Analysis of the occurrence of microplastics in beach sand on the Brazilian coast.

The occurrence of microplastics in coastal areas is a growing concern due to the increase in plastic waste pollution in recent decades. This study had as objective to evaluate the occurrence of microplastics in Brazilian beach sand, using a simple and fast methodology. In addition, possible microplastics were classified according to color, shape and chemical composition.

Assessing the presence of endocrine disruptors and markers of anthropogenic activity in a water supply system in northeastern Brazil.

Several chemical substances known as micropollutants are used in daily activities, and they pose risks to both human health and the environment. Some of these substances disrupt the endocrine system in addition to being responsible for major public health issues and for endangering some aquatic species. The aim of this research is to investigate the frequency of endocrine disruptors and anthropogenic activity markers in a Water Supply System (SAA) in Sergipe State, Brazil.

Temporal and spatial occlusion of advanced visual information constrains movement (re)organization in one-handed catching behaviors.

Dynamic interceptive actions are performed under severe spatial and temporal constraints. Here, behavioral processes underpinning anticipation in one-handed catching were examined using novel technology to implement a spatial and temporal occlusion design. Video footage of an actor throwing a ball was manipulated to create four temporal and five spatial occlusion conditions.

Sheffield Hallam Staff Wellness service: Four-year follow-up of the impact on health indicators.

Aims: Alongside the increasing prevalence of chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes has been an increase in interventions to reverse these ill-health trends. The aim of this study was to examine the longitudinal impact of the Sheffield Hallam University Staff Wellness Service on health indicators over a five-year period.

Methods: The Sheffield Hallam Staff Wellness Service was advertised to university employees.

(De)synchronization of advanced visual information and ball flight characteristics constrains emergent information-movement couplings during one-handed catching.

Advance visual information of a projection action and ball flight information is important for organizing dynamic interceptive actions like catching. However, how the central nervous system (CNS) manages the relationship between advance visual information and emerging ball flight information in regulating behavior is less well understood. Here, we sought to examine the extent that advance visual information to the CNS constrains regulation of catching actions by synchronizing and desynchronizing its relationship with ball trajectory characteristics.