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Background: Globally, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a high-priority opportunistic pathogen which displays several intrinsic and acquired antimicrobial resistance (AMR) mechanisms, leading to challenging treatments and mortality of patients. Moreover, its wide virulence arsenal, particularly the type III secretion system (T3SS) exoU+ virulotype, plays a crucial role in pathogenicity and poor outcome of infections. In depth insights into the molecular epidemiology of P. aeruginosa, especially the prevalence of high-risk clones (HRCs), are crucial for the comprehension of virulence and AMR features and their dissemination among distinct strains. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of HRCs and non-HRCs among Brazilian isolates of P. aeruginosa. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on studies published between 2011 and 2023, focusing on the prevalence of P. aeruginosa clones determined by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) in Brazil. Data were extracted from retrospective cross-sectional and case-control studies, encompassing clinical and non-clinical samples. The analysis included calculating the prevalence rates of various sequence types (STs) and assessing the regional variability in the distribution of HRCs and non-HRCs. Results: A total of 872 samples were analyzed within all studies, of which 298 (34.17%) were MLST typed, identifying 78 unique STs. HRCs accounted for 48.90% of the MLST-typed isolates, with ST277 being the most prevalent (100/298—33.55%), followed by ST244 (29/298—9.73%), ST235 (13/298—4.36%), ST111 (2/298—0.67%), and ST357 (2/298—0.67%). Significant regional variability was observed, with the Southeast region showing a high prevalence of ST277, while the North region shows a high prevalence of MLST-typed samples and HRCs. Conclusions: Finally, this systematic review and meta-analysis highlight the role of P. aeruginosa clones in critical issue of AMR in P. aeruginosa in Brazil and the need of integration of comprehensive data from individual studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing efficient energy conservation and strategies is relevant in the context of climate change and rising energy demands. The objective of this study is to model and predict the electrical power consumption patterns in Brazilian households, considering the thresholds for energy use. Our methodology utilizes advanced machine learning methods, such as agglomerative hierarchical clustering, k-means clustering, and self-organizing maps, to identify such patterns. Gradient boosting, chosen for its robustness and accuracy, is used as a benchmark to evaluate the performance of these methods. Our methodology reveals consumption patterns from the perspectives of both users and energy providers, assessing the corresponding effectiveness according to stakeholder needs. Consequently, the methodology provides a comprehensive empirical framework that supports strategic decision making in the management of energy consumption. Our findings demonstrate that k-means clustering outperforms other methods, offering a more precise classification of consumption patterns. This finding aids in the development of targeted energy policies and enhances resource management strategies. The present research shows the applicability of advanced analytical methods in specific contexts, showing their potential to shape future energy policies and practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until early 2006, in Brazil, the focus used to be on oil and gas exploration/exploitation of post-salt carbonates. This changed when the industry announced the existence of large fields in pre-salt layers across the South Atlantic Ocean from nearshore zones up to almost 350 [km] from the shore. With the discovery of pre-salt hydrocarbons reservoirs, new challenges appeared. One of the main challenges is the necessity to optimize the drilling processes due to their high operational costs. Drilling costs are considerably high, which leads the oil and gas industry to search for innovative and entrepreneurial methods. The coupling of the mechanical specific energy (MSE) and the rate of penetration (ROP) is a method that allows for the identification of ideal conditions to efficiently enhance the drilling process. In addition, the performance of the drilling process can be estimated through pre-operational tests, which consist in continuously testing the applied drilling mechanic parameters, such as the weight-on-bit (WOB) and drill string rotary speed (RPM), looking for optimum sets that would ultimately provide the most desirable ROP. Thus, the goal of this research was to analyze field data from pre-salt layer operations, using a multi-objective optimization based on the play-back methodology for pre-operational drilling tests, through the ideal combination of the highest ROP and the lowest MSE. The results showed that the new concept of pre-operational tests based on the MSE proved to be effective in the drilling process optimization. The combination of the highest ROP and the lowest MSE allows for a high-performance drilling process. For WOB intervals of 5 and 7 [klb], a good fit of the parameters was obtained. Through the parameters obtained from pre-operational tests, the eventual cost-saving and time-saving values could be estimated, respectively, ranging from USD 1,056,180 to 1,151,898 and 19.50 to 21.27 [h], respectively. In addition, the results of this research can be applied to the exploration of other natural resources, such as natural hydrogen and geothermal sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have investigated the long term variability of surface solar radiation (SSR) around the world. However, the large disparity in the availability of observational data between developed and least developed/developing countries leads to an underrepresentation of studies on SSR changes in the latter. This is especially true for South America, where few observational studies have investigated the SSR decadal trends, and usually only at a local or regional scale. In this study we use data from 34 stations distributed throughout all the regions of Brazil to present the decadal SSR decadal trends in the first two decades of the 21st century and investigate their associated causes. The stations were grouped into 8 composites according to their proximity. Our results show that in the North and Northeast Brazil a strong dimming occurred, with significant contributions from increasing atmospheric absorption, most likely due to anthropogenic emissions, and increasing cloud cover. In the Southeast and Midwest regions of Brazil near-zero trends resulted from competing effects of clear-sky processes and strong negative trends in cloud cover. In the South part of the Amazon and in Southern Brazil a statistically insignificant brightening was observed, with significant contribution from decreasing biomass burning emissions in the former and competing minor contributions in the latter. These results can contribute to deepen the knowledge and understanding of SSR decadal trends and their causes in South America, reducing the underrepresentation of this continent when compared to regions like Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants led to subsequent waves of COVID-19 worldwide. In many countries, the second wave of COVID-19 was marked by record deaths, raising the concern that variants associated with that wave might be more deadly. Our aim was to compare outcomes of critically-ill patients of the first two waves of COVID-19. Methods: This retrospective cohort included critically-ill patients admitted between March-June 2020 and April-July 2021 in the largest academic hospital in Brazil, which has free-access universal health care system. We compared admission characteristics and hospital outcomes. The main outcome was 60‐day survival and we built multivariable Cox model based on a conceptual causal diagram in the format of directed acyclic graph (DAG). Results: We included 1583 patients (1315 in the first and 268 in the second wave). Patients in the second wave were younger, had lower severity scores, used prone and non-invasive ventilatory support more often, and fewer patients required mechanical ventilation (70% vs 80%, p<0.001), vasopressors (60 vs 74%, p<0.001), and dialysis (22% vs 37%, p<0.001). Survival was higher in the second wave (HR 0.61, 95%CI 0.50–0.76). In the multivariable model, admission during the second wave, adjusted for age, SAPS3 and vaccination, was not associated with survival (aHR 0.85, 95%CI 0.65–1.12). Conclusions: In this cohort study, patients with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU in the second wave were younger and had better prognostic scores. Adjusted survival was similar in the two waves, contrasting with record number of hospitalizations, daily deaths and health system collapse seen across the country in the second wave. Our findings suggest that the combination of the burden of severe cases and factors such as resource allocation and health disparities may have had an impact in the excess mortality found in many countries in the second wave. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We used 46 individuals of the critically endangered Brazilian Merganser, currently endemic to the Cerrado biome in Brazil, to understand genetic diversity and the genealogical relationships of the captive population. By characterizing 425 genomic variants in these captive specimens, our study unveiled a significant level of inbreeding, with approximately 70% of the captive birds tracing their lineage back to the founders from just two localities. Leveraging the identified DNA variants, we also identified less inbred individuals suitable for the potential future reintroduction into the wild. The Brazilian Merganser (Mergus octosetaceus) is one of the rarest birds in South America, and it is a critically endangered Anatidae species with an estimated population of less than 250 adult individuals in the Brazilian Cerrado. A captive population was established a few years ago at Zooparque Itatiba (São Paulo state) where 46 individuals were kept, and the founding population (progenitors derived from nature) was composed of 19 of the ex situ birds, derived from the four remaining localities with wild populations in Brazil. To characterize the genetic diversity and the genealogical relationships of the captive population, it is essential to conduct appropriate ex situ management and to assist future reintroduction projects. Thus, we have identified 425 SNPs by massively parallel sequencing of ddRAD libraries that allowed us to genotype individuals of the captive population. We observed a close relatedness between 70% of the captive population and founding individuals of Jalapão and Alto Paranaiba localities, indicating the need for supplementation with individuals from other areas of Canastra and Veadeiros. Even though many captives present a high level of inbreeding, we have identified some individuals with a high genetic value (less inbred) that can be selected for the breeding program to generate individuals for a future pilot reintroduction project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep problems are common in children and adolescents, particularly those with Neurodevelopmental Disorders. With the changes in daily habits resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, we have analyzed sleep characteristics, during social isolation, in Brazilian children and adolescents aged between 4 and 12 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder (N = 267), Down Syndrome (N = 74), and typical development (N = 312). The ASD group presented with worse indicators of sleep habits in the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ-BR) and fell asleep later during the pandemic. The entire group started fall asleep and waking up later during the pandemic - as well as waking up more often during the night. These results may contribute to parental guidance and sleep habit-related interventions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite with a worldwide distribution. Toxoplasma gondii infections are of great concern for public health, and their impact is usually most severe in pregnant women and their foetuses, and in immunocompromised individuals. Displaying considerable genetic diversity, T. gondii strains differ widely according to geographical location, with archetypal strains predominantly found in the Northern Hemisphere and non-archetypal (atypical) strains, with highly diverse genotypes, found mainly in South America. In this review, we present an overview of the identification and distribution of non-archetypal strains of T. gondii. Special attention is paid to the strains that have been isolated in Brazil, their interaction with the host immunological response, and their impact on disease outcomes. The genetic differences among the strains are pivotal to the distinct immunological responses that they elicit. These differences arise from polymorphisms of key proteins released by the parasite, which represent important virulence factors. Infection with divergent non-archetypal strains can lead to unusual manifestations of the disease, even in immunocompetent individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brazilian population grew approximately 9% from 2006 to 2016, and the number of deaths caused by air pollution increased by 14% in Brazil in the same period. Facing the lack of studies on air quality in the Metropolitan Area of Belo Horizonte (MABH)—the third most populous Brazilian metropolitan area—this study aimed to investigate the air quality and the trends of air pollutant concentrations in the MABH between 1995 and 2022, using data from the air quality monitoring network. The methodology consisted of checking MABHs air quality trends following the WHO air quality guidelines. The Mann–Kendall test was used to check statistically for the possibility of tendencies. The results showed a trend of stability in the concentrations of air pollutants in the MABH without any trend of improvement or worsening. However, the time series of the MABH exposed the challenge of ensuring better air quality that protects human health. Furthermore, the results reinforced the importance of focusing on pollutant sources and exposed the need for improvements in air quality management. Thus, it is essential to reverse the current dismantling scenario of the public environmental agencies in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Decades after their first commercial release, many theoretical assumptions are still taken for granted in the deployment of genetically modified (GM) crops. Theoretically, in the case of maize, active transcription of the cry1Ab transgene would result in dose-dependent production of the insecticidal Cry1Ab protein, which would in turn induce dose-dependent mortality on lepidopteran pests. We produced data to realistically approach this question by using a model that includes two genetic background contexts from two geographical provenances in Brazil and South Africa, and two lepidopteran pests (Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera littoralis). However, in this study, the effect of insect herbivory was superimposed to investigate possible stress-induced effects in transgene expression at three levels: mRNA, protein and bioactivity. Results: Overall, we found that herbivore damage by H. armigera was reflected only at the translational level, with a higher level of Cry1Ab protein measured in the Brazilian crosses under herbivore stress. On the other hand, compared to non-stress growing conditions, the herbivore damage by S. littoralis was not directly reflected in mRNA, protein or bioactivity in the South African crosses. Conclusions: The differences between South African and Brazilian genetic backgrounds, and between the stressor effect of the two herbivores used, highlight the complexity of transgene expression at the agroecological level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has been demonstrated in various animal species; those recognized as potential zoonotic reservoirs pose a considerable risk to public health. In Brazil, HEV-3 is the only genotype identified in humans and swine nationwide, in a colony-breeding cynomolgus monkey and, recently, in bovines and capybara. There is no information regarding HEV exposure in the equine population in Brazil. This study aimed to investigate anti-HEV antibodies and viral RNA in serum samples from horses slaughtered for meat export and those bred for sport/reproduction purposes. We used a commercially available ELISA kit modified to detect species-specific anti-HEV, using an anti-horse IgG-peroxidase conjugate and evaluating different cutoff formulas and assay precision. Serum samples (n = 257) were tested for anti-HEV IgG and HEV RNA by nested RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. The overall anti-HEV seroprevalence was 26.5% (68/257) without the detection of HEV RNA. Most municipalities (53.3%) and farms (58.8%) had positive horses. Animals slaughtered for human consumption had higher risk of HEV exposure (45.5%) than those bred for sports or reproduction (6.4%) (p < 0.0001). The statistical analysis revealed sex and breeding system as possible risk-associated factors. The first serological evidence of HEV circulation in Brazilian equines reinforces the need for the surveillance of HEV host expansion in a one-health approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a model to identify the relationship between ethical leadership in LTCs and caregivers' customer orientation, and its influence on satisfaction with the service, satisfaction with life, and the quality of the interaction between caregivers and seniors.Sampling: We present a matched sample of 277 caregivers and 277 elderly Brazilians, workers and seniors' in LTCs in Brazil. The minimum sample size was 222, determined using G-Power software version 3.1.9.2, based on the desired statistical power parameters and the number of predictors. Two structured questionnaires were developed, one for caregivers and the other for the elderly. 69 LTCs were contacted and 29 participated in the survey (10 nonprofit, 34.48%). Data were treated statistically using SEM modelling.Results: We identified a positive influence of ethical leadership on caregivers' attitudes, favoring their orientation towards the seniors'. A positive relationship between customer-oriented caregivers and customer satisfaction, life satisfaction, and the quality of the senior's interaction. A customer-oriented caregiver exerts a mediating effect between ethical leadership and the seniors' related outcomes, making ethical leadership beneficial to seniors and their family members.Conclusion: Ethical leadership favors successful management of LTCs, increasing customer orientation, and provides clues to establish a better causality and a chain of effects between leadership and senior-related outcomes. Therefore, LTCs may be the appropriate outlet for the role of ethics in leadership.Practical Implications: This study provides managers with an understanding of the effects of ethical leadership in the context of LTCs, for both caregivers and seniors. The powerful effects of ethical leadership can be a stimulus to increase the role of ethics in LTCs, improving the quality of care, the well-being of the seniors, and, therefore, the human and financial performance of these institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the widespread usage of the anchoring technique in geotechnical projects in Brazil, mainly in underground works and retaining walls, limited research has been carried out on the determination of load capacity in anchors. Ground anchored walls in Brazil are often dimensioned by methodologies that are not satisfactorily adapted to the reality of the national soil. In this context, this work proposes a simplified computational methodology for forecasting the load capacity of anchors in geotechnical projects. To this end, a fuzzy model is proposed using specific selected characteristics of the soils and geometry of tieback wall systems, whose measurements are easier to be obtained when compared with the load capacity measurement itself. For validation, calibration, and application of the model, the results of 40 performance tests (load tests) were used. Thirty-two samples were used to train the algorithm whereas eight were used to test the model. The results obtained using the proposed approach were close to the extrapolated values of the performance tests according to the existing empirical method, showing that the model is a viable alternative for the design of anchors. Finally, the methodology presented in this work seems to be a first step for the prediction of the anchor bearing capacity and therefore it will certainly benefit from the addition of new test databases of different locations around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Edwardsiellosis is a disease caused by bacteria of the genus Edwardsiella, like Edwardsiella tarda, which mainly affects fish. In Brazil, this bacterium has been found in many tambaquis since 2014; however, an investigation into how this fish is affected and the potential implications of this has never been conducted. After experimental infection, we found that tambaqui seem clinically healthy; however, their internal organs were replete with histological lesions called granulomas. The bacteria found could also be grouped into three distinct genetic groups and had no reduced susceptibility to florfenicol, norfloxacin, neomycin, erythromycin, or oxytetracycline. This study raises awareness of the occurrence of E. tarda causing subclinical histological lesions in tambaqui, a highly important fish for the Brazilian aquaculture. Edwardsiella tarda is a crucial pathogenic bacterium in tropical aquaculture. This bacterium was recently isolated from tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum), a commercially important fish species in Brazil. This study assessed the antimicrobial susceptibility, pathogenicity, and genetic diversity of the tambaqui-derived E. tarda isolates. Fourteen bacterial isolates isolated from tambaqui were identified as E. tarda by using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry and dnaJ gene sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were conducted against seven drugs using the disc diffusion assay. The pathogenicity test conducted by intraperitoneal injection of 2.4 × 107 colony-forming units (CFU) fish−1 of E. tarda (ED38-17) into tambaqui juveniles eventually revealed that neither clinical signs nor death were present. However, splenomegaly and whitish areas in the spleen and kidneys were observed. The histological investigation also revealed granulomatous splenitis, nephritis, and hepatitis occurring internally. Repetitive extragenic palindromic-PCR fingerprinting separated the 14 isolates into three genetic groups. The antibiogram revealed that all E. tarda isolates were wild-type (WT) to florfenicol (FLO), norfloxacin (NOR), neomycin (NEO), erythromycin (ERY), and oxytetracycline (OXY); however, some were non-wild-type to sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (7.1%) and amoxicillin (21.4%). Therefore, through experimental infection, E. tarda ED38-17 could induce pathogenic effects in C. macropomum. Additionally, three distinct genetic types were found, and the E. tarda isolates were WT to FLO, NOR, NEO, ERY, and OXY. These findings raise awareness of a bacteria causing unseen lesions, a pathogen that will potentially impact tambaqui aquaculture in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preferable N source for tropical grasses and its effects on the nutritional status are still matters of priority investigation. This study aimed to explore the effects of N sources and N deprivation on growth and uptake of elements in a newly-released ruzigrass cultivar, BRS Integra. Plants were grown under controlled conditions in vermiculite and were supplied with nutrient solution containing either NH4+, NH4++NO3-, NO3- or no N added in solution making. Plant biomass, chlorophyll content, transpiration, N status, and levels of selected elements were evaluated. NH4+ improved biomass production and aboveground N contents. Other elements exhibited high (N, K and Na), medium (Mn), low (Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mg, Ni and Zn) or non-detected (Al and Fe) translocation. Cd was included in the study because of its hazardous concentrations in agricultural soils in Brazil and its influence on N uptake and translocation in the genus Urochloa. All N sources increased the uptake of whole plant Cu and K and Al, and root Fe and Mg. Other favorable relations prevailed in the roots, specifically of NO3- on Ca and Ni, NH4+ and NH4++NO3- on Cr, and NH4+ on Cd. Removal of N supply caused increases on Mn and Na aboveground and Zn in roots. Overall, the more evident N source-induced uptakes were, in order of decrease, of NO3- on Ca, NH4++NO3- on Ni, and NH4+ on Cr, Cu and Mn. It is concluded that NH4+ is more efficient for fertilizing ruzigrass by improving growth and N uptake compared to NH4++NO3- or NO3-. In addition, the diverse effects of varying N sources on the uptake of 12 elements indicate such interactions should be taken into account to further improve fertilizer formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mixed-species groups (MSGs), individuals from different species may locate and communicate about the presence of predators and prey quickly and accurately but may compete for food and favourable positions in the flock. Thus, foraging behaviour is likely to change when individuals participate in MSGs compared with single-species groups (SSGs). In a highly seasonal tropical environment, the foraging behaviour of omnivorous birds may also vary with fluctuations in food availability, weather, and breeding conditions. Here, we observed the foraging behaviour (food item consumed and foraging substrate) of an insectivorous-granivorous songbird, the Coal-crested finch (Charitospiza eucosma), in a savanna in central Brazil, while simultaneously sampling the grass seed production. Birds were more likely to consume grass seeds and forage on lower vertical strata (i.e., ground or herbaceous layers) in MSGs than in other social contexts (SSGs, pair or alone), suggesting they are facing interference competition from other species in MSGs or obtaining antipredator benefits in MSGs that enable them to explore preferred food resources in microhabitats more exposed to predators. As expected, Coal-crested finches were more likely to feed on grass seeds and forage on lower vertical strata when grass seed production is abundant, suggesting that they switch their diet according to the availability of their main food items: grass seeds and invertebrates. Weather and breeding seasonalities had small effects on foraging behaviour. Our results show that MSGs may have a major role in the foraging behaviour of omnivorous birds even considering the seasonal mismatching of their main food items. We studied the foraging behaviour of an insectivorous-granivorous songbird in a savanna in central Brazil. Coal-crested finches forage more on grass seeds and lower vertical strata in mixed-species groups than in single-species groups. Birds forage more on grass seeds and lower vertical strata during the circannual peak in grass seeds production. Foraging behaviour was weakly affected by weather and breeding seasonalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes root canal treatment through cone beam computed tomography and magnification through a surgical microscope of C-shaped mandibular second premolars in the same patient. The mandibular left second premolar with Sert and Bayirli type XV classification was treated for symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and apical periodontitis. The mandibular right second premolar with Vertucci type V classification was re-treated because of a deficient previous root canal treatment, which also involved buccal canal transportation, furcal perforation and two separated instruments in the lingual canal besides symptomatic apical periodontitis. During the root canal re-treatment, buccal canal transportation and furcal perforation were sealed with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA-Angelus, Londrina, PR, Brazil), separated instruments were removed and a better obturation was achieved. In the 6-month follow-up the patient reported no symptoms, the radiographs of both teeth showed no apical radiolucencies and the percussion tests were negative. For this case, cone beam computed tomography and magnification were essential to identify this unusual root canal morphology, allowing successful endodontic treatment to be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to heavy metals in mining zones is a significant threat, which can affect ecosystem services and contribute to the decline of wild bat populations. The present study investigated the impacts caused by mining on two bat species in central Brazil, the nectarivorous Glossophaga soricina and the frugivorous Carollia perspicillata. The bats were collected from a nickel-mining zone (treatment) and a protected area (control). The leukocyte profile of each species was compiled and genotoxicity (comet assay) and mutagenicity (micronucleus test) were determined using the appropriate procedures. Glossophaga soricina presented significantly higher frequencies of eosinophils and monocytes in the mining zone in comparison with the protected area, whereas C. perspicillata presented higher frequencies of lymphocytes in the mining zone, but significantly lower frequencies of monocytes. Concomitantly, G. soricina also presented a higher frequency of DNA damage, although no variation was found in this parameter in C. perspicillata when comparing environments. We also found no significant differences between populations in terms of the frequency of micronuclei and other nuclear abnormalities. Overall, the results of the study indicate that bats are susceptible to immunological disorders and DNA damage in mining zones, with the nectarivorous G. soricina appearing to be relatively more susceptible and thus a potentially effective bioindicator of the impact of contamination in these environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to trace the research history of diseases and pests in rubber tree and explore the potential for their natural control, a bibliometric analysis was conducted based on relevant documents retrieved from the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science (WoS) core collection SCI-E database. VOSviewer software was utilized to analyze the research distribution, scientific collaboration, knowledge structure, and research frontiers. The results show that annual publications on the diseases and pests of rubber tree have increased rapidly after 2005 after a long period of emergence and fluctuation. A total of 624 relevant publications from 51 countries/regions were identified. China was the most productive country with 152 documents, most of which were related to Colletotrichum leaf disease, powdery mildew, and other emerging diseases of rubber tree. France and Brazil produced rich research to tackle South American leaf blight, and have established a close collaborative relationship. Based on the analysis of themes and trend topics, pathogenicity mechanisms of fungal pathogens and plant defense mechanisms are currently hot topics. By further looking into the research, the defense-related genes of rubber tree and antagonistic mechanisms behind candidate biocontrol agents reveal great potential in developing natural control strategies. This study provides a useful reference about the progress and evolution of research into diseases and pests in rubber tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus and a new species of Rhyncaphytoptinae (Acari: Eriophyoidea: Diptilomiopidae) and two new species of Diptilomiopinae (Acari: Eriophyoidea: Diptilomiopidae) from Pampa biome, Brazil, are described and illustrated: Parahoderusgen. nov. and Parahoderus brasilaesp. nov. on Celtis brasiliensis (Gardner) Planch. (Cannabaceae), Diptilostatus lithraeaesp. nov. on Lithraea molleoides (Vell.) Engl. (Anacardiaceae) and Vimola multinerviaesp. nov. on Ludwigia multinervia (Hook. et Arn.) Ramamoorthy (Onagraceae). Updated keys for species of the genera Diptilostatus and Vimola are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid and accurate evaluation of oil and gas assets, specifically for new development projects, poses a significant challenge due to the various project types, limited data availability, brief periods for assessment and decision making, and constraints arising from varying contractual and taxation conditions, political stability, and societal factors. This study leverages the grading standards of the evaluation index system for new oil and gas field development projects, along with relevant mathematical theories and methods for project evaluation and optimization. We developed an asset evaluation approach for new oil and gas projects by analyzing the assets of six new oil and gas field development projects in Brazil. This analysis resulted in the grading and ranking of new projects, and we tested and demonstrated four asset optimization techniques. After a comparative analysis with conventional evaluation results, we established an oil and gas project asset optimization approach centered on the cloud model comprehensive evaluation and linear weighted ranking, exhibiting Kendall's tau coefficient of 0.8667 with conventional methods. The findings suggest that the combination of the cloud model comprehensive evaluation method with the linear weighted ranking method can facilitate asset optimization for oil and gas field development projects, meeting the practical needs for fast selection among various new projects. Furthermore, this research offers a technical and theoretical foundation for rapid evaluation and decision making regarding new assets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correctional workers form a high-priority group for tuberculosis control measures because of their high exposure and risk. This cross-sectional study conducted in April and May 2022 included 71 criminal police officers from the State Penitentiary of Francisco Beltrão-PR, Brazil. Their sociodemographic and laboratory data were collected. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) was assessed using a QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus in-tube test kit. Binary logistic regression was applied to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the LTBI predictors. The prevalence of LTBI was 22.6% (95% CI, 12.8–32.2%). Factors associated with LTBI were age > 43 years (OR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.04–0.70; p < 0.014) and the use of medications (OR, 5.13; 95% CI, 1.40–18.87; p < 0.014). The prevalence was close to that estimated worldwide for LTBI in correctional workers, reinforcing the need for occupational health control measures consisting of regular screening and treatment of positive cases of latent infection among correctional workers to reduce the risk of illness and spread of infection in the penitentiary system and community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extent of the potassium (K) limitation of forest productivity is probably more widespread than previously thought, and K limitation could influence the response of forests to future global changes. To understand the effects of K limitation on forest primary production, we have developed the first ecophysiological model simulating the K cycle and its interactions with the carbon (C) and water cycles. We focused on the limitation of the gross primary productivity (GPP) by K availability in tropical eucalypt plantations in Brazil. We used results from stand-scale fertilisation experiments as well as C flux measurements in two tropical eucalypt plantations to parameterise the model. The model was parameterised for fertilised conditions and then used to test for the effects of contrasting additions of K fertiliser. Simulations showed that K deficiency limits GPP by more than 50 % during a 6-year rotation, a value in agreement with estimations in K-limited eucalypt stands. Simulations showed a decrease of modelled canopy transpiration of around 50 % and a decrease in modelled water-use efficiency WUE GPP of 10 %. Through a sensitivity analysis, we used the model to identify the most critical processes to consider when studying K limitation of GPP. The inputs of K to the stands, such as the atmospheric deposition and weathering fluxes, and the regulation of the cycle of K within the ecosystem were critical for the response of the system to K deficiency. Litter leaching processes were of lower importance, since residence time of K in litter was low. The new forest K-cycle model developed in the present study includes multiple K processes interacting with the carbon and water cycles, and strong feedbacks on GPP were outlined. This is a first step in identifying the source or sink limitation of forest growth by K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian clear cell carcinomas (OCCCs) are rare, aggressive and chemoresistant tumors. Geographical and ethnic differences in the incidence of OCCC have been reported with a higher incidence in Asiatic countries. There is a paucity of information regarding OCCC in Latin America (LA) and other countries. Methods: Here, we characterized two cohorts of 33 patients with OCCC from LA (24 from Brazil and 9 from Costa Rica) and a cohort of 27 patients from Spain. Genomic analysis was performed for 26 OCCC using the OncoScan platform. Tumors were classified according to their genomic landscapes into subgroups. Clinical parameters were related to the frequency of genomic aberrations. Results: The median overall survival (OS) was not significantly different between the cohorts. Genomic landscapes were characterized by different homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) levels. No difference in the distribution of genomic landscapes profiles was detected between patients from the different cohorts. OCCCs with MYC-amplified tumors harboring a concomitant loss of a region in chromosome 13q12-q13 that includes the BRCA2 gene had the longest OS. In contrast, patients carrying a high number (> 30) of total copy number (CN) aberrations with no concomitant alterations in MYC and BRCA2 genes presented the shortest OS. Furthermore, amplification of the ASH1L gene was also associated with a shorter OS. Initial-stage OCCCs with early progression were characterized by gains in the JNK1 and MKL1 genes. Conclusions: Our results provide new data from understudied OCCC populations and reveal new potential markers for OCCCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the relationships between plant diversity and the environment is an important step towards conservation of species and ecosystems. In this study, we hypothesize that community species richness decreases and species composition change along the elevation gradient, with a greater contribution of species turnover than nestedness to beta diversity. We surveyed plant species in 300 plots (1 m × 1 m) in four elevational bands (2100 m, 2300 m, 2500 m, and 2700 m) in the Caparaó National Park, Southeastern Brazil. The samples presented a great number of species (97 spp., 59 genera, 27 families), however, 74% of the species were considered rare with their relative abundance being <1%. Among the four bands along the gradient, we detected two distinct communities with few species in common. The transition between the two communities occurred at 2500 m, and this elevation band also had the highest species richness in total. A non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) showed floristic differences between the bands even though they had similar richness. In 89% of the plot pairs, using pairwise comparison of species composition, only half of the species that occurred in one did occur in the other plot. The dissimilarity among the plots and elevational band reflects a significant contribution of spatial species turnover to the species richness and beta diversity on the Caparaó mountain. Beta diversity increased with spatial scale (from plot to elevational-band). The dissimilarity (βSOR=0.907) in the area was due almost exclusively to spatial species turnover (βSIM=0.879), with very low contribution of species nestedness (βSNE=0.028). Our research showed that species richness does not decrease with elevation in the study area, but the floristic composition changes. The clear distinction of species along the gradient show that spatial species turnover is the major diversity-generating process in the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, much attention has been paid to the use of biopolymers as food packaging materials due to their important characteristics and properties. These include non-toxicity, ease of availability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, indicating their potential as an alternative to conventional plastic packaging that has long been under environmental scrutiny. Given the current focus on sustainable development, it is imperative to develop studies on biopolymers as eco-friendly and sustainable food packaging materials. Therefore, the aim of this review is to explore trends and characteristics of biopolymer-based biodegradable films for food packaging, analyze the contribution of various journals and cooperation between countries, highlight the most influential authors and articles, and provide an overview of the social, environmental, and economic aspects of biodegradable films for food packaging. To achieve this goal, a bibliometric analysis and systematic review based on the PRISMA method were conducted. Relevant articles were carefully selected from the Scopus database. A bibliometric analysis was also conducted to discuss holistically, comprehensively, and objectively biodegradable films for food packaging. An increasing interest was found in this study, especially in the last 3 years with Brazil and China leading the number of papers on biodegradable films for food packaging, which were responsible for 20.4% and 12.5% of the published papers, respectively. The results of the keyword analysis based on the period revealed that the addition of bioactive compounds into packaging films is very promising because it can increase the quality and safety of packaged food. These results reveal that biodegradable films demonstrate a positive and promising trend as food packaging materials that are environmentally friendly and promote sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Comunicar (English Edition) is the property of Oxbridge Publishing House and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Zika virus (ZIKV) caused an outbreak in Brazil, in 2015, being associated to microcephaly. ZIKV has a strong neurotropism leading to death of infected cells in different brain regions, including the hippocampus, a major site for neurogenesis. The neuronal populations of the brain are affected differently by ZIKV from Asian and African ancestral lineages. However, it remains to be investigated whether subtle variations in the ZIKV genome can impact hippocampus infection dynamics and host response. Objective: This study evaluated how two Brazilian ZIKV isolates, PE243 and SPH2015, that differ in two specific missense amino acid substitutions, one in the NS1 protein and the other in the NS4A protein, affect the hippocampal phenotype and transcriptome. Methods: Organotypic hippocampal cultures (OHC) from infant Wistar rats were infected with PE243 or SPH2015 and analyzed in time series using immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, RNA-Seq and RT-qPCR. Results: Unique patterns of infection and changes in neuronal density in the OHC were observed for PE243 and SPH2015 between 8 and 48 h post infection (p.i.). Phenotypic analysis of microglia indicated that SPH2015 has a greater capacity for immune evasion. Transcriptome analysis of OHC at 16 h p.i. disclosed 32 and 113 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to infection with PE243 and SPH2015, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis suggested that infection with SPH2015 activates mostly astrocytes rather than microglia. PE243 downregulated biological process of proliferation of brain cells and upregulated those associated with neuron death, while SPH2015 downregulated processes related to neuronal development. Both isolates downregulated cognitive and behavioral development processes. Ten genes were similarly regulated by both isolates. They are putative biomarkers of early hippocampus response to ZIKV infection. At 5, 7, and 10 days p.i., neuronal density of infected OHC remained below controls, and mature neurons of infected OHC showed an increase in the epigenetic mark H3K4me3, which is associated to a transcriptionally active state. This feature is more prominent in response to SPH2015. Conclusion: Subtle genetic diversity of the ZIKV affects the dynamics of viral dissemination in the hippocampus and host response in the early stages of infection, which may lead to different long-term effects in neuronal population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a frequent manifestation of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) with a potential risk for kidney failure and poor outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate stages III, IV, and V of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and investigate risk factors for CKD in cSLE patients. Methods: We performed a nationwide observational cohort study in 27 pediatric rheumatology centers, including medical charts of 1528 cSLE patients. Data were collected at cSLE diagnosis, during follow-up, and at last visit or death, between September 2016 and May 2019. Results: Of 1077 patients with LN, 59 (5.4%) presented with CKD, 36/59 (61%) needed dialysis, and 7/59 (11.8%) were submitted for kidney transplantation. After Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons (p < 0.0013), determinants associated with CKD were higher age at last visit, urinary biomarker abnormalities, neuropsychiatric involvement, higher scores of disease activity at last visit and damage index, and more frequent use of methylprednisolone, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab. In the regression model analysis, arterial hypertension (HR = 15.42, 95% CI = 6.12–38.83, p ≤ 0.001) and biopsy-proven proliferative nephritis (HR = 2.83, 95%CI = 1.70–4.72, p ≤ 0.001) increased the risk of CKD, while children using antimalarials had 71.0% lower CKD risk ((1.00–0.29) × 100%) than children not using them. The Kaplan–Meier comparison showed lower survival in cSLE patients with biopsy-proven proliferative nephritis (p = 0.02) and CKD (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusions: A small number of patients manifested CKD; however, frequencies of dialysis and kidney transplantation were relevant. This study reveals that patients with cSLE with hypertension, proliferative nephritis, and absence of use of antimalarials exhibited higher hazard rates of progression to CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large-scale integration into electrical systems of intermittent power-generation sources, such as wind power plants, requires greater efforts and knowledge from operators to keep these systems operating efficiently. These sources require reliable output power forecasts to set up the optimal operating point of the electrical system. In previous research, the authors developed an evolutionary approach algorithm called RCDESIGN to optimize the hyperparameters and topology of Echo State Networks (ESN), and applied the model in different time series forecasting, including wind speed. In this paper, RCDESIGN was modified in some aspects of the genetic algorithm, and now it optimizes an ESN with augmented states (ESN-AS) and has been called RCDESIGN-AS. The evolutionary algorithm allows the search for the best parameters and topology of the recurrent neural network to be performed simultaneously. In addition, RCDESIGN-AS has the important characteristic of requiring little computational effort and processing time since it is not necessary for the eigenvalues of the reservoir weight matrix to be reduced and also due to the fact that the augmented states make it possible to reduce the number of neurons in the reservoir. The method was applied for wind speed forecasting with a 24-h ahead horizon using real data of wind speed from five cities in the Northeast Region of Brazil. All results obtained with the proposed method overcame forecasting performed by the persistence method, obtaining prediction gains ranging from 60% to 80% in relation to this reference method. In some datasets, the proposed method also yielded better results than the traditional ESN, showing that RCDESIGN-AS can be a powerful tool for wind-speed forecasting and possibly for other types of time series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The city of Candiota contains a great amount of coal resources. Coal activities, including coal combustion, are major releasers of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The PAHs are considered priority air pollutants regarding their large carcinogenic potential. So, the carcinogenic risk assessment of populations living near areas with PAH sources is mandatory. This study aimed to evaluate the carcinogenic health risk of the PAH inhalation exposure of individuals living in Candiota City. A total of 158 individuals were enrolled in the study. Monitoring of PAH and meteorological parameters were carried out, and the health risk assessment was determined through the benzo(a)pyrene equivalent toxic equivalent quotient (BaP-TEQ) and the incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) estimation. The coal activity area of Candiota demonstrated an annual PAH concentration of 27.7 ng/m3, PM10 concentration of 26.3 µg/m3, SO2 concentration of 9.5 µg/m3, a BaP-TEQ value of 0.3 ng/m3, and a daily inhalation of 62.4 ng/day. The comparison among seasons showed no difference in PAH concentration and BaP-TEQ. It was observed ILCR values of 2.8 × 10–6 and 2.6 × 10–6 for estimation based on reference and real values, respectively, and these levels were above the reference limit of 10–6, indicating cancer risk. Therefore, an epidemiological survey of cancer cases in the region and its relationship with environmental exposure and air pollutants levels must be required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, the Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) methodology was applied to estimate the annual risk of Giardia and Cryptosporidium infection associated with a water treatment plant in southern Brazil. The efficiency of the treatment plant in removing protozoa and the effectiveness of the Brazilian legislation on microbiological protection were evaluated, emphasizing the relevance of implementing the QMRA in this context. Two distinct approaches were employed to estimate the mechanical removal of protozoa: The definitions provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and the model proposed by Neminski and Ongerth. Although the raw water collected had a higher concentration of Giardia cysts than Cryptosporidium oocysts, the estimated values for the annual risk of infection were significantly higher for Cryptosporidium than for Giardia. From a general perspective, the risk values of protozoa infection were either below or very near the limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO). In contrast, all the risk values of Cryptosporidium infection exceeded the threshold established by the USEPA. Ultimately, it was concluded that the implementation of the QMRA methodology should be considered by the Brazilian authorities, as the requirements and guidelines provided by the Brazilian legislation proved to be insufficient to guarantee the microbiological safety of drinking water. In this context, the QMRA application can effectively contribute to the prevention and investigation of outbreaks of waterborne disease., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Purpose: To describe the perspective of caregivers about physical therapy (PT) during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effect of social distancing on the health of children with physical disabilities., Methods: This survey research used a remote questionnaire to identify the perceptions of caregivers about the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health of children and adolescents with physical disabilities and on PT services. Data were analyzed using the frequency of responses; open-ended questions were analyzed through a hybrid approach to thematic analysis., Results: Caregivers of 47 children with cerebral palsy were included. Although most received regular PT services during the pandemic, worsened children's physical conditions and anxiety were prevalent. Caregivers believed that they lacked technical skills., Conclusions: Social distancing impacted the health of children with physical disabilities, especially their physical conditions. Identifying facilitators and barriers for PT services can be helpful in future similar scenarios.Video abstract Supplemental Digital Content available at:http://links.lww.com/PPT/A503., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy of the American Physical Therapy Association.)

Since the start of COVID-19 pandemic, the definition of normal life has changed drastically. The number of cases of this pandemic is rising everyday across the globe. In this study, we propose a compartmental model, which considers the isolation factor of Coronavirus infected individuals. The model consists of five compartments: susceptible (S), exposed (E), Infected (I), Isolated (L) and recovered (R). We have estimated the parameters of the model system and the expression of the basic reproduction number $ R_0 $ using real data set. The exact value of the basic reproduction number is computed for India, Brazil and Peru. The local and global stability analysis of disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium points is carried out. The forecasting of the pandemic is done using real data. It has been observed that to understand the pandemic the time frame has to be divided into small intervals as the parameters of the pandemic are changing with time. Within a time frame of approximately four months (i.e. from July to October 2020), the transmission rate of India has been reduced by approximately 84%. Whereas the transmission rate in Brazil and Peru has increased by 79% and 45% respectively. The sensitivity of various parameters involved in the model has been analyzed. We have presented a complete analysis to check the existence of backward bifurcation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Job autonomy, as a job resource, is expected to yield beneficial effects for employees. We examine job autonomy's relationship to burnout and propose three mediators that explain its effect. Considering the diversified workplace, we argue that how job autonomy affects burnout depends on individuals' levels of power distance orientation (PDO). Tested with a combined sample of individuals from three countries – the U.S., China, and Brazil –, we found that job autonomy is generally beneficial to reducing burnout, but that individuals with lower PDO benefit more than individuals with higher PDO. More specifically, we found that PDO moderates the relationship between job autonomy and three role stressors – role conflicts, ambiguity, and overload. In addition, our study found that people with different levels of PDO experience different processes of job autonomy – burnout relation. Post-hoc analyses suggest that each of the three job autonomy dimensions and overall job autonomy have similar influences on employee burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

to verify the effects of aerobic exercise training in circulating BDNF, VEGF165 and IGF-1 plasma levels and cognitive function in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) patients. 34 AD patients participated in the study, divided in two groups: Control Group (CG; n = 16) and Training Group (TG; n = 18 – Moderate aerobic training on the treadmill, three times a week, for 12 weeks). BDNF, VEGF165, and IGF-1 plasma levels were considered as a primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included cognitive functions and aerobic fitness. After 12 weeks, maintenance of executive functioning in the TG was found, yet no significant changes on circulating neurotrophins levels were identified. For aerobic fitness, there was an increment in TG group. Twelve weeks of aerobic training were neither effective in improving cognitive functioning significantly, nor influential on circulating neurotrophins levels in AD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is considered a promising option for the development of sustainable agroecosystems, due to its diverse agronomic and environmental benefits. In this context, the aim of this study was to carry out a bibliometric analysis on biochar research in Brazil within an agricultural context, including investigating the raw materials most employed for its production in the country. The analysis was conducted based on a search for scientific articles (peer-reviewed papers) at the Web of Science database (WoS Core Collection) from 2003 to 2020 specifically in Brazil. A performance analysis was carried out by applying a descriptive and metric approach concerning research constituents (authors, institutions, countries and keywords) and science mapping to clarify scientific collaborations and cognitive and intellectual structure patterns regarding the biochar domain in Brazilian research, using the VOSviewer software. The obtained studies were also analyzed individually to classify the different raw materials employed in biochar production. A total of 261 scientific articles met the screening criteria, indicating that the beginning of biochar publications in Brazil took place in 2003, increasing until 2015 and peaking in 2021. Institutions and authors with the highest publication contributions were the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) (Novotny E.), São Paulo University (USP) (Cerri C.) and Federal Lavras University (UFLA) (Melo L.). The United States, Spain, Australia, Germany and the Netherlands present the most collaborations on biochar research with Brazil. The biochar domain was highly associated with the following keywords: biochar, pyrogenic carbon, pyrolysis, charcoal, immobilization, black carbon, soil fertility and soil and characterization. Raw materials of plant origin were the most employed in biochar research in Brazil, with wood residues being the most studied and residues originated from the sugar-energy industry (straw, bagasse and filter cake) identified as exhibiting high potential for future studies. Poultry litter is the most promising animal waste for biochar production, while the use of biosolids can be innovative, contributing to the consolidation of biochar as an option for serious urban waste sanitary management problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mucin (MUC) family includes several genes aberrantly expressed in multiple carcinomas and mediates diverse pathways essentials for oncogenesis, in both solid and hematological malignancies. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) can have its course influenced by genetic variants, and it seems more frequent in the Amerindian population, which has been understudied. Therefore, the present work aimed to investigate the MUC family exome in Amerindian individuals from the Brazilian Amazon, in a sample containing healthy Native Americans (NAMs) and indigenous subjects with ALL, comparing the frequency of polymorphisms between these two groups. The population was composed of 64 Amerindians from the Brazilian Amazon, from 12 different isolated tribes, five of whom were diagnosed with ALL. We analyzed 16 genes from the MUC family and found a total of 1858 variants. We compared the frequency of each variant in the ALL vs. NAM group, which led to 77 variants with a significant difference and, among these, we excluded those with a low impact, resulting in 63 variants, which were distributed in nine genes, concentrated especially in MUC 19 (n = 30) and MUC 3A (n = 18). Finally, 11 new variants were found in the NAM population. This is the first work with a sample of native Americans with cancer, a population which is susceptible to ALL, but remains understudied. The MUC family seems to have an influence on the development of ALL in the Amerindian population and especially MUC19 and MUC3A are shown as possible hotspots. In addition, the 11 new variants found point to the need to have their clinical impact analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brownfield areas are important targets of exploration; however, the extensive drilling present in these areas has not fully exploited their prospective potential. The appropriate use of drill hole cores in these areas can play an important role in deep exploration. We present a case study of iron oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) Furnas Southeast deposit, located in the Carajás Mineral Province, Brazil. This deposit has disseminated chalcopyrite, bornite and gold mineralization associated with a silicic (Si), potassic (K), calcic (Na), sodic-calcic (Na-Ca) hydrothermal alteration, and intense iron metasomatism with massive magnetite (Fe) alteration. Petrophysical hand-held equipment measurements were carried out on drill core samples with the purpose of studying the potential roles that magnetic susceptibility properties can play in high-grade mineralization. The results indicate that the geological complexity of the IOCG deposit is readily reflected in the extensive variation of the measurements. The statistical analysis shows how the detailed characterization of this physical property carried out for this mineral association could effectively define and describe ore, and the magnetic susceptibility footprints of hydrothermal alteration zones. Furthermore, we were able to perform a magnetic susceptibility 3D modeling of diamagnetic, paramagnetic, and ferrimagnetic responses strictly correlated with known orebody. Thus, petrophysical analyses can form a quantitative geological criterion for ore delineation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merril] is one of the main crops produced worldwide, and on‐farm yields have increased considerably in the last decades in Brazil. We evaluated the genetic gain for agronomic, phenological, and end‐use quality traits in 29 cultivars in the South Region, and in 38 cultivars in the Midwest Region in Brazil, released from 1966 to 2011. Field trials were conducted in Macroregions 1, 2, and 4, in 2016–2017, 2017–2018, and 2018–2019 crop seasons. The best linear unbiased predictors (BLUP) of the cultivars were obtained for each trait using a linear model. The BLUPs were regressed with the year of release using linear and quadratic regression models. The rates of genetic gain for seed yield ranged from 11.98 to 15.31 kg ha–1 yr–1 (0.33 to 0.42% yr–1) in the South Region, and from 13.58 to 21.84 kg ha–1 yr–1 (0.47 to 0.77% yr–1) in the Midwest Region. New cultivars presented taller plants and more seed oil content, oil and protein yield, and lower seed weight, days to flowering, days to maturity, and seed protein content than old cultivars in the South Region, although with differences between the Macroregions. In the Midwest Region, new cultivars showed higher seed oil content, oil and protein yield, and lower bottom pod height and seed protein content than old cultivars. Our results showed that breeding programs have been efficient to improve soybean yield and other traits across the years, without yield plateaus in sight. Core Ideas: We observed positive genetic gain for seed yield in both evaluated regions.The breeding efforts over the years have changed important soybean traits.The seed yield has not reached its plateau in the South and Midwest Regions of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental and occupational risk we confront from agricultural chemicals increases as their presence in natural habitats rises to hazardous levels, building a major part of the exposome. This is of particular concern in low- and middle-income countries, such as Brazil, known as a leading producer of agricultural commodities and consumer of pesticides. As long as public policies continue to encourage the indiscriminate use of pesticides and governments continue to support this strategy instead of endorsing sustainable agricultural alternatives, the environmental burden that damages epithelial barriers will continue to grow. Chronic exposure to environmental contaminants in early life can affect crucial barrier tissue, such as skin epithelium, airways, and intestine, causing increased permeability, leaking, dysbiosis, and inflammation, with serious implications for metabolism and homeostasis. This vicious cycle of exposure to environmental factors and the consequent damage to the epithelial barrier has been associated with an increase in immune-mediated chronic inflammatory diseases. Understanding how the harmful effects of pesticides on the epithelial barrier impact cellular interactions mediated by endogenous sensors that coordinate a successful immune system represents a crucial challenge. In line with the epithelial barrier hypothesis, this narrative review reports the available evidence on the effects of pesticides on epithelial barrier integrity, dysbiosis, AhR signaling, and the consequent development of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of essential oils (obtained using hydrodistillation) and plant extracts (ethanolic, aqueous, and hexanic extractions) of 10 different plants cultivated in Brazil were tested using the diffusion agar method, with the objective of evaluating the inhibitory effect of the oils and extracts on the mycelial growth of Aspergillus westerdijkiae NRRL 3174 and A. carbonarius RC 2054 (UNRC). Of the 40 essential oils and plant extracts analyzed, oregano essential oil and plant extract, rosemary essential oil, and the clove ethanolic extract were the best choice to obtain the growth parameters (radial growth rates (mm day−1) and lag phase (h)) due the good results presented and the volume of oil/extract obtained. Comparing all the essential oils and plant extracts that were tested for growth parameters, the best results were obtained for the clove ethanolic extract for both strains assayed. These results demonstrated an outstanding potential use of some of these products in prevention of fungal contamination in food. However, further studies need to be conducted to determine the ability of these oils and extracts to inhibit or reduce ochratoxin A production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to investigate the performance of intermodal terminals located in Southeastern Brazil, verifying their efficiency levels in logistics operations of grain agricultural crop runoff, using data envelopment analysis (DEA). The results show only 25% of terminals with total and pure technical efficiency, which are able, therefore, to use their inputs efficiently, without incurring large losses. The inefficient ones only present pure technical efficiency, suggesting they are likely to present scale inefficiency of operations. The analysis of terminals has shown that a better operational productivity can be obtained in relation to the use of their structure and available resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jundiaí-Potengi Estuary (EJP) is located on the semi-arid coast of northeastern Brazil and is influenced by multiple sources of contamination. The sediment quality of EJP was assessed by using a multi-geochemical approach during the dry and wet seasons. Sediments were analyzed for concentrations of nutrients, metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, hormones (natural and synthetic), and sterols. The results were integrated by multivariate methods. The sediment was altered by the presence of contaminants from anthropogenic and natural sources. The middle and lower estuarine areas were considered more degraded in both seasons. In these regions, metals, hormones, sterols, and PAHs were found, indicating that these regions are severely affected by industrial, sanitary and aquaculture effluents, combustion of fossil fuels, and oil spills. The upstream region was contaminated by pesticides. The contamination pattern along the EJP shows the prevalence of local sources which continuously release the chemicals into the estuary. Worse conditions occurred during the rainy season, when the runoff from urban and rural areas is more intense and carries a greater load of contaminants to the EJP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academic procrastination has a significant influence on students' lives, being related to several relevant variables, such as lower self-esteem, higher levels of academic anxiety, and fear of failure. The development and adaptation of reliable instruments help to assure a more in-depth study of academic procrastination. The present research aimed to adapt and assess evidence of validity and reliability of the scores of the Academic Procrastination Scale (APS) for a Brazilian sample (N = 1241). In Study 1, an exploratory factor analysis supported the unidimensional structure of the APS (25 items). In Study 2, the one-factor structure had an adequate model fit via confirmatory factor analysis. Also, through item response theory, the APS items showed adequate discrimination, difficulty, and level of information. The scores of the APS were also significantly correlated with the scores of the Tuckman Procrastination Scale, providing evidence of convergent validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients are twice as likely to develop dementia. The study's goal was to evaluate cognitive performance and risk factors for cognitive decline in this population. Methods: Prospective observational study was conducted with 400 T2DM adults, of whom, during routine baseline and follow-up appointments, had socio-demographic, clinical, and laboratory data collected, and underwent physical examination, screening for depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionaire-9-PHQ-9), and cognitive tests: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Semantic Verbal Fluency Test, Trail Making Test A/B, and Word Memory Tests. Each cognitive test score was converted to a z-score and its average resulted in a new variable called Global Cognitive z-Score [GCS(z)]. Averages of the cognitive test scores and GCS(z) at both moments were compared by the Student's T-Test for paired samples. Multivariate binary logistic regression models were built to assess the association of GCS(z) < zero with risk factors for cognitive decline at the baseline and follow-up. Results: After exclusions, 251 patients were eligible, being 56.6% female, mean age of 61.1 (± 9.8) years, 12.6 (± 8.9) years of DM duration, and 7.6 (± 4.2) years of school education. Follow-up had 134 patients reevaluated and took place after a mean of 18.4(± 5.0) months. Eleven (14%) patients with a GCS(z) ≥ 0 at baseline turned into a GCS(z) < 0 at follow-up. There were no significant differences between the means of cognitive test scores and GCS(z) at the two evaluation moments. At the baseline, the multivariate logistic regression model identified five risk factors associated with GCS(z) < zero: age ≥ 65 years, schooling ≤ 6 years, arterial hypertension, depression symptoms, and diabetic retinopathy (DR), with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI95%) respectively: 5.46 (2.42–12.34); 12.19 (5.62–26.46); 2.55 (0.88–7.39); 3.53 (1.55–8.07) e 2.50 (1.18–5.34). At follow-up, the risk factors for GCS(z) < zero were: schooling ≤ 6 years, DM duration ≥ 10 years, depression symptoms, arterial hypertension, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), OR and CI95% respectively: 10.15 (3.68–28.01); 2.68 (0.96–7.48); 4.92 (1.77–13.70); 7.21 (1.38–35.71) e 5.76 (1.93–17.18). Conclusions: Based on our results, cognitive evaluation and follow-up should be incorporated on the routine of T2DM patients, especially for those with advanced age, low education level, prolonged DM duration, arterial hypertension, depression symptoms, CVD, and DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]