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This study aimed to investigate the impact of as-received biomass fly ashes (BFA) and green liquor dregs obtained from a pulp and paper plant in Brazil as substitutes for metakaolin in geopolymeric formulations. The properties of this type of waste material vary widely between different industrial plants. This study refrains from subjecting the waste materials to any form of pretreatment, taking into account their organic matter and particle size heterogeneity, requiring extensive characterization to evaluate their influence on the compressive strength, apparent open porosity, and water absorption of the geopolymeric samples. The objective was to assess their potential for upcycling purposes as an alternative to energy-intensive materials, such as ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and advanced ceramics. This potential arises from the ability of alkali-activated materials (AAM) to undergo curing at ambient temperatures, coupled with the possibility of compositions primarily derived from waste materials. To improve the sustainability of the products, the amorphous content of the raw material, which is more reactive than crystalline phases, was quantified and used as the base for mixture ratios. This approach aimed to reduce the requirement for alkaline activators, which have significant environmental impacts, while also increasing the waste content in the formulation. The incorporation of waste materials into the geopolymer matrix generally led to a reduction in the compressive strength compared to the benchmark metakaolin sample (19.4 MPa) but did not present a trend. The dregs led to values of 4.1 MPa at 25 wt% and 7.1 MPa at 50 wt%, a behavior that is somewhat counterintuitive, and BFA at 10 wt% presented 5.7 MPa. Nevertheless, the apparent open porosity remained at high levels for all the samples, close to 50%, and the compressive strength of most of them was over the values obtained for the metakaolin-only samples with mixture ratios calculated from the total composition instead of the amorphous composition. The decrease in strength and the increase in porosity were attributed to the specific characteristics of the waste materials, such as their high crystallinity, presence of organic matter, heterogeneous particle composition, and size. Overall, this study provides insight into the variations in geopolymerization based on the bulk and amorphous content of the aluminosilicate sources and how the characteristics of the waste materials influence the geopolymer matrix. It also highlights how calculating mixture ratios based on the amorphous composition improves the possibility of waste valorization through alkali activation. Additionally, it suggests that BFA and dregs might be effectively utilized in applications other than OPC substitution, such as adsorption, filtration, and catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Distinguishing and categorizing the origin of garlic are highly significant, considering its widespread use as a flavoring agent. With billions of dollars annually in global trade, garlic is frequently susceptible to fraudulent practices., Methodology: Paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS-MS) was employed to quickly analyze garlic samples from distinct geographic origins: China and Brazil. The so-generated PS-MS data were treated with metabolomic multivariate approaches, and the garlic samples from these different geographic regions were easily discriminated., Results: Brazilian garlic was characterized to contain higher levels of amino acids, such as arginine, proline, and valine, and organosulfur compounds, such as allicin, alliin, and l-γ-glutamil-S-allyl-l-cysteine, compared to Chinese garlic. The PS-MS data were treated employing multivariate approaches, typically used in the metabolomics field, and this protocol was promptly able to discern among both types of samples., Conclusion: Hence, this combined strategy holds promise not only as an effective tool for the authentication of the geographical origin of garlic but also as a powerful means for biomarker discovery., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This research focused on the molecular diversity of A. carambola collected from three Brazilian biomes (Cerrado, Amazônia, and Mata Atlântica), whose results revealed significant differences in metabolite profiles among these biomes through PSI-MS analysis. Chemometric analysis provided valuable insights into the clustering patterns and metabolic distinctions. Cerrado and Mata Atlântica biomes exhibited a 70 % similarity, indicating a notable degree of resemblance. In Cerrado, carambolaside A was notably abundant, while carambolaside M was low in Amazônia and moderate in Cerrado samples. Carambolaside B was abundant in Amazônia but relatively low in the Cerrado and Mata Atlântica. In contrast, the Amazônia biome samples appeared to be more dissimilar. In Cerrado, epicatechin, kaempferol, and procyanidin B showed lower abundance, while apigenin, quercetin, myricetin, and rutin displayed moderate levels. Mata Atlântica showed relatively higher levels of kaempferol, quercetin, and rutin. This study indicated the environmental influence on secondary metabolites production in A. carambola fruits., (© 2024 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

Background: The concept introduced by protocols of enhanced recovery after surgery modifies perioperative traditional care in digestive surgery. The integration of these modern recommendations components during the perioperative period is of great importance to ensure fewer postoperative complications, reduced length of hospital stay, and decreased surgical costs., Aims: To emphasize the most important points of a multimodal perioperative care protocol., Methods: Careful analysis of each recommendation of both ERAS and ACERTO protocols, justifying their inclusion in the multimodal care recommended for digestive surgery patients., Results: Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) such as ERAS and ACERTO protocols are a cornerstone in modern perioperative care. Nutritional therapy is fundamental in digestive surgery, and thus, both preoperative and postoperative nutrition care are key to ensuring fewer postoperative complications and reducing the length of hospital stay. The concept of prehabilitation is another key element in ERPs. The handling of crystalloid fluids in a perfect balance is vital. Fluid overload can delay the recovery of patients and increase postoperative complications. Abbreviation of preoperative fasting for two hours before anesthesia is now accepted by various guidelines of both surgical and anesthesiology societies. Combined with early postoperative refeeding, these prescriptions are not only safe but can also enhance the recovery of patients undergoing digestive procedures., Conclusions: This position paper from the Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery strongly emphasizes that the implementation of ERPs in digestive surgery represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, transcending traditional practices and embracing an intelligent approach to patient well-being.

Drugs of abuse are psychoactive substances illicitly distributed and used worldwide. In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, they represent a public health issue and are directly related to several social problems. The recent increase in appearances of new psychoactive substances (NPS), derived from structural modifications of existing psychoactive substances, poses a threat to public health and forensic laboratories worldwide, as little is known about these substances. This study aimed to chemically and geographically map drugs of abuse from blotter papers seized by the Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro State (PCERJ) between 2006 and 2019. High-performance analytical techniques, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Orbitrap mass spectrometry (Orbitrap-MS), combined with statistical analyses, were employed to characterize the seized samples. The most common chemical compounds in NPS found in this study were synthetic phenethylamines, i.e., molecules from the 25I-NBOH (2-(((4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)methyl)phenol) and 25I-NBOMe (2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine) families. Prior to 2014, the majority of seized blotter papers contained lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and were concentrated in the Metropolitan region. An upsurge in blotter paper seizures was observed from 2014 to 2017; the most common substances during this time were from the NBOMe family. NBOH compounds emerged in 2016 in coastal regions with high tourism, reaching over 1300 items only in 2017. Only one synthetic cannabinoid was found among the blotter papers seized in Rio de Janeiro between 2006 and 2019. The assembled chemical data and statistical analyses allowed the mapping and monitoring of the chemical profiles of the seized blotter papers, providing a strong foundation for the understanding of the origins and movement of these drugs around the RJ State., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Pulp and paper mill wastewater (PPMWW) contains high concentrations of recalcitrant compounds that cause toxicity to organisms. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have the ability to degrade these compounds and reduce overall toxicity. Physicochemical characterization and Lactuca sativa toxicity test were conducted to compare the effectiveness of two post-treatments: UV/H 2 O 2 and photo-Fenton. A comparison of four phytotoxicity indexes was carried out. PPMWW from a Brazilian treatment plant was characterized by high values of phenols, color, integrated spectral area (ISA), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), and caused significant inhibition to seedling development. The use of both post-treatments allowed the removal of over 75% of phenols, color, ISA, and COD. Although UV/H 2 O 2 was more effective in removing phenols and ISA, photo-Fenton better reduced phytotoxicity. The most sensitive phytotoxicity indexes were RGIC 0.8 and GIC 80% , whereas SGC 0 , REC -0.25 and REC -0.50 better showed the effectiveness of the post-treatments. We suggest the combined use of two phytotoxicity indexes: one that evaluates the effects on seed germination and, another, on root elongation, e.g., SGC 0 and RGIC 0.8 . Additionally, we recommend the use of ISA for monitoring programs of wastewater treatments because it is a cost-effective approach that allows narrowing down the search and identification of compounds present in complex mixtures., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Pulp and paper industries are very important for developing the Brazilian economy. During production processes, many effluents are generated with high polluting potential. The objective of this study is to conduct an extensive literature review on the characteristics of effluents and treatment forms adopted by Brazilian mills in this industrial sector. Most consulted studies address raw (without treatment) and secondary (after biological treatment) effluents, considering their main characteristics like pH, chemical and biochemical oxygen demands (COD and BOD, respectively), color, solids, organochlorines, toxicity, estrogenic activity, and phenols. Raw effluents differ considerably in composition, depending on the type of paper produced, the pulping process employed, and other steps, like pulp bleaching. Raw effluent characteristics indicate that this effluent cannot be directly disposed of into water bodies, because it does not comply with federal and state disposal standards. Secondary effluents normally comply with Brazilian legislations, although some studies have reported COD and total phenol concentrations higher than disposal standards, suggesting that additional treatments are necessary. Treated effluent reuse was verified in some Brazilian mills, while its disposal in eucalyptus plantations has been considered a promising alternative for irrigation purposes., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

This paper investigates retracted articles indexed in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) Brazil, using bibliometric techniques to identify the characteristics of these retractions and relevant citation trends. All records of retracted articles from the first record in October 2004 to April 2022 were included. Sixty-seven retractions and 870 citations pre- and post-retraction were analyzed. Results indicate a change of scenario that began in 2015, with recurrences of retracted articles allegedly produced by paper mills. The prevalence of retractions derived from professional misconduct in health research and the frequency of post-retraction citations in health sciences raise concerns in the chain of stakeholders, public health, and scientific development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The retraction of health sciences publications is a growing concern. To understand the patterns in a particular country-context and design specific measures to address the problem, it is important to describe and characterize retractions. We aimed to assess the evolution of health science retractions in Brazil and Portugal and to describe their features. We conducted a cross-sectional study including all health sciences retracted articles with at least one author affiliated to a Portuguese or Brazilian institution identified through Retraction Watch database. A total of 182 retracted articles were identified. The number of retractions increased over time, but the proportion related to the whole of publications remained stable. A total of 50.0% and 60.8% of the Portuguese and Brazilian retracted articles, respectively, were published in first and second quartile journals. Scientific misconduct accounted for 60.1% and 55.9% of retractions in Brazil and Portugal. In both countries, the most frequent cause of misconduct was plagiarism. The time from publication to retraction decreases as the journal quartile increases. The retraction of health sciences articles did not decrease over time in Brazil and Portugal. There is a need to develop strategies aimed at preventing, monitoring and managing scientific misconduct according to the country context.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high-production-volume chemical with endocrine disrupting properties commonly used as color developer in thermal paper. Concerns about the potential hazards of human BPA exposure have led to the increasing utilization of alternatives such as bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). This study was designed to assess: (i) BPA, BPS, and BPF concentrations in 112 thermal paper receipts from Brazil, France, and Spain by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS); and (ii) hormone-like activities of these receipts using two receptor-specific bioassays, the E-Screen for (anti-)estrogenicity and PALM luciferase assay for (anti-)androgenicity. BPA was present in 95.3% of receipts from Spain, 90.9% of those from Brazil, and 51.1% of those from France at concentrations up to 20.27 mg/g of paper. Only two samples from Brazil, two from Spain, and ten from France had a BPS concentration ranging from 6.46 to 13.29 mg/g; no BPA or BPS was detected in 27.7% of French samples. No BPF was detected in any receipt. Estrogenic activity was observed in all samples from Brazil and Spain and in 74.5% of those from France. Anti-androgenic activity was observed in > 90% of samples from Brazil and Spain and in 53.2% of those from France. Only 25.5% of French samples were negative for both estrogenic and anti-androgenic activity. Estrogenic and anti-androgenic activities per gram of paper were up to 1.411 µM estradiol (E 2 ) equivalent units (E 2 eq) and up to 359.5 mM procymidone equivalent units (Proceq), respectively. BPA but not BPS concentrations were positively correlated with both estrogenic and anti-androgenic activities. BPA still dominates the thermal paper market in Brazil and Spain, and BPS appears to be one of the main alternatives in France. There is an urgent need to evaluate the safety of alternatives proposed to replace BPA as developer in thermal printing. The large proportion of samples with hormonal activity calls for the adoption of preventive measures., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort) is one of the world's most consumed medicinal plants for treating depression and psychiatric disorders. Counterfeiting can occur in the medicinal plant trade, either due to the lack of active ingredients or the addition of substances not mentioned on the labels, often without therapeutic value or even harmful to health. Hence, 43 samples of St. John's wort commercially acquired in different Brazilian regions and other countries were analyzed by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS-MS) and modeled by principal component analysis. Hence, samples (plants, capsules, and tablets) were extracted with ethanol in a solid-liquid extraction. For the first time, PS-MS analysis allowed the detection of counterfeit H. perforatum samples containing active principles typical of other plants, such as Ageratum conyzoides and Senna spectabilis. About 52.3% of the samples were considered adulterated for having at least one of these two species in their composition. Furthermore, out of 35 samples produced in Brazil, only 13 were deemed authentic, having only H. perforatum. Therefore, there is a clear need to improve these drugs' quality control in Brazil., (© 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Acute cholecystitis (AC) is an acute inflammatory process of the gallbladder that may be associated with potentially severe complications, such as empyema, gangrene, perforation of the gallbladder, and sepsis. The gold standard treatment for AC is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. However, for a small group of AC patients, the risk of laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be very high, mainly in the elderly with associated severe diseases. In these critically ill patients, percutaneous cholecystostomy or endoscopic ultrasound gallbladder drainage may be a temporary therapeutic option, a bridge to cholecystectomy. The objective of this Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery Position Paper is to present new advances in AC treatment in high-risk surgical patients to help surgeons, endoscopists, and physicians select the best treatment for their patients. The effectiveness, safety, advantages, disadvantages, and outcomes of each procedure are discussed. The main conclusions are: a) AC patients with elevated surgical risk must be preferably treated in tertiary hospitals where surgical, radiological, and endoscopic expertise and resources are available; b) The optimal treatment modality for high-surgical-risk patients should be individualized based on clinical conditions and available expertise; c) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains an excellent option of treatment, mainly in hospitals in which percutaneous or endoscopic gallbladder drainage is not available; d) Percutaneous cholecystostomy and endoscopic gallbladder drainage should be performed only in well-equipped hospitals with experienced interventional radiologist and/or endoscopist; e) Cholecystostomy catheter should be removed after resolution of AC. However, in patients who have no clinical condition to undergo cholecystectomy, the catheter may be maintained for a prolonged period or even definitively; f) If the cholecystostomy catheter is maintained for a long period of time several complications may occur, such as bleeding, bile leakage, obstruction, pain at the insertion site, accidental removal of the catheter, and recurrent AC; g) The ideal waiting time between cholecystostomy and cholecystectomy has not yet been established and ranges from immediately after clinical improvement to months. h) Long waiting periods between cholecystostomy and cholecystectomy may be associated with new episodes of acute cholecystitis, multiple hospital readmissions, and increased costs. Finally, when selecting the best treatment option other aspects should also be considered, such as costs, procedures available at the medical center, and the patient's desire. The patient and his family should be fully informed about all treatment options, so they can help making the final decision.

Background: Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis is an essential component of perioperative care. The use of prophylactic regimens of antibiotics is a well-established practice that is encouraged to be implemented in preoperative/perioperative protocols in order to prevent surgical site infections., Aims: The aim of this study was to emphasize the crucial aspects of antibiotic prophylaxis in abdominal surgery., Results: Antibiotic prophylaxis is defined as the administration of antibiotics before contamination occurs, given with the intention of preventing infection by achieving tissue levels of antibiotics above the minimum inhibitory concentration at the time of surgical incision. It is indicated for clean operations with prosthetic materials or in cases where severe consequences may arise in the event of an infection. It is also suitable for all clean-contaminated and contaminated operations. The spectrum of action is determined by the pathogens present at the surgical site. Ideally, a single intravenous bolus dose should be administered within 60 min before the surgical incision. An additional dose should be given in case of hemorrhage or prolonged surgery, according to the half-life of the drug. Factors such as the patient's weight, history of allergies, and the likelihood of colonization by resistant bacteria should be considered. Compliance with institutional protocols enhances the effectiveness of antibiotic use., Conclusion: Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis is associated with reduced rates of surgical site infection, hospital stay, and morbimortality.

Silicon (Si) is a chemical element that is not yet considered essential for plants. However, over the past few decades, an increasing number of scientifi c studies have focused on the role of Si in soil-plant interactions. At the same time, many countries are leading the development and use of silicon-based fertilizers. Si can be taken up by plants predominantly in a mobile form (H4SiO4) in the soil through both passive and active uptake mechanisms. Therefore, Scopus data from 2012 to 2022 were used to understand the implementation and current status of research on the benefi cial effects of silicon fertilizers on soil and plants and the role of soil forms of silicon in improving soil quality. A bibliometric study of articles published in the database on the role of Si in soil and silicon fertilizers was carried out. Various tools, such as Microsoft Offi ce Excel 2021, VOS Viewer and Mapchart.net were used in this study. The fi nal literature includes 440 articles, 82% of which are scientifi c. Over the past decade, the number of published articles has increased signifi cantly. For example, in the years 2021–2022, a total of 91 articles were published, which is six times higher than the number of articles published in 2012–2013 (15 articles). This signifi cant increase in publications highlights the growing interest in the role Si and Si fertilizer research. It was found around 32.04% of China, 13.2% of the USA and 9.8% of Brazil the reviewed publications focused on the role of Si and Si fertilizers studies. Among the authors who published the most articles on this topic during the selected period are Wang X. (with 12 articles), Liang Yu., Rizwan M. and Ali S. (each with 8 articles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed to develop a hybrid model (PCA-ANN) to predict the extractive content in eucalyptus wood clones. The input variables to the virtual analyzer are planting parameters available from the forest inventory, therefore the prediction does not rely on laboratory analysis of the wood samples, affording a quick estimate of the extractive contents. This study further bridges the literature gap on the investigation of the cause of variability of extractive content in eucalyptus wood. The PCA-ANN was identified from experimental data to predict and monitor the extractive content, since laboratory measurements can take several days and become available only after wood processing. The experimental data contained information on ten species of eucalyptus clones from five regions in the extreme south of Bahia, Brazil. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) firstly assessed the impact of planting variables on the extractives content. The variability of the data was represented by eight principal components and the variables that mostly contribute to the extractive content are: potential acidity, iron, saturation of aluminum, magnesium, pH, base saturation, remaining phosphorus, zinc, manganese and copper. The artificial neural network (ANN) with the 8 principal components in the input layer showed that the PCA could effectively reduce the dimensionality of the data. For practical purposes, though, the ANN with 10 input variables and 16 neurons in the hidden layer, presenting an average relative deviation of 1.5%, is recommended. The prediction of the extractive content is essential to allow preventive management practices toward the improvement of yield and quality of the cellulosic pulp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycled paper has the potential to be used as a mulch for vegetable production and can be adopted for the cultivation of Italian zucchini. However, there have been no studies about the water savings or crop coefficient values used in irrigation management in this system; therefore, there is a need for more research. In view of the above, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of recycled paper mulch on evaporation and evapotranspiration in Italian zucchini and to determine the crop coefficients in its developmental stages. The study was carried out in two cultivation cycles conducted at the Lysimetric Station in Viçosa, MG, Brazil. The experiments were installed in a randomized block design with four replicates. Four lysimeter cultivation treatments were applied: without mulch (C); with recycled paper as mulch (CP); with only recycled paper (P); and with Bahia grass (G). Irrigation and drainage measurements were performed daily to calculate the crop and reference evapotranspiration, and thus the crop coefficient (Kc) values. The following characteristics were evaluated: fruit yield, NDVI and water productivity. For the cultivation of Italian zucchini using paper as mulch, Kc values of 0.54, 0.77 and 0.44 and Kcb values of 0.15, 0.45 and 0.18 are recommended for the initial, intermediate and final stages, respectively. NDVI can be used to estimate the Kc values for Italian zucchini. The use of recycled paper as mulch reduces the water consumption of Italian zucchini. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Aspects related to water consumption of P. peruviana were evaluated under different managements. • P. peruviana vegetative growth is favored by high temperatures. • Mulching reduced Kc values of P. peruviana in all phenological stages. • The Kc of P. peruviana can be estimated by means of NDVI. • Recycled paper mulch reduced soil evaporation and water consumption by the P. peruviana crop by 30.6%. The application of soil mulching has been widely used to increase crop production; however, few research studies have comprehensively evaluated the use of recycled paper as soil mulch and its effects in relation to water savings and crop coefficients. The objective was to evaluate the effects of mulching with recycled paper on evaporation and evapotranspiration of Physalis peruviana and to determine the crop coefficients in its development stages. The study was carried out in two cultivation cycles at the Lysimetric Station of Viçosa, MG, Brazil. The experiments were set up in a randomized block design with four replicates, where four lysimeter treatments were applied: P. peruviana cultivation without recycled paper mulch (C); P. peruviana cultivation with recycled paper mulch (CP); lysimeter with only recycled paper mulch (P); and lysimeter cultivated with Bahiagrass (G). Irrigation and drainage volumes in each lysimeter were measured daily to calculate crop evapotranspiration (ETc), reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and, therefore, the crop coefficients (Kc). In addition, crop phenology, fruit characteristics, gas exchange, yield and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) were also evaluated. For the first cultivation cycle, over 218 days, the values of water consumption in the lysimeters C, CP, P and G were 405, 291, 88 and 444 mm, respectively. For the second cycle, over 206 days, the values of water consumption were 416, 279, 94 and 331 mm, respectively. Recycled paper significantly reduced water consumption, especially in the initial and late-season stages, also reducing Kc values. The Kc values for P. peruviana were 0.25, 0.55, 1.05 and 0.46 in cultivation with mulch and 0.45, 0.85, 1.35 and 0.48 in cultivation without mulch for the initial, development, mid-season and late-season stages, respectively. NDVI can be used to estimate the Kc values of P. peruviana. Recycled paper mulch reduced water consumption by 30.6% and increased gas exchange and yield of P. peruviana in cycles 1 and 2, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an urgent need for energy sources with lower environmental impacts to dispose of waste generated by human activities. In this context, a holistic analysis of energy use of waste from agricultural and forestry activities, animal excreta, urban solid waste and sewage, waste from the pulp and paper industry and charcoal in Brazil is presented. Based on a bibliographic review, the current Brazilian panorama is presented in figures giving, a vision of national potential for harnessing bioenergy from this theoretical and technical potential. The QGIS3.24.2 Tisler geoprocessing tool was used to generate potentiality maps from census data of microregions and municipalities available in the IBGE database (2022) and in the Geocentric Reference System for the Americas (SIRGAS 2000). The results of map analysis by micro‐regions of the primary energy from agricultural residues highlight sugar cane, corn and soybeans crops, followed by wastewater and animal excreta. They stood out amont the studied sources of biomass with technical potentials of 53.17, 15.23 and 6.81 GW, respectively. With these results, it is concluded that Brazil could enable around 75 GW installed power, reusing all biomass, potentially 12.5 PJ, without considering the 16 GW already installed from sugarcane and paper black liquor plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking as an example the very interesting and motivating paper by Sousa Ribeiro et al. (2021) an attempt is made of providing a couple of insights into the decision making process from the point of view of the potentially helpful aspects of data analysis and OR-related modelling. These are just hints and suggestions, meant primarily to emphasise the multifaceted character of the decision making situations and processes, especially when concerning more complex issues. While the course of the procedure proposed and exemplified in Sousa Ribeiro et al. (2021) is treated as fully correctly and successfully carried out to the end, we wish to show the potential use of information, constituting in a sense a "by-product" of such a procedure, or, actually, of any similar procedure, aimed at supporting decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the characteristics of the top 100 most-cited papers related to tooth bleaching. A literature search was performed on the Web of Science up to March 2022. The number of citations was cross-matched with the citation count on Scopus and Google Scholar. The following data were collected: number and density of citations; authorship; year and journal of publication; study design and thematic; keywords; institution and country of origin. Spearman's correlation and Poisson regression were used to determine associations between the number of citations and study characteristics. The VOSviewer software was used to generate collaborative network maps for the authors and keywords. The number of citations ranged from 66 to 450. Papers were published between 1981 and 2020. The most frequent study design and topic were laboratory-based studies and 'interaction of the bleaching agent with dental tissues', respectively. Cochran M, Loguercio AD, Matis B, Reis A, and Suliman M were the authors with the highest number of papers. The countries with the most papers were the United States of America (USA) (28%) and Brazil (20%). Indiana University and State University of Ponta Grossa were the institutions with the most papers (6% each). There was a very strong correlation among the number of citations of the three databases. The 100 most-cited papers related to tooth bleaching were mainly published by the USA and Brazil, with laboratory-based studies addressing topics related to the effects of bleaching agents on tooth structure being the most prevalent.

A method for determining thallium in water samples via solid sampling high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (SS HR-CS GF AAS) after preconcentration using chromatographic filter paper as a solid support was proposed. The effects of pH, stirring time, and sample volume in the analyte preconcentration step were studied. The presence of potential interferences in the sample and the type of masking agent were also examined. In the proposed procedure, the sample was placed in contact with the solid phase in a polypropylene tube, and after stirring for 3 min, thallium determination was performed via HR-CS GF AAS directly on chromatographic filter paper. A preconcentration factor of 55, a precision of 9.4% (n = 10; 10 μg L−1), a limit of detection of 0.018 μg L−1, and a limit of quantification of 0.059 μg L−1 were achieved. Analyte addition and recovery tests were performed, and the results ranged from 91% to 110%. The accuracy of the method was evaluated by analyzing a water reference material. The procedure was used to determine thallium in water samples collected in Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil. The results were compared with those obtained using inductively coupled plasma‒mass spectrometry (ICP‒MS). Thallium concentrations in the analyzed samples ranged from <0.059 to 0.80 μg L−1. [Display omitted] • A method for Tl determination in water samples using SS HR-CS GF AAS is presented. • Thallium preconcentration using chromatographic filter paper as a solid phase was performed. • Thallium determination was carried out via HR-CS GF AAS directly on chromatographic paper. • This method was used to analyze river water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classifying papers according to the fields of knowledge is critical to clearly understand the dynamics of scientific (sub)fields, their leading questions, and trends. Most studies rely on journal categories defined by popular databases such as WoS or Scopus, but some experts find that those categories may not correctly map the existing subfields nor identify the subfield of a specific article. This study addresses the classification problem using data from each paper (Abstract, Title, Keywords, and the KeyWords Plus) and the help of experts to identify the existing subfields and journals exclusive of each subfield. These "exclusive journals" are critical to obtain, through a pattern detection procedure that uses machine learning techniques (from software NVivo), a list of the frequent terms that are specific to each subfield. With that list of terms and with the help of optimization procedures, we can identify to which subfield each paper most likely belongs. This study can contribute to support scientific policy‐makers, funding, and research institutions—via more accurate academic performance evaluations—, to support editors in their tasks to redefine the scopes of journals, and to support popular databases in their processes of refining categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) and food allergy (FA) are common conditions, especially during the first 12 months of life. When GOR leads to troublesome symptoms, that affect the daily functioning of the infant and family, it is referred to as GOR disease (GORD). The role of food allergens as a cause of GORD remains controversial. This European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) position paper aims to review the evidence for FA-associated GORD in young children and translate this into clinical practice that guides healthcare professionals through the diagnosis of suspected FA-associated GORD and medical and dietary management. The task force (TF) on non-IgE mediated allergy consists of EAACI experts in paediatric gastroenterology, allergy, dietetics and psychology from Europe, United Kingdom, United States, Turkey and Brazil. Six clinical questions were formulated, amended and approved by the TF to guide this publication. A systematic literature search using PubMed, Cochrane and EMBASE databases (until June 2021) using predefined inclusion criteria based on the 6 questions was used. The TF also gained access to the database from the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology working group, who published guidelines on GORD and ensured that all publications used within that position paper were included. For each of the 6 questions, practice points were formulated, followed by a modified Delphi method consisting of anonymous web-based voting that was repeated with modified practice points where required, until at least 80% consensus for each practice point was achieved. This TF position paper shares the process, the discussion and consensus on all practice points on FA-associated GORD., (© 2022 European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This paper reports the use of paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) combined with chemometric models to analyze seized samples of anabolic steroids. Because many forensic laboratories typically demand high-throughput analysis for this type of sample, we developed a quicker and simpler alternative analytical method for routine analysis with minimal sample preparation. Oily samples (n = 39) resulting from seizures carried out by Brazilian Federal and State Police units were selected for this study. These samples were analyzed by PS-MS in the positive ion mode and full scan (50-1000 m/z), providing spectra containing patterns of the respective active ingredients present in each product. A principal component analysis (PCA) model was built, which discriminated samples mainly according to their active ingredients and allowed to detect and characterize some cases of product counterfeiting. The variable selection method ordered predictors selection was employed jointly with PCA to improve sample cluster separation and to provide model simplification. The final PCA model was built with three principal components and using only 28 spectral variables. This model accounted for 69.82% of the variance and discriminated samples according to their specific active ingredients., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Although the importance of understanding the social and cultural processes mediating pre-service teachers' expansion of the power to act has been increasingly recognized lately, the way the concept of "agency" is portrayed in most of the studies focuses almost exclusively on the subject of activity and therefore, there is insufficient theoretical attention to the reverse side of agency, the experience of being subject to and subjected to conditions. In this paper, the authors exemplify the process of "conscientização" and agential development in the case study of Jefferson, a new teacher engaged in a school teaching education program. The purpose of this paper is to show how new forms of consciousness, expansion of the power to act, and increasing control over conditions simultaneously emerge for teachers in training during praxis and how agency is played out by the relations between being subject to and subjected to conditions. Implications for teaching education programs are discussed.

In July 2015, China's national legislature brought in prosecutor-led civil environmental public interest litigation ("EPIL") for thirteen selected provincial areas of the country. After a two-year legal experiment, this prosecutor-led civil EPIL system was then established nationwide in July 2017. Yet, can it be said that prosecutorial regulators in China are in fact a paper tiger? Drawing upon content analysis of the 655 prosecutor-led civil EPILs and in-depth interviews with twelve frontline prosecutors and judges, this article examines the dynamics of regulatory practice and the motivation of the Chinese prosecutorial organs to engage in environmental regulation through litigation. Based upon the above two legislative landmarks in the law reform of this area, the regulatory practice of prosecutorial organs can be viewed as having occurred in three stages, with each stage featuring a distinct regulatory model: ad hoc regulation through local innovation before July 2015, forced regulation during the legal experiment from July 2015 to July 2017, and perfunctory regulation after the nationwide establishment of the prosecutor-led civil EPIL system in July 2017. The data shows that the Chinese prosecutorial organs have engaged in a larger number of such lawsuits since the second stage, but they have shown a strong preference for cases with less complicated facts, weak and small defendants, and minor environmental violations. Three factors that influence regulatory motivation are employed to analyse the change in regulatory models: the ambiguity of the law, the top-down political pressure for regulation, and the cost of regulation. This study highlights the very limited effectiveness of vertical political pressure in boosting prosecutorial regulation and the strong impacts of the cost of regulation and the ambiguity of the law. In particular, the high cost of regulation that takes weak regulatory capacity, lack of regulatory autonomy, and the winning rate-oriented performance appraisal system into account have significantly weakened the motivation of prosecutorial organs to pursue civil EPIL. The findings of this study echo the conditions present in the successful prosecutorial regulations in Brazil and contribute to the scholarship about prosecutorial regulations in the field of environmental protection in the Global South. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of handmade paper is a sustainable process that has a relevant social and economic function, especially in developing countries. In the search for alternative, renewable and low-cost sources for cellulose and handmade paper production, we evaluated the morphological characteristics and chemical composition of fibers of leaves and culms from Arundo donax, a fast-growing invasive grass that was introduced in several countries, including Brazil. The fibers of A. donax are long (leaf = 1.73 mm; culm = 1.26 mm), with thick cell walls (leaf = 4.97 μm; culm = 5.36 μm), which provide folding endurance and result in a rougher and more voluminous paper. Additionally, the high values of cell wall fraction (leaf = 78%; culm = 82%) indicate great fiber stiffness. The relatively high values of cellulose (leaf = 38.9%; culm = 39.4%) and low values of lignin (leaf = 12.1%; culm = 13.0%) in the fibers make its use in paper production advantageous, as it reduces costs with chemical products in pulping. Fibers from A. donax are a viable alternative material to produce cellulose and handmade paper or can be mixed with other raw materials to produce different types of paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high number of citations can indicate the potential of any specific paper to influence other research and generate changes in clinical practice. Analyzing the most-cited papers in a certain scientific field may assist researchers to identify the influential papers as well their main characteristics. The present study aimed to analyze the 100 most-cited papers concerning dental fluorosis (DF) through a bibliometric review. A search was performed in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS-CC) database in November 2021. The papers were displayed in descending order according to the number of citations in WoS-CC. Two independent researchers performed the selection. Scopus and Google Scholar were used to compare the number of citations with WoS-CC. The following data were extracted from the papers: title, authors, number and density of citations, institution, country, continent, year of publication, journal title, keywords, study design, and theme. Collaborative networks were generated using the VOSviewer software. The top 100 most-cited papers were published between 1974 and 2014 and were cited 6,717 times (ranging from 35 to 417). Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology (24%), Journal of Dental Research (21%), Journal of Public Health Dentistry (17%), and Caries Research (13%) published the most papers. Observational studies (60%) and literature reviews (19%) were the most common study designs. The main topics were epidemiology (44%) and fluoride intake (32%). The countries with the highest number of papers were the USA (44%), Canada (10%), and Brazil (9%). The University of Iowa (USA) had the most papers (12%). Levy SM was the author with the highest number of papers (12%). The 100 most-cited papers on DF were mainly observational studies focused on epidemiology and originated in North America. There were few interventional studies and systematic reviews among the most-cited papers concerning this topic., (© 2023 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine and metabolic disruptor commonly employed as a color developer in thermal papers. Consequently, BPA derived from thermal papers has been considered an important source of exposure for humans, since this chemical may migrate from paper to skin upon contact. Further, due to recent restrictions on BPA use in some countries, it has been replaced by a new analogue, bisphenol S (BPS). The aim of the present study was to determine levels of BPA and BPS in 190 different thermal receipts, randomly collected from different locations in São Paulo State, Brazil, including receipts from supermarkets, general and fast-food restaurants, gas stations, bus and airplane tickets, and credit card and bank accounts. BPA and/or BPS were detected in 98% of samples at concentrations ranging from below the quantification limit to 4.3% (mg/100 mg paper). The obtained values were higher than amounts previously reported in other countries. The estimated daily intake through dermal absorption from handling of thermal receipt papers was estimated on the basis of concentrations and frequencies of handling of papers by humans in both the general population and occupationally exposed individuals. Fifth percentile, median, and 95th percentile daily intakes by the general population were 0.44, 1.42, and 2 μg/d, respectively, whereas the corresponding values for occupationally exposed population are 21.8, 71 and 101 μg/d. The potential adverse consequences of elevated occupational exposure are currently being examined.

Long term annual electricity consumption forecasting is very important for country's energy planning. These forecasts are influenced by several factors (political, technological, social, environmental and economic), and brings with itself a high uncertainty degree in its results and difficulties in the evaluation of such factors over them. A methodology that eases to take into account these factors aiming improve the results and help understanding the electricity consumption annual trajectory till the forecast horizon is, therefore, very much useful and desired. So, we propose a modelling structure using the bottom-up approach to cope with these matters and to evaluate the trajectory of long term annual electricity consumption of a sector of the Brazilian industry up to 2050 considering energy efficiency (EE) scenarios. It is important to emphasize that Brazil is a developing country, and to build a bottom-up approach was a challenge, mainly due to the fact that this model is data intensive. In particular, this modelling was applied in the pulp and paper sector. The main goal was to consider technological diffusion scenarios in EE measures, and show the energy savings achieved. The results point an energy savings in the order of 25% when an actual scenario is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subsector of pulp and paper presented in 2013 an electric power consumption of 9.3% of electricity consumption in the industrial sector in Brazil. It experienced a significant growth of production in the last 20 years, exceeding 160%, and their consumption of electricity increased by 130%, reaching the level of 19,594GWh. Due to its characteristics, with a known structure and production processes, and its importance in the country's industrial sector, this subsector was selected for study in this paper, to evaluate the behavior of its long-term annual electricity demand, at the horizon of 20 years ahead, in energy efficiency scenarios through bottom-up approach. This approach is data intensive and requires data with good quality; it consists of a hierarchical structure that enables to check how specific actions can affect the results at each level and its effect on higher levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral leishmaniasis remains a serious public health issue, and Brazil was among the seven countries with the highest prevalence of this disease worldwide. The measures to control this disease are not easily developed, and the improvement of its diagnosis, surveillance, and control is still needed. This study aimed to carry out the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnosis of Leishmania infantum in vector samples in some municipalities of the State of São Paulo, which included two municipalities with human disease transmission and two with dog transmission only. Vectors were collected in traps with luminous bait. Next, they were killed at −4 °C and kept in 70% alcohol. Groups of ten female insects (pools) were mashed on cation exchange paper (fine cellulose phosphate with 18 µEq/cm² ionic exchange capacity) for DNA extraction. The PCR was carried out to identify the natural infection of the Leishmania genus in female Lutzomyia longipalpis (Lu. Longipalpis). Out of the 3,880 Lu. longipalpis phlebotomines, 1060 were female and 2820 were male (3:1). The method used to extract the DNA in pools of ten phlebotomines and the PCR resulted in sensitivity, specificity, practicality, and faster analyses when compared to the individual analysis method. The procedure described can be used on a large scale in the leishmaniasis epidemiological surveillance, enabling a higher number of analyses and the optimization of human resources because the traditional diagnostic method is carried out via desiccation of the insect digestive system and microscopic examination, which is time-demanding and there is the need of manual skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Five Brazilian coats of arms paintings are characterized in a microanalytical approach • Artist's palette comprises traditional pigments such as ultramarine blue, indigo, Prussian blue, lead chromate and vermillion • Aluminium and brass are found in silvering and gilding instead of silver and gold, contradicting heraldic guidelines • Differences in the colorant palette and signature raise questions about the authorship of a painting • Crystalline efflorescences in one painting may indicate paint extender migration or past microbiological activity Heraldry in Latin American art of the twentieth century can be considered rare. In this context, the material composition of coat of arms paintings on paper attributed to the Brazilian painter José Wasth Rodrigues is investigated for the first time using a microanalytical approach. Microsamples from 5 municipal coats of arms dated 1932 were analysed using Raman microscopy, Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). SEM-EDS results revealed the artist's choice of using metallic aluminium and brass in the representation of silver and gold colours, respectively. Raman microscopy analyses showed the use of traditional inorganic pigments, such as ultramarine blue, indigo, Prussian blue, yellow chromates and vermillion. In contrast, the results showed that the painting with an unusual signature attributed to the artist (W. instead of J.W.R, commonly found) contains synthetic organic dyes Orange 5, Red 53, and Yellow 1 (introduced in the 1900s). This discovery raised hypothesis of questioning authorship for this particular painting. ATR-FTIR analysis of a paint fragment from one painting confirmed the use of gum arabic as a binder. ATR-FTIR analyses of efflorescences collected from a blue paint layer of a particular coat of arms suggest protein and lipid content, raising suspicion of either the use of the tempera technique in this particular paint or remains of a past microorganism activity. Robust information was obtained on the chemical characterization of the coat of arms, enhancing comprehension of the painting techniques employed by the artist and providing insight into the production of heraldic art in Brazil at the beginning of the 20th-century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]