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The reinforced concrete structures degradation even before reaching useful life, is a very recurrent process in buildings, and it is necessary to execute corrective techniques to strengthen the structural elements. Therefore, it is noted that research in this field is very important to civil engineering. Consequently, the present study consisted in performing a static and dynamic analysis of a school building that presented structural flaws to identify the causes of it and propose a rehabilitation solution. Through the static analysis of the structure, performed with the CAD/TQS program, it was verified that the slabs and beams of the building were mostly executed with a thickness lower than ideal and that, in some slabs, the deflection obtained were higher than allowable. Through modal analysis, performed with Altair HyperWorks program, it was verified that the fourth, fifth and sixth vibration modes of the structure did not meet the ELS-VE, since they present natural frequencies between the critical range indicated by NBR 6118 (ABNT, 2014), thus showing the occurrence of excessive vibration. As a result, a rehabilitation solution was proposed, using steel beams, which were calculated according to the methodology of NBR 8800 (ABNT, 2008) and, verified with the aid of Altair HyperWorks program. This methodology for strengthening the concrete structure was verified with the aid of the platform Altair HyperWorks, where it was concluded that the steel beam used are able to solve the problem with the excessive deflection in the slabs without harming the displacements of the beans who support them, maintaining unaltered the natural frequencies.

This study aimed to understand the reproductive biology and migrative behavior of the largehead hairtail Trichiurus lepturus in a tropical area, specifically off Pernambuco coast, northeastern Brazil. Commercial catches from fish corrals provided samples for analysis, including measurements, weight recording, and examination of gonads to determine its maturation stage. Reproductive analyses were performed, such as sex ratio, gonado‐somatic index, and sizes at first maturity. There was a slightly higher proportion of females among the 141 largehead hairtail specimens analysed. No significant differences were observed in length distributions between males and females. However, during the winter, significant differences were observed in length distributions for grouped sexes. The species exhibited a seasonal migratory pattern, with a higher presence on the continental shelf during the winter. The study identified strategic allocation of energy in feeding activities and temporal spacing of reproductive cycles, as indicated by the sex ratio and abundance of individuals during different seasons. Fish corrals probably do not harm largehead hairtail population off the southwestern Atlantic tropical coast, with minimal capture of individuals below the size of first maturity. The insights of the study into reproductive and migration patterns contribute to future assessments and management strategies for this species and corral fisheries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Since 2021, the emergence of variants of concern (VOC) has led Brazil to experience record numbers of in COVID-19 cases and deaths. The expanded spread of the SARS-CoV-2 combined with a low vaccination rate has contributed to the emergence of new mutations that may enhance viral fitness, leading to the persistence of the disease. Due to limitations in the real-time genomic monitoring of new variants in some Brazilian states, we aimed to investigate whether genomic surveillance, coupled with epidemiological data and SARS-CoV-2 variants spatiotemporal spread in a smaller region, can reflect the pandemic progression at a national level. Our findings revealed three SARS-CoV-2 variant replacements from 2021 to early 2022, corresponding to the introduction and increase in the frequency of Gamma, Delta, and Omicron variants, as indicated by peaks of the Effective Reproductive Number (Reff). These distinct clade replacements triggered two waves of COVID-19 cases, influenced by the increasing vaccine uptake over time. Our results indicated that the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing new cases during the Delta and Omicron circulations was six and eleven times higher, respectively, than during the period when Gamma was predominant, and it was highly efficient in reducing the number of deaths. Furthermore, we demonstrated that genomic monitoring at a local level can reflect the national trends in the spread and evolution of SARS-CoV-2.

Jin-yu Shi,1,* Ting-ting Li,1,2,* Hui-ting Yang,1 Shi Zhang,2 Ran An,2 Liang Mao,2 Yang Li,2 Qian Li,2 Guang-yi Luan,2 Yan Shen,2 En-long Wang,2 Guang-hui Liu1,2 1First Clinical Medical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110847, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110032, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Guang-hui Liu, First Clinical Medical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110847, People’s Republic of China; Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 33, Beiling Street, Huanggu District, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110032, People’s Republic of China, Email guanghui04-09@163.comObjective: This study aimed to investigate the features and underlying principles of acupuncture points used in the treatment of headaches associated with blood stasis syndrome.Methods: Literature on the treatment of blood stasis headache with acupuncture and moxibustion was searched across three Chinese databases and one English database from January 1st, 2000, to January 1st, 2024. Relevant data including titles, journals, authors, keywords, interventions, main acupoints, and outcomes were extracted for further analysis.Results: A total of 112 papers with 102 complete prescriptions were analyzed. Of the 77 acupoints examined, 72 were meridian points, and 5 were extraordinary points, used 699 times in total. The top ten acupoints by frequency were Fengchi (GB20), Taiyang (EX-HN5), Baihui (GV20), Hegu (LI4), Shuaigu (GB8), Taichong (LR3), Xuehai (SP10), Touwei (ST8), Geshu (BL17), and Waiguan (TE5). Yang meridian points were used more frequently than Yin meridian points (82.8% vs 17.2%), with the Gallbladder Meridian of Foot Shaoyang being the most common. Nearly half of the acupoints (49.9%) were on the head and neck, and 23.1% on the lower limbs. Specific acupoints accounted for 53.5% of the total frequency. Fengchi (GB20) and Taiyang (EX-HN5) showed the highest correlation. Association rule mining highlighted combinations like Fengchi (GB20) with Taiyang (EX-HN5) and Baihui (GV20). Cluster analysis yielded five clusters.Conclusion: The study provides insights into selecting effective acupoints and combinations for clinical acupuncture practice and experimental studies in treating blood stasis headaches. Acupoints like Fengchi (GB20), Taiyang (EX-HN5), and Baihui (GV20) may be effective for clinical treatment, but further studies are needed to validate their efficacy.Keywords: headache, blood stasis syndrome, acupuncture, treatment rule, data mining

Abstract Intramuscular fat (IMF) and backfat thickness (BFT) are critical economic traits impacting meat quality. However, the genetic variants controlling these traits need to be better understood. To advance knowledge in this area, we integrated RNA-seq and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified in genomic and transcriptomic data to generate a linkage disequilibrium filtered panel of 553,581 variants. Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis revealed 36,916 cis-eQTLs and 14,408 trans-eQTLs. Association analysis resulted in three eQTLs associated with BFT and 24 with IMF. Functional enrichment analysis of genes regulated by these 27 eQTLs revealed noteworthy pathways that can play a fundamental role in lipid metabolism and fat deposition, such as immune response, cytoskeleton remodeling, iron transport, and phospholipid metabolism. We next used ATAC-Seq assay to identify and overlap eQTL and open chromatin regions. Six eQTLs were in regulatory regions, four in predicted insulators and possible CCCTC-binding factor DNA binding sites, one in an active enhancer region, and the last in a low signal region. Our results provided novel insights into the transcriptional regulation of IMF and BFT, unraveling putative regulatory variants.

Background The present study aimed to investigate the effects of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) after three warm-up protocols on back squat performance in trained men. Methods Fourteen resistance-trained men performed conditioning activity (CA) with high-load (HL-CA), low-load (LL-CA), or usual specific warm-up as a control (CON). HL-CA consisted of one set of three repetitions with 90% of one repetition maximum (RM); LL-CA consisted of one set of six repetitions with 45% of 1 RM performed at maximal velocity; CON involved eight repetitions with 45% of 1 RM at controlled velocity. The participant’s performance was measured using the total number of repetitions and volume load (reps × load × sets). Results There were no significant differences between warm-up for the total number of repetitions (p = 0.17) or total volume load (p = 0.15). There was no difference between conditions for the number of repetitions (main condition effect; p = 0.17); however, participants achieved a significantly higher volume load after HL-PAPE than after CON for the first set (p = 0.04). Conclusion High or low equated-load CA used as warm-up strategies did not potentiate subsequent performance enhancement in multiple-set back squat exercise performed until muscle failure in comparison with usual warm-up.

The Internet of Things and motion recognition-based healthcare rehabilitation system (IMRHRS) is an emerging innovation with the potential to enhance physicians’ rehabilitation services. This study investigated physicians’ switching behavior from conventional rehabilitation systems to IMRHRS. We developed a research model for empirical examination employing the stimulus-organism-response paradigm and integrated the constructs of Information System Success and Technology Acceptance Models for a clearer picture. We conducted this study in two tertiary hospitals in Hefei, China, collected data from 158 physicians, and examined it using Smart-PLS. We proposed quality attributes (information, service, and system quality) as external stimuli, performance attributes (perceived ease of use and usefulness) as organisms, and switching behavior as physicians’ responses. This study revealed that information, service, and system qualities significantly impacted perceived ease of use. In contrast, information and system quality have no effect on perceived usefulness. Additionally, perceived ease of use and usefulness significantly affected physicians’ switching behavior. The results of this study apply to several groups, such as researchers, government healthcare authorities, policymakers, and medical informatics firms.

Introdução: A prescrição farmacêutica é uma tendência global com potencial para promover o uso racional de medicamentos, melhorar a atenção à saúde e otimizar as habilidades dos profissionais. No Brasil, a regulamentação da prescrição farmacêutica por meio da resolução N°586/2013 do Conselho Federal de Farmácia permite aos farmacêuticos prescreverem medicamentos isentos de prescrição (MIP’s), por farmacêuticos, abrindo novas perspectivas na saúde pública. No entanto, treinamentos e manuais são essenciais para garantir uma prescrição eficaz. Objetivos: Este estudo avaliou o treinamento em transtornos autolimitados, como acne vulgar, aftas, contracepção de emergência, dismenorreia, febre, herpes labial, cefaleia, náuseas e vômitos, e queimaduras, analisando como esse treinamento influenciou o atendimento, encaminhamentos e prescrições farmacológicas e não farmacológicas. Além disso, a pesquisa buscou explorar abordagens ao paciente, superar desafios clínicos em um ambiente controlado e promover o uso racional de medicamentos. Material e Método: Para a realização do estudo, foram utilizadas simulações de atendimento farmacêutico em farmácias comunitárias, envolvendo a preparação do cenário, simulação do atendimento pelos alunos e a avaliação conjunta entre professores e acadêmicos. Resultados: Foram realizadas 17 simulações clínicas, totalizando 393 estimativas com o instrumento PSAL-BRASIL. A maioria das estimativas das habilidades clínicas do farmacêutico simulado foi positiva. No entanto, o item relacionado à “aferição dos sinais e solicitação de exames físicos e laboratoriais» obteve uma taxa de realização satisfatória de apenas 65,4%. A confiança dos participantes avaliadores aumentou após o acesso ao material e às simulações clínicas. Depoimentos anônimos coletados ao término da disciplina destacaram a contribuição das simulações de Problemas de Saúde Autolimitados para a formação dos estudantes de farmácia. Discussão e Conclusões: O uso de simulações realistas contribuiu para o desenvolvimento das competências clínicas, aumentando a capacidade de intervenção farmacêutica no manejo de Problemas de Saúde Autolimitados.

Introdução: A hanseníase é uma doença crônica infectocontagiosa de evolução lenta, tem como agente etiológico a bactéria, Mycobacterium leprae. Dado seu estigma social, tratamento longo e a tendência de ocorrência de problemas relacionados a medicamentos, o papel do farmacêutico no cuidado é recomendado e estratégico. Objetivos: Este estudo consiste em levantar as evidências científicas relativas ao cuidado farmacêutico no manejo da hanseníase, sintetizar os principais achados, descrever os serviços farmacêuticos ofertados, e analisar o impacto da provisão do cuidado farmacêutico no tratamento da hanseníase. Material e Método: Trata-se de uma revisão de escopo realizada conforme o Manual Joanna Brigss e as recomendações PRISMA, que tem como finalidade fornecer orientações para síntese de evidências. A busca por artigos foi realizada nas bases de dados eletrônicas utilizando descritores MeSH/DeCS em inglês e português. Os critérios de inclusão adotados foram artigos, teses, dissertações ou trabalhos de conclusão de curso com estudos publicados entre 2011 a 2022. Foram excluídos estudos que não tinham foco no cuidado farmacêutico e/ou manejo da hanseníase. Resultados: Foram identificados 4.207 estudos nas bases selecionadas e após etapas de análise de títulos, resumos e texto, 16 artigos foram selecionados, e apenas sete artigos selecionados tiveram análise de impacto junto aos pacientes (Gráfico 01). Os serviços clínicos e ações mais realizados pelo farmacêutico nos estudos identificados foram “educação em saúde”, “acompanhamento farmacoterapêutico”, “dispensação”, “revisão da farmacoterapia” e “gestão da condição de saúde” (Quadro 01). Observou-se que as ações de cuidado farmacêutico possuem potencial para redução de problemas relacionados a medicamentos (até 96%), melhoria da adesão (até 97%), melhoria do nível de conhecimento sobre a doença (variando de 51% para 89,6%). Discussão e Conclusões: Embora o cuidado farmacêutico tenha surgido na década de 1990, se observa uma lacuna de conhecimento nesta área tendo assim havendo baixo índice de evidências disponíveis, o que corrobora a baixa oferta de serviços farmacêuticos aos pacientes com hanseníase. Contudo foi notório a participação do farmacêutico tem impacto positivo na e na qualidade de vida do paciente e sucesso do tratamento, consequentemente nos custos envolvidos ao sistema de saúde. A adequada dispensação farmacêutica faz-se necessário para aumento do letramento em saúde dos pacientes em tratamento, de modo a receberem as informações necessárias para o tratamento e sua condição de saúde. O papel do farmacêutico torna-se fundamental para a melhora da farmacoterapia e qualidade de vida dos pacientes, principalmente no caso de doenças negligenciadas consideradas problemas de saúde pública, como a hanseníase. Dessa forma, se faz presente a necessidade de investimentos em novos estudos com essa temática, objetivando a produção de dados para subsidiar e fortalecer a atuação do farmacêutico no tratamento da hanseníase.

Objective To investigate the neural network mechanism of fear induced by cortical functional electrical stimulation with stereotactic electrodes. Methods and Results A total of 20 patients with intractable epilepsy who were diagnosed and underwent stereotactic electrode implantation in Sanbo Brain Hospital of Capital Medical University from January 2021 to June 2022 were selected. Among them, 7 patients (35%) received 75 reconstructed electrode contacts [9.66% (75/776)] to induce fear emotional response. They were mainly distributed in temporal lobe [45.33% (34/75)], insula lobe [32% (24/75)] and cingulate gyrus [13.33% (10/75)]. According to the "seed and discovery" calculation method, the occurrence probability of evoked fear response electrode contacts in 9 general brain networks (auditory, left executive control, right executive control, sensorimotor, visuospatial, dorsal default mode, advanced vision, posterior salience and primary vision) was the highest in the dorsal default mode network, accounting for 84% (63/75). The whole brain functional connection values of the fear⁃inducing electrode contacts were retrieved from the neurosynth database, and the differences between the in⁃brain and out⁃brain functional connection values were calculated. It was found that the matching degree between the fear⁃inducing electrode contacts and the dorsal default mode network was the highest, followed by the posterior prominence network. Conclusions Based on stereo⁃electroencephalography (EEG), the fear response induced by cortical functional electrical stimulation was mainly related to the dorsal default mode network. The hippocampus, insula and cingulate gyrus are important network nodes of fear response. It is suggested that there is a shared neural circuit between the fear response induced by electrical stimulation and the fear experience acquired through conditioning.

Lipids are a big family of molecules with a vast number of functions in the cell membranes, within the cytoplasm, and extracellularly. Lipid droplets (LDs) are the most common storage organelles and are present in almost every tissue type in the body. They also have structural functions serving as building blocks of cellular membranes and may be precursors of other molecules such as hormones, and lipoproteins, and as messengers in signal transduction. Fatty acids (FAs), such as sterol esters and triacylglycerols, are stored in LDs and are used in β-oxidation as fuel for tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation. FA uptake and entrance in the cytoplasm are mediated by membrane receptors. After a cytoplasmic round of α- and β-oxidation, FAs are guided into the mitochondrial matrix by the L-carnitine shuttle system, where they are fully metabolized, and enter the TCA cycle. Pathogen infections may lead to impaired lipid metabolism, usage of membrane phospholipids, and LD accumulation in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Otherwise, bacterial pathogens may use lipid metabolism as a carbon source, thus altering the reactions and leading to cellular and organelles malfunctioning. This review aims to describe cellular lipid metabolism and alterations that occur upon infections.

Introdução: Na sociedade moderna, tem-se cada vez mais, a necessidade de formar enfermeiros competentes e propiciar ferramentas para a edificação de competências gerenciais. Portanto, faz-se relevante uma atuação docente que abarque aspectos profícuos de desenvolvimento dessas competências, bem como instituições de ensino que possibilitem ensejos que também as priorizem. Objetivos: Identificar os principais desafios para os estudantes de enfermagem desenvolverem competências gerenciais e as estratégias de aprendizagem segundo a ótica dos docentes de enfermagem. Métodos: Estudo exploratório de abordagem qualitativa, realizado com 12 docentes vinculados a uma Instituição de Ensino Superior pública brasileira. Os dados foram coletados em 2020 por meio da técnica de grupo focal e analisados de acordo com a análise temática indutiva. Evidencia-se que o estudo foi aprovado pelo comitê de ética em pesquisa da instituição proponente. Resultados: Os resultados mostraram que as competências mais desafiadoras são: comunicação, tomada de decisão, liderança, relacionamento interpessoal e negociação de conflitos; tais competências foram justificáveis em virtuda da imaturidade e inexperiência do aluno. Além disso, também foram ressaltados desafios relacionados ao trabalho do docente, sobretudo quanto à limitação de tempo e sobrecarga. Quanto às estratégias, os docentes evidenciaram: estimulação da iniciativa, raciocínio, empoderamento e autorresponsabilidade do aluno, metodologias ativas de ensino, incluindo simulações e prática de estágio. Conclusões: O método qualitativo permitiu verificar com maior aprofundamento a temática em questão, desvelando as percepções dos docentes de enfermagem. Faz-se necessário que instituições de ensino se atentem para esses fatores com vistas a mitigar as lacunas por meio de estratégias inovadoras e experiências exitosas no ensino de competências gerenciais.

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is a widely used polyester with several applications, including offshore platforms and mooring lines of the Oil & Gas industry. Due to the widespread use of PET and the growing concern about its environmental impact, biotechnology emerges as a potential solution to mitigate this problem. This work aims to evaluate, for the first time, the potential of Y. lipolytica IMUFRJ 50682 in the biodegradation of PET from waste mooring lines of Oil & Gas offshore platforms. In this study, the biodegradation of PET from mooring lines by the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica was investigated through submerged cultivation or solid-state fermentation. After fermentation was complete, the biodegradation of PET sampled from the culture medium was evidenced by an increase in transmittance in areas related to the ester group detected through Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) for both culture strategies and all media tested. Besides, the crystallinity of PET increased by 79% and 72% after submerged cultivation using CSL-G + DMSO medium (2% corn steep liquor, 2% glycerol, and 5% Dimethyl sulfoxide) and after solid-state fermentation, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of scratches and erosions on the polymer's surface after the microbial cultivation. The presence of PET monomer, terephthalic acid (TPA) (up to 142 µmol L − 1), and some intermediates, such as bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) and mono-(hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (MHET) in the medium after Y. lipolytica growth in the presence of PET proves that the polymer is being degraded. These results suggest a good biotechnological potential of Y. lipolytica for the depolymerization of PET from mooring lines.

O objetivo desse ensaio foi analisar as implicações da BNCC do Ensino Médio para a Educação Física Escolar em reflexividade dialógica e dialética pela análise histórica e política. Por meio de constatações teórica-empíricas, mostramos uma ampla denúncia sobre os interesses neoliberais envolvidos na concepção educativa da reforma do Ensino Médio, já que essa política educacional sistematiza uma educação a serviço do capital, com um reflexo nefasto para a formação crítica e reflexiva das juventudes. Assim, a Educação Física perde cada vez mais espaço, seja pelo seu caráter optativo efetivado pelos “estudos e práticas” do componente curricular; pelo rebaixamento de sua carga horária; por sua falta de legitimidade na sociedade contemporânea; ou por seus princípios epistemológicos, políticos e pedagógicos que se distanciam de uma educação eficiente pautada na Pedagogia das competências. Por fim, defendemos a revogação da BNCC e a organização coletiva de um novo documento curricular.

Abstract Background Brazil has been dramatically hit by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and is a world leader in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. Additionally, the largest country of Latin America has been a continuous source of SARS-CoV-2 variants and shows extraordinary variability of the pandemic strains probably related to the country´s outstanding position as a Latin American economical and transportation hub. Not all regions of the country show sufficient infrastructure for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and genotyping which can negatively impact the pandemic response. Methods Due to this reason and to disburden the diagnostic system of the inner São Paulo State, the Butantan Institute established the Mobile Laboratory (in Portuguese: LabMovel) for SARS-CoV-2 testing which started a trip of the most important “hotspots” of the most populous Brazilian region. The LabMovel initiated in two important cities of the State: Aparecida do Norte (an important religious center) and the Baixada Santista region which incorporates the port of Santos, the busiest in Latin America. The LabMovel was fully equipped with an automatized system for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and sequencing/genotyping. It also integrated the laboratory systems for patient records and results divulgation including in the Federal Brazilian Healthcare System. Results Currently,16,678 samples were tested, among them 1,217 from Aparecida and 4,564 from Baixada Santista. We tracked the delta introductio in the tested regions with its high diversification. The established mobile SARS-CoV-2 laboratory had a major impact on the Public Health System of the included cities including timely delivery of the results to the healthcare agents and the Federal Healthcare system, evaluation of the vaccination status of the positive individuals in the background of exponential vaccination process in Brazil and scientific and technological divulgation of the fieldwork to the most vulnerable populations. Conclusions The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has demonstrated worldwide the importance of science to fight against this viral agent and the LabMovel shows that it is possible to integrate researchers, clinicians, healthcare workers and patients to take rapid actions that can in fact mitigate this and other epidemiological situations.

The data of neutron capture reaction cross section are very important basic data in the research fields of advanced nuclear energy development and nuclear astrophysics. In order to accurately measure the cross section of neutron capture reaction in keV energy region and fill the gap of domestic experimental data. Key laboratory of nuclear data at China Academy of Atomic Energy has built the first gamma-ray total absorption BaF2 facility in China based on back-streaming white neutron source at China spallation neutron source. The detection efficiency curve of gamma-ray is an important experimental parameter. Using the combination of experiment and simulation, the experimental results obtained by measuring 137Cs and 60Co sources are in good agreement with the simulation results of MCNP and GEANT4, which verifies the reliability of detection efficiency curve calculated by simulation. It will be used in the on-line measurement experiment of neutron capture reaction cross section.

Effective temperatures, surface gravities, and iron abundances were derived for 109 stars observed by the K2 mission using equivalent width measurements of Fe i and Fe ii lines. Calculations were carried out in local thermodynamic equilibrium using Kurucz model atmospheres. Stellar masses and radii were derived by combining the stellar parameters with Gaia Data Release 3 parallaxes, V magnitudes, and isochrones. The derived stellar and planetary radii have a median internal precision of 1.8% and 2.3%, respectively. The radius gap near R _planet ∼ 1.9 R _⊕ was detected in this K2 sample. Chromospheric activity was measured from the Ca ii H and K lines using the values of $\mathrm{log}{R}_{\mathrm{HK}}^{{\prime} }$ , which were investigated as a function of stellar rotational period ( P _rot ), and we found that chromospheric activity decreases with increasing P _rot , although there is a large scatter in $\mathrm{log}{R}_{\mathrm{HK}}^{{\prime} }$ (∼0.5) for a given P _rot . The activity levels in this sample reveal a paucity of F and G dwarfs with intermediate activity levels (the Vaughan–Preston gap). The effect that stellar activity might have on the derivation of stellar parameters was investigated by including magnetically sensitive Fe i lines in the analysis and we find no significant differences between parameters with and without magnetically sensitive lines, although the more active stars ( $\mathrm{log}{R}_{\mathrm{HK}}^{{\prime} }\gt -5.0$ ) exhibit a larger scatter in the differences in T _eff and [Fe/H].

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant widely used in various food matrices to prevent oxidative rancidity. However, its presence has been associated with liver damage and carcinogenesis in animals. Thus, an electrochemical sensor was built using a composite of gold nanoparticles synthesized in peach extract (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) and graphene. Peach extract served as a reducing and stabilizing agent for gold nanoparticles, as a dispersing agent for graphene, and as a film former to immobilize the composite on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode. The gold nanoparticles were characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, and the electrodes were electrochemically characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The sensor provided higher current responses and lower charge transfer resistances compared to the unmodified glassy carbon electrode. Under the established optimized working conditions (0.1 mol L−1 Britton–Robinson buffer, pH 4.0, and differential pulse voltammetry), the calibration curve exhibited a linear range from 0.2 to 9.8 µmol L–1, with a detection limit of 70 nmol L−1. The proposed sensor represented a sensitive and practical analytical tool for the accurate determination of BHA in mayonnaise samples.

Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is expressed in a variety of immune cells and participates in the regulation of a variety of immune responses. IRF4 is related to a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases and respiratory allergic diseases. Inhibiting the expression or the function of IRF4 can reduce or delay the occurrence and development of the disease. Studying the role and mechanism of IRF4 in chronic rhinopathy and airway allergic diseases will help provide new strategies for disease treatment.

Abstract The COVID-19 has severely affected economies and health systems around the world. Mass testing could work as a powerful alternative to restrain disease dissemination, but the shortage of reagents is a limiting factor. A solution to optimize test usage relies on ‘grouping’ or ‘pooling’ strategies, which combine a set of individuals in a single reaction. To compare different group testing configurations, we developed the poolingr package, which performs an innovative hybrid in silico/in vitro approach to search for optimal testing configurations. We used 6759 viral load values, observed in 2389 positive individuals, to simulate a wide range of scenarios. We found that larger groups (>100) framed into multi-stage setups (up to six stages) could largely boost the power to detect spreaders. Although the boost was dependent on the disease prevalence, our method could point to cheaper grouping schemes to better mitigate COVID-19 dissemination through identification and quarantine recommendation for positive individuals.

COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2 which has structural and non-structural proteins (NSP) essential for infection and viral replication. There is a possible binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the beta-1 chain of hemoglobin in red blood cells and thus, decreasing the oxygen transport capacity. Since hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) can accumulate in red cells, there is a chance of interaction of this drug with the virus. To analyze possible interactions between SARS-CoV-2 NSP and hemoglobin with the HCQ using molecular docking and implications for the infected host. This research consisted of a study using bioinformatics tools. The files of the protein structures and HCQ were prepared using the AutoDock Tools software. These files were used to perform molecular docking simulations by AutoDock Vina. The binding affinity report of the generated conformers was analyzed using PyMol software, as well as the chemical bonds formed. The results showed that HCQ is capable of interacting with both SARS-CoV-2 NSP and human hemoglobin. The HCQ/NSP3 conformer, HCQ/NSP5, HCQ/NSP7-NSP8-NSP12, HCQ/NSP9, HCQ/NSP10-NSP16 showed binding affinity. In addition, the interaction between HCQ and hemoglobin resulted in polar bonds. Interaction between SARS-CoV-2 NSP and HCQ indicates that this drug possibly acts by preventing the continuity of infection.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os fatores que contribuem para a desmotivação de estudantes do sexo feminino nas aulas de Educação Física nos anos finais do Ensino Fundamental. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de natureza qualitativa e descritiva. Foi aplicado um questionário semiestruturado para 53 estudantes do sexo feminino de quatro escolas da zona urbana da cidade de Iguatu-CE. Para a análise e interpretação dos dados foi utilizada a análise temática de conteúdo. Os resultados evidenciaram que aulas realizadas em contra turno, rejeição dos colegas, agressividade dos meninos, cansaço, desinteresse pela disciplina, carência na diversificação de conteúdos e nos métodos de ensino são os principais fatores relacionados a desmotivação. Conclui-se que a desmotivação é caracterizada por fatores que podem ser revertidos com ações curriculares, metodológicas e organizacionais relacionadas as políticas educacionais.

Introduction: The pathological status of obesity can influence COVID-19 from its initial clinical presentation, therefore, the identification of clinical and laboratory parameters most affected in the presence of obesity can contribute to improving the treatment of the disease. Objective: To identify the clinical, laboratory, and tomographic characteristics associated with obesity and BMI at t hospital admission in adult patients with COVID-19. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study with a total of 315 participants with COVID-19 confirmed by rt-PCR. The participants were divided into non-Obese (n=203) and Obese (n=112). Physical examinations, laboratory tests, and computed tomography of the chest were performed during the first 2 days of hospitalization. Results: Patients with obesity were younger, and they had higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure, higher frequency of alcoholism, fever, cough, and headache, higher ALT, LDH, and red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, and percentage of lymphocytes. Also, they presented a lower value of leukocyte count and Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio (RNL). The parameters positively correlated with BMI were alcoholism, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fever, cough, sore throat, number of symptoms, ALT in men, LDH, magnesium, RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and percentage of lymphocytes. The parameters negatively correlated with the BMI were: age and RNL. Conclusion: Several parameters were associated with obesity at hospital admission, revealing better than expected results. However, these results should be interpreted with great caution, as there may be some influence of a phenomenon called the Obesity Paradox that can distort the severity and prognosis of the patient.

Buscou-se mapear e analisar a produção da pós-graduação brasileira sobre Transtorno do Espectro Autista e Educação Física escolar. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, embasada no Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da Capes. Os seis descritores utilizados mantiveram os termos “Educação Física escolar” e “Educação Física'', precedidos de: “Transtorno do Espectro Autista”, Autismo e TEA, com o operador booleano AND. Foram exibidos 205 trabalhos. Após aplicação dos filtros, 87,5% dos 16 estudos selecionados foram publicados a partir de 2017, 68,75% dos quais produzidos nas regiões Sudeste e Sul. Foram identificadas três categorias que tratavam sobre intervenções didático-metodológicas para inclusão do(a) estudante com TEA; influências da formação profissional no desenvolvimento de aulas para esses(as) estudantes e a importância dos aspectos socioemocionais na socialização do(a) estudante. Conclui-se que os debates sobre essa temática estão em evolução. Todavia, percebe-se faltarem estudos no Ensino Médio e Educação de Jovens e Adultos.

Este artigo tem como objetivo avaliar como estudantes de Metodologia de Ensino de Língua Inglesa avaliaram o uso de tecnologias digitais, particularmente do Whatsapp, durante a oferta do trimestre excepcional no âmbito da pandemia de Covid-19 na Universidade XXXXXXX. A metodologia é qualitativa com uso de dados de respostas da auto avaliação final da disciplina e análise de conteúdo feita a partir de padrões de reação à experiência na disciplina. O resultado global indica uma avaliação positiva do ambiente digital. Foram também relatadas vantagens e desvantagens do uso do Whatsapp na aprendizagem. Os resultados vão de encontro a estudos na Linguística Aplicada que indicam que estudantes em formação inicial tendem a incorporar as tecnologias digitais às suas práticas na integração de reflexão crítica com uso efetivo dessas tecnologias no percurso acadêmico.

Extracellular proteolytic enzymes are produced by a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, and contribute to host colonization by modulating virulence. Here, we present a first characterization of leptolysin, a Leptospira metalloprotease of the pappalysin family identified in a previous exoproteomic study. Comparative molecular analysis of leptolysin with two other pappalysins from prokaryotes, ulilysin and mirolysin, reveals similarities regarding calcium, zinc, and arginine -binding sites conservation within the catalytic domain, but also discloses peculiarities. Variations observed in the primary and tertiary structures may reflect differences in primary specificities. Purified recombinant leptolysin of L. interrogans was obtained as a ~50 kDa protein. The protease exhibited maximal activity at pH 8.0 and 37°C, and hydrolytic activity was observed in the presence of different salts with maximum efficiency in NaCl. Substrate specificity was assessed using a small number of FRET peptides, and showed a marked preference for arginine residues at the P1 position. L. interrogans leptolysin proteolytic activity on proteinaceous substrates such as proteoglycans and plasma fibronectin was also evaluated. All proteins tested were efficiently degraded over time, confirming the protease´s broad-spectrum activity in vitro. In addition, leptolysin induced morphological alterations on HK-2 cells, which may be partially attributed to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Hemorrhagic foci were observed in the dorsal skin of mice intradermally injected with leptolysin, as a plausible consequence of ECM disarray and vascular endothelium glycocalyx damage. Assuming that leptospiral proteases play an important role in all stages of the infectious process, characterizing their functional properties, substrates and mechanisms of action is of great importance for therapeutic purposes.

Understanding the architecture of gene expression is fundamental to unravel the molecular mechanisms regulating complex traits in bovine, such as intramuscular fat content (IMF) and backfat thickness (BFT). These traits are economically important for the beef industry since they affect carcass and meat quality. Our main goal was to identify gene expression regulatory polymorphisms within genomic regions (QTL) associated with IMF and BFT in Nellore cattle. For that, we used RNA-Seq data from 193 Nellore steers to perform SNP calling analysis. Then, we combined the RNA-Seq SNP and a high-density SNP panel to obtain a new dataset for further genome-wide association analysis (GWAS), totaling 534,928 SNPs. GWAS was performed using the Bayes B model. Twenty-one relevant QTL were associated with our target traits. The expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis was performed using Matrix eQTL with the complete SNP dataset and 12,991 genes, revealing a total of 71,033 cis and 36,497 trans-eQTL (FDR < 0.05). Intersecting with QTL for IMF, we found 231 eQTL regulating the expression levels of 117 genes. Within those eQTL, three predicted deleterious SNPs were identified. We also identified 109 eQTL associated with BFT and affecting the expression of 54 genes. This study revealed genomic regions and regulatory SNPs associated with fat deposition in Nellore cattle. We highlight the transcription factors FOXP4, FOXO3, ZSCAN2, and EBF4, involved in lipid metabolism-related pathways. These results helped us to improve our knowledge about the genetic architecture behind important traits in cattle.

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Este relato de experiência descreve as ações realizadas de forma interdisciplinar de Manejo de Unidades de Conservação e Ética Profissional, Direitos Humanos e Relações Étnico-Raciais do projeto de curricularização da extensão: “Áreas protegidas de Rondônia: aspectos florestais e humanos”. O objetivo do projeto foi relatar a prática extensionista que teve como assunto a zona de amortecimento da Reserva Biológica (REBIO) do Jaru, através de um vídeo dinâmico apresentado para as turmas de alunos do ensino médio das escolas públicas do perímetro urbano e rural. No contexto da pandemia por COVID-19, o vídeo mostrou-se um meio acessível para divulgar a REBIO do Jaru, bem como as ameaças que a circundam, junto à comunidade local. Portanto, as práticas relatadas demonstraram a importância da conservação da biodiversidade do bioma amazônico e a evolução dos acadêmicos enquanto protagonistas dessa atividade de extensão.