Nutrology and type 2 diabetes: Nutrient pathophysiology and the transition from health to disease

From a Nutrology point of view, type 2 diabetes is a multi-factorial form of clinical “malnutrition” resulting from the intake of an imbalanced diet in combination with adverse environmental conditions and in the presence of predisposing genetic factors. In this review article, we present evidence of a close association between clinical obesity in a specific genetic background as the pillars of the process underlying the development of type 2 diabetes. We review the basics of the energy balance and the role of fat storage and body distribution in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. We describe some molecular aspects of nutrients under normal physiology and during the metabolic and hormonal abnormalities that accompany type 2 diabetes. We conclude with a brief discussion of the principles behind popular dietary recommendations aimed at preventing the full development of diabetes mellitus and its complications

Nafion membrane channel structure studied by small-angle X-ray scattering and Monte Carlo simulations

The structure of Nafion 117 membranes was studied through SAXS experiments and 2D pattern simulations. Measurements were taken for different moisture conditions by synchrotron radiation, and for different temperatures through X-ray tube irradiation. The experimental profiles were fitted through simulations based on a new structural model including: the amorphous polymer matrix, polymer crystallites, and inverse core-shell type channels conformed by water cylinders and sulfonic chains. The geometrical parameters intervening in the simulation of the SAXS patterns were optimized for each experimental condition. This approach allowed the proper description of the experimental SAXS profiles for the various moisture conditions studied. In addition, a recent lamelar model was also included in the assessments, and the corresponding performances were discussed.Fil: Fernandez Bordin, Santiago Pablo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola; ArgentinaFil: Andrada, Heber Eduardo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola; ArgentinaFil: Carreras, Alejo Cristian. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola; ArgentinaFil: Castellano, Gustavo Eugenio. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola; ArgentinaFil: Oliveira, Rafael Gustavo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas. Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba; ArgentinaFil: Galván Josa, Víctor Martín. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Física Enrique Gaviola; Argentin

CROHN'S DISEASE AND GASTROINTESTINAL REPERCUSSIONS: A DETAILED STUDY OF COMORBIDITIES AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by transmural and segmental inflammation that can involve any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus. This pathology presents a wide range of clinical manifestations, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fistulas, strictures and even extraintestinal complications. The complexity of Crohn's disease lies not only in its varied clinical presentation, but also in its comorbidities and clinical implications, which can significantly affect patients' quality of life and require multifaceted therapeutic approaches. Objective: To identify and synthesize the evidence available in the scientific literature over the last 10 years on the comorbidities and clinical implications of Crohn's Disease, in order to provide a comprehensive and updated view of this aspect of gastrointestinal pathology. Methodology: The systematic review was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were used to identify relevant studies published in the last 10 years. The descriptors used were "Crohn's disease", "gastrointestinal manifestations", "comorbidities", "clinical implications" and "systematic review". The inclusion criteria involved studies that specifically investigated the comorbidities and clinical implications of Crohn's Disease, with results available in English, Spanish or Portuguese. Exclusion criteria included duplicate studies, case reports and studies with small samples or less robust methods. Results: Analysis of the selected studies revealed a wide variety of comorbidities associated with Crohn's disease, including arthritis, dermatitis, uveitis, osteoporosis and liver disorders. Furthermore, the significant clinical implications of Crohn's disease were highlighted, such as increased risk of hospitalizations, need for intestinal surgeries and impact on patients' quality of life. Conclusion: Crohn's disease presents a clinical complexity that goes beyond intestinal manifestations, with a series of comorbidities and clinical implications that require an integrated and multidisciplinary approach in its management. This review highlights the importance of understanding these aspects to improve the care and quality of life of patients with this chronic gastrointestinal condition.Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by transmural and segmental inflammation that can involve any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus. This pathology presents a wide range of clinical manifestations, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fistulas, strictures and even extraintestinal complications. The complexity of Crohn's disease lies not only in its varied clinical presentation, but also in its comorbidities and clinical implications, which can significantly affect patients' quality of life and require multifaceted therapeutic approaches. Objective: To identify and synthesize the evidence available in the scientific literature over the last 10 years on the comorbidities and clinical implications of Crohn's Disease, in order to provide a comprehensive and updated view of this aspect of gastrointestinal pathology. Methodology: The systematic review was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were used to identify relevant studies published in the last 10 years. The descriptors used were "Crohn's disease", "gastrointestinal manifestations", "comorbidities", "clinical implications" and "systematic review". The inclusion criteria involved studies that specifically investigated the comorbidities and clinical implications of Crohn's Disease, with results available in English, Spanish or Portuguese. Exclusion criteria included duplicate studies, case reports and studies with small samples or less robust methods. Results: Analysis of the selected studies revealed a wide variety of comorbidities associated with Crohn's disease, including arthritis, dermatitis, uveitis, osteoporosis and liver disorders. Furthermore, the significant clinical implications of Crohn's disease were highlighted, such as increased risk of hospitalizations, need for intestinal surgeries and impact on patients' quality of life. Conclusion: Crohn's disease presents a clinical complexity that goes beyond intestinal manifestations, with a series of comorbidities and clinical implications that require an integrated and multidisciplinary approach in its management. This review highlights the importance of understanding these aspects to improve the care and quality of life of patients with this chronic gastrointestinal condition

INFLUENCE OF HYPOTHYROIDISM ON PREGNANCY AND FETAL DEVELOPMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE INVESTIGATION OF THE RISKS, MECHANISMS AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES WITH LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM

Pregnancy is a critical period in which maternal health directly influences fetal development. Hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, can have a significant impact on this process. We investigated the risks, mechanisms and management strategies of hypothyroidism during pregnancy, focusing on the administration of levothyroxine sodium. This topic is crucial due to the potential adverse effects of untreated hypothyroidism on the mother and fetus, including complications such as miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, premature birth and deficits in the neurological development of the fetus. Objective: To conduct a systematic review of the literature to analyze the effects of hypothyroidism on pregnancy and fetal development, evaluate the effectiveness of levothyroxine sodium as a management strategy, and identify gaps in knowledge to guide future research. Methodology: Using the PRISMA checklist, the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were searched for articles published in the last 10 years. The descriptors used were "hypothyroidism", "pregnancy", "fetal development", "levothyroxine sodium" and "management". The inclusion criteria were original studies published in English, Portuguese or Spanish that investigated the effects of hypothyroidism on pregnancy and fetal development, as well as the effectiveness of levothyroxine sodium as a treatment. Exclusion criteria were duplicate studies, literature reviews and studies with small samples or inappropriate methodologies. Results: The studies reviewed highlighted the impacts of hypothyroidism during pregnancy, including an increased risk of obstetric complications and adversities in fetal development. Levothyroxine sodium has been shown to be effective in normalizing maternal hormone levels and reducing these risks, although questions about dosing and monitoring remain. More research is needed to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize management strategies. Conclusion: Hypothyroidism during pregnancy represents a significant clinical challenge, but adequate administration of levothyroxine sodium can mitigate many of the associated risks. However, careful monitoring and additional research are essential to better understand and fully address the impacts of this condition on pregnancy and fetal development.Pregnancy is a critical period in which maternal health directly influences fetal development. Hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, can have a significant impact on this process. We investigated the risks, mechanisms and management strategies of hypothyroidism during pregnancy, focusing on the administration of levothyroxine sodium. This topic is crucial due to the potential adverse effects of untreated hypothyroidism on the mother and fetus, including complications such as miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, premature birth and deficits in the neurological development of the fetus. Objective: To conduct a systematic review of the literature to analyze the effects of hypothyroidism on pregnancy and fetal development, evaluate the effectiveness of levothyroxine sodium as a management strategy, and identify gaps in knowledge to guide future research. Methodology: Using the PRISMA checklist, the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were searched for articles published in the last 10 years. The descriptors used were "hypothyroidism", "pregnancy", "fetal development", "levothyroxine sodium" and "management". The inclusion criteria were original studies published in English, Portuguese or Spanish that investigated the effects of hypothyroidism on pregnancy and fetal development, as well as the effectiveness of levothyroxine sodium as a treatment. Exclusion criteria were duplicate studies, literature reviews and studies with small samples or inappropriate methodologies. Results: The studies reviewed highlighted the impacts of hypothyroidism during pregnancy, including an increased risk of obstetric complications and adversities in fetal development. Levothyroxine sodium has been shown to be effective in normalizing maternal hormone levels and reducing these risks, although questions about dosing and monitoring remain. More research is needed to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize management strategies. Conclusion: Hypothyroidism during pregnancy represents a significant clinical challenge, but adequate administration of levothyroxine sodium can mitigate many of the associated risks. However, careful monitoring and additional research are essential to better understand and fully address the impacts of this condition on pregnancy and fetal development

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION IN LIVER CIRRHOSIS DUE TO HEPATITIS C: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF ITS ADVANTAGES, CHALLENGES AND IMPACT ON PATIENTS' QUALITY OF LIFE.

Liver cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C is a serious condition that often leads to the need for liver transplantation for patients in advanced stages of the disease. This procedure has been a crucial measure to improve survival and quality of life for these patients. However, its effectiveness and impact are the subject of critical analysis due to the associated challenges, such as the scarcity of donor organs, the risks of postoperative complications and the possibility of recurrence of hepatitis C virus infection in the new liver. Understanding the advantages and challenges of liver transplantation in hepatitis C liver cirrhosis is essential to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life. Objective: To critically analyze the advantages, challenges and impact on the quality of life of patients undergoing liver transplantation due to liver cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C. Methodology: A systematic literature review was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were searched for articles published in the last 10 years. The descriptors used were "liver transplant", "liver cirrhosis", "hepatitis C", "advantages", "challenges" and "quality of life". The inclusion criteria were original studies that addressed the topic in humans, written in English, Portuguese or Spanish. Exclusion criteria were animal studies, literature reviews and studies focusing on liver conditions other than hepatitis C. Results: The results highlighted the effectiveness of liver transplantation in improving the survival and quality of life of patients with liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C. However, challenges persist, including the limited availability of donor organs and the risk of relapse of hepatitis C virus infection. Strategies to mitigate these challenges have been discussed, such as the use of next-generation antiviral therapies. Conclusion: Liver transplantation is a vital intervention for patients with liver cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C, providing significant benefits in terms of survival and quality of life. However, the associated challenges need to be addressed to further improve outcomes and ensure the long-term success of this procedure.Liver cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C is a serious condition that often leads to the need for liver transplantation for patients in advanced stages of the disease. This procedure has been a crucial measure to improve survival and quality of life for these patients. However, its effectiveness and impact are the subject of critical analysis due to the associated challenges, such as the scarcity of donor organs, the risks of postoperative complications and the possibility of recurrence of hepatitis C virus infection in the new liver. Understanding the advantages and challenges of liver transplantation in hepatitis C liver cirrhosis is essential to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life. Objective: To critically analyze the advantages, challenges and impact on the quality of life of patients undergoing liver transplantation due to liver cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C. Methodology: A systematic literature review was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were searched for articles published in the last 10 years. The descriptors used were "liver transplant", "liver cirrhosis", "hepatitis C", "advantages", "challenges" and "quality of life". The inclusion criteria were original studies that addressed the topic in humans, written in English, Portuguese or Spanish. Exclusion criteria were animal studies, literature reviews and studies focusing on liver conditions other than hepatitis C. Results: The results highlighted the effectiveness of liver transplantation in improving the survival and quality of life of patients with liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C. However, challenges persist, including the limited availability of donor organs and the risk of relapse of hepatitis C virus infection. Strategies to mitigate these challenges have been discussed, such as the use of next-generation antiviral therapies. Conclusion: Liver transplantation is a vital intervention for patients with liver cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C, providing significant benefits in terms of survival and quality of life. However, the associated challenges need to be addressed to further improve outcomes and ensure the long-term success of this procedure

Sugarcane (Saccharum X officinarum): A Reference Study for the Regulation of Genetically Modified Cultivars in Brazil

Global interest in sugarcane has increased significantly in recent years due to its economic impact on sustainable energy production. Sugarcane breeding and better agronomic practices have contributed to a huge increase in sugarcane yield in the last 30 years. Additional increases in sugarcane yield are expected to result from the use of biotechnology tools in the near future. Genetically modified (GM) sugarcane that incorporates genes to increase resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses could play a major role in achieving this goal. However, to bring GM sugarcane to the market, it is necessary to follow a regulatory process that will evaluate the environmental and health impacts of this crop. The regulatory review process is usually accomplished through a comparison of the biology and composition of the GM cultivar and a non-GM counterpart. This review intends to provide information on non-GM sugarcane biology, genetics, breeding, agronomic management, processing, products and byproducts, as well as the current technologies used to develop GM sugarcane, with the aim of assisting regulators in the decision-making process regarding the commercial release of GM sugarcane cultivars

Análise comparativa das abordagens cirúrgicas no tratamento de cardiopatias

Em análise a evolução histórica e as inovações na cirurgia cardíaca, este estudo objetiva analisar comparativamente as abordagens cirúrgicas no tratamento de cardiopatias, destacando a transição das técnicas tradicionais de cirurgia aberta para métodos minimamente invasivos como a videolaparoscopia e a cirurgia robótica. Para tanto, procede-se à uma revisão narrativa da literatura, explorando uma gama extensiva de estudos e relatos científicos que ilustram os avanços tecnológicos e seus impactos nos resultados clínicos. Desse modo, observa-se que as técnicas minimamente invasivas oferecem benefícios substanciais, como redução no tempo de recuperação, diminuição do trauma cirúrgico, e menores taxas de complicações e mortalidade perioperatória em comparação com a cirurgia aberta. Estes resultados permitem concluir que a cirurgia minimamente invasiva representa um avanço significativo na prática cardiológica, proporcionando procedimentos mais seguros e eficazes, com menor impacto para os pacientes e melhores prognósticos a longo prazo. Para futuras pesquisas, sugere-se o aprofundamento na análise dos resultados a longo prazo e na integração de novas tecnologias, como inteligência artificial e realidade aumentada, para otimizar ainda mais as práticas cirúrgicas e expandir as possibilidades de tratamento das cardiopatias

Global disparities in surgeons’ workloads, academic engagement and rest periods: the on-calL shIft fOr geNEral SurgeonS (LIONESS) study

: The workload of general surgeons is multifaceted, encompassing not only surgical procedures but also a myriad of other responsibilities. From April to May 2023, we conducted a CHERRIES-compliant internet-based survey analyzing clinical practice, academic engagement, and post-on-call rest. The questionnaire featured six sections with 35 questions. Statistical analysis used Chi-square tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression (SPSS® v. 28). The survey received a total of 1.046 responses (65.4%). Over 78.0% of responders came from Europe, 65.1% came from a general surgery unit; 92.8% of European and 87.5% of North American respondents were involved in research, compared to 71.7% in Africa. Europe led in publishing research studies (6.6 ± 8.6 yearly). Teaching involvement was high in North America (100%) and Africa (91.7%). Surgeons reported an average of 6.7 ± 4.9 on-call shifts per month, with European and North American surgeons experiencing 6.5 ± 4.9 and 7.8 ± 4.1 on-calls monthly, respectively. African surgeons had the highest on-call frequency (8.7 ± 6.1). Post-on-call, only 35.1% of respondents received a day off. Europeans were most likely (40%) to have a day off, while African surgeons were least likely (6.7%). On the adjusted multivariable analysis HDI (Human Development Index) (aOR 1.993) hospital capacity > 400 beds (aOR 2.423), working in a specialty surgery unit (aOR 2.087), and making the on-call in-house (aOR 5.446), significantly predicted the likelihood of having a day off after an on-call shift. Our study revealed critical insights into the disparities in workload, access to research, and professional opportunities for surgeons across different continents, underscored by the HDI