management of vulnerable territories.

A new approach to environmental auditing: Animal Protection Auditing as a tool for mitigation after socio-environmental disasters

Graziela Virgínia Tolesano-Pascoli — 2025-04-27

Independent (external) audits are a support tool for shareholders, investors and regulatory bodies. Its scope has expanded with the application of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) concepts. Legal tools for holding companies accountable under the Polluter Pays Principle are strengthening and generating demand for independent audits. This article aims to present and justify the creation of a new branch in environmental auditing, highlighting its relevance, theoretical foundation, applicability, and contributions to enhancing environmental assessment and management. In Brazil, tailing dam failures resulted in large-scale socio-environmental and economic impacts, leading to legislative responses to minimize impacts and prevent new emergencies. In 2019, the Public Prosecutor's Office of Minas Gerais worked with environmental agencies to hold the responsible mining company accountable, signing a Term of Covenant (TC Fauna) to ensure the welfare of animals affected by environmental disasters, with the intervenience of an external technical audit to monitor the established commitments. Animal Protection Audit is integrated with the Environmental Audit by assessing compliance with legal guidelines, techniques and good environmental management practices, while acting to mitigate impacts on the health and welfare of wildlife and domestic animals.

Application of the Scale of Indicators of Suffering at Work and the perception of psychosocial risk factors by Occupational Safety Technicians

Alessandro Simões Marinho — 2025-04-03

Objective: This article aimed to present the results of the application of the Occupational Distress Indicators Scale to Occupational Safety Technicians working in Brazil. Method: In this study, for data collection and quantitative analysis, the Occupational Distress Indicators Scale (EIST) was applied to 78 Occupational Safety Technicians, with 28 questions divided into 3 factors: meaning at work, mental exhaustion and recognition at work, a scale derived from the Protocol for the Assessment of Psychosocial Risks at Work. The Scale was formatted in the Google Forms tool and distributed to professionals from different regions of Brazil. Results: with the collection and analysis of the data, the results of the application of the Scale indicated mental exhaustion as the psychosocial risk factor with the greatest potential for suffering at work, with most of the items falling within the medium and borderline risk potential. In the final considerations, the perception of psychosocial risk factors as potential causes of suffering at work and a need for more scientific productions in the area of health and safety at work for a better mapping of the mental health of professionals working in the country were highlighted.

Identifying the influence of the order of presentation of items in closed questions in surveys with parallel testing, survey experiment and split-half

Karl Henkel — 2025-04-13

This article aims to describe how the order of presentation of items in nominal scales influences decision making at the time of choice. By applying a survey and collecting data through a questionnaire self-completed by 800 students in public schools, a database was created. To identify the order and primacy and recency effect was applied a specific questionnaire with inverse sequential allocation of items in the same sample group. To identify the order and primacy and recency effect was applied a specific questionnaire in an parallel test with inverse sequential allocation of items in the same sample group. In order to measure decision-making under different circumstances, a questionnaire with random ordering of items was applied to an experimental group. To measure the influence of order on dichotomous scales, a presentation in standard mode and another in reverse mode was applied to an experimental group using the split half method. The results show that there is a tendency to choose the first items presented or the primacy effect. However, the choice of items is a combination of several influences, such as question and item content, psycholinguistic aspects of the items, specific framing, interval of the survey application in relation to parallel test, type of scale such as dichotomous or polyatomic, etc., which makes it difficult to identify clearly the influence of order or primacy or recency effect.

The influence of sponsor credibility on the attitudes and intentions of street race participants

Luiz Silva dos Santos — 2025-04-11

Companies invest a large amount of money in sponsorship. The association between a sponsor and a sporting event is considered a very effective marketing strategy. One aspect that influences consumer response to sponsorship is the credibility of the sponsor. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of sponsor credibility on consumer attitudes and intentions. Four hundred and seventy-four participants of two street race events were interviewed. Data were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling. The event organizer, a variable not fully explored in the literature, was also addressed. The perception of sponsor credibility had a positive influence on consumer attitudes toward the event organizer, the sponsor and the event. The sponsor's credibility also positively affected the consumer's intention to purchase the sponsor's products and the word-of-mouth intention. These results confirm the importance of sponsor credibility in order to achieve favorable consumer behavior. The analysis of the role of the event organizer in the success of sponsorship introduces a new element to the study of sporting events.

Bioenergy production from residual sludge in microbial fuel cells

Andrea Pantusin — 2025-04-08

Inadequate sludge management in oxidation ponds leads to the accumulation of organic matter and pollutants, posing an environmental challenge. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer an innovative solution for bioenergy production and wastewater treatment. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effect of bioenergy production from residual sludge using MFCs through a descriptive analysis of existing scientific literature. The results indicate that single-chamber MFCs achieve up to 2400 mW/m², surpassing double- and triple-chamber systems due to lower internal resistance. Alkaline pretreatment and sludge fermentation increase voltage up to 0.89 V with modified graphite electrodes. A C/N ratio and electrical conductivity above 1700 µS/cm enhance stability and energy efficiency, especially in sludge rich in organic matter. These findings demonstrate that MFCs are a sustainable alternative for residual sludge management, reducing environmental impact and optimizing energy efficiency in wastewater treatment.

Application of neural networks in the steel industry

José de Jesús Calderón-Sánchez — 2025-04-30

The objective of this article is to present a case study of applied research on the implementation of deep neural networks in the rolling process of a steel mill. The study is developed within the context of Industry 4.0 and is based on the Lean Six Sigma methodology to address a real-life problem related to defects in products derived from the rolling process. The methodology includes the application of various quality tools to identify the root cause and propose methods that offer an innovative solution. Through the design, training, and evaluation of a multi-layer neural network, an improvement in the classification of conforming (prime) and non-conforming (scrap) products was achieved, reaching an efficiency close to 85%. The study demonstrates how artificial intelligence can be a viable solution for complex industrial processes involving multiple variables, providing significant improvements in quality, efficiency, and decision-making.

Floating islands as phytoremediation for domestic wastewater from the oxidation lagoon in Manabí - Bolívar

Angélica Fallain — 2025-04-19

The main objective of this research was to evaluate the removal efficiency of solids in domestic wastewater from the Bolívar canton using floating islands with three plant species: Dracaena trifasciata, Dracaena sanderiana, and Philodendron cutting. To analyze the potential of each species, phytoremediation treatments were carried out with a hydraulic retention time of 96 hours. The physicochemical analysis of the samples included pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS). The results revealed that phytoremediation achieved the highest efficiency in turbidity removal, with percentages reaching up to 99%. In contrast, Dracaena trifasciata achieved a removal rate of 75%. These findings highlight the potential of floating islands as an effective and sustainable solution for the treatment of domestic wastewater, varying according to the species used.

Challenges of urbanization in areas susceptible to flooding: Case study in Residencial Lindalma Soares, Teresina - PI

Sérgio Idelano Dantas — 2025-04-24

This article aims to analyze the socio-environmental challenges of urbanization in high-risk areas, based on the case study of Residencial Lindalma Soares, which is located in an area susceptible to flooding in the Parque Brasil neighborhood, in the municipality of Teresina, State of Piauí (PI), Brasil. The irregular occupation present in the research area, which began in 2019, occurred without adequate urban planning in accordance with the land use and occupation order, resulting in precarious constructions and increased vulnerability of the population residing in the neighborhood. The methodology included a survey of cartographic data, temporal images from Google Earth and analysis in QGIS. The results highlight the lack of basic infrastructure, the risks of natural disasters, such as floods and landslides, and the difficulties faced by the community due to socioeconomic and environmental precariousness. The study concludes that integrated actions between the public authorities and civil society are necessary to mitigate risks and promote sustainable urban development.