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Introduction: Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) are one way to assess competencies, and are designed to bridge the gap between theoretical competencies and real world clinical practice. Aims: This was a systematic review which aims to answer the question: "Which EPAs related to Emergency Medicine are described for medical schools?". Methods: We included original qualitative, interventional and observational studies (cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies) that described EPAs relevant to Emergency Medicine for Medical School. The search strategy was created using a combination of keywords and standardized index terms related to EPAs and Emergency Medicine. Results: The search strategy identified 991 citations. After screening the titles and abstracts, we identified 85 potentially relevant studies. After the full-text review, a total of 11 reports met the criteria for inclusion. Conclusion: Recognizing a patient requiring urgent or emergent care and initiating evaluation and management is the most common EPA related to Emergency Medicine described at Medical Schools. Use of EPAs is associated with increased student satisfaction and improved competences. However, there is a lack of undergraduate EM specific EPAs being systematically developed and published, and this should be an area to be explored in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucalyptus branches and bark represent highly abundant and available feedstocks with great potential for obtaining bio-based products. Distinct and integrated pretreatment fractionation strategies for eucalyptus branches and bark were performed for the efficient production of xylooligosaccharides (XOS). By combining pretreatments, a high yield of XOS was obtained from eucalyptus branches and bark. The branches and bark were presoaked in 8% (w/w) sodium hydroxide at 60 °C for 30 min to provide a deacetylation effect. The residues were then hydrothermally treated. The findings revealed that 4.64% of XOS originated from the bark and 6.19% from eucalyptus branches. It has been demonstrated that xylan may be selectively depolymerized during pretreatment by preventing excessive hydrolysis through the use of deacetylation in the first phase of the process. More XOS was produced using hydrothermal treatment, yielding 8.00% (w/w) in the branches and 5.12% in the bark. A significant amount of XOS with DP 2–5 might be obtained in certain experiments, up to 60%, but the most abundant XOS are usually those with DP > 5 (approximately 80% of all XOS). This work provides new insights into the effective generation of XOS under relatively mild conditions by overcoming the recalcitrant structure of eucalyptus branches and bark, representing a noteworthy advancement towards forestry leftover valorization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Although quantum mechanical calculations have proven effective in accurately predicting UV absorption and assessing the antioxidant potential of compounds, the utilization of computer-aided drug design (CADD) to support sustainable synthesis research of new sunscreen active ingredients remains an area with limited exploration. Furthermore, there are ongoing concerns about the safety and effectiveness of existing sunscreens. Therefore, it remains crucial to investigate photoprotection mechanisms and develop enhanced strategies for mitigating the harmful effects of UVR exposure, improving both the safety and efficacy of sunscreen products. A previous study conducted synthesis research on eight novel hybrid compounds (I–VIII) for use in sunscreen products by molecular hybridization of trans-resveratrol (RESV), avobenzone (AVO), and octinoxate (OMC). Herein, time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations performed in the gas phase on the isolated hybrid compounds (I–VIII) proved to reproduce the experimental UV absorption. Resveratrol-avobenzone structure-based hybrids (I–IV) present absorption maxima in the UVB range with slight differences between them, while resveratrol-OMC structure-based hybrids (V–VIII) showed main absorption in the UVA range. Among RESV-OMC hybrids, compounds V and VI exhibited higher UV absorption intensity, and compound VIII stood out for its broad-spectrum coverage in our simulations. Furthermore, both in silico and in vitro analyses revealed that compounds VII and VIII exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with compound I emerging as the most reactive antioxidant within RESV-AVO hybrids. The study suggests a preference for the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism over single-electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT) in the gas phase. With a strong focus on sustainability, this approach reduces costs and minimizes effluent production in synthesis research, promoting the eco-friendly development of new sunscreen active ingredients. Methods: The SPARTAN'20 program was utilized for the geometry optimization and energy calculations of all compounds. Conformer distribution analysis was performed using the Merck molecular force field 94 (MMFF94), and geometry optimization was carried out using the parametric method 6 (PM6) followed by density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP/6-31G(d)). The antioxidant behavior of the hybrid compounds (I–VIII) was determined using the highest occupied molecular orbital (εHOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (εLUMO) energies, as well as the bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), and proton dissociation enthalpy (PDE) values, all calculated at the same level of structural optimization. TD-DFT study is carried out to calculate the excitation energy using the B3LYP functional with the 6-31G(d) basis set. The calculated transitions were convoluted with a Gaussian profile using the Gabedit program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance and vulnerability of municipalities in the eastern Amazon led to the evaluation of the distribution of seasonal precipitation and extreme events over protected and deforested sites along the Carajás Railroad (EFC) based on three datasets: Brazilian Daily Weather Gridded Data (BR-DWGD), European Reanalysis (ERA5-Land), and Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station (CHIRPS). The main purpose is the understanding of the relationship between local land use change and the occurrence of extreme climate events. Results suggested that large-scale deforestation has a regional impact occasionally outweighing local effect. Significant trends reveal a general pattern of drought that has been more intense in the north of the study area, regardless of land cover, whether preserved or deforested. Moreover, the dry season is getting drier, but the wet season is not getting wetter over the entire area, as Carajás National Forest and Curionópolis (southern sector) deliver positive and accentuated trends in the rainy season. Extreme events are becoming more frequent. The number of consecutive dry days has increased in the north revealing an extension of dry periods, whereas, the maximum one-day precipitation has soared in the south indicating the intensification of rainfall. CHIRPS provides stronger correlations with the standard dataset (BR-DWGD), as both furnish primary data based on rain gauges observations. It also outperforms ERA5-Land in annual and seasonal analyses, which does not invalidate the latter as a great alternative to use in data-poor locations. Ultimately, further research and technology implementation were recommended to improve reforestation efforts given the reported results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases generate high costs for public health systems, making it necessary to develop/discover anticoagulant or antiplatelet agents. In this context, the present study investigated the antithrombotic action of the essential oil of Levisticum officinale W.D.J. Koch in an in vitro experimental model. The oil chemical composition was characterized using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The trypan blue exclusion assay in platelets (in vitro) was carried out. Systemic toxicity was studied by an in vivo model of Galleria mellonella larvae. Platelet aggregation assay was performed by turbidimetry in an aggregometer device, using the adenosine receptor agonist, ADP, and epinephrine (EPI). Coagulation was determined by prothrombin activity time (PT) and partially activated thromboplastin time (aPTT) in the coagulation system. Platelet activation was assessed by P-selectin expression and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content by flow cytometry and fluorescence, respectively. The oil is composed of monoterpenes, including α-terpinyl acetate, β-phellandrene, β-myrcene, α-terpineol, and (Z)-β-ocimene. The oil did not show toxicity in vitro and in vivo. The oil significantly reduced platelet aggregation against ADP and EPI. EPI-induced aggregation was most potently inhibited. Treatment of platelets with oil showed a decrease in P-selectin expression and ROS production when compared to vehicle. On the other hand, the oil did not interfere in PT and aPTT. The results demonstrated that the essential oil of Levisticum officinale has antiplatelet action but without anticoagulant effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Staphylococcus aureus is known to be a human pathogen and is often resistant to antibiotics, so there is a demand for new treatment alternatives that have the ability to reverse such resistance. The present study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial action and reversal of the efflux pump activity of the compounds Isopulegol (ISO) and its β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex (ISO/β-CD) in S. aureus strains carrying an efflux pump. (MsrA, TetK, NorA and MepA). The complex was obtained using the paste complexation method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ISO and ISO/β-CD was determined for the evaluation of antibacterial activity against multiresistant strains of S. aureus (RN4220, IS-58, 1199, 1199B and K2068) and the compounds showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≥ 1024 μg/mL. Modulation assays were performed using ISO and ISO/β-CD, which associated with antibiotics and Ethidium Bromide (EtBr) showed synergism and MIC reduction in some of the tested bacteria. Therefore, it can be concluded that the isolated compounds ISO and ISO/β-CD are effective in inhibiting the efflux pump mechanism against some of the tested strains; with modulation, only strains IS-58, SA 1199 and K2068 showed a MIC decrease effect, while all strains showed a reduction in MIC with ethidium bromide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study examined the impact of premedication with ibuprofen and ibuprofen-arginine and the influence of preoperative pain and anxiety on inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) efficacy in cases of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Materials and methods: The study involved 150 SIP patients who were randomly assigned to receive ibuprofen (600 mg), ibuprofen-arginine (1,155 mg), or a placebo 30 min before IANB. Preoperative anxiety and pain levels were assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale and the Heft-Parker visual scale. IANB efficacy was determined by the absence of or mild pain during the procedure. Statistical analysis included chi-square, z-tests, Analysis of Variance, and Student's t tests. Results: The ibuprofen and ibuprofen-arginine groups exhibited significantly higher IANB success rates (62% and 78%, respectively) compared to the placebo group (34%). However, no significant difference was observed between the ibuprofen and ibuprofen-arginine groups. Patients with successful IANB in the ibuprofen and ibuprofen-arginine groups displayed lower median anxiety scores (8) than those with failed blocks (15) and lower mean preoperative pain scores (118.3). Conclusion: In cases of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis the preemptive medication with ibuprofen-arginine effectively increased the efficacy of the inferior alveolar nerve block The inferior alveolar nerve block efficacy was influenced by preoperative anxiety levels and the intensity of pain. Clinical relevance: This research underscores the potential benefits of oral premedication with ibuprofen and ibuprofen-arginine in improving anesthesia outcomes in cases of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main issues in gravitation is the presence of singularities in the most common space-time solutions of General Relativity, as the case of black holes. A way of constructing regular solutions that remove spacelike singularities consists in implement a bounce on such space-time, leading to what is usually known as black bounce space-times. Such space-times are known to describe regular black holes or traversable wormholes. However, one of the main issues lies on reconstructing the appropriate source that leads to such a solution. In this paper, a reconstruction method is implemented to show that such types of metrics can be well accommodated in non-linear electrodynamics with the presence of a scalar field. Some of the most important black bounces solutions are reconstructed in this framework, both in 3 + 1 as in 2 + 1 dimensions. For the first time in the literature, these solutions have an electrically charged source of matter from non-linear electrodynamics. Specific features are indicated that distinguish electric sources from magnetic ones, previously found for the same space-times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in leguminous plants is a widespread approach, and the exploration of symbiotic bacteria that are efficient in biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) continues to be explored. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of inoculation and coinoculation of mung bean plants with different combinations of Bradyrhizobium (B. elkanii BR 2003, B. pachyrhizi BR 3262, B. yuanmingense BR 3267, B. paxllaeri BR 10398 and B. icense BR 10399), Azospirillum baldaniorum (Sp245) and Bacillus pumilus (UFPEDA 472) on the contribution of biomass, the concentration of nitrogen (N) compounds and BNF. The experiment was carried out under greenhouse conditions with pots containing washed and autoclaved sand. Mung bean seeds were inoculated or coinoculated (double or triple) with Bradyrhizobium, A. baldaniorum and/or Bacillus pumilus, and one absolute control (not inoculated) was used. The experimental design was a completely randomized design with 21 treatments harvested in two different periods (flowering and pod maturation). Inoculation and coinoculation positively influenced the number of nodules, shoot dry weight, N accumulated, total N content and inorganic and organic compounds (free ammonia, nitrate, ureides and leghemoglobin), indicating that there was efficiency in BNF and synergistic interaction between the bacteria used and the mung bean plants. Inoculation with Bradyrhizobium species and the combination of these strains with A. baldaniorum and Bacillus pumilus positively influenced N fixation and metabolism in mung bean plants, especially when B. elkanii BR 2003 and B. pachyrhizi BR 3262 were used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the expression of genes in the Longissimus dorsi muscle related to meat quality of hair lambs finished in an Integration Crop-Livestock system. Twenty-eight non-castrated lambs of two breeds, Somalis Brasileira and Santa Inês, at 120 ± 15 days of age, with an average initial live weight of 18 ± 3.1 kg, were kept in a pasture-based finishing system with supplementation. Upon reaching 28 kg body weight, animals were sent for slaughter. Samples of the Longissimus dorsi and Biceps femoris muscle were harvested for analyses of gene expression and physicochemical properties. Significant differences were detected between the breeds for tissue and chemical composition, whereas the physical aspects did not differ. We observed the expression of six genes related to lipid synthesis (acetyl-CoA carboxylase [ACACA], fatty acid synthase [FAS], stearoyl-CoA desaturase [SCD], lipoprotein lipase [LPL], cell death-inducing DFFA-like effector A [CIDEA], and thyroid hormone responsive [THRSP]) and six genes related to molecular synthesis (myostatin [MSTN], growth differentiation factor 8 [GDF8], insulin-like growth factor 1 [IGF1], insulin-like growth factor 2 [IGF2], delta-like 1 homolog [DLK1], and growth hormone receptor [GHr]) in both breeds. The Santa Inês breed and the Somalis Brasileira showed similar expression patterns of genes related to lipogenesis and myogenesis of the Longissimus dorsi muscle, with the exception of the THRSP gene, in which the Somalis Brasileira have more receptors for the action of thyroid hormones, which resulted in greater thickness of fat in the carcass (subcutaneous fat) and higher lipid content in the chemical composition of the meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We systematically investigated the first-order molecular hyperpolarizability, a second-order nonlinear optical phenomenon of 185 organic compounds comprising both benzophenone and benzophenone hydrazone derivatives. We considered compounds with different combinations of electron donor groups -H, -F, -CH3, -Cl, -Br, OCH3, -NH2, -NHCH3, -NHC2H5, -N(CH3)2, and electron acceptor group -NO2 attached to the para positions R1 or R2 of the aromatic rings. The reported first-order molecular hyperpolarizability values were obtained by quantum-chemical calculations using semiempirical and density functional theory approaches in the gas phase. Our results reveal that BP-25 (R1 = NO2, R2 = N(CH3)2) and BPH-39 (R1 = N(CH3)2, R2 = NO2) exhibited the highest dynamic first-order molecular hyperpolarizability value of about . These findings underline the potential of specific BP and BPH derivatives as candidates for photonic applications, particularly for developing second harmonic generation crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobials fight microorganisms, preventing and treating infectious diseases. However, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern due to the inappropriate and excessive use of these drugs. Several mechanisms can lead to resistance, including efflux pumps such as the NorA pump in Staphylococcus aureus, which reduces the effectiveness of fluoroquinolones. Thiadiazines are heterocyclic compounds whose chemical structure resembles that of cephalosporins. Therefore, these compounds and their derivatives have been studied for their potential in combating increased bacterial resistance. To analyze this hypothesis, direct activity assays, antibiotic action-modifying activity, fluorescence assays to evaluate the retention of ethidium bromide inside bacteria, and molecular docking were carried out. These experiments involved serial dilutions in microplates against Staphylococcus aureus strain 1199B under the influence of six thiadiazine derivatives (IJ10, IJ11, IJ21, IJ22, IJ23, and IJ25). The tests revealed that, despite not showing effective direct activity, some thiadiazine derivatives (IJ11, IJ21, and IJ22) inhibited the function of the bromide pump both in microdilution tests and in fluorescence and docking assays. Particularly, the IJ11 compound stood out for its activity similar to efflux inhibitors, as well as its inhibition of the norfloxacin pump of this bacterium. Among the results of this study, it deserves to be highlighted for anchoring future experiments, as it represents the first investigation of this group of thiadiazine derivatives against the NorA pump. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological invasions are significant threats to biodiversity and are often exacerbated by human activities. This study consolidates occurrence data of Eriotremex formosanus (Matsumura) (Hymenoptera: Siricidae), models its ecological niche, and analyzes spatial congruence with global Pinus L. occurrences to identify at-risk areas across continents. Through a combination of techniques utilizing distribution records and environmental predictor variables, the study predicts the E. formosanus ecological niche. The models show high accuracy with AUC values of 0.959 ± 0.023, TSS of 0.852 ± 0.048, and Jaccard coefficients of 0.865 ± 0.037. The findings reveal a widespread global suitability for E. formosanus, encompassing previously unreported regions in Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Europe, Africa, and Australasia, with notable suitability in the Americas and a well-established presence from Japan to India in Asia. South American regions from northern Guyana to western Venezuela and along the Brazilian Atlantic coast are particularly suitable. The identified suitable areas significantly overlap with Pinus occurrences, primarily in temperate zones, pinpointing potential regions at invasion risk. Additionally, we recorded for the first time the occurrence of E. formosanus in South America. Given the recent discovery of this species in Brazil, this overlap necessitates urgent attention to potential invasion regions and pathways. The study underscores the importance of focused sampling in potential distribution areas and highlights the utility of ecological niche modeling in predicting and managing the spread of invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excess sugar is considered one of the primary factors contributing to overweight status. In Brazil, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) contain a significant amount of this nutrient and are consumed excessively. These beverages are associated with adverse health outcomes and impose costs on the healthcare system. The literature currently lacks studies that aim to attribute specific nutrients or foods as causes of diseases and also evaluate their economic impact, especially in middle- and low-income countries. This study aims to estimate the direct and indirect costs of obesity, stratified by sex and age group, resulting from the excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages in Brazil from 2008 to 2020, and to project these costs for the year 2036. The estimation of obesity costs attributable to excessive consumption of SSBs was based on relative risks and the population prevalence of obesity, considering expenditures on hospitalizations and outpatient procedures in the Unified Health System (SUS). Cost information was obtained from the health information systems available at SUS. The highest burden attributable to the consumption of SSBs was observed among younger individuals and progressively decreased with advancing age. The total direct costs in the period between 2008 and 2020 amounted to approximately US$ 6.33 million, 87% of which was related to expenses for females. Additionally, deaths resulting from the consumption of SSBs cost the economy US$ 40 million due to the premature loss of productivity. The total costs of obesity attributable to the consumption of SSBs are substantial, impacting public spending and generating social and productivity losses that burden the economy. It is crucial to develop and implement cost-effective fiscal and regulatory policies aimed at preventing and combating obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viviparity evolved ~115 times across squamate reptiles, facilitating the colonization of cold habitats, where oviparous species are scarce or absent. Whether the ecological opportunity furnished by such colonization reconfigures phenotypic diversity and accelerates evolution is unclear. We investigated the association between viviparity and patterns and rates of body size evolution in female Liolaemus lizards, the most species-rich tetrapod genus from temperate regions. Here, we discover that viviparous species evolve ~20% larger optimal body sizes than their oviparous relatives, but exhibit similar rates of body size evolution. Through a causal modeling approach, we find that viviparity indirectly influences body size evolution through shifts in thermal environment. Accordingly, the colonization of cold habitats favors larger body sizes in viviparous species, reconfiguring body size diversity in Liolaemus. The catalyzing influence of viviparity on phenotypic evolution arises because it unlocks access to otherwise inaccessible sources of ecological opportunity, an outcome potentially repeated across the tree of life. Evolution of viviparity supports expansion into cold habitats. Here, the authors examine viviparity with patterns and rates of body size evolution in female Liolaemus lizards, finding that viviparous species are 20% larger with similar rates of evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the limitations of using sensitivity and specificity as the sole criteria for evaluating diagnostic tests in clinical practice. It suggests that likelihood ratios offer a more comprehensive and forward-looking approach to diagnostics. Likelihood ratios allow clinicians to update their diagnostic probabilities based on new evidence and consider the pre-test probability of a disease in a given population. The article also emphasizes the importance of Bayesian reasoning in clinical decision-making, which integrates prior probabilities and diagnostic performance to provide a more nuanced and patient-centered diagnostic process. It discusses the use of likelihood ratios in clinical practice for diagnostic reasoning, highlighting their role in facilitating a cognitive shift towards probabilistic reasoning and considering the magnitude of change in disease probability. The article argues that likelihood ratios are more accessible and essential in navigating the complexities of medical practice compared to alternative Bayesian approaches. [Extracted from the article]

In vitro cellular models provide valuable insights into the adaptive biochemical mechanisms triggered by cells to cope with the stress situation induced by hypoxia and reoxygenation cycles. The first biological data generated in studies based on this micrometric life-scale has the potential to provide us a global overview about the main biochemical phenomena presented in some reported preconditioning therapies in life-scale of higher dimensions. Thus, in this study, a cell incubator was designed and manufactured to produce a cellular model of heart hypoxia followed by reoxygenation (HfR) through consecutive repetitions of hypoxia-normoxia gas exchange. Samples of cellular extracts and culture media were obtained from non-proliferative cardiomyocytes (CMs) cultivated under challenging HfR (stressed CMs) and regular cultivation (unstressed CMs) in rounds of four days for each case. Metabolomic based on proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) was used as an analytical approach to identify and quantify the metabolomes of these samples, the endo- and exo-metabolome. Despite the stressed CMs presented over 90% higher cellular death rate compared to the unstressed CMs, the metabolic profiles indicates that the surviving cells up-regulate their amino acid metabolism either by active protein degradation or by the consumption of culture media components to increase coenzyme A-dependent metabolic pathways. This cell auto-regulation mechanism could be well characterized in the first two days when the difference smears off under once the metabolomes become similar. The metabolic adaptations of stressed CMs identified the relevance of the cyclic oxidation/reduction reactions of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate molecules, NADP+/NADPH, and the increased tricarboxylic acid cycle activity in an environment overloaded with such a powerful antioxidant agent to survive an extreme HfR challenge. Thus, the combination of cellular models based on CMs, investigative methods, such as metabolomic and 1H-MRS, and the instrumental development of hypoxia incubator shown in this work were able to provide the first biochemical evidences behind therapies of gaseous exchanges paving the way to future assays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological invasions pose significant threats to biodiversity, with invasive species spread often facilitated by human activities. Consequently, this research utilized ecological niche modeling (ENM) to overcome this limitation and map the potential suitability of Microtheca ochroloma Stål, 1860 and Microtheca semilaevis Stål, 1860, which have been evaluated as potential insect pests in the Americas, zones for four genera of Brassicaceae, which include globally cultivated species such as Sinapis L., Raphanus L., Eruca Mill., and Brassica L. We utilized multiple methods to forecast the ecological habitat of Microtheca Stål, 1860 species based on distribution data and various environmental indicators. Our models, exhibiting high-performance metrics (TSS ranging from 0.84 to 0.96), revealed extensive environmental suitability for these species across the Americas, including previously unreported regions. The predicted zones overlapped significantly with areas where Brassicaceae crops were grown. Contrary to some previous assertions, our findings suggest that while these Microtheca species are recognized pests on these crops, their consistent widespread damage may be overstated. Nevertheless, their invasive potential could have broad ecological impacts, including biodiversity loss. Our research emphasizes the need for focused sampling in potential distribution zones and underlines the value of integrating ENM in predicting and managing invasive species spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present research brings the analysis of the influence of steel fibers on the mechanical degradation of reinforced concrete beams under flexural fatigue loading. Current experimental work aims to emphasize the fiber capacity in mitigating the mechanical decay of the concrete structures in terms of rebar deformation, crack spacing and other mechanical parameters. The experimental campaign encompassed reinforced concrete beams with low reinforcing ratio of 0.35%. While two beams were produced with plain concrete, the other two were fabricated with the addition of 40 kg/m3 of hooked-end steel fibers. The fatigue tests were load-controlled under a 6 Hz sinusoidal wave under distinct loading level ranges. When comparing the same loading range, steel fiber reinforced concrete structural beams reported much lower strain values along the fatigue test. The fibers showed a very effective capacity to redistribute the stresses in the traction zone and, consequently, reducing the measured strains on the longitudinal reinforcement. Similar mechanical deterioration was observed when it comes to the analysis of deflection and curvature evolution along the fatigue test. The rate of mechanical deterioration is linked to the applied stress levels. The growth of one main crack reveals that the fatigue rupture was controlled by the stress concentrations in the tensile rebars at the crack location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged exposure to iron powder and other mineral dusts can threaten the health of individuals, especially those with COPD. The goal of this study was to determine how environmental exposure to metal dust from two different mining centers in Brazil affects lung mechanics, inflammation, remodeling and oxidative stress responses in healthy and elastase-exposed mice. This study divided 72 male C57Bl/6 mice into two groups, the summer group and the winter group. These groups were further divided into six groups: control, nonexposed (SAL); nonexposed, given elastase (ELA); exposed to metal powder at a mining company (SAL-L1 and ELA-L1); and exposed to a location three miles away from the mining company (SAL-L2 and ELA-L2) for four weeks. On the 29th day of the protocol, the researchers assessed lung mechanics, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), inflammation, remodeling, oxidative stress, macrophage iron and alveolar wall alterations (mean linear intercept-Lm). The Lm was increased in the ELA, ELA-L1 and ELA-L2 groups compared to the SAL group (p < 0.05). There was an increase in the total number of cells and macrophages in the ELA-L1 and ELA-L2 groups compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Compared to the ELA and SAL groups, the exposed groups (ELA-L1, ELA-L2, SAL-L1, and SAL-L2) exhibited increased expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, neutrophil elastase, TIMP-1, MMP-9, MMP-12, TGF-β, collagen fibers, MUC5AC, iNOS, Gp91phox, NFkB and iron positive macrophages (p < 0.05). Although we did not find differences in lung mechanics across all groups, there were low to moderate correlations between inflammation remodeling, oxidative stress and NFkB with elastance, resistance of lung tissue and iron positive macrophages (p < 0.05). Environmental exposure to iron, confirmed by evaluation of iron in alveolar macrophages and in air, exacerbated inflammation, initiated remodeling, and induced oxidative stress responses in exposed mice with and without emphysema. Activation of the iNOS, Gp91phox and NFkB pathways play a role in these changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic esophageal perforations (TEP) are a grave medical condition and require immediate intervention. Techniques such as Esophageal Self-Expandable Metal Stent (E-SEMS) and Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy (EVT) show promise in reducing tissue damage and controlling esophageal leakage. The present study aims to compare the application of EVT to E-SEMS placement in TEP. Methods: Retrospective cohort study valuated 30 patients with TEP. The E-SEMS and EVT groups were assessed for time of hospitalization, treatment duration, costs, and clinical outcome. Results: Patients treated with EVT (24.4 ± 13.2) demonstrated significantly shorter treatment duration (p < 0.005) compared to the group treated with E-SEMS (45.8 ± 12.9) and patients submitted to E-SEMS demonstrated a significant reduction (p = 0.02) in the time of hospitalization compared to the EVT (34 ± 2 vs 82 ± 5 days). Both groups demonstrated a satisfactory discharge rate (E-SEMS 93.7% vs EVT 71.4%) but did not show statistically significant difference (p = 0.3155). E-SEMS treatment had a lower mean cost than EVT (p < 0.05). Descriptive statistics were utilized, arranged in table form, where frequencies, percentages, mean, median, and standard deviation of the study variables were calculated and counted. The Fisher's Exact Test was used to evaluate the relationship between two categorical variables. To evaluate differences between means and central points, the parametric t-test was utilized. Comparisons with p value up to 0.05 were considered significant. Conclusion: E-SEMS showed a shorter time of hospitalization, but a longer duration of treatment compared to EVT. The placement of E-SEMS and EVT had the same clinical outcome. Treatment with E-SEMS had a lower cost compared with EVT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1951, Hopf proved that the only surfaces, homeomorphic to the sphere, with constant mean curvature in Euclidean space are the round (geometrical) spheres. These results were generalized by S. S. Chern and then by Eschenburg and Tribuzy for surfaces homeomorphic to the sphere in Riemannian manifolds with constant sectional curvature whose mean curvature function satisfies some bound on its differential. In this paper, we extend these results for surfaces in a wide class of warped product manifolds, which includes, besides the classical space forms of constant sectional curvature, the de Sitter–Schwarzschild manifolds and the Reissner–Nordstrom manifolds, which are time slices of solutions of the Einstein field equations of general relativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work investigates how rhamnolipid biosurfactants perform when removing the pesticides atrazine and 2,4 D from an artificially contaminated tropical soil. The rhamnolipid was produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, using molasses 7% m/v as a carbon source. The red‒yellow latosol, a tropical soil, went through a physical-chemical characterization and then was artificially contaminated with the herbicides. The value of 19.82 mL/g indicated high affinity to 2,4 D by the latosol, contrary to atrazine, having only a = 0.83 mL/g. The desorption tests in contaminated soil indicated that the presence of biosurfactants enhances pesticide removal, and was influenced by the pH and biosurfactant concentrations. Both pesticides attained greater values of desorption at a higher biosurfactant concentration of 5 CMC (900 mg/L), but at different pHs. From atrazine, a higher value of desorption, 25.66 mg/kg, was attained at a pH of 7.0. From 2,4 D, however, a desorption of 13.17 mg/kg was attained at a pH of 9.0. The Gunary model was shown to be the best-fitting model for both pesticides when analyzing experimental data, indicating a multilayer desorption process. The results indicate that rhamnolipids are a promising alternative in Surfactant-enhanced remediation (SER), contributing to the recovery of pesticide-contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open-Top Chambers should be more used in tropical ecosystems to study climate change effects in plants as they are still insufficient to extract plant response patterns in these ecosystems. Understanding flora response to climate change (CC) is critical for predicting future ecosystem dynamics. Open-Top Chambers (OTCs) have been widely used to study the effects of CC on plants and are very popular in temperate ecosystems but are still underused in tropical regions. In this systematic review, we aimed to discuss the use of OTCs in the study of the effects of different agents of climate change on tropical flora by presenting scientometric data, discussing the technical aspects of its use and enumerating some observations on plant response patterns to climatic alterations in the tropics. Our analysis indicated that the bottleneck in choosing an OTC shape is not strictly related to its purpose or the type of parameter modulated; instead, passive or active approaches seem to be a more sensitive point. The common critical point in using this technique in warmer regions is overheating and decoupling, but it can be overcome with simple adaptations and extra features. The most frequently parameter modulated was CO2, followed by O3 and temperature. The plant families with more representatives in the studies analyzed were Fabaceae, Myrtaceae, and Poaceae, and the most represented biome was tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests. In conclusion, OTCs are a valuable and feasible tool to study CC effects on various tropical ecosystems, regardless of structure, active/passive approach, or other technical features. One of the primary advantages of this methodology is its applicability for in situ use, eliminating the need for plant transplantation. We encourage studies using OTC experimental design for plant conservation in the tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Renal cell carcinoma is an aggressive disease with a high mortality rate. Management has drastically changed with the new era of immunotherapy, and novel strategies are being developed; however, identifying systemic treatments is still challenging. This paper presents an update of the expert panel consensus from the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group and the Latin American Renal Cancer Group on advanced renal cell carcinoma management in Brazil. Methods: A panel of 34 oncologists and experts in renal cell carcinoma discussed and voted on the best options for managing advanced disease in Brazil, including systemic treatment of early and metastatic renal cell carcinoma as well as nonclear cell tumours. The results were compared with the literature and graded according to the level of evidence. Results: Adjuvant treatments benefit patients with a high risk of recurrence after surgery, and the agents used are pembrolizumab and sunitinib, with a preference for pembrolizumab. Neoadjuvant treatment is exceptional, even in initially unresectable cases. First-line treatment is mainly based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs); the choice of treatment is based on the International Metastatic Database Consortium (IMCD) risk score. Patients at favourable risk receive ICIs in combination with TKIs. Patients classified as intermediate or poor risk receive ICIs, without preference for ICI + ICIs or ICI + TKIs. Data on nonclear cell renal cancer treatment are limited. Active surveillance has a place in treating favourable-risk patients. Either denosumab or zoledronic acid can be used for treating metastatic bone disease. Conclusion: Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are the standards of care for advanced disease. The utilization and sequencing of these therapeutic agents hinge upon individual risk scores and responses to previous treatments. This consensus reflects a commitment to informed decision-making, drawn from professional expertise and evidence in the medical literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil has one of the most important ecosystems in the world, composed of five different terrestrial biomes that have undergone transformations due to human activities. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the thermal changes that occurred in the capitals of the five Brazilian regions in the last 59 years and elaborate a forecast model up to 2031. We proposed time series models with a linear trend, trigonometric functions (sine and cosine functions), and autoregressive errors for the monthly mean temperatures of each region and calculated the forecast intervals for 2031. The average temperature increase was significant for all five regions. In the last 59 years, the largest mean increase occurred in the tropical savanna with the largest increase of 2.2 °C, followed by the humid oceanic region with 1.7 °C, and the other regions presented an increase of 1.1 °C. Environmental and climate change is a huge challenge for humanity, just as humanity challenges the resilience of the environment through intense and frequent impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the performance of a commercially available Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) in describing and establishing differential diagnoses for radiolucent lesions in panoramic radiographs. Materials and methods: Twenty-eight panoramic radiographs, each containing a single radiolucent lesion, were evaluated in consensus by three examiners and a commercially available ChatGPT-3.5 model. They provided descriptions regarding internal structure (radiodensity, loculation), periphery (margin type, cortication), shape, location (bone, side, region, teeth/structures), and effects on adjacent structures (effect, adjacent structure). Diagnostic impressions related to origin, behavior, and nature were also provided. The GPT program was additionally prompted to provide differential diagnoses. Keywords used by the GPT program were compared to those used by the examiners and scored as 0 (incorrect), 0.5 (partially correct), or 1 (correct). Mean score values and standard deviation were calculated for each description. Performance in establishing differential diagnoses was assessed using Rank-1, -2, and − 3. Results: Descriptions of margination, affected bone, and origin received the highest scores: 0.93, 0.93, and 0.87, respectively. Shape, region, teeth/structures, effect, affected region, and nature received considerably lower scores ranging from 0.22 to 0.50. Rank-1, -2, and − 3 demonstrated accuracy in 25%, 57.14%, and 67.85% of cases, respectively. Conclusion: The performance of the GPT program in describing and providing differential diagnoses for radiolucent lesions in panoramic radiographs is variable and at this stage limited in its use for clinical application. Clinical relevance: Understanding the potential role of GPT systems as an auxiliary tool in image interpretation is imperative to validate their clinical applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While some South American primates are well-studied, many are poorly known to science. This makes reports of their ecology very valuable, especially when the region inhabited is threatened by human activities. We combined data from three independent field studies to provide a better understanding of the behavior, ecology, chemical composition of plant items consumed, and conservation of the Parecis Plateau titi monkey (Plecturocebus parecis), a recently described species from the southern Amazonian Arc of Deforestation. Specifically, we collected behavioral data for eight groups over 8 months and quantified the monkeys' activity budget. To analyze the chemical compounds in the plants eaten, we used vanillin to determine condensed tannin and alkaline precipitation to quantify total alkaloid content. We also determined the extent of forest loss and fragmentation from 2000 to 2019 within the known range of the Parecis Plateau titi monkey using satellite imagery. We found that group size ranged 2–6 individuals, and the monkeys spent 31% of the day foraging, 22% resting, 19% feeding, 14% moving, and 14% in other activities. The monkeys ate 50 plant species from 24 families and appeared to be unusually tolerant of dietary tannins but avoided alkaloids. Habitat modification within the species' range has been extensive: forest cover declined by 16.1% in 2000–2019; the largest areas of continuous forest were reduced by 37.5%; mean fragment size decreased 67.5% (from 421.0–136.9 ha). Forest loss and fragmentation were most significant in the northern half of the species' range and its southern border. Given the Parecis Plateau titi monkey's tolerance for toxic dietary species, the intense modification of its geographic range, and its capacity to live in fragmented habitats, we recommend that future studies investigate these topics across all 37 species of titi monkeys. In addition, recordings of vocal repertoires will improve field surveys and help with population estimates, especially for titi monkey species living in geographic regions that have been heavily modified by humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of using a bipolar radiofrequency track cautery device during percutaneous image-guided abdominal biopsy procedures in at-risk patients. Methods: Forty-two patients (26–79 years old; female 44%) with at least one bleeding risk factor who underwent an abdominal image-guided (CT or US) biopsy and intended bipolar radiofrequency track cautery (BRTC) were retrospectively studied. An 18G radiofrequency electrode was inserted through a 17G biopsy introducer needle immediately following coaxial 18G core biopsy, to cauterize the biopsy track using temperature control. Bleeding risk factors, technical success, and adverse events were recorded. Results: BRTC was technically successful in 41/42 (98%) of procedures; in one patient, the introducer needle retracted from the liver due to respiratory motion prior to BRTC. BRTC following percutaneous biopsy was applied during 41 abdominal biopsy procedures (renal mass = 12, renal parenchyma = 10, liver mass = 9, liver parenchyma = 5, splenic mass or parenchyma = 4, gastrohepatic mass = 1). All patients had one or more of the following risk factors: high-risk organ (spleen or renal parenchyma), hypervascular mass, elevated prothrombin time, renal insufficiency, thrombocytopenia, recent anticoagulation or anticoagulation not withheld for recommended interval, cirrhosis, intraprocedural hypertension, brisk back bleeding observed from the introducer needle, or subcapsular tumor location. No severe adverse events (grade 3 or higher) occurred. Two (2/41, 5%) mild (grade 1) bleeding events did not cause symptoms or require intervention. Conclusion: Bipolar radiofrequency track cautery was feasible and safe during percutaneous image-guided abdominal biopsy procedures. IRB approval: MBG 2022P002277 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial and temporal dynamics of daily ultraviolet index (UVI) for a period of 18 years (2004–2022) over the Indian state of Kerala were statistically characterised in the study. The UVI measurements used for the study were derived from the ultraviolet-B (UVB) irradiance measured by the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) of the AURA satellite and classified into different severity levels for analysis. Basic statistics of daily, monthly and seasonal UVI as well as Mann-Kendall (MK) statistical trend characteristics and the rate of change of daily UVI using Theil-Sen's slope test were also evaluated. A higher variability of UVI characteristics was observed in the Kerala region, and more than 79% of the measurements fell into the categories of very high and extreme UVI values, which suggests the need of implementation of appropriate measures to reduce health risks. Although the UVI measured during the study period shows a slight decrease, most of the data show a seasonal variation with undulating low and peak values. Higher UVI are observed during the months of March, April and September. The region also has higher UVI during the southwest monsoon (SWM) and summer seasons. Although Kerala region as a single whole unit, UVI show a non-significant decreasing trend (-0.83), the MK test revealed the increasing and decreasing trends of UVI ranging from -1.96 to 0.41 facilitated the delineation of areas (domains) where UVI are increasing or decreasing. The domain of UVI increase occupies the central and southern (S) parts, and the domains of decrease cover the northern (N) and S parts of the Kerala region. The rate of change of daily UVI in domain of increase and decrease shows an average rate of 0.34 × 10−5 day−1 and −2 × 10−5 day−1, respectively. The parameters (rainfall, air temperature, cloud optical depth (COD) and solar zenith angle (SZA)) that affect the strength of UV rays reaching the surface indicate that a cloud-free atmosphere or low thickness clouds prevails in the Kerala region. Overall, the study results indicate the need for regular monitoring of UVI in the study area and also suggest appropriate campaigns to disseminate information and precautions for prolonged UVI exposure to reduce the adverse health effects, since the study area has a high population density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ideal blood biomarker for stroke should provide reliable results, enable fast diagnosis, and be readily accessible for practical use. Neuron-specific enolase (NSE), an enzyme released after neuronal damage, has been studied as a marker for brain injury, including cerebral infarction. However, different methodologies and limited sample sizes have restricted the applicability of any potential findings. This work aims to determine whether NSE levels at Emergency Department (ED) admission correlate with stroke severity, infarcted brain volume, functional outcome, and/or death rates. A systematic literature review was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Each reviewer independently assessed all published studies identified as potentially relevant. All relevant original observational studies (cohort, case–control, and cross-sectional studies) were included. Eleven studies (1398 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Among these, six studies reported a significant correlation between NSE levels and stroke severity, while only one found no association. Four studies indicated a positive relationship between infarcted brain volume assessed by imaging and NSE levels, in contrast to the findings of only one study. Four studies identified an association related to functional outcome and death rates, while three others did not reach statistical significance in their findings. These data highlight that NSE levels at ED admissions proved to be a promising tool for predicting the outcome of ischemic stroke patients in most studies. However, they presented high discrepancies and low robustness. Therefore, further research is necessary to establish and define the role of NSE in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is a growing concern worldwide. Indisputably, continuous anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) increasingly impact ecosystems, human life, and agricultural production. Strategies for climate change impact mitigation are as necessary as strategies for forest preservation, so these may continue acting as essential ecosystems which capture atmospheric carbon dioxide CO2. This study has a twofold objective. First, to analyze the primary CO2 emissions in Mato Grosso state soybean cultivation, one of the leading products of Brazilian agribusiness chains. Second, to determine the carbon sequestration potential in the different biomes of the states' macro-regions and check if the biomes' forested areas can mitigate GHG by neutralizing soy activity emissions, as mandated by local environmental laws. We collect soybean production data from around Mato Grosso, computing the crop areas, macro-regions, and biomes. The emissions of soybean production were calculated and compared with the carbon sequestration potential of the biomes without agricultural activities. The biomes and forest areas correspond to the preserved area by the Brazilian environmental preservation law. The results indicated that carbon sequestration by the biome areas was higher than CO2 emissions caused by anthropogenic activities during soybean cultivation and that environmental laws sufficed to mitigate such emissions. Soybean farmers must cooperate in adopting low-carbon agricultural practices, preserving the legal areas for future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper defines the unit Burr XII autoregressive moving average (UBXII-ARMA) model for continuous random variables in the unit interval, where any quantile can be modeled by a dynamic structure including autoregressive and moving average terms, time-varying regressors, and a link function. Our main motivation is to analyze the time series of the proportion of stored hydroelectric energy in Southeast Brazil and even identify a crisis period with lower water levels. We consider the conditional maximum likelihood method for parameter estimation, obtain closed-form expressions for the conditional score function, and conduct simulation studies to evaluate the accuracy of the estimators and estimated coverage rates of the parameters' asymptotic confidence intervals. We discuss the goodness-of-fit assessment and forecasting for the new model. Our forecasts of the proportion of the stored energy outperformed those obtained from the Kumaraswamy autoregressive moving average and beta autoregressive moving average models. Furthermore, only the UBXII-ARMA detected a significant effect of lower water levels before 2002 and after 2013. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocelluloses are highly interesting structures due to a variety of inherent properties, such as high surface area and porosity; hence, there is a need to investigate new sources of raw materials for their production. From this perspective, this paper presents a study on the obtainment of nanocelluloses from the cashew apple bagasse by evaluating the influence of the biomass pretreatment on the properties of the obtained structures. The cashew apple bagasse (CAB) was previously submitted to alkaline and acid–alkali pretreatments and the solid named CAB-PTA and CAB-PT-HA, respectively. The nanocellulosic fractions were obtained by hydrolysis using sulfuric acid combined with an ultrasonic treatment under different reaction times (1 h and 5 h). The highest nanocellulose yield was achieved using CAB-PT-HA, and the nanocrystals were rod-shaped and presented diameters of 30 to 40 nm. In the production of nanocelluloses using CAB-PTA, reaction time influenced the shape and size of the nanostructures, and the chemical composition analysis indicated the presence of residual lignin in those structures, which showed higher thermal stability. All obtained nanocelluloses presented zeta potentials greater than 30 mV in absolute values, indicating stable suspensions. Thus, this study can confirm the feasibility of the use of CAB as a novel renewable source for producing cellulose nanocrystals that possess great potential to be used as valuable biomaterials to this end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to characterize the chemical composition and investigate the antinociceptive effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of Passiflora cincinnata leaves (HEPCL) in different animal models of nociception. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as orientin, rutin, vitexin, quercetin, apigenin, epicatechin, catechin, and gallic acid in the chemical of the chemical composition of the extract. The oral administration of HEPCL induced significant analgesia in different nociception models, including acetic acid-induced abdominal contortions, licking response induced by formalin, capsaicin, and glutamate, hot-plate test, tail-flick test, and mechanical nociception, which suggests that the extract components might act through multiple antinociceptive mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the purpose of understanding the molecular processes triggered during callus formation in macaw palm, the expression of seven genes potentially involved in this process, identified in previous studies and from the literature, was investigated by RT-qPCR. In addition, in situ hybridization of the SERK gene was performed. Leaf tissues from adult plants from two macaw palm accession were inoculated in a medium combined with Picloram at a concentration of 450 μM to induce callus. The expression analysis was performed from leaf samples from two accessions of different origins (Municipalities of Tiros, MG, and Buriti Vermelho, DF, Brazil), which are characterized as non-responsive (NR) and responsive (R), respectively. The material was collected before callus induction (0 DAI, initial day) and 120 days after callus induction (120 DAI). Genes related to development (SERK, OASA, EF1, ANN1) and stress (LEA, CAT2, and MDAR5) were evaluated. The results obtained showed that all the genes involved with the development had their expressions downregulated at 0 DAI when the accession R was compared with the accession NR. On the other hand, it was possible to observe that these genes were upregulated at 120 DAI. The LEA stress gene showed a tendency to increase expression in the NR accession, while the R accession showed decreased expression and the CAT2 and MDAR5 genes showed upregulation in both accessions. In situ hybridization showed SERK transcripts in the vascular bundles, indicating the expression of SERK in this region, in addition to its expression in calluses. The results obtained in this study support our hypothesis that the regulation of genes involved in the control of oxidative stress and development is crucial for the formation of calluses in macaw palm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pentavalent and poliomyelitis vaccines are provided to children through the National Immunization Program in Brazil. For the last few years, this program has been responsible for eradication of various diseases in the country. To describe the vaccination coverage of the pentavalent vaccine and the polio vaccine in Brazil from 2013 to 2022. This is a retrospective and descriptive study with a time series component in which we analyzed vaccination coverage rates of pentavalent and poliomyelitis in the national vaccination program of Brazil from 2013 to 2022. The collected data were arranged in spreadsheets, analyzed, and presented graphically. In general, the coverage of the poliomyelitis and pentavalent vaccines has declined in all regions of Brazil, with significant differences each year. Although there has been a decrease in vaccination coverage in all regions and states, the most affected regions are the North and Northeast. There has been a significant decrease in polio and pentavalent vaccine coverage in recent years, and the rate of decrease differs in different parts of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectinases are a complex group of enzymes that degrade pectic substances. We produced pectinases efficiently using wastes/agro-industrial products through submerged fermentation (SC) and solid-state fermentation (SSC), making the production cheaper. Passion fruit peel was the best inducer of pectinase production by Aspergillus japonicus during SSC. The biochemical characterization of the pectinase showed that the best pH and temperature for pectinase activity were pH 4.0 and 60 °C. The stability of pectinase was evaluated at different pH, and the enzyme was observed to be stable for 4 h at all tested pH, and maintained 88%, 84%, and 72% of its activity at pH 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0, respectively, after 24 h. A. japonicus pectinase was superior to the commercial pectinase (Pectinex) in clarification of almost all the fruits tested. Pectinase application achieved the best clarification in mango (Haden) pulps (85.56%), whereas Pectinex only clarified 50.89%. Moreover, in apple (Argentina), A. japonicus pectinase showed 66.32% clarification, whereas Pectinex only showed 12.67% clarification. Furthermore, in apple (Europe), banana "da terra", mango (Palmer), and white guava, A. japonicus pectinase showed 52.59%, 49.04%, 46.7%, and 46.4% clarification, respectively, whereas Pectinex showed lower or significantly similar results with 13.34%, 38.29%, 49.3%, and 33.6% clarification, for the same pulps, respectively. A. japonicus pectinases have properties that enable them to efficiently clarify various types of juices. Additionally, their production is inexpensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The behavior of patients undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) has been widely investigated to better understand their attitudes and to formulate effective advisory strategies. Although these elements have been studied separately, the magnitude of these behaviors still needs to be determined from a combined factors approach. This study aimed to identify the lifestyle patterns of patients who underwent MBS 5 or more years ago. Methods: In this observational study, 123 patients who underwent MBS at least 5 years ago were included. Anthropometric data, sociodemographic profile, dietary intake, physical activity level, sleeping, smoking, and alcohol consumption were collected for all participants. Lifestyle pattern was evaluated using principal component analysis (PCA) and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) index was applied to evaluate data factorability. Results: PCA identified two patterns of behavior adopted by the participants in the late postoperative (PO) period (more than 5 years PO) of MBS. In the first pattern, a positive correlation was found between consumption of ultra-processed foods (r = 0.459), risky consumption of alcoholic beverages (r = 0.630), and tobacco use (r = 0.584). In the second, a positive correlation was observed between the consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods (r = 0.692) and more sleep time per day (r = 0.654). Conclusion: After 5 years of PO, combined behavior analysis revealed healthy and unhealthy lifestyle patterns, which points to the relevance of permanent clinical follow-up of these patients to ensure the best health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Clove volatile oil (CVO) and its major compound, eugenol (EUG), have anxiolytic effects, but their clinical use has been impaired due to their low bioavailability. Thus, their encapsulation in nanosystems can be an alternative to overcome these limitations. Objectives This work aims to prepare, characterize and study the anxiolytic potential of CVO loaded-nanoemulsions (CVONE) against anxious-like behavior in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Methods The CVO-NE was prepared using Agaricus blazei Murill polysaccharides as stabilizing agent. The drug-excipient interactions were performed, as well as colloidal characterization of CVO-NE and empty nanoemulsion (B-NE). The acute toxicity and potential anxiolytic activity of CVO, EUG, CVO-NE and B-NE against adult zebrafish models were determined. Results CVO, EUG, CVO-NE and B-NE presented low acute toxicity, reduced the locomotor activity and anxious-like behavior of the zebrafish at 4 -- 20 mg kg--1. CVO-NE reduced the anxious-like behavior of adult zebrafish without affecting their locomotor activity. In addition, it was demonstrated that anxiolytic activity of CVO, EUG and CVO-NE is linked to the involvement of GABAergic pathway. Conclusion Therefore, this study demonstrates the anxiolytic effect of CVO, in addition to providing a new nanoformulation for its administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NTRK1, 2, and 3 fusions are important therapeutic targets for NSCLC patients, but their prevalence in South American admixed populations needs to be better explored. NTRK fusion detection in small biopsies is a challenge, and distinct methodologies are used, such as RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS), immunohistochemistry, and RNA-based nCounter. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and concordance of positive samples for NTRK fusions using a custom nCounter assay in a real-world scenario of a single institution in Brazil. Out of 147 NSCLC patients, 12 (8.2%) cases depicted pan-NTRK positivity by IHC. Due to the absence of biological material, RNA-based NGS and/or nCounter could be performed in six of the 12 IHC-positive cases (50%). We found one case exhibiting an NTRK1 fusion and another an NTRK3 gene fusion by both RNA-based NGS and nCounter techniques. Both NTRK fusions were detected in patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, with no history of tobacco consumption. Moreover, no concomitant EGFR, KRAS, and ALK gene alterations were detected in NTRK-positive patients. The concordance rate between IHC and RNA-based NGS was 33.4%, and between immunohistochemistry and nCounter was 40%. Our findings indicate that NTRK fusions in Brazilian NSCLC patients are relatively rare (1.3%), and RNA-based nCounter methodology is a suitable approach for NRTK fusion identification in small biopsies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]