Seasonal impact of acid mine drainage on water quality and potential ecological risk in an old sulfide exploitation

Sulfides are usually associated with deposits of metals and coal. The reactive wastes from their exploitation, typically stored in piles and tailings dams, are often the mining sector's primary source of environmental problems. The surrounding river waters can present signs of acid mine drainage, responsible for aquatic ecosystem degradation. So, the main target of the present study is to investigate the impact of this process on the water's environmental quality and potential ecological risk. The study area is located at the Iberian Pyrite Belt, in an old sulfide exploitation, closed without environmental rehabilitation measures. The results exhibit high sulfate concentrations (410,601 mg/L) and potentially toxic elements, with prominence of Fe (134,000 mg/L), overcoming many other extreme cases of AMD pollution. The Ficklin diagram exposes that most samples are classified as "high-acid, high-metal." Two of them have extreme classifications (high-acid, extreme-metal). The pH value is well below the acceptable range for the environmental quality of superficial waters (5-7), measuring at a minimum of 0.84. Regarding seasonal variability, the study showed a higher degree of contamination in dry conditions (e.g., 4,420 mg/L of Cu), while the rainy month had lower concentrations of PTE (186.8 mg/L of Cu for the same sampling point). In addition, the water does not accomplish the environmental objectives established by the EU Water Framework Directive. According to the new approach developed based on a scale adjustment, the potential ecological risk index studied indicates that most sampled sites present strong, very strong, and even extremely potential ecological risk. With a typical Mediterranean climate, the region suffers from water scarcity, predicting increasingly in the future more degrading scenarios for water environmental quality. Consequently, urgent mitigation and remediation measures are necessary to improve and preserve water quality and fulfill the objectives of the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals.

Cobalt Ferrite Synthesized Using a Biogenic Sol-Gel Method for Biomedical Applications

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Conventional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy have limitations and severe side effects. Magnetic hyperthermia (MH) is an alternative method that can be used alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy or radiotherapy to treat cancer. Cobalt ferrite particles were synthesized using an innovative biogenic sol-gel method with powder of coconut water (PCW). The obtained powders were subjected to heat treatments between 500 °C and 1100 °C. Subsequently, they were characterized by thermal, structural, magnetic, and cytotoxic analyses to assess their suitability for MH applications. Through X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, it was possible to confirm the presence of the pure phase of CoFe2O4 in the sample treated at 1100 °C, exhibiting a saturation magnetization of 84 emu/g at 300 K and an average grain size of 542 nm. Furthermore, the sample treated at 1100 °C showed a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 3.91 W/g, and at concentrations equal to or below 5 mg/mL, is non-cytotoxic, being the most suitable for biomedical applications.

Glucocorticoid stress hormones stimulate vesicle-free Tau secretion and spreading in the brain

Chronic stress and elevated levels of glucocorticoids (GCs), the main stress hormones, accelerate Alzheimer's disease (AD) onset and progression. A major driver of AD progression is the spreading of pathogenic Tau protein between brain regions, precipitated by neuronal Tau secretion. While stress and high GC levels are known to induce intraneuronal Tau pathology (i.e. hyperphosphorylation, oligomerization) in animal models, their role in trans-neuronal Tau spreading is unexplored. Here, we find that GCs promote secretion of full-length, vesicle-free, phosphorylated Tau from murine hippocampal neurons and ex vivo brain slices. This process occurs via type 1 unconventional protein secretion (UPS) and requires neuronal activity and the kinase GSK3b. GCs also dramatically enhance trans-neuronal Tau spreading in vivo, and this effect is blocked by an inhibitor of Tau oligomerization and type 1 UPS. These findings uncover a potential mechanism by which stress/GCs stimulate Tau propagation in AD.

Extracellular vesicles and Alzheimer's disease in the novel era of Precision Medicine: implications for disease progression, diagnosis and treatment

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), secreted membranous nano-sized particles, are critical intercellular messengers participating in nervous system homeostasis, while recent evidence implicates EVs in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Specifically, small EVs have been shown to spread toxic proteins, induce neuronal loss, and contribute to neuroinflammation and AD progression. On the other hand, EVs can reduce amyloid-beta deposition and transfer neuroprotective substances between cells, mitigating disease mechanisms. In addition to their roles in AD pathogenesis, EVs also exhibit great potential for the diagnosis and treatment of other brain disorders, representing an advantageous tool for Precision Medicine. Herein, we summarize the contribution of small EVs to AD-related mechanisms and disease progression, as well as their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic agents for AD.

Rare earth elements - Source and evolution in an aquatic system dominated by mine-Influenced waters

Acid mine drainage (AMD), formed by the instability of sulfides, typically generates acidity and releases potentially toxic elements and sulfate to the environment, among other pollutants. An example is the group of rare earth elements (REE) that may have high toxic behavior. This toxicity leads to degradation of soils, water reservoirs and rivers, promoting serious risks for the ecosystems. So, the main goal of the present work is to study the hydrochemical properties of a system with mine-influenced waters during the rainy season, focusing on the origin, evolution/behavior, and concentration of REE. The study area is the São Domingos mining complex, located in one of the largest metallogenetic provinces in the world (Iberian Pyrite Belt), known by the evidences of AMD contamination. The obtained results reveal extraordinarily low pH (0.4), high electrical conductivity, reaching 26,200 μS/cm, and high values of sulfate and acidity. Regarding the REE, the determined concentration exceeded that observed in normal pH of neutral freshwaters by 2-3 times the order of magnitude. The results revealed that Y and Ce are distinguished in practically all sampled sites, due to its higher concentrations, with maximum values of 221.8 and 166.9 μg/L. In general, the concentrations increase as the water pH decreases. The statistical analysis indicates that REE elements may have a common origin, mutual dependence, and similar behavior during transport with typical AMD elements and composition of host rocks. Most samples show enrichment in middle REE (MREE) (Gdn/Lun), like the classic signature of AMD. In turn, colloids and AMD-precipitates may be participating in the incorporation of these elements. Therefore, due to potential risk of impacts on ecosystems, REE are a topic of relevant interest for future studies in order to assist monitoring processes and help government decisions related to water quality management.

Do basic auscultation skills need to be resuscitated? A new strategy for improving competency among nursing students

BACKGROUND

Auscultation of heart and lung sounds is a foundational competency for Registered Nurses (RNs). Precise and timely assessments are important for the early detection and recognition of the deteriorating patient. Studies have shown that improved teaching methods that incorporate emerging technologies and address different learning styles are needed to improve competency in auscultation.

METHOD

Undergraduate nursing students (n = 127) were randomized into treatment and control groups. The control group received the usual preparation in auscultation learning strategies. The treatment group received the usual training plus three auscultation learning sessions that were each 2 h in length (cardiac, pulmonary and mixed sounds).

RESULTS

The virtual auscultation teaching strategy had a significant impact on undergraduate nursing student's competency in recognizing heart murmurs. The treatment group also had increased scores compared to the control group increased scores in distinguishing normal versus abnormal heart and lung sounds, identification of crackles and diminished breath sounds.

CONCLUSION

Virtual auscultation as a teaching strategy was shown to have a positive impact on undergraduate student nurse competence in accurately identifying heart and lung sounds.

Lactation curve model with explicit representation of perturbations as a phenotyping tool for dairy livestock precision farming

In the context of dairy farming, ruminant females often face challenges inducing perturbations that affect their performance and welfare. A key issue is how to assess the effect of perturbations and provide metrics to quantify how animals cope with their environment. Milk production dynamics are good candidates to address this issue: i) they are easily accessible, ii) overall dynamics throughout lactation process are well described and iii) perturbations are visible through milk losses. In this study, a perturbed lactation model (PLM) with explicit representation of perturbations was developed. The model combines two components: i) the unperturbed lactation model that describes a theoretical lactation curve, assumed to reflect female production potential and ii) the perturbation model that describes all the deviations from the unperturbed lactation model with four parameters: starting date, intensity and shape (collapse and recovery). To illustrate the use of the PLM as a phenotyping tool, it was fitted on a data set of 319 complete lactations from 181 individual dairy goats. A total of 2 354 perturbations were detected, with an average of 7.40 perturbations per lactation. Loss of milk production for the whole lactation due to perturbations varied between 2 and 19% of the milk production predicted by the unperturbed lactation model. The number of perturbations was not the major factor explaining the loss of milk production, suggesting that there are different types of animal response to challenges. By incorporating explicit representation of perturbations in a lactation model, it was possible to determine for each female the potential milk production, characteristics of each perturbation and milk losses induced by perturbations. Further, it was possible to compare animals and analyze individual variability. The indicators produced by the PLM are likely to be useful to move from raw data to decision support tools in dairy production.

UVB photoprotective capacity of hydrogels containing dihydromyricetin nanocapsules to UV-induced DNA damage

We evaluate the effect of cationic nanocapsules containing dihydromyricetin (DMY) flavonoid for safe topical use in photoprotection against UV-induced DNA damage. The stability was investigated for feasibility to produce hydrogels containing cationic nanocapsules of the flavonoid DMY (NC-DMY) for 90 days under three different storage conditions (4 ± 2 °C, 25 ± 2 °C, and 40 ± 2 °C), as well as evaluation of skin permeation and its cytotoxicity in skin cell lines. The physicochemical and rheological characteristics were maintained during the analysis period under the different aforementioned conditions. However, at 25 °C and 40 °C, the formulations indicated yellowish coloration and DMY content reduction. Therefore, the ideal storage condition of 4 °C was adopted. DMY remained in the stratum corneum and the uppermost layers of the skin. Regarding safety, all formulations demonstrated to be safe for topical application. NC-DMY exhibited a 50% Solar Protection Factor (SPF-DNA) against DNA damage caused by UVB radiation and demonstrated 99.9% protection against DNA lesion induction. These findings establish a promising formulation containing nanoencapsulated DMY flavonoids with a photoprotective and antioxidant potential of eliminating reactive oxygen species formed by solar radiation.

Type I Tympanoplasty: surgical success and prognostic factors

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate success rate of type I tympanoplasty in adults and to investigate the importance of selected prognostic factors on graft uptake.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective medical chart review of 155 patients who underwent Type I Tympanoplasty, in our department, from January 2013 to December 2017. Graft uptake rate was evaluated and the effects of prognostic factors on surgical outcome such as sex, smoking and otological surgery history, status of the contralateral ear, size and location of the perforation, middle ear mucosa status, surgical approach and graft material. Preoperative and postoperative audiometric data were collected, and the functional success was determined.

RESULTS

The overall surgical anatomical success rate was 75%. Analysis of the selected variables, identified as independent prognostic factors of anatomical unsuccess (95% CI): smoking (OR=3.29, p<.01), middle ear tympanosclerosis (OR=2.96; p=.04). Perforations above 50% of the tympanic membrane area had a borderline effect on graft uptake (p=.05). There was a significative improvement in the average air conduction thresholds of 7.44dB and an ABG closure rate at 10dB and 20dB was achieved in 47% and 84.5%, respectively. Patients who received temporalis fascia graft had similar hearing gain compared to patients who underwent cartilage tympanoplasty (7.7 vs. 7.3dB, p=.79).

CONCLUSION

Type I tympanoplasty is an effective and safe procedure with a high anatomical success rate in the treatment of mucosal COM. Poorer outcomes were found in patients with smoking habits, in those with tympanosclerosis of middle ear mucosa and in larger perforations. These prognostic factors should be considered in surgical planning and patients should be advised to quit smoking. Tympanoplasty with cartilage graft had a hearing outcome comparable to temporalis fascia graft and should be considered in high-risk patients.

Photosynthetic pigments in acid mine drainage: Seasonal patterns and associations with stressful abiotic characteristics

Acid mine drainage represents an extreme type of water pollution. The environments develop especial hydrochemical and ecological characteristics, such as high concentrations of acidity and low biodiversity, with dominance of acidophilic organisms. Ecological criteria are assuming increasing relevance for assessing water quality, including in acid mine drainage-affected systems. Photosynthetic pigments, like chlorophyll, could be considered in this context as they are generally used to estimate phytoplankton biomass. The present work was focused on acid mine drainage and their relationships with chlorophyll a. It was developed in the historic mine of São Domingos (Iberian Pyrite Belt, SW Europe). The methodological approach comprised two sampling campaigns (October and February) to represent seasonal behaviour. The diversity of hydrological conditions was also considered through sampling sites established in the pit lake, acidic lagoons and affected stream. Hydrochemistry and chlorophyll a were analysed. The obtained results revealed very low pH values, with a minimum of 2.1. In general, hydrochemistry indicates higher concentrations of pollutants in summer. One of the sampling point, located in an acidic lagoon, stood out by highest concentrations, presenting maximum of sulfate (6564 mg/L), As (6.26 mg/L), and metals like Al (675 mg/L), Cd (1,30 mg/L), Zn (199 mg/L). These highest concentrations coincided with the maximum concentration of chlorophyll a (113 μg/L). The results suggested that the more contaminated the environment, more chlorophyll a was produced. Factor analyses emphasised the relationships between acid drainage properties and the photosynthetic activity, indicating a strong pH dependency of chlorophyll a production.

Second-derivative spectrophotometry for the analysis of simvastatin in polymeric nanocapsules

Conventional spectrophotometry methods are very susceptible to the presence of interferences in complex mixtures such as nanoparticules, requiring prior treatment or extraction of the analyte, and not always providing an adequate response. Derivative spectrophotometry method is capable to eliminate its interference; it is an alternative method for drugs determination in complex matrices. This work investigated the utility of derivate spectrophotometry in assay of simvastatin in polymeric nanocapsules (SIVNC). Shimadzu® UV-1650 double-beam spectrophotometer with 1.0 cm quartz cells was used in this study. The second-order deriva­tive spectrum was obtained employing Δλ=20,000 nm and scaling factor=9.0. The determinations were made at 239 nm (2D239) by zero-crossing method. 2D239 method was validated employing the parameters: specificity, linearity, robustness, precision and accuracy. Results: The specificity test showed there was no interference of constituents commonly found in SIVNC formulation in 2D239. The standard curve showed a correlation coefficient of 0.994. The robustness was evaluated by small changes in the conditions of sample analysis and however, no significant changes were observed regarding drug quantitation. The precision was demonstrated by relative standard deviation (RSD) of intra-day (RSD=1.61-3.76) and inter-day studies (RSD=2.32). The recovery test resulted in an average of 100.66%, which confirmed the accuracy of the method. The procedure was simple and rapid; therefore this technique offers an alternative for determination of SIVNC without interferences.

Stress Degradation Studies and Kinetic Determinations of Duloxetine Enteric-Coated Pellets by HPLC

A stability-indicating HPLC assay method was developed for the quantitative determination of duloxetine (DLX) in a pharmaceutical dosage form in the presence of its degradation products, and kinetic determinations were evaluated in acid conditions and UV-C radiation exposure. Chromatographic separation was achieved by use of an ACE&lt;sup/&gt; C18 column (250 4.0 mm id, 5 m particle size). The mobile phase was prepared by mixing aqueous 50 mM potassium phosphate buffer (pH 6.0 containing 0.3 triethylamine) and acetonitrile (60 40, v/v). DLX was rapidly degraded in an acid medium and in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and UV-C radiation; it was more stable in alkaline medium. The described method was linear over a range of 4.014.0 g/mL for determination of DLX (r = 0.9998). The precision was demonstrated by the RSD of intraday (0.791.07) and interday (0.85) studies. The mean recovery was found to be 100.56. The acid degradation of DLX in 0.1 M HCl solution showed an apparent zero-order kinetics (k = 0.177 g/mL/min), and the photodegradation demonstrated an apparent first-order kinetics (k = 0.082 g/mL/min). The developed method was found to be simple, specific, robust, linear, precise, and accurate for the determination of DLX in enteric-coated pellets.

Role of age and anticoagulants in recurrent idiopathic epistaxis

OBJECTIVE

Epistaxis is one of the commonest causes of attendance of Otolaryngology emergency rooms. Given its incidence, potential severity and high recurrence rate, a systematic and careful management is mandatory. This work aims to define prognostic factors of epistaxis recurrence.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective review of medical records of patients with epistaxis admitted to our emergency department from January 2012 to December 2016. Data of 1005 patients with idiopathic epistaxis were analysed and independent risk factors for recurrence were determined by multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Recurrence of epistaxis was found in 303 (30.1%) patients. Patients with recurrent epistaxis were older (p<.001) and more commonly had a history of hypertension (p=.001) and antiplatelet (p=.048) and anticoagulant (p=.001) use than those with episodic epistaxis. Age (adjusted OR 1.21, 95%CI 1.08-1.32, p=.003) and anticoagulant use (adjusted OR 2.68, 95%CI 1.94-3.70, p=.009) were predictors of increased risk of recurrent epistaxis. Gender, alcohol abuse, medical history, active bleeding at admission, unidentified bleeding point or treatment modalities were not associated with recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Age and use of anticoagulation drugs were risk factors for recurrence of epistaxis. None of the previously described risk factors for episodic epistaxis were found to increase the risk of recurrence. Knowledge of factors involved in recurrence might provide important information for assessment and management of increased risk patients.

Clinical assessment, diagnosis and management of patients with unilateral sinonasal disease

OBJECTIVES

Unilateral sinonasal disease is commonly encountered in practice and represents an issue of major concern since neoplasms may mimic inflammatory conditions. This paper aims to describe the demographic, clinical and radiological patterns of unilateral pathologies and, accordingly, to establish a guiding algorithm for diagnosis and management.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of patients with unilateral sinus opacification on CT scan who underwent endoscopic nasal surgery in our department from January 2011 to December 2017.

RESULTS

Of the 150 patients included, 97(64.7%) and 53(35.3%) had inflammatory and neoplastic pathology, respectively. In the neoplastic group, malignancy was present in 35% of patients. Neoplastic conditions were more common in males (p=0.02) and older patients (56±18 years vs. 38±18, p<.01). Nasal mass or polyp was observed in 56.7% patients. Chronic sinusitis was the most prevalent inflammatory condition, whereas inverted papilloma and osteoma were the most frequent neoplasms. Facial neuralgia, paraesthesia, epistaxis and, on CT scan, superior Lund-Mackay scores, bone remodelling and erosion were significantly more common in neoplastic conditions. Excellent agreement between punch biopsy and postoperative histological results was obtained (k=.883, p<.001).

CONCLUSION

A sequential and careful management of unilateral lesions is mandatory. Based on our experience, we propose that, as routine, physical examination should be complemented with nasal endoscopy, CT scan and punch biopsy, in case of visible mass. Although clinical and radiological information might raise suspicion of some conditions, final diagnosis can only be established with histological examination of the surgical specimen.

Lipid-core nanocapsules are an alternative to the pulmonary delivery and to increase the stability of statins

Aims: Lipid-core nanocapsules (LNCs) loaded with simvastatin (SV, SV-LNC) or lovastatin (LV, LV-LNC) were formulated for pulmonary administration. Methods: The LNC suspensions were characterized physicochemically, their stability was evaluated, and drug delivery by the pulmonary route was tested in vitro. Results: The loaded LNCs had a particle size close to 200 nm, a low polydispersity index, and a zeta potential around -20 mV. The encapsulation efficiency was high for SV (99.21 ± 0.7%) but low for LV (20.34 ± 1.2%). SV release from nanocapsules was slower than it was from SV in solution, with a monoexponential release profile, and the drug emitted and aerosol output rate was higher for SV-LNCs (1.58 µg/s) than for SV in suspension (0.54 µg/s). Conclusions: SV-LNCs had a median aerodynamic diameter of 3.51 µm and a highly respirable fraction (61.9%), indicating that nanoparticles are a suitable system for efficient delivery of simvastatin to the lung.

Activated PPARγ Abrogates Misprocessing of Amyloid Precursor Protein, Tau Missorting and Synaptotoxicity

Type 2 diabetes increases the risk for dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Pioglitazone (Pio), a pharmacological agonist of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), improves insulin sensitivity and has been suggested to have potential in the management of AD symptoms, albeit through mostly unknown mechanisms. We here investigated the potential of Pio to counter synaptic malfunction and loss, a characteristic of AD pathology and its accompanying cognitive deficits. Results from experiments on primary mouse neuronal cultures and a human neural cell line (SH-SY5Y) show that Pio treatment attenuates amyloid β (Aβ)-triggered the pathological (mis-) processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and inhibits Aβ-induced accumulation and hyperphosphorylation of Tau. These events are accompanied by increased glutamatergic receptor 2B subunit (GluN2B) levels that are causally linked with neuronal death. Further, Pio treatment blocks Aβ-triggered missorting of hyperphosphorylated Tau to synapses and the subsequent loss of PSD95-positive synapses. These latter effects of Pio are PPARγ-mediated since they are blocked in the presence of GW9662, a selective PPARγ inhibitor. Collectively, these data show that activated PPARγ buffer neurons against APP misprocessing, Tau hyperphosphorylation and its missorting to synapses and subsequently, synaptic loss. These first insights into the mechanisms through which PPARγ influences synaptic loss make a case for further exploration of the potential usefulness of PPARγ agonists in the prevention and treatment of synaptic pathology in AD.

Endolysosomal degradation of Tau and its role in glucocorticoid-driven hippocampal malfunction

Emerging studies implicate Tau as an essential mediator of neuronal atrophy and cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD), yet the factors that precipitate Tau dysfunction in AD are poorly understood. Chronic environmental stress and elevated glucocorticoids (GC), the major stress hormones, are associated with increased risk of AD and have been shown to trigger intracellular Tau accumulation and downstream Tau-dependent neuronal dysfunction. However, the mechanisms through which stress and GC disrupt Tau clearance and degradation in neurons remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that Tau undergoes degradation via endolysosomal sorting in a pathway requiring the small GTPase Rab35 and the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery. Furthermore, we find that GC impair Tau degradation by decreasing Rab35 levels, and that AAV-mediated expression of Rab35 in the hippocampus rescues GC-induced Tau accumulation and related neurostructural deficits. These studies indicate that the Rab35/ESCRT pathway is essential for Tau clearance and part of the mechanism through which GC precipitate brain pathology.

Role of plant volatiles and hetero-specific pheromone components in the wind tunnel response of male Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) to modified sex pheromone blends

Female Grapholita molesta (Busck) release a pheromone blend composed of two stereoisomeric acetates (Z8-12:Ac and E8-12:Ac), which in a 100:6 ratio stimulate maximum conspecific male approach. Z8-12:OH is described as a third pheromone component that increases responses to the acetate blend. Departures from the optimal pheromone blend ratio, or too high or low pheromone doses of the optimal blend ratio, result in lower male response. In a previous study, we show that plant volatiles synergize male response to a suboptimal-low pheromone concentration. In the present study, we show that the plant blend does not synergize male response to a suboptimal-high pheromone dose. The plant blend, however, synergized male response to pheromone blends containing unnatural Z:E-acetate isomer ratios. We revisited the role of alcohols in the pheromone response of G. molesta by replacing Z8-12:OH with conspecific and heterospecific pheromone alcohols or with plant odors. Codlemone, the alcohol sex pheromone of Cydia pomonella L., E8, E10-12:OH, did supplant the role of Z8-12:OH, and so did the plant volatile blend. Dodecenol (12:OH), which has been described as a fourth pheromone component of G. molesta, also increased responses, but not as much as Z8-12:OH, codlemone or the plant blend. Our results reveal new functions for plant volatiles on moth sex pheromone response under laboratory conditions, and shed new light on the role of alcohol ingredients in the pheromone blend of G. molesta.

Hydrochemical characterization of a river affected by acid mine drainage in the Iberian Pyrite Belt

This paper addresses the modelling of the processes associated with acid mine drainage affecting the Trimpancho River basin, chosen for this purpose because of its location and paradigmatic hydrological, geological, mining and environmental contexts. By using physical-chemical indicators it is possible to define the contamination degree of the system from the perspective of an entire river basin, due to its reduced dimension. This allows an exhaustive monitoring of the study area, considering the particularity that the stream flows directly into a water dam used for human supply. With such a perspective, and in order to find global solutions, the present study seeks to develop methodologies and tools for expeditious and accurate diagnosis of the pollution level of the affected stream that feeds the water reservoir. The implemented methodology can be applied to other water systems affected by similar problems, while the results will contribute to the development of the state of the art in a representative basin of the Iberian Pyrite Belt, whose pollutants' contributions are incorporated into the reservoir.

First record of Cynoscion regalis (Pisces, Sciaenidae) in Portuguese continental waters

The occurrence of Cynoscion regalis in Portuguese continental waters is reported for the first time, with six specimens collected in 2015 from three areas: Tagus Estuary, Sado Estuary and Praia da Vieira (central-west coast). Analyses of morphometric and meristic characteristics confirmed all six specimens as C. regalis; further validation was obtained by sequencing a 675 bp region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene. These records constitute a range extension of C. regalis into the southern north-east Atlantic Ocean.

Anti biofilm effect of dihydromyricetin-loaded nanocapsules on urinary catheter infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Nosocomial infections associated with biofilm formation on urinary catheters are among the leading causes of complications due to biofilm characteristics and high antimicrobial resistance. An interesting alternative are natural products, such as Dihydromyricetin (DMY), a flavonoid which presents several pharmacological properties, including strong antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms. However, DMY, has low aqueous solubility and consequently low bioavailability. Nanoencapsulation can contribute to the improvement of characteristics of some drugs, by increasing the apparent solubility and sustained release has been reported among other advantages. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the feasibility of DMY nanoencapsulation, and to look at its influence on nanoencapsulation of DMY as well as verify its influence on antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity on urinary catheters infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The physicochemical characterization showed an average diameter less than 170nm, low polydispersity index, positive zeta potential (between +11 and +14mV), slightly acidic pH. The values of the stability study results showed that the best condition for suspension storage without losing physical and chemical characteristics was under refrigeration (4±2°C). The antibiofilm activity of the formulations resulted in the eradication of biofilms both in free DMY formulations and in nanocapsules of DMY during those periods. However, within 96h the results of the inhibition of biofilm by DMY nanocapsules were more effective compared with free DMY. Thus, the nanocapsule formulation containing DMY can potentially be used as an innovative approach to urinary catheter biofilm treatment or prevention.

Impact of PMS on organizational performance and moderating effects of context

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of performance measurement systems (PMS) on organizational performance in public sector. In addition, it investigates the moderating effects of the organizational context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a multivariate analysis, the authors investigate the extent of PMS used among Portuguese Government agencies and their effects on organizational performance. Data were gathered from the only survey (based on their Comparative Public Organization Data Base for Research and Analysis survey) applied to the Portuguese Government agencies.

Findings

The authors find that the extent to which agencies use PMS is positively associated with the organizational performance (in a multidimensional perspective). Moreover, the organizational performance is contingent upon the fit between PMS and the agency’s context in light of the contingency theory (especially the orientation to citizens and the level of competition).

Originality/value

Although prior research has studied the use of PMS in public sector organizations, one question that has not been effectively answered is whether performance information is effectively used to improve public sector performance. In this way, this paper contributes to the understanding of the impact of PMS on the organizational performance, providing empirical evidence in a country that is in a period of “transition” in the introduction of NPM reforms.

Fenton Reaction-Generated Advanced Oxidation Protein Products Induces Inflammation in Human Embryonic Kidney Cells

Fenton reaction is a new mechanism able to generate advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) by exposing the human serum albumin to the Fenton system. Here, we characterized the effects of Fenton reaction-generated advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP-FR) on the gene transcription of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK 293). To investigate the effects of AOPP-FR and AOPP-HOCl on transcription of inflammatory genes, the NF-κB, COX-2, and IL-6 luciferase promoter activities were analyzed. AOPP-FR and AOPP-HOCl were able to induce the activation of the gene transcription of NF-κB, COX-2, and IL-6 in HEK 293 cells. However, the effects of AOPP-FR were significantly higher than the effects of AOPP-HOCl in relation to COX-2 and IL-6. AOPP-FR induces the activation of the gene transcription of NF-κB, COX-2, and IL-6 and may represent a novel pathogenic mediator of inflammation in kidney.

The effect of data exchange protocols on decision support systems for heart sounds

Heart auscultation is one of the basic exams performed during a patient physical examination, but it is also one that has a high skill ceiling. Decision support systems can provide physicians with a tool that can help to reduce the demanding skill requirements of this exam. Nevertheless, this second opinion needs to be delivered in a timely interval in order to be truly useful for a physician. To do this we need not only optimized algorithms, but also a well designed system. In this paper, we have studied how two different data exchange protocols, that define how data should be transferred from an acquisition to a process module, can impact the celerity of delivering second opinion to a physician. With data collected from real exams, acquired in a field hospital initiative in Brazil, we recreated two use cases that allowed us to measure performance in the form of time and resources spent, as well as power consumption. Results have shown that different data exchange protocols can have a significant impact on a decision support system response time.

Teaching cardiopulmonary auscultation in workshops using a virtual patient simulation technology - A pilot study

Auscultation is currently both a powerful screening tool, providing a cheap and quick initial assessment of a patient's clinical condition, and a hard skill to master. The teaching of auscultation in Universities is today reduced to an unsuitable number of hours. Virtual patient simulators can potentially mitigate this problem, by providing an interesting high-quality alternative to teaching with real patients or patient simulators. In this paper we evaluate the pedagogical impact of using a virtual patient simulation technology in a short workshop format for medical students, training them to detect cardiac pathologies. Results showed a significant improvement (+16%) in the differentiation between normal and pathological cases, although longer duration formats seem to be needed to accurately identify specific pathologies.

Measuring the intuitive response of users when faced with different interactive paradigms to control a gastroenterology CAD system

The gastroenterology specialty could benefit from the introduction of Computer Assisted Decision (CAD) systems, since gastric cancer is a serious concern in which an accurate and early diagnosis usually leads to a good prognosis. Still, the way doctors interact with these systems is very important because it will often determine its embracement or rejection, as any gains in productivity will frequently hinge on how comfortable they are with it. Using other types of interaction paradigms such as voice and motion control, is important in a way that typical inputs such as keyboard and mouse are sometimes not the best choice for certain clinical scenarios. In order to ascertain how a doctor could control a hypothetical CAD system during a gastroenterology exam, we measured the natural response of users when faced with three different task requests, using three types of interaction paradigms: voice, gesture and endoscope. Results fit in what was expected, with gesture control being the most intuitive to use, and the endoscope being on the other edge. All the technologies are mature enough to cope with the response concepts the participants gave us. However, when having into account the scenario context, better natural response scores may not always be the best choice for implementation. That way, simplification or reduction of tasks, along with a well tought-out interface, or even mixing more oriented paradigms for particular requests, could allow for better system control with fewer inconveniences for the user.

Characterization of water reservoirs affected by acid mine drainage: geochemical, mineralogical, and biological (diatoms) properties of the water

This work presents a combination of geochemical, mineralogical, and biological data obtained in water reservoirs located in one of the most paradigmatic mining regions, suffering from acid mine drainage (AMD) problems: the Iberian Pyrite Belt (IPB). Four water reservoirs located in the Spanish sector of the IBP, storing water for different purposes, were selected to achieve an environmental classification based on the effects of AMD: two mining dams (Gossan and Águas Ácidas), a reservoir for industrial use (Sancho), and one with water used for human supply (Andévalo). The results indicated that the four reservoirs are subject to the effect of metallic loads from polluted rivers, although with different levels: Águas Ácidas > Gossan > Sancho ≥ Andévalo. In accordance, epipsammic diatom communities have differences in the respective composition and dominant taxa. The dominant diatoms in each reservoir indicated acid water: Pinnularia acidophila and Pinnularia aljustrelica were found in the most acidic dams (Gossan and Águas Ácidas, with pH <3), Pinnularia subcapitata in Sancho (pH 2.48-5.82), and Eunotia exigua in Andévalo (pH 2.34-6.15).

Enrichment of trace elements in the clay size fraction of mining soils

Reactive waste dumps with sulfide minerals promote acid mine drainage (AMD), which results in water and soil contamination by metals and metalloids. In these systems, contamination is regulated by many factors, such as mineralogical composition of soil and the presence of sorption sites on specific mineral phases. So, the present study dedicates itself to understanding the distribution of trace elements in different size fractions (<2-mm and <2-μm fractions) of mining soils and to evaluate the relationship between chemical and mineralogical composition. Cerdeirinha and Penedono, located in Portugal, were the waste dumps under study. The results revealed that the two waste dumps have high degree of contamination by metals and arsenic and that these elements are concentrated in the clay size fraction. Hence, the higher degree of contamination by toxic elements, especially arsenic in Penedono as well as the role of clay minerals, jarosite, and goethite in retaining trace elements has management implications. Such information must be carefully thought in the rehabilitation projects to be planned for both waste dumps.

Development of a controlled release formulation by continuous twin screw granulation: Influence of process and formulation parameters

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of twin screw granulation for the continuous production of controlled release formulations with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose as hydrophilic matrix former. Metoprolol tartrate was included in the formulation as very water soluble model drug. A premix of metoprolol tartrate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and filler (ratio 20/20/60, w/w) was granulated with demineralized water via twin screw granulation. After oven drying and milling, tablets were produced on a rotary Modul™ P tablet press. A D-optimal design (29 experiments) was used to assess the influence of process (screw speed, throughput, barrel temperature and screw design) and formulation parameters (starch content of the filler) on the process (torque), granule (size distribution, shape, friability, density) and tablet (hardness, friability and dissolution) critical quality attributes. The torque was dominated by the number of kneading elements and throughput, whereas screw speed and filling degree only showed a minor influence on torque. Addition of screw mixing elements after a block of kneading elements improved the yield of the process before milling as it resulted in less oversized granules and also after milling as less fines were present. Temperature was also an important parameter to optimize as a higher temperature yielded less fines and positively influenced the aspect ratio. The shape of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose granules was comparable to that of immediate release formulations. Tensile strength and friability of tablets were not dependent on the process parameters. The use of starch as filler was not beneficial with regard to granule and tablet properties. Complete drug release was obtained after 16-20h and was independent of the design's parameters.