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Diseases such as anthracnose (Colletotrichum lindemuthianum) and angular leaf spot (Pseudocercospora griseola) can occur in common bean and compromise crop production, especially if susceptible cultivars are grown under conditions favorable to these diseases. The most efficient and sustainable alternative for controlling these diseases is the use of resistant cultivars. The identification of sources of resistance and the use of tools that assist in accurate selection of resistant cultivars are crucial to the success of breeding programs. The aim of this study was to characterize 67 carioca common bean cultivars recommended in Brazil regarding reaction to races 65, 73, 81, and 89 of C. lindemuthianum and to races 63‐23 and 63‐63 of P. griseola and to verify the application of factor analysis in the selection of cultivars resistant to both pathogens. The cultivars and resistant controls BRS Esplendor and MAIII.16‐159 were inoculated in a greenhouse in two experiments for each race. Cultivars were assessed for resistance to multiple races of anthracnose and angular leaf spot using artificial inoculation of plants at V2 stage. Factor analysis proved to be a good alternative for accurate selection of resistant cultivars. The percentage of cultivars simultaneously resistant to all races was low (8.95%). The cultivars Rudá R, VC 15, IAC‐Apuã, IAC‐Carioca Pyatã, BRSMG Amuleto, and BRS FC104 selected by factor analysis showed resistance to anthracnose and angular leaf spot. Therefore, these cultivars are potential sources of resistance for incorporation in bean breeding programs. Core Ideas: Tools for selecting resistant lines are crucial for the success in breeding programs aiming resistance.Factor analysis proved to be an alternative for accurate selection of resistant cultivars.Six cultivars were selected by factor analysis as resistant to anthracnose and angular leaf spot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The potential health benefits of exposure to vegetation, or greenness, are well documented, but there are few nationwide studies in Brazil, a country facing challenges related to land-use planning, deforestation, and environmental health risks. OBJECTIVES: In this study, we investigated the association between greenness and hospitalizations for cardiorespiratory diseases in Brazil. METHODS: We accessed hospital admissions data from 967,771 postal codes (a total of 26,724,624 admissions) covering Brazil for the period between 2008 and 2018. We used Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) to measure greenness at the postal-code level. First, we applied a quasi-Poisson regression model to estimate the association between greenness and hospitalizations for circulatory and respiratory diseases, adjusted for air pollution, weather variables, and area-level socioeconomic status. We stratified the analyzes by sex, age group, health outcome, and Brazilian regions. In the second stage, we performed a meta-analysis to estimate pooled effects across the Brazilian regions. RESULTS: The national meta-analysis for the whole population, incorporating both urban and nonurban areas, showed that higher levels of greenness were associated with a lower risk of hospitalizations for circulatory diseases. An interquartile range (IQR=0.18) increase in average NDVI was associated with a 17% (95% confidence interval: 8%, 27%) lower risk of cardiovascular admissions. In contrast, there was no association found between greenness and respiratory admissions. When specifically examining urban areas, the results remained consistent with the overall findings. However, the analyses of nonurban areas revealed divergent results, suggesting that higher levels of greenness in rural regions are associated with a lower risk of hospital admissions for both circulatory and respiratory diseases. DISCUSSION: The findings emphasize the importance of prioritizing the preservation and creation of green spaces in urban areas as a means of promoting cardiovascular health in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to estimate the minimum number of plants required per plot to assess the anthracnose severity by artificial inoculation of V2 stage plants. Seventy-eight carioca common bean cultivars were inoculated in 13 experiments to assess its reaction to races 65, 73, 81, and 89 of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. Sample sizes ranged from one to nine plants were adopted to setting the number of plants per plot. A total of 1000 samplings were performed for each sample size. The following parameters were estimated in each sampling: accuracy, coefficient of variation and Pearson's correlation. The mean values of each parameter in the 1000 samplings for each sample size were subjected to quadratic regression with a plateau as a function of sample size for each experiment. Six plants per plot were needed to assess the severity of anthracnose by artificially inoculating the pathogen on common bean plants at the V2 stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution is a problem present in all socio-spatial contexts, affecting millions of people annually around the world. Intense urbanization and socio-environmental risks are linked to mortality from cardiorespiratory diseases aggravated by atypical contexts, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Using mortality data from the Ministry of Health and atmospheric pollutants, we sought to identify the relationship between exposure to air pollution and deaths from COVID-19 in the Northern region of Brazil. The negative binomial mixed statistical model, with zero inflation (ZINB), was used for deaths from Covid-19 at the municipal level as a stage, and for the long-term average, atmospheric emissions (PM2,5, NO2, and O3). Included in the model are control variables, such as harmful, demographic, and health equipment variables. The results showed a positive association between deaths from COVID-19 and particulate matter (PM2,5) with an increase of around 1.15 µg/m³, as well as for the bipollutant models (O3 and NO2) and (PM2,5 and O3). The general analysis confirms the increase in atmospheric emissions without worsening and consequent mortality from COVID-19 for all municipalities in the Northern Region. The context also linked to low education, low income, low supply of beds and health professionals, goes back to the existing spatial selectivity, mainly for vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common bean anthracnose is one of the main fungal diseases that affect the crop. The disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, anamorph, which has wide variability as well as its teleomorph. Sexual reproduction is the main mechanism of increasing genetic variability in fungi, therefore the study of morphological characteristics and their sexual structures are important. Homothallic strains of the pathogen have shown the production of new ascospores via mitosis after the sexual cycle. As a result of each mitotic division there are two ascospores with amygdaliform and/or allantoid morphology. In this work the characterization of this phenomenon is described as budding. This is the first report on the occurrence of ascospore budding in the genus Colletotrichum. The homothallic strain UFLA84‐1 was used. Analyses of light microscopy, fluorescence and high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy were used for the description of the budding process. Cytological analyses were carried out to estimate the dimension of ascospores, budding percentage and colony type. The budding cycle is described in six stages, and the complete process develops after the release of all ascospores from an ascus. The ascospores from this process can present both morphologies and bud growth can be apical or lateral. Sexual reproduction is a mechanism of genetic recombination and the budding process increases the number of ascospores generated by meiosis and may therefore represent an adaptive advantage of the pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to evaluate the protein and carbohydrate fractionation of forage plants of the Urochloa spp. and Megathyrsus maximus after intercropping with soybean in crop-livestock integration, in the off-season. The experimental design used was entirely randomised, with four repetitions, in a 4 × 5 factorial scheme. The treatments consisted of four forages: Xaraes palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés), Ruziziensis grass (Urochloa ruziziensis), Mombaça guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombaça), Tamani guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. BRS Tamani) and five grazing cycles (each grazing cycle was carried out every 28 days). Forage samples and protein and carbohydrate fractionation were obtained using destructive methods. The results showed that Tamani guinea grass and Xaraes palisadegrass presented higher fractions A of protein and carbohydrates and lower fraction C, being more suitable for integrated systems during the offseason. For all forages, there was a reduction in the protein and carbohydrate A fractions and an increase in the C fraction as grazing cycles advanced. Tamani guinea grass and Xaraes palisadegrass showed the best potential to be used for grazing in the off-season, by being planted as a replacement for soybean, and can be an alternative of quality food to be fed during the dry season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the education city as a model of a city conducive to participatory democratic management. In the geopolitical and educational context, it deals with the revision of the Master Plan in the municipality of Porto Velho (Rondônia), understanding that the Master Plan can be an important instrument for Education and citizenship, in the sense of having a participatory population, aware of its role as a transformer of the city where they live. The approach is qualitative, with a bibliographic, documentary and action-research procedure, carried out through data collection and participation in audiences and community reading workshops. It was concluded that the revision process of Porto Velho’s Master Plan, in the period 2018 and 2019, in addition to the aspects related to economic, social, cultural development, dealt with the relations between population and municipal management through the communicative process foreseen in the education city model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Postoperative cystoid macular edema (PCME) is a complication of several ocular procedures, including pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), due to the activation of the inflammatory cascade. The purpose of this case series is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant (FAc, 0.2 μg/day; ILUVIEN®) in the treatment of refractory PCME after successful PPV. Methods: This retrospective observational case series includes consecutive eyes of patients with recurrent PCME after PPV and treated with a single FAc implant at Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal. Previous treatments, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, ETDRS letters), central macular thickness (CMT, μm), intraocular pressure (IOP, mmHg), and IOP-lowering medication needed were recorded at baseline and during follow-up. Total macular edema resolution was defined as CMT less than 300 μm or a reduction of greater than 20%, and partial macular edema resolution was defined as a reduction of greater than 10%. Results: Nine eyes from nine patients were included. Before FAc implant, all eyes received intravitreal short-action corticosteroids (triamcinolone and dexamethasone implant), with a good response but relapse 1–5 months later. At baseline, BCVA was 55.0 ± 10.6 letters, CMT was 514.9 ± 165.6 μm, and IOP was 15.4 ± 2.4 mmHg with four eyes under IOP-lowering medication. After FAc implant, all eyes achieved edema resolution (eight total and one partial) with a peak gain of 17.2 letters and a maximum decrease of 208.2 μm in CMT. During follow-up (44.0 ± 14.8 months), 66.7% of the eyes kept their macula dry and three showed recurrence after 11, 14, and 28 months, respectively. The maximum IOP registered was 17.0 ± 6.0 mmHg. IOP-lowering regimen was increased in one eye and two additional eyes started hypotensive drops. Conclusion: FAc implant can be considered a therapeutic alternative in PCME refractory to other therapies in vitrectomized eyes, reducing the need for repeated treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to characterize the clinical presentation, management strategy and visual outcomes of patients diagnosed with Terson syndrome and followed in a tertiary centre in Portugal. Patients and Methods: A single-centre retrospective study was performed, based on the survey review of the medical records of every consecutive patient diagnosed with Terson syndrome and followed from January 2018 to August 2021. The change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline to the final evaluation was the primary outcome. Results: Fifteen eyes from 8 patients (50% female) were included. The mean age at diagnosis was 55± 7 years. The neurological event was traumatic brain injury in 37.5% (n=3) and subarachnoid haemorrhage in 62.5% of the patients (n=5). Bilateral intraocular haemorrhage occurred in 875% (n=7) of the patients. Vitreous and preretinal haemorrhages occurred each in 66.7% (n=10), intraretinal in 30% (n=3) and subretinal in 13.3% (n=2) of the eyes. In 40% of the eyes (n=6), spontaneous resolution of intraocular haemorrhage occurred, while PPV was performed in the remaining 60% (n=9). Ocular haemorrhage detection occurred 58.47 ± 40.94 days after the neurological event (range 11 to 121 days). Baseline BCVA was 1.11 ± 1.01 logMAR and improved to 0.32 ± 0.69 logMAR in the follow-up period (p=0.004). A positive correlation was found between initial and final BCVA (Spearman's rho = 0.643, p=0.01). Baseline BCVA of eyes undergoing PPV was lower than of those conservatively managed (1.84± 0.72 vs 0.20± 0.28 logMAR, p< 0.001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in final BCVA after surgery or observation (0.56 ± 0.90 vs 0.04 ± 0.04 logMAR, p=0.149). Longer periods between the neurological and the ophthalmological diagnosis were correlated with worse final BCVA (Spearman's rho = 0.688, p=0.005). Conclusion: Terson syndrome is a potential cause of irreversible visual loss. Diagnosis delay may affect visual prognosis. PPV is indicated when intraocular haemorrhage is dense and does not resolve spontaneously or when visual acuity at presentation is low, allowing for good visual outcomes with minimal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cumulative fatigue during repetitive work is associated with occupational risk and productivity reduction. Usually, subjective measures or muscle activity are used for a cumulative evaluation; however, Industry 4.0 wearables allow overcoming the challenges observed in those methods. Thus, the aim of this study is to analyze alterations in respiratory inductance plethysmography (RIP) to measure the asynchrony between thorax and abdomen walls during repetitive work and its relationship with local fatigue. A total of 22 healthy participants (age: 27.0 ± 8.3 yrs; height: 1.72 ± 0.09 m; mass: 63.4 ± 12.9 kg) were recruited to perform a task that includes grabbing, moving, and placing a box in an upper and lower shelf. This task was repeated for 10 min in three trials with a fatigue protocol between them. Significant main effects were found from Baseline trial to the Fatigue trials (p < 0.001) for both RIP correlation and phase synchrony. Similar results were found for the activation amplitude of agonist muscle (p < 0.001), and to the muscle acting mainly as a joint stabilizer (p < 0.001). The latter showed a significant effect in predicting both RIP correlation and phase synchronization. Both RIP correlation and phase synchronization can be used for an overall fatigue assessment during repetitive work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep eutectic solvents (DES), a green solvent class, are of interest for the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, are composed of a hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA), usually a quaternary ammonium salt, and one or more hydrogen bond donors (HBD). The physicochemical properties of the DES depend on the type and proportion of their constituents. In this work, DES composed of choline chloride, as HBA, and polyols (glycerol, ethylene glycol, or 1,2-propanediol), as HBD, were obtained at three different molar ratios. The DES' physical properties, namely: density, viscosity, and speed of sound, were measured at different temperatures (from 298.15 to 353.15 K). The temperature and HDB chain size effects on these properties were evaluated. Lastly, the proposed DES were assessed as a potential vehicle for processing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The DES properties are demonstrated to be dependent on both temperature and HBD nature. Applying to API processing, the proposed DES significantly increased the APIs solubility compared to the pure water and promoted the separation/purification of these compounds in aqueous biphasic systems (ABS). The solubility and partition assays were supported by the in silico tool COSMO-SAC model (conductor-like screening model for real solvent segment activity coefficient). Finally, the results suggest the necessity to know the solvent's physical properties of interest and the versatility and applicability of the DES on the pharmaceuticals industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Canga is the Brazilian term for the savanna-like vegetation harboring several endemic species on iron-rich rocky outcrops, usually considered for mining activities. Parkia platycephala Benth. and Stryphnodendron pulcherrimum (Willd.) Hochr. naturally occur in the cangas of Serra dos Carajás (eastern Amazonia, Brazil) and the surrounding forest, indicating high phenotypic plasticity. The morphological and physiological mechanisms of the plants' establishment in the canga environment are well studied, but the molecular adaptative responses are still unknown. To understand these adaptative responses, we aimed to identify molecular mechanisms that allow the establishment of these plants in the canga environment. Results: Plants were grown in canga and forest substrates collected in the Carajás Mineral Province. RNA was extracted from pooled leaf tissue, and RNA-seq paired-end reads were assembled into representative transcriptomes for P. platycephala and S. pulcherrimum containing 31,728 and 31,311 primary transcripts, respectively. We identified both species-specific and core molecular responses in plants grown in the canga substrate using differential expression analyses. In the species-specific analysis, we identified 1,112 and 838 differentially expressed genes for P. platycephala and S. pulcherrimum, respectively. Enrichment analyses showed that unique biological processes and metabolic pathways were affected for each species. Comparative differential expression analysis was based on shared single-copy orthologs. The overall pattern of ortholog expression was species-specific. Even so, we identified almost 300 altered genes between plants in canga and forest substrates with conserved responses in the two species. The genes were functionally associated with the response to light stimulus and the circadian rhythm pathway. Conclusions: Plants possess species-specific adaptative responses to cope with the substrates. Our results also suggest that plants adapted to both canga and forest environments can adjust the circadian rhythm in a substrate-dependent manner. The circadian clock gene modulation might be a central mechanism regulating the plants' development in the canga substrate in the studied legume species. The mechanism may be shared as a common mechanism to abiotic stress compensation in other native species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and leads to progressive vision loss. The first pathological signs can be seen at the optic nerve head (ONH), the structure where RGC axons leave the retina to compose the optic nerve. Besides damage of the axonal cytoskeleton, axonal transport deficits at the ONH have been described as an important feature of glaucoma. Axonal transport is essential for proper neuronal function, including transport of organelles, synaptic components, vesicles, and neurotrophic factors. Impairment of axonal transport has been related to several neurodegenerative conditions. Studies on axonal transport in glaucoma include analysis in different animal models and in humans, and indicate that its failure happens mainly in the ONH and early in disease progression, preceding axonal and somal degeneration. Thus, a better understanding of the role of axonal transport in glaucoma is not only pivotal to decipher disease mechanisms but could also enable early therapies that might prevent irreversible neuronal damage at an early time point. In this review we present the current evidence of axonal transport impairment in glaucomatous neurodegeneration and summarize the methods employed to evaluate transport in this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. "In-the-bag" placement of an IOL is the Holy Grail for any cataract surgeon. However, in the absence of capsular integrity, alternative surgical options to place the IOL must be sought. We aim to report the clinical outcomes and safety profile of scleral-fixated Akreos AO60 intraocular lens implantation using Gore-Tex suture, combined with pars plana vitrectomy. Methods. This is a single-center, retrospective case series descriptive study. Electronic clinical records of all patients subjected to scleral fixation of a Bausch and Lomb Akreos AO60 IOL combined with pars plana vitrectomy, between April 1, 2017, and August 1, 2021, were reviewed. Data concerning age, sex, laterality, past ophthalmological history, pre- and postoperative best-available visual acuity, surgical indication, and intra- and postoperative complications were collected. Measured outcomes were the differences in best-available visual acuity and frequency of postoperative complications. Results. A total of 37 eyes (20 right eyes and 17 left eyes) from 36 patients (16 females and 20 males) were included in the statistical analysis. The mean age at time of surgery was 72.0 ± 12.4 years. The mean follow-up period was 548.9 days (range 39–1564 days). Globally, the mean best-available logMAR visual acuity improved from 1.61 preoperatively (0.025 decimal equivalent) to 0.57 postoperatively (0.3 decimal equivalent), this difference being statistically significant (P < 0.001). Indications for surgery included aphakia due to complicated cataract surgery (24.3%; n = 9); subluxated IOL due to closed trauma (21.6%; n = 8); PEX-related subluxated IOL (16.2%; n = 6); non-traumatic, non-PEX-related subluxated IOL (18.9%; n = 7); subluxated crystalline lens due to closed trauma (8.1%; n = 3); aphakia due to open-globe injury (5.4%; n = 2); silicone-induced IOL opacification (2.7%; n = 1); and aphakia post-endophthalmitis (2.7%; n = 1). Postoperative complications included transient ocular hypertension (27.0%; n = 10), transient corneal edema (18.9%; n = 7), cystoid macular edema (18.9%, n = 7), self-limited hypotension (5.4%, n = 2), self-limited vitreous hemorrhage (2.7%, n = 1), central retinal vein occlusion (2.7%, n = 1), late retinal detachment (2.7%, n = 1), and Akreos IOL opacification (2.7%, n = 1). No suture-related complications were observed. Conclusion. There was a statistically significant improvement in visual acuity after scleral fixation of Akreos AO60 intraocular lens using Gore-Tex suture, with no suture-related problems recorded. This procedure seems to be a valuable alternative for posterior chamber IOL placement when secondary IOL implantation is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To describe a "triple" surgical procedure, which combined traumatic cataract extraction by phacoemulsification with gas endotamponade and cyclocryotherapy in the successful treatment of a traumatic cyclodialysis cleft. Methods: A 44-year-old man who suffered severe left eye blunt trauma with an elastic band developed a 4-hour extent cyclodialysis cleft with consequent hypotony. After 7 weeks of persistent hypotonic maculopathy unresponsive to medical treatment, and with an evolving traumatic cataract, the patient underwent cataract surgery combined with intravitreal gas endotamponade (20% SF6) and cyclocryotherapy. Results: Two weeks after the procedure the intraocular pressure increased to 12 mmHg and remained steady during the next 14 months of follow-up. Hypotonic maculopathy resolved and successful closure of the cyclodialysis cleft was confirmed by gonioscopy and ultrasound biomicroscopy. Conclusion: Gas endotamponade and cyclocryotherapy constitute a promising option in the treatment of cyclodialysis clefts unresponsive to medical therapy. In our case, this minimally invasive technique was innovatively combined with cataract surgery. Despite early postoperative intraocular inflammation, a successful outcome was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the late 1970s, prone positioning was established as an efficient treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Currently, with the world facing a global health crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become an accepted routine practice in intensive care units dealing with critically ill COVID-19 patients. Ophthalmic complications associated with the prone position are not a novelty in clinical practice. Indeed, it is estimated that in patients undergoing spine surgery, prone positioning carries a tenfold increased risk of eye injury when compared to supine and lateral positioning. The majority of these complications are treatable ocular surface disorders, but irreversible sight-threatening conditions also occur. We report a unique and dramatic case of a ruptured globe in a COVID-19 patient placed in prolonged prone position, emphasizing its difficult diagnosis and management while focusing on life-saving support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the adversities caused by the recent experience of the Covid-19 pandemic, the purpose of this article is to discuss the absence of the samba school parades in Rio de Janeiro based on the experience of an internet transmission during carnival days, in February 2021. When analyzing a Youtube channel called “Boi com Abobora”, which uses images from ancient carnivals to broadcast in the present time, the work discusses notions of nostalgia and memory. The shuffling of narratives, new cuts and a suppression of contemporary time cross this object, which make us think about cultural identity as a link to the social collective, or the creation of a sense of belonging. As a methodology, we empirically explain the object, how the transmission was carried out and its characteristics, to then discuss how this experience alleviates the damage caused by the social distancing caused by the pandemic. Such activity leads us to present, among the results, a reflection on the impacts and transformations of culture, even when popular demonstrations were apparently suspended. Thus, it is concluded that cultural forces, in times of pandemic crisis, remain in their maximum tone, that of making themselves present as a form of link and social belonging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diclofenac (DCF) and ibuprofen (IBU) are pharmaceutical compounds frequently detected in aquatic compartments worldwide. Several hazard effects including developmental abnormalities and redox balance impairment have been elucidated in aquatic species, but multiple endocrine evaluations are scarce. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the disruptive physiological effects and toxicity of DCF and IBU isolated and combined, using females of the native freshwater teleost Astyanax lacustris. In regards to NSAIDs bioavailability, the results showed absence of degradation of IBU and DCF after 7 days of exposure. IBU LC 50 for A. lacustris was 137 mgL−1 and females exposed to IBU isolated increased thyroxine (T 4) concentration at 24 h and decreased after 96 h; DCF exposure decreased triiodothyronine (T3) concentration at 96 h. Circulating levels of 17β-estradiol (E 2), cortisol (F) and testosterone (T) were not affected by any treatment. HPG and HPI axis genes fshβ , pomc and vtg were upregulated after 24 h of IBU exposure, and dio2 was downregulated in DCF fish exposed group after 96 h compared to the mixture. Protein concentration was reduced in muscle and increased in the liver by DCF and mixtures exposures at 24 h; while liver lipids were increased in the mixture groups after 96 h. The study point out the capacity of NSAIDs to affect endocrine endpoints in A. lacustris females and induce changes in energetic substrate content after acute exposure to isolated and mixed NSAIDs treatments. Lastly, the present investigation brings new insights into the toxicity and endocrine disruptive activity of NSAIDs in Latin America teleost species and the aquatic environment. [Display omitted] • IBU and DCF alter pituitary, liver and thyroid functioning of A. lacustris females. • DCF decreases thyroid hormone levels, alters dio2 gene expression and energetic substrates. • IBU increases thyroid hormones and changes pomc , fshb and vtg gene expression. • NSAIDs mixture induce metabolic disruption when compared to NSAIDs isolated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) are the safest and most effective gene delivery platform to drive the treatment of many inherited eye disorders in well-characterized animal models. The use in rAAV of ubiquitous promoters derived from viral sequences such as CMV/CBA (chicken β-actin promoter with cytomegalovirus enhancer) can lead to unwanted side effects such as pro-inflammatory immune responses and retinal cytotoxicity, thus reducing therapy efficacy. Thus, an advance in gene therapy is the availability of small promoters, that potentiate and direct gene expression to the cell type of interest, with higher safety and efficacy. In this study, we used six human mini-promoters packaged in rAAV2 quadruple mutant (Y–F) to test for transduction of the rat retina after intravitreal injection. After four weeks, immunohistochemical analysis detected GFP-labeled cells in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) for all constructs tested. Among them, Ple25sh1, Ple25sh2 and Ple53 promoted a widespread reporter-transgene expression in the GCL, with an increased number of GFP-expressing retinal ganglion cells when compared with the CMV/CBA vector. Moreover, Ple53 provided the strongest levels of GFP fluorescence in both cell soma and axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) without any detectable adverse effects in retina function. Remarkably, a nearly 50-fold reduction in the number of intravitreally injected vector particles containing Ple53 promoter, still attained levels of transgene expression similar to CMV/CBA. Thus, the tested MiniPs show great potential for protocols of retinal gene therapy in therapeutic applications for retinal degenerations, especially those involving RGC-related disorders such as glaucoma. • Intravitreal injection in rats does not lead to homogenous transduction of GCL by rAAV. • Mini promoters efficiently drive transgene expression at GCL, particularly in RGCs. • Widespread GCL transduction is achieved with Ple25sh1, Ple25sh2, and Ple53 promoters. • The dose reduction regime of rAAV2quadmut-Ple53 attains robust transgene expression at GCL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The migration of activated T cells across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a critical step in central nervous system (CNS) immune surveillance and inflammation. Whereas T cell diapedesis across the intact BBB seems to occur preferentially through the BBB cellular junctions, impaired BBB integrity during neuroinflammation is accompanied by increased transcellular T cell diapedesis. The underlying mechanisms directing T cells to paracellular versus transcellular sites of diapedesis across the BBB remain to be explored. By combining in vitro live-cell imaging of T cell migration across primary mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells (pMBMECs) under physiological flow with serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM), we have identified BBB tricellular junctions as novel sites for T cell diapedesis across the BBB. Downregulated expression of tricellular junctional proteins or proteinbased targeting of their interactions in pMBMECmonolayers correlated with enhanced transcellular T cell diapedesis, and abluminal presence of chemokines increased T cell diapedesis through tricellular junctions. Our observations assign an entirely novel role to BBB tricellular junctions in regulating T cell entry into the CNS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overweight and obesity are a worldwide public health problem. Obesity prevalence has increased considerably, which indicates the need for more studies to better understand these diseases and related complications. Diet induced-obesity (DIO) animal models can reproduce human overweight and obesity, and there are many protocols used to lead to excess fat deposition. So, the purpose of this review was to identify the key points for the induction of obesity through diet, as well as identifying which are the necessary endpoints to be achieved when inducing fat gain. For this, we reviewed the literature in the last 6 years, looking for original articles that aimed to induce obesity through the diet. All articles evaluated should have a control group, in order to verify the results found, and had worked with Sprague–Dawley and Wistar rats, or with C57BL-/-6 mice strain. Articles that induced obesity by other methods, such as genetic manipulation, surgery, or drugs were excluded, since our main objective was to identify key points for the induction of obesity through diet. Articles in humans, in cell culture, in non-rodent animals, as well as review articles, articles that did not have obesity induction and book chapters were also excluded. Body weight and fat gain, as well as determinants related to inflammation, hormonal concentration, blood glycemia, lipid profile, and liver health, must be evaluated together to better determination of the development of obesity. In addition, to select the best model in each circumstance, it should be considered that each breed and sex respond differently to diet-induced obesity. The composition of the diet and calorie overconsumption are also relevant to the development of obesity. Finally, it is important that a non-obese control group is included in the experimental design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

University extension activities are fundamental for the interaction of students with society, since they connect the theory learned in the classroom with practice in the community. The Rondon Project contributes to this interaction by taking university students to different regions of Brazil, where they conduct extension activities in communities in situations of social vulnerability. This study analyzes the contributions of participation in the Rondon Project in the personal and professional development of students enrolled at the University of Cruz Alta (UNICRUZ). Analysis was made of twenty-eight questionnaires completed by the participants, of whom 100% considered that the experience was valid, while 93% believed that it contributed significantly to their professional training, and 96% considered that it assisted their personal development. This information became more evident in the reports, which highlighted that the Rondon Project was the "best experience" and that "team working" was very important during the activities. Hence, it was evident that the Rondon Project greatly assisted the training of the students, since it encompassed experiences that had both professional and personal aspects, leading to the development of values and improvement of academic learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumors with loss of breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1) are homologous recombination (HR) deficient and hypersensitive to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi). However, these tumors may restore HR and acquire PARPi resistance via loss of end-protection of DNA double-strand breaks. We found that loss of nuclear DNA ligase III resensitizes HR-restored BRCA1-deficient cells to PARPi by exposing post-replicative single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) gaps. Our work, and that of others, identifies ssDNA gaps as a key determinant of PARPi response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate if, in ocular normotensive patients, at the time of diagnosis of optic nerve head drusen (ONHD), perimetric mean deviation (PMD) on visual field (VF) examination and retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness on optical coherence tomography correlated with intraocular pressure (IOP). There was a significant association between IOP and PMD (Spearman's rho = −0.863, p <.01) and between IOP and RNFL thickness (Spearman's rho = −0.630, p <.01). A higher IOP was associated with a greater functional loss in the VF and a reduction in the RNFL thickness. These results suggest that a clinical trial of IOP reduction should be considered in patients with ONHD to decrease the progression of optic nerve damage over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the incidence of intraoperative complications of phacoemulsification cataract surgery in a teaching hospital and to compare the intraoperative complication rate between resident trainees and staff ophthalmologists, to ascertain the overall rate of intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation on postoperative day 1 (POD1), and, again, to compare this value between resident trainees and staff surgeons. Setting: Centro Hospitalar Sao Joao, Oporto, Portugal. Design: Retrospective study. Methods: This study included eyes submitted for phacoemulsification cataract surgery from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2017. There were no exclusion criteria. Data collected included the type of surgeon, level of resident training, case complexity, and intraoperative complications. From all noncomplicated surgeries, preoperative IOP and IOP-POD1 were collected. Results: A total of 2937 surgeries were included; 25.6% were performed by resident trainees. The complication rate was 6.3% with resident trainees and statistically significantly lower (3.3%) in staff surgeons. The complication rate of resident trainees did not differ according to their level of residency. There was a significantly increased incidence of IOP-POD1 elevation in the resident trainee group compared with the staff surgeon group. Surgeries performed by resident trainees, a preexisting history of glaucoma, and pseudoexfoliation were significant risk factors for IOP elevation. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first European study comparing the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications in cataract surgery performed by resident trainees and staff surgeons. We report a significantly higher rate of intraoperative complications and IOP elevation on POD1 in resident trainees vs staff surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Headache in ischemic stroke survivors after the acute stage is incompletely described. Objective: We aimed to prospectively describe the characteristics of headache and the predictors of headache at the chronic stage after ischemic stroke. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational cohort study including 102 acute ischemic stroke patients admitted to a Stroke Unit. Patients were interviewed at the acute and the chronic stage (12 months after stroke). Characteristics of those headaches were collected using a previously validated headache questionnaire enabling headache classification following the International Headache Society criteria. Pre‐stroke headache history was registered using the same instrument. Results: Forty‐five patients out of 89 with completed follow‐up (51%) reported headache at the chronic stage. In most of the patients, headache was sporadic, mild, pressure‐like, with a duration of minutes to hours, with characteristics of tension‐type headache in 51% (n = 23/45). Headache was a reactivation of pre‐stroke headache in 33% (n = 15/45), different from pre‐stroke headache in 44% (n = 20/45), and of new‐onset in 22% (n = 10/45). Only 1 patient had a new‐onset headache at the acute stage that persisted with the same characteristics at the chronic stage. Pre‐stroke headache (OR = 5.3; 95% CI [2.01‐13.98] P =.001) and female sex (OR = 3.5; 95% CI [1.3‐9.4] P =.013) predicted headache at the chronic stage after stroke, controlling for age, severity, and location of stroke. Conclusions: Headache in ischemic stroke survivors at the chronic stage is more frequent in women and in patients with pre‐stroke headache. It is most frequently a headache with different characteristics of the pre‐stroke headache and only rarely a new‐onset headache starting at the acute stage and persisting at the chronic stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of retinal vasculature's dysfunction in the physiopathology of Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) has been extensively described. Recently, the existence of a diabetic choroidal vasculopathy has been proposed. The purpose of this study was to compare choroidal thickness (CT) in nondiabetic patients and in type 2 diabetic patients without retinopathy, using EDI SD-OCT. Additionally, considering the diabetic patient group, compare CT in patients with and without microalbuminuria. This retrospective study selected patients sent from primary health-care centers as part of the national screening of diabetic retinopathy. Inclusion criteria were diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus, absence of diabetic retinopathy, and a 24 hours urinary albumin measurement in the last 3 months at the primary health-care center. Nondiabetic patients were selected from a database in the ophthalmology department, and only healthy patients were included. At the screening visit, all patients performed a complete ophthalmologic examination by the same examiner. All eyes were examined with SD- OCT, and all scans were performed in the EDI mode. Measurements were made at three points: subfoveal, 1500 μm temporally and nasally to the foveal center. We included 110 eyes of 110 diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy and 30 eyes of 30 healthy controls. Mean subfoveal CT was greater in diabetic patients without retinopathy (with normoalbuminuria or microalbuminuria) when compared with nondiabetic patients (p < 0.05). In diabetic patients without retinopathy, the subfoveal and temporal choroid was thicker among patients with microalbuminuria when compared with those of normoalbuminuric patients (p < 0.05). The subfoveal and temporal choroid was thicker among diabetic patients with microalbuminuria compared with nondiabetic patients. (p < 0.05). This study suggests that choroidal changes are present in type 2 diabetic patients even before the clinical development of retinopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work addresses the opposition between the Angolan new man, idealized during the liberation struggles, against the rise of the new Angolan man, forged from capitalist values in the 2005 novel "Predadores". The tensions outlined by the utopia-dystopia conjugation, ie, new man-new man, translate, to a good extent, not only the problems facing Angola today, but also the central element of Pepetela's literary activity: the search for identifications to be thought from the failures that mark the two subjective models - as well as the interpretations and adaptations made from such profiles. To study the work, we will resort in particular to Fanon (1979), Frade (2007) and Mudimbe (2012). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain functions are influenced by the presence, activity, and metabolism of the gut microbiota through the gut-microbiota-brain (GMB) axis. The consumption of a fiber-rich diet increases the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from bacterial fermentation in the colon. Among SCFAs, butyrate stands out because of its wide array of biological functions, such as ability to influence brain functions. Pharmacologically, sodium butyrate (NaB) regulates gene expression in the brain, where it has several beneficial effects ranging from neurodegenerative diseases to behavioral disorders through inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACis). In this context, we review the mechanisms of action of the two types of butyrate on brain functions, with an emphasis on the epigenetic approach. Both types of butyrate are potentially interesting for the prevention and adjuvant therapy of neurological and psychological disorders due to their neuroprotective functions. However, further studies are needed to investigate the possible neuroepigenetic effects of butyrate derived from bacterial fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Single-walled and multiple-walled CNTs were functionalized with two selected isoflavones. • Selected isoflavones (biochanin A and formononetin) are found in Brazilian red propolis. • Biochanin A and formononetin have antiproliferative activities. • Acidic treatment of SWCNTs and MWCNTs improved their dispersibility in water. • SWCNTAs lost thermal stability after functionalization and showed lower loading capacity for isoflavones. In this work, we describe the functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multiple-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with two selected isoflavones (biochanin A and formononetin), and compare the physicochemical properties of the obtained assemblies. The selection of isoflavones was based on the preliminary assessment of bibliometric maps generated from Scopus core collection. Acidic treatment of SWCNTs and MWCNTs improved the samples' dispersibility in water. Regardless the pH environment, SWCNTs remained aggregated in aqueous solution, even after functionalization. The dispersibility of MWCNT increased after acidic treatment (MWCNTA) in both tested pH values (4 and 7). Functionalization was confirmed by the improved dispersibility of CNTs with both isoflavones. MWNCTA and isoflavone 1:1 (w/w) was used for both molecules. Biochanin A showed improved anchoring in MWNCTA when compared to formononetin. Our results corroborate the interest on the use of these new biomaterials based on carbon nanotubes for a range of biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Choline Chloride (ChCl) is a salt considered necessary in several areas since health until technology. In this work, experimental data were analyzed by solubility (293.15 to 343.15 K), density (278.15 to 353.15 K), speed of sound (278.15 to 353.15 K), and dynamic viscosity (293.15 to 353.15 K) to choline chloride aqueous solutions with different solute molalities at atmospheric pressure. Thermodynamic properties such as Gibbs energy and entropy, apparent molar volume, isentropic and apparent molar compressibility, and Arrhenius activation energy of the viscous flow were evaluated from these data. These data allow a qualitative understanding of the solution behavior through solute-solvent and solute–solute interactions. In addition, surface tension data at 298.15 K in different concentrations was determined to identify what kind of behavior has this organic compound. Molar volume and isentropic compressibility data suggest significant ionic interactions and changes in the ion hydration with increasing concentration. In addition, the system presents a clathrate-like formation in the structure. Furthermore, the interfacial behavior classifies the salt as a surfactant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world, and the most frequent cancer among women. Moreover, there are factors that influence the risk for breast cancer including the age, genetic and endocrine factors, and lifestyle.Objectives: To evaluate the consumption of fatty acids; compare the fatty acids composition in the breast adipose tissue of women with breast cancer and benign breast disease as well as potential risk factors; and describe the genotypic frequency of the Pro12Ala PPARγ polymorphism.Material and Methods: A hospital-based case-control study was conducted including incident cases (n= 38 breast cancer; n= 75 benign breast disease; n= 166 control). Lifestyle features, socioeconomic issues, dietary intake, anthropometry, and blood and tissue data were assessed.Results: No differences were observed for fatty acids intake. Interestingly, lauric acid (p = 0.001), myristic acid (p = 0.036), stearic acid (p = 0.031), and total saturated fatty acids (SFAs) (p = 0.048) had lower concentrations in BC than in BBD women, while palmitoleic acid (p = 0.022), erucic acid (p = 0.002), total monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) (p = 0.039) and oleic acid/stearic acid ratio (p = 0.015) increased. There was no significant association between PPARγ polymorphism and studied groups (p = 0.977). The age at first full pregnancy (p = 0.004) was significantly associated with the development BC, whereas BMI (p = 0.005); percentage of body fat (p = 0.024); physical activity (p = 0.036); and age at menarche (p = 0.008), at first full pregnancy (p < 0.001), and of first mammogram (p = 0.018) were significantly associated with the development of BBD.Conclusion: The results suggest a different fatty acids composition of breast adipose tissue, a biomarker of long-term dietary intake, particularly for SFAs, MUFA and 18: 1 n-9/18: 00 ratio. Our findings also show that are differences in the factors related to the development of BC and BBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbiological profile of infectious keratitis has shown great differences across the world. Due to the continuous shifting trends in microbiological profile and antibiotic resistance patterns reported in several studies, constant local updates are crucial to provide an adequate treatment. The propose of this study was to analyze the incidence of infectious keratitis, possible changing trends in microbiological profile, and bacteria sensitivity to commonly used antibiotics, in our tertiary center, in the last 10 years. A retrospective study was performed, based on the survey review of electronic medical records of all patients with presumed infectious keratitis, between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2018. Microbial cultures were performed, and patients were treated according to an internal protocol. A total of 1360 samples were included. We obtained a 35.1% culture-positive rate. Bacteria accounted for 76.78% of all positive scrapes (53.34% were Gram positive and 23.44% were Gram negative), Acanthamoeba for 12.13%, fungi for 8.16%, and virus for 2.93%. The most frequent agent identified was Corynebacterium macginleyi (18.41%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (17.78%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (9.41%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9.00%). We identified at least one ophthalmologic risk factor in 410 patients (85.77%). Trauma and contact lens wear were the most common risk factors found, accounting for 34.94% (n = 167) and 33.47% (n = 160) of cases. Sensitivity to fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides was tested in all bacterial isolates, presenting values of 96.66% and 98.12%. In our region, the most common bacteria are Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and they showed high sensitivity rates to first-line antibiotics, without any modification or emergence of antibiotic resistance trends during the 10 years of the study. For this reason, we decided to maintain the same internal protocol in our tertiary centre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this work, NADES based on sucrose and citric acid was synthesised and evaluated. Physical properties such as density, viscosity and thermal profile were evaluated at different temperatures and water contents. Viscosity and density were inversely affected by temperature and water content. Increases in the sucrose fraction resulted in higher viscosity, but no differences in density were observed. The rheological model of Ostwald‐de‐Waele indicated three distinct rheological behaviours at different temperatures, water content and sucrose fractions. The Arrhenius model showed a good fit for the temperature effect on the apparent viscosity of all NADESs. The NADES decomposition temperature was approximately 393 K. The thermal characterisation revealed that all NADESs presented glass transitions at temperatures below 204.59 K, confirming their formation and stability. Based on these results, the NADES proposed appears as potential green solvent to be used in industrial processes such as extraction, separation and biochemical technology. Preparation of NADES based on citric acid and sucrose in different mass fractions and water content, evaluating its thermal profile, rheological properties and density of green soventes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides employed worldwide for crop protection easily reach aquatic systems, which act as the main reservoirs, and become a risk factor for aquatic fauna. Fipronil is a broad‐spectrum insecticide acting on the insect nervous system; however, other effects and systems unrelated to this mechanism could be affected in non‐target organisms. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the impact of fipronil on the suborganismal response (gene expression and enzymatic activity) of Chironomus riparius larvae as a model organism in ecotoxicology. To this end, short‐term toxicity tests were carried out with fourth‐instar larvae exposed to 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 µg L−1 of fipronil for 24 and 96 h. Messenger RNA levels of 42 genes related to diverse metabolic pathways were analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction, complemented with catalase (CAT), glutathione S‐transferase (GST), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities. Few effects were observed at 24 h; however, after longer exposure (96 h), genes involved in the endocrine, detoxification, stress, and immune response pathways were altered. Moreover, fipronil at 96 h increased CAT and GST activity at 0.01 µg L−1 and AChE at the highest concentrations. The results demonstrate that even low environmentally relevant fipronil concentrations can modulate the molecular response of several cellular pathways in C. riparius after short‐term exposure. These results bring new information about the underlying response of fipronil and its mode of action on a key aquatic invertebrate. Despite no effects on mortality, strong modulation at the suborganismal level emphasizes the advantage of biomarkers as early damage responses and the harmful impact of this pesticide on freshwater organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:405–417. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Trans-umbilical laparoscopic-assisted appendectomy (TULAA) combines advantages of open surgery with benefits of laparoscopy and can be performed either by single-incision or with two trocars; the present study aims to compare outcomes and cost of these techniques in a pediatric serie. Material and methods: Patients undergoing TULAA between July 2013 and June 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. There were two groups: A (single-incision) - one umbilical trocar for a telescope with inbuilt working channel; and B (2-trocar) - one umbilical trocar for a ‘standard’ telescope plus a supra-pubic trocar for instruments. Results: One-hundred and eighty-nine patients (112 males, age: 12[2-17] years) underwent TULAA; 32(17%) presented with perforated appendicitis. Group A encompassed 157 and group B 32 patients; age, gender, proportion of perforated appendicitis, and follow-up were similar. Operative time was 46 [21-145] min in group A, and 54.5[30-111] in group B (A vs B, p = 0.087). Length of hospital stay was 2 [1;22] days in group B, and 2 [0;24] in group A (A vs B, p = 0.136). The prevalence of post-operative complications was similar: 11 (7%) cases in group A and 2 (6.3%) intra-abdominal abscesses in group B. Using disposable trocars, the more expensive starting point of single-incision technique may be reversed after 27 procedures. Conclusion: Single-incision and 2-trocar TULAA are effective techniques with low complication rates and similar outcomes. Despite being technically more demanding, single incision may be advantageous because there are no visible scars, and potentially cheaper in hospitals where disposable trocars are used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics can act as vectors of a wide class of contaminants in aquatic environments. The sorption behavior of two hormones known to cause adverse effects in biota even in low concentrations (testosterone-TTR and progesterone-PGT), and a pesticide with a high environmental persistence known as endocrine disruptor chemical (atrazine-ATZ) onto polyamide (PA) microplastics is investigated under different aquatic matrices using kinetic and isotherm experiments. The sorption equilibrium is achieved in 48 h, and the experimental results are better fitted by pseudo-2nd-order model. Langmuir isotherm better describes the sorption of the contaminants onto PA microplastics. PGT presents the highest sorption efficiency at around 90%, followed by TTR at 70% and ATZ at approximately 20%. Moreover, ATZ is the contaminant with the highest desorption efficiency (∼65%), indicating its preference for staying solubilized in water. Combining classical molecular dynamics and density functional theory calculations, the sorption energies were calculated as 12–15 kcal mol−1, 13–16 kcal mol−1, and 19–22 kcal mol−1 for PGT, TTR, and ATZ, respectively, showing that PGT needs less energy to be transferred from the solvent network to the PA surface, in agreement with experimental results. The sorption mechanism is driven by hydrogen bonds onto PA outer surface, while the electrostatic interactions dominate the PA inner surface sorption. Moreover, the sorption efficiency is statistically different between the investigated matrices, indicating that physicochemical characteristics of water systems could influence the interactions between PA-contaminant. In seawater, the phenomena of salting-out/in and competitive sorption with saline ions are observed for three contaminants. The PA-contaminant complexes are more polar and soluble than the dissociated ones, which increases the contaminant's co-transport by PA in water. [Display omitted] • Polyamide microplastics present a high sorption efficiency for progesterone. • Physicochemical properties of the water systems influence the sorption capacity. • The experimental and theoretical results agree with the sorption order. • Hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions occur in the microplastic complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-synuclein (aSyn) is associated with both sporadic and familial forms of Parkinson's disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease. In particular, multiplications and point mutations in the gene encoding for aSyn cause familial forms of PD. Moreover, the accumulation of aSyn in Lewy Bodies and Lewy neurites in disorders such as PD, dementia with Lewy bodies, or multiple system atrophy, suggests aSyn misfolding and aggregation plays an important role in these disorders, collectively known as synucleinopathies. The exact function of aSyn remains unclear, but it is known to be associated with vesicles and membranes, and to have an impact on important cellular functions such as intracellular trafficking and protein degradation systems, leading to cellular pathologies that can be readily studied in cell-based models. Thus, understanding the molecular effects of aSyn point mutations may provide important insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying disease onset. We investigated the effect of the recently identified A53E aSyn mutation. Combining in vitro studies with studies in cell models, we found that this mutation reduces aSyn aggregation and increases proteasome activity, altering normal proteostasis. We observed that, in our experimental paradigms, the A53E mutation affects specific steps of the aggregation process of aSyn and different cellular processes, providing novel ideas about the molecular mechanisms involved in synucleinopathies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• D-sorbitol, xylitol and D(+)xylose deep eutectic solvent (DES) were prepared. • Sorbitol and xylitol-based DES are more thermostable than xylose-based DES. • Density, viscosity, and speed of sound were dependent on temperature and composition of DES. • Sorbitol based DES presented higher density, viscosity and speed of sound when compared to xylitol and xylose-based DES. Deep eutectic solvents (DES), a class of green solvents of simple preparation, presents high biocompatibility being able to be applied by pharmaceutical and food industry. The aim of this work was to determine density, viscosity, and speed of sound of DES composed by sugar hydrogen bond donors (HBD) (D-sorbitol, xylitol and D(+)xylose) and cholinium chloride as hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA). In addition, the effect of HBA:HBD molar ratio and temperature on thermophysical properties was determined. Results implies that both HBA:HBD molar ratio and temperature influence the thermophysical characteristics of the DES. Higher temperatures decrease the DES density and viscosity and increase the speed of sound. The sorbitol displays the most compact structure presenting higher density, viscosity and speed of sound values when compared to xylitol and xylose-based DES. Results presented in this work may help in the application of sugar-based DES by food industry and in the understanding of these solvents behavior for future separation process studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared preservative solutions at different temperatures aiming to improve the wet mount for trichomoniasis diagnosis. The glucose-saline pH 6.0 solution preserved the trophozoites up to 6 h. The urine samples preservation is crucial for diagnosis and we suggest this solution as part of the clinical laboratorial routine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Plasmodium vivax chimeric new vaccines based on the circumsporozoite protein (CSP). [•] CSP chimeras (a VLP and a multi-epitope string) for optimized immune presentation. [•] Vaccines induce potent and long lasting humoral immune responses. [•] One of the highest avidity antibody index obtained with a P. vivax vaccine. [•] Induce long lasting CSP-specific memory T-cells able to secrete IFN-γ and IL-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite connections and common traits between geopolitics and International Business based on geography and location, literature on this matter is scarce. This study aims to contribute to this literature gap, by assessing the importance of Poland's geopolitical factors in FDI location decisions. By applying a hybrid methodology which combines qualitative and quantitative analyses we conclude that there is a connection between Poland's geopolitical factors (stable, variable and interactional) and the volume, origin and distribution of the FDI received. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Covid-19 pandemic introduced significant changes in our daily life, including the widespread use of face masks. The purpose of this study was to assess if significant changes occurred in the microbiological profile of infectious keratitis. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was performed, based on a survey review of the electronic medical records of all patients with presumed infectious keratitis, between March 2020 and October 2021. The microbiological isolates in this sample (pandemic group) were compared with those obtained in our center between 2009 and 2018 (pre-pandemic group). Results: A total of 194 samples were included in the pandemic group. We obtained a culture-positivity rate of 43.3%, which was significantly higher when compared with the pre-pandemic data (35.15%, p = 0.033). Several further significant differences were found between the pandemic and the pre-pandemic groups: the proportion of bacteria, including gram-positive and gram-negative groups, was higher in our sample (pre-pandemic vs pandemic: 76.78% vs 83.33%, p = 0.010; 53.35% vs 60.71%, p = 0.016; 23.43% vs 34.52%, p = 0.005, respectively); two populations of Gram-positive bacteria found in this study were not isolated in the pre-pandemic sample – Dolosigranulum pigrum and Propionibacterium spp.; and two bacterial isolates were significantly increased in our sample – Corynebacterium spp. (18.41% vs 29.76%, p = 0.003) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9.00% vs 16.66%, p = 0.012). Conclusion: In conclusion, significant changes were found in the microbiological profile of infectious keratitis in our center during the Covid-19 pandemic. While these changes could be related to face mask use, more observational and experimental studies are needed to explore this possible association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we discuss some of the possibilities erected from the dialogue between literature and history in "Yaka", by the angolan writer Pepetela. Without disregard theoretical and methodological issues that define and delimit such discursive fields, we assume a perspective that highlights the contributions provided by such reflexive transdisciplinarity in the (re) presentation of the colonial as a way to find national features effectively in the post-independence. The basis of the research is based mainly focus on the considerations about the selective nature of the official historiography, resuming and associating concepts of Benjamin, Derrida, Foucault and Halbwachs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhibitors of poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymerase (PARPi) have entered the clinic for the treatment of homologous recombination (HR)-deficient cancers. Despite the success of this approach, preclinical and clinical research with PARPi has revealed multiple resistance mechanisms, highlighting the need for identification of novel functional biomarkers and combination treatment strategies. Functional genetic screens performed in cells and organoids that acquired resistance to PARPi by loss of 53BP1 identified loss of LIG3 as an enhancer of PARPi toxicity in BRCA1-deficient cells. Enhancement of PARPi toxicity by LIG3 depletion is dependent on BRCA1 deficiency but independent of the loss of 53BP1 pathway. Mechanistically, we show that LIG3 loss promotes formation of MRE11-mediated post-replicative ssDNA gaps in BRCA1-deficient and BRCA1/53BP1 double-deficient cells exposed to PARPi, leading to an accumulation of chromosomal abnormalities. LIG3 depletion also enhances efficacy of PARPi against BRCA1-deficient mammary tumors in mice, suggesting LIG3 as a potential therapeutic target. [Display omitted] • LIG3 is a critical suppressor of PARPi toxicity in BRCA1−/−53BP1−/− cells • Enhanced PARPi toxicity by LIG3 depletion requires BRCA1 loss but not HR deficiency • LIG3 loss induces MRE11-mediated ssDNA gaps in BRCA1−/−53BP1−/− cells exposed to PARPi • LIG3 depletion enhances efficacy of PARPi against BRCA1-deficient mouse mammary tumors Paes Dias et al. report that loss of nuclear LIG3 increases PARPi toxicity in BRCA1/53BP1 double-deficient cells by promoting the formation of MRE11-mediated post-replicative ssDNA gaps, leading to accumulation of chromosomal abnormalities. LIG3 depletion also enhances the efficacy of PARPi against BRCA1-deficient mammary tumors in mice, suggesting LIG3 as a potential therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Densities of 1-propanol+water+lithium nitrate mixtures have been measured with an oscillating-tube densimeter over a large range of concentrations of the salt and 1-propanol, at 288.15, 298.15, 308.15, and 318.15 K. From these densities, apparent molar volumes of lithium nitrate in 1-propanol+water mixtures have been calculated for each temperature, and apparent molar volumes at infinite dilution have been evaluated. An empirical correlation for partial molar volumes of lithium nitrate in 1-propanol+water mixtures with solvent composition and temperature has been derived. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Herbicides are the main class of pesticides applied in crops and are capable of polluting the surrounding freshwater system; thus, understanding their impact on non-target species, whose mechanism of action is not described, helps to elucidate the real risks of these pollutants to the environment. 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is frequently detected in water and, due to its persistence, poses a risk to wildlife. In this way, the present work aimed to describe the implication of exposure to concentrations of 2,4-D already reported in aquatic environments in several physiological mechanisms of C. riparius at molecular and biochemical levels. To achieve this, bioassays were conducted with fourth instar larvae exposed to three concentrations of 2,4-D (0.1, 1.0, and 7.5 μg L−1). Larvae were collected after 24 and 96 h of exposure, and the expression of 42 genes, related to six subcellular mechanisms, was assessed by Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR). Besides, the activity of the enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was determined. The main metabolic route altered after exposure to 2,4-D was the endocrine system (mainly related to 20-hydroxyecdysone and juvenile hormone), confirming its endocrine disruptor potential. Four of the eleven stress response genes studied were down-regulated, and later exposure modulated DNA-repair genes suggesting genotoxic capacity. Moreover, only one gene from each detoxification phase was modulated at short exposure to 1.0 μg L−1. The molecular responses were not dose-dependent, and some early responses were not preserved after 96 h, indicating a transient response to the herbicide. Exposure to 2,4-D did not alter the activity of CAT, GST, and AChE enzymes. The responses described in this study reveal new mechanistic pathways of toxicity for 2,4-D in non-target organisms and highlight potential ecological consequences for chironomids in aquatic systems at the edges of agricultural fields. [Display omitted] • Despite targeting eudicots, 2,4-D causes molecular effects in C. riparius. • Relevant concentrations (0.1 to 7.5 μg L−1) altered different metabolic pathways. • 2,4-D impacted the endocrine system, acting as an endocrine disruptor. • Detoxification, stress, and DNA-repair genes modulation suggest oxidative stress. • Medium-term exposure increases the molecular responses in C. riparius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study evaluated the effects of resistance exercise training and açaí supplementation on cardiac parameters in hypertensive animals. Methods: For this study, rats from the Wistar and SHR lines (spontaneously hypertensive rats) were used. The animals were divided into 5 groups: Wistar Control (C); Control Hypertensive (H); Trained Hypertensive (HT); Hypertensive and Supplemented with Açaí (HA); and Hypertensive Trained and Supplemented with Açaí (HAT). Resistance exercise training was carried out through climbing. The supplemented groups received 3 g of açaí/kg of body mass. The animals' systolic blood pressure (SBP), body mass, and physical test were measured at the beginning and end of the intervention. At the end, an echocardiographic analysis was performed. Histological analysis and oxidative stress of the LV were performed. Results: It was found that hypertensive animals showed an increase in SBP, and the treatments reduced this parameter. The trained groups achieved higher values of maximum carrying load. Hypertension increased the dimension of the left ventricular free wall in diastole and reduced ejection and shortening fractions. The trained groups showed improvement in ejection and shortening fractions. The H group increased the proportion of extracellular matrix and reduced the proportion of cells, with the HAT group attenuating this change. Cell diameter was greater in group H, and all treatments reduced this parameter. Hypertension increased the concentration of malondialdehyde and decreased catalase activity in LV. The treatments managed to mitigate this damage. Conclusions: It is concluded that the treatments managed to generate positive cardiovascular adaptations, and their combination enhanced these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]