Search

Sulfite oxidase deficiencies, either caused by deficiency of the apoenzyme or the molybdenum cofactor, and ethylmalonic encephalopathy are inherited disorders that impact sulfur metabolism. These patients present with severe neurodeterioration accompanied by cerebral cortex and cerebellum abnormalities, and high thiosulfate levels in plasma and tissues, including the brain. We aimed to clarify the mechanisms of such abnormalities, so we assessed the ex vivo effects of thiosulfate administration on energetic status and oxidative stress markers in cortical and cerebellar tissues of newborn rats. Thiosulfate (0.5 µmol/g) or PBS (vehicle) was injected into the fourth ventricle of rat pups. Thirty minutes after the injection, animals were euthanized and the brain structures were utilized for the experiments. Our data showed that thiosulfate decreased the reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities in the cortical structure. Thiosulfate also increased DCFH oxidation, hydrogen peroxide generation and glutathione reductase activity. In the cerebellum, thiosulfate reduced SOD and glutathione peroxidase activities but increased GST and CAT activities as well as DCFH oxidation. Regarding energy metabolism, thiosulfate specifically decreased complex IV activity in the cortex, whereas it increased cerebellar complex I and creatine kinase activities, indicating bioenergetic disturbances. The results suggest that the accumulation of thiosulfate causing redox disruption and bioenergetic alterations has a prominent role in the pathogenesis of sulfur metabolism deficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite evidence in previous literature regarding vaccine safety, more data were needed as concerns about COVID-19 vaccines were raised, particularly regarding their effects on female fertility, exacerbated by the widespread dissemination of information without scientific evidence. This study aims to answer the question: does COVID-19 vaccination have any impact on female fertility at a population level. In this ecological study, vaccination rates against COVID-19 and birth rates in 100 different countries were correlated. In addition, the correlation between these two rates of interest and the Gini index were also analyzed. Data were retrieved from the World Population Prospects document produced by the Population Division of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, from the World Health Organization (WHO) website, and from the World Bank website. Statistical analyses were conducted using the ANOVA test, and Pearson's correlation using the JASP software. For all analyses, results were considered significant if P < 0.05. In evaluating the trend of the birth rate in the countries included in the study, a persistent reduction of approximately 1.66% per year was observed between 2010 and 2022. From 2019 to 2022, the decline was close to 5%, resulting in an annual average reduction of 1.68%, which is similar to previous years. Among the selected countries, until December 2021, the average number of vaccine doses administered was 137 per 100 inhabitants. There was no observed correlation between the number of vaccine doses administered in different countries and the variation in the birth rate per thousand inhabitants between 2019 and 2022 (Pearson's r = 0.075; P = 0.455). A correlation was found between the Gini index and the birth rate, considering the base year of 2022, with a Pearson's r value of 0.376 (P < 0.01). This correlation remained consistent for all other years. A negative correlation was found between vaccine doses and the Gini index, with a Pearson's r value of -0.219 (P = 0.040). The findings of this article, as well as previous scientific evidence, do not identify any correlation between COVID-19 vaccines and female fertility issues. The associations analyzed in this study indicate the safety of vaccines for reproductive health and contribute to reducing vaccine hesitancy among the population of childbearing age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine-disrupting compounds such as 4-nonylphenol pose significant societal and environmental challenges due to their toxicity and estrogenic properties, adversely impacting human health, wildlife, and aquatic ecosystems. The complexity of 4-nonylphenol environmental behavior, its transport mechanisms, and the challenges in mitigating its impact through adsorption processes are critical. Here we review 4-nonylphenol contamination with focus on remediation by adsorption. We found that biofilms can accumulate 4-nonylphenol in aquatic environments; adsorption equilibrium in soils is influenced by temperature; and microplastics facilitate the transport of 4-nonylphenol through ecosystems. We present effective materials for 4-nonylphenol removal, including graphene oxides, silica, zeolites, and activated carbons. We analyze key variables influencing adsorption efficiency, offering a comprehensive database and insights into optimal removal strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conceptual parsimony is widely applied to formulate living area hypotheses regarding isotopic tracking of fish. Parsimony, conceptually or not, already helps researchers to make decisions about the most likely sequences of isotopic-inferred movements for each fish individually. Beyond the individual hypotheses, the parsimony analysis (PA) was also applied here to synthesize collective data on strontium isotopic fractions in otoliths and assess the migratory routes of five fish species. The isotopic "signatures" of 26 environments of the Verde River, its tributaries, and the Paraná River in Brazil were used to track the isotopic histories contained in the otoliths. The indications of the presence or absence of each individual in each area were used as data input in the parsimony analysis of migratory routes (PAMRs), which returned cladograms grouping the living areas paired by the most important routes, a new analytical combination. The PAMRs separated the living areas into groups of environments that coincide with the compartmentalization of the Verde River basin and its connectivity, including the manual transposition of some specimens. A frequentist index allowed us to compare the intensity of manual transposition with the intensity of active migratory routes. This study case was directly applied to evaluate conservation measures for migratory ichthyofauna, but the conceptual and methodological tools are replicable for summarizing the data for migratory routes of any animal datasets containing individual life stories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oceanic-atmospheric phenomena can change the patterns of rainfall (R) and potential evapotranspiration (ET0) and, therefore, the water availability of a location, resulting in significant effects on agricultural activity. This study evaluated the trend of the climatic water budget (W) of a river basin in the Brazilian semiarid region, the Pajeú river basin, as a function of variations in R and ET0 resulting from changes in climate patterns and atmospheric circulation systems. For this, data series of 27 rain gauge and 8 complete weather stations with different time intervals were used (i.e., a maximum range of 1912 to 2019, 108 years). Data from 8 complete weather stations were used to estimate ET0, and to calibrate and validate methods for estimating incident solar radiation (Rs) and ET0, aiming to fill in gaps in the data series. Seasonal and cyclical trends for R, ET0 and W were evaluated on ten timescales, using the Mann–Kendall test, Sen Slope test, Pettitt test and the Seasonal Trend decomposition using Loess. The timescales were defined based on an annual basis, in the seasons, dry and rainy periods, and during the agricultural calendar of three important crops in the region. Pearson correlation method was applied to identify the effects of atmospheric circulation systems on the values of R, ET0, and W from teleconnection indices for the ten timescales. Significant positive trends of up to + 3.71 mm year−1 for ET0, and negative trends up to -3.48 mm year−1 for W were found. The Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) index and El Niño 1 + 2 (N12) index both showed a correlation with R, ET0 and W only for the annual period. The results indicate the need to adapt the planting times of the main agricultural crops in the region, as well as to reduce water use in irrigated areas, as a strategy for water and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, all computers have some degree of usable parallelism. Modern computers are explicitly equipped with hardware support for parallelism, such as multiple nodes, multicores, multiple CPUs, and accelerators. At the same time, the Cloud Continuum has become a viable platform for running parallel applications. Building software for these parallel and distributed platforms can be challenging due to the numerous considerations programmers must make during the development process. With this in mind, the high-performance computing literature proposed the concept of parallel patterns to hide some complexities. However, there are no patterns that address the design and creation of adaptive applications. Taking the compute continuum era in mind, we present how adaptability features can be explored within each parallel programming pattern, providing technical details on managing dynamic resources and handling changes in application behavior. In addition to this contribution, we also address practical implications by presenting some frameworks that can be used to implement adaptive applications and examples of using them with the proposed patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital watermarking conceals data within host images to safeguard against unauthorized distribution of multimedia content. It offers content protection and anti-piracy measures, maintaining content quality by embedding invisible information. This process involves inserting and extracting watermarks. We introduce a robust algorithm, combining discrete Haar wavelet transform (DHWT) and discrete cosine transform (DCT), yielding effective watermarking with high resistance to extraction without data loss. This combination of transforms represents a hybrid approach that we call HyDHWCT in this work. Evaluations reveal our approach's superior accuracy compared to state-of-the-art methods. Our hardware watermarking solution excels in robustness and energy efficiency, even under diverse attack scenarios. FPGA and ASIC assessments show our HyDHWCT's exceptional area and power performance, with the algorithm achieving a lossless watermark extraction (NC = 1), outperforming prior methods in accuracy-quality, and energy-, and area-savings (approximately 2.621 × and 1.174 × , respectively). Accuracy-quality results confirm a perfect extraction rate (NC = 1), ensuring 100% accuracy in watermark extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the genome sequence and organization and evidence of persistence of a new picorna-like virus infecting the flatworm Stenostomum leucops. The complete genome sequence belongs to a virus with a positive single-stranded RNA genome with two open reading frames (ORFs) flanked by untranslated regions and a polyadenylated C-terminus. The ORFs encode proteins with conserved motifs typical of members of the order Picornavirales. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed membership in this viral order, and it was found to be closely related to viruses found in Biomphalaria (Mollusca) in France and a virus detected in a metagenomic analysis of water sources from the USA, suggesting widespread distribution. RT-PCR analysis revealed that this virus can be detected in a laboratory-grown worm isolate for at least five years, suggesting persistent infection. However, no apparent deleterious effects were observed in the worms in culture, suggesting a possible commensal relationship between the virus and the worms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to fabricate and characterize fibers based on germinated and non-germinated wheat starches incorporated with titanium dioxide (TiO2). Fibers made from germinated wheat starch (20% and 30%, w/v) and non-germinated wheat starch (20% and 30%, w/v), encapsulated with TiO2 at concentrations of 0%, 3%, and 5% (w/v), were fabricated by electrospinning. The polymeric solutions were evaluated for electrical conductivity and rheology. Fibers were characterized by morphology, size distribution, thermogravimetric analysis, and infrared spectra. The electrical conductivity of the polymeric solutions increased with TiO2 concentration. Rheological parameters showed non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behavior. The fibers exhibited homogeneous and cylindrical morphology. TiO2 addition reduced the diameter of the fibers compared to the fibers without this compound and altered their thermal stability. Infrared spectra indicated interactions between both starches and TiO2. The results demonstrate the feasibility of fabrication fibers from germinated and non-germinated wheat starches with similar amylose content (30.2% and 29.5%, respectively) incorporating TiO2, as they exhibited comparable behavior. This application could enhance the value of germinated wheat starch, which typically has low economic value. Further research is needed to explore these starch fibers for active food packaging applications as ethylene absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paratomy is an asexual reproductive process that occurs in annelids, flatworms and other groups. During this process, anterior structures are formed in the middle of the body, giving rise to segmented organisms, each segment being called a zooid. Once formed, the zooids detach and form new organisms. Using RNAseq of worms prior to zooid formation and with two zooids, we search for genes that are differentially expressed and may be related to the control of this process in the flatworm Stenostomum leucops. Several signaling pathways showed differential expression, including MAPK/ERK, PI3K-Akt, Wnt, TGFb, mTOR, FoxO and others. Forty-five genes were found to be particularly significant because they are differentially expressed and play an important role in the development of other flatworms. These include ERK, MKP, JNK, PI3K, PTEN, β -catenin, FoxO, Sufu, GH and others. The results suggest some similarities in gene regulation between paratomy and regeneration observed in other flatworms after fission or amputation. In worms without zooids, pathways required for cell proliferation, differentiation of cells into multiple cell lineages and determination of the body axis are activated. In worms with 2 zooids, genes involved in cell growth and apoptosis are activated. Activation of genes involved in neoblast proliferation and maintenance appears to occur at both stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the effect of a remote handgrip contraction during wide-pulse high-frequency (WPHF) neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on the magnitude of extra torque, progressive increase in torque during stimulation, and estimates of the persistent inward current (PIC) contribution to motoneuron firing in the plantar flexors. Methods: Ten participants performed triangular shaped contractions to 20% of maximal plantar flexion torque before and after WPHF NMES with and without a handgrip contraction, and control conditions. Extra torque, the relative difference between the initial and final torque during stimulation, and sustained electromyographic (EMG) activity were assessed. High-density EMG was recorded during triangular shaped contractions to calculate ∆F, an estimate of PIC contribution to motoneuron firing, and its variation before vs after the intervention referred to as ∆F change score. Results: While extra torque was not significantly increased with remote contraction (WPHF + remote) vs WPHF (+ 37 ± 63%, p = 0.112), sustained EMG activity was higher in this condition than WPHF (+ 3.9 ± 4.3% MVC EMG, p = 0.017). Moreover, ∆F was greater (+ 0.35 ± 0.30 Hz) with WPHF + remote than control (+ 0.03 ± 0.1 Hz, p = 0.028). A positive correlation was found between ∆F change score and extra torque in the WPHF + remote (r = 0.862, p = 0.006). Discussion: The findings suggest that the addition of remote muscle contraction to WPHF NMES enhances the central contribution to torque production, which may be related to an increased PIC contribution to motoneuron firing. Gaining a better understanding of these mechanisms should enable NMES intervention optimization in clinical and rehabilitation settings, improving neuromuscular function in clinical populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum. Neurological infection occurs due to the parasite's ability to cross the blood–brain barrier. It is known that dogs can remain infected with a subclinical infection for life, potentially acting as reservoirs for L. infantum when bitten by sandflies. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of Leishmania spp. in the brains of dogs from the metropolitan region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, without a history of neurological disease but residing in an endemic area for L. infantum. A total of 200 samples, from 2022 to 2023, were evaluated using conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) with the primers Leishmini-F GGKAGGGGCGTTCTGC and Leishmini-R STATWTTACACCAACCCC, aiming to amplify a product of 120 base pairs for Leishmania spp. To identify the species, a multiplex PCR was used, differentiating L. braziliensis (127 bp), L. amazonensis (100 bp), and L. infantum (60 bp), with the molecular target being the conserved region of the kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) minicircle, specific to Leishmania spp. Of the 200 samples evaluated, 26.5% (53/200) tested positive in the conventional PCR reaction for Leishmania spp., with the PCR multiplex the only species detected was Leishmania infantum. The average age of the positive animals was 5.08 years, with 47.2% being females and 52.8% being males; among these, mixed-breed dogs were the most predominant, representing 43.4% of the total. Clinical signs varied: hepatomegaly in two dogs, pronounced neutrophilic hepatitis in one, splenomegaly in one with lymphoid hyperplasia, and glomerulonephritis and nephritis in two animals. Mild anemia and thrombocytopenia were found in eight, with pale mucous membranes in three, and diffuse alveolar edema in one case. Notable pathological findings included suspected distemper in one animal and lymphoplasmacytic meningitis in another. Histopathological findings revealed alveolar edema and acute renal failure. A third dog exhibited bilateral hydrocephalus and diffuse edema in the brain. Additional changes, such as mild inflammatory infiltrate and slight vacuolar degeneration, were observed in 11.3% of the analyzed brains. There was no clinical suspicion of leishmaniasis in any of the studied cases. Therefore, the detection of L. infantum DNA in the brains of dogs suggests that animals with subclinical infection may play a crucial role in the spread of leishmaniasis, and infection by Leishmania spp. should be considered as a differential diagnosis for neurological disease in endemic areas for the protozoan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of ventricular failure and pulmonary edema is associated with a worse prognosis in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We aimed to evaluate the prognostic ability of a novel classification combining lung ultrasound (LUS) and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) velocity time integral (VTI) in patients with STEMI. LUS and LVOT-VTI were performed within 24 h of admission in STEMI patients. A LUS combined with LVOT-VTI (LUV) classification was developed based on LUS with < or ≥ 3 positive zone scans, combined with LVOT-VTI > or ≤ 14. Patients were classified as A (< 3zones/ > 14 cm VTI), B (≥ 3zones/ > 14 cm VTI), C (< 3zones/ ≤ 14 cm VTI) and D (≥ 3zones/ ≤ 14 cm VTI). Primary outcome was occurrence of in-hospital mortality. Development of cardiogenic shock (CS) within 24 h was also assessed. A total of 308 patients were included. Overall in-hospital mortality was 8.8%, while mortality for LUV A, B, C, and D was 0%, 3%, 12%, and 45%, respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) for predicting in-hospital mortality was 0.915. Moreover, after exclusion of patients admitted in Killip IV, at each increasing degree of LUV, a higher proportion of patients developed CS within 24 h: LUV A = 0.0%, LUV B 5%, LUV C = 12.5% and LUV D = 30.8% (p < 0.0001). The AUC for predicting CS was 0.908 (p < 0.001). In a cohort of STEMI patients, LUV provided to be an excellent method for prediction of in-hospital mortality and development of CS. LUV classification is a fast, non-invasive and very user-friendly ultrasonographic evaluation method to stratify the risk of mortality and CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The debranning process, at an industrial scale, was applied to grains of two wheat cultivars to determine its effect on Fusarium mycotoxin content and antioxidant activity. Grain samples from the BRS Marcante and BRS Reponte wheat cultivars, naturally contaminated by Fusarium, were used in the study. The dry wheat samples were processed on the polisher once or twice and evaluated by hardness index, chemical composition (moisture, protein, and ash), deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZON) levels, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. In the BRS Marcante cultivar, the debranning process only slightly reduced the DON and ZON contents in whole-wheat flours compared with the previous cleaning treatment (no-debranned). In the BRS Reponte cultivar, the DON concentration decreased by 36% at a debranning ratio of 5%, obtained by polishing, compared with prior cleaning treatment (no-debranned). In addition, the polishing reduced the ZON level by 56% compared with the cleaned wheat. The debranning process did not reduce the antioxidant capacity. Therefore, debranning is a suitable technology to obtain safer and healthier food by minimizing the mycotoxin content and retaining antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus is the etiologic agent of many nosocomial infections, and its biofilm is frequently isolated from medical devices. Moreover, the dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains from this pathogen, such as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, is a worldwide public health issue. The inhibition of biofilm formation can be used as a strategy to weaken bacterial resistance. Taking that into account, we analysed the ability of marine sponge-associated bacteria to produce antibiofilm molecules, and we found that marine Priestia sp., isolated from marine sponge Scopalina sp. collected on the Brazilian coast, secretes proteins that impair biofilm development from S. aureus. Partially purified proteins (PPP) secreted after 24 hours of bacterial growth promoted a 92% biofilm mass reduction and 4.0 µg/dL was the minimum concentration to significantly inhibit biofilm formation. This reduction was visually confirmed by light microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, biochemical assays showed that the antibiofilm activity of PPP was reduced by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and 1,10 phenanthroline (PHEN), while it was stimulated by zinc ions, suggesting an active metallopeptidase in PPP. This result agrees with mass spectrometry (MS) identification, which indicated the presence of a metallopeptidase from the M28 family. Additionally, whole-genome sequencing analysis of Priestia sp. shows that gene ywad, a metallopeptidase-encoding gene, was present. Therefore, the results presented herein indicate that PPP secreted by the marine Priestia sp. can be explored as a potential antibiofilm agent and help to treat chronic infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti is an important vector of arboviruses, including dengue, chikungunya and Zika. The application of synthetic insecticides is a frequently used strategy to control this insect. Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide that was widely used in Brazil in the 1980s and 1990s to control the adult form of A. aegypti. In situations where resistance to currently used insecticides is detected, the use of malathion may be resumed as a control measure. Many studies have confirmed resistance to malathion, however, comparative studies of differential gene expression of the entire transcriptome of resistant and susceptible insects are scarce. Therefore, understanding the molecular basis of resistance to this insecticide in this species is extremely important. In this paper, we present the first transcriptomic description of susceptible and resistant strains of A. aegypti challenged with malathion. Guided transcriptome assembly resulted in 39,904 transcripts, where 2133 differentially expressed transcripts were detected, and three were validated by RT-qPCR. Enrichment analysis for these identified transcripts resulted in 13 significant pathways (padj < 0.05), 8 associated with down-regulated and 5 with up-regulated transcripts in treated resistant insects. It was possible to divide the transcripts according to the mechanism of action into three main groups: (i) genes involved in detoxification metabolic pathways; (ii) genes of proteins located in the membrane/extracellular region; and (iii) genes related to DNA integration/function. These results are important in advancing knowledge of genes related to resistance mechanisms in this insect, enabling the development of effective technologies and strategies for managing insecticide resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthamoeba spp. emerged as a clinically important pathogen related to amoebic keratitis. It is among the main causes of corneal transplantation and vision loss in ophthalmology. The treatment protocols have a low cure rate, high toxicity, and need for drug combination. Transition metal compounds have shown promising antiprotozoal effects. This study evaluates the amoebicidal activity of copper(II) coordination compounds in combination with chlorhexidine and the cytotoxicity to topical ocular application. These copper(II) coordination compounds were screened against Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites (ATCC 50492). The cytotoxicity on rabbit corneal cell line (ATCC—CCL 60) was performed. The compounds showed high amoebicidal potential, with inhibition of trophozoite viability above 80%. The Cp12 and Cp13 compounds showed Minimal Inhibitory Amoebicidal Concentration (MIAC) at 200 µM and mean inhibitory concentration (IC50) values lower than 10 µM. Against the cysts, Cp12 showed a reduction in viability (48%) in the longest incubation period. A synergistic effect for Cp12 with chlorhexidine was observed. The compounds have a dose-dependent effect against rabbit corneal cells. Compound Cp12 has potential for future application in developing ophthalmic formulations against Acanthamoeba keratitis and its use in multipurpose solutions is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of flexible intensive care unit (ICU) visitation on the 1-year prevalence of post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression symptoms among family members of critically ill patients. Methods: This is a long-term outcome analysis of a cluster-crossover randomized clinical trial that evaluated a flexible visitation model in the ICU (12 h/day) compared to a restrictive visitation model (median 1.5 h/day) in 36 Brazilian ICUs. In this analysis, family members were assessed 12 months after patient discharge from the ICU for the following outcomes: post-traumatic stress symptoms measured by the Impact Event Scale-6 and anxiety and depression symptoms measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results: A total of 519 family members were analyzed (288 in the flexible visitation group and 231 in the restrictive visitation group). Three-hundred sixty-nine (71.1%) were women, and the mean age was 46.6 years. Compared to family members in the restrictive visitation group, family members in the flexible visitation group had a significantly lower prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms (21% vs. 30.5%; adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR], 0.91; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–0.98; p = 0.01). The prevalence of anxiety (28.9% vs. 33.2%; aPR 0.93; 95% CI 0.72–1.21; p = 0.59) and depression symptoms (19.2% vs. 25%; aPR, 0.78; 95% CI 0.60–1.02; p = 0.07) did not differ significantly between the groups. Conclusion: Flexible ICU visitation, compared to the restrictive visitation, was associated with a significant reduction in the 1-year prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms in family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the adsorption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on microplastics (MPs) has attracted much attention as to how microplastics can act as carriers of these pollutants. Polyurethane (PU) is one of the MPs found in aquatic environments, containing different functional groups it can interact with polar and nonpolar molecules. PAH derivatives (dPAHs) present different properties and thus can be adsorbed by different interactions; thus, this study investigated the adsorption of fluorene (FLN), dibenzothiophene (DBT), dibenzofuran (DBF), and carbazole (CBZ) onto PU MP. The Langmuir, Freundlich, and BET isotherm models were examined, and the BET model best fitted. The adsorption was a nonspontaneous process, exothermic for mono- and multilayer formation for FLN, DBT, and CBZ, and endothermic for DBF monolayer formation. The adsorption monolayer was formed by van der Waals forces, H─bonding, and π─π interactions, while the formation of the multilayer can be explained by π─π and hydrophobic interactions. The pseudo-second-order model proved to be more consistent for the adsorption of dPAHs. The adsorption in artificial seawater shows no significant differences for the monolayer but favored the adsorption multilayer due to the salting-out effect. Due to the existence of several adsorption mechanisms, PU MP interacts with dPAHs in greater quantities when compared to a MP with a simpler structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For over a century, scholars have presented several proposals regarding the paint application tools used to create Levantine rock art. However, such proposals have largely rested on theoretical assumptions and inductive inferences that have not been rigorously tested. In this experimental investigation, we compiled these hypotheses and crafted 60 tools that were tested through systematic experiments to assess their performance and technical affordances for the creation of images with techno-visual features equivalent to those of the Levantine paintings. These experiments allowed us to obtain analytical parameters with independent validation, which were used as diagnostic criteria to analyse the rock art from nine sites located in eastern Spain. Results reveal that out of 60 tools, only 10 –five hair brushes, three plant brushes, and two feather brushes–afforded the production of images with techno-visual features highly similar to those of the archaeological paintings. Subsequently, we employed these tools to paint 10 full-size replicas of Levantine motifs, aiming to explore their potential role in the toolkit of prehistoric painters. Drawing on the data from both the systematic and the replicative experiments, and taking into account the level of labour investment required by the technical operations that permeate the production of the paint application tools, we suggest that Levantine technology was not based on an economic logic aimed at minimizing the costs associated with producing the images, but rather on a perspective where the priority was creating paintings with specific techno-visual qualities that reinforced the information transmitted through the graphic code. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brassicas have the potential to prevent chronic non-communicable diseases and it is proposed to evaluate the chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of broccoli, cabbage and extracts. The extracts were prepared and characterized and the antioxidant potential was evaluated against three radicals while the antimicrobial potential was analyzed using three techniques against four bacteria. The extracts have glucosinolates and phenolic compounds in their composition, and effectively inhibit the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical. The extracts of broccoli and cauliflower showed an inhibitory effect against hydroxyl radicals and nitric oxide. Disk diffusion showed that broccoli and cauliflower extract were active against three bacteria, while kale extract showed active halos for Gram-negative bacteria. Kale extract had an inhibitory effect Gram-positive bacteria, cauliflower extract inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. The cauliflower extract thus had a higher concentration of phenols, a strong antioxidant activity and promising results at a concentration of 100 mg/mL against S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with a poor prognosis. Polyphenols, known for their antioxidant and antitumor properties, may be potential therapeutic targets in GBM. Advances in nanomedicine have enabled the development of nanoparticles to improve the pharmacokinetics of polyphenols like tannic acid (TA). In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of 1.5% (w/w) TA-loaded zein-coated nanocapsules (NC-TA-ZN) on glioma cell lines (C6, U87MG). The cells were exposed to concentrations of 100, 125, 150 and 175 µg/mL for 72 h. NC-TA-ZN demonstrated cytotoxic effects, as evidenced by a significant reduction in cell viability (up to 47.10% in C6, 41.02% in U87MG) and cell biomass (up to 49.52% in C6, 66.65% in U87MG). It also reduced reactive oxygen species (up to 79.02% in C6, 60.77% in U87MG) and increased total sulfhydryl content (up to 97.37% in C6, 330.7% in U87MG). Additionally, it increased superoxide dismutase (up to 147.4% in C6, 341.4% in U87MG) and catalase activity (up to 287.6% in C6, 544.4% in U87MG). These results demonstrated the potential antioxidant effect of NC-TA-ZN. Lastly, NC-TA-ZN inhibited cell migration in C6 cells by 40% and 65% at 25 and 50 µg/mL, respectively. These results are significant given the relationship between oxidative stress and GBM development and progression, and suggest the potential of NC-TA-ZN as a therapeutic approach to GBM. Future studies will focus on understanding the mechanisms of cell death and the signaling pathways involved in the antiglioma effect elicited by nanoparticles of TA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysregulation of the immune system in individuals with Down syndrome is thought to play a major role in the pathophysiology of many clinical presentations. This natural history of disease study took a comprehensive evaluation of the prevalence of different immune related diagnoses in a cohort of 1299 patients with Down syndrome compared to a 2605 patient control cohort at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York, NY over the past 18 years. We conducted a stepwise analysis of the odds of receiving a diagnosis at the Chapter, Sub-chapter and Diagnosis level of the ICD-CM-10 code system. Individuals in our Down syndrome cohort had higher odds of a diagnosis with inflammatory and autoimmune presentations such as Alopecia areata (OR 6.06, p = 0.01), Other sepsis (OR 4.79, p < 0.001, Purpura and other hemorrhagic conditions (OR 2.31, p < 0.001), and Rosacea (OR 3.11, p < 0.001). They also presented with lower odds of a diagnosis of Herpesviral infection (OR 0.42, p = 0.01), and Viral warts (OR 0.51, p = 0.04). We posit that dysregulation of the immune system in individuals with Down syndrome has impact on infectious diseases, including lowering the incidence of viral disease and increasing its severity. Our data also suggests inflammation and autoimmune mediated diseases, in particular of the skin, are exacerbated in individuals with Down syndrome. Finally, there may be a need for greater clinical attention to non-emergent conditions within the Down syndrome patient population as those can also greatly affect quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) is an inherited disorder of amino acid metabolism biochemically characterized by the accumulation of glycine (Gly) predominantly in the brain. Affected patients usually manifest with neurological symptoms including hypotonia, seizures, epilepsy, lethargy, and coma, the pathophysiology of which is still not completely understood. Treatment is limited and based on lowering Gly levels aiming to reduce overstimulation of N-methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Mounting in vitro and in vivo animal and human evidence have recently suggested that excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and bioenergetics disruption induced by Gly are relevant mechanisms involved in the neuropathology of NKH. This brief review gives emphasis to the deleterious effects of Gly in the brain of patients and animal models of NKH that may offer perspectives for the development of novel adjuvant treatments for this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript presents a new report on the in vitro antimicrobial photo-inactivation of foodborne microorganisms (Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes) using tetra-cationic porphyrins. Isomeric tetra-cationic porphyrins (3MeTPyP, 4MeTPyP, 3PtTPyP, and 4PtTPyP) were tested, and antimicrobial activity assays were performed at specific photosensitizer concentrations under dark and white-light LED irradiation conditions. Among the tested bacterial strains, 4MeTPyP exhibited the highest efficiency, inhibiting bacterial growth within just 60 min at low concentrations (17.5 μM). The minimal inhibitory concentration of 4MeTPyP increased when reactive oxygen species scavengers were present, indicating the significant involvement of singlet oxygen species in the photooxidation mechanism. Furthermore, the checkerboard assay testing the association of 4MeTPyP showed an indifferent effect. Atomic force microscopy analyses and dynamic simulations were conducted to enhance our understanding of the interaction between this porphyrin and the strain's membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive non-native species (invasive species, henceforth) across all taxonomic groups are spreading globally, with numbers projected to continue growing in the future. It is difficult for governments and managers to handle this issue when the identity of invasive species or the areas of occurrence of biological invasions are not known. Here, we provide an updated list of invasive animals, plants and algae in Brazil that is fully integrated and based on the same criteria and lexicon to define invasive species across all plant and animal taxa and habitats. We list 444 invasive non-native species: 254 animals, 188 plants and 2 algae. Some of the invasive species have been present in Brazil since the beginning of the European colonization in the 1500 s, but the majority of first records in Brazil were made in the last century, with copious first records after the year 2000. The list of invasive species presented here represents the most comprehensive attempt thus far to catalog all invasive non-native species at a continental-scale for a megadiverse country. Brazil has published a national strategy with the objective of improving mechanisms and partnerships for invasive non-native species prevention, early detection and rapid response. We believe that the current list of invasive species will provide technical and scientific support for the implementation of effective measures in the management of biological invasions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The silkworm Bombyx mori L. converts plant protein into silk. In silk producing countries mulberry leaves are primarily used to feed silkworms, however, recent studies have shown that nutritional supplements in the diet improved the morphological parameters of larvae and cocoons. In the current paper we investigated the effects of whey protein dissolved in water on the larval development of B. mori, cocoon production, mechanical properties of silk threads, silk gland morphology, and mRNA expression of the L-fibroin and sericin-1 genes. The results showed that whey protein supplementation did not affect larval development, and the histological structure of the silk glands remained intact. The water group and whey protein 10% group yielded the highest efficiency of silk protein synthesis. Mechanical testing of silk threads demonstrated that supplementation with whey protein did not affect the quality. The groups fed with whey protein supplements showed similar expression of L-fibroin gene, and higher expression of the sericin-1 gene. Our findings suggest that whey protein does not adversely affect the silk glands and could serve as a basis to produce artificial food for the silkworm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with inactivated Lactobacillus plantarum for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Three treatments, in quintuplicate, were established: a control group, fish fed a diet without additives; LP group, fish fed a diet supplemented with live probiotic; and IP group, fish fed a diet supplemented with inactivated probiotic. Final weights (49.40 ± 3.15 g) and weight gains (38.20 ± 3.23 g) were increased in tilapia in the IP group. Feed conversion (1.32 ± 0.04) decreased significantly in the IP group. Haemato-biochemical parameters were significantly influenced by dietary supplementation. Erythrocyte count (262.74 ± 69.28 × 106 μL−1) was significantly low, while albumin (1.79 ± 1.12 g dL−1) and cholesterol (254.14 ± 98.49 mg dL−1) were high in the control group. Dietary supplementation modified the tilapia microbiome. Rhodobacter was abundant in fish intestines from the control and IP groups. Phreatobacter was abundant in the IP and LP groups, while Aurantimicrobium and Bosea were abundant in the LP group. Oleic acid (C18:1n9) was significantly increased in the LP (3.25 ± 0.49%) and IP (3.02 ± 0.30%) groups. Hexadecatrienoic acid (C16:3n4) was significantly increased (0.04 ± 0.01%) in the IP group, while Cis 11,14,17-eicosatrienoic acid (C20:3n3) (0.31 ± 0.03%) and adrenic acid (C22:4n6) (0.11 ± 0.02%) were significantly decreased in the LP group. Additionally, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were significantly increased (4.83 ± 0.35%) in the LP group compared to that in the control group. Collectively, these results indicate the potential of inactivated L. plantarum for use in commercial feed, leading to the conclusion that both inactivated and live L. plantarum can improve the Nile tilapia metabolism, altering haematological and biochemical markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past laboratory work has shown that exposure to similar peers who represent success in STEM (i.e., math-talented female peer role models) can bolster female college students' math performance and STEM experiences. What is less clear is how students at intersecting identities of gender, ethnicity, and math identification differ in their similarity perceptions of female peer role models (PRMs) as well as how the PRMs' ethnicity and background information (i.e., academic-related and personal-related) influences students' similarity perceptions. In the current work, Latina and White female PRMs gave two presentations in college Calculus classes over the course of one semester. After the second presentation students completed quantitative and qualitative measures to assess perceived similarity with the PRMs. Across both measures results showed that (1) students generally perceived themselves to be similar to PRMs, (2) students felt more academically than personally similar to PRMs, (3) when the PRMs' ethnicity matched the students' ethnicity the academic-personal similarity difference was smaller, and (4) depending on students' gender and level of math identification their similarity perceptions differed. Given PRM similarity has been shown to be a significant factor in the effectiveness of PRMs these findings emphasize the importance of considering students' intersecting identities and PRM background information when attempting to highlight similarity with PRMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, silver nanoparticles were in situ synthesized inside of the mesopores of SBA-15 type silica. The new strategy of synthesis was planned to obtain highly dispersed nanoparticles, strongly adhered to the matrix and maintaining the textural characteristics of the SBA-15. In order to attain this purpose, an ionic silsesquioxane was used to anchor an anionic complex that acts as a silver source for the nanoparticle synthesis. The material was characterized by X-ray diffraction, UV–Visible spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, thermogravimetric analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. The textural, morphological, structural, and chemical characteristics of the material allowed its use as a matrix to prepare a modified carbon paste electrode. The electrode was applied in the amoxicillin determination showing excellent performance. The prepared sensor presents sensitivity of 0.056 µA µmol L−1, low limit of detection of 0.35 µmol L−1, limit of quantification of 1.17 µmol L−1, and good reproducibility (6.1% relative standard deviation) for five different electrodes and good repeatability (3.9% relative standard deviation) for five successive measurements for the same electrode. The sensor shows high selectivity considering several organic compounds and inorganic salts as interfering agents. Additionally, the sensor presents excellent recovery in determination of commercial pills (98.6–102.4%) and whole cow milk (102.7%). The excellent performance of the sensor was interpreted taking into account the synergic effects of the textural properties and the silver nanoparticle sites available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effect of ultrasonic activation of the endodontic sealer on its intratubular penetration and bond strength to irradiated root dentin. Forty human teeth were distributed into 4 groups (n = 10), according to the radiation therapy (RT) exposure—70 Gy—and ultrasonic activation (UA) of the endodontic sealer: RT/UA—irradiated teeth and sealer UA; RT/no-UA—irradiated teeth and no sealer UA; no-RT/UA—non-irradiated teeth and sealer UA and no-RT/no-UA—non-irradiated teeth and no sealer UA. Push-out bond strength test was performed in a Universal Testing Machine. Failure modes and adhesive interface were analyzed under Scanning Electron Microscopy. The data were statistically compared (two-way-ANOVA and posthoc Games-Howell test; Fisher's exact test − α = 5%). The different experimental conditions (radiation and UA) and the root third had a significant effect on push-out bond strength, and the interaction of these factors was significant (p < 0.05). UA of the sealer significantly increased its bond strength to both irradiated and non-irradiated dentin (p < 0.05). The irradiated groups mostly presented adhesive-type failure of the sealer (p < 0.01). Regardless of the irradiation, the ultrasonically activated groups showed a more homogeneous adhesive interface, with the presence of sealer tags in greater density and depth. Ultrasonic activation enhanced the intratubular penetration and the bond strength of the endodontic sealer to irradiated dentin. The impact of ultrasonic activation of the endodontic sealer on teeth undergoing radiotherapy is a gap in the scientific literature that needs to be bridged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximate computing has emerged as a design alternative to enhance design efficiency by capitalizing on the inherent error resilience observed in numerous applications. Various error-resilient and compute-intensive applications, such as signal, image and video processing, computer vision, and supervised machine learning, necessitate dedicated hardware accelerators for mean squared error estimation during runtime. In these application domains, using efficient arithmetic operators, particularly a squarer unit, represents one of the most effective strategies for low-power design. This work introduces an approximate Radix- 2 m squarer unit, denoted as AxRSU- 2 m . The proposed squarer unit employs m-bit approximate encoders to execute operations on m-bit data concurrently. The AxRSU- 2 m under consideration explores encoders with m equal to 2 (AxRSU-4), 3 (AxRSU-8), and 4 (AxRSU-16). These approximate encoders exhibit low complexity and diminish the necessary partial products operating on m bits simultaneously, thereby substantially enhancing energy efficiency and reducing circuit area in the AxRSU- 2 m . To illustrate the trade-off between error and quality in the AxRSU- 2 m , we apply it to an SSD (sum squared difference) hardware accelerator designed for video processing, with a square-accumulate serving as a case study. Our findings reveal a novel Pareto front, presenting eight optimal AxRSU- 2 m solutions that achieve accuracy levels ranging from 3.76 to 75.53%. These solutions yield energy savings ranging from 46.20 to 95.57% and circuit area reductions ranging from 37.68 to 66.73%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native fruit trees have potential for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries, which is widely used in folk medicine. Guabiju, known as guabijuzeiro (Myrcianthes pungens (O. Berg) D. Legrand) is a perennial tree that belongs to the family Myrtaceae, occurring in Brazil from São Paulo to Rio Grande do Sul, and other countries like Uruguay, Bolivia, Paraguay and Argentina. This species demonstrates great commercial potential regarding the consumption of its fresh fruit or industrialized. Due to its importance is necessary to develop studies aimed at characterization (phenotypic, propagative, reproductive, chemical and nutritional), uses and applications. However, the available information has never been systematized and in this sense the objective of this review is to compile information about the species to guide further research. Regarding morphology, the guabijuzeiro is a semi-deciduous tree species, with propagation is carried out mainly through seeds and vegetative. Regarding reproductive aspects, there is a lack of studies that assess the mode of reproduction. The fruit can be consumed fresh or processed as ice cream, juice, freeze-dried or dehydrated. It is sweet and slightly acidic, low in calories, high in carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, calcium and potassium. Both the fruit, the seed and the leaves have high levels of bioactive compounds and high antioxidant capacity. The fruit pulp stands out for its carotenoids and phenolic compounds and the peel is rich in anthocyanins, especially in the mature phase, in addition to terpenoids. M. pungens has antimicrobial effects, gastroprotective activity and is promising in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases and against the side effects of cisplatin, an anticancer agent. Finally, there is a need for further studies with this species, mainly in the characterization of the leaves, uses and applications of the fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat fragmentation is among the greatest threats to arachnids present in the forests, especially to Enoploctenus cyclothorax (Ctenidae), which is widely distributed in the Atlantic Forest of southern and southeastern Brazil. Fragmented populations, whether due to anthropic or stochastic factors, tend to be more susceptible to extinction, since genetic diversity is reduced in small and isolated populations. Considering this, the current work aimed to understand how the genetic variability is distributed in six populations of E. cyclothorax (120 individuals sampled), sampled in fragments of the Atlantic Forest in Paraná (Brazil), based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. The results obtained support the separation of E. cyclothorax into two distinct genetic groups in the state, based mainly on analyses of genetic structure and connectivity. A strong and significant genetic structure was observed in the species, supported by the k = 3 estimated using Bayesian analysis, by the high values of FST genetic differentiation, and by the low gene flow identified between the genetic groups. Corroborating these results, isolation by distance and the presence of a genetic barrier in the evaluated populations were evidenced. Population genomic analysis also revealed non-homogeneous genetic diversity in E. cyclothorax (HE = 0.14 to 0.31). The hypothesis that population fragmentation could possibly impact the genetic variability of E. cyclothorax throughout the state was confirmed by the inferred data, which point to phytophysiognomy, geographical distance, and forest fragmentation as factors that shaped the current genetic structure identified in the evaluated populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to cultivate the microalgae Chlorella fusca LEB 111 and Spirulina sp. LEB 18 in dairy effluent supplemented with L-tryptophan to produce agricultural biostimulants rich in indoleacetic acid. After microalgae cultivation, treatments were performed on tomato seeds using biomass extracts or supernatant of cultures. The results indicated the potential of L-tryptophan supplementation in cultivating C. fusca and Spirulina in dairy effluent for an increase of 44.5% and 135.1% of the indoleacetic acid concentration. The treatments carried out on tomato seeds using biomass extracts or supernatant from microalgae cultures resulted in germination parameters of tomato seeds superior to the control treatment (distilled water), obtaining up to 100% of seed germination from the supernatant of the cultivation of C. fusca with 100% dairy effluent supplemented with L-tryptophan and from the use of biomass extract from the Spirulina cultivation condition with 25% dairy effluent supplemented with L-tryptophan, confirming the potential of using microalgae for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barth syndrome (BTHS) is a rare disorder caused by mutations in the TAFAZZIN gene. Previous studies from both patients and model systems have established metabolic dysregulation as a core component of BTHS pathology. In particular, features such as lactic acidosis, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) deficiency, and aberrant fatty acid and glucose oxidation have been identified. However, the lack of a mechanistic understanding of what causes these conditions in the context of BTHS remains a significant knowledge gap, and this has hindered the development of effective therapeutic strategies for treating the associated metabolic problems. In the current study, we utilized tafazzin-knockout C2C12 mouse myoblasts (TAZ-KO) and cardiac and skeletal muscle tissue from tafazzin-knockout mice to identify an upstream mechanism underlying impaired PDH activity in BTHS. This mechanism centers around robust upregulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), resulting from hyperactivation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and subsequent transcriptional upregulation by forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1). Upregulation of PDK4 in tafazzin-deficient cells causes direct phospho-inhibition of PDH activity accompanied by increased glucose uptake and elevated intracellular glucose concentration. Collectively, our findings provide a novel mechanistic framework whereby impaired tafazzin function ultimately results in robust PDK4 upregulation, leading to impaired PDH activity and likely linked to dysregulated metabolic substrate utilization. This mechanism may underlie previously reported findings of BTHS-associated metabolic dysregulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This review aimed to assess the utility of urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (uNAG) as a prognostic biomarker for nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: The search for relevant studies was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed (Medline), EMBASE, LILACS, CENTRAL, IBECS, and gray literature. We employed a random effects model to calculate the standardized mean difference and 95% confidence interval. Furthermore, we assessed heterogeneity using Cochrane's Q test and Higgins' I2 statistics. Results: This review included a total of 16 articles involving 1669 patients, with 13 being case–control studies and three being cohorts. The meta-analysis conducted across all studies revealed significant heterogeneity. However, subgroup analysis of four studies indicated that an increase in uNAG among normoalbuminuric patients was associated with the development of macroalbuminuria (DMP = – 1.47; 95% CI = – 1.98 to 0.95; p < 0.00001; I2 = 45%). Conversely, it did not demonstrate effectiveness in predicting the development of microalbuminuria (DMP = 0.26; 95% CI = – 0.08 to 0.60; p = 0.13; I2 = 17%). Conclusions: Elevated uNAG levels in normoalbuminuric patients may indicate an increased risk for the development of macroalbuminuria, but not microalbuminuria. However, the high heterogeneity observed among the studies highlights the necessity for further research to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt marshes are capable of mitigating metal pollution in coastal environments, yet the efficacy of this remediation is contingent upon various environmental factors and the plant species involved. This study investigates the influence of different anthropogenic activities, including industrial, urban, recreational (in an insular area), and dredging operations, on the bioaccumulation of eight metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) within Spartina alterniflora Loisel. in the Patos Lagoon estuary, Brazil. The research aims to assess the pattern of metal bioaccumulation and distribution within the plant's leaves, stems, and roots while also examining metal presence in the sediment. Our main findings reveal that S. alterniflora exhibited elevated metal levels in its plant structure directly related with the metal concentrations in the surrounding sediment, which, in turn, is related to the different anthropogenic activities. The industrial area presented the highest metal levels in sediment and plant sections, followed by dredging, insular, and urban areas. This same pattern was mirrored for the bioconcetration factors (BCF), with the BCFs consistently indicating active metal bioaccumulation across all areas and for most of the metals. This provides evidence of the metal bioaccumulation pattern in S. alterniflora, with elevated BCFs in areas affected by activities with a higher degree of impact. Translocation factors (TF) showed varying metal mobility patterns within the plant's below-ground and above-ground sections across the different areas, with only Hg exhibiting consistent translocation across all study areas. Zn was the primary metal contributor in all plant sections, followed by Pb and Cu. It is worth noting that Pb is a non-essential metal for this plant, highlighting the relationship between elevated Pb contributions in the plant sections and the bioaccumulation of this metal within the plant's structure. Overall, this study emphasizes the bioaccumulation capacity of S. alterniflora and elucidate the intrinsic connection between different anthropogenic activities and their impact on the resultant availability and bioaccumulation of metals by this salt marsh plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is an herbicide and is among the most widely distributed pollutant in the environment and wastewater. Herein is presented a complete comparison of adsorption performance between two different magnetic carbon nanomaterials: graphene oxide (GO) and its reduced form (rGO). Magnetic functionalization was performed employing a coprecipitation method, using only one source of Fe2+, requiring low energy, and potentially allowing the control of the amount of incorporated magnetite. For the first time in literature, a green reduction approach for GO with and without Fe3O4, maintaining the magnetic behavior after the reaction, and an adsorption performance comparison between both carbon nanomaterials are demonstrated. The nanoadsorbents were characterized by FTIR, XRD, Raman, VSM, XPS, and SEM analyses, which demonstrates the successful synthesis of graphene derivate, with different amounts of incorporate magnetite, resulting in distinct magnetization values. The reduction was confirmed by XPS and FTIR techniques. The type of adsorbent reveals that the amount of magnetite on nanomaterial surfaces has significant influence on adsorption capacity and removal efficiency. The procedure demonstrated that the best performance, for magnetic nanocomposites, was obtained by GO∙Fe3O4 1:1 and rGO∙Fe3O4 1:1, presenting values of removal percentage of 70.49 and 91.19%, respectively. The highest adsorption capacity was reached at pH 2.0 for GO∙Fe3O4 1:1 (69.98 mg g−1) and rGO∙Fe3O4 1:1 (89.27 mg g−1), through different interactions: π-π, cation-π, and hydrogen bonds. The adsorption phenomenon exhibited a high dependence on pH, initial concentration of adsorbate, and coexisting ions. Sips and PSO models demonstrate the best adjustment for experimental data, suggesting a heterogeneous surface and different energy sites, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters showed that the process was spontaneous and exothermic. Finally, the nanoadsorbents demonstrated a high efficiency in 2,4-D adsorption even after five adsorption/desorption cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceratium furcoides is a dinoflagellate that exhibits invasive behavior in the aquatic ecosystems of South America and has been expanding its range in recent years. In this study, we monitored 151 municipalities in southern Brazil between 2012 and 2019 with the objective of detecting and recording the species' occurrence and abundance in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, as well as to examine its expansion and persistence pattern. Ceratium furcoides was recorded in 84.1% of the monitored municipalities, in all three of the state's hydrographic regions (HR). Spatially, the Guaiba HR showed the highest density for the species (10,912 cells mL−1); in temporal scales, 2014 and 2015 displayed density peaks, usually in the summer. The cumulative area invaded by C. furcoides gradually increased, reaching 266,625 km2 in 2018, corresponding to about 94% of the state; however, the highest expansion rate (3142 km year−1) and longest distance covered (40.4 km) occurred in 2012, during its introduction. The expansion varied over the studied years, initially heading toward HR Littoral and Guaiba (between 2012 and 2014), followed by a steady period (2015–2017), and subsequently a progression toward HR Uruguay (2018). The frequency analysis showed that persistence was short in most of the municipalities. The results indicate that local environmental characteristics, especially temperature and precipitation, could be key for the invasion and development of the species. Given its rapid expansion, statewide dispersibility, and extremely large bloom formation, Rio Grande do Sul looks to be C. furcoides' second home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a polyphagous species capable to develop on several cultivated and non-cultivated host plants, including weeds. On this basis, we evaluated the survival and development of S. frugiperda on leaves of hairy fleabane (Conyza bonariensis L.; Asteraceae) and slender amaranth (Amaranthus viridis L.; Amaranthaceae) in laboratory trials. Spodoptera frugiperda neonates were initially fed on leaves of non-Bt maize and then were transferred to hairy fleabane or slender amaranth leaves at different time points. On hairy fleabane leaves, only 12% of larvae in L5 and L6 stages developed into pupae and adults, with similar duration of immature stage of those developed in maize leaves. In contrast, S. frugiperda larvae from L1 to L6 stages developed into pupae on slender amaranth leaves, but only those from the L2 stage onwards originated adults (9–65%). On maize, > 64% of neonates developed to adulthood. Surviving larvae fed on early instars on slender amaranth leaves had up to 10 d longer developmental time of neonate-to-pupa and neonate-to-adult periods compared to those developed on maize. Pupal weights of surviving insects on slender amaranth leaves were also lower (104.9–67.4 mg/pupa) than on maize (207.4 mg/pupa). In summary, our findings indicate that the hairy fleabane is not a suitable host for S. frugiperda, whereas slender amaranth is a viable food source for the survival end development of this species, mainly for advanced instars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a non-ionizing imaging modality suitable for bedside pulmonary imaging. Currently, lung imaging with EIT in the ICU is tomographic due to the need for real-time images. However, linearized reconstruction methods have the potential to provide 3-D images in real time at the bedside. In this paper, the 3-D implementation of Calderón's method provided in Shin and Mueller (Inverse Probl 36:124005, 2020) is further developed for a patient-specific domain. Results of reconstructions from simulated data of two realistic human torsos using the Calderón-based method and one step of an iterative Gauss-Newton method are made for four different electrode configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the growth of microalgae Spirulina sp. LEB 18 in medium supplemented with crude glycerol to evaluate the biochemical composition of the biomass and its productivity during 72 h of culture. The microalgae cultivated in medium supplemented with 2.5 g L−1 glycerol presented a fourfold higher cell productivity (28.04 mg L−1 h−1) than the control culture, reaching a maximum biomass concentration of 1.08 g L−1 in 36 h. Among the evaluated compounds, proteins were predominant in the biomass throughout the crop, and at the highest concentration of biomass (36 h), the yield was 384.15 mg L−1. The composition of unsaturated fatty acids increased approximately twofold with the organic carbon source (493.53 mg g−1) compared to the control. The predominant fatty acid was oleic acid, reaching 336.00 mg g−1, in the culture supplemented with glycerol. The increase in productivity provides a cost reduction and increases the feasibility of obtaining microalgal biomass products, including biofuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the adsorption of nickel ions from a real effluent from a metal-mechanic industry was investigated in a fixed-bed column using biochar. Biochar was prepared from winemaking residues originating from the Beifiur® composting process. The use of wine industry residues as precursor materials for biochar production is established in biomass residue valorization using the existing logistics and the lowest possible number of manipulations and pre-treatments. The results found in the work showed that the optimal conditions for nickel adsorption in fixed-bed columns were bed height (Z) of 7 cm, initial nickel concentration (C0) of 1.5 mg L−1, and flow rate (Q) of 18 mL min−1. In this condition, the maximum adsorption capacity of the column was 0.452 mg g−1, the mass transfer zone (Zm) was 3.3 cm, the treated effluent volume (Veff) was 9.72 L, and the nickel removal (R) was 92.71%. The Yoon-Nelson and BDST dynamic models were suitable to represent the breakthrough curves of nickel adsorption. Finally, the fixed-bed column adsorption using biochar from winemaking residues proved to be a promising alternative for nickel removal from real industrial effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of novel and sustainable bioprocesses for the valorization of agri-food by-products is required for the food industry to transition to a circular economy. The objective of this study to evaluate a sequential process consisting of fed-batch pretreatment followed by semi-continuous anaerobic digestion of brewer's spent grains for the production of biomethane and bioenergy. Anaerobic digestion was conducted under mesophilic and methanogenic conditions, and the digestate and corresponding biogas were characterized to determine the process efficiency. Experimental results indicate that the fed-batch pretreatment improves the biogas production obtained from the semi-continuous process. The methane yield during the fed-batch pretreatment was 11.89 L CH4/kg TVSadded, while in the semi-continuous process, the yield was 30.61 L CH4/kg TVSadded. The biogas produced in the semi-continuous process could generate electricity (66.9 kWh/t) and heat (316.75 MJ/t), avoiding greenhouse gas emissions (20.81 kg CO2eq/t). Implementing the novel anaerobic digestion system could be a promising approach for the valorization of brewery by-products, producing renewable energy from biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]