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Background: Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, whose viruses are transmitted mainly by Aedes aegypti, significantly impact human health worldwide. Despite the recent development of promising vaccines against the dengue virus, controlling these arbovirus diseases still depends on mosquito surveillance and control. Nonetheless, several studies have shown that these measures are not sufficiently effective or ineffective. Identifying higher-risk areas in a municipality and directing control efforts towards them could improve it. One tool for this is the premise condition index (PCI); however, its measure requires visiting all buildings. We propose a novel approach capable of predicting the PCI based on facade street-level images, which we call PCINet. Methodology: Our study was conducted in Campinas, a one million-inhabitant city in São Paulo, Brazil. We surveyed 200 blocks, visited their buildings, and measured the three traditional PCI components (building and backyard conditions and shading), the facade conditions (taking pictures of them), and other characteristics. We trained a deep neural network with the pictures taken, creating a computational model that can predict buildings' conditions based on the view of their facades. We evaluated PCINet in a scenario emulating a real large-scale situation, where the model could be deployed to automatically monitor four regions of Campinas to identify risk areas. Principal findings: PCINet produced reasonable results in differentiating the facade condition into three levels, and it is a scalable strategy to triage large areas. The entire process can be automated through data collection from facade data sources and inferences through PCINet. The facade conditions correlated highly with the building and backyard conditions and reasonably well with shading and backyard conditions. The use of street-level images and PCINet could help to optimize Ae. aegypti surveillance and control, reducing the number of in-person visits necessary to identify buildings, blocks, and neighborhoods at higher risk from mosquito and arbovirus diseases. Author summary: The strategies to control Ae. aegypti require intensive work and considerable financial resources, are time-consuming, and are commonly affected by operational problems requiring urgent improvement. The PCI is a good tool for identifying higher-risk areas; however, its measure requires a high amount of human and material resources, and the aforementioned issues remain. In this paper, we propose a novel approach capable of predicting the PCI of buildings based on street-level images. This first work combines deep learning-based methods with street-level data to predict facade conditions. Considering the good results obtained with PCINet and the good correlations of facade conditions with PCI components, we could use this methodology to classify building conditions without visiting them physically. With this, we intend to overcome the high cost of identifying high-risk areas. Although we have a long road ahead, our results show that PCINet could help to optimize Ae. aegypti and arbovirus surveillance and control, reducing the number of in-person visits necessary to identify buildings or areas at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The particulate matter PM 10 concentrations have been impacting hospital admissions due to respiratory diseases. The air pollution studies seek to understand how this pollutant affects the health system. Since prediction involves several variables, any disparity causes a disturbance in the overall system, increasing the difficulty of the models' development. Due to the complex nonlinear behavior of the problem and their influencing factors, Artificial Neural Networks are attractive approaches for solving estimations problems. This paper explores two neural network architectures denoted unorganized machines: the echo state networks and the extreme learning machines. Beyond the standard forms, models variations are also proposed: the regularization parameter (RP) to increase the generalization capability, and the Volterra filter to explore nonlinear patterns of the hidden layers. To evaluate the proposed models' performance for the hospital admissions estimation by respiratory diseases, three cities of São Paulo state, Brazil: Cubatão, Campinas and São Paulo, are investigated. Numerical results show the standard models' superior performance for most scenarios. Nevertheless, considering divergent intensity in hospital admissions, the RP models present the best results in terms of data dispersion. Finally, an overall analysis highlights the models' efficiency to assist the hospital admissions management during high air pollution episodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land surface models such as the Joint UK Land Environment Simulator (JULES) are increasingly used for hydrological assessments because of their state-of-the-art representation of physical processes and versatility. Unlike statistical models and AI models, the JULES model simulates the physical water flux under given meteorological conditions, allowing us to understand and investigate the cause and effect of environmental changes. Here we explore the possibility of this approach using a case study in the Atibaia River basin, which serves as a major water supply for metropolitan regions of Campinas and São Paulo, Brazil. The watershed is suffering increasing hydrological risks, which could be attributed to environmental changes, such as urbanization and agricultural activity. The increasing risks highlight the importance of evaluating the land surface processes of the watershed systematically. We explore the use of local precipitation collection in conjunction with data from a global meteorological reanalysis to simulate the basin hydrology. Our results show that key hydrological fluxes in the basin can be represented by the JULES model simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polyether ionophores residues were monitored in pasteurized milk samples. • Monensin was the only ionophore found in 18 of 40 samples. • Concentrations of 0.1 to 0.27 μg kg−1 were quantified in 13 samples. • Monensin dietary intake through milk do not indicate a consumer risk. This paper aimed to survey the occurrence of six polyether ionophores (lasalocid, maduramycin, monensin, narasin, salinomycin and semduramycin) in pasteurized milk using a validated method by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). For that, 40 samples of pasteurized milk, from seven brands, collected in six locations (supermarkets, grocery stores and greengrocers) in the metropolitan region of São Paulo and Campinas, São Paulo State, Brazil, were evaluated. Sampling included whole (18), skimmed (8) and semi-skimmed (10) milk as well as lactose-free (4) products. Only monensin antibiotic residues were found in the analyzed samples. This ionophore was confirmed in 45% of the samples and quantified in 32.5% at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 0.27 μg kg−1. The positive samples were whole or semi-skimmed milk. Considering the levels of monensin reported in the present study and data on milk consumption in Brazil, an exposure assessment indicated that the intake of this antibiotic does not represent a risk to health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Rainfall intensity across different reference periods varies significantly. • Exposure of more than 5000 people in the worst rainfall projections. • The velocity of water downhill was considered hazardous. • IDF curve has proved to be an useful indicator for urban planning This paper highlights the effects of sealed surfaces in flood hazard in order to identify population exposure to heavy rain within Cabras watershed located in Campinas Metropolitan Area (Sao Paulo). We applied a set of methods compiled into an integrated system by the Department of Hydraulic Engineering of University of Sao Paulo (USP). We observed that, for relatively frequent flood events with 10y of return periods, changes in LULC represent an increase of maximum water depths that vary up to 0,036 m to 0,043 m, respectively. For less frequent events, with return periods of 100y, the maximum increase of water depth varies from 0,064 m to 0,071 m. Although the water depth reached is not considered risky (e.g., for an adult walking in flows), the water velocity (v = 2,32 m/s) and the amount of water downhill (∼5,000 litters) are considered high (i.e. pedestrians can be swept along streets during major storm events). Our scenarios project more than 5,000 people exposed, with a significant parcel at slums. Summarizing, an explicit innovation strategy helped us to identify the number of people at risk in ungauged basins, which can be beneficial for municipal decisions, especially if effectively implemented to reduce disaster risk and nature based solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the relationship between lightning and thunderstorm microphysics, this paper aims to determine the averaged vertical profiles of polarimetric variables for different classes of lightning density according to the GLM grid and then evaluate the potential use of these profiles for data assimilation in models with high spatial and temporal resolutions. Polarimetric variables from an X-band radar located in Campinas-SP and data from the Brazilian Network were used to detect the microphysics properties and atmospheric discharges of clouds (GLM proxy). The main differences between the lightning density class-averaged profiles for the four variables of Z H , Z DR , K DP and ρ HV were observed in the region above the melting layer. For the most intense lightning classes, the signatures associated with high concentrations of ice particles at high altitudes, the presence of supercooled drops above the freezing level and the occurrence of large and more oblate raindrops were observed. To analyze the possible use of reflectivity profiles as a way to indirectly assimilate GLM information into forecast models, two case studies were conducted using the Weather Research and Forecasting model. The analyses and forecasts obtained with the assimilation of radar data (reflectivity factor and Doppler winds) and with the indirect assimilation of GLM lightning density rates through mean reflectivity profiles were evaluated against a control run assimilating no data. Overall, the two assimilation experiments offered substantial improvements over the control run in terms of short-term forecasts of reflectivity patterns and storm motion. These encouraging results supports the ability of the GLM data to positively contribute to nowcasting and forecasting of convective-scale systems, especially over the vast regions of the South American continent currently suffering from limited and, even, an utter lack of observations. • Vertical reflectivity profile can represent systems of different lighting intensity. • The most significant differences among profiles are mainly in high altitudes. • Tests assimilating these profiles suggested they can improve short-term forecast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The presence of metals in vehicle emissions is due to several factors, such as the composition of fuels and lubricating oils, the wear of engine components, and their use in catalytic converters. It is known that the soil near highways is greatly affected by heavy vehicle traffic, since the use of highways is of fundamental importance for the flow of goods and public transport, especially in Brazil, street transport being the main form of transport in the country. Considering the scenario described, the main objective of this study was to monitor the concentration of potentially toxic elements in surface soils located on the medians of the main access highways in the city of Campinas (SP—Brazil) and classify the soils through geoaccumulation index. Using SR-TXRF it was possible to detect and determine the concentrations of 5 elements of toxic-environmental interest (Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb) and 11 natural soil composition elements (Al, Si, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Rb, and Sr). To evaluate the influence of highway distance on elementary concentrations, ANOVA and Tukey statistical tests were applied. Nickel, Cu, and Zn showed a decrease in their concentrations moving away from the highway, indicating their relation with vehicular emissions. Applying principal components analysis (PCA), it was possible to identify four groups of the quantified elements: those mainly related to the soil itself, those produced by traffic of automotive vehicles, and those emitted by industrial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a tribute to human rights and anti-slavery advocate Abdias do Nascimento to the African-Brazilian people in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He is remembered for his political activism when he joined with the Afro-Campineiro Congress to protest against racial discrimination in Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Moreover, his life and career has been regarded in four major parts including his early years up to the end of World War II, to the mid-1960s, and towards his death in May 2011.

Background: Many factors have been associated with circulation of the dengue fever virus and vector, although the dynamics of transmission are not yet fully understood. The aim of this work is to estimate the spatial distribution of the risk of dengue fever in an area of continuous dengue occurrence. Methods: This is a spatial population-based case-control study that analyzed 538 cases and 727 controls in one district of the municipality of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, from 2006-2007, considering socio-demographic, ecological, case severity, and household infestation variables. Information was collected by in-home interviews and inspection of living conditions in and around the homes studied. Cases were classified as mild or severe according to clinical data, and they were compared with controls through a multinomial logistic model. A generalized additive model was used in order to include space in a non-parametric fashion with cubic smoothing splines. Results: Variables associated with increased incidence of all dengue cases in the multiple binomial regression model were: higher larval density (odds ratio (OR) = 2.3 (95%CI: 2.0-2.7)), reports of mosquito bites during the day (OR = 1.8 (95%CI: 1.4-2.4)), the practice of water storage at home (OR = 2.5 (95%CI: 1.4, 4.3)), low frequency of garbage collection (OR = 2.6 (95%CI: 1.6-4.5)) and lack of basic sanitation (OR = 2.9 (95%CI: 1.8-4.9)). Staying at home during the day was protective against the disease (OR = 0.5 (95%CI: 0.3-0.6)). When cases were analyzed by categories (mild and severe) in the multinomial model, age and number of breeding sites more than 10 were significant only for the occurrence of severe cases (OR = 0.97, (95%CI: 0.96-0.99) and OR = 2.1 (95%CI: 1.2-3.5), respectively. Spatial distribution of risks of mild and severe dengue fever differed from each other in the 2006/2007 epidemic, in the study area. Conclusions: Age and presence of more than 10 breeding sites were significant only for severe cases. Other predictors of mild and severe cases were similar in the multiple models. The analyses of multinomial models and spatial distribution maps of dengue fever probabilities suggest an area-specific epidemic with varying clinical and demographic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this work was to investigate the occurrence of emerging contaminants in drinking water of the city of Campinas, Brazil. Tap water samples were analyzed using SPE-GC-MS for 11 contaminants of recent environmental concern. Six emerging contaminants (stigmasterol, cholesterol, bisphenol A, caffeine, estrone, and 17β-estradiol) were found in the samples. The latter two were detected only during the dry season, with concentrations below quantification limits. Stigmasterol showed the highest average concentration (0.34 ± 0.13 µg L−1), followed by cholesterol (0.27 ± 0.07 µg L−1), caffeine (0.22 ± 0.06 µg L−1), and bisphenol A (0.16 ± 0.03 µg L−1). In Campinas, where surface drinking water supplies receive large amounts of raw sewage inputs, the emerging contaminants levels in drinking waters were higher than median values compiled for drinking and finished water samples around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the daily activity patterns of adult male and female satyrine butterflies to increase their chances to encounter sexual partner. It states that the study was conducted in two adjacent areas of forest edge in Campinas, São Paulo in southeastern Brazil. The study shows that Hermeuptychia hermes presented two abundance peaks over day, while Paryphthiamoides phronius abundance increase in the morning and remained stable during the afternoon.

An X-ray Transmission Microtomography (CT) system combined with an X-ray Fluorescence Microtomography (XRFCT) system was implemented in the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory (LNLS), Campinas, Brazil. The main of this work is to determine the elemental distribution map in reference samples and breast tissue samples in order to verify the concentration of some elements correlated with characteristics and pathology of each tissue observed by the transmission CT. The experiments were performed at the X-Ray Fluorescence beamline (D09B-XRF) of the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory, Campinas, Brazil. A quasi-monochromatic beam produced by a multilayer monochromator was used as an incident beam. The sample was placed on a high precision goniometer and translation stages that allow rotating as well as translating it perpendicularly to the beam. The fluorescence photons were collected with an energy dispersive HPGe detector placed at 900 to the incident beam, while transmitted photons were detected with a fast Na(Tl) scintillation counter placed behind the sample on the beam direction. The CT images were reconstructed using a filtered-back projection algorithm and the XRFCT were reconstructed using a filtered-back projection algorithm with absorption corrections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indigenous pitanga ( Eugenia uniflora L.) is now marketed and commercially processed in Brazil. In the present work, the carotenoids of the pitanga fruit from two states and at two stages of ripening, as well as of processed pitanga products (frozen pulp and juice, the brands being designated as A, B and C) commercialized in Campinas, São Paulo, were determined by HPLC. As compared to ripe pitanga from Medianeira, Paraná, those from Campinas had significantly higher (all- E)-lycopene (14.0 vs. 71.1 μg/g), (13 Z)-lycopene (1.1 vs. 5.0 μg/g) and (all- E)-γ-carotene (1.6 vs. 3.8 μg/g) levels. Significant increases in most of the carotenoids occurred from the partially ripe to the ripe fruits, with (all- E)-lycopene doubling its concentration in fruits from both states. Pitanga was found to be one of the richest fruit sources of carotenoids, particularly lycopene, but the processed products had much lower lycopene content. The mean (all- E)-lycopene concentration was 16.6 μg/g for frozen pulp brand A, 23.0 μg/g for bottled juice brand B and 25.6 μg/g for bottled juice brand C. Optimization of processing is therefore needed to guarantee better retention of this important carotenoid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes the results of a study on user behavior in relation to environmental comfort conditions. A case study was conducted in school buildings in the region of the city of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. The methodology adopted was based on field observations of technical aspects of the school environment and of types of user behavior (interventions) that introduced changes in the classroom space. Questionnaires were applied to users. A follow-up study evaluated user perception of possible interventions. User knowledge on environmental comfort concepts was also assessed. The results of the case study showed few interventions by users in favor of their own comfort. Low participation results may, in part, be attributed to the context, where users, school children, are subject to discipline codes with restricted spontaneous behavior in favor of individual comfort. Environmental awareness should therefore be stimulated by teaching concepts of environmental comfort in primary and secondary schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-four samples of roast and ground coffee, 14 samples of instant coffee and two samples of decaffeinated instant coffee were collected in markets and supermarkets in the city of Campinas, Brazil, and analysed for ochratoxin A using immunoaffinity columns for clean-up and HPL C with fluorescence detection for quantification. The limit of detection was 0.2ng/g ochratoxin A. Twenty-three samples of ground and roast coffee were found to be contaminated with the toxin at levels ranging between 0.3 and 6.5ng/g. The average concentration in all 34 samples was 0.9ng/g. All samples of instant coffee contained ochratoxin A at levels ranging from 0.5 to 5.1ng/g, with an average figure of 2.2ng/g. Roast and ground coffee is the type of coffee most used by Brazilians for the preparation of the beverage. Considering that an average Brazilian adult takes five cups of coffee per day, which corresponds to 30g of roast and ground coffee, the probable daily intake of ochratoxin A by a 70kg adult would be 0.4ng/kg bw, which is far below the current Provisional Tolerable Daily Intake of 14ng/kg bw for ochratoxin A as set by the Codex Alimentarius. To study the transfer of ochratoxin A into coffee brew, the beverage was prepared by two methods: (a) the drip method and (b) the Brazilian country style method. No significant difference was observed between the two methods in terms of extraction of the toxin using five contaminated samples containing between 0.8 and 6.5ng/g ochratoxin A. The drip method extracted 86 ± 15% and the Brazilian country style 74 ± 20 % of the ochratoxin A initially present in the roast and ground coffee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE To show the results of operational research techniques applied to the cataract service of a public university hospital in Brazil. METHODS using a heuristic approach for operational research, a study was designed to evaluate, develop solutions, and validate the implemented modifications to optimize service performance. RESULTS Following implementation of the solutions and modifications, 24.9% more patients were examined and 39.9% more cataract surgery was performed than during a similar period prior to implementation. Solutions were provided by group discussion among service professionals and based on common sense, possibility of prompt implementation, and the use of available resources and fixed costs. CONCLUSION The results of this study show the importance of operational research to a public cataract service wishing to improve its performance with simple and efficient solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]