Search Results (12)

Background/Objectives: Peristomal skin complications (PSCs) are common among patients with ostomies, significantly impacting quality of life and increasing healthcare utilization. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Dermamecum protocol, a risk-stratified educational intervention, on the prevention of PSCs, self-care improvements, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and patient satisfaction over a 90-day follow-up period. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 305 patients stratified into three risk-based groups (green, yellow, and red paths) according to the Dermamecum protocol. Primary outcomes included PSC rates at 30, 60, and 90 days. Secondary outcomes included self-care scores, HRQoL, and patient satisfaction. Comparative analyses and trend assessments were performed across groups and time points. Temporal trends in PSCs were analyzed using Poisson regression. Results: Early PSC rates were 8.5% at 30 days, with late complications at 7.9% and 6.2% at 60 and 90 days, respectively. No significant differences in PSC rates were observed between paths. Self-care scores improved over time, with stability across groups and domains. HRQoL remained stable, with minor fluctuations in physical and mental components. Patient satisfaction was high across all paths. Poisson regression identified significant temporal trends in PSC rates, with higher risks at 30, 60, and 90 days compared to baseline. Age, BMI, and path assignment (lower risk for the green path) were significant predictors of PSCs. Conclusions: The Dermamecum protocol effectively maintained low PSC rates, supported self-care, and sustained HRQoL and patient satisfaction. These findings highlight the value of risk-stratified, patient-centered interventions in ostomy care. Further studies are needed to validate these results and explore long-term outcomes. Full article

Two concurrent assays were conducted with the objective of evaluating the bioequivalence and determining the relative bioavailability value (RBV) of L-tryptophan biomass 60% for laying hens. In both assays, L-tryptophan 98% was used as the reference source. A total of 216 hens were used in the two assays. The first assay was performed using the direct comparison method to assess bioequivalence between the sources. In the second assay, the slope ratio method was used to determine the RBV. The variables analyzed were feed intake, tryptophan intake, egg production, egg weight, daily egg mass, feed conversion ratio, feed efficiency, yolk weight, shell weight, albumen weight, albumen height, eggshell thickness, Haugh unit, body protein weight, body lipid weight, body water weight, and body ash weight. The data from both assays were submitted to analysis of variance, and we only applied linear regression to variables from the data obtained using the slope ratio method that were significant at 0.05. The results obtained via the direct comparison method showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the L-tryptophan sources when using ANOVA. In the slope ratio method, the treatments only affected the egg production and daily tryptophan intake responses of the hens and linear equations were adjusted. No differences (p > 0.05) were found for egg quality. When we applied the slope ratio in adjusted equations, we found that the RBV = 100%. The results showed that the utilization of L-tryptophan biomass 60% in the diet of laying hens was bioequivalent. Full article

This study, employing an interim analysis, investigates the effects of the Dermamecum protocol, a structured educational and tailored approach that stratifies ostomy patients into risk paths (green, yellow, red) based on pre-operative and post-operative characteristics. The green path indicates a low risk of peristomal skin complications (PSCs), focusing on sustaining healthy behaviours and basic stoma care. The yellow path represents a moderate risk, emphasizing the need for patients to self-monitor and recognize early signs of complications. The red path corresponds to high risk, requiring stringent monitoring and immediate access to healthcare support. The study aims to reduce PSCs and improve patient outcomes. Methods include the stratification of 226 patients, with significant differences in gender distribution, BMI categories, and stoma types across the paths. Results show an occurrence rate of PSCs of 5.9% in all risk paths (5.7% green path, 4.7% yellow path, and 7.9% red path, p = 0.685), significantly lower than the median rate of 35% reported in the literature. Multiple correspondence analysis validated the stratification, with distinct clusters for each path. Poisson regression models in the exploratory framework of an interim analysis identified male gender as the only significant predictor of PSCs, indicating the need for gender-specific interventions. The findings suggest that the Dermamecum protocol effectively reduces early PSCs, providing a foundation for further research. Full article

This study aimed to determine the distributions of number of shots per point, point duration, point pace and technical actions during the match in professional men and women padel players. A total of 35,145 hits (3239 points; men = 1602 and women = 1637) were analyzed in 20 matches corresponding to quarterfinal, semifinal and final matches of the World Padel Tour 2020 season. The observations were conducted through systematic observation and involved a total of 32 players (16 men and 16 women). Men’s points lasted 13.5–14.8 s, comprising 10–11 hits, resulting in a ratio of 0.80 shots per second, with no differences between sets. Women’s points lasted longer than men’s (14.4 to 16.2 s, p = 0.011) but included a similar number of shots per point, resulting in a lower rhythm of play (0.73–0.75 shots per second, p < 0.001), particularly in the third set (p = 0.004). Volleys, lobs and directs were used in >60% of the points, with a frequency of one to three times per point. Bandejas were used in 50–60% of the points, with a frequency of one to two times per point. Backwalls and flat smashes were used at least once in 30–48% of the points. Selective actions had a greater frequency of use in the third set (i.e., flat smash and smash x3 in women; forehand/backhand volleys and side-wall forehand in men), suggesting occasional changes in the style of play, but likely explained by the onset of fatigue. In conclusion, game volumes, intensity and actions remained broadly similar throughout professional padel matches. Full article

The contamination of ecosystems in areas around waste dumps is a major threat to the health of surrounding populations. The aim of this study is to understand the contribution of the Hulene-B waste dump (Maputo, Mozambique) to the contamination of edible plants, rhizosphere soils, stream waters, and groundwater, and to assess human health risk. Soil and plant samples were analyzed by XRD and XRF for mineralogical and chemical composition characterization, respectively. Mineral phases identified in rhizosphere soil samples were ranked, calcite (CaCO₃) > quartz (SiO₂) > phyllosilicates (micas and kaolinite) > anhydrite (CaSO₄) > K feldspar (KAlSi₃O₈) > opal (SiO₂·nH₂O) > gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O), suggesting potential toxic elements low mobility. Soil environmental indices showed pollution by Pb > Cu > Zn > Zr. The chemical composition of edible plants revealed contamination by Ni, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ti, and Zr. Groundwaters and stream waters showed a potential health risk by Hg and, in one irrigation water sample, by Pb content. The health hazard index of rhizosphere soils was higher by ingestion, with children being the ones more exposed. Results suggested a combined health risk by exposure to edible plants, rhizosphere soils, stream waters, and groundwaters. Full article

Soil contamination in areas close to unplanned dumpsites represents an increasing risk to the ecosystems and human health. This study aimed to evaluate soil quality in the area surrounding the Hulene-B waste dump, Maputo, Mozambique, and to estimate potential ecological and human health risks. A total of 71 surface soil samples were collected in the surrounding area of the dump, along with 10 samples in areas considered not impacted by the dump. Chemical and mineralogical analyses were performed using XRF and XRD. Quartz was the most abundant mineral phase, followed by feldspars, carbonates, clay minerals, and Fe oxides/hydroxides. Results showed a significant contribution to ecological degradation by PTE enrichment, ranked as Zn >> Cu > Cr > Zr > Pb > Ni > Mn. Carcinogenic risk for both children and adults was significant due to Pb soil content. Soil sample concentrations of Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Zr, posing a risk especially in children, suggested the need for continuous monitoring, as well as the definition and implementation of mitigation measures. Full article

Our effort in SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in Brazil has detected the Alpha Variant of Concern with a predominance higher than 75% in the population of Ilhabela island (São Paulo State) at a time when the Gamma VOC was already predominating the mainland raised concerns for closer surveillance on this island. Therefore, we intensified the surveillance for 24 weeks by generating data from 34% of local positive cases. Our data show that the patterns of VOC predominance dynamics and infection rates were in general distinct from the mainland. We report here the first known case of Alpha predominance in a Brazilian population, a delay greater than 3 months for the Gamma to dominate the previous variants compared to the mainland, and a faster dispersion rate of Gamma and Delta VOCs compared to the mainland. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Ilhabela were characterized by multiple independent introduction events of Gamma and Delta, with a few events of Alpha introduction, two of them followed by community transmission. This study evidenced the peculiar behavior of SARS-CoV-2 variants in an isolated population and brought to light the importance of specific programs for SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in isolated populations. Full article

In this study, electrical resistivity was applied in six 400 m profiles around the Hulene-B waste dump (Mozambique). Afterwards, an inversion was performed by RES2Dinv. The use of the electrical resistivity method allowed us to characterize in detail some underlying aspects of the DRASTIC index by identifying anomalous zones considered to be permeable and prone to leachate migration. The modified DRASTIC index revealed high values in areas near contaminated surface groundwater and surface layers of the vadose zone, characterized by low resistivities. Areas with lower index results were characterized by high resistivity on surface layers and high depth at which groundwater was detected. The overall modified DRASTIC index result revealed medium vulnerability. However, high vulnerability index values were detected in areas with higher surface elevation, suggesting groundwater contamination by horizontal dilution of leachates from the surrounding area of the Hulene-B waste dump. Full article

This study aims to characterize and estimate risk assessment associated with geophagic materials consumption in Maputo city (Mozambique). Samples were collected in extraction mines, unprepared and prepared ones, and in Maputo markets. Fractions < 2 mm (total consumed material) and <63 μm were analyzed to determine pH, EC, OM, chemical composition (XRF), and mineral phases present (XRD). The results revealed pH from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, and electrical conductivity ranging from 13 to 47 μS/cm in mine unprepared and prepared samples, while 264–465 μS/cm in sampled sold in markets. Organic matter content was <2.76%, except in one sample (8.14%), suggesting a potential risk of containing bacteria. Textural analysis revealed that sand-size particles were more representative in all samples (57.2–93.02%). Mineralogical phases identified in the consumed sample were ranked quartz (>60%) > Fe oxides/hidroxides > phyllosilicates (micas and kaolinite) > feldspars, suggesting a risk of dental enamel damage and perforation of the sigmoid colon. The chemical concentration of some elements was higher than recommended daily dose, suggesting a potential risk. However, geophagic materials’ chemical composition does not pose a carcinogenic risk. Full article

Although Aerial Vehicle images are a viable tool for observing large-scale patterns of fires and their impacts, its application is limited by the complex optical georeferencing procedure due to the lack of distinctive visual features in forest environments. For this reason, an exploratory study on rough and flat terrains was conducted to use and validate the Iterative Ray-Tracing method in combination with a Bearings-Range Extended Kalman Filter as a real-time forest fire georeferencing and filtering algorithm on images captured by an aerial vehicle. The Iterative Ray-Tracing method requires a vehicle equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS), an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), a calibrated camera, and a Digital Elevation Map (DEM). The proposed method receives the real-time input of the GPS, IMU, and the image coordinates of the pixels to georeference (computed by a companion algorithm of fire front detection) and outputs the geographical coordinates corresponding to those pixels. The Unscented Transform B is proposed to characterize the Iterative Ray-Tracing uncertainty. A Bearings-Range filter measurement model is introduced in a sequential filtering architecture to reduce the noise in the measurements, assuming static targets. A performance comparison is done between the Bearings-Only and the Bearings-Range observation models, and between the Extended and Cubature Kalman Filters. In simulation studies with ground truth, without filtering we obtained a georeferencing Root Mean Squared Errors (RMSE) of 30.7 and 43.4 m for the rough and flat terrains respectively, while filtering with the proposed Bearings-Range Extended Kalman Filter showed the best results by reducing the previous RMSE to 11.7 and 19.8 m, respectively. In addition, the comparison of both filter algorithms showed a good performance of Bearings-Range filter which was slightly faster. Indeed, these experiments based on the real data conducted to results demonstrated the applicability of the proposed methodology for the real-time georeferencing forest fires. Full article

The contamination of areas around solid urban waste dumps is a global challenge for the maintenance of environmental quality in large urban centres in developing countries. This study applied a geophysical method (electrical resistivity) to identify leachate contamination plumes in the subsoil and groundwater, as well as to describe their temporal dynamics (2020 and 2021) in the surroundings of the Hulene-B waste dump, Maputo, Mozambique. Eight 400 m electrical resistivity profiles were performed, four profiles in January 2020 and four profiles in May 2021 overlapped, and the data were inverted with RES2D software. The electrical resistivity models predominantly indicate an E-W movement of large contamination plumes that are successively diluted with saturated media and groundwater, creating zones of less resistive anomalies (<4.2–8.5 Ω·m) possibly contaminated at the two analysed seasons, between 2020–2021. The thickness of the contamination plumes was higher in summer (2020) for profiles 1 and 2, and we associate it with the production and migration mechanisms of leachate that are intense in the hot and rainy season. Southwest of the dump, profile 4b showed the propagation of anomalous areas on the surface and at depth, which are associated with the production of leachate resulting from the continuous decomposition of waste that is continuously deposited in a new area southwest of the dump, thus generating a slow and continuous migration of leachate at depth, mainly in winter (2021). The spatial distribution of contamination plumes during both seasons was reduced significantly farther away from the waste deposit, revealing the attenuating effect of groundwater and lithological substrate (Profile 3). Full article

The ability of keeping a record of geospatial information, knowing how it changed over time, is crucial for landscape analysis and territorial government. Land management is still a problem. Many governmental databases are incomplete, and there is a lack of reliable information. Good land management implies having a tool that can keep track of all the information available about a certain property and its changes over time. In this paper, we propose a land management tool where managers access all the information on a certain parcel of land—its boundaries, the land registration, a map which verifies the landcover, and the historic of updates of territorial limits. With the proposed tool, it is possible to edit the information of any property, whether it is active or not—that is, to also edit properties that no longer exist today, but that the user wants to add information to, for legal or other reasons. Keeping track of data properties’ revision history is groundbreaking due to the fact it is not well developed in existing tools. We will look at Brazil as a use case, where land management is a critical problem. Full article