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Background The control of the microbial contamination of pharmaceutical products (PP) is crucial to ensure their safety and efficacy. The validity of the monitoring of such contamination depends on the uncertainty of this quantification. Highly uncertain quantifications due to the variability of determinations or the magnitude of systematic effects affecting microbial growth or other analytical operations make analysis unfit for the intended use. The quantification of the measurement uncertainty expressing the combined effects of all random and systematic effects affecting the analysis allows for a sound decision about quantification adequacy for their intended use. The complexity of the quantification of microbial analysis uncertainty led to the development of simplified ways of performing this evaluation. Objective This work assesses the adequacy of the simplified quantification of the uncertainty of the determination of the microbial contamination of PP by log transforming microbial count and dilution factor of the test sample whose uncertainty is combined in a log scale using the uncertainty propagation law. Methods This assessment is performed by a parallel novel bottom-up and accurate evaluation of microbial analysis uncertainty involving the Monte Carlo method simulation of the Poisson log-normal distribution of counts and of the normally distributed measured volumes involved in the analysis. Systematic effects are assessed and corrected on results to compensate for their impact on the determinations. Poisson regression is used to predict precision affecting determinations on unknown test samples. Result Simplified and detailed models of the uncertainty of the measurement of the microbial contamination of PP are provided, allowing objective comparisons of several determinations and those with a maximum contamination level. Conclusions This work concludes that triplicate determinations are required to produce results with adequately low uncertainty and that simplified uncertainty quantification underevaluates or overevaluates the uncertainty from determinations based on low or high colony numbers, respectively. Therefore, detailed uncertainty evaluations are advised for determinations between 50 and 200% of PP's maximum admissible contamination value Highlight User-friendly tools for detailed and simplified evaluations of the uncertainty of the measurement of microbial contamination of PP are provided together with the understanding of when simplifications are adequate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Battery poultry houses are subject to infestations by pests, such as the ectoparasitic mites Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778) and Ornithonyssus bursa (Berlese, 1888) which are hematophagous and can cause skin lesions, stress, and even death of hens, leading to significant economic losses. Recent European studies have shown that these mites can also work as vectors of pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, due to the absence of records on the association between D. gallinae and O. bursa and pathogenic microorganisms in Brazil, the present study aimed to identify pathogenic bacteria through a metagenomics analysis associated with mites collected from a poultry house located in a rural area of the state of Rio Grande do Sul and direct from a skin' person that lives in a farm in the interior of the state of São Paulo (Brazil). For the material collected in Rio Grande do Sul, a higher predominance of endosymbiotic bacteria, and different species of the pathogenic bacteria species Bartonella was observed. On the other hand, some enterobacteria were identified from O. bursa samples, but the amount was not high enough to identify the species. Additionally, the endosymbiotic Wolbachia spp. was identified in both O. bursa samples (pooled and individuals). Besides the detection of Wolbachia, in the individual O. bursa microbiome, we detected Spiroplasma spp. and 'Candidatus Cardinium'. This is the first time that a microbiome study has been made for the species D. gallinae and O. bursa in Brazil, as well as the first time that Wolbachia, Spiroplasma and 'Candidatus Cardinium' was detected in O. bursa samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the importance of reference genes (RGs) for the accurate analysis of gene expression in tomato fruit ripening using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The authors propose 42 candidate RGs, named FruitRG 01-42, based on their analysis of publicly available RNA-Seq data. They compared the expression stability of these candidate RGs to previously reported RGs and found that the FruitRGs showed lower variability and more stable expression profiles. Experimental qRT-PCR data further supported the suitability of the FruitRGs as reference genes for tomato fruit ripening analysis. The authors emphasize the need for both bioinformatic analyses and experimental validation when selecting reference genes for qRT-PCR experiments. [Extracted from the article]

There are several ways to relieve welding residual stresses. The most commonly used and the only standardized method is the post-weld heat treatment. However, this method is time-consuming and costly, which necessitates exploring other approaches that can ensure satisfactory results in a faster and more economical manner. In this context, the industry has gradually adopted relief of residual stresses through vibration. Therefore, this study aims to relieve welding residual stresses in thick plates to evaluate whether the position of the excitation source, whether parallel or coincident with the welded plates, influences the expected results. Additionally, it seeks to determine whether the best results are obtained when vibration stress relief is performed simultaneously with welding or after the completion of the process. It was verified that the parallel position presented a maximum reduction of 63.7% in residual stresses when performed after welding, while the parallel and coincident position during the welding reduced a maximum of 2.5% and 56.0% of residual stresses, respectively. Furthermore, mechanical tests are conducted to determine the influence of these processes on mechanical properties. The results indicated that performed vibration after welding is more efficient, and the vibration motor's position significantly influences the results. Furthermore, it was observed that the only impacted toughness without altering significant other mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinturnicid mites are ectoparasites exclusively of bats. Herein, we provide a comprehensive catalogue of spinturnicid species recorded in Brazil focusing on their distribution nationwide. This catalogue listed 16 spinturnicid species into four different genera, and a key for the genera recorded in Brazil. Also, it provides new locality records for four species: Cameronieta almaensis Almeida, Gettinger and Gardner, Periglischrus acutisternus Machado-Allison, Periglischrus caligus Kolenati, and Periglischrus iheringi Oudemans. Additionally, this study includes a detailed discussion on the host-specificity and molecular data of these mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sb 2-x Cr x Te 3 quantum dots (QDs) were synthesized in a host glass matrix through fusion and heat treatment methods. The results revealed the specific effects inherent to the doping of Cr3+ ions in diluted magnetic semiconductors (DMS) (Sb 2-x Cr x Te 3 QDs embedded in glass matrix). Differential Thermal Analysis shows evidence of changes in glass transition and the host glass's crystallization temperatures with the presence of Sb 2-x Cr x Te 3 QDs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images and energy dispersive X-ray analysis evidenced the formation, size, and composition of these DMS QDs. The interplanar distances d hkl measured in TEM and the pattern observed in electron diffraction from the selected area reinforces the Sb 2 Te 3 crystalline nature. Structural analyses of x-ray diffraction patterns confirm that all Sb 2-x Cr x Te 3 QDs crystallize in the rhombohedral R 3 _ m − D 3 d 5 structure and that Cr3+-ions had replaced Sb3+-ions. Electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra exhibit resonance signals confirming Cr3+ ion incorporation into the Sb 2 Te 3 crystal lattice. Moreover, EPR shows that the sp-d exchange interactions become less pronounced with the formation of Cr3+ ─ Cr3+ pairs. Raman scattering spectroscopy confirmed the formation of Sb2-xCrxTe3 QDs. The red and blue shifts of the normal Raman- and IR-active vibrational modes characteristic of Sb 2 Te 3 give strong evidence of the Cr3+ ion incorporation in QDs. Interestingly, the study results revealed better structural and magnetic properties. We believe that these Sb2-xCrxTe3 QDs in SNAB glass, with appropriate dopant concentration and chemical composition, are potentially efficient for thermoelectric, topological insulators, photovoltaic devices, solar cells, magnetic devices and spintronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Araguaia Pantanal is characterized by a mosaic of vegetation with high biodiversity. However, our understanding of this biodiversity remains limited and understudied. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the distribution patterns of dung beetles in different vegetation types (Deciduous Forest, Savanna, Riparian Forest, Murundu Fields, and Exotic Pastures). In addition, we analyzed how forest cover influence the species richness, abundance, and species composition of dung beetles. A total of 12,746 dung beetles representing 67 different species were captured and examined. Our findings revealed that the Murundu Fields exhibited lower species richness and abundance of dung beetles, indicating the influence of distinct vegetation types directly associated with flood pulses in the region. Furthermore, the species composition of the Murundu Fields was found to be a subset of the adjacent vegetation, primarily composed of Savanna and Deciduous Forest species. Additionally, our results demonstrated that tree cover played a significant role in driving dung beetle species turnover among the studied sites, highlighting the species’ response to the existing gradient of vegetational changes within the region. We believe that our study contributes valuable insights into the distribution and ecological dynamics of dung beetles in the Araguaia Pantanal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we described two new species, Euschoengastia mojavensissp. n. and Blankaartia aurissp. n. collected from rodents in the Amargosa River valley near Tecopa, in Inyo County, California, USA. We also redescribe the most similar Euschoengastia species when compared with the new species, Euschoengastia fasolla Brennan and Beck, 1955, from Berry Springs Nature Reserve, Utah, USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eutrombicula alfreddugesi (Oudemans, 1910) is the most common chigger parasitic on humans and widely distributed throughout the Americas. Examination of the type specimens revealed differences from those of the original description and subsequent redescriptions. A detailed redescription based on an examination of the type specimens of E. alfreddugesi is provided and illustrated with micrographs to aid in identification, as well as designating a lectotype and a paralectotype for this species. The distribution of E. alfreddugesi may be much more restricted than what has been reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biodegradable polymer packaging system for 'Benitaka' table grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) was developed to inhibit the development of gray mold during refrigerated storage. The system consisted of packages and sachets containing Na2S2O5 to release sulfur dioxide (SO2), both produced with biodegradable films of starch, glycerol, and poly (adipate co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT) produced via blown extrusion. The films were characterized in terms of thickness, density, mass loss in water, water vapor permeability, sorption isotherms, and mechanical properties. The table grapes were packed with biodegradable plastic bags containing SO2-releasing sachets inside. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four repetitions and five treatments: (a) control, without sachet containing Na2S2O5 and SiO2; (b) 2 g of Na2S2O5 + 2 g of SiO2; (c) 4 g of Na2S2O5 + 1 g of SiO2; (d) 4 g of Na2S2O5 + 2 g of SiO2; and (e) 4 g of Na2S2O5 + 4 g of SiO2. The bunches were stored in a refrigerated chamber at 1 ± 1 °C and relative humidity above 90%. The treatments were evaluated 30 and 45 days after the beginning of refrigerated storage and 3 days at room temperature. The grapes were evaluated based on the incidence of gray mold, mass loss, stem browning, shattered berries, and berry bleaching. The data were subjected to the analysis of variance, and the means were compared using Tukey's test at 5%. The biodegradable films had good processability during the production via blown extrusion, with good physical properties to be used in the packaging of grapes and the production of SO2-releasing sachets. The biodegradable polymer packaging system (biodegradable plastic bags + SO2-releasing sachets) inhibited the development of gray mold on 'Benitaka' table grapes for 45 days at 1 °C, preserving their quality, with low mass loss, few shattered berries, and rachis freshness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most diverse fields of knowledge have focused on understanding the dimension of space and time in human sociability for centuries. In the field of Geography is also a very traditional topic in terms of academic research. But the second half of the 20th century brought an expansion in reflections on temporal research, due to Hagerstrand's temporal geography research, as well later contributions in broader and more critical perspectives. But there are still few studies in Brazil with this theme. This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the foundations of temporal geography for a critical analysis of urban crossings and biography of the daily (i)mobilities of the peripheral populations from the metropolis of São Paulo. The methodology used in this article refers to quantitative and qualitative approaches and usages of new technologies for the active GPS positioning of smartphones. It was found that the urban crossings of peripheral populations are marked by everyday constraints that limit the time-space prism and make it impossible to access opportunities on the edges of the metropolis of São Paulo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature on biological assets reveals a difficulty in estimating fair value in the absence of an active market, which can reduce the reliability of the accounting information. This scenario of uncertainty was used as a catalyst for the change in CPC 29, focused on bearer plants. However, some biological assets without an active market and with a shorter life cycle are still measured at fair value, using the same valuation models. The objective of this work is to study the models used by sugar mills to measure sugarcane, and to verify whether they are following the standard when accounting for and evidencing sugarcane in their financial statements. It also intends to verify if the assumptions used to calculate the fair value of biological assets are comparable between mills, and if the measurement information is in the explanatory notes. To achieve this objective, the research analyzed 13 financial statements of companies from the sugar and ethanol sector, checking the assumptions used to calculate the fair value. The results indicate that the number of assumptions used in the discounted cash flow models is different among companies, which can compromise the comparability of the information, since there is no uniformity in the number of assumptions disclosed. The three most widely disclosed assumptions are: total recoverable sugar (ATR), estimated production, and discount rate. We conclude that disclosure is low even restricting the analysis to the sugar and ethanol sector, which opens the opportunity for discussion regarding more specific guidelines from the regulator to measure biological assets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

currently the meaning of atheism in Christian societies is associated with disbelief in the existence of God. However, the research area of the history of ideas, according to the position of historian Mark Bevir, allows investigating the creation process and the objectives present in the elaboration of meanings on terms in certain intellectual and political contexts. This article aims to accomplish this task through the study of the notion of "atheistic humanity" in the book A Quarta Humanidade, published in 1934 by the integralist leader Plínio Salgado. In more specific terms, I adopted a synchronic approach to map Plínio Salgado's intellectual references in the 1920s/30s (yellow-greenmodernism, Catholic conservatism, national authoritarian and fascist political thought) to, in the second part of the text, analyze diachronically the relationship of these references with the construction of the meaning of atheism as "atheistic humanity" and its link with the author's political struggle in the Brazilian Integralist Action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: National governance may have influenced the response of institutions to the Covid-19 pandemic, being a key factor in preparing for the next pandemics. The objective was to analyze the association between excess mortality due to COVID-19 (daily and cumulative per 100 thousand people) and national governance indicators in 213 countries. Method: Multiple linear regression models using secondary data from large international datasets that are in the public domain were performed. Governance indicators corresponded to six dimensions: (i) Voice and Accountability; (ii) Political Stability and Absence of Violence/Terrorism; (iii) Government Effectiveness; (iv) Regulatory Quality; (v) Rule of Law and (vi) Control of Corruption. The statistical analysis consisted of adjusting a multiple linear regression model. Excess mortality due to COVID-19 was adjusted for potential confounding factors (demographic, environmental, health, economic, and ethnic variables). Results: The indicators Control of Corruption, Government Effectiveness, Regulatory Quality and Rule of Law had a significant inverse association (p < 0.0001) with the estimated excess mortality in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Furthermore, the governance indicators had a direct significant association (p < 0.0001) with the vaccination variables (People_fully_vaccinated; Delivered population; The total number of vaccination doses administered per 100 people at the country level), except for the variables Vaccination policies and Administration of first dose, which were inversely associated. In countries with better governance, COVID-19 vaccination was initiated earlier. Conclusion: Better national governance indicators were associated with lower excess mortality due to COVID-19 and faster administration of the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) are a class of biological products for human use that are based on gene, tissues or cells. ATMPs have peculiar characteristics when compared with traditional medicines. In this regard, long-term safety and efficacy follow-up systems of individuals treated with ATMPs have become necessary and may present unique challenges, because unlike conventional drugs and biologics, these products can exert their effects for years after administration. This work seeks to assess the requirements foreseen in the regulatory frameworks for the post-marketing authorization safety and efficacy surveillance for ATMPs in Brazil, European Union (EU), Japan and United States, which are some of the members of the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use. We reviewed the scientific literature and official documents of regulatory agencies (RAs) in Brazil, the EU, Japan and the United States. RAs in the EU, US and Japan have developed regulatory guidelines for the post-marketing surveillance of ATMPs. These guidelines aim at implementing surveillance plans for monitoring adverse events, including late ones, after marketing authorization. All the ATMPs authorized by the RAs studied, submitted some type of post-marketing requirement to supplement safety and efficacy data, according to the regulations and terminology used by those jurisdictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate research from Brazilian postgraduate students who provide evidence of effectiveness for Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC). Methods: We conducted a literature review study of thesis and dissertations available in the Brazilian Digital Library of Dissertations and Theses (D/T) in May 2021 regardless of the year they were conducted. In those studies that did not utilize the NIC in the effectiveness evaluation, the cross‐mapping methodology was employed between NIC and the interventions used by the authors of the studies. Results: Using a systematic process, we identified 91 studies. Twenty‐seven met a priori inclusion and exclusion criteria. We found an increase in studies that focused on nursing interventions in the last 10 years (n = 19), a large proportion of clinical trials (n = 16), and the majority of articles from the Southeast region of Brazil (n = 20). The areas of focus were adult and elderly care, and with a special interest in the behavioral domain (n = 11). Two sensitivity criteria were identified in all D/T (n = 27), and each study presented evidence of effectiveness of a minimum of three criteria simultaneously. Conclusions: Based on the effectiveness criteria, the Brazilian scientific production in postgraduate programs carried out by nurses provides evidence of the effectiveness for NIC nursing interventions. Implications for nursing practice: It is recommended to conduct further research that uses the NIC in the planning, conduct, and evaluation of interventions, based on effectiveness criteria of nursing sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the general setting of twisted second quantization (including Bose/Fermi second quantization, S-symmetric Fock spaces, and full Fock spaces from free probability as special cases), von Neumann algebras on twisted Fock spaces are analyzed. These twisted Araki-Woods algebras L T (H) depend on the twist operator T and a standard subspace H in the one-particle space. Under a compatibility assumption on T and H, it is proven that the Fock vacuum is cyclic and separating for L T (H) if and only if T satisfies a standard subspace version of crossing symmetry and the Yang-Baxter equation (braid equation). In this case, the Tomita-Takesaki modular data are explicitly determined. Inclusions L T (K) ⊂ L T (H) of twisted Araki-Woods algebras are analyzed in two cases: If the inclusion is half-sided modular and the twist satisfies a norm bound, it is shown to be singular. If the inclusion of underlying standard subspaces K ⊂ H satisfies an L 2 -nuclearity condition, L T (K) ⊂ L T (H) has type III relative commutant for suitable twists T. Applications of these results to localization of observables in algebraic quantum field theory are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residual stresses arising from welding can adversely affect the mechanical properties of welded structures. Stress relief techniques involving thermal or mechanical methods are commonly employed to mitigate these stresses and improve the performance of welded structures. This study involved subjecting welded plates of ASTM A131 EH36 marine steel to thermal and vibrational stress relief methods, followed by conducting mechanical tests to evaluate the impact of stress relief on tensile, bending, microhardness, and toughness properties. Thermal treatment is a consolidated and already standardized method. On the other hand, vibrational treatment for stress relief is a method that lacks studies and standards, but it may become an excellent alternative to traditional thermal treatment. The aim is to compare the results obtained from each method, both with and without stress relief, including vibration welding conditioning. The study concluded that both stress relief techniques reduced stress intensity and altered mechanical properties, with thermal treatment being the most significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The New World genus Hooperella Vercammen-Grandjean has five valid species that are often collected parasitizing bats. Two of these species were examined in the present study, Hooperella spinirostra and Hooperella vesperuginis. Moreover, after examining both types, we propose H. spinirostra as a junior synonym of H. vesperuginis, since no difference was observed between them. In addition, we add new locality and host records for H. vesperuginis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the research reported in this article, we seek to explore aspects of differential thinking and thinking-with-GeoGebra that emerge when high school students investigate activities on the calculation of areas and volumes. Initially, we discuss issues about mathematical thinking and differential thinking, proposing a perspective on differential thinking formed by four aspects: Notion of limit and continuity; Notion of infinitesimal; Defined integral concept; Visualgeometric design. From the methodological point of view, based on qualitative research, we developed teaching experiments with 6 pairs of students from the 10, 11 and 12 grades of High School, considering the elaboration of a task composed of 5 activities. In the article, based on the notion of sampling in qualitative research, we discuss the investigation developed by one pair of 12th grades about the activity entitled "The Problem of Volume". In the data analysis, we highlighted the role of visualization and experimentation-with-technologies in the development of students' thinking. In particular, we emphasize how the resources or potentialities of the software offered ways for students to articulate the four aspects that make up differential thinking in the proposed perspective. This study contributes to the production of knowledge about the use of digital technologies in Mathematics Education, in particular to the relation to the teaching of Calculus in High School. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and possibly associated working conditions among dockworkers operating quay cranes. The data on working posture were collected through direct observations, photographs, and videos used in the Rapid Entire Body Assessment. The data on discomfort were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Symptom Questionnaire. First, the questionnaire results showed that musculoskeletal symptoms are highly prevalent, particularly in the lumbar spine, cervical spine, shoulder, and neck. These data were ratified by machine learning analyses that, using logistic regression, achieved a big root mean square error, showing a correlation in the neck, wrists and hands, hip and thigh, and cervical region. Secondly, the final Rapid Entire Body Assessment score was 6, which reveals the median to the high-risk level of worker posture while performing the task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Demographic Census is the most relevant set of research to understand Brazil, allowing to analyse the main socio-economic and spatial transformations of the Brazilian territory. On its various scales, it identifies processes and trends that contrast with past territorial dynamics, demographic developments and emerging social demands. The aim of this text is to analyze these transformations in the state of Rondônia, presenting as the center of analysis the expansion of the urban network and its population dynamics. To achieve this, the methodology adopted combined the review of regional research with statistical-cartographic analyses. The results indicate two processes: the formation of an urban axis and population recentralization along the BR-364 highway, simultaneously, with population dispersion in small and intermediate municipalities. From a population receiving state, Rondônia passes to a stage of little demographic growth, with population displacement fronts towards new agricultural frontiers in the Western Amazon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, TiO2 films were deposited via the doctor blade technique on fiber-cement surfaces. Two types of nanoparticles (TiO2-P25 from Degussa and TiO2-PC105 from Tronox) were used to produce films. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images revealed films with homogeneous and nanoparticulated morphology. The TiO2 PC105 film presented a lower roughness parameter (RMS) in relation to that of the TiO2 P25-based film. Both films exhibited high hydrophilicity when exposed to UV-A radiation (contact angle θ < 6°). The photocatalytic activity of the films was evaluated by standardized methylene blue dye degradation assays under UV-A irradiation (1.0 mW/cm2). The TiO2-PC105 film showed a photonic efficiency of ξ = 0.1%, while for the films obtained with TiO2-P25, ξ = 0.08%. The cement surface modified with the PC105 film was evaluated for antimicrobial activity through the use of multiple pathogens commonly found in hospitals. A considerably high efficiency was measured with visible light. Growth inhibition rates of 99.0% ± 0.2, 99.1% ± 0.2, 99.1% ± 0.2, 97.5% ± 0.5, 98.0% ± 0.5 and 98.0% ± 0.5 were found for Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella sp., Escherichia coli, Rhizobium sp., Fusarium sp. and Penicillium sp., respectively. The results show the self-cleaning ability and their potential use for protection, by preventing contamination of the fiber-cement surface and opening new possibilities for the use of this building material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a three-stage model for managing energy communities for local energy sharing and providing grid flexibility services to tackle local distribution grid constraints. The first stage addresses the minimization of each prosumer's individual energy bill by optimizing the schedules of their flexible resources. The second stage optimizes the energy bill of the whole energy community by sharing the prosumers' energy surplus internally and re-dispatching their batteries, while guaranteeing that each prosumer's new energy bill is always be equal to or less than the bill that results for this prosumer from stage one. This collective optimization is designed to ensure an additional collective benefit, without loss for any community member. The third stage, which can be performed by the distribution system operator (DSO), aims to solve the local grid constraints by re-dispatching the flexible resources and, if still necessary, by curtailing local generation or consumption. Stage three minimizes the impact on the schedule obtained at previous stages by minimizing the loss of profit or utility for all prosumers, which are furthermore financially compensated accordingly. This paper describes how the settlement should be performed, including the allocation coefficients to be sent to the DSO to determine the self-consumed and supplied energies of each peer. Finally, some case studies allow an assessment of the performance of the proposed methodology. Results show, among other things, the potential benefits of allowing the allocation coefficients to take negative values to increase the retail market competition; the importance of stage one or, alternatively, the need for a fair internal price to avoid unfair collective benefit sharing among the community members; or how stage three can effectively contribute to grid constraint solving, profiting first from the existing flexible resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The known chigger fauna of Argentina comprises 17 species organized in the families Trombiculidae (10) and Leeuwenhoekiidae (7). The present study describes a new species of Eutrombicula with drawings, phase contrast microscopy images, and SEM images. This chigger was collected parasitizing a vicuna in Abra Pampa City, Jujuy Province. It is the first time a chigger from Argentina has been collected from the family Camelidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluate the effectiveness of salinization compared to heparinization on the patency of the fully implanted catheter. Integrative literature review. The search was carried out in the National Library of Medicine, Science Direct, Scientific Electronic Library Online and Virtual Health Library databases. When washing the port-a-cath, 10 to 20ml of 0.9% saline solution is used, reaching up to 20 ml for washing; in blocking, 0.9% saline solution is used to saline or heparinized solution, with concentrations of 50 to 100U/ml, reaching up to 500U/ml for heparinization, both with a 1.5 to 5 ml flush. SF stood out by showing security in port-a-cath blocking. The use of a fully implanted catheter in cancer patients proved to be of such importance for the procedures, the studies showed that there is no significant difference between the solutions, suggesting the use of 0.9% saline solution for catheter blocking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiggers are larval ectoparasites of the Trombiculidae that can transmit pathogens to their hosts. In this study, chiggers collected from birds in Brazil were morphologically identified as Blankaartia sinnamaryi, Eutrombicula batatas, Eutrombicula daemoni, Eutrombicula goeldii, Eutrombicula tinami, and Parasecia gilbertoi. For these specimens, a beginning attempt at molecular identification were also provided, as well as, were genetically screened to detect bacterial pathogens. The species B. sinnamaryi and E. tinami were positive for Rickettsia felis-like and ‘Candidatus Rickettsia colombianensi’-like, respectively. For the other agents (Anaplasmataceae, Borrelia spp. and Orientia tsutsugamushi), the tests were negative. This is the first report of ‘Ca. R. colombianensi’-like and the second record of R. felis-like in chigger collected on birds from Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to measure scientific production on the riverside population's health in Brazilian territory. Method: a bibliometric study, with data collected in March and April 2023, using different databases, via the Virtual Health Library, PubMed, Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel Journal Portal and the online scientific library. Search strategies were developed with descriptors and keywords. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed, and Bradford's, Lotka's and Zipf's bibliometric laws were applied. Results: the sample consisted of 35 documents, predominantly quantitative original articles, published in English and Portuguese, in from 2019 to 2022. Due to their publication numbers, five authors and four Brazilian institutions were highlighted. Four most influential journals, four most representative keywords and the main terms used in writing the objectives of selected studies were identified. Conclusion: it was evident that scientific production has increased in recent years, but it is necessary to strengthen the volume of studies on the topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the accuracy of the clinical indicators of the nursing diagnosis Ineffective Health Management in people with hypertension. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional diagnostic accuracy study. The ineffective health management was investigated in 120 people with hypertension in a referral public outpatient clinic in Brazil between August and November 2020. The accuracy measures were analyzed using Rasch analysis, considering the difficulty of clinical indicator and person's ability. Results: Ineffective health management is probably present in 37.5% of people with hypertension. 'Failure to include treatment regimen in daily living' was the clinical indicator with the highest sensitivity value, and 'failure to take action to reduce risk factor' had the highest specificity value. Conclusions: Rasch analysis demonstrated that all clinical indicators contribute significantly to estimating the presence of ineffective health management in people with hypertension in the outpatient scenario. Implications for Nursing Practice: This research contributes by providing accurate clinical indicators of ineffective health management, helping nurses prescribe and deliver the appropriate nursing interventions for people with hypertension by telenursing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The illicit use of industrial liquid silicone (ILS) is a common practice among travesti and transgender Women (TrTW) in the process of bodily change. The "pumped ladies" apply the ILS without any preparation regarding biosafety, and this practice poses serious risks to the health of TrTW, including death. This study aims to describe the prevalence of ILS use and estimate the associated factors among TrTW in a Brazilian city. Methods: This behavioral and serological survey employed the Respondent-Driven Sampling (RDS) recruitment technique. Participants who declared themselves to be travesti or transgender women over 15 years were considered eligible. The sample consisted of 127 TrTW. The bivariate analysis estimated the prevalence of ILS use by sociodemographic, cultural, and behavioral variables. Multivariate analysis used Poisson regression for adjusted estimates with respective 95% confidence intervals. Results: Approximately 31.6% of the TrTW (n = 44) used ILS and 57.2% (n = 67) were under 25 years old. Most (73.2%, n = 79) had access to more than eight years of schooling. Nine percent (n = 15) tested positive for HIV, and 31.6% (n = 48) tested positive for syphilis. The TrTW who felt more comfortable with their body image had a threefold higher prevalence of ILS use and those who performed an HIV test before the study had a 4.5 times higher prevalence of ILS. Conclusion: ILS is widely used by TrTW in Brazil. Although public policies for the transgenderizing process exist, this process still occurs illicitly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ) Bladder Diary (BD) is a standardized and validated diary, developed in the English language, designed to assess lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men and women. This study reports the translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation process of this diary to the Portuguese language. Methods: After translation and back-translation of the ICIQ-BD to Portuguese, 140 urologic patients were asked to fill in this 3-day diary as well as the Overactive Bladder questionnaire Short Form (OABqSF) and a questionnaire evaluating the difficulties in filling out the ICIQ-BD. A subset of 60 patients filled out a second diary with/without LUTS treatment in between (30 patients in each group). In addition, content validity, internal consistency, criterion and construct validity were tested. Results: The Portuguese version of the ICIQ-BD showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of 0.78), and patients reported few difficulties in filling out this tool, answering most commonly 1 on a 1–6 scale of difficulty. Excellent test-retest reliability and responsiveness of the diary were observed when comparing the first diary to a second completed 2–6 weeks later. Criterion validity was also confirmed, given the good correlation with the OABqSF (Pearson's 0.386–0.447). Finally, construct validity was established through statistically significant concordance between data obtained in the BD with generally accepted theories. Conclusion: The present version of the ICIQ-BD is the first bladder diary successfully validated in the Portuguese language. It is a suitable and standardized tool for scientific research and diagnostic assessment of LUTS in adult men and women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between herbivorous insects and plants is an example of an 'evolutionary arms race'. Understanding the relationship between insects and their host plants makes it possible to determine critical points in the bioecology of these herbivores. In this relationship, insects and plants use strategies to overcome, avoid and mitigate the actions of the other. Insect‐induced galls are one of the great examples of this 'arms race'. Psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) are among the most important gall‐inducing insects. The psyllid Triozoida limbata (Triozidae) is an important pest of guava (Psidium guajava) in the Neotropics. Thus, this work aimed to determine the morphological, anatomical, and biochemical changes in guava leaves caused by T. limbata to study the 'arms race' between these two organisms. Therefore, the process of gall formation on guava leaves during the psyllid life cycle was described. A comparative study of the anatomy and levels of phytohormones in leaves attacked and not attacked by the psyllid was carried out. It was found that the psyllid attack triggered the plant's defence by increasing the jasmonic acid content in the leaves. The psyllid attack caused anatomical changes in the leaves (such as cell non‐differentiation), allowing the insect to survive feeding on the plant. In addition, the psyllid‐induced galls provided shelter for the psyllid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family Erythraeidae has 60 genera worldwide, of which Charletonia Oudemans has 86 described species, only two of which are recorded in Brazil. Here, we redescribe one of these species based on the holotype, Charletonia rocciai Treat and Flechtmann, and newly collected material. The material represents new records from four different localities in São Paulo State and one in Santa Catarina State. In addition, we provide SEM images of the morphological structures to improve the diagnosis and redescription, an updated distribution map, including biological data, and new host-associations of C. rocciai with the following orders of insects, Coleoptera and Thysanoptera, and with an order of Arachnida – Araneae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the research was to quantify the levels of heat stress, physiological variables and losses of sensible and latent heat in sheep native to the Brazilian semi-arid region, kept in a climatic chamber at thermoneutral temperatures and heat stress. The experimental design was completely randomized with five temperatures and 24 sheep, with an average age of 5.0±1.0 months and an average weight of 15.0±2.3 kg. According to the heat stress index (HSI) at temperatures from 20.0 to 28.0 °C the environment was classified as comfortable, at a temperature of 32.0 °C, the environment was classified as mild to moderate discomfort, and at a temperature of 36.0 °C, it was classified as alert. With the increase in temperature, the animals significantly (P<0.05) increased rectal and superficial temperatures and respiratory rate and, in TNT, sensitive heat exchanges corresponded to an average of 55.9 % and in HST to 12.9 % of the total, and at a temperature of 32.0 °C, sensible heat exchanges corresponded to 17.9 % and latent heat exchanges corresponded to 82.1 % and, at a temperature of 36.0 °C, 95.8 % of heat exchanges were due to latent means, of which 85.1 % were cutaneous. Sheep kept in stressful thermal conditions increase their physiological variables and eliminate the majority of excess metabolic heat through latent means (skin and respiratory tract). • Sheep kept in stressful thermal conditions increase their physiological variables; • Sheep eliminate the majority of excess metabolic heat through latent means; • The temperature of 32.0 °C, sensible heat exchanges corresponded to 17.9 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot cathode ionisation gauges are indispensable in measuring high and ultra-high vacuum. In the present work the construction details and the metrological evaluation of a novel gauge design — the cylindrical ionisation gauge is presented. With the aim of enhancing accuracy and stability both in the short and long term, details of the mechanical assembling of electrodes and precautions to minimize leakage currents influencing ion current measurement are described. Performance evaluations demonstrate high short-term stability, with linearity error, reproducibility, and repeatability values consistently below 1 %, placing the gauge at the same level as the most stable ionisation gauges. Operating across a pressure range of at least 6 orders of magnitude, the gauge exhibits low linearity error from high to ultra-high vacuum ranges. Its capability to measure pressures below 10−9 mbar remains open and requires further investigation. • Novel cylindrical ionisation gauge design to achieve high accuracy and stability. • Robust construction and guarding electrodes that prevent disturbing leak currents. • High short-term stability: linearity error, repeatability and reproducibility <1 %. • No need for initial conditioning by exposing to high pressure of inert gases. • Operation at least in 6 orders of magnitude, has only been tested down to 10−9 mbar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The horticultural activity has gained in recent years greater visibility through state stimulus programs. Horticulture is an important source of employment and income for the economy of many municipalities since the state of Rio Grande do Sul is the 4th largest national fruit producer. However, the poor conditions of rural roads have been causing losses, affecting the income earned by horticulturalists. The road conditions are usually due to the interactions of man with the geographic space and society because it impacts the environment when pressing the opening of new roads. These roads have some difficulties in terms of mobility. In this sense, this work aims to characterize and evaluate to what proportion that attributes of the terrain impacts road system and the flow of production in the municipalities of Nova Esperança do Sul and Santiago, RS. It was sought through the free software QGIS version 3.4 LTR "Madeira" to apply a series of computational tools for the extraction of variables contained in the MDE to compute the impedances. Initially, an analysis of horticultural production was made, demonstrating the need to transpose and it was observed that in the period of 12 years an increase of 4.76% in horticultural production, thus justifying the need for a modal capable of satisfying such needs. On the other hand, it was observed that 80% of the roads in the respective municipalities are not paved, suffering from holes, erosion, lack of drainage, etc. impacting the trafficability of producers and the community in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of male infertility has been increasing over the years and is now becoming a serious health problem. This trend has been followed by an increase in metabolic diseases, which are known to induce clear alterations in testicular metabolism, although the underlying mechanismremain unclear. Testicular metabolism displays several unique features, with testicular somatic cells being central in providing the conditions needed for spermatogenesis, including its nutritional and hormonal support. In addition to glucose and lactate, the two main energy sources used by the testis, glycogen is also present in testicular cells. Glycogen metabolism is a potential source of glucose to both testicular somatic (namely Sertoli and Leydig cells) and germ cells. Many of the enzymes involved in the pathways of the synthesis and degradation of glycogen were identified in these cells, emphasising the relevance of this complex carbohydrate. Glycogen, however, has other non-canonical functions in testicular cells; besides its role as a source of energy, it is also associated with events such as cellular differentiation and apoptosis. In this review, we address the relevance of testicular glycogen metabolism, focusing on its role in Sertoli and Leydig cells and spermatogenesis. In addition, all the available information on the role of glycogen and related pathways in male infertility cases is discussed. Our discussion highlights that glycogen metabolism has been somewhat overlooked in testis and its contribution to spermatogenesis may be underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ornithonyssus bursa, known as the "tropical fowl mite," is a hematophagous mite of domestic and wild birds, which occasionally bites humans. Accidental bites on humans occur mainly when abandoned bird nests are close to homes or when people are handling parasitized birds. In the present study, we describe five case reports of bites on humans and new records of localities for this species. Based on the material examined, we provide morphological and molecular characterizations for this species herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of contaminated land often requires the collection and analysis of soil samples and the discrete or continuous modeling of the contamination. The continuous modeling involves interpolating analyte concentrations between sampled positions. The contamination can be expressed either as a map showing the spatial distribution across the site, or as a frequency distribution, both of which can be compared with a threshold. The characterization of land contamination is affected by random and systematic uncertainty components of the sampling, chemical analysis, sampling positioning and modeling. This work describes the application and comparison of three techniques for developing continuous models of the contamination of a site supported by the quantification of none, some or all relevant uncertainty components. The 7.3 ha site was characterized using 100 soil samples and the lead contamination modeled by "inverse distance weighting" (IDW), "ordinary kriging"(OK) and a new Monte Carlo simulation method (MCM). The IDW only uses the positions and concentrations of the samples without their uncertainty. The OK also requires the "measurement error" and other parameters to select the variogram. The MCM uses the measurement uncertainty (including random and systematic effects arising from both sampling and analysis) and 'GPS coordinates uncertainty'. The measurements of Pb concentration across the site were log-normally distributed, and therefore log-transformed prior to modeling. The output of the models was compared against a discrete model by 'probabilistic block mapping' (PBM) that also considers measurement uncertainty. The OK produced a smoothed spatial variation of Pb concentration that appears more realistic. However, IDW and OK underestimate the land contamination, while MCM prediction most closely matches that of the measured concentrations including the impact of uncertainty components. The MCM allowed a metrologically sound modeling of the contamination and the linear interpolation of data reduced assessment subjectivity. Both MCM and PBM made realistic estimates of the proportion of the site that was contaminated over the threshold and included all relevant uncertainty components in the continuous or discrete modeling, respectively. The PBM identifies areas where the true value of the contaminant concentration could exceed the threshold value, even though the single measured value did not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbamates are widely used and known around the world as pesticides in spite of also having medical applications. This class of chemicals is classified as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, blocking acetylcholine hydrolyzation in a reversible manner. Their lack of species selectivity and their reported high toxicity can induce, upon exposure, adverse outcomes in male fertility that may lead to infertility. In addition, they are also considered endocrine-disrupting chemicals and can interfere with the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis, essential for the normal function of the male reproductive system, thus being able to provoke male reproductive dysfunctions. Although the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood, various signaling pathways, such as those mediated by acetylcholine or kisspeptin, are affected by exposure to carbamates, thus compromising steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. Over the last decades, several studies, both in vitro and in vivo, have reported a myriad of negative effects of carbamates on the male reproductive system. In this review, an up-to-date overview of the impact of carbamates on the male reproductive system is discussed, with an emphasis on the role of these compounds on acetylcholine regulation and the male endocrine system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many industrial products, foodstuffs and environmental samples are checked for values of different chemical parameters against tolerance limits or intervals defined in a specification or legislation. In some cases, the measured values of the different parameters are correlated due to how materials are obtained, chemical constraints and/or due to the simple fact that determinations are performed by multi-analyte procedures that share analytical operations and effects. In these cases, instead of defining an acceptance criterion for each measured value on the tested item separately based on the respective measurement uncertainty, the multivariate problem should be addressed by defining multivariate criteria. These multivariate criteria are set for a maximum total risk of wrong conformity decisions that is a complex function of all particular risks of the item being rejected or accepted by comparing each measured value with its respective limit. Computational tools have been developed to estimate the total specific risk of an item being wrongly considered to conform or not to conform with tolerance limits for various components when the measured values are independent or correlated. However, these tools must be applied for each test to check if the total specific risk is acceptable. This work presents a tool for setting multivariate acceptance limits applicable to correlated measurements and referenced to a defined total specific risk. The acceptance limits allow the decision about conformity of an item based on the simple comparison of the measured values with the acceptance limits. The acceptance limits are estimated by a user-friendly and iterative tool implemented in a MS-Excel spreadsheet and available in the . This tool is successfully applied to various conformity problems. Acceptance limits based on informative and non-informative prior information are compared for a critical review of the merits and problems associated with Bayesian or frequentist conformity assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coconut mite Aceria guerreronis Keifer (Acari: Eriophyidae), is a destructive mite pest of coconut, causing significant economic losses. However, an effective pest management strategy requires a clear understanding of the geographical areas at risk of the target pest.Therefore, we predicted the potential global distribution A. guerreronis using a machine learning algorithm based on maximum entropy.The potential future distribution for A. guerreronis covered the 2040 and 2060 periods under two climate change emission scenarios (SSP1‐2.6 and SSP5‐8.5) in the context of the sixth assessment report (AR6) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.The MaxEnt model predicts the habitat suitability for A. guerreronis outside its present distribution, with suitable habitats in Oceania, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The habitat suitability for the pest will decrease from 2040 to 2060.The areas with the highest risk of A. guerreronis are those with an annual average temperature of around 25°C, mean annual precipitation of about 1459 mm, mean precipitation seasonality close to 64%, an average variation of daytime temperature of about 8.6°C, and mean seasonality of temperature of about 149.7°C.Our findings provide information for quarantine measures and policymaking, especially where A. guerreronis is presently still absent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify the global risk of invasion and establishment of Bedellia somnulentella, a pest of the sweet potato crop, for the present and future time, to develop policies and prevent future outbreaks. Current climate projections and future (2030, 2050, 2070, and 2100) of the insect B. somnulentella were carried out using CLIMEX. The projections showed that climate change could reduce areas of high aptitude for B. somnulentella in the parallel range of latitude 0°, the equator. On the other hand, temperate regions in the parallels with latitudes above 30°S and 30°N can increase hot and humid stress and become more suitable for the pest. This survey is based on weather data only. Data on land use and types, biotic interactions, diseases, natural enemies, alternative hosts, and competition were not considered for this model. Another uncertainty is associated with future levels of greenhouse gas emissions. The data presented here are helpful for the development of policies, studies, and strategies for the management of the B. somnulentella pest in the field. We encourage agricultural organizations in various countries to make strategic and long-term plans to avoid losses of millions of dollars through B. somnulentella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article synthesizes the undergraduate thesis - TCC defended at the Nova Andradina/MS History Course of the UFMS in early 2022. With this research we investigated a little-known facet in the history of Nova Andradina/MS: the presence of atheists and agnostics in the city. Based on the oral history methodology, we seek to analyze the identification of respondents in the field of religious disbelief and how it impacts social interactions in a municipality that has its history intertwined with the religious element. We verified through this research that there are a series of difficulties (family, social, work) for people to publicly identify themselves as atheists and agnostics in the city, resulting in the perception that atheism and agnosticism would be non-existent in Nova Andradina/MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Neotropical genus Quadraseta Brennan has 15 valid species associated with small mammals and birds. Quadraseta pazca (Brennan and Jones, 1964) is the type species chosen by Brennan (1970) to describe the genus Quadraseta. This species was originally described parasitizing murids in Argentina and later recorded parasitizing cricetids in two different Brazilian states, Minas Gerais and São Paulo. In this study, we provide a redescription of Q. pazca based on the type series. The following characters separate this species from the others within the genus: palptibia lateral setae branched; adoral setae branched; one pair of clavate trichobothria (si); leg I genu with three solenidia (σ); and the base of microseta (ε) of leg I tarsus is proximal to the base of solenidion (ω). In addition, we also provide new locality and host-association records for this species in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital transformation (DT) has changed the means and mechanisms for acquiring knowledge, meaning that higher education institutions (HEI) have changed the form of student-lecturer and teaching-learning interaction. Digital transformation must have a relevant role in building the hard skills (HS) necessary for academic entrepreneurship, where HS are easily taught and measured. This study analyses the basis of HS for digital academic entrepreneurship, answering the following research hypothesis: What are the hard skills—entrepreneurial education—for digital academic entrepreneurship and how are they formed? An extensive, inclusive literature review revealed that, due to the possibility of editing, reprogramming and generating digital technology, the basis of DT can support the development of HS in higher education students. The results show that HS can be developed considering three major pillars: (i) Management Tools, (ii) Digital Process, and (iii) Digital Products. Since HS are easily taught, this study shows how the use of digital technology can transform this scalable teaching process in order to reach the maximum number of students. It is therefore suggested that those in charge of HEIs use the pillars presented here in the framework proposed to guide their institutions' strategic planning. With these pillars in mind, the aim is to stimulate the development of innovative business proposals developed in the academic environment and promote digital academic entrepreneurship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A standardized language system can support the elaboration of clinical guidelines by matching information from similar patterns of response to people. To identify the factors that are related to a higher likelihood of an ineffective health management nursing diagnosis. Methods: We conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis. An electronic search was conducted in MEDLINE databases via PubMed, Web of Science, SciELO, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and Embase between October and November 2020. Descriptive data were extracted from each article. The odds ratios for each etiological factor related to ineffective health management were directly extracted from the articles or calculated from the data described in the articles. The analysis of the measurements of exposure and the magnitude of the effect was performed using the statistical software R, and a forest plot was constructed for each etiological factor. Findings: Ten studies were included, and 15 related factors were recovered from the primary studies. The factors that significantly increased the likelihood of an ineffective health management nursing diagnosis were insufficient knowledge of the therapeutic regimen, perceived barriers, powerlessness, economic disadvantage, and difficulty managing complex treatment regimens. No effect was verified with the following factors: decision conflict, family pattern of healthcare, and inadequate number of cues to action. Conclusion: Factors related to a higher likelihood of ineffective health management may be the focus of early and targeted nursing interventions, contributing to an improved quality of care. Clinical relevance: Understanding exposure to these factors can improve diagnostic reasoning at different population levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]