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Veterinary acupuncture is a complementary and alternative medicine practiced widely in Brazil and is recognized as a specialty by the Federal Council of Veterinary Medicine. However, despite the growing interest of professionals for training and of clients for care, there are no studies on the socioeconomic profile of these veterinary acupuncturists in Brazil. The present survey received 295 (complete) replies, the majority of the respondents were 40 years old or less, female (87%) and were from the southeastern region of Brazil. Furthermore, 57% of respondents were at the beginning of their acupuncture careers with less than 5 years of practice. Most respondents chose to be an acupuncturist for personal satisfaction and perceived effectiveness of acupuncture. Experienced acupuncturists received better financial rewards and were more satisfied with their earnings and valued by their clients. Most respondents believe that acupuncture has scientific evidence through experimental and clinical studies. The socioeconomic profile of veterinary acupuncturists is essential to elaborate future action plans and help improve the quality of veterinary professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate carbon and (C) and nitrogen (N) of the light organic matter in labile and humic fractions of the soil in a chronosequence of clonal Eucalyptus urophylla. The study was carried out on six different sites in the South-Central region of Maranhão state, northeastern Brazil, inserted in the Cerrado biome. Soil was sampled in five clonal Eucalyptus urophylla S.T. Blake stands of different ages and one in the area with old-growth forest (OG), which represents the native vegetation area. Soil samples were collected in the 0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm layers to determine textural class, bulk density, C, and N in the light organic matter of labile and humic fractions. Eucalyptus plantations can have great capacity to increase stocks of soil C and N, humic, and labile fractions over the years, presenting results equal or higher than a native Cerrado forest. Thus, Eucalyptus plantations come as an effective lad use to sink C and increase soil nutrient levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing path analysis, we examined the interconnectedness among six meteorological variables. Among these, three pertain to energy conditions—air temperature, net solar radiation, and reference evapotranspiration (ET0)—while the others are associated with hydrological conditions: precipitation, relative humidity, and water deficiency. These variables were assessed across five distinct temporal delay levels to understand their influences on the normalized difference vegetation Index (NDVI) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI) within grassland areas situated in the state of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil. The images underwent processing using analytical algorithms and a geographic information system (GIS). The direct and indirect impacts of these variables on the NDVI and EVI exhibited remarkable similarity across varying temporal delays and geographic regions. Meteorological variables explained over 50% of the observed variation in both indices, occasionally even reaching levels of 70%. Temperature and relative humidity primarily exerted direct effects on the indices. Conversely, precipitation exhibited indirect effects on the indices, often in conjunction with other hydrological variables. ET0 demonstrated a direct effect on the vegetation indices, particularly after a delay of 32 days. Solar radiation and water deficiency displayed direct effects up to the 32-day mark, implying that vegetation responds more promptly to these variables. The proposed methodology enabled a consistent and stable assessment of the direct and indirect effects of meteorological variables on vegetation indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabies transmitted by wildlife is the main source of human rabies mortality in Latin America and considered an emerging disease. The common marmoset Callithrix jacchus of Brazil is the only known primate reservoir of rabies worldwide. We tested whether alive free-ranging C. jacchus were exposed to rabies in four northeast states that have previously reported rabies-positive dead C. jacchus (Pernambuco and Bahia) or not (Paraíba and Rio Grande do Norte). Our results show no evidence of rabies antibodies or infection in the sampled C. jacchus, suggesting that apparently healthy marmosets are not widely exposed to rabies over their natural range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nosocomial infections (NIs) appear in patients under medical care in the hospital. The surveillance of the bacterial communities employing high-resolution 16S rRNA profiling, known as metabarcoding, represents a reliable method to establish factors that may influence the composition of the bacterial population during NIs. The present study aimed to utilize high-resolution 16S rRNA profiling to identify high bacterial diversity by analyzing 11 inside and 10 outside environments from the General Hospital of Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Brazil. Our results identified a high bacterial diversity, and among these, the most abundant bacterial genera linked to NIs were Cutibacterium, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Corynebacterium. A Acinetobacter was detected in cafeterias, bus stops, and adult and pediatric intensive care units (ICUs). Data suggest an association between transport and alimentation areas proximal to the hospital ICU environment. Interestingly, the correlation and clusterization analysis showed the potential of the external areas to directly influence the ICU pediatric department microbial community, including the outpatient's clinic, visitor halls, patient reception, and the closest cafeterias. Our results demonstrate that high-resolution 16S rRNA profiling is a robust and reliable tool for bacterial genomic surveillance. In addition, the metabarcoding approach might help elaborate decontamination policies, and consequently reduce NIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hoplias intermedius, of the Characiformes order and Erytrinidae family, is widely distributed across South America. This commercially interesting species can reach a length of 100 cm and a weight of 15–20 kg. To evaluate the reproductive biology of H. intermedius in the São Francisco River, Brazil, 154 males and 190 females were captured bi‐monthly between September 2018 and August 2019 from the downstream regions of the Três Marias dam. Gillnets with differently sized meshes were deployed at distances of 34–54 km after the confluence with the Abaeté River (18°00′49″ S, 45°10′51″ W). Biometric data, gonadosomatic index (GSI), Fulton condition factor (K) and absolute fecundity (AF) were determined for each specimen. Gonad maturation stages and the spawning season were also established. The biometric data, GSI and K average values were relatively higher in females than in males. The reproductive peak for both sexes was reached around January/February. The mean AF was 4300.5 ± 1451.2 follicles per female. Fully developed vitellogenic follicles had a mean diameter of 1014.8 ± 250.7 μm, which is characteristic of fish with moderate fecundity. Fish of all maturation stages, from mature, spawned and spermed, occurred in all bimesters, indicating that this species reproduced throughout the year. The high frequency of spawning females throughout the year and the histological characteristics of spawned ovaries indicated that trairão H. intermedius' spawning type is partial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazilian coffee production relies on the cultivation of Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora. Climate change has been responsible for the decreasing yield of the crops in the country yet the associated microbial community can mitigate these effects by improving plant growth and defense. Although some studies have tried to describe the microorganisms associated with these Coffea species, a study that compares the microbiome on a wider spatial scale is needed for a better understanding of the terroir of each coffee planting region. Therefore, our aim was to evaluate the microbial communities harbored in soils and fruits of these Coffea species in four Brazilian floristic domains (Amazon, Atlantic Forest Caatinga, and Cerrado). One hundred and eight samples (90 of soil and 90 of fruits) were used in the extraction and sequencing of the fungal and bacterial DNA. We detected more than 1000 and 500 bacterial and fungal genera, respectively. Some soil microbial taxa were more closely related to one coffee species than the other species. Bacillus bataviensis tends to occur more in arid soils from the Caatinga, while the fungus Saitozyma sp. was more related to soils cultivated with C. arabica. Thus, the species and the planting region (floristic domain) of coffee affect the microbial composition associated with this crop. This study is the first to report microbial communities associated with coffee produced in four floristic domains that include sites in eight Brazilian states. Data generated by DNA sequencing provides new insights into microbial roles and their potential for the developing more sustainable coffee management, such as the production of biofertilizers and starter culture for fermentation of coffee cherries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressure for food production has expanded agriculture frontiers worldwide, posing a threat to water resources. For instance, placing crop systems over hydromorphic soils (HS), have a direct impact on groundwater and influence the recharge of riverine ecosystems. Environmental regulations improved over the past decades, but it is difficult to detect and protect these soils. To overcome this issue, we applied a temporal remote sensing strategy to generate a synthetic soil image (SYSI) associated with random forest (RF) to map HS in an 735,953.8 km2 area in Brazil. HS presented different spectral patterns from other soils, allowing the detection by satellite sensors. Slope and SYSI contributed the most for the prediction model using RF with cross validation (accuracy of 0.92). The assessments showed that 14.5% of the study area represented HS, mostly located inside agricultural areas. Soybean and pasture areas had up to 14.9% while sugar cane had just 3%. Here we present an advanced remote sensing technique that may improve the identification of HS under agriculture and assist public policies for their conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, undergraduate medical students (UMS) exposed to isolation, social distancing and complete or partial face-to-face educational activities interruption may present increased stress, depression and anxiety. This study was undertaken to evaluate if, during isolation, UMS involved in online group activities as investigators of a research project (volunteer group) would present better mental health than their colleagues, not involved in that research (control group). A Web-based survey, via the Google Forms platform, including details on demographic data, life habits, previous health conditions, worries with the COVID-19 pandemic, sleep pattern modifications and depression, anxiety and mental stress, using the DASS-21 (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale) was implemented from 20 July to 31 August 2020. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS version 20.0. A p-value <0.05 was significant. A total of 684 UMS were included, 228 as a volunteer group and 456 as a control group. Mean age was 23.15 (3.16) years. The groups were paired for age, gender, ethnicity, life habits and previous health conditions. Older age, male gender, participation in the research project, unchanged sleep pattern during the pandemic, lack of fear from getting the COVID-19 and lack of previous health conditions were associated with lower DASS21 scores (better mental health). Participating as investigators of a research project foreseeing frequent interaction with patients, colleagues and professors (other investigators) lead to better mental health during the COVID-19 quarantine in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental vulnerability refers to the susceptibility of a region to damage when it is subjected to natural or anthropogenic actions. The assessment of environmental vulnerability in lakes is an important tool to assist managers in planning and intervening for sustainable production and environmental preservation. The combination of geotechnologies, fuzzy logic and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) has been applied by professionals and researchers to improve the work and research conducted in various areas and environments. In this context, the objective of this work was to map the environmental vulnerability of a lake and its surroundings through fuzzy logic and the AHP method. The study area comprises the Juparanã Lagoon Drainage Surface (JLDS), Espírito Santo state, Brazil. A survey of the physical characteristics of the watershed (drainage surface) that feeds the Juparanã Lagoon was carried out and also of the land use of this surface. To achieve the proposed objectives, the following methodological steps were implemented: (a) delimitation of watersheds, (b) spatialization of Permanent Preservation Areas (APP) based on the Brazilian Forestry Code (Law nº 12,651/2012), (c) application of logic fuzzy and AHP to spatialize the environmental vulnerability and (d) application of an evaluation of environmental vulnerability to the Preservation Areas (APP). Environmental vulnerability was modeled using Euclidean distance analysis, fuzzy logic and the AHP method, as proposed by Saaty (1977). For the development of this work, geotechnologies were used, with special emphasis on the use of the free software QGIS. The analysis revealed that 31.20%, 32.86% and 20.93% of the JLDS have very high, high and medium vulnerability, respectively. The evaluation of the environmental vulnerability of the APP showed that there is protection in the APP of the JLDS at rates of 47.35%, 34.05% and 14.5% for very high, high and medium vulnerability classes, respectively. The difficulties encountered were related to the lack of studies in the area of environmental vulnerability with a particular focus on lagoons. Here, for the first time, we perform a photointerpretation of the surroundings of Juparanã Lagoon. An important improvement measure would be the application of a temporal analysis to assess the dynamics of environmental vulnerability over time, considering socioeconomic, climatic and environmental changes. This would provide a more complete understanding of the distribution of environmental vulnerability in the study area. The methodology can be adapted to consider different scales of analysis, from local to regional, national and global scales, to assess environmental vulnerability at various scopes and levels of complexity. It can also be adapted to include local communities and governments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is a common allergy in infants and can affect proper growth and development. This study verified factors associated with the evolution of the nutritional status (NS) among infants with CMPA fed with hypoallergenic formulas (HF). Methods: This is a longitudinal study of infants (n = 1036) participating on a governmental program in Brazil. Researchers assessed Nutritional status before HF treatment (T1) and after HF treatment (T2). The causality of exposure variables on the evolution of NS was verified by Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR). Results: We observed an increase in anthropometric indexes analyzed with statistically significant results (p < 0.01). The weight/age and height/age scores showed a significant reduction in infants with nutritional deficit. The Body Mass Index (BMI) showed a decrease in the number of infants with nutritional deficit (< -2 z-score). On the other hand, there was an increase in those classified as at risk of overweight, overweight and obese. MLR showed that those who remained < 12 months in the program had a lower odds ratio (95% CI = 0.355–0.906; p = 0.018) to have inadequate NS with increasing BMI. Preterm infants were 4 times more likely (CI 95% = 1.520–10.694; p = 0.005) to have their BMI decreased and those who received nutritional counseling had a lower odds ratio (CI 95% = 0.411–0.953; p = 0.029) to maintain adequate NS. Conclusion: The program has a significant impact on the NS of infants with CMPA. The constant management and implementation of differentiated criteria according to the evolution of NS for the supply of HF is fundamental in the continuity of this public policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Establish the validity of a triaxial accelerometer (Dynaport®) for evaluating the energy expenditure of patients with stroke sequelae at a rehabilitation hospital This is a cross-sectional study with 24 stroke inpatients of a rehabilitation hospital. The participants were assessed on energy expenditure by an ergospirometer system and the triaxial accelerometer simultaneously during a walk test. The data collected by both devices were compared by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman limits of agreement An almost perfect agreement (ICC = 0,94) in the energy expenditure measured by the accelerometer compared to the results of the ergospirometer system was found during the exercise test. The Bland-Altman analysis has shown suitable limits of agreement. Post hoc analyses with the maximum volume of oxygen and the total energy expenditure measured by the ergospirometer system evidenced significant correlation with the energy expenditure measurements by the accelerometer Our results evidence that the triaxial accelerometer Dynaport® and its built-in software are valid for estimating the energy expenditure of stroke sequelae during a walk exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylogenetic Systematics is recognized as one of the main axes for the critical understanding of biodiversity. This science intends to order it in a rational way, aiming at understanding the processes that are responsible for generating the patterns that are presented by it. To this end, it treats biological evolution, that is, the recognition of descent with modification and its implications for the relationships of ancestry and descent between the different lineages of living beings, as its central paradigm. However, in Brazil, there are still problems related to inadequate and outdated teaching of Evolutionary Theory. Thus, in this work, the main epistemological obstacles related to learning about evolution will be presented, and how they emerged throughout the history of the natural sciences. In order to show how they relate to each other and how they contribute to the maintenance of the current problem called taxonomic impediment. Finally, the potential of stimulating phylogenetic thinking, that is, evolutionary, for the critical understanding of biodiversity will be exposed. Thus, we agree that combating current gaps in knowledge about biodiversity must be thought of at multiple levels of action and scientific investigation. One of them being the teaching of Science and Biology, we highlight the role of teachers to be an active voice in this process, with the potential arising from the development of innovative teaching approaches along with curriculum planning aimed at combating the vices responsible for fostering the existence of such gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We applied a robust framework for agricultural drought identification in the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil, by employing the Vegetation Condition Index (VCI) based on data obtained through the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI). By doing so, we analyzed the interrelationships between the VCI and anomalies in the Land Surface Temperature (LST), along with connections between the VCI and data considering water deficits in vulnerable areas. When it came to image processing, we focused on the use of analytics and GIS algorithms, while the Scott–Knott method elucidated the statistical analyses. Consequently, we identified drought areas followed by periods susceptible to their occurrence, indicating 2016 as the driest year. The North macroregion presented the lowest average values regarding VCI values in the most vulnerable periods, followed by the Central one. We also call attention to the highest LST averages observed in 2015 and 2016, as strong El Niño events marked the same timeframe periods. The methodological approach was efficient for the identification, analysis, and characterization of agricultural drought occurrences, enabling mitigation actions, as well as the management of the exploitation and protection of water resources. Moreover, further research should be conducted by incorporating other indices to enhance the understanding of agricultural drought and its effects on vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to evaluate nursing professionals and patient safety culture during the professional performance in the care of suspected or infected patients with COVID-19. Method: a cross-sectional study carried out with 90 professionals from critical care units of two teaching hospitals. An instrument for sociodemographic characterization and health conditions was used, in addition to the constructs "Nursing professional and patient safety" and the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture. Univariate analyzes were performed between the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the characteristics of Nursing professionals, applying Kendell's correlation between the constructs. Results: the COVID-19 diagnosis presented a significant statistical difference between nursing professionals that worked for more than six years at the critical care unit (p=0.020) and the items of the construct "Nursing professional and patient safety" regarding the doubts about how to remove the personal protective equipment (p=0.013) and safety flow (p=0,021). The dimensions 2 (p=0.003), 3 (p=0.009), 4 (p=0.013), 6 (p<0.001), and 9 (p=0.024) of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture were associated with the accomplishment of training. Conclusion: a higher professional nursing experience time was associated with non-infection by COVID-19. The perception of the safety culture of the patient was related to the accomplishment of training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Health Sciences (2447-8938) is the property of Unopar Cientifica Ciencias Biologicas e da Saude and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to assess the levels of rare earth elements and yttrium (REY) and vanadium (V) in soils cultivated with citrus, oil palm and black pepper in the eastern Amazon. The potential risk of contamination was estimated using the enrichment (EF) and bioaccumulation (BAF) factors. The results showed that pH, K, and P significantly affected the REY concentrations. The bioaccumulation of europium was the most significant among the studied elements. The contents of V were positively correlated with pH and Fe and K oxides. The EF and BAF of V followed the order: EF – black pepper (2.95) > oil palm (2.77) ≫ citrus (0.57); BAF – citrus (0.091) > black pepper (0.023) > oil palm (0.018). The increase in REY and V does not pose current risks in the study area. However, these results may support the monitoring of environmental contamination, prevention, and control of emerging contaminants by government agencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The point prevalence of running injuries in Brazilian trail runners was about 40 %. • About 70 % of the trail runners reported previous injuries in the last 12 months. • Knee and lower leg were the body regions most affected by running-related injuries. • The 1 and 12-month cramp prevalence was 20 % and 36 %, respectively; main muscle: triceps surae. • Before starting to run on trails, 85 % of the trail runners practiced road running. Physical activity in natural environments, such as trail running, is a way to nurture physical and mental health. However, running has an inherent risk of musculoskeletal injuries. To investigate the prevalence of running-related injuries (RRI) and cramps, and to describe the personal and training characteristics of Brazilian trail runners. A total of 1068 trail runners were included in this observational cross-sectional study. The participants had at least six months of trail running experience. The data were collected between April 2019 and February 2020 through an online and self-reported survey. The point prevalence of RRIs was 39.2 % (95 % credible interval [CrI]: 36.3, 42.1). The body region with the highest point prevalence was the knee. The 12-month period prevalence of RRIs was 69.2 % (95 %CrI: 66.4, 72.0). The body region with the highest 12-month period prevalence was the lower leg. 1- and 12-month period prevalence of cramps was 19.5 % (95 %CrI: 17.1, 21.9) and 36.0 % (95 %CrI: 33.0, 38.8), respectively. Triceps surae was the muscle most affected by cramps. Two in 5 (40 %) trail runners reported being injured at the time of data collection, and about 2 of 3 reported previous RRIs in the last 12 months. The most prevalent injured body regions were the knee and the lower leg. One in 5 trail runners reported cramps in the last month, increasing to 36 % in the last 12 months. Knowing better the characteristics of the population and the burden of health conditions may inform better decisions regarding implementation actions toward trail running practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flooding occurrence is one of the most common phenomena that impact urban areas, and this intensifies during heavy rainfall periods. Knowing the areas with the greatest vulnerability is of paramount importance as it allows mitigating actions to be implemented in order to minimize the generated impacts. In this context, this study aimed to use Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to identify the areas with greater flooding vulnerability in Espírito Santo state, Brazil. The study was based on the following methodological steps: (1) a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) acquisition and watersheds delimitation; (2) maximum and accumulated rainfall intensity calculations for the three studied periods using meteorological data; (3) a land use and occupation map reclassification regarding flood vulnerability and fuzzy logic application; (4) an application of Euclidean distance and fuzzy logic in hydrography and water mass vector variables; (5) a flood vulnerability model generation. Based on the found results, it was observed that the metropolitan and coastal regions presented as greater flood vulnerability areas during the dry season, as in these regions, almost all of the 9.18% of the state's area was classified as highly vulnerable, while during rainy season, the most vulnerable areas were concentrated in Caparaó and in the coastal and immigration and metropolitan regions, as in these regions, almost all of the 12.72% of the state's area was classified as highly vulnerable. In general, by annually distributing the rainfall rates, a greater flood vulnerability was observed in the metropolitan and coastal and immigration regions, as in these areas, almost all of the 7.72% of the state's area was classified as highly vulnerable. According to the study, Espírito Santo state was mostly classified as a low (29.15%) and medium (28.06%) flood vulnerability area considering the annual period, while its metropolitan region has a very high flood vulnerability risk. Finally, GIS modeling is important to assist in decision making regarding public management and the employed methodology presents worldwide application potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Air pollution is one of the main environmental problems in the metropolitan area of São Paulo (MASP) in Brazil, with frequent exceedances of air quality standards. Occasionally, the exceedance events last many days, resulting in continuous exposure to concentrations above the standards, with impacts to human health. In this air pollution long-term study, a method was developed to identify persistent exceedance events (PEE) of particulate matter (PM10) and ozone (O3) and associated surface weather patterns. Between 2005 and 2017, 119 PEE were identified, with exceedances occurring simultaneously in at least 50% of monitoring stations along 3 to 14 consecutive days. Median PM10 and O3 concentrations increased by 60% during the events. Mean fields of sea level pressure from global reanalysis data revealed the influence of high-pressure systems and pre-frontal conditions. PM10 events were frequent in austral winter and mostly driven by anomalous atmospheric circulation with a wind change to northwest. On the other hand, O3 events were common in the spring, associated with higher positive anomalies of temperature and solar radiation. Overall, results show that PEE span a regional scale, differing from ordinary exceedance events that can be driven by local conditions. Policy makers should be aware of the frequency of PEE in the development of mitigation measures against the exposure to harmful levels of air pollutants. The concept of PEE can be applied to other metropolitan areas and may support the development of data-driven air quality predictive models based on current or forecasted weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sensory profile from the Coffea canephora stands out for being denser, less sweet, presenting less acidity, and having characteristics of a marked aroma of roasted cereals. Coffee is essentially a terroir product, that is, directly influenced by environmental aspects, both natural and anthropic, in this sense, it has been argued that Coffea canephora is linked to the context of inferior coffees in sensory terms by the terroir conditions. This study aimed to characterize and investigate the terroir in different areas of Conilon coffee production, with the application of different fermentation methods, and to observe their possible gains and losses in the sensory quality of Coffea canephora. Cherry coffee samples were collected in six municipalities in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, which has an altitude variation from 376 m to 866 m. The study showed that the local characteristics of altitude and temperature directly influence the sensory quality, as well as demonstrated that natural fermentation in a specific altitude zone delivered good results, fixing the terroir factor. Finally, it was demonstrated that induced fermentation helps to improve sensory quality for higher altitude areas, indicating the possibility of reformulating the terroir of Conilon coffee production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies show that agricultural activities around the world still present a strong dependence on agrochemicals that can leach into the soil profile, causing its contamination, as well as that of water resources. In this context, the present study evaluates the potential risk of pesticide leaching in areas of edaphoclimatic suitability for coffee cultivation in Espírito Santo state, Brazil. As a methodology, the areas of edaphoclimatic suitability for conilon and arabica coffee were defined, and subsequently, the risk of leaching of active agrochemical ingredients in these areas was evaluated using the Groundwater Ubiquity Score (GUS), Leaching Index (LIX) and Attenuation Factor/Retardation Factor (AF/RF) methods. Of the ten active ingredients evaluated, sulfentrazone and thiamethoxam present a potential risk of leaching into the groundwater level. The study allowed us to evaluate the potential risk of agrochemical leaching in tropical soils cultivated with coffee using geographic information system (GIS) techniques. The methodological proposal can be adapted for other agricultural areas and crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like the school, the sports phenomenon adds cultural and identity elements considering the different geographical contexts, that is, sports are also social manifestations of the school plot. The present study investigated how students from different cultures (brazilian-bolivians) portray their national identity and assume a predilection for certain football schedules. The research is qualitative, which a group of individuals, composed of 14 students from a municipal school in Corumbá-MS, located near the Brazil-Bolivia border, was interviewed. The results indicate that the students mostly assume a preference for the Brazilian soccer teams, as well as reveal some distance between Bolivian teams. The display of the transformation of costumes and norms if the investigation process is not within the scope of its scope. Thus, the transformation of traditions of traditions is complex in the meaning of the expression, in this way the process of the students' modernity, it was considered of identities that the manifestation of the students expresses as a set of meanings that transcend football. Therefore, it was possible to infer that the cultural identity of these social actors is influenced by the favorable group affiliation that Brazilian soccer provides, especially when compared to Bolivian soccer teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to adapt to the Brazilian culture and validate the module "Strategies to end seclusion restraint" of the QualityRights toolkit of the World Health Organization on mental disorders to train health professionals in Brazil. Method: it is a methodological study divided into three stages. The modules were translated from the original language (English) to the target language (Brazilian Portuguese) in the first stage. In the second, the translation was assessed by a committee of judges with seven experts. In the third stage, the assessment was conducted by mental health professionals (nurses, psychologists, and lawyers), in which seven mental health professionals participated. They assessed the material using the Suitability Assessment of Materials instrument. Results: in the assessment conducted by the experts (n=7), 8 items assessed obtained 100% approval and the other 6 items obtained lower approvals, with a total approval of 92%. Regarding the assessment by health professionals (n=7), 2 items had a maximum approval of 100% and the other had the approval of 86% each, with a total approval of 88%. Conclusion: based on the results, it is considered that this module is adapted to the Brazilian culture and can be used to train Brazilian health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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This review study aimed to determine the relationship between exposure to smoke from biomass burning in the Amazon rain forest and its implications on human health in that region in Brazil. A nonsystematic review was carried out by searching PubMed, Google Scholar, SciELO, and EMBASE databases for articles published between 2005 and 2021, either in Portuguese or in English, using the search terms "biomass burning" OR "Amazon" OR "burned" AND "human health." The review showed that the negative health effects of exposure to smoke from biomass burning in the Amazon have been poorly studied in that region. There is an urgent need to identify effective public health interventions that can help improve the behavior of vulnerable populations exposed to smoke from biomass burning, reducing morbidity and mortality related to that exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

This study aimed to describe the clinical, genetic, and epidemiological features of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease (CMT) in Brazilian patients from a tertiary center, and to compare our data with previously published findings. This retrospective observational study conducted between February 2015 and July 2020 evaluated 503 patients (94 families and 192 unrelated individuals), diagnosed with CMT. Clinical and neurophysiological data were obtained from electronic medical records and blood samples were used for genetic analyses. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification was used to assess duplications/deletions in PMP22. Sanger sequencing of GJB1 was performed in cases of suspected demyelinating CMT. Targeted gene panel sequencing was used for the remaining negative demyelinating cases and all axonal CMT cases. The first decade of life was the most common period of disease onset. In all, 353 patients had demyelinating CMT, 39 had intermediate CMT, and 111 had axonal CMT. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in 197 index cases. The most common causative genes among probands were PMP22 (duplication) (n = 116, 58.88%), GJB1 (n = 23, 11.67%), MFN2 (n = 12, 6.09%), GDAP1 (n = 7, 3.55%), MPZ (n = 6, 3.05%), PMP22 (point mutation) (n = 6, 3.05%), NEFL (n = 3, 1.52%), SBF2 (n = 3, 1.52%), and SH3TC2 (n = 3, 1.52%). Other identified variants were ≤1% of index cases. This study provides further data on the frequency of CMT subtypes in a Brazilian clinical‐based population and highlights the importance of rarer and previously undiagnosed variants in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describing the development process of a rigid frame wheelchair using user-centered and open innovation approaches, as envisaged by the WHO Wheelchair Guidelines. Unstructured interviews and group discussions with conveniently sampled active wheelchair users oriented the initial brief, product design and selection. The initially approved prototype was subject to ISO 7176 tests, leading to further product adjustments. The long-term follow-up was inclusive of a new group of purposively selected active wheelchair users and measured user satisfaction and safety, as well as user mobility and wheelchair fitting. Data on user satisfaction, safety and effectiveness was produced using QUEST 2.0 and WHO Wheelchair Service Training Package's forms and checklists in Portuguese. Iterative design and selection led to a prototype that was found appropriate by multiple stakeholders. ISO testing ensured its safety and durability. Follow-up trials included 40 active wheelchair users, who used the studied wheelchair for at least two months. They were 80% male, on average 36.3 years old, and had received their rigid frame wheelchair approximately 4.7 years after disability onset. 92.5% of them had SCI, 7.5% had bilateral transfemoral amputations. Users' assessments showed satisfaction with products (4.4) and services (4.1). Users spent an average of 4.2 h/day sat in their wheelchairs. 7.5% and 20% of users reported pressure sores and falls, respectively. A user-centered, open innovation approach led to the development of a good quality, affordable, and acceptable rigid frame wheelchair model that increased the range of manual wheelchairs available through the Brazilian public healthcare system. The feedback of rehabilitation professionals with respect to new products' features is fundamental in order to understand how these devices will be adequately serviced and delivered to users. Engaging users of assistive products and rehabilitation professionals in developing new and innovative products facilitates the iteration and selection of the best project alternatives and saves considerable time and resources. Rehabilitation professionals are in the best position to work with user of assistive products and other stakeholders, such as the industry and research and development centres, to identify the impact of new assistive products in users' functionality, acknowledging their conditions and environments and exploring their potential. Working with users and other stakeholders from different backgrounds and areas of expertise makes the moto "Nothing about us, without us" real. Working towards improving functionality often requires developers to challenge the usual top-down development process in order to adopt a user-centered perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Travisia Johnston, 1840 is the only genus of the family Travisiidae Hartmann-Schröder, 1971. Travisiid species have body relatively short, papillated, fusiform, often tapered anteriorly and posteriorly, and swollen medially. They are found mainly in deep-sea sediments. Several faunistic accounts from different locations in the Brazilian coast have included records of Travisia species that need to be reassessed. The aim of this study was to describe Travisia araciae n. sp., a new species from Campos Basin, off Rio de Janeiro, Southern Brazil. The new species differs from other similar species by having 23 pairs of branchiae from chaetiger 2, and interramal pores from chaetiger 1. An updated key to identification for all species in the genus is also included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

To support sperm production, fish testes undergo intense tissue remodelling, with endocrine, paracrine and autocrine signals regulating gonad physiology. The aim of this study was to investigate the testicular expression of insulin-like growth factor (Igf) 1 and Igf2 during spermatogenesis, and their relationship with cell proliferation and apoptosis throughout the reproductive cycle. The study was performed in male Hypostomus garmani , a catfish living in headwater rivers of the São Francisco River basin, Brazil. Spermatogenesis was analysed using histology, morphometry, immunohistochemistry and terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP–digoxigenin nick end-labelling (TUNEL) analysis at different maturity stages. The results showed the proliferation of spermatogonia throughout the reproductive cycle, with a higher rate during the ripe stage. Germ and Sertoli cells expressed Igf1 at all stages of testicular maturity, Igf2 was predominant at the ripe stage and both Igf1 and Igf2 occurred at the spent stage. Caspase-3 and TUNEL analysis revealed a higher rate of apoptosis at the spent stage associated with reduced expression of Igf1 and Igf2. Sertoli cell proliferation was associated with spermatogonia and spermatocyte cysts at different stages of the reproductive cycle. Together, the data support a proliferative role for Igf1 and Igf2 in regulating testicular apoptosis in H. garmani , with cyclical variation in their expression during gonad maturation. Sperm production and male fertility depend on several factors in addition to testosterone. In this study we investigated the insulin-like growth factors that are important regulators of testicular function and found that they can control the proliferation and death of germ cells during the reproductive cycle in a fish species. These results can be applied to fish farming in order to increase the production of fish for human consumption and the conservation of endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The decline in Amazonian deforestation rates and biomass burning activity (2001–2012) has been shown to reduce air pollutant emissions (e.g., aerosols) and improve regional air quality. However, in the Cerrado region (savannah grasslands in northeastern Brazil), satellite observations reveal increases in fire activity and tropospheric column nitrogen dioxide (an ozone precursor) during the burning season (August‐October, 2005–2016), which have partially offset these air quality benefits. Simulations from a 3‐D global chemistry transport model (CTM) capture this increase in NO2 with a surface increase of ~1 ppbv per decade. As there are limited long‐term observational tropospheric ozone records, we utilize the well‐evaluated CTM to investigate changes in ozone. Here, the CTM suggests that Cerrado region surface ozone is increasing by ~10 ppbv per decade. If left unmitigated, these positive fire‐sourced ozone trends will substantially increase the regional health risks and impacts from expected future enhancements in South American biomass burning activity under climate change. Key Point: Savannah‐type fires in the Cerrado, northeastern Brazil, have increased emissions of ozone precursor gases degrading air quality [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization and deforestation have important impacts on atmospheric particulate matter (PM) over Amazonia. This study presents observations and analysis of PM 1 concentration, composition, and optical properties in central Amazonia during the dry season, focusing on the anthropogenic impacts. The primary study site was located 70 km downwind of Manaus, a city of over 2 million people in Brazil, as part of the GoAmazon2014/5 experiment. A high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) provided data on PM 1 composition, and aethalometer measurements were used to derive the absorption coefficient babs,BrC of brown carbon (BrC) at 370 nm. Non-refractory PM 1 mass concentrations averaged 12.2 µ g m -3 at the primary study site, dominated by organics (83 %), followed by sulfate (11 %). A decrease in babs,BrC was observed as the mass concentration of nitrogen-containing organic compounds decreased and the organic PM 1 O:C ratio increased, suggesting atmospheric bleaching of the BrC components. The organic PM 1 was separated into six different classes by positive-matrix factorization (PMF), and the mass absorption efficiency Eabs associated with each factor was estimated through multivariate linear regression of babs,BrC on the factor loadings. The largest Eabs values were associated with urban (2.04±0.14 m 2 g -1) and biomass-burning (0.82±0.04 to 1.50±0.07 m 2 g -1) sources. Together, these sources contributed at least 80 % of babs,BrC while accounting for 30 % to 40 % of the organic PM 1 mass concentration. In addition, a comparison of organic PM 1 composition between wet and dry seasons revealed that only part of the 9-fold increase in mass concentration between the seasons can be attributed to biomass burning. Biomass-burning factor loadings increased by 30-fold, elevating its relative contribution to organic PM 1 from about 10 % in the wet season to 30 % in the dry season. However, most of the PM 1 mass (>60 %) in both seasons was accounted for by biogenic secondary organic sources, which in turn showed an 8-fold seasonal increase in factor loadings. A combination of decreased wet deposition and increased emissions and oxidant concentrations, as well as a positive feedback on larger mass concentrations are thought to play a role in the observed increases. Furthermore, fuzzy c -means clustering identified three clusters, namely "baseline", "event", and "urban" to represent different pollution influences during the dry season. The baseline cluster, representing the dry season background, was associated with a mean mass concentration of 9±3 µ g m -3. This concentration increased on average by 3 µ g m -3 for both the urban and the event clusters. The event cluster, representing an increased influence of biomass burning and long-range transport of African volcanic emissions, was characterized by remarkably high sulfate concentrations. The urban cluster, representing the influence of Manaus emissions on top of the baseline, was characterized by an organic PM 1 composition that differed from the other two clusters. The differences discussed suggest a shift in oxidation pathways as well as an accelerated oxidation cycle due to urban emissions, in agreement with findings for the wet season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The mitogenome of T. nataliae is highly conserved, except for the control region (CR). • Length heteroplasmy in CR is common in T. nataliae. • Six different CR haplotypes were recovery, varying in size and content. The evolution of mitochondrial genomes in the stingless bees is surprisingly dynamic, making them a model system to understand mitogenome structure, function, and evolution. Out of the seven mitogenomes available in this group, five exhibit atypical characteristics, including extreme rearrangements, rapid evolution and complete mitogenome duplication. To further explore the mitogenome diversity in these bees, we utilized isolated mtDNA and Illumina sequencing to assemble the complete mitogenome of Trigonisca nataliae , a species found in Northern Brazil. The mitogenome of T. nataliae was highly conserved in gene content and structure when compared to Melipona species but diverged in the control region (CR). Using PCR amplification, cloning and Sanger sequencing, six different CR haplotypes, varying in size and content, were recovery. These findings indicate that heteroplasmy, where different mitochondrial haplotypes coexist within individuals, occurs in T. nataliae. Consequently, we argue that heteroplasmy might indeed be a common phenomenon in bees that could be associated with variations in mitogenome size and challenges encountered during the assembly process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coffee growing in the state of Espírito Santo has some peculiarities that differ from the other regions producing Arabica coffee in Brazil because it has a diversity of edaphoclimatic conditions that influence the final quality of the bean. This study aimed to demonstrate and quantify the effect of solar radiation and of different forms of wet process on the final quality of Arabica coffee in crops located in the altitude range of 950 meters, in order to understand what would be the best wet processing methods for the coffee cultivated to the East (sun-grown) and coffee cultivated to the South-Southeast (shade-grown). The results indicate that shading has a significant effect on the final quality of the Arabica coffee, as well as the type of wet process used to process the beans after harvest. Therefore, there is a need to study in depth the factors related to the processing, edaphoclimatic, and relief conditions inherent to mountain coffee cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to identify the main factors for the internationalization of Brazilian soccer teams via the strategic networks and institutional view approaches. The literature review unveils that ties and connections to the access and acquisitions of inimitable resources, learning races and being a leader or occupying an important position in a network are the main factors for the network formation to achieve internationalization. We adopted the single case study method, and data collection was done by in depth-interviews with ten key respondents. The main findings revealed that resource acquisition capabilities, the organization's size, brand and image reputation and institutional environment are relevant factors for the internationalization of a firm by networks. As a theoretical contribution, firms that have strong brand and image reputation with resources that will strength network are an important factor for a firm entering a network or developing one. Regarding managerial perspective, a main contribution is to propose a sequence of factors to be used in a specific way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A stroke can cause alterations in thermal sensitivity. OBJECTIVE: to verify the conditions of body temperature in hemiplegic patients after stroke as compared to healthy individuals, as well as establish relations between thermal sensitivity and gender, age, Body Mass Index (BMI), plegic side, time after stroke, reports of thermal alterations and the motricity of patients with stroke sequelae. METHODS:This cross-sectional study included 100 patients (55.6±13 years) with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke sequelae with unilateral hemiparesis and thirty healthy subjects (55±12.9 years). Individuals with nervous peripheral lesions, diabetes, peripheral vascular diseases or tumors were not included in this study. The volunteers underwent axillary temperature evaluations with the use of a cutaneous thermometer and evaluations of cutaneous temperature of hands and feet as measured by infrared thermography captured by an infrared sensor (ThermaCAMTM SC 500-FLIR Systems). The mean temperature (°C) was analyzed with the SigmaStat 3.5 statistical package. RESULTS: The results have shown that healthy individuals have similar temperatures on either side of the body. The hemiplegic subjects presented a lower temperature on the plegic side and compared to the healthy subjects, both feet of the hemiparetic individuals were colder. The results have also shown that age, body mass index, and the time after stroke have no influence on the alterations in temperature. Regarding the paretic side, individuals with hemiplegia on the right side (right foot) had a lower temperature than those affected on the left side. Motricity was not related to any difference in temperature between the limbs and the reports of temperature differences had no relation with the actual differences found in the study. CONCLUSIONS: Healthy individuals have temperature symmetry between between sides of the body, while individuals with stroke sequelae present lower temperature in the paretic side, especially on their feet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Purpose: The aim is to analyze rehabilitation services provided by a mobile rehabilitation clinic (MU) in nine regions of the State of São Paulo, demonstrating the distribution of orthoses, prostheses and other mobility aids for persons with physical disabilities according to age groups and impairments, as well as the number of persons with physical disabilities as estimated by Brazilian official data sources. Method: The number of persons with disabilities in each region was obtained through estimations from the 2010 Brazilian IBGE Census. The number of assistive technologies suppliers and technicians were provided by the Brazilian Technical Orthopedics Association (ABOTEC). Patients were referred to the MU by Regional Health Departments. After examination of a multidisciplinary team, assistive devices are prescribed and delivered according to patients' needs. Data on patients were also assessed according to questionnaires on their age, diagnosis, gender, marital status and education level. Results: From 2009 to 2011, the MU went through 15 000 km providing rehabilitation services through the Public Health System to 1801 patients. Additionally, 3328 devices were delivered in this period. Different age, diagnosis, gender, marital status and schooling profiles are highlighted in each of the analyzed regions. Conclusion: Data on patients' profiles were made available through services provided by the MU - including the average index of 1.85 devices delivered to each patient and demand projections - which can be used in the planning of public policies. The MU made rehabilitation services more accessible, trained professionals, raised awareness on the correct delivery and use of assistive devices, and identified and organized people's demand in each region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, which is transmitted by triatomine vectors. The northeastern region of Brazil is endemic for Chagas disease and has the largest diversity of triatomine species. T. cruzi development in its triatomine vector depends on diverse factors, including the composition of bacterial gut microbiota. Methods: We characterized the triatomines captured in the municipality of Russas (Ceará) by sequencing the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The composition of the bacterial community in the gut of peridomestic Triatoma brasiliensis and Triatoma pseudomaculata was investigated using culture independent methods based on the amplification of the 16S rRNA gene by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), DNA fragment cloning, Sanger sequencing and 454 pyrosequencing. Additionally, we identified TcI and TcII types of T. cruzi by sequencing amplicons from the gut metagenomic DNA with primers for the mini-exon gene. Results: Triatomines collected in the peridomestic ecotopes were diagnosed as T. pseudomaculata and T. brasiliensis by comparing their COI sequence with GenBank. The rate of infection by T. cruzi in adult triatomines reached 80% for T. pseudomaculata and 90% for T. brasiliensis. According to the DNA sequences from the DGGE bands, the triatomine gut microbiota was primarily composed of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. However, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were also detected, although in much lower proportions. Serratia was the main genus, as it was encountered in all samples analyzed by DGGE and 454 pyrosequencing. Members of Corynebacterinae, a suborder of the Actinomycetales, formed the next most important group. The cloning and sequencing of full-length 16S rRNA genes confirmed the presence of Serratia marcescens, Dietzia sp., Gordonia terrae, Corynebacterium stationis and Corynebacterium glutamicum. Conclusions: The study of the bacterial microbiota in the triatomine gut has gained increased attention because of the possible role it may play in the epidemiology of Chagas disease by competing with T. cruzi. Culture independent methods have shown that the bacterial composition of the microbiota in the guts of peridomestic triatomines is made up by only few bacterial species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Background: In recent years, there has been renewed interest in using robotics in bariatric surgery for the treatment of morbid obesity. However, the high cost of a robotic surgical system has hindered its widespread use in developing countries. This study aims to compare the rate of morbidity, weight loss, and relative costs between laparoscopic (LSG) and robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy (RSG) performed for the treatment of obesity in a single center in Brazil. Methods: From January 2011 to March 2013, 48 severely obese patients underwent either LSG or RSG at our institution and were prospectively followed up for 12 months. Patients were free to choose either approach and were informed of any extra costs that may be incurred Results: Thirty-two patients underwent LSG and 16 patients, RSG. No significant differences were observed between LSG and RSG groups regarding age, sex, BMI, incidence of comorbidities, duration of surgery, and length of hospital stay. Also, there were no significant between-group differences in BMI values evaluated at 6 and 12 months after surgery. Surgical costs were almost twice as high and total hospital costs were approximately 50 % higher in the robotic approach compared to the laparoscopic approach Conclusion: Both RSG and LSG had excellent and similar post-operative clinical outcomes. However, the much higher costs of purchasing and maintaining the robotic system are still precluding the use of RSG as a routine approach in the treatment of morbid obesity in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]