Chemical characterization and antioxidant properties of Lepista nuda fruiting bodies and mycelia obtained by in vitro culture: effects of collection habitat and culture media

Lepista nuda is an edible mushroom which presents important organoleptic qualities including a delicate flavor and good postharvest conservation. Its chemical and bioactive properties can be affected by habitat collection. Therefore, the main goal of the present work was to compare chemical composition and antioxidant potential of Lepista nuda samples from different habitats, and mycelia produced by in vitro culture, using different culture media. The commercial sample (cultivated) gave the highest levels of energy, polyunsaturated fatty acids (due to the contribution of linoleic acid) and phenolic compounds; the wild sample from oak forest gave the highest levels of organic acids. Mycelia samples showed higher levels of glucose, tocopherols and antioxidant activity. Particularly, PACH (Pachlewski medium) proved to be better for glucose production, PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar medium), PACH and FAD (Ferry & Das medium) for β- and γ-tocopherols, complete MMN (Melin-Norkans medium) for phenolic compounds and incomplete MMN for antioxidant properties. Overall, in vitro culture could be explored to obtain bioactive compounds from macrofungi for industrial applications, controlling environmental conditions to produce higher amounts of these compounds and to overcome the diversity in chemical composition observed in samples collected in different habitats.Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT, Portugal) and COMPETE/QREN/EU for financial support to this work (research project PTDC/AGR-ALI/110062/2009) and to CIMO (strategic project PEst-OE/AGR/UI0690/2011). L. Barros also thanks to FCT, POPH-QREN and FSE for her grant (SFRH/BPD/4609/2008)

Natural resources with sweetener power: phytochemistry and antioxidant characterisation of Stevia Rebaudiana (Bert.), sensorial and centesimal analyses of lemon cake recipes with S. Rebaudiana incorporation

Stevia rebaudiana leaf extracts are calorie-free sweeteners of natural origin, derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant known as a natural sweetener, which contains steviol glycosides and others bioactive compounds recognized by their biological properties. The present study was designed to evaluate the total phenolics (26.0 mg gallic acid/g) and total flavonoids contents (9.7 mg catechin/g) of a hydroalcoholic extract of Stevia rebaudiana dried leaves. A similar hydroalcoholic extract of commercial powder steviol sweetener was also evaluated, showing lower contents of bioactive compounds (11.9 mg/g and 5.1 mg/g, for total phenolics and flavonoids, respectively). The hydroalcoholic extract of dried Stevia rebaudiana leaves also showed high in vitro antioxidant activity, besides a positive correlation between total phenolic compounds and the DPPH and FRAP assays. Moreover, Stevia rebaudiana leaves have sensory and functional properties superior to those of many other high-potency sweeteners and is likely to become a major source of natural sweetener for the growing food market. Thus, four different lemon cakes formulations were studied (a traditional cake control recipe with sugar, two cakes with incorporation of Stevia rebaudiana fresh leaf and a cake with commercial powder steviol), using a sensory analysis covering 100 untrained consumers. Centesimal composition analyses of the four lemon cakes showed significant differences in fat, ashes, proteins and carbohydrates contents (p<0.05). Also, the raised energy value observed for the cake control was superior to the cake with Stevia rebaudiana leaves incorporation (309.8 Kcal/100 g, 268.0 Kcal/100 g,142 respectively). Sensorial analysis results showed that Stevia rebaudiana leaves were accepted and, in the future, they can be a natural option to replace some or all the saccharose in cakes formulations.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Natural resources with sweetener power: phytochemistry and antioxidant characterisation of Stevia Rebaudiana (Bert.), sensorial and centesimal analyses of lemon cake recipes with S. Rebaudiana incorporation.

Stevia rebaudiana leaf extracts are calorie-free sweeteners of natural origin, derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant known as a natural sweetener, which contains steviol glycosides and others bioactive compounds recognized by their biological properties. The present study was designed to evaluate the total phenolics (26.0 mg gallic acid/g) and total flavonoids contents (9.7 mg catechin/g) of a hydroalcoholic extract of Stevia rebaudiana dried leaves. A similar hydroalcoholic extract of commercial powder steviol sweetener was also evaluated, showing lower contents of bioactive compounds (11.9 mg/g and 5.1 mg/g, for total phenolics and flavonoids, respectively). The hydroalcoholic extract of dried Stevia rebaudiana leaves also showed high in vitro antioxidant activity, besides a positive correlation between total phenolic compounds and the DPPH and FRAP assays. Moreover, Stevia rebaudiana leaves have sensory and functional properties superior to those of many other high-potency sweeteners and is likely to become a major source of natural sweetener for the growing food market. Thus, four different lemon cakes formulations were studied (a traditional cake control recipe with sugar, two cakes with incorporation of Stevia rebaudiana fresh leaf and a cake with commercial powder steviol), using a sensory analysis covering 100 untrained consumers. Centesimal composition analyses of the four lemon cakes showed significant differences in fat, ashes, proteins and carbohydrates contents (p<0.05). Also, the raised energy value observed for the cake control was superior to the cake with Stevia rebaudiana leaves incorporation (309.8 Kcal/100 g, 268.0 Kcal/100 g,142 respectively). Sensorial analysis results showed that Stevia rebaudiana leaves were accepted and, in the future, they can be a natural option to replace some or all the saccharose in cakes formulations.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Is there an association between postural balance and pulmonary function in adults with asthma?

OBJECTIVE: Asthma may cause systemic repercussions due to its severity and the effects of treatment. Our objective was to compare posture, balance, functional capacity, and quality of life (QOL) according to the severity of disease, as assessed by pulmonary function levels. METHOD: This cross-sectional study evaluated fifty individuals with asthma. We compared two groups of adult individuals who were divided according to the median of the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) as follows: group A  =  FEV1>;74% predicted; group B  =  FEV

Um ano de escola n'A Minha Praia – sensibilização para a problemática do lixo marinho utilizando a ciência-cidadã como ferramenta

Um ano de escola n’A Minha Praia – sensibilização para a problemática do lixo marinho utilizando a ciência-cidadã como ferramenta O Algarve reúne um conjunto de características que o tornam particularmente vulnerável à presença de lixo marinho e aos seus efeitos nefastos: uma orla costeira longa (aprox. 200km), um destino turístico muito popular, uma população residente concentrada no litoral e uma fração significativa da sociedade cuja subsistência depende de atividades económicas ligadas ao mar (pesca, marisqueio, extração de sal, passeios turísticos, etc.). Foi tendo em conta a magnitude e as consequências da propagação do lixo marinho na região que o Centro Ciência Viva de Tavira coordenou o projeto A Minha Praia, um dos vencedores da primeira edição do Orçamento Participativo Portugal (OPP) em 2017, e cuja execução foi garantida pela colaboração entre os três Centros Ciência Viva (CCVs) no Algarve, com o envolvimento de várias entidades regionais e nacionais. Este projeto permitiu que cerca de 933 alunos provenientes de 17 escolas fossem sensibilizados para a conservação do meio marinho, para hábitos de consumo sustentáveis e para o civismo ambiental, em simultâneo com ações de ciência-cidadã, nas quais periodicamente monitorizavam a presença de lixo marinho em seis praias da costa sul do Algarve. Ainda dentro da função didática do projeto, demonstramos a valorização do plástico (que é o maior componente do lixo marinho), aproveitando-o, reciclando-o e transformando-o em novos objetos que prolongam a sua utilidade.Esta apresentação foi dinamizada no âmbito do projecto OPP-A Minha (OPP220/437), financiado pela Ciência Viva - Agência Nacional para a Cultura Científica e Tecnológica e pela FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

TROMBOCITOPENIA IMUNE: FISIOPATOLOGIA E DIAGNÓSTICO DIFERENCIAL NA PRÁTICA CLÍNICA

Immune thrombocytopenia is a condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys blood platelets, leading to complications such as excessive bleeding. This review aims to explore current strategies in the diagnosis and treatment of immune thrombocytopenia, aiming to improve the understanding and management of this challenging hematological condition. Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to immune thrombocytopenia, highlighting current trends and knowledge gaps. The methodology involved systematic literature search using health science descriptors and careful selection of relevant studies for analysis.&nbsp; Methodology: Descriptors such as "Immune Thrombocytopenia," "Pathophysiology," "Diagnosis," and "Treatment" were used in various combinations to identify relevant articles in electronic databases. Inclusion criteria were defined based on relevance to the topic and methodological quality of selected studies. After identifying relevant studies, available diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in clinical practice were analyzed. Results: Analysis of selected studies revealed a variety of diagnostic strategies used, including laboratory tests and imaging. Regarding treatment, therapeutic options such as corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and spleen-directed therapies were identified. Additionally, new therapeutic approaches under development, such as targeted biological therapies, were explored as promising alternatives. Conclusion: In conclusion, immune thrombocytopenia represents a significant clinical challenge that requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach to its management. Understanding underlying mechanisms, early identification of patients at risk, and access to effective treatments are crucial for improving clinical outcomes and patients' quality of life. Continuity of research and medical education are essential to advance knowledge and treatment of this complex hematological condition.A trombocitopenia imune é uma condição na qual o sistema imunológico ataca e destrói as plaquetas sanguíneas, levando a complicações como sangramento excessivo. Esta revisão tem como objetivo explorar as estratégias atuais no diagnóstico e tratamento da trombocitopenia imune, visando melhorar a compreensão e o manejo dessa condição hematológica desafiadora. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a abordagem diagnóstica e terapêutica da trombocitopenia imune, destacando as tendências atuais e as lacunas no conhecimento. A metodologia adotada envolveu a busca sistemática na literatura utilizando descritores de ciências da saúde e a seleção criteriosa dos estudos relevantes para análise. Metodologia: Foram utilizados descritores como "Trombocitopenia Imune", "Fisiopatologia", "Diagnóstico" e "Tratamento" em combinações variadas para identificar artigos pertinentes em bases de dados eletrônicas. Os critérios de inclusão foram definidos com base na relevância ao tema e qualidade metodológica dos estudos selecionados. Após a identificação dos estudos relevantes, foram analisadas as abordagens diagnósticas e terapêuticas disponíveis na prática clínica. Resultados: A análise dos estudos selecionados revelou uma variedade de estratégias diagnósticas utilizadas, incluindo exames laboratoriais e de imagem. Quanto ao tratamento, foram identificadas opções terapêuticas como corticosteroides, imunoglobulina intravenosa e terapias direcionadas ao baço. Além disso, novas abordagens terapêuticas em desenvolvimento, como terapias biológicas direcionadas, foram exploradas como alternativas promissoras. Conclusão: Em conclusão, a trombocitopenia imune representa um desafio clínico significativo que requer uma abordagem multidisciplinar e individualizada no seu manejo. A compreensão dos mecanismos subjacentes, a identificação precoce dos pacientes em risco e o acesso a tratamentos eficazes são cruciais para melhorar os resultados clínicos e a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. A continuidade da pesquisa e educação médica são essenciais para avançar no conhecimento e no tratamento dessa condição hematológica complexa

Indicadores de cobertura vacinal/taxa de abandono nas capitais da região norte do Brasil: um desafio a educação popular em saúde na perspectiva da Atenção Primária / Indicators of vaccination coverage/ dropout rate in the capitals of the northern region of Brazil: a challenge to popular education in health from the perspective of Primary Health Care

Instituído pelo Ministério da Saúde (MS), o Programa Nacional de Imunização (PNI) foi elencado para cumprir os objetivos da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), e controlar principalmente o sarampo, tuberculose, difteria, tétano, coqueluche, poliomielite e manter até então, a já erradicada varíola. Este estudo objetivou-se em discutir sob a perspectiva da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) os desafios da cobertura vacinal nas capitais da região norte do Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico, descritivo, com abordagens quantiqualitativa. A pesquisa incluiu os 6 milhões de habitantes residentes das sete capitais dos estados que compõem a região norte do país, analisados sob a perspectiva da cobertura vacinal/taxa de abandono. Quanto a cobertura vacinal em relação ao índice populacional, nota-se maior abrangência em Palmas (TO), onde os índices na média comparativa entre os dois anos pesquisados encontraram-se em 74,30% e a maior taxa de abandono vacinal em Macapá (AP), 42,26%. Ressalta-se a importância da educação popular em saúde, principalmente na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), principal porta dos usuários aos serviços disponibilizados pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). 

MAMMALS IN PORTUGAL : A data set of terrestrial, volant, and marine mammal occurrences in P ortugal

Mammals are threatened worldwide, with 26% of all species being includedin the IUCN threatened categories. This overall pattern is primarily associatedwith habitat loss or degradation, and human persecution for terrestrial mam-mals, and pollution, open net fishing, climate change, and prey depletion formarine mammals. Mammals play a key role in maintaining ecosystems func-tionality and resilience, and therefore information on their distribution is cru-cial to delineate and support conservation actions. MAMMALS INPORTUGAL is a publicly available data set compiling unpublishedgeoreferenced occurrence records of 92 terrestrial, volant, and marine mam-mals in mainland Portugal and archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira thatincludes 105,026 data entries between 1873 and 2021 (72% of the data occur-ring in 2000 and 2021). The methods used to collect the data were: live obser-vations/captures (43%), sign surveys (35%), camera trapping (16%),bioacoustics surveys (4%) and radiotracking, and inquiries that represent lessthan 1% of the records. The data set includes 13 types of records: (1) burrowsjsoil moundsjtunnel, (2) capture, (3) colony, (4) dead animaljhairjskullsjjaws, (5) genetic confirmation, (6) inquiries, (7) observation of live animal (8),observation in shelters, (9) photo trappingjvideo, (10) predators dietjpelletsjpine cones/nuts, (11) scatjtrackjditch, (12) telemetry and (13) vocalizationjecholocation. The spatial uncertainty of most records ranges between 0 and100 m (76%). Rodentia (n=31,573) has the highest number of records followedby Chiroptera (n=18,857), Carnivora (n=18,594), Lagomorpha (n=17,496),Cetartiodactyla (n=11,568) and Eulipotyphla (n=7008). The data setincludes records of species classified by the IUCN as threatened(e.g.,Oryctolagus cuniculus[n=12,159],Monachus monachus[n=1,512],andLynx pardinus[n=197]). We believe that this data set may stimulate thepublication of other European countries data sets that would certainly contrib-ute to ecology and conservation-related research, and therefore assisting onthe development of more accurate and tailored conservation managementstrategies for each species. There are no copyright restrictions; please cite thisdata paper when the data are used in publications.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Prognostic indicators and outcomes of hospitalised COVID-19 patients with neurological disease: An individual patient data meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Neurological COVID-19 disease has been reported widely, but published studies often lack information on neurological outcomes and prognostic risk factors. We aimed to describe the spectrum of neurological disease in hospitalised COVID-19 patients; characterise clinical outcomes; and investigate factors associated with a poor outcome. METHODS: We conducted an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis of hospitalised patients with neurological COVID-19 disease, using standard case definitions. We invited authors of studies from the first pandemic wave, plus clinicians in the Global COVID-Neuro Network with unpublished data, to contribute. We analysed features associated with poor outcome (moderate to severe disability or death, 3 to 6 on the modified Rankin Scale) using multivariable models. RESULTS: We included 83 studies (31 unpublished) providing IPD for 1979 patients with COVID-19 and acute new-onset neurological disease. Encephalopathy (978 [49%] patients) and cerebrovascular events (506 [26%]) were the most common diagnoses. Respiratory and systemic symptoms preceded neurological features in 93% of patients; one third developed neurological disease after hospital admission. A poor outcome was more common in patients with cerebrovascular events (76% [95% CI 67-82]), than encephalopathy (54% [42-65]). Intensive care use was high (38% [35-41]) overall, and also greater in the cerebrovascular patients. In the cerebrovascular, but not encephalopathic patients, risk factors for poor outcome included breathlessness on admission and elevated D-dimer. Overall, 30-day mortality was 30% [27-32]. The hazard of death was comparatively lower for patients in the WHO European region. INTERPRETATION: Neurological COVID-19 disease poses a considerable burden in terms of disease outcomes and use of hospital resources from prolonged intensive care and inpatient admission; preliminary data suggest these may differ according to WHO regions and country income levels. The different risk factors for encephalopathy and stroke suggest different disease mechanisms which may be amenable to intervention, especially in those who develop neurological symptoms after hospital admission