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Abstract Background This review is an update of the previous study aiming to identify the available evidence related to physical activity (PA) in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods We searched 6 databases (PubMed, Embase, SPORTDiscus, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL) in April 2024. Medical subject headings and keywords related to PA and COVID-19 were combined to conduct the online search, which covered the period from July 2020 to April 2024. Results Overall, 49,579 articles were retrieved. After duplicate removal and title, abstract, and full-text screening, 1,976 articles were included in this update. Most of the studies were observational with a cross-sectional design (68.0%). Most of COVID-19 and PA studies came from high-income countries. Most studies explored the changes in PA levels due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on mental health outcomes. Conclusion Research on PA and COVID-19 prioritized online approach and cross-sectional designs. Most of the evidence identified a decrease in PA levels due to social distancing measures.

Abstract Cervical cancer, despite being preventable through primary and secondary prevention strategies, remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among women in Brazil. This study aimed to analyze the temporal, spatial, and space-time patterns of cervical cancer mortality in Brazil. An ecological study was conducted using temporal, spatial, and space-time analysis techniques, using death certificates with cervical cancer as the underlying cause or associated condition among females in Brazil from 2000 to 2021. Death certificate and population data were provided by the Department of Health Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS) and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), respectively. A total of 123,306 deaths associated with cervical cancer among women were registered during the study period. A rising trend in mortality was detected since 2014 onwards, after 14 years of decline. Particularly, an increase in mortality was observed among the younger age groups, and in the North and Northeast regions regardless of age. Heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of cervical cancer mortality was observed, with high mortality clusters around the country, but mostly concentrated in the North and Northeast regions. These findings suggest a need and an opportunity to develop efficient and effective health policies targeting those regions and groups of women at higher risk which in turn will allow for fast and significant reductions in cervical cancer mortality in Brazil.

Abstract Background Nuts consumption is related to cardioprotective effects on primary cardiovascular prevention, but studies conducted in secondary prevention are small, scarce and controversial. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the effects of a regional and sustainable cardioprotective diet added or not with an affordable mixed nuts on cardiometabolic features in patients with previous myocardial infarction. Methods DICA-NUTS study is a national, multi-center, and superiority-parallel randomized clinical trial. Males and females over 40 years old diagnosed with previous myocardial infarction in the last 2 to 6 months were included. Patients were allocated into two groups: the Brazilian Cardioprotective diet (DICA Br) supplemented with 30 g/day of mixed nuts (10 g of peanuts; 10 g of cashew; 10 g of Brazil nuts) (intervention group, n = 193); or only DICA Br prescription (control group, n = 195). The primary outcome was low-density lipoprotein cholesterol means (in mg/dL) after 16 weeks. Secondary outcomes were other lipid biomarkers, glycemic and anthropometric data and diet quality. Results After adjustment for baseline values, participating study site, time since myocardial infarction and statin treatment regimen (high potency, moderate and low potency/no statins), no significant difference was found between the groups in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations (intervention-control difference: 3.48 mg/dL [-3.45 to 10.41], P = 0.32). Both groups improved their overall diet quality at the end of the study without differences between them after 16 weeks (intervention-control difference: 1.05 (-0.9 to 2.99); P = 0.29). Other lipids, glycemic profile and anthropometrics were also not different between study groups at the end of the study. Conclusion Adding 30 g/day of mixed nuts to the DICA Br for 16 weeks did not change lipid, glycemic and anthropometric features in the post-myocardial infarction setting. Trial registration This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov website under number NCT03728127 and its World Health Organization Universal Trial Number (WHO-UTN) is U1111-1259–8105.

Abstract Background To report a case of IgG4-related pachymeningitis presenting with cystic lesions mimicking neurocysticercosis. Case presentation A 40-year-old female patient with tetraparesis, dysphagia and dysphonia was evaluated with clinical examination, magnetic resonance imaging, and meningeal biopsy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed diffuse pachymeningeal enhancement involving the cranial, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar segments with spinal cord compression and cystic lesions. CSF immunology was initially positive for cysticercus cellulosae. After disease progression a meningeal biopsy was compatible with IgG4 related disease. The patient had partial response to rituximab and needed multiple surgical procedures for spinal cord decompression and CSF shunting. Conclusions This case highlights the possibility of IgG4-related disease in patients with diffuse pachymeningitis causing spinal cord compression, even with cystic lesions on MRI. Diagnosis of IgG4-related pachymeningitis is paramount due to the possibility of treatment response to immunotherapy, particularly to anti-CD20 agents.

Cork oak (Quercus suber L.) mortality has reached alarming proportions in the last decades, exacerbated by climate change. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial in finding mitigation or adaptation strategies. This study conducts a diachronic analysis of cork oak mortality over 10 years using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) tools, focusing on Portugal’s Tagus Lezíria region. Topographic, edaphic and climatic variables were employed to create maps of edaphoclimatic aptitude for cork oaks. Dead trees were identified using remote sensing techniques and crown coverage was determined to calculate the trees’ mortality index. The diachronic analysis aimed the exploration of climate change effects on cork oak mortality. A decrease in precipitation was observed, significantly impacting stands with canopy cover below 40%. Furthermore, a negative effect of solar radiation identified only in stands with canopy cover of 40% suggested its role in cork oak decline. This study introduces a novel perspective, highlighting the protective effect of denser canopy cover against excessive solar radiation and the impact of reduced precipitation. The integrated and diachronic approach provides valuable information for adapting management strategies to climate change challenges.

Abstract Background Patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs) have been prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination to mitigate the infection severity risks. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at a high risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, especially those under immunosuppression or with associated comorbidities. However, few studies have assessed the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine in patients with RA. Objective To evaluate the safety of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with RA. Methods This data are from the study “Safety and Efficacy on COVID-19 Vaccine in Rheumatic Diseases,” a Brazilian multicentric prospective phase IV study to evaluate COVID-19 vaccine in IMRDs in Brazil. Adverse events (AEs) in patients with RA of all centers were assessed after two doses of ChAdOx1 (Oxford/AstraZeneca) or CoronaVac (Sinovac/Butantan). Stratification of postvaccination AEs was performed using a diary, filled out daily and returned at the end of 28 days for each dose. Results A total of 188 patients with RA were include, 90% female. CoronaVac was used in 109 patients and ChAdOx1 in 79. Only mild AEs were observed, mainly after the first dose. The most common AEs after the first dose were pain at the injection (46,7%), headache (39,4%), arthralgia (39,4%), myalgia (30,5%) and fatigue (26,6%), and ChAdOx1 had a higher frequency of pain at the injection (66% vs 32 %, p

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most significant health challenge of the last century. Multiple and successive waves of COVID-19 cases, driven particularly by the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants, have kept the world in a constant state of alert. Methods We present an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study aimed at identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating during two local waves of COVID-19 cases in southern Bahia, Brazil (late 2021 and late 2022), and analyzing the association between the detected variants and the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the disease. For this purpose, data and nasopharyngeal samples from individuals in southern Bahia, Brazil, with suspected COVID-19 were included. Viral detection was performed by RT-qPCR, and SARS-CoV-2 variants were identified by next-generation viral sequencing. Results A total of 368 nasopharyngeal samples were tested. Approximately 23% of the samples from late 2021 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, while in 2022, the positivity rate was about 56%. All sequenced samples from 2021 were identified as the Delta variant, while in 2022, all samples were classified as the Omicron variant. Overall, individuals who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in 2022 were younger than those who tested positive in 2021. Moreover, we observed significant differences in the clinical spectrum of SARS-CoV-2 infection when comparing the two periods. Individuals who presented with anosmia/ageusia were more likely to test positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection in 2021 but not in 2022. Additionally, fever, dry cough, pharyngalgia, headache, and rhinorrhea were more frequent among individuals infected with the Omicron variant than among those infected with the Delta variant. Conclusions The profile of COVID-19 in southern Bahia differed when analyzing two distinct waves of the pandemic in the region. These differences are likely related to the variants, which may differ in transmissibility and virulence, thereby altering the dynamics of the pandemic. This underscores the importance of genomic surveillance in better understanding the behavior of viral infections.

Abstract Background Female ticks remain attached to their host for multiple days to complete a blood meal. This prolonged feeding period is accompanied by a significant increase in the tick’s size and body weight, paralleled by noteworthy changes to the tick midgut. While the midgut is recognized for its established role in blood storage and processing, its importance extends to playing a crucial role in the acquisition, survival, and proliferation of pathogens. Despite this, our overall understanding of tick midgut biology is limited. Results Our transcriptome analysis identified 15,599 putative DNA coding sequences (CDS), which were classified into 26 functional groups. Dimensional and differential expression analyses revealed four primary transcriptional profiles corresponding to unfed, slow-feeding, transitory (from slow- to rapid-feeding), and rapid-feeding stages. Additionally, comparing the current dataset with previously deposited transcriptome from other tick species allowed the identification of commonly expressed transcripts across different feeding stages. Conclusion Our findings provide a detailed temporal resolution of numerous metabolic pathways in the midgut of A. americanum adult females throughout the feeding process, highlighting the dynamic transcriptional regulation of the tick’s midgut as feeding progresses. Furthermore, we identified conserved transcripts across three different tick species that exhibit similar expression patterns. This knowledge not only enhances our understanding of the physiological processes within the tick midgut but also opens up potential avenues for developing control methods that target multiple tick species.

Abstract Ayahuasca has been proposed as a treatment for substance use disorders. However, because of its hallucinogenic properties, studies investigating its abuse potential are needed. The aim of the present study was to investigate voluntary ayahuasca drinking in male mice using a two-bottle choice procedure. Male mice were exposed to two bottles, one of water and one of ayahuasca (0.01, 0.03 or 0.1 mg/ml), for 15 h/day, under 3 protocols (acquisition): (1) every other day access; (2) access every 3 days; (3) access every 5 days. Animals were then submitted to a 14-day drug-free period, followed by 3 re-exposure phases (same conditions as during acquisition), with 7 drug-free days between each. Regardless of the ayahuasca concentration, animals showed a preference for ayahuasca over water when exposed to ayahuasca every other day during the acquisition and re-exposure phases. Extending the period between ayahuasca exposures changed the expression of ayahuasca preference, with the longest break (every 5 days) being associated with preference for water over ayahuasca (i.e., ayahuasca aversion), an effect that was more predominantly observed at higher ayahuasca concentrations. A significant interaction was observed between frequency of exposure to ayahuasca and ayahuasca concentration for total ayahuasca intake during the later re-exposure phase. Our findings show that both the frequency of exposure and the ayahuasca concentration are critical when determining ayahuasca preference in a two-bottle choice model in mice, which can help guide therapeutic/ritualistic ayahuasca use.

Abstract Introduction: Hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) is a common complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the bladder. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of radiation-induced HC. However, the optimal treatment for HC after allogeneic HSCT has not yet been established. Furthermore, limited research has been conducted on the use of HBOT in this setting. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of HBOT in patients with late-onset HC after allogeneic HSCT. Methods: Twenty-five-year (1998–2022) retrospective analysis performed in all consecutive patients with confirmed late-onset HC after allogeneic HSCT treated with HBOT at two centers in Portugal. Medical records were reviewed for clinical and laboratory features, primary indications for allogeneic HSCT, conditioning regimen, and treatment strategies for HC. Patients received 100% oxygen at 2.1–2.5 atmosphere absolute pressure (ATA) for 70–90-minute periods, once daily, five times per week. Complete clinical response was defined as the absence of macroscopic hematuria sustained for at least 2 weeks, and partial response was described as a downgrading in the severity of HC. Statistical significance was considered for values of p

Abstract Direct planting systems offer several benefits to the soil and plants, as reflected in soil organisms. The Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are extremely sensitive to environmental changes and can be used as indicators of soil quality. This study focused on the native diversity of mycorrhizae in the region. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate mycorrhizal colonization, spore density, soil glomalin content and species diversity in five wheat genotypes under direct and conventional planting systems. This work was carried out in the experimental area of Embrapa Cerrados, Planaltina, DF, Brazil. The rates of mycorrhizal colonization, spore density and easily extractable glomalin were evaluated, and species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi were identified in five wheat genotypes under direct and conventional planting. For all the genotypes under conventional planting, there was a decrease in mycorrhizal colonization, the number of spores in the rhizosphere and the amount of easily extractable glomalin. The composition of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community differed among the wheat genotypes and management systems. The richness of morphospecies of AMF in the direct planting system was similar to that in the conventional system, with twelve species each, but the conventional system reduced root colonization and spore density. The most common species were A. scrobiculata, Si. tortuosum and G. macrocarpum, which were found in all the genotypes in both cultivation systems.

Several techniques exist to maintain oral and/or enteral feeding among esophageal cancer (EC) patients, but their impact on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) remains unclear. This systematic review aimed to assess the impact of nutritional support techniques on PROs in EC patients. We searched Medline, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete from inception to 3 April 2024. Eligible studies included those evaluating EC patients, reporting PROs using standardized measures, and providing data on different nutritional support techniques or comparing them to no intervention. The reference lists of the included studies were also screened for additional eligible articles. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Of the 694 articles identified from databases and 224 from backward citation, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Nine studies evaluated the overall quality of life (QoL), four assessed pain, and one evaluated depression. Among those submitted to esophagectomy, jejunostomy may be associated with higher QoL scores and less postoperative pain, compared to a nasojejunal tube, but no significant differences were found when compared to no intervention. For patients undergoing chemotherapy or receiving palliative/symptomatic treatment, expandable metal stents (SEMSs) were associated with higher levels of emotional functioning when compared with laparoscopic gastrostomy. Moreover, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy or SEMSs were associated with a higher QoL compared with nasogastric tubes. This review underscores the importance of considering PRO measures when evaluating nutritional support techniques in cancer patients, though further robust evidence is needed to fully understand these associations.

Ana RS Ribeiro,1,2 Theresa Neuper,1– 3 Jutta Horejs-Hoeck1– 3 1Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria; 2Cancer Cluster Salzburg (CCS), Salzburg, 5020, Austria; 3Center for Tumor biology and Immunology (CTBI), Salzburg, 5020, AustriaCorrespondence: Jutta Horejs-Hoeck, Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, Hellbrunner Strasse 34, Salzburg, 5020, Austria, Tel +43(0)662 8044 5709, Email jutta.horejs-hoeck@plus.ac.atAbstract: The signaling pathway that comprises cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP or GMP-AMP) synthase (cGAS) and Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) is emerging as a druggable target for immunotherapy, with tumor-resident dendritic cells (DC) playing a critical role in mediating its effects. The STING receptor is part of the DNA-sensing cellular machinery, that can trigger the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, priming effector T cells and initiating specific antitumor responses. Yet, recent studies have highlighted the dual role of STING activation in the context of cancer: STING can either promote antitumor responses or enhance tumor progression. This dichotomy often depends on the cell type in which cGAS-STING signaling is induced and the activation mode, namely acute versus chronic. Of note, STING activation at the DC level appears to be particularly important for tumor eradication. This review outlines the contribution of the different conventional and plasmacytoid DC subsets and describes the mechanisms underlying STING-mediated activation of DCs in cancer. We further highlight how the STING pathway plays an intricate role in modulating the function of DCs embedded in tumor tissue. Additionally, we discuss the strategies being employed to harness STING activation for cancer treatment, such as the development of synthetic agonists and nano-based delivery systems, spotlighting the current techniques used to prompt STING engagement specifically in DCs.Keywords: dendritic cell, cGAS-STING pathway, cancer immunotherapy, nanoparticle

Esta pesquisa aproxima noções sobre a divulgação científica por meio da ficção literária, com foco no formato do mangá japonês. Busca-se aqui apontar o potencial narrativo da série Demon Slayer como instrumento de divulgação científica, bem como identificar as escolhas narrativas que têm como base o fazer científico na série. O aporte teórico recorre à contextualização do mangá e do anime enquanto produtos atravessados historicamente por noções sobre ciência, bem como as possibilidades de divulgação científica por meio da ficção. A pesquisa tem caráter Qualitativo, com uso da Análise Crítica da Narrativa, de Luiz Gonzaga Motta, como técnica de análise. Entre os principais resultados, identificou-se que a instrumentalização do fazer científico cria possibilidades resolutivas na série para os embates entre protagonistas e antagonistas; a narrativa traz foco no processo científico tanto quanto nos resultados alcançados por ele; e também realiza um movimento de trazer os experimentos científicos com base em problemas sociais, devolvendo seus resultados também para o uso social, se mostrando uma potente ferramenta para se abordar noções sobre ciência.

Abstract Purpose To analyze the quality of vision of patients implanted bilaterally with the multifocal Precizon Presbyopic intraocular lens (IOL), as well as to evaluate the visual performance provided by the lens. Setting Vissum Miranza Alicante. Design Prospective multicenter study. Methods 56 patients (mean age 65.0 ± 8.7 years old) underwent bilateral implantation with multifocal Precizon Presbyopic IOL. The quality of vision was assessed by a quality of vision questionnaire at 6 months after the implantation procedure, a complete eye examination was also performed including visual and refractive measurements, defocus curve and contrast sensitivity assessment. Visual and refractive variables were compared in preoperative, 3-month postoperative and 6-month postoperative visits by Wilcoxon test. Results The quality of vision analysis showed the absence of severe glare and severe haloes in all evaluated patients. Likewise, non-symptoms of glare, haloes and starbursts were seen in 75%, 68%, and 55% of subjects, respectively. Efficacy and safety index was 1.26 and 1.42, respectively. The 6-month postoperative binocular uncorrected distance visual acuity and near uncorrected visual acuity were 0.00 ± 0.09 and 0.20 ± 0.13 logMAR, respectively. Mean spherical equivalent was 0.29 ± 0.45 D. Conclusions The Precizon Presbyopic NVA IOL (OPHTEC BV) provides a suitable quality of vision with a low rate of disturbance photic phenomena induction, as well as an excellent visual performance at main distances of sight accomplishing the visual demands of the majority of patients.

Abstract Background Pregnancy can be a risk factor for the development of more severe COVID-19 with a possible increase in the risk of complications during pregnancy/birth and adverse neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to describe and analyze the clinical and epidemiological aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in women in the perinatal period attended in the city of Belém, northern region of Brazil. Methods This is a clinical, observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, conducted at the Santa Casa de Misericórdia do Pará Foundation (FSCMPA). It included 230 pregnant women hospitalized at FSCMPA with a positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR molecular test between April 2020 and June 2022. Clinical and epidemiological information (origin, gestational age, prenatal care, comorbidities, birth complications, and chest tomography) were obtained from medical records, and correlation was made between the types of cases (mild, moderate, and severe) and maternal outcome. The chi-square test and G test were used to assess the possibility of association between variables. Results Evidence of association was observed between the severity of COVID-19 and the following parameters: gestational age, specific pregnancy comorbidities, baby and maternal death, birth complications, and prematurity. Dyspnea, headache, anosmia, odynophagia, diarrhea, and chest pain were the symptoms most related to disease aggravation. The maternal mortality rate in the study was 8.7%. Conclusion Specific pregnancy-related and pre-existing comorbidities associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection directly contribute to the worsening clinical condition, leading to complications such as prematurity, fetal, and maternal death.

Abstract Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) is a technique used in respiratory physiotherapy to treat diseases related to the respiratory system through spontaneous breathing. This equipment consists of an oronasal mask coupled to a T connector with a unidirectional valve. Studies that evaluate whether the pressure level in the one-way valve corresponds to the actual pressure level provided are scarce in the scientific literature. In order to investigate the failures, bench tests were carried out on the spring-loaded valves, using a U-tube manometer. This pressure was exerted on the valve using a syringe that generated air flow inside the U-tube, allowing analysis numerical value of the measured pressure and the specified values of the valve, thus verifying the disparity of these measured values in relation to the PEP values operated by valves (0 to 20 cmH2O) from the three manufacturers under study. PEPs generated by spring-loaded valves from all three manufacturers were higher than pressures in the range of 2.5 to 20 cmH2O, with significant differences between manufacturers. This bench study showed inaccurate operation of all spring-loaded PEP valves of the three manufactures. The results obtained and the performance of the valves require a reevaluation of manufacturing procedures to preserve product quality and efficacy in clinical application.

Abstract Coral microbiomes play crucial roles in holobiont homeostasis and adaptation. The host’s ability to populate broad ecological niches and to cope with environmental changes seems to be related to the flexibility of the coral microbiome. By means of high-throughput DNA sequencing we characterized simultaneously both bacterial (16S rRNA) and Symbiodiniaceae (ITS2) communities of four reef-building coral species (Mussismilia braziliensis, Mussismilia harttii, Montastraea cavernosa, and Favia gravida) that differ in geographic distribution and niche specificity. Samples were collected in a marginal reef system (Abrolhos, Brazil) in four sites of contrasting irradiance and turbidity. Biological filters governed by the host are important in shaping corals’ microbiome structure. More structured associated microbial communities by reef site tend to occur in coral species with broader geographic and depth ranges, especially for Symbiodiniaceae, whereas the endemic and habitat-specialist host, M. braziliensis, has relatively more homogenous bacterial communities with more exclusive members. Our findings lend credence to the hypothesis that higher microbiome flexibility renders corals more adaptable to diverse environments, a trend that should be investigated in more hosts and reef areas.

Abstract Using proton–proton collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of $$140\hbox { fb}^{-1}$$ 140 fb - 1 collected by the CMS experiment at $$\sqrt{s}= 13\,\text {Te}\hspace{-.08em}\text {V} $$ s = 13 Te V , the $${{{\Lambda }} _{\text {b}}^{{0}}} \rightarrow {{\text {J}/\uppsi }} {{{\Xi }} ^{{-}}} {{\text {K}} ^{{+}}} $$ Λ b 0 → J / ψ Ξ - K + decay is observed for the first time, with a statistical significance exceeding 5 standard deviations. The relative branching fraction, with respect to the $${{{\Lambda }} _{\text {b}}^{{0}}} \rightarrow {{{\uppsi }} ({2\textrm{S}})} {{\Lambda }} $$ Λ b 0 → ψ ( 2 S ) Λ decay, is measured to be $$\mathcal {B}({{{\Lambda }} _{\text {b}}^{{0}}} \rightarrow {{\text {J}/\uppsi }} {{{\Xi }} ^{{-}}} {{\text {K}} ^{{+}}} )/\mathcal {B}({{{\Lambda }} _{\text {b}}^{{0}}} \rightarrow {{{\uppsi }} ({2\textrm{S}})} {{\Lambda }} ) = [3.38\pm 1.02\pm 0.61\pm 0.03]\%$$ B ( Λ b 0 → J / ψ Ξ - K + ) / B ( Λ b 0 → ψ ( 2 S ) Λ ) = [ 3.38 ± 1.02 ± 0.61 ± 0.03 ] % , where the first uncertainty is statistical, the second is systematic, and the third is related to the uncertainties in $$\mathcal {B}({{{\uppsi }} ({2\textrm{S}})} \rightarrow {{\text {J}/\uppsi }} {{{\uppi }} ^{{+}}} {{{\uppi }} ^{{-}}} )$$ B ( ψ ( 2 S ) → J / ψ π + π - ) and $$\mathcal {B}({{{\Xi }} ^{{-}}} \rightarrow {{\Lambda }} {{{\uppi }} ^{{-}}} )$$ B ( Ξ - → Λ π - ) .

Abstract Background The nexus plant-microbe-environment is essential to understand the ecosystem processes shaping plant health and fitness. Within this triangle, soils and associated microflora are among the key ecosystem’s drivers, underpinning plant productivity and evolution. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis (physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and taxonomic diversity) of soils under the canopy projection of Coffea arabica trees along a gradient of elevation (600, 800, and 900 m) and shade (0, 50, 100%). Results While shade had no influence on most parameters, altitude shaped the dynamics of microbial communities. Available phosphorus, soil organic carbon, and nitrate were significantly higher at 800 m, likely due to the higher activities of β-glucosidase and phosphatases at this altitude. Microbial biomass (carbon and nitrogen) and moisture were significantly higher at 600 and 900 m, which might be attributed to the abundance and richness of soil microorganisms. Indeed, metabarcoding analysis revealed a complex pattern of microbial consortia (bacteria, archaea, fungi) at the three altitudes, with the lowest index of richness recorded at 800 m. The highest number of Amplicon Sequence Variants was observed in bacteria, whose functional analysis revealed distinct metabolic adaptations across different altitudes. At 900 m, the main functional attributes favored the responses to environmental stimuli and microbial interactions; at 800 m, the predominant metabolic pathways were related to organic matter, fermentation, and bioremediation; and at the lower 600 m, the pathways shifted towards the breakdown of plant-derived compounds (e.g. geraniol, limonene, and pinene degradation). Conclusion Overall, the results indicate a higher effectiveness of the microbial consortium at 800 m, which might result in better nutrient cycling. The study highlights the importance of canopy shade species and elevation for the composition of microbial consortia in C. arabica, unveiling ecological functions beyond plant health, with implications for bio-based solutions and biotechnology.

Abstract This systematic review and network meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of combining professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) with probiotics compared to PMPR + placebo on probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL). Randomized controlled trials published until November 2023 were searched across electronic databases, peer-reviewed journals, and grey literature. Two authors independently selected, extracted data, and assessed bias risk. Primary outcomes were mean changes in PPD and CAL. Secondary outcomes included mean changes in bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index, and colony-forming units. Network meta-analysis with the frequentist weighted least squares approach evaluated the data quantitatively, and CINeMA framework evaluated the quality of evidence. In 33 articles involving 1290 patients, results were stratified by follow-up period (short and long-time studies) and sensitivity analyses conducted based on probiotic therapy duration (1 month reference). Network meta-analysis revealed significant mean differences in PPD for nine probiotic interventions, CAL for eighteen interventions, and BOP for eight interventions, with Lactobacillus demonstrating the most substantial effects. Combining PMPR with probiotics as adjuvants to subgingival instrumentation may be more effective in improving PPD and CAL. Lactobacillus emerged as the most comprehensive and effective among the studied probiotic.

Abstract Background Occupational biomonitoring is essential for assessing health risks linked to workplace exposures. The use of ‘omics’ technologies, such as metabolomics and proteomics, has become crucial in detecting subtle biological alterations induced by occupational hazards, thereby opening novel avenues for biomarker discovery. Aims This systematic review aims to evaluate the application of metabolomics and proteomics in occupational health. Methods Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for original human studies that use metabolomics or proteomics to assess occupational exposure biomarkers. The risk of bias was assessed by adapting the Cochrane Collaboration tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Results Of 2311 initially identified articles, 85 met the eligibility criteria. These studies were mainly conducted in China, Europe, and the United States of America, covering a wide range of occupational exposures. The findings revealed that metabolomics and proteomics approaches effectively identified biomarkers related to chemical, physical, biomechanical, and psychosocial hazards. Analytical methods varied, with mass spectrometry-based techniques emerging as the most prevalent. The risk of bias was generally low to moderate, with specific concerns about exposure measurement and confounding factors. Conclusions Integrating metabolomics and proteomics in occupational health biomonitoring significantly advances our understanding of exposure effects and facilitates the development of personalized preventive interventions. However, challenges remain regarding the complexity of data analysis, biomarker specificity, and the translation of findings into preventive measures. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and biomarker validation across diverse populations to improve the reliability and applicability of occupational health interventions.

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the effects on firms' outcomes of a new government regulation on the private security industry that aimed to enhance the selection and training processes for armed-private security officers. Design/methodology/approach – By using human capital theory and using a data set built from various public sources, this study analyzes the effects of a new regulation implemented in 2013–2014 in Brazil mandating psychological assessments for hiring private security armed officers. Firm-level data and a Difference-in-Differences (DiD) identification strategy are used to investigate the effects on turnover and human capital outcomes. Findings – The study identifies substantial changes resulting from the new government regulation in private security firms. While it has led to increased turnover rates, the regulation has also facilitated firms in enhancing the human capital composition of their workforce by enabling the recruitment of more experienced personnel. Research limitations/implications – This research informs to current debates on the effects of policy interventions on firm's outcomes by showing how regulations aimed to improve the configuration of human capital can generate win-win situations for both firms and citizens, despite the short-term trade-offs between higher turnover rates and improved human capital outcomes. Practical implications – Refining selection and training processes can enhance the workforce in private security firms by replacing less capable professionals with more experienced ones. Insights from this study offer guidance to policymakers and industry practitioners in shaping effective business and public policies. Social implications – This study underscores the role of training and psychological assessments in enhancing the composition of human capital in the private security industry. Originality/value – By highlighting the role of policy interventions in establishing barriers to unskilled workers engaging in hazardous activities, this study contributes to the burgeoning literature in strategic management on the interaction between policy interventions and firm outcomes.

Abstract A search for Higgs boson pair (HH) production in association with a vector boson V (W or Z boson) is presented. The search is based on proton-proton collision data at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, collected with the CMS detector at the LHC, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 138 fb −1. Both hadronic and leptonic decays of V bosons are used. The leptons considered are electrons, muons, and neutrinos. The HH production is searched for in the b b ¯ b b ¯ $$ \textrm{b}\overline{\textrm{b}}\textrm{b}\overline{\textrm{b}} $$ decay channel. An observed (expected) upper limit at 95% confidence level of VHH production cross section is set at 294 (124) times the standard model prediction. Constraints are also set on the modifiers of the Higgs boson trilinear self-coupling, k λ , assuming k 2V = 1, and vice versa on the coupling of two Higgs bosons with two vector bosons, k 2V. The observed (expected) 95% confidence intervals of these coupling modifiers are −37.7 < k λ < 37.2 (−30.1 < k λ < 28.9) and −12.2 < k 2V < 13.5 (−7.2 < k 2V < 8.9), respectively.

Abstract Cellular stress and ageing involve an increase in crowding and aggregation of amylogenic proteins. We here investigate if crowding is the intrinsic cause of aggregation and utilise a previously established non-protein aggregation sensor, namely pseudoisocyanine chloride (PIC). PIC shows fibrillization in cells into a highly fluorescent J-aggregated state and is sensitive to crowding. Surprisingly, cell stress conditions stabilise the monomeric rather than the aggregated state of PIC both in the cytoplasm and in stress granules. Regarding the different physiochemical changes of the cytoplasm occurring upon cell stress, involving volume reduction, phase separation and solidification, the intrinsic crowding effect is not the key factor to drive associated self-assembly processes.

As multiple UN fora develop parallel rules for sharing benefits from digital sequence information, we urge better coordination. International policymakers should focus on harmonizing new benefit-sharing rules to ensure open access to data, database interoperability, and better benefit sharing outcomes.

Abstract Background Extreme sports have increased in popularity, particularly over the past two decades. Theories explaining participation in extreme sports tend to focus on risk. Consequently, extreme sports participants are often characterized by an accentuated desire for risk and abnormal personal traits, but the positive aspects of extreme sports are often neglected in the literature. This scoping review summarizes extreme sport motives, emotions and personal characteristics. Methods Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist, three databases were searched (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SportDiscus and, PsycInfo) on 20th April 2023. Studies were included if they were originally articles written in English and examined psychology traits in extreme sport participants. Results In total, 39 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed in the present review. There is no unique profile for individuals involved in extreme sports. Risk and fear are considered natural characteristic of participation, and many positive aspects are associated with involvement in extreme sports (e.g., organization, planning, confidence). The quality of experience is often reported to justify extreme sport participation. Conclusion Changes in emotions and motives characterized the reversal theory, which in combination with the flow approach, could explain the participation in extreme activities. A dynamic ecological approach considering the interaction between individuals and the environment should be adopted to understand individual motives, behaviour and emotions.

Brazil's National Forest Inventory (IFN), coordinated by the Brazilian Forest Service (SFB), provides essential data on the country's forest resources. The availability of IFN data, collected over more than a decade, through the National Forest Information System (SNIF), promotes transparency and facilitates access to comprehensive information about Brazilian forests. This detailed survey covers biophysical, botanical and socio-environmental aspects, as well as interviews about the use of forest resources.

Monique da Silva Pinto,1 Caroline de Oliveira Ribeiro,1 Paula Morisco de Sá,2 Hermano Albuquerque Castro,3 Thiago Prudente Bártholo,4 Agnaldo José Lopes,4 Pedro Lopes Melo1,5 1Biomedical Instrumentation Laboratory, Institute of Biology and Faculty of Engineering, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; 2University of the Brazilian Air Force, Postgraduate Program in Operational Human Performance, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; 3National School of Public Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; 4Pedro Ernesto University Hospital, Pulmonary Function Laboratory, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; 5State University of Rio de Janeiro, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Research in Vascular Biology, Rio de Janeiro, BrazilCorrespondence: Pedro Lopes Melo, Department of Physiology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, São Francisco Xavier Street, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tel +55(21)2334-0705, Email plopes@uerj.brBackground: Asthma onset or worsening of the disease in adulthood may be associated with occupational asthma (OA) or work-exacerbated asthma (WEA). Oscillometry and respiratory modeling offer insight into the pathophysiology and contribute to the early diagnosis of respiratory abnormalities.Purpose: This study aims to compare the changes due to OA and WEA and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of this method.Patients and Methods: Ninety-nine volunteers were evaluated: 33 in the control group, 33 in the OA group, and 33 in the WEA group. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) was used to describe diagnostic accuracy.Results: Oscillometric analysis showed increased resistance at 4 hz (R4, p< 0.001), 20 hz (R20, p< 0.05), R4-R20 (p< 0.0001), and respiratory work (p< 0.001). Similar analysis showed reductions in dynamic compliance (p< 0.001) and ventilation homogeneity, as evaluated by resonance frequency (Fr, p< 0.0001) and reactance area (p< 0.0001). Respiratory modeling showed increased peripheral resistance (p< 0.0001), hysteresivity (p< 0.0001), and damping (p< 0.0001). No significant changes were observed comparing OA with WEA in any parameter. For OA, the diagnostic accuracy analyses showed Fr as the most accurate among oscillometric parameters (AUC=0.938), while the most accurate from respiratory modeling was hysteresivity (AUC=0.991). A similar analysis for WEA also showed that Fr was the most accurate among traditional parameters (AUC=0.972), and hysteresivity was the most accurate from modeling (AUC=0.987). The evaluation of differential diagnosis showed low accuracy.Conclusion: Oscillometry and modeling have advanced our understanding of respiratory abnormalities in OA and WEA. Furthermore, our study presents evidence suggesting that these models could aid in the early diagnosis of these diseases. Respiratory oscillometry examinations necessitate only tidal breathing and are straightforward to conduct. Collectively, these practical considerations, coupled with the findings of our study, indicate that respiratory oscillometry in conjunction with respiratory modeling, may enhance lung function assessments in OA and WEA.Keywords: occupational asthma, work-exacerbated asthma, pulmonary function, forced oscillations, respiratory modeling, fractional order modeling

ABSTRACT: The objectives of this observational cohort study were to evaluate the associations of rumination time (RT) in the last week of pregnancy with transition cow metabolism, inflammation, health, and subsequent milk production, reproduction, and culling. Pregnant nulliparous (n = 199) and parous (n = 337) cows were enrolled 21 d before expected calving. Rumination time and physical activity were monitored automatically by sensors from d −21 to 15 relative to calving. Blood samples were collected on d −14, −5, 4, 8, and 12 ± 1 relative to calving. Diagnoses of clinical health problems were performed by researchers from calving to 15 DIM. In classification 1, cows were ranked based on average daily RT in the last week of pregnancy and classified into terciles as short RT (SRT), moderate RT (MRT), or long RT (LRT) for association analyses. In classification 2, RT deviation from the parity average was used in a receiver operating characteristic curve to identify the best threshold to predict postpartum clinical disease. Cows were then classified as above the threshold (AT) or below the threshold (BT). Compared with cows with LRT, cows with SRT had greater serum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (0.47 vs. 0.40 ± 0.01 mmol/L), BHB (0.58 vs. 0.52 ± 0.01 mmol/L), and haptoglobin (0.22 vs. 0.18 ± 0.008 g/L) throughout the transition period, and reduced concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, albumin, and magnesium in a time-dependent manner. Parous cows with SRT had higher odds of postpartum clinical disease (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.7; 95% CI: 2.1–6.4), lower odds of pregnancy by 210 DIM (AOR = 0.34; 95% CI = 0.15–0.75), and lower milk production (46.9 vs. 48.6 ± 0.5 kg/d) than parous cows with LRT. Deviation in prepartum RT had good predictive value for clinical disease in parous cows (area under the curve = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.60–0.71) but not in nulliparous (area under the curve = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.42–0.59). Separation of parous cows according to the identified threshold (≤−53 min from the parity average) resulted in differences in serum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (AT = 0.31 ± 0.006, BT = 0.38 ± 0.014 mmol/L), BHB (AT = 0.49 ± 0.008, BT = 0.53 ± 0.015 mmol/L), and globulin (AT = 32.3 ± 0.3, BT = 34.8 ± 0.5 g/L) throughout the transition period, as well as in serum cholesterol, urea, magnesium, albumin, and haptoglobin in a time-dependent manner. Below threshold parous cows had higher odds of clinical disease (AOR = 3.7; 95% CI = 2.1–6.4), reduced hazard of pregnancy (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.47–0.89), greater hazard of culling (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.2–3.6), and lower milk production (46.3 ± 0.7 vs. 48.5 ± 0.3 kg/d). External validation using data from 153 parous cows from a different herd and the established threshold in RT deviation (≤−53 min) resulted in similar predictive value, with the odds of postpartum disease 2.4 times greater in BT than AT (37.5% vs. 20.1%). In conclusion, RT in the week preceding calving was a reasonable predictor of postpartum health and future milk production, reproduction, and culling in parous cows but not in nulliparous cows.

ABSTRACT: The rumen microbiome is crucial for converting feed into absorbable nutrients used for milk synthesis, and the efficiency of this process directly affects the profitability and sustainability of the dairy industry. Recent studies have found that the rumen microbial composition explains part of the variation in feed efficiency traits, including dry matter intake, milk energy, and residual feed intake. The main goal of this study was to reveal relationships between the host genome, the rumen microbiome, and dairy cow feed efficiency using structural equation models. Our specific objectives were to (1) infer the mediation effects of the rumen microbiome on feed efficiency traits, (2) estimate the direct and total heritability of feed efficiency traits, and (3) calculate the direct and total breeding values of feed efficiency traits. Data consisted of dry matter intake, milk energy, and residual feed intake records, SNP genotype data, and 16S rRNA rumen microbial abundances from 448 mid-lactation Holstein cows from 2 research farms. We implemented structural equation models such that the host genome directly affects the phenotype (GP → P) and the rumen microbiome (GM → P), and the microbiome affects the phenotype (M → P), partially mediating the effect of the host genome on the phenotype (G → M → P). We found that 7% to 30% of microbes within the rumen microbial community had structural coefficients different from zero. We classified these microbes into 3 groups that could have different uses in dairy farming. Microbes with heritability

Abstract International demand for a small handful of commodities is a major driver of tropical deforestation and associated biodiversity loss. Previous commitments to reduce commodity‐driven deforestation have largely failed, yet there are currently various proposals in place globally, which aim to address the challenge of reducing overseas environmental impacts of supply chains. However, many of these are highly focused on the issue of deforestation alone. Given that biodiversity objectives are often cited alongside protection of forests, deforestation rates are therefore often used as a proxy for biodiversity loss. Assessments exploring deforestation risk linked to commodity supply chains, enabled by increasingly granular information on sourcing patterns, therefore potentially overlook other important biodiversity concerns. In response, we examine sourcing risks across three producer countries in South America for both forest loss and biodiversity for the example of soy production and trade, which has one of the largest embodied deforestation footprints in international supply chains. Using IUCN and Birdlife data, we create four simple biodiversity metrics to represent different aspects of species‐related biodiversity risk and link both these, and a forest loss metric representing soy driven deforestation, to sub‐national supply chain data to examine risks for the two largest importers from each producer country. We find relatively little evidence of convergence between forest loss and biodiversity metrics, as well as divergence between the four biodiversity indicators both for different importers and across landscapes. This suggests not only that forest loss alone is unlikely to be an adequate proxy for biodiversity, especially at larger spatial scales when considering risks across sourcing patterns, but also that further work is necessary to develop a deeper understanding of interactions between more complex measures of biodiversity and their consequences for informing supply chain activities. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Abstract Current diagnostic criteria for cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) rely on non-invasive imaging tools including positron emission tomography (PET-CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of discordant myocardial inflammation between PET-CT and CMR in patients with known cardiac sarcoidosis. We retrospectively identified patients with both 18F-FDG PET-CT and CMR who had histology-proven sarcoidosis (N = 148). Among these 25 (17%) had abnormal 18F-FDG metabolism with normal tissue characterization by CMR. Of these, 13 (9%) had the studies concomitantly within 180 days (median 5 days, IQR 1–31). During median follow up of 7 years, 3 (23%) deaths were documented. Although prospective studies are required to address the best imaging approach for cardiac inflammation, our observation that some patients with CS have evidence of disease activity on PET-CT, but not on limited CMR without mapping suggests that a negative limited CMR may not fully exclude CS.

Abstract Aim This study examined the association of low handgrip strength (HGS) for falls in middle-aged adults and older adults every half-decade of life. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted using the public data from the first wave of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil). The participants were allocated into seven age groups 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, 65–69, 70–74, 75–79, and ≥ 80 years. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the odds ratio (OR) of low HGS to the falls regardless of confounding variables such as sex, balance, gait speed, and total number of health conditions. Results A total of 8,112 participants aged 50–105 years (median = 62.0 years): 3,490 males (median = 60.0 years) and 4,622 females (median = 63.0 years) attended the study. Altogether, 21.5% of participants experienced at least one fall. HGS gradually decreases over each half-decade of life. In addition, low HGS presented a significative OR (p

Abstract Background Female sex workers (FSWs) in Mozambique face significant health risks, including high HIV prevalence, combination of factors, including inconsistent condom use, engagement in risky sexual behaviors, and various socio-ecological determinants of health. Understanding the determinants of these practices is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Methods This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the second round of Biobehavioral Survey (BBS) conducted from 2019 to 2020 in five urban areas to examine determinants of inconsistent condom use and risky sexual behaviors among FSWs. Modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the effect of various socio-demographic, economic, and behavioral factors on the outcomes, providing adjusted relative risk (aRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Among the 2,565 FSWs who reported inconsistent condom use, younger FSWs (15–24 years old, 29.1%), single (27.3%), with secondary or higher education (26.1%), nationals (25.9%), and residents of Tete City (30.5%) had a higher prevalence of inconsistent condom use. Initiating sex work

Background High levels of physical conditioning are associated with improvements in cognitive performance. In this sense, electroencephalographic (ECG) correlates are used to investigate the enhancing role of physical exercise on executive functions. Oscillations in the β frequency range are proposed to be evident during sensorimotor activity.

Purpose – This article aims to evaluate the entry and exit of companies from local productive structures, with a specific focus on the sectoral complexity of these activities and the complexity of these portfolios. The study focuses on empirically demonstrating the thesis that related economic diversification exacerbates the development gap between more and less complex regions. Design/methodology/approach – The article uses indicators formulated by the economic complexity approach. They allow a relevant descriptive analysis of the economic diversification process in Brazilian micro-regions and provide the foundation for the econometric tests conducted. Through three distinct estimation strategies (OLS, logit, probit), the influence of complexity and relatedness on the entry and exit events of firms from local portfolios is tested. Findings – In all estimated models, the stronger relationship between an activity and a portfolio significantly increases its probability of entering the productive structure and, at the same time, acts as a significant factor in preventing its exit. Furthermore, the results reveal that the complexity of a sector reduces the probability of its specialization in less complex regions while increasing it in more complex regions. On the other hand, sectoral complexity significantly increases the probability of a sector leaving less complex local structures but has no significant effect in highly complex regions. Research limitations/implications – Due to the data used, the indicators are calculated considering only formal job numbers. Additionally, the tests do not detect the influence of spatial issues. These limitations should be addressed by future research. Practical implications – The article characterizes a prevailing process of uneven development among Brazilian regions and brings relevant implications, primarily for policymakers. Specifically, for less complex regions, policies should focus on creating opportunities to improve their diversification capabilities in complex sectors that are not too distant from their portfolios. Originality/value – The article makes an original contribution by proposing an evaluation of regional diversification in Brazil with a focus on complexity, introducing a more detailed differentiation of regions based on their complexity levels and examining the impact of sectoral complexity on diversification patterns within each group.

Pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, de caráter exploratório, sobre o Documento Curricular do Território Maranhense: ensino médio (DCTM/EM), elaborado como decorrência da Lei 13.415/2017, a lei da reforma no ensino médio. Pretende-se analisar o referido documento problematizando a sua convergência com os fundamentos da reforma do ensino médio em geral. Esta análise se apoia no aporte teórico da Teoria Crítica da Sociedade e do Materialismo-histórico dialético. Destacam-se como aspectos nucleares da proposta curricular o caráter flexível da formação, a fragmentação do currículo, a formação de competências e habilidades e o “protagonismo” do estudante visando a formação de indivíduos empreendedores e socialmente responsáveis, com foco na gestão do seu próprio projeto de vida. Conclui-se que o escopo da formação empreendido pela reforma do ensino médio se coaduna ao processo de semiformação dos indivíduos de forma cada vez mais subordinada à materialidade alienada.

Trata-se de um estudo cujo objetivo foi verificar implicações formativas do Programa de Residência Pedagógica (PRP) no desenvolvimento profissional de professores(as) de Educação Física em meio ao exercício da docência. A pesquisa, de natureza qualitativa e enfoque narrativo, contou com a participação de seis preceptores(as) atuantes na edição 2022/2024 do Programa. Para reunir os dados, foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas orientadas por um tópico-guia. Em relação ao método, empregou-se a triangulação como perspectiva analítica. Constatou-se que o PRP contribuiu de modo significativo para o desenvolvimento profissional dos(as) docentes entrevistados(as). Superação de fragilidades formativas, desenvolvimento de reflexões epistemológicas e abertura a reelaborações no plano didático-metodológico possibilitaram-lhes (re) pensar a organização do trabalho pedagógico no âmbito da Educação Física escolar. Em outra direção, a finalização do Programa mostrou-se um obstáculo à continuidade das ações desenvolvidas e seus ciclos temporais.

Background: The scientific literature has studies that assess the influence of erosive challenges with citric acidic drinks and substances on the adhesive bond strength to enamel and dentin, but does not contain information about the influence of regional components of an acidic diet on this process. Thus, this study evaluated the erosive influence of Amazonian tucupi on enamel and dentin microshear bond strength. Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty-eight healthy bovine incisors teeth were used, divided into 12 groups (n = 14). For erosive cycling, distilled water (negative control), cola-based soft drink (positive control), or tucupi were used, followed by adhesive strategies of (1) etch-and-rinse (conventional) (Adper™ Single Bond 2) and (2) self-etching (Clearfil SE Bond). All specimens were subjected to erosive cycling for 5 days and, after 24 h, composite resin cylinders were built up for the microshear bond strength test. The data showed normal distribution and were analyzed by two-way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey post and test (P ≤ 0.05). Results: There were no significant differences in enamel (P > 0.05). In dentin, only the groups exposed to cola-based soft drink showed significant differences (P < 0.01). The failure mode showed that Type II (mixed) was predominant (95%). Conclusion: The erosive challenge with tucupi did not influence the bond strength to enamel and dentin, regardless of the adhesive strategy used.

A partir de problemas relacionados ao ensino de projeto em sala de aula, esta pesquisa tem como objetivo avaliar o desempenho do uso de jogos enquanto ferramenta de ensino de desenho urbano no curso de arquitetura e urbanismo. Para atingir este objetivo, a pesquisa apresenta um relato de experiência que contempla a elaboração e o teste de um protótipo de jogo denominado “jogo do diagnóstico”, aplicado a uma turma da disciplina de Projeto Urbanístico, do oitavo período do curso de Arquitetura e Urbanismo. Configura-se como uma pesquisa exploratória, propositiva e qualitativa. Adota-se como método o Design Science Research (DSR), buscando aplicação do conhecimento científico através da proposição de soluções para os problemas encontrados. O trabalho está dividido em três partes: 1) levantamento bibliográfico sobre ensino de desenho urbano, aprendizagem significativa e jogos; 2) relato de experiência sobre o projeto e a utilização de um protótipo de jogo em ateliê de projeto urbanístico; 3) síntese e avaliação dos resultados observados a partir do referencial teórico e empírico. A experiência relatada foi considerada válida pois obteve êxito no ensino de desenho urbano, revelou novas fragilidades da metodologia e possibilitou o entendimento das problemáticas observadas. Baseando-se nos conceitos de Ensino Reflexivo, Aprendizagem Significativa e Interação Lúdica Significativa, a conclusão da pesquisa apresenta um conjunto de diretrizes para elaboração de jogos para ensino de desenho urbano.

Abstract Background Severe malaria can cause respiratory symptoms, which may lead to malaria-acute lung injury (MA-ALI) due to inflammation and damage to the blood-gas barrier. Patients with severe malaria also often present thrombocytopenia, and the use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with immunomodulatory and antiplatelet effects, may pose a risk in regions where malaria is endemic. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the systemic impact of ASA and dihydroartemisinin (DHA) on ALI induced in mice by Plasmodium berghei NK65 (PbNK65). Methods C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control (C) and PbNK65 infected groups and were inoculated with uninfected or 104 infected erythrocytes, respectively. Then, the animals were treated with DHA (3 mg/kg) or vehicle (DMSO) at the 8-day post-infection (dpi) for 7 days and with ASA (100 mg/kg, single dose), and analyses were performed at 9 or 15 dpi. Lung mechanics were performed, and lungs were collected for oedema evaluation and histological analyses. Results PbNK65 infection led to lung oedema, as well as increased lung static elastance (Est, L), resistive (ΔP1, L) and viscoelastic (ΔP2, L) pressures, percentage of mononuclear cells, inflammatory infiltrate, hemorrhage, alveolar oedema, and alveolar thickening septum at 9 dpi. Mice that received DHA or DHA + ASA had an increase in Est, L, and CD36 expression on inflammatory monocytes and higher protein content on bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF). However, only the DHA-treated group presented a percentage of inflammatory monocytes similar to the control group and a decrease in ΔP1, L and ΔP2, L compared to Pb + DMSO. Also, combined treatment with DHA + ASA led to an impairment in diffuse alveolar damage score and lung function at 9 dpi. Conclusions Therapy with ASA maintained lung morpho-functional impairment triggered by PbNK65 infection, leading to a large influx of inflammatory monocytes to the lung tissue. Based on its deleterious effects in experimental MA-ALI, ASA administration or its treatment maintenance might be carefully reconsidered and further investigated in human malaria cases.

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii is a polarized cell concentrating several secretory organelles at the apical pole. The secretory micronemes come in two sub-populations differentiated by dependence on Rab5A/C in their biogenesis. Calcium-dependent exocytosis of micronemes occurs at the very apical tip and is critical for parasite egress from its host cell, adhesion and invasion of the next cell. Ferlins represent a protein family with roles in exocytosis containing multiple Ca2+-sensing C2 domains. We determined that T. gondii’s ferlin 1 (FER1) localized dynamically to the parasite’s secretory pathway. FER1 function was dissected by dominant negative overexpression strategies. We demonstrated that FER1 traffics microneme organelles along the following trajectories: (1) Along the cortex to the apical end; (2) To the apical tip for fusion with the plasma membrane; (3) Differential microneme sub-population traffic, and that FER1 could putatively be responsible for microneme protein trafficking. (4) From the trans-Golgi-endosomal network to the subpellicular cortex; (5) Retrograde transport allowing microneme recycling from mother to daughter. Finally, FER1 overexpression triggers a microneme exocytosis burst, supporting the notion that the radially organized micronemes at the apical tip comprise a readily-releasable microneme pool. In summary, FER1 is pivotal for dynamic microneme trafficking, acts differently on the two microneme subpopulations, and acts on the plasma membrane fusion step during microneme exocytosis.

Abstract Background CrossFit® combines different types of activities (weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardiovascular training) that challenge aerobic and anaerobic pathways. Over the last few years, the scientific interest in CrossFit® has increased considerably. However, there have been no published reviews characterizing the physical demands and physiological responses to CrossFit®. The present study synthesizes current evidence on the physical demands and physiological responses to CrossFit®. Methods The search was performed in three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). Manuscripts related to the physical and physiological performance of adult CrossFit® participants written in English, Portuguese, and Spanish were retrieved for the analysis. Results In addition, a meta-correlation was conducted to examine the predictors of CrossFit® performance. A total of 68 papers were included in the review. Physical and physiological markers differed between the different workouts analyzed. In addition, 48 to 72 h are needed to recover from a CrossFit® challenge. Specific tests that involve CrossFit® movements were more related to CrossFit® performance than non-specific. Conclusion Although the characterization of CrossFit® is dependent on the workout examined, the benefits of muscle hypertrophy are aligned with the recent findings of concurrent training. The characterization of CrossFit® entire sessions and appropriate recovery strategies should be considered in future studies to help coaches manipulate and adjust the training load.

Abstract Background Different types of exercise, performed acutely or chronically, have different repercussions on central hemodynamics, arterial stiffness, and cardiac function. In this study, we aim to compare the effects of acute elbow flexion (EFlex) and knee extension (KExt) exercises on vascular and hemodynamic parameters and arterial stiffness indices in healthy young adults. Methods Young adults (20 to 39 years) underwent randomized muscle strength tests to obtain 1 repetition maximum (1RM) for elbow flexion (EFlex) and knee extension (KExt). After a minimum interval of 48 h, cardiovascular parameters were assessed using Mobil-O-Graph® (Mobil-O-Graph, IEM, Germany) at three-time points: at baseline (before exercise), immediately after elbow flexion or knee extension exercises with a load corresponding to 50% of 1RM (T0) and after 15 min of rest (T15). Results Immediately after exercise (T0), peripheral systolic blood pressure, peripheral pulse pressure, central systolic blood pressure, and central pulse pressure were significantly higher in KExt than EFlex (Δ 3.13; Δ 3.06; Δ 5.65; Δ 5.61 mmHg, respectively). Systolic volume, cardiac output, and cardiac index were significantly higher immediately after KExt when compared with EFlex (Δ 4.2 ml; Δ 0.27 ml/min and 0.14 l/min*1/m2, respectively). The reflection coefficient and the pulse wave velocity were also significantly higher at T0 in KExt compared to EFlex ( Δ 8.59 and Δ 0.12 m/sec, respectively). Conclusion Our results show differential contribution of muscle mass in vascular and hemodynamic parameters evaluated immediately after EFlex and KExt. In addition, our study showed for the first time that the reflection coefficient, an index that evaluates the magnitude of the reflected waves from the periphery, was only affected by KExt.

Abstract Background The objective of this study was to compare HFNC therapy to noninvasive ventilation (NIV/BiPAP) in children with bronchiolitis who developed respiratory failure. We hypothesized that HFNC therapy would not be inferior to NIV. Methods This was a noninferiority open-label randomized single-center clinical trial conducted at a tertiary Brazilian hospital. Children under 2 years of age with no chronic conditions admitted for bronchiolitis that progressed to mild to moderate respiratory distress (Wood-Downes-Férres score

Abstract Background To verify the influence of macrogeometry with healing chambers on the osseointegration of dental implants by analyzing implant stability quotient (ISQ) and evaluate the correlation between insertion torque and ISQ insertion with different macrogeometries. Methods In total, 26 implants were installed in the posterior mandible of eight patients with sufficient bone height for the installation of implants measuring 3.5 mm in diameter and 9.0 mm in length. The implants were categorized according to two types of macrogeometry: a test group (GT) with 13 conical implants with healing chambers and a control group (GC) with 13 conical implants with conventional threads. To insert the implants, a bone drilling protocol was used up to a diameter of 3 mm with the last helical bur. The insertion torque of the implants was evaluated, followed by the measurement of ISQ at 0 (T-0), 7 (T-7), 14 (T-14), 21 (T-21), 28 (T-28), and 42 (T-42) days. Results The mean insertion torque was 43 Ncm in both groups, without a significant difference. Moreover, no significant difference in the ISQ values was found between the groups at different time points (p > 0.05), except at T-7 (GT = 69.87±1.89 and GC = 66.48±4.49; p = 0.01). Although there was no significant difference, ISQ median values were higher in the GT group than GC group at 28 days (GT = 67.98 and GC = 63.46; p = 0.05) and 42 days (GT = 66.12 and GC = 60.33; p = 0.09). No correlation was found between the insertion torque and ISQ insertion (p > 0.05). Conclusion Furthermore, implants with a 3.5 mm diameter macrogeometry, with or without healing chambers, inserted with a drilling protocol up to 3 mm in diameter of the last helical bur, led to a similar secondary stability, with no difference in ISQ values. Although, implants with healing chamber demonstrates ascending values in the graph of ISQ, having a trend of faster osseointegration than implants without healing chambers. Both macrogeometries provide a similar primary stability to implants. Trial registration This study was registered retrospectively in ReBec (brazilian registry of clinical trials) under the number RBR-96n5×69, on the date of 19/06/2023.

Abstract Background Limited data exist on psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment in lower-income regions, particularly from the patient perspective. This study explores the challenges faced by socioeconomically vulnerable PsA patients and the reasons for non-adherence to treatment guidelines. The main objective of the study is to develop a questionnaire to identify the primary challenges in PsA treatment adherence and to analyze its feasibility while simultaneously understanding the target population’s unique characteristics. Methods We included PsA patients meeting the Classification Criteria for PsA (CASPAR), excluding those with other overlapping inflammatory diseases. The study, supported by two patient-research partners, began with focus groups to identify treatment challenges, leading to the creation of a 26-item questionnaire. Its reliability was verified using the test-retest method, targeting a percent agreement ≥ 0.8. Then, PsA patients at a rheumatology clinic completed the final survey. Results The study involved 69 PsA patients. The final questionnaire contained 26-questions across five-domains, with a 92.2% agreement rate and an average completion time of 8.3 minutes. Diagnostic delays exceeded a year for 59% of patients and more than two years for 33%. Daily life disruptions affected 43.2% of patients, with 35.3% taking sick leave or retiring. Around 25% waited over 8 weeks for drug approval, and 17.6% required legal intervention to access medication. Drug dispensation issues impacted about 60% of patients. Furthermore, 66.7% lived far from their rheumatologist, with 49% traveling over an hour for appointments. Approximately 30% were unaware of the risks of methotrexatein relation to alcohol consumption and pregnancy. Conclusions The questionnaire was feasible and reliable, with its results underscoring patient-centric challenges in PsA management, particularly concerning diagnostic delays and medication access, as well as daily life disruptions and misinformation. These findings emphasize the urgency for healthcare reforms aimed at improving diagnosis efficiency, patient education, and streamlined medication access, emphasizing the need for tailored initiatives to improve the healthcare experience for PsA patients.

Abstract Amyloidosis is a localized or systemic disease caused by deposition of proteins in the extracellular space of various organs and tissues. As part of the disease, proteins that were originally soluble misfold and acquire a fibrillar conformation that renders them insoluble and resistant to proteolysis. Systemic amyloidosis is a rare, often underdiagnosed condition. In recent years, the incidence of newly diagnosed cases of amyloidosis has been increasing in association with the aging of the population and greater access to diagnostic tests. From a clinical perspective, systemic amyloidosis is frequently associated with involvement of the kidneys (causing nephrotic syndrome), heart (cardiac failure and arrhythmia), and peripheral nervous system (sensorimotor polyneuropathy and autonomic dysfunction). This condition is important to the rheumatologist for several reasons, such as its systemic involvement that mimics autoimmune rheumatic diseases, its musculoskeletal manifestations, which when recognized can allow the diagnosis of amyloidosis, and also because reactive or secondary AA amyloidosis is a complication of rheumatic inflammatory diseases. The treatment of amyloidosis depends on the type of amyloid protein involved. Early recognition of this rare disease is fundamental for improved clinical outcomes.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar um software para aplicação do Design of Experiments (DOE) como ferramenta de apoio à análise e predição de comportamentos no mercado financeiro. O estudo adotou a metodologia de pesquisa Design Science Research (DSR), permitindo validação contínua e ajustes ao longo do desenvolvimento. A aplicação do DSR foi subdividida em seis fases, sendo elas: identificação do problema; definição dos objetivos do artefato; design e desenvolvimento do artefato; demonstração do artefato; avaliação do artefato; e comunicação dos resultados. Como resultados, a adição da variável MA200 no software aumentou as operações lucrativas para 67% em comparação com os 43% iniciais e a adição de parâmetros extras alcançaram 95% de êxito em ordens, realçando a capacidade do software em prever comportamentos e melhorar vendas.