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Biomass energy is gaining attention as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels due to its potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. However, the storage of fuel-flexible biomass, particularly in environments characterized by fluctuations in temperature and humidity, can lead to the automatic release of pollutants, posing environmental and health concerns. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of peanut shells, spent coffee grains, and sugarcane leaves as additives for wood pellets to control off-gassing. Results showcased a sigmoidal nature in the generation of CO2 and degradation of extractives, indicating autogenous deterioration of the pellets. The Gompertz model effectively captured this behavior, enabling accurate estimation of alpha, beta, and k parameters. The control group exhibited an alpha value of 2995.4 mg kg−1, representing the maximum CO2 emissions or extractive degradation without additives. Incorporating peanut shells, spent coffee grains, and sugarcane leaves resulted in reduced alpha values of 2732.1, 2405.2, and 2472.4 mg kg−1, respectively, indicating their capacity to decrease specific CO2 emissions and decelerate extractive degradation. These findings suggest the antioxidant potential of the additives in mitigating CO2 emissions and extractive degradation processes. Enhancing pellet quality, manufacturing processes, and off-gassing control contribute to the viability of biomass energy as an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Our research contributes to sustainable biomass energy by endorsing biogenic additives as a solution to off-gassing. This holistic approach addresses critical environmental concerns while acknowledging the need for ongoing investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercialization of 2,4‐D (2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) latifolicide in 1945 marked the beginning of the selective herbicide market, with this active ingredient playing a pivotal role among commercial herbicides due to the natural tolerance of monocots compared with dicots. Due to its intricate mode of action, involving interactions within endogenous auxin signaling networks, 2,4‐D was initially considered a low‐risk herbicide to evolve weed resistance. However, the intensification of 2,4‐D use has contributed to the emergence of 2,4‐D‐resistant broadleaf weeds, challenging earlier beliefs. This review explores 2,4‐D tolerance in crops and evolved resistance in weeds, emphasizing an in‐depth understanding of 2,4‐D metabolic detoxification. Nine confirmed 2,4‐D‐resistant weed species, driven by rapid metabolism, highlight cytochrome P450 monooxygenases in Phase I and glycosyltransferases in Phase II as key enzymes. Resistance to 2,4‐D may also involve impaired translocation associated with mutations in auxin/indole‐3‐acetic acid (Aux/IAA) co‐receptor genes. Moreover, temperature variations affect 2,4‐D efficacy, with high temperatures increasing herbicide metabolism rates and reducing weed control, while drought stress did not affect 2,4‐D efficacy. Research on 2,4‐D resistance has primarily focused on non‐target‐site resistance (NTSR) mechanisms, including 2,4‐D metabolic detoxification, with limited exploration of the inheritance and genetic basis underlying these traits. Resistance to 2,4‐D in weeds is typically governed by a single gene, either dominant or incompletely dominant, raising questions about gain‐of‐function or loss‐of‐function mutations that confer resistance. Future research should unravel the physiological and molecular‐genetic basis of 2,4‐D NTSR, exploring potential cross‐resistance patterns and assessing fitness costs that may affect future evolution of auxin‐resistant weeds. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robotic technologies are affording opportunities to revolutionize the production of specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and horticulture). They offer the potential to automate tasks and save inputs such as labor, fertilizer, and pesticides. Specialty crops are well known for their high economic value and nutritional benefits, making their production particularly impactful. While previous review papers have discussed the evolution of agricultural robots in a general agricultural context, this review uniquely focuses on their application to specialty crops, a rapidly expanding area. Therefore, we aimed to develop a state-of-the-art review to scientifically contribute to the understanding of the following: (i) the primary areas of robots' application for specialty crops; (ii) the specific benefits they offer; (iii) their current limitations; and (iv) opportunities for future investigation. We formulated a comprehensive search strategy, leveraging Scopus® and Web of Science™ as databases and selecting "robot" and "specialty crops" as the main keywords. To follow a critical screening process, only peer-reviewed research papers were considered, resulting in the inclusion of 907 papers covering the period from 1988 to 2024. Each paper was thoroughly evaluated based on its title, abstract, keywords, methods, conclusions, and declarations. Our analysis revealed that interest in agricultural robots for specialty crops has significantly increased over the past decade, mainly driven by technological advancements in computer vision and recognition systems. Harvesting robots have arisen as the primary focus. Robots for spraying, pruning, weed control, pollination, transplanting, and fertilizing are emerging subjects to be addressed in further research and development (R&D) strategies. Ultimately, our findings serve to reveal the dynamics of agricultural robots in the world of specialty crops while supporting suitable practices for more sustainable and resilient agriculture, indicating a new era of innovation and efficiency in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the biocompatibility of dense and porous forms of Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), and their 75/25 blend for bone tissue engineering applications. The biomaterials were characterized morphologically using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the thickness and porosity of the scaffolds were determined. Functional assessments of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) included the MTT assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) production, and morphological and cytochemical analyses. Moreover, these polymers were implanted into rats to evaluate their in vivo performance. The morphology and FTIR spectra of the scaffolds were consistent with the expected results. Porous polymers were thicker than dense polymers, and porosity was higher than 92% in all samples. The cells exhibited good viability, activity, and growth on the scaffolds. A higher number of cells was observed on dense polymers, likely due to their smaller surface area. ALP production occurred in all samples, but enzyme activity was more intense in PCL samples. The scaffolds did not interfere with the osteogenic capacity of MSCs, and mineralized nodules were present in all samples. Histological analysis revealed new bone formation in all samples, although pure PHBV exhibited lower results compared to the other blends. In vivo results indicated that dense PCL and the dense 75/25 blend were the best materials tested, with PCL tending to improve the performance of PHBV in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The present work aimed to compare the effects of the standardized dry extract from the leaves of Monteverdia ilicifolia, popularly known as "espinheira-santa", with omeprazole in the management of dyspepsia related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: A double-blind, randomized, non-inferiority and double-dummy clinical trial was conducted. In total, 86 patients with GERD symptoms were randomized into three groups: Omeprazol (20 mg), M. ilicifolia (400 mg), or M. ilicifolia (860 mg). Capsules were provided by SUSTENTEC®, Pato Bragato, Brazil. It was requested that the participants take three capsules before breakfast and dinner for 4 weeks. Clinical outcomes were obtained at the beginning and end of the study, with GERD symptoms (QS-GERD), the impact of heartburn symptoms on quality of life (HBQOL), and medical records. Results: Overall, 75.6% of the participants showed adherence without any differences among the experimental groups. All groups had significant reductions in both QS-GERD and HBQOL scores. Omeprazole and 400 and 860 mg of M. ilicifolia decreased the QS-GERD total scores at the endpoint compared to the baseline (Chi-square = 129.808; p < 0.0001), as well as individual item scores, such as heartburn intensity (Chi-square = 93.568, p < 0.0001) and heartburn after meals (Chi-square = 126.426, p < 0.0001). There were no differences among the experimental groups after the intervention. Conclusions: Our results suggest that capsules with a standardized dry extract from the leaves of M. ilicifolia at a dosage of 400 or 860 mg are non-inferior to omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of two third-generation resorbable biomaterials—F18 bioglass and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP)—in promoting new bone formation in post-extraction sockets in rats. β-TCP, a synthetic porous ceramic, is well-established in clinical use, while F18 bioglass, a novel silica based bioglass. Methods: After extraction of the right upper incisor of 45 rats, the sockets were filled either with F18 or β-TCP, or left to naturally fill with a blood clot in control group. To quantify new bone formation, five animals from each group were euthanized at 7, 14, and 28 days post-extraction. Subsequently, the hemi-maxillae were analyzed using microtomography and histomorphometry. Results: Two-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in bone neoformation. β-TCP induced notably higher levels of new bone growth compared to the control group, as evidenced by microtomographic parameters such as bone volume (p = 0.033), bone surface (p = 0.039), and trabecular thickness (p = 0.002). F18 bioglass also induced higher new bone growth compared to the control group, evidenced by bone volume (p = 0.039). Although F18 bioglass did not significantly differ from the control group in other microtomographic parameters of new bone formation, its overall performance was comparable to that of β-TCP. Conclusion: β-TCP has proven to be effective in promoting new bone formation. Although F18 bioglass did not significantly differ from the control group in several microtomographic parameters, its overall capacity to promote new bone growth was comparable to that of β-TCP. This outcome supports the use of F18 bioglass as a promising alternative biomaterial for alveolar ridge preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are characterized by chronic inflammation, leading to increased inflammatory markers that can cause cell damage and death. Phase angle has emerged as a marker of cellular health. It is considered a prognostic factor in various acute and chronic conditions. However, few studies have examined its association with cardiovascular disease risk measures. This study aims to investigate the relationship between phase angle, the general Framingham risk score, and the HEARTS cardiovascular risk score. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a convenience sample of adult patients of 2 primary health care services. Phase angle was measured using multifrequency bioimpedance analysis at 50 kHz. The risk of cardiovascular events was calculated using the Framingham and HEARTS risk scores. Statistical analysis included generalized linear regression models, unadjusted and adjusted according to sex and age, to determine the association between scores, risk factors, and phase angle. Results: The study included 164 individuals with a mean age 52.2 (SD 17.9). According to the HEARTS score, low-risk patients had higher phase angle values than those with high or very high risk [ß = -0.57 (95% CI -0.95; -0.19), P = 0.003]. Framingham scores showed a trend toward significance for higher mean phase angle values in low-risk than high-risk patients [ß = -0.43 (95% CI -0.88 to 0.02), P = 0.06]. Conclusion: Phase angle values were lower in high and very high-risk patients than in low-risk patients, which shows that phase angle is a promising risk predictor for patients with cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary Care Physicians have a central role in assisting individuals with dementia and evaluating their preparedness to care these patients is fundamental. Our aim is to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes regarding dementia of the Primary Care Physicians (PCP) in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) state, Southern Brazil. Methods: We collected sociodemographic data, volume of patients with dementia treated/referred and perception of difficulties in caring for these patients. A previously validated questionnaire was sent: "Quiz on Knowledge and Attitudes in Dementia". Results: From March/2022 to June/2023, 296 PCP responded to the questionnaire. They were mostly women (52.7%, 156), with a median [IQR] age of 35 [29–44] years, mostly were White (82.1%, 243) and had 7 (4–16) years of experience as a physician. Less than half of the physicians performed cognitive screening (43.9%) and Mini Mental State Examination was the most screening (63.5%) test used. The mean percentage of correct answers in the Knowledge Quiz was 46.4%. In the attitude quiz, we identified 3 factors: 1) frankly positive attitudes; 2) perceive primary care as important but have a pessimistic attitude towards them; 3) see primary care as important for patient care. Conclusion: Knowledge about dementia is low among PCP in RS; however, most have positive attitudes towards these patients or think primary care is important to these patient's care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tebuthiuron (C9H16N4OS) offers farmers a cost-effective chemical solution to control weeds. Nevertheless, it can manifest as a hazardous organic compound to society and the environment as it escapes from agroecosystems into the surroundings via leaching and running off, polluting surface and underground water bodies. Hence, research was designed to analyze whether hydrochar can develop an adsorbent to remove it from an aqueous solution. Food waste was reacted with subcritical water at a stoichiometric 1:4 ratio (m v−1) and 1.5 M potassium hydroxide (KOH) at 10 g L−1 at 250 °C and 1.5 MPa for 2 h to produce porous hydrochar via simultaneous hydrothermal carbonization and chemical activation. The product at 25, 50, and 100 mg L−1 was tested for its ability to adsorb tebuthiuron (TBT) at 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mg L−1 by spectrophotometry. In addition, kinetic and isothermal models were applied to experimental data to describe the separation of the pollutant from the liquid-phase analytical environment. Equally significant, an ecotoxicological assay was developed to investigate its remediative potential; Lactuca sativa was employed as a testing organism, as it is responsive to TBT at phytotoxic residual quantity. Hydrochar significantly separated TBT from aqueous media. Such honeycomb-structured mesoporous carbonaceous matrix developed approximately 1420.1 m2 g−1 specific surface area and 0.05 cm3 g−1 total pore volume; hence, at the highest concentration, it adsorbed 98.65% of TBT at 1.5 mg L−1 through physical (e.g., pore filling and interparticle diffusion) or chemical (e.g., H-bonding, π-stacking, and metal-adsorbate complex) forces. In addition, it allowed seven adsorption-desorption cycles with 80% efficiency, supporting excellent regenerability. Equally significant, L. sativa germinated 76.6% on plates containing residual solution from sorption testing, validating the hydrochar for environmental bioremediation. Hence, it can advance the field's prominence in treating TBT by bioadsorption. It can offer stakeholders across agroindustries possibilities to remediate such a compound in aquatic environments, such as water and wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to ascertain utility and vision-related quality of life in patients awaiting access to specialist eye care. A secondary aim was to evaluate the association of utility indices with demographic profile and waiting time. Methods: Consecutive patients that had been waiting for ophthalmology care answered the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25). The questionnaire was administered when patients arrived at the clinics for their first visit. We derived a utility index (VFQ-UI) from the patients' responses, then calculated the correlation between this index and waiting time and compared utility across demographic subgroups stratified by age, sex, and care setting. Results: 536 individuals participated in the study (mean age 52.9±16.6 years; 370 women, 69% women). The median utility index was 0.85 (interquartile range [IQR] 0.70–0.92; minimum 0.40, maximum 0.97). The mean VFQ-25 score was 70.88±14.59. Utility correlated weakly and nonsignificantly with waiting time (-0.05, P = 0.24). It did not vary across age groups (P = 0.85) or care settings (P = 0.77). Utility was significantly lower for women (0.84, IQR 0.70–0.92) than men (0.87, IQR 0.73–0.93, P = 0.03), but the magnitude of this difference was small (Cohen's d = 0.13). Conclusion: Patients awaiting access to ophthalmology care had a utility index of 0.85 on a scale of 0 to 1. This measurement was not previously reported in the literature. Utility measures can provide insight into patients' perspectives and support economic health analyses and inform health policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southern distribution of Micronycteris sanborni became controversial after the description of Micronycteris yatesi based on specimens formerly reported as M. sanborni in Bolivia. It raised doubts on the identity of the southernmost specimen of M. sanborni reported from Serra da Bodoquena, Brazil. We rechecked the identification of this specimen and report four new records of M. sanborni from Serra da Bodoquena. External and craniodental features of all five examined specimens fit the current M. sanborni diagnosis, supporting this region as the southern boundary of its geographic range in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study aims to describe doubts regarding the diagnosis and treatment of syphilis in pregnancy among primary care professionals in a telehealth service. All teleconsultations (TCs) offered through TelessaúdeRS-UFRGS to primary health care (PHC) services in the state of Rio Grande do Sul between 2018 and 2021 involving syphilis in pregnancy were included. A total of 356 (TCs) were analyzed. The main doubts about syphilis during pregnancy raised by primary care professionals were related to the need for retreatment (35%), diagnostic definition (23%) and initial treatment (16%). In addition, 95% of TCs were suitable for diagnosing and treating syphilis based on the 2020 Brazilian Ministry of Health guideline. This study suggests that TCs can identify failures in the diagnosis and treatment of public health problems and support decision making in PHC involving syphilis in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incineration and landfilling offer possibilities for addressing high-rate management of COVID-waste streams. However, they can be costly and environmentally unsustainable. In addition, they do not allow to convert them to fuels and chemicals as waste-to-energy and waste-to-product technologies. Therefore, we analyzed whether integrating hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and pelletization can allow converting the surgical face mask (SFM) and biomass to composite plastic-fiber fuel (CPFF). We blended the plastic material and corncob, peanut shell, or sugarcane bagasse at the proportion of 50:50 (%, dry mass basis) for HTC. We performed the thermal pretreatment of blends in an autoclaving reactor at 180 °C and 1.5 MPa. Then we pelletized the hydrochars in a presser machine at 200 MPa and 125 °C. By analyzing the evidence from our study, we recognized the viability of combining the SFM and agricultural residues for CPFF from comparable technical features of our products to standards for premium-grade wood pellets. For instance, the elemental composition of their low-meltable ash was not stoichiometrically sufficient to severely produce slagging and fouling in the equipment for thermal conversion. Although they contained synthetic polymers in their structures, such as polyethylene from filter layers and nylon from the earloop, they emitted CO and NOx below the critical limits of 200 and 500 mg m−3, respectively, for occupational safety. Therefore, we extended the knowledge on waste-to-energy pathways to transform SFM into high-quality hybrid fuel by carbonization and pelletization. Our framework can provide stakeholders opportunities to address plastic and biogenic waste in the context of a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hybrid genetic search (HGS) metaheuristic has produced outstanding results for several variants of the vehicle routing problem. A recent implementation of HGS specialized to the capacitated vehicle routing problem (CVRP) is a state‐of‐the‐art method for this variant. This paper proposes an improved HGS for the CVRP obtained by incorporating a new solution generation method into its (re‐)initialization process to guide the search more efficiently and effectively. The solution generation method introduced in this work combines an approach based on frequent patterns extracted from good solutions by a data mining process and a randomized version of the Clarke and Wright savings heuristic. As observed in our experimental comparison, the proposed method significantly outperforms the original algorithm regarding the final gap to the best known solutions and the primal integral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anticipating the sugar content of sugarcane crop is a crucial aspect that holds the key to develop innovative data-driven solutions for determining the ideal time of mechanized harvest. However, traditional laboratory-based approaches are laborious, time-consuming, and limited in their scalability. Thus, we explored the potential of integrating multispectral data and cutting-edge artificial intelligence algorithms to predict the sugar content attributes of sugarcane, namely Brix and Purity. The sugarcane quality attributes were measured in a routine laboratory using 510 georeferenced samples from two commercial areas. Crop canopy reflectance values and growing degree days (GDD) were used as inputs on developing predictive models. Two artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, artificial neural network (ANN) and random forest (RF), and multiple linear regression (MLR) were performed to create the predictive models for mapping the sugarcane quality. The models' performance proved that RF regression was better for °Brix prediction. In contrast, Purity values were better predicted by ANN algorithm. GDD was the most important variable on performance of RF modeling for both outputs, followed by Green spectral band from satellite imagery. Timely results were achieved integrating satellite imagery and AI-based model on prediction of qualitative attributes for sugarcane. It can provide useful data layers to support site-specific management strategies within season by agroindustry and supporting the decision-making of harvesting in large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe loss of bone mass may require grafting, and, among the alternatives available, there are natural biomaterials that can act as scaffolds for the cell growth necessary for tissue regeneration. Collagen and elastin polymers are a good alternative due to their biomimetic properties of bone tissue, and their characteristics can be improved with the addition of polysaccharides such as chitosan and bioactive compounds such as jatoba resin and pomegranate extract due to their antigenic actions. The aim of this experimental protocol was to evaluate bone neoformation in experimentally made defects in the mandible of rats using polymeric scaffolds with plant extracts added. Thirty rats were divided into group 1, with a mandibular defect filled with a clot from the lesion and no graft implant (G1-C, n = 10); group 2, filled with collagen/chitosan/jatoba resin scaffolds (G2-CCJ, n = 10); and group 3, with collagen/nanohydroxyapatite/elastin/pomegranate extract scaffolds (G3-CHER, n = 10). Six weeks after surgery, the animals were euthanized and samples from the surgical areas were submitted to macroscopic, radiological, histological, and morphometric analysis of the mandibular lesion repair process. The results showed no inflammatory infiltrates in the surgical area, indicating good acceptance of the scaffolds in the microenvironment of the host area. In the control group (G1), there was a predominance of reactive connective tissue, while in the grafted groups (G2 and G3), there was bone formation from the margins of the lesion, but it was still insufficient for total bone repair of the defect within the experimental period standardized in this study. The histomorphometric analysis showed that the mean percentage of bone volume formed in the surgical area of groups G1, G2, and G3 was 17.17 ± 2.68, 27.45 ± 1.65, and 34.07 ± 0.64 (mean ± standard deviation), respectively. It can be concluded that these scaffolds with plant extracts added can be a viable alternative for bone repair, as they are easily manipulated, have a low production cost, and stimulate the formation of new bone by osteoconduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugar-energy sector is key to the provision of food and energy worldwide. However, it can largely generate mill-run bagasse as an agro-residual biomass. The tradition of the sector is to put it back into the industrial process as an alternative fuel to co-generate steam and power for milling and biorefining factories. However, excessive ash in the mineral phase of this material typically makes it challenging for burning it in boilers cost-effectively, driving the need of developing a more suitable pathway for its disposal. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze whether co-pelleting sugarcane bagasse with either pinewood sawdust or peanut shell could make it possible for transforming this low-technical-quality agro-residual biomass into a solid biofuel of superior quality. The production of pellets consisted of co-pressing sugarcane bagasse with either pinewood sawdust or peanut shell at the standard proportion of 50/50 on an automatic pelletizer at 200 MPa and 125°C. The blending improved the quality of biopellets. These products fulfilled the requirements of European standards for premium-grade solid biofuels. Blends proved to be highly energetic (15.1–15.35 GJ m−3) and durable (98.05–98.7%). They also emitted less of NOx (92.7–101.55 mg m−3), CO (59.05–63.2 mg m−3), and volatile organics (26.3–29.65 mg m−3), making it possible for the boiler to operate a clearer and safer way. Therefore, insights into the conceptual and technical ramifications of this study can provide further knowledge to progress the field's prominence in transforming sugarcane bagasse into a solid biofuel of greater quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Body size variation can have important evolutionary, physiological, functional, and ecological consequences. Body mass is a widely used size measure across different taxonomic groups, but it combines skeletal size with nutritional and reproductive status. In bats, forearm length is commonly used as a measure of skeletal size. However, body mass and forearm length are poorly correlated within species. This suggests that the two size variables are measuring different biological attributes. Here, we tested this hypothesis by evaluating the association between body mass, forearm length, and fitness components (survival and reproduction), derived from mark-recapture models, as well as their trends over a nine-year period in a population of short-tailed bats (Carollia perspicillata). Results showed a direct relationship between body mass, survival, and reproduction, and an inverse relationship between forearm length, survival, and reproduction. Different temporal trends in the size variables were observed according to sex and age. Males showed a trend of increasing average mass over the years. In adults, average forearm length decreased over the years, whereas juveniles showed an increasing trend. Our results showed that body mass and forearm length have distinct evolutionary dynamics and proximal mechanisms of change. Forearm length is a measure of wing size and should not be used as a proxy for body size in intraspecific studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Golden Parakeet is an endemic Brazilian flagship species that has suffered from poaching and habitat loss, leading to local extinctions in the urbanized parts of the Amazon. We reintroduced six groups of mostly captive-bred parakeets in a protected area. The birds were acclimatized for at least five months at the release site, where they were trained to recognize native foods and develop foraging skills. Subsequently, we conducted a soft release, followed by daily supplementation and monitoring. For three years following the release we recorded their diet, feeding behavior, and how they adapted to wild foraging. The reintroduced birds fed on 23 plant species, with 13 not being previously listed in past studies. The three most consumed species corresponded to 77% of their feeding records. Parakeets spent more time feeding in altered landscapes and secondary vegetation than in the preserved forest. Most of the feeding happened during the rainy season when most of their favorite plants are fruiting. The parakeets' incorporation of new species in their diet and their transition from supplemental to natural feeding happened gradually, as we did not reduce food offerings. Parakeets that showed site fidelity were able to find native food rapidly following release, but individuals that dispersed immediately had more difficulty finding food. This study showed that captive-bred Golden Parakeets can transition to a wild diet following a gradual reintroduction process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:The factors necessitating the need for referrals for in-person evaluations by a dermatologist are not adequately understood and have not been studied using automated text mining so far. The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of required in-person dermatologist care in the presence or absence of certain clinical features. Methods:Observational cross-sectional study of 11,661 teledermatology reports made from February 2017 to March 2020. Results:The need for dermoscopy was associated with a 348% increase in the possibility of referral for in-person dermatologist evaluations (prevalence ratio [PR]: 4.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.17–4.82). Infectious diseases were associated with a 64% lower possibility of referral (PR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.30–0.43). Discussion:Some lesions and poorly documented cases are challenging to assess remotely. This study presents a different approach to research more detailed data from teledermatology reports, using text mining, and points out the risk magnitude for demanding dermatologic in-person care of which feature analyzed. As limitations, the variables related to lesion location, size, and extension were not analyzed and the dictionaries used were originally in Brazilian Portuguese. Conclusions:Teledermatology seems sufficient for the management of 75% of clinical cases, especially acute in young patients with inflammatory or infectious lesions. Referrals for in-person dermatologist consultations were not only strongly associated with the need for dermoscopy, but also for therapeutic reasons like surgical procedures, phototherapy, and the use of some systemic medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous work has shown that the performance of metaheuristics can benefit from using data mining techniques, which can improve the obtained solutions. In a strategy that has been successfully used for over a decade, data mining techniques are applied to extract patterns from good solutions found in the early stages of the heuristic process, and these patterns are introduced into the solutions generated afterwards. Recently, a novel approach that uses data mining for problem size reduction, called MineReduce, has been proposed and achieved even more impressive results in improving metaheuristics. In this work, we apply the MineReduce approach to improve the performance of a multi-start iterated tabu search algorithm. The results show that with the incorporation of the MineReduce approach, the method can obtain better solutions while spending less time. Additionally, we assessed the effectiveness of the size reduction performed by MineReduce, comparing it to a kernelization algorithm. Despite the lack of guarantees on optimality or size-bounding, the reduction carried out by MineReduce was effective in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the production of Pimelodidae catfish in the Amazon are generally carried out in large fishing centers. However, the data referring to small-scale fisheries have gaps that can represent a risk to the activity. This study evaluated the volume produced and the revenue obtained from migratory catfish of the Pimelodidae family of commercial interest landed in Humaitá, Amazonas, Brazil, from May 2018 to April 2019. Daily monitoring was carried out with the Z-31 Fishermen's Colony through questionnaires to fishermen for each vessel docked. The total production was 6013.93 kg, with 1,689 fish counted and 13 species. A total of 186 landings by 122 fishermen in 24 fishing sites characterized as rivers, lakes, and "igarapés" were evaluated. The average selling price was R$5.57/kg, and the highest volumes were obtained from July to September, mainly with gillnets, where the "Surubim" Pseudoplatystoma punticfer had the highest volume and revenue. Low productivity was verified in most localities, characterizing the fishing as artisanal. The lack of adequate conditions for storing and transporting fish, the local hydrological variations, and the presence of hydroelectric plants on the Madeira River are major factors limiting the fishing expansion in southern Amazonas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical education has evolved based on the application of pedagogical actions that place the student as the protagonist of the learning process through the use of active teaching methodologies. Within this context, higher education teachers should use strategies that focus on the student and his/her context and avoid traditional teaching methods. Specifically in medical schools, there is an even greater challenge since the teaching methods of medical curricula differ from those used in previous schooling. Consequently, students acquire their own style of processing information that is often incompatible with the profile of medical schools. This may be one of the factors responsible for the lack of motivation among undergraduates. Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize the learning styles of students enrolled in a Brazilian medical school using the Felder-Soloman Index of Learning Styles (ILS). Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, quantitative study that included students from the 1st to the 6th year of a Brazilian medical school. The students participating in this study voluntarily answered 44 questions about learning styles of the Felder-Silverman instrument validated in Brazil. The instrument was divided so that each domain consisted of 11 questions with two response options in which only one could be selected. For each domain, a score (1 point) was assigned to the selected option (a, b) of the question and the learning style category was determined as the difference between these values. For data collection and tabulation, we used the Learning Syle Platform (EdA Platform) developed based on Felder's studies since this system processes information about the dimension analyzed, the preferred style, and the most striking characteristics of each style. Results: The results showed that sensing was the preferred learning style of the students, followed by the sequential and visual styles. It was not possible to determine whether gender or age influences the choice of learning methods because of the homogeneity of the results. Conclusions: The present data will enable teachers of the institution involved in this study to plan pedagogical actions that improve the students' self-awareness, as well as their teaching-learning skills, by choosing the most adequate active methodologies for the medical education programs considering the individuality of each student and class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a significant complication in critical care patients. COVID-19 (C19)-associated severe respiratory failure is related to it, and d-dimer rise predicts a worse outcome. To investigate the association between d-dimer and the severity of this respiratory syndrome, we conducted a study in C19 intubated patients. A retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted with 64 C19 adult intubated patients. Strata of d-dimer results between patients was evaluated using survival analysis. Survival was higher in mild respiratory distress patients. D-dimer showed poor sensitivity and specificity in predicting respiratory failure severity. Risk assessment for death showed a higher prevalence of admission d-dimer results (HR 1.335; 95% CI 0.695-2.564). Our sample confidently represented the medical profile of C19 severe patients. Sepsis development in C19 is associated with the inflammatory storm in respiratory distress syndrome. As the receiver operating curves show, the increase in d-dimer results is consistent with inflammation rather than a prognostic biomarker. As expected, severe respiratory distress patients presented higher mortality. In summary, d-dimer results are not associated with the prognosis of C19 respiratory distress syndrome patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:Nurses have proven to be fundamental for the expansion and consolidation of primary health care (PHC), as well as the development of digital health strategies. We explored the results of a synchronous telephone teleconsultations service between professionals for nurses in Brazil. Methods:This is a cross-sectional study. We retrieved data from teleconsultations registry. All teleconsultations answered by the team of nurses between September 2018 and July 2021 were analyzed regarding the reasons (according to International Classification of Primary Care, 2nd edition—ICPC-2) and decisions of the teleconsultation. Results:There were 9,273 phone teleconsultations registered in the period, requested by 3,125 nurses from all states throughout the country, of which 56.9% called once and 15.9% used the teleconsultations at least 4 times. We found 362 different reasons for solicitations, which were classified according to the ICPC-2 chapters. The most frequent codes were respiratory (25.9%), general and unspecified (21.2%), and skin (21.2%), which corresponded to 68% of the total sample. Most teleconsultations (66.9%) had as outcome the maintenance of the case at PHC. Conclusion:Teleconsultations are widely used and address a broad number of situations. This service may improve the quality of Brazilian PHC and promote the development of clinical reasoning and critical thinking by nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extratropical cyclones play an important role in shaping the weather and climate over vast regions across the globe. To effectively understand and manage the impact of these meteorological events, it is crucial to explore deeper into their structure and behaviour. Here, we have evaluated the characteristics and spatial distribution of extratropical cyclones that had their genesis in the Southern Ocean (SO) in the present climate, based on data from the HadGEM3‐GC3.1‐MM (HG3) global model and the ERA5 reanalysis. Both in winter and summer, cyclone tracks are spatially structured, forming a belt around the entire Antarctic continent, with greater concentration in the SO sector adjacent to the southern Pacific Ocean. The regions of the Somov, Amundsen and Bellingshausen seas exhibited a higher track density of moderate and strong cyclones, indicating a correlation with the strongest baroclinicity in these areas. In both datasets, the maximum occurrence of cyclogenesis was located over the regions of the Somov Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula, making these regions very important in the general configuration of cyclones along the SO. Despite underestimating the total number of cyclones along the SO, the HG3 model showed a good ability to represent the main patterns of cyclonic activity around the Antarctic continent, as well as its average behaviour. Knowing the characteristics and the behaviour of extratropical cyclones in such an important area for global climate is essential for understanding their role in weather and future climate resulting from climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, bismuth oxychloride with a rose‐type flower shape was successfully synthesised using the easy and low‐cost successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction process. The tetragonal crystalline structure with a flower‐like shape and thickness of 150‐nm nanosheets was used as electrode material in an exciting approach for the photoelectrochemical discoloration reaction of methyl orange. The structure, morphology and optical properties of the obtained bismuth oxychloride sample were evaluated through X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method, diffuse reflectance ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Through photoelectrochemical characterisation measurements (linear sweep voltammetry, chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques), the bismuth oxychloride electrode showed remarkable electroactivity under ultraviolet light irradiation. The methyl orange discoloration reaction, performed under ultraviolet light incidence and potential application of −0.5 V (vs silver/silver chloride) for 60 minutes, produced a higher degradation percentage (ca. 82%) and kobs of 29 × 10−3 min−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) can be a sustainable strategy to increase phosphorus availability and promote satisfactory crop yields. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether inoculation with PSB in common bean increases (i) growth, (ii) nutrition, (iii) yield, and (iv) grain quality, and (v) reduces the chemical phosphorus application dose to obtain maximum yields. The experiment was conducted in an Oxisol using a randomized block design in a 4 × 4 factorial scheme, with four replicates, using the cultivar IAC 2051. The first factor was four doses of P2O5 (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg ha−1), and the second factor was four doses of PSB (0, 100, 200 and 300 mL ha−1). For leaf area and leaf chlorophyll content, the association of PSB inoculation with a P2O5 dose of 40 kg ha−1 promoted the best conditions for the common bean. P2O5 application increased yield by 79 kg ha−1 for each 10 kg ha−1 added. PSB inoculation at a dose of 192 mL ha−1 promoted P export of 15.3 kg ha−1, and the PSB dose of 159 mL ha−1 increased yield by 389 kg ha−1 (12%) compared to the control. Grain quality remained within the standards required by the consumer market, being little affected by the treatments. Improvements in common bean growth and nutritional and physiological status promoted by P2O5 application and PSB were essential in increasing yield, so these are sustainable production strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus thuringiensis is a Gram-positive aerobic bacterium and the most used biopesticide worldwide. Given the importance of B. thuringiensis strain characterization for the development of new bioinsecticides or transgenic events and the identification and classification of new B. thuringiensis genes and strains to understand its distribution and diversity, this work is aimed at creating a gene identification system based on qPCR reactions utilizing core B. thuringiensis genes cry1, cry2, cry3, cry4, cry5, app6, cry7, cry8, cry9, cry10, cry11, vpb1, vpa2, vip3, cyt1, and cyt2 for the characterization of 257 strains of B. thuringiensis. This system was based on the Invertebrate Bacteria Collection from Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology and analyzed (a) the degree of correlation between the distribution of these strains and the origin of the substrate from which the strain was isolated and (b) between its distribution and geoclimatic conditions. This study made it possible to observe that the cry1, cry2, and vip3A/B genes occur homogeneously in the Brazilian territory, and some genes are found in specific regions. The biggest reservoir of variability is within B. thuringiensis strains in each region, and it is suggested that both geoclimatic conditions and regional crops interfere with the genetic diversity of the B. thuringiensis strains present in the region, and B. thuringiensis strains can constantly exchange genetic information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone lesions have the capacity for regeneration under normal conditions of the bone metabolism process. However, due to the increasing incidence of major traumas and diseases that cause bone-mineral deficiency, such as osteoporosis, scaffolds are needed that can assist in the bone regeneration process. Currently, natural polymeric scaffolds and bioactive nanoparticles stand out. Therefore, the objective of the study was to evaluate the osteoregenerative potential in tibiae of healthy and ovariectomized rats using mineralized collagen and nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) scaffolds associated with elastin. The in-vivo experimental study was performed with 60 20-week-old Wistar rats, distributed into non-ovariectomized (NO) and ovariectomized (O) groups, as follows: Controls (G1-NO-C and G4-O-C); Collagen with nHA scaffold (G2-NO-MSH and G5-O-MSH); and Collagen with nHA and elastin scaffold (G3-NO-MSHC and G6-O-MSHC). The animals were euthanized 6 weeks after surgery and the samples were analyzed by macroscopy, radiology, and histomorphometry. ANOVA and Tukey tests were performed with a 95% CI and a significance index of p < 0.05. In the histological analyses, it was possible to observe new bone formed with an organized and compact morphology that was rich in osteocytes and with maturity characteristics. This is compatible with osteoconductivity in both matrices (MSH and MSHC) in rats with normal conditions of bone metabolism and with gonadal deficiency. Furthermore, they demonstrated superior osteogenic potential when compared to control groups. There was no significant difference in the rate of new bone formation between the scaffolds. Ovariectomy did not exacerbate the immune response but negatively influenced the bone-defect repair process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Resistance to 2,4‐Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) has been reported in several weed species since the 1950s; however, a biotype of Conyza sumatrensis showing a novel physiology of the rapid response minutes after herbicide application was reported in 2017. The objective of this research was to investigate the mechanisms of resistance and identify transcripts associated with the rapid physiological response of C. sumatrensis to 2,4‐D herbicide. Results: Differences were found in 2,4‐D absorption between the resistant and susceptible biotypes. Herbicide translocation was reduced in the resistant biotype compared to the susceptible. In resistant plants 98.8% of [14C] 2,4‐D was found in the treated leaf, whereas ≈13% translocated to other plant parts in the susceptible biotype at 96 h after treatment. Resistant plants did not metabolize [14C] 2,4‐D and had only intact [14C] 2,4‐D at 96 h after application, whereas susceptible plants metabolized [14C] 2,4‐D into four detected metabolites, consistent with reversible conjugation metabolites found in other 2,4‐D sensitive plant species. Pre‐treatment with the cytochrome P450 inhibitor malathion did not enhance 2,4‐D sensitivity in either biotype. Following treatment with 2,4‐D, resistant plants showed increased expression of transcripts within plant defense response and hypersensitivity pathways, whereas both sensitive and resistant plants showed increased expression of auxin‐response transcripts. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that reduced 2,4‐D translocation contributes to resistance in the C. sumatrensis biotype. The reduction in 2,4‐D transport is likely to be a consequence of the rapid physiological response to 2,4‐D in resistant C. sumatrensis. Resistant plants had increased expression of auxin‐responsive transcripts, indicating that a target‐site mechanism is unlikely. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on functional performance are important to understand the processes responsible for the evolution of diversity. Morphological trait variation within species influences the energetic cost of locomotion and impacts life history traits, with ecological and evolutionary consequences. This study examined wing morphology correlates of flight performance measured by energetic expenditure in the Seba's short‐tailed bat, Carollia perspicillata. In the flight experiments, nature caught bats (59 females, 57 males) were allowed to fly for 3 min in a room. After each flight, thermographic images were taken to measure body temperature, and biophysical models were used to calculate sensible heat loss as a measure of energetic expenditure. Wing morphological traits were measured for each individual and associated with heat loss and power required to fly on performance surfaces. Wing morphological traits explained 7–10% of flight energetic cost, and morphologies with the best performance would save the energy equivalent to 9–30% of total daily requirements. The optimal performance areas within the C. perspicillata morphospace were consistent with predicted selection trends from the literature. A trade‐off between demands for flight speed and maneuverability was observed. Wing loading and camber presented sexual dimorphism. These morphological differences are likely associated with more economical but less maneuverable flight in females, leading them to fly more often in open areas along the forest edge. Our findings demonstrate how small scale changes in wing morphology can affect life history strategies and fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The value of climate information has been explored by various scholars and in various sectors, but its operational use, particularly in water resources management, in countries like Brazil remains limited. This article describes climate and inflow forecast systems used in the process of water allocation in the state of Ceará (Brazil) and evaluates their performance at three key reservoirs in the state for forecasts issued in January for the period from January to May when most of the annual rainfall and inflows occur. To illustrate the value of forecasting in the water-allocation process, a simple experiment based on the use of a decision support system (DSS) is carried out. The use of the DSS SIGA with inflows estimated from observations and forecasts demonstrated the value of forecasts in the process of water allocation, as the forecasts allowed for better identification of end-of-the-year reservoir volumes. The use of the forecast system successfully described the variability of the percentage of demands met and the demands identified using estimated inflows, in particular for the Banabuiú and Castanhão Reservoirs. Overall, the results of this study highlight the importance of climatic-hydrological forecasting in the process of water allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural polymers are increasingly being used in tissue engineering due to their ability to mimic the extracellular matrix and to act as a scaffold for cell growth, as well as their possible combination with other osteogenic factors, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from dental pulp, in an attempt to enhance bone regeneration during the healing of a bone defect. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the repair of mandibular defects filled with a new collagen/chitosan scaffold, seeded or not with MSCs derived from dental pulp. Twenty-eight rats were submitted to surgery for creation of a defect in the right mandibular ramus and divided into the following groups: G1 (control group; mandibular defect with clot); G2 (defect filled with dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells—DPSCs); G3 (defect filled with collagen/chitosan scaffold); and G4 (collagen/chitosan scaffold seeded with DPSCs). The analysis of the scaffold microstructure showed a homogenous material with an adequate percentage of porosity. Macroscopic and radiological examination of the defect area after 6 weeks post-surgery revealed the absence of complete repair, as well as absence of signs of infection, which could indicate rejection of the implants. Histomorphometric analysis of the mandibular defect area showed that bone formation occurred in a centripetal fashion, starting from the borders and progressing towards the center of the defect in all groups. Lower bone formation was observed in G1 when compared to the other groups and G2 exhibited greater osteoregenerative capacity, followed by G4 and G3. In conclusion, the scaffold used showed osteoconductivity, no foreign body reaction, malleability and ease of manipulation, but did not obtain promising results for association with DPSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with a global real-time kinematic navigation satellite system (GNSS RTK) could be a state-of-the-art solution to measuring gaps in sugarcane fields and enable site-specific management. Recent studies recommend the use of UAVs to map these gaps. However, low-accuracy GNSS provides incomplete or inaccurate photogrammetric reconstructions, which could easily generate an error in the gap measurement and constrain the applicability of these techniques. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the potential of UAV RTK imagery for mapping gaps in sugarcane. To compare this solution with conventional UAV approaches, the precision and accuracy of RTK and non-RTK flights were evaluated. To increase the robustness of the research, flights were performed to map gaps found naturally in the field and with plants at different stages of development. Our results showed that the lengths of gaps identified by both RTK and non-RTK UAV imagery were similar, with differences in precision and accuracy of about 1% for both systems. In contrast, RTK was much more efficient and provides stakeholders with guidelines for accurate and precise mapping gaps, allowing them to make confident decisions on site-specific management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a neurodegenerative and vascular pathology that is considered one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, resulting from complications of advanced diabetes mellitus (DM). Current therapies consist of protocols aiming to alleviate the existing clinical signs associated with microvascular alterations limited to the advanced disease stages. In response to the low resolution and limitations of the DR treatment, there is an urgent need to develop more effective alternative therapies to optimize glycemic, vascular, and neuronal parameters, including the reduction in the cellular damage promoted by inflammation and oxidative stress. Recent evidence has shown that dietary polyphenols reduce oxidative and inflammatory parameters of various diseases by modulating multiple cell signaling pathways and gene expression, contributing to the improvement of several chronic diseases, including metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. However, despite the growing evidence for the bioactivities of phenolic compounds, there is still a lack of data, especially from human studies, on the therapeutic potential of these substances. This review aims to comprehensively describe and clarify the effects of dietary phenolic compounds on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in DR, especially those of oxidative and inflammatory nature, through evidence from experimental studies. Finally, the review highlights the potential of dietary phenolic compounds as a prophylactic and therapeutic strategy and the need for further clinical studies approaching the efficacy of these substances in DR management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective was to evaluate the effect of a mobile health (mHealth) intervention on lifestyle adherence and anthropometric characteristics among individuals with uncontrolled hypertension. We performed a randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03005470) where all participants received lifestyle counseling at baseline and were randomly allocated to receive (1) an automatic oscillometric device to measure and register blood pressure (BP) via a mobile application, (2) personalized text messages to stimulate lifestyle changes, (3) both mHealth interventions, or (4) usual clinical treatment (UCT) without technology (control). The outcomes were achieved for at least four of five lifestyle goals (weight loss, not smoking, physical activity, moderate or stopping alcohol consumption, and improving diet quality) and improved anthropometric characteristics at six months. mHealth groups were pooled for the analysis. Among 231 randomized participants (187 in the mHealth group and 45 in the control group), the mean age was 55.4 ± 9.5 years, and 51.9% were men. At six months, achieving at least four of five lifestyle goals was 2.51 times more likely (95% CI: 1.26; 5.00, p = 0.009) to be achieved among participants receiving mHealth interventions. The between-group difference reached clinically relevant, but marginally significant, reduction in body fat (−4.05 kg 95% CI: −8.14; 0.03, p = 0.052), segmental trunk fat (−1.69 kg 95% CI: −3.50; 0.12, p = 0.067), and WC (−4.36 cm 95% CI: −8.81; 0.082, p = 0.054), favoring the intervention group. In conclusion, a six-month lifestyle intervention supported by application-based BP monitoring and text messages significantly improves adherence to lifestyle goals and is likely to reduce some anthropometric characteristics in comparison with the control without technology support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Studies on converting biomass into an adsorbent often are available from the contemporary academic literature. However, no in-depth systematic investigation exists on the possibility of strategically recycling food waste and the residual ash of its hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) into pellets for the purpose of physical sorption. Therefore, the objective of this study was to transform hydrochar of food waste and its residual ash into high-throughput carbon-capturing frameworks via an integrative HTC-pelletization approach. The pilot-scale manufacturing of adsorbents consisted of carbonizing food waste at 200.00 °C and 1.50 MPa for 2.00 h then pressing its powdery hydrochar, residual ash and spent peanut grain (SPG) together on an automatic pelletizer machine at 75.00-100.00 MPa and 150.00 °C for 90.00 s. The addition of ash as an inorganic dopant structured-up functional gas-binding alkaline sites, such as N, S, SiO2, and Al2O3, onto the surface of pellets. Hence, it enabled them to effectively encapsulate 8.90 mmol CO2 g−1. Co-addition of SPG slightly limited the physisorption to 7.50 mmol CO2 g−1. However, the organic binder, by its powerful stickness, proved useful to enhance the regenerability (>99.00%) of the material over multiple cycles of swinging CO2 to N2 to simulate adsorption and desorption, respectively. Therefore, insights into ramifications of the integrative HTC-pelletization approach are timely. They can provide forward knowledge of relevance to progress in the field's prominence in elaborating high-throughput physisorption via carbon-to-waste pathways. However, further research is necessary to analyze whether it is feasible or not to bring carbon-capturing pellets into implementation at industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Regional Atmospheric Modelling System (RAMS) driven by data from the CMIP5 Earth System Model HadGEM2‐ES was used to simulate daily precipitation over the tropical Americas for both current and future climate, including distinct scenarios (representative concentration pathways 4.5 and 8.5) and different time horizons (short‐term, mid‐term and long‐term changes). The major objective was to evaluate possible future changes in extreme events, with emphasis on the intensity of precipitation events and the duration of wet and dry spells. According to RAMS, longer dry spells are expected over most regions of the tropical Americas in the future, with indications for Northeast Brazil, Caribbean, Northern Amazon, and shorter wet spells over Central America and Amazon. With the exception of the Caribbean, there is a general tendency towards the increased frequency of intense precipitation in the tropical Americas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RNA viruses are known to induce a wide variety of respiratory tract illnesses, from simple colds to the latest coronavirus pandemic, causing effects on public health and the economy worldwide. Influenza virus (IV), parainfluenza virus (PIV), metapneumovirus (MPV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus (RhV), and coronavirus (CoV) are some of the most notable RNA viruses. Despite efforts, due to the high mutation rate, there are still no effective and scalable treatments that accompany the rapid emergence of new diseases associated with respiratory RNA viruses. Host-directed therapies have been applied to combat RNA virus infections by interfering with host cell factors that enhance the ability of immune cells to respond against those pathogens. The reprogramming of immune cell metabolism has recently emerged as a central mechanism in orchestrated immunity against respiratory viruses. Therefore, understanding the metabolic signature of immune cells during virus infection may be a promising tool for developing host-directed therapies. In this review, we revisit recent findings on the immunometabolic modulation in response to infection and discuss how these metabolic pathways may be used as targets for new therapies to combat illnesses caused by respiratory RNA viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Google Scholar Crossref Search ADS WorldCat 14 Smith GF, Figueiredo E. "Rhodes-" must fall: Some of the consequences of colonialism for botany and plant nomenclature. Recently, the ICZN Commissioners ([3]) issued a formal statement signalling their resistance to promoting the replacement of specific epithets honouring historical figures who, for example, advocated racist and/or sexist views, or were otherwise associated with unethical behaviour. Kant unequivocally demonstrated that we could never be sure how our propositions relate to the real world. [Extracted from the article]

Predicting sugarcane yield by quality allows stakeholders from research centers to industries to decide on the precise time and place to harvest a product on the field; hence, it can streamline workflow while leveling up the cost-effectiveness of fullscale production. °Brix and Purity can offer significant and reliable indicators of highquality raw material for industrial processing for food and fuel. However, their analysis in a relevant laboratory can be costly, time-consuming, and not scalable. We, therefore, analyzed whether merging multispectral images and machine learning (ML) algorithms can develop a non-invasive, predictive framework to map canopy reflectance to °Brix and Purity. We acquired multispectral images data of a sugarcane-producing area via unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) while determining ° Brix and analytical Purity from juice in a routine laboratory. We then tested a suite of ML algorithms, namely multiple linear regression (MLR), randomforest (RF), decision tree (DT), and support vector machine (SVM) for adequacy and complexity in predicting °Brix and Purity upon single spectral bands, vegetation indices (VIs), and growing degree days (GDD). We obtained evidence for biophysical functions accurately predicting °Brix and Purity. Those can bring at least 80% of adequacy to the modeling. Therefore, our study represents progress in assessing and monitoring sugarcane on an industrial scale. Our insights can offer stakeholders possibilities to develop prescriptive harvesting and resource-effective, high-performance manufacturing lines for by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lesions with bone loss may require autologous grafts, which are considered the gold standard; however, natural or synthetic biomaterials are alternatives that can be used in clinical situations that require support for bone neoformation. Collagen and hydroxyapatite have been used for bone repair based on the concept of biomimetics, which can be combined with chitosan, forming a scaffold for cell adhesion and growth. However, osteoporosis caused by gonadal hormone deficiency can thus compromise the expected results of the osseointegration of scaffolds. The aim of this study was to investigate the osteoregenerative capacity of collagen (Co)/chitosan (Ch)/hydroxyapatite (Ha) scaffolds in rats with hormone deficiency caused by experimental bilateral ovariectomy. Forty-two rats were divided into non-ovariectomized (NO) and ovariectomized (O) groups, divided into three subgroups: control (empty defect) and two subgroups receiving collagen/chitosan/hydroxyapatite scaffolds prepared using different methods of hydroxyapatite incorporation, in situ (CoChHa1) and ex situ (CoChHa2). The defect areas were submitted to macroscopic, radiological, and histomorphometric analysis. No inflammatory processes were found in the tibial defect area that would indicate immune rejection of the scaffolds, thus confirming the biocompatibility of the biomaterials. Bone formation starting from the margins of the bone defect were observed in all rats, with a greater volume in the NO groups, particularly the group receiving CoChHa2. Less bone formation was found in the O subgroups when compared to the NO. In conclusion, collagen/chitosan/hydroxyapatite scaffolds stimulate bone growth in vivo but abnormal conditions of bone fragility caused by gonadal hormone deficiency may have delayed the bone repair process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin is a dietary flavonoid present in vegetables, fruits, and beverages, such as onions, apples, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, tea, and red wine. Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, acting in the prevention of several diseases. Quercetin also has neuroprotective properties and may exert a beneficial effect on nervous tissue. In this literature review, we compiled in vivo studies that investigated the effect of quercetin on regeneration and functional recovery of the central and peripheral nervous system. In spinal cord injuries (SCI), quercetin administration favored axonal regeneration and recovery of locomotor capacity, significantly improving electrophysiological parameters. Quercetin reduced edema, neutrophil infiltration, cystic cavity formation, reactive oxygen species production, and pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis, while favoring an increase in levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, minimizing tissue damage in SCI models. In addition, the association of quercetin with mesenchymal stromal cells transplantation had a synergistic neuroprotective effect on spinal cord injury. Similarly, in sciatic nerve injuries, quercetin favored and accelerated sensory and motor recovery, reducing muscle atrophy. In these models, quercetin significantly inhibited oxidative stress and cell apoptosis, favoring Schwann cell proliferation and nerve fiber remyelination, thus promoting a significant increase in the number and diameter of myelinated fibers. Although there is still a lack of clinical research, in vivo studies have shown that quercetin contributed to the recovery of neurological functions, exerting a beneficial effect on the regeneration of the central and peripheral nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the biological factors of an injury is beyond the aspects that caused this condition in the athlete. Thus, the aim of this study is to develop a solid understanding of the biology associated with the development of an injury derived from the practice of physical exercise and its related aspects. It is verified that the harmful processes affect countless strength training practitioners throughout their periodizations. These injuries lead to departures from the training routine and delays in the development of the practitioners' goals. Lesions mainly affect joint structures, with synovial joints being among the most affected. Reduced muscle strength and impaired mobility are among the factors that contribute to the development of joint damage. Bone injuries are also among the most present in the population practicing physical training, and these are caused by microfractures derived from shear loads common in contact sports. Muscle strengthening, including training variables and biomechanical techniques, help to reduce the incidence of injuries and in their treatment when they are already installed in the physical exercise practitioner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The spinous foramen (FS) of the skull is an opening located in the greater wing of the sphenoid bone at the base of the skull, and it includes the middle meningeal vessels and the meningeal branch of the mandibular trigeminal nerve. The FS is commonly used as an anatomical landmark in neurosurgical procedures and neuroimaging of the middle cranial fossa because of its relationship with other cranial foramina and surrounding vascular and nervous structures. Thus, specific knowledge of its topography and possible anatomical variations is important regarding some surgical interventions and skull imaging. The aim of this study was to provide further details on the morphology of the FS of the skull by evaluating its topographic and morphometric relationships and correlating the findings with clinical practice. Materials and Methods: Thirty dried skulls of human skeletons from body donors from the collection of the Laboratory of Anatomical Microdissection at a medical school were used. The metric dimensions and variations of the FS and its relationship with adjacent bone structures were analyzed with an interface digital microscope. Results: The results showed the bilateral presence of the FS in all skulls; however, differences were observed in the shape, diameter, and topography in relation to the foramen ovale and the spine of the sphenoid. The FS was present in the greater wing of the sphenoid bone; however, in one skull, it was located in the lateral lamina of the pterygoid process. The FS was smaller than the foramen ovale. A round and oval FS shape was the most common (42.1% and 32.8% of the samples, respectively), followed by drop-shaped (12.5%) and irregular-shaped (12.5%) foramina. Conclusions: In conclusion, FS variations among individuals are common and must be considered by surgeons during skull base interventions in order to avoid accidents and postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This analytical, cross-sectional, observational study aimed to evaluate the perception of dentists working at the public system of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil, regarding academic training to treat oral lesions, adoption of preventive measures for oral cancer, and attitude toward the need to perform oral biopsies. The sample consisted of questionnaires filled out by 192 dentists (153 women and 39 men) working in primary health care who participated in training activities on oral cancer diagnosis in July 2016. To enroll in the training activities, the professionals completed an online questionnaire to evaluate their perceptions regarding oral cancer issues. With respect to preventive measures, 96.88% of dentists reported performing full mouth examination, 87.50% reported providing tobacco cessation counseling, and 51.04% reported giving advice on excessive alcohol consumption. In addition, 72.40% and 44.79% of dentists considered, respectively, clinical training and theory instruction in oral medicine to be insufficient during undergraduate school. Only 8.33% reported performing biopsies in daily clinical routine, and almost 90% reported referring the patient to a specialist from the public system or universities. Lack of experience was the main reason not to perform a biopsy. The dentists in our sample recognize the importance of preventive measures for oral cancer, but few of them perform biopsies regularly. Therefore, there is a need for continuing education actions including practical training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: For transgender women (TW) on oestrogen therapy, the effects of prior exposure to testosterone during puberty on their performance, mainly cardiopulmonary capacity (CPC), while exerting physical effort are unknown. Our objective was to evaluate CPC and muscle strength in TW undergoing long-term gender-affirming hormone therapy.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 15 TW (34.2±5.2 years old), 13 cisgender men (CM) and 14 cisgender women (CW). The TW received hormone therapy for 14.4±3.5 years. Bioimpedance, the hand grip test and cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a treadmill with an incremental effort were performed.Results: The mean VO2peak (L/min) was 2606±416.9 in TW, 2167±408.8 in CW and 3358±436.3 in CM (TW vs CW, p<0.05; TW vs CM, p<0.0001; CW vs CM, p<0.0001). The O2 pulse in TW was between that in CW and CM (TW vs CW, p<0.05, TW vs CM, p<0.0001). There was a high correlation between VO2peak and fat-free mass/height2 among TW (r=0.7388; p<0.01), which was not observed in the other groups. The mean strength (kg) was 35.3±5.4 in TW, 29.7±3.6 in CW and 48.4±6.7 in CM (TW vs CW, p<0.05; TW vs CM, p<0.0001).Conclusion: CPC in non-athlete TW showed an intermediate pattern between that in CW and CM. The mean strength and VO2 peak in non-athlete TW while performing physical exertion were higher than those in non-athlete CW and lower than those in CM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]