Browsing by Author "Silva, Joana"
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- Evaluation of behavioral and neuroprotective effects of losartan in diabetic ratsPublication . Silva, Joana; Teixeira, Fábio; Esteves-Monteiro, Marisa; Araújo, Margarida; Magalhães, AnaDiabetes is known to negatively impact the brain, leading to memory loss and attention issues [1], as well as an increased incidence of depression, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes. Recent studies indicate that angiotensin II AT1 receptor antagonists (ARAs) may reduce depressive symptoms, however, the mechanism of action is not yet fully understood [2]. The aim of the present study was to verify whether losartan, an ARA, has antidepressant and neuroprotective properties, with an emphasis on its effect on anxious behavior and cognition in type 1 diabetic rats. The study included 32 adults male Wistar rats divided into 3 groups: the Control group (non-diabetic rats), the STZ group (type 1 diabetic rats, induced by streptozotocin, 55mg/kg IP, under analgesia with tramadol 20mg/kg PO) and the STZ + LOS group (diabetic rats voluntarily orally treated with Losartan, 20mg/kg/day mixed in peanut butter, for 2 weeks). The effects on the animals' anxiety were evaluated using the Marble test and the Open field test, performed 10-13 days after diabetes induction. Statistical analysis revealed no significant changes in behavior among the control and treated groups. While no behavioral differences have been observed between control and diabetic animals, it is imperative to conduct histological studies by addressing regional brain networks to further understand and complement the observed functional analysis.
- Goji berries (Lycium barbarum) extract as new potential cosmetic ingredient – A first screeningPublication . Silva, Joana; Teixeira, Filipa; Silva, Ana M.; Vieira, Mónica; Amaral, M. Helena; Rodrigues, Francisca; Vieira, MónicaCurrently there is greater concern about appearance and skin care products. Although cosmetic products are not associated with serious health problems, there are concerns related to undesirable effects due to the presence of potentially carcinogenic and allergenic ingredients. Thus, consumers have been increasingly looking for products of natural and plant-based origin. The use of these products is expected to increase exponentially, and studies are urgently needed to introduce new products into the market. Goji berry is a fruit with increasing popularity due to its richness in phenolic compounds, carotenoids, organic acids, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Its antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer activities make this product promising for cosmetic applications. The aim of this study was to study an ecological extract obtained from goji berries through ultrasound-assisted extraction as a new ingredient incorporated into a cosmetic formulation. Goji berry extract was obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction, according to Silva et al. . To assess safety, in vitro assays were carried out on skin cell lines. Subsequently, several cosmetic formulations incorporating the extract were developed and characterized. The results demonstrated that goji berries have no toxicity on skin cell lines. Cosmetic formulations containing the goji berries extract demonstrated to be suitable for application to the skin and maintained their characteristics during the storage period. Goji berries extract is safe and stable in cosmetic formulations, proving to be suitable for consumer needs.
- O intérprete de Lingua Gestual Portuguesa: conhecer a profissão.Publication . Barbosa, Susana; Magalhães, Ana; Silva, Joana; Santos, Mónica; Freitas, Pedro; Ramos, Vanessa; Costa, VâniaCom este artigo, pretendemos ilustrar as perceções que os intérpretes de língua gestual portuguesa (LGP) reconhecem na sua atividade profissional. Como referência teórica, analisamos diversos aspetos referentes ao estágio curricular, aos dilemas profissionais, às parcerias do intérprete no contexto educativo, à interpretação para voz e às lesões músculo-esqueléticas. Para isto, realizamos inquéritos por questionário aos intérpretes de língua gestual portuguesa que se encontravam a exercer funções. Através da análise dos dados obtidos verificou-se: insuficiência de parâmetros na lei que respondam a questões relacionadas ao exercício da atividade; o trabalho de parceria entre o intérprete de LGP e os restantes membros da equipa educativa é crucial para o contributo de uma educação de qualidade para os alunos surdos; a voz, enquanto ferramenta de trabalho, deverá ser cuidada e, a sua utilização, potencializada para uma eficaz interpretação para voz; a falta de cuidados que os
- Intérprete que souPublication . Barbosa, Susana; Macedo, Vera; Silva, Joana; Branco, Susana; Tavares, Ana
- Molecularly imprinted sensor for voltammetric detection of norfloxacinPublication . Silva, Hélder da; Pacheco, João; Silva, Joana; Viswanathan, Subramanian; Delerue-Matos, CristinaIn this work, a norfloxacin selective modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) based on a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) as electrochemical sensor was developed. A suspension of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was deposited on the electrode surface. Subsequently, a molecularly imprinted film was prepared by electropolymerization, via cyclic voltammetry of pyrrole (PPy) in the presence of norfloxacin (NFX) as the template molecule. A control electrode (NIP) was also prepared. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and cyclic voltammetry in a ferrocyanide solution were performed for morphological and electrochemical characterisation, respectively. Several experimental parameters were studied and optimised. For quantification purposes the MIP/MWCNT/GCE was immersed in NFX solutions for 10 min, and the detection was performed in voltammetric cell by square wave voltammetry. The proposed sensor presented a linear behaviour, between peak current intensity and logarithmic concentration of NFX between 1 × 10−7 and 8 × 10−6 M. The obtained results presented good precision, with a repeatability of 4.3% and reproducibility of 9% and the detection limit was 4.6 × 10−8 M (S/N = 3). The developed sensor displayed good selectivity and operational lifetime, is simple to fabricate and easy to operate and was successfully applied to the analysis of NFX in urine samples.
- Noise in neonatal intensive care units: a short reviewPublication . Alberto Alves Carvalhais, Carlos; Vieira Da Silva, Manuela; Silva, Joana; Xavier, Ana; Santos, JoanaPrematurity and low birth weight of newborns lead to the need of a special care in neonatal units, and their permanence in these places can be extended for a long period. Indoor environmental conditions, such noise levels above the recommended, may induce some risks, not only for the newborns development, but also for health care staff. This literature review aims to examine the studies related to noise in neonatal intensive care units to understand the sources and effects of noise, as well as some strategies to reduce noise exposure. The search strategy included an electronic search in databases (ISI Web of Knowledge and PubMed) of scientific articles published in English/Portuguese between 2000-2017. Studies providing data on noise levels found in the neonatal units, the effects on health of newborns and staff and the measures to minimize these effects were included. The exclusion criteria were as follows: duplicate printings; nonEnglish/Portuguese language; editorials, letters, patents, errata, meeting abstracts and conference papers. PRISMA methodology was followed to perform the review. Twenty-two articles were considered for full analysis. It is important to note that some potentially relevant studies were rejected due to language criteria. It was found that the noise levels to which the newborns and staff are exposed in NICU, often exceeds the recommended levels for these spaces. Evidence also shows several adverse health effects for newborns and health care staff perceptions of noise. There is no consensus regarding the best intervention to reduce noise levels.