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University management seeks to achieve the objectives established by higher education's institutions, including their third mission, which corresponds to the transfer of research results into the industry; in this regard, emerging technologies play an important role to solve problems identified in the industry. Emerging technologies are those found in the embryonic stage of its life cycle. Although they have features that make them difficult to manage, they can quickly change the dynamics of the market. That is why it is necessary to analyze the management process of these technologies at the university level, due to, in many cases, it is in high education institutions where these technologies arise. This paper presents results of a study aiming at analyzing the process of university management of emerging technologies in a developing country, identifying gaps in such process in relation to referent countries, and proposing recommendations to reduce those gaps. The research methodology included benchmarking to identify best practices concerning referent universities and a case study in which a university research group in a developing country was analyzed. Results indicate that universities of developing countries acknowledge the importance of managing emerging technologies, which should lead to structural changes in the Systems of Science and Technology as well as in the higher education's institutions and in the management of the research groups that generate and use these technologies. However, the analysis identified some key success factors of referent universities to be either absent or acting deficiently in the focal case studied. Finally, some recommendations are proposed to reduce the identified gaps.

Breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) is the best methodology to estimate the fertility potential of future bulls and performing indirect selection for their fertility. However, the outcome of the BSE is influenced by several factors, including genetics, environment, and BSE guidelines. Herein, in this retrospective study, our first aim was to characterize the reasons for failure in 46,566 BSE from 2-year-old beef Bos indicus bulls (Nellore) born from 1997 to 2018. Our second aim was to determine whether or not BSE was associated with reproductive potential improvement of the bulls over the years. Due to changes in the BSE criteria, we used the same dataset, but only bulls born from 2002 to 2018 were included resulting in 35,856 BSE. For the second aim, the effect of the year and farm were included in the model of the multivariate logistic regression. We also determined if the main reasons for BSE failure decreased over time. Bulls were classified as approved (satisfactory potential breeders and qualified for natural breeding service) and not approved (deferred and unsatisfactory potential breeders). The reasons for BSE failure in Nellore bulls were poor semen quality (53.1 %) and physical defects (46.9 %), with the main physical defect being testis abnormalities (19.7 %). The overall percentage of bulls approved each year was 87.1 %, with no improvement over the years of study. However, the percentage of approved bulls at the first BSE increased over the years (P < 0.05). This increase was evident by a reduction in the difference between the overall percentage of the bulls approved vs the percentage of bulls approved at the first BSE. Furthermore, there was an increase in the percentage of bulls classified as satisfactory potential breeders in the BSE and an evident decrease in the percentage of bulls qualified only for natural breeding service (P < 0.05). In addition, an increase of the scrotal circumference (SC) of the herd was found (P < 0.05). These results indicate the overall quality of the bulls improved over the years. To associate and identify the main sperm abnormalities, 3461 not approved bulls were clustered. The most frequent defects were strongly coiled tail spermatozoa, proximal droplets, and acrosomal defects. Overall, there was no change in the frequency of bulls not approved by the sperm morphology nor the frequency of the main sperm abnormalities over the years. Nevertheless, the frequency of the defects remained very low, implying they were controlled. Additionally, abnormalities in the testis decreased over the years and was associated with the increase in the SC of the herd and a decrease of culled bulls due to low SC. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is an association between implementation and use of BSE with improvements in the reproductive quality of future generation bulls. • Records of 20 years and 46,566 BSE from a seedstock herd in Brazil were investigated. • About 14 % of the bulls fail to be approved in the BSE at two years of age. • Semen quality (53 %) & physical defects (47 %) were the most common causes of failure. • Testicular abnormalities decreased, & scrotal circumference increased over the years. • BSE was associated with increased percentage of bulls approved at first BSE over years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Smoothed cepstral peak prominence (CPPS) and harmonics-to-noise ratio (HNR) are acoustic measures related to the periodicity, harmonicity, and noise components of an acoustic signal. To date, there is little evidence about the advantages of CPPS over HNR in voice diagnostics. Recent studies indicate that voice fundamental frequency (F0) and intensity (sound pressure level [SPL]), sample duration (DUR), vowel context (speech vs. sustained phonation), and syllable stress (SS) may influence CPPS and HNR results. The scope of this work was to investigate the effects of voice F0 and SPL, DUR, SS, and token on CPPS and HNR in dysphonic voices. Method: In this retrospective study, 27 Brazilian Portuguese speakers with voice disorders were investigated. Recordings of sustained vowels (SVs) /a:/ and manually extracted vowels (EVs) /a/ from Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice sentences were acoustically analyzed with the Praat program. Results: There was a highly significant effect of F0, SPL, and DUR on both CPPS and HNR (p < 0.001), whereas SS and vowel context significantly affected CPPS only (p < 0.05). Higher SPL, F0, and lower DUR were related to higher CPPS and HNR. SVs moderately-to-highly correlated with EVs for CPPS, whereas HNR had few and moderate correlations. In addition, CPPS and HNR highly correlated in SVs and seven EVs (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Speaking prosodic variations of F0, SPL, and DUR influenced both CPPS and HNR measures and led to acoustic differences between sustained and excised vowels, especially in CPPS. Vowel context, prosodic factors, and token type should be controlled for in clinical acoustic voice assessment.

Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania parasites, is a neglected tropical disease and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is the most common form. Despite the associated toxicity and adverse effects, Meglumine antimoniate (MA) remains the first-choice treatment for CL in Brazil, pressing the need for the development of better alternatives. Bacterial NanoCellulose (BNC), a biocompatible nanomaterial, has unique properties regarding wound healing. In a previous study, we showed that use of topical BNC + systemic MA significantly increased the cure rate of CL patients, compared to treatment with MA alone. Herein, we performed a study comparing the combination of a wound dressing (BNC or placebo) plus systemic MA versus systemic MA alone, in CL caused by Leishmania braziliensis. We show that patients treated with the combination treatment (BNC or placebo) + MA showed improved cure rates and decreased need for rescue treatment, although differences compared to controls (systemic MA alone) were not significant. However, the overall time-to-cure was significantly lower in groups treated with the combination treatment (BNC+ systemic MA or placebo + systemic MA) in comparison to controls (MA alone), indicating that the use of a wound dressing improves CL treatment outcome. Assessment of the immune response in peripheral blood showed an overall downmodulation in the inflammatory landscape and a significant decrease in the production of IL-1a (p < 0.05) in patients treated with topical BNC + systemic MA. Our results show that the application of wound dressings to CL lesions can improve chemotherapy outcome in CL caused by L. braziliensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disseminated leishmaniasis is an emerging clinical form of Leishmania braziliensis infection. Evidence shows that co-infection by L. braziliensis and intestinal helminths does not affect clinical manifestations or response to therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients. We evaluated whether co-infection was associated with those aspects in disseminated leishmaniasis patients in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Maternal & Child Health Journal is the property of Springer Nature 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: Despite the preventive policies adopted, reduction in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been limited. The risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has increased among the most vulnerable population groups, including MSM. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of HCV infection and to assess risky practices among MSM from 12 Brazilian cities. Methods: This study was carried out from June to December 2016 using respondent driven sampling (RDS). Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire to collect behavioral, socioeconomic, and demographic variables. In addition, the rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for HCV was offered. Positive results were sent to Instituto Adolfo Lutz for confirmation. Results: A total of 4,176 participants were recruited and 23 samples were sent for confirmation. Of these, 16 were confirmed, resulting in a prevalence of 0.7% (95% CI: 0.3%—1.7%). The Southeast region showed a prevalence of 0.9% (95% CI: 0.3—2.6), followed by the South region, with 0.6% (95% CI: 0.2—2.1). The Northeast region had a prevalence of 0.3% (95% CI: 0.1—1.0) and the Midwest 0.1% (95% CI: 0.0—0.7). No positive cases were found in the North. Single men aged 40 years or older were the majority of participants exposed to HCV. High levels of alcohol consumption, illicit drug use, irregular condom use, in addition to infection with other STIs, were associated with exposure to HCV. Conclusions: STIs continue to be important health problems in Brazil and globally. Many STIs are inapparent for many years until they bring more serious consequences. Extra investment in HCV is also warranted, given that it can be eliminated. Relying solely on clinical data to provide information about inapparent infection, especially in stigmatized populations, will make that goal more difficult to achieve. Surveillance studies, such as the one reported here need to be repeated over time to demonstrate trends and to provide information for evaluation, program and policies. Investments in the most vulnerable populations are critical to achieve the World Health Organization global health goals including the elimination of viral hepatitis by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maclura is a plant genus little known and used, species of which have been mainly used in the recovery of soils, for medicinal purposes such as dental infection treatments, and as wood for making furniture and construction. The overexploitation of this genus has placed certain species in endangered extinction status in some countries, such as Brazil. In addition, the scarce research and information limit the development, cultivation, and management of its species regarding their biochemical composition, which includes bioactive compounds such as the phenolic and flavonoid compounds found in some species such as M. pomifera, M. cochinchinensis, and M. tinctoria. The plants' antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities have been attributed to these compounds. Other biochemical components such as ashes, insoluble lignin, holocellulose, and the high content of lipids and carbohydrates have been identified to be used to produce biofuels, with characteristics very similar to fuels derived from petroleum. This review aims to analyze the current knowledge on the plant genus Maclura, exploring its biochemical compounds and potential applications, including as a food additive, antioxidant supplement, in agriculture, for therapeutic purposes, aquaculture, and the cosmetic and industrial sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Iberoamericana de Educación (Version impresa) is the property of Organizacion de Estados Iberoamericanos (OEI) 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.)

Located in the center of the largest river basin in the world, the State of Amazonas in Brazil has an extensive network of more than 20 thousand kilometers of navigable waterways, which is the main mode of transportation between localities, both for cargo and passengers. The region is practically disconnected from the rest of the country due to the lack of roads. Thus, the Amazon River network acted as an efficient means of transmission of the new coronavirus (COVID-19), rapidly transforming the region into an epicenter of the pandemic with one of the highest infection rates in Brazil. Despite the adoption of national and state measures to combat new infections, the situation continued to deteriorate for reasons still under investigation. Given this scenario, this work aims to identify possible infection risks in typical passenger vessels used in the Brazilian Amazon. Three case studies of different passenger vessels were considered, discussing possible scenarios that could allow the spread of COVID and proposing some recommendations for infection prevention. It is hoped that this communication will contribute to the dissemination of information related to the typical means of long-distance passenger transport in the Amazon, to the planning of infectious disease prevention strategies on board regional ships and to ensure a sustainable future for the Amazonian population. Furthermore, this research aims to contribute to the sustainable development goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda on health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centropomus undecimalis (common snook) and Centropomus parallelus (fat snook) have a wide distribution from southern Florida to southern Brazil. Due to their value as a food source, these species have been heavily exploited through predatory fishing, posing a conservation challenge. To assess their genetic diversity and population structure, we used microsatellite markers. Our findings revealed genetic differences among populations of the same species, highlighting the need for targeted conservation efforts. The microsatellite markers proved effective in assessing genetic variability, providing valuable insights for management and conservation. The parameters Ho (observed heterozygosity) and He (expected heterozygosity) were reliable indicators of genetic diversity, and specific loci showed varying allele numbers across populations. Our study contributes to understanding population genetics in these snook species and supports their conservation. Despite not being classified as endangered, genetic differences among populations emphasize the importance of considering population-level characteristics in conservation strategies. This research lays the foundation for future studies and actions aimed at preserving these valuable fish species. In summary, our study demonstrates the significance of microsatellite markers in assessing genetic variability and population structure in common snook and fat snook, informing conservation efforts for these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to determinate the frequency of this association and compare the features of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) with and without associated autoimmune diseases (AD) in a Latin American (LATAM) population in clinical practice. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with NMOSD according to the 2015 diagnostic criteria. Patients from Argentina (n=77), Brazil (n=46), and Venezuela (n=17) were enrolled and classified into two groups as follows: with AD or without AD. Clinical, paraclinical (including aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4-ab) status), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and prognosis data were analyzed and compared. Kaplan-Meier (KM) and the Nelson-Aalen estimator analyses were performed to estimate both time and the cumulative hazard risk of disability reaching an EDSS≥4; and time for the first recurrence. Results: Out of 140 patients, 33 (23.5%) patients had associated an AD at presentation. The most frequent associated AD was Hashimoto disease (n=10) followed by lupus (n=7) and Sjogren's syndrome (n=6). However, rituximab use (42.4% vs. 21.5%, p=0.02), female gender (82.2% vs. 100%, p=0.006), corticospinal lesions on MRI (0% vs. 12.5%, p=0.01) at onset, and positivity for antinuclear antibodies (21.2% vs. 48.4%, p=0.03) were significantly associated with NMOSD patients with AD in comparison to NMOSD patients without AD. No differences were found in other clinical and paraclinical aspects between groups. KM and Nelson-Aalen estimator analyses did not show differences between groups. Conclusion: NMOSD patients associated with AD were observed in 23.5%. In addition, NMOSD patients with and without associated AD were similar in most evaluated features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies based on the effect of cold plasma excitation frequency on the physicochemical properties of unconventional starches, such as Goeppertia allouia (popularly known as aria in Brazil), have not been extensively found in the scientific literature. Treatments using 5 different excitation frequencies from 50 to 550 Hz were performed on a dielectric barrier cold plasma equipment operated at 20 kV for 15 min. The morphological and physicochemical changes in starches were investigated by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The content of amylose, reducing sugars, carbonyl, and carboxyl groups, as well as the starch digestibility, gel hydration, pasting, and thermal properties of native and treated starches were investigated. The native starch presented C-type polymorphism; however, the starch treated at 200 Hz presented higher proportion of A-type/B-type crystals and crystallinity. These changes in the phase composition and crystallinity directly affected the physicochemical properties of the aria starch, increasing its hydration properties and content of resistant starch. In general, the excitation frequency of cold plasma can be used to modulate the physicochemical behavior of starches, being considered a green and non-destructive technique. Thus, the application of cold plasma showed to be an important tool to obtain tunable polysaccharides from aria for a wide range of industrial purposes, such as in food, chemical, or pharmaceutical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Backpacks used by children is a global concern, because may cause musculoskeletal discomforts and pain. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to test the usability and effects on gait kinematics wearing the Trunkpack versus a traditional backpack and no backpack. METHODS: Twenty-four children (9 to 11 years old) from a public school participated in this study. The usability was evaluated after a five-week testing period using a questionnaire. Gait kinematics was evaluated (Vicon) when the children were wearing a standard backpack, an optimized backpack (Trunkpack), and no backpack. Both backpacks were loaded with 10% of body weight. RESULTS: Was observed more trunk, hip and knee flexion when the children carried a standard backpack in comparison using the Trunkpack and not carrying a backpack (p < 0.01). The Trunkpack and no backpack were similar. The Trunkpack was well accepted by the schoolchildren (81% positive responses), 79% liked the head opening, 88% liked the waist straps, and 83% liked the facility to put and take objects in and out of the Trunkpack. CONCLUSION: Trunkpack requires less postural adjustments during gait than a standard backpack. Gait kinematics with the Trunkpack was comparable to the gait without carrying a backpack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, Leishmania braziliensis is the main causative agent of the neglected tropical disease, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). CL presents on a spectrum of disease severity with a high rate of treatment failure. Yet the parasite factors that contribute to disease presentation and treatment outcome are not well understood, in part because successfully isolating and culturing parasites from patient lesions remains a major technical challenge. Here we describe the development of selective whole genome amplification (SWGA) for Leishmania and show that this method enables culture-independent analysis of parasite genomes obtained directly from primary patient skin samples, allowing us to circumvent artifacts associated with adaptation to culture. We show that SWGA can be applied to multiple Leishmania species residing in different host species, suggesting that this method is broadly useful in both experimental infection models and clinical studies. SWGA carried out directly on skin biopsies collected from patients in Corte de Pedra, Bahia, Brazil, showed extensive genomic diversity. Finally, as a proof-of-concept, we demonstrated that SWGA data can be integrated with published whole genome data from cultured parasite isolates to identify variants unique to specific geographic regions in Brazil where treatment failure rates are known to be high. SWGA provides a relatively simple method to generate Leishmania genomes directly from patient samples, unlocking the potential to link parasite genetics with host clinical phenotypes. Author summary: Leishmania braziliensis is the main cause of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Brazil. Due to limitations in culturing, it is important to study the parasite in a culture-independent manner. We use selective whole genome amplification (SWGA) to explore parasite genomic diversity directly from patient biopsies. This method is inexpensive and can be broadly used to generate parasite genome sequence data sampled from different Leishmania species infecting different mammalian hosts. We found high diversity among the L. braziliensis genomes from Bahia, Brazil, which correlated with geographic location. By integrating these data with publicly available genome sequences from other studies spanning four countries in South America, we identified variants unique to Northeast Brazil that may be linked to high regional rates of treatment failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of fluids is the most frequently used therapy for circulatory shock. Its inadequate use has adverse effects, requiring hemodynamic goals, highlighting the use of pulse pressure variation due to its high accuracy. One of the problems related to this method is the difficulties in measuring the pulse pressure variation (PPV) in most monitors for clinical use. We assessed the qualitative aspects of perceived usability of a smartphone application (app), which, based on a photograph of the patient's arterial pulse wave, can help measure PPV and help in the diagnosis and management of shock cases. Methods: To assess the software perceived usability, we used the System Usability Scale (SUS) applied to 30 physicians in 2 tertiary hospitals in Brazil. The software accuracy was measured using a sequence of 3 images with different values ​​of pulse pressure variation, comparing the obtained values ​​ with the gold standard. The educational interface of the app was evaluated qualitativelyfrom the spontaneous testimonies of the selected test participants.The project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Centro Universitário Christus. Results: The analysis showed an average SUS of 86.3 points on a scale of 1–100 (above 80.3 is considered the best in terms of interface). The assessment of the application's accuracy when evaluating pulse pressure variation showed that the average variation of the measurements taken by the participants was small, with a good measure of repeatability and reproducibility. The app's educational interface was qualitatively evaluated, being praised by the users. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the developed mobile application showed excellent qualitative aspects of perceived usability results. More studies with this app will be required to evaluate the potential to help professionals with hemodynamic evaluation in emergency and intensive care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we discuss how the Brazilian artist Denilson Baniwa redefines the relationship between Brazilian modernism and indigenous cultures in his work. The article is divided into four sections. The first section examines the Eurocentric perspective of indigenous art and how non-European artifacts were historically evaluated based on binary categories that discriminated between true art and utilitarian objects without artistic value. The second section briefly presents the modernist movement in Brazil. The third section discusses the influence of modernist primitivism on several Brazilian modernists. Finally, the last section reflects on how Baniwa deconstructs modernism through his work, highlighting some of his selected works and proposing a re-antropophagy movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

A documentary review was carried out on the production and publication of research papers on sustainable development indicators in Latin America and the Caribbean. The bibliometric analysis proposed in this document was to know the main characteristics of the volume of publications registered in Scopus database during the period 2016-2021, achieving the identification of 1182 publications in total. The information provided by the said platform was organized using tables and figures, categorizing the information by Year of Publication, Country of Origin, Area of Knowledge and Type of Publication. Once these characteristics were described, a qualitative analysis was used to refer to the position of different authors on the proposed topic. Among the main findings of this research, it is found that Brazil, with 519 publications, was the country with the highest scientific production registered in the name of authors affiliated with institutions of that country. The Area of Knowledge that made the most significant contribution to the construction of bibliographic material referring to the study of Sustainable Development Indicators in Latin America and the Caribbean was Environmental Sciences, with 608 published documents, and the Type of Publication that was most used during the period indicated above was the Journal Article, representing 74% of the total scientific production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Web applications and information systems are predominantly constituted as platforms for acquiring data and services over the Internet. Such applications integrate a technological context filled with intelligent devices interactive amongst themselves, connected to the network, hardware, and software, and accessible to the most varied social segments. OBJECTIVES: This article aims to present a digital mechanism based on product marketing for the acquisition of personal data used by a company in the cosmetics industry; to characterize privacy and data protection in view of the regulatory acts prevailing in Brazil; as well as to discuss how such scenarios affect the consumer. METHODS: We performed a bibliographic survey with a qualitative approach to the information collected, and used a digital platform for commercial operation as object to analysis. RESULTS: We confirmed the use of a digital platform, accessible by different electronic devices, to spread commercial content reaching a considerable volume of users, which then propagated it. We verified an indirect relationship of supply of goods through the transfer of identification, communication and location data. We identified users being directed to the Terms of Promotion and User Privacy Policy, as well as different media resources aiding their understanding. CONCLUSION: The customer's vulnerability in consumer relations stands out, something increasingly frequent in digital environments, which enables a directly proportional flow of information between market and consumer. Finally, we observed that Digital Humanities constitute a broad field of research under an extensive methodological domain, due to its interdisciplinary character, for the digital study of cultural phenomena, and promote critical reflection on the effects that computational methods have on society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urgent need to curb climate change calls for an energy transition to cleaner, more resilient and sustainable solutions. Combined designs of energy storage systems and demand management strategies are becoming more frequent in the literature. However, are these solutions really sustainable from a multi-dimensional approach and in real-world applications? To answer this question, this work performs a local and scaled-up field-based evaluation of the social and environmental impacts of a pilot project in Brazil, which consists of replacing diesel generators with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in a peak power plant of a Medium Voltage (MV) commercial load. For this, the combined RCPA-LCI method is applied, which allows characterizing both energy alternatives jointly considering the Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) and the multi-dimensional evaluation perspective of the Resource Complete Potential Assessment (RCPA). Then, the scalability of this commercial solution at the national level is analyzed through two main lenses: GHG emissions reduction and job generation. The benefits are estimated at a potential 15.4 million tons of CO 2 avoided and 113 new job opportunities per year. The results demonstrate the positive socio-environmental performance of BESS-based peak plants for MV commercial applications in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the diet and the clutch size of Rhinella castaneotica from a primary forest in northern Brazil, municipality of Serra do Navio, Amapá state. A total of 100 toads (77 males and 23 females) were collected between April 2017 and March 2018 through active searches. Thirty-four individuals (34%) had a total of 870 prey items in their stomach contents. Hymenoptera and Coleoptera were the most important and numerous prey items in the diets of males and females, respectively. The niche breadth based on prey numbers was 0.24. Based on 9 females with eggs, the number of ovarian eggs ranged from 199 to 720 eggs. We conclude that R. castaneotica has a specialized diet and its clutch size is independent of the female SVL and body mass. We highlight the importance of further studies that contribute to a better understanding of the conservation status and ecological aspects of such poorly known anurans in the Amazon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids are significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents and have multiple potential health applications. Moringa oleifera is globally recognized for its nutritional and pharmacological properties, correlated to the high flavonoid content in its leaves. However, the bioactive compounds found in plants may vary according to the cultivation, origin, season, and extraction process used, making it difficult to extract reliable raw material. Hence, this study aimed to standardize the best cultivation and harvest season in Brazil and the best extraction process conditions to obtain a flavonoid-rich extract from M. oleifera as a final product. Firstly, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized to reach the highest flavonoid content by three-level factorial planning and response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal cultivation condition was mineral soil fertilizer in the drought season, and the optimized extraction was with 80% ethanol and 13.4 min of extraction time. The flavonoid-rich extract was safe and significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Lastly, the major flavonoids characterized by HPLC-ESI-QTRAP-MS/MS were compounds derived from apigenin, quercetin, and kaempferol glycosides. The results confirmed that it was possible to standardize the flavonoid-rich extract leading to a standardized and reliable raw material extracted from M. oleifera leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stick insects (Phasmatodea) are herbivorous, mostly nocturnal insects known for their camouflage specialization, constituting a moderately diverse group with around 3400 extant described species. The overall poor and often confusing fossil record of Phasmatodea, especially regarding older taxa, has muddled the knowledge of the early evolution of the lineage and hindered reliable calibration points for ordinal‐level phylogenies. The phylogenetic relationships within the order remain unresolved, but recent research sheds more light on the subject. Here we report on the oldest known fossil of Euphasmatodea, by revising the taxonomic identity of one fossil species (Eoproscopia reliquum Mendes, Vasconcelos & Oliveira) previously described as a stick grasshopper (family Proscopiidae). Based on the finding of a more complete specimen the taxon is redescribed and a new genus, Araripephasma, is erected to accommodate this species in Euphasmatodea. Araripephasma reliquum comb. nov. is a remarkably modern‐looking stick insect species that provides a new minimum age for Euphasmatodea and sets a good and reliable calibration point for phylogenetic and evolutionary studies. The implications of this rare finding for the evolutionary history of Phasmatodea are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multielement concentrations (P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Rb, and Rh) and total mercury (T-Hg) were analyzed in different organs and tissues of Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis). Samples of 27 T. inunguis specimens, maintained in the collection of the Amazonian Center for the Research and Preservation of Aquatic Mammals, were used, situated in an area highly impacted by gold mining in the northern region of the Brazilian Amazon. Samples of aquatic plants used as food by the animals were also analyzed. The elements S, Cl, K, Cr, and Mn accumulated mainly in the musculature, while Fe and Cu were more concentrated in the liver. Trace elements, such as rubidium (Rb) and rhodium (Rh), not previously reported in the organs of animals of the family Trichechidae, were also identified. The averages for T-Hg in the skin, muscle, encephalon, liver, kidney, and lung samples were, respectively, 0.1540 ± 0.1332, 0.0593 ± 0.1044, 0.0517 ± 0.0467, 0.0486 ± 0.0543, 0.0237 ± 0.0336, and 0.0013 ± 0.0032 µg.g−1. The values obtained for the vibrissae samples were below the limit of quantification, which allows for the conclusion that this tissue cannot be used as a contamination marker. It was observed that even when kept in a conservation breeding site, these animals were exposed to non-essential trace elements. Differences in the accumulation of elements were observed between the different organs and tissues analyzed. The presence of contaminants in animals that live in a preservation center, even at low levels, deserves attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • WTE assessment of biomass residue valorization pathway. • Optimization of WTE via multi-criteria decision method. • Pequi seed without extractives reported improved biochar properties. • Optimal gasification condition was obtained with O 2 /H 2 O/N 2 carrier gas. • WTE could be optimized by the seed fat extraction previously to pyrolysis. The waste-to-energy (WTE) valorization pathway of Caryocar brasiliense (pequi) seeds was investigated via pyrolysis, gasification, and transesterification to understand its potential as biochar, syngas, and biodiesel. First, the pyrolysis (300–700 °C) was conducted in N 2 atmosphere for pequi seeds (PS) and pequi seeds without its extractives (PSWE), characterizing its biochar properties. The PSWE was then gasified at 1000 °C under O 2 /N 2 , O 2 /CO 2 /N 2 and O 2 /H 2 O/N 2 atmospheres to evaluate the characteristics of the producer gas. The PS extractives were then transesterified and characterized for biodiesel production. Finally, a multiple-criteria decision analysis assessed the PS products' potential within the thermochemical routes. The results evidenced better biochar (up to 22.29% HHV enhancement, higher mass and energy yield, up to 75.9 and 85.5% reduction of O/C and H/C, respectively, and enriched N content) via PSWE pyrolysis than PS considering biofuel application and optimistic perceptions for soil amendment. This indicates that the preceding extraction of vegetal fat from PS strengthens the WTE by including further processing of extracted oil. The produced syngas under O 2 /H 2 O/N 2 gasification atmosphere showed better applicability as a biofuel (16.37 MJ·kg−1 lower heating value, 107.33% cold gas efficiency, and 113.55% carbon conversion efficiency) with up to 24% higher success rate. The transesterification of the extractives revealed its potential (98% conversion rate) for use as feedstock for in situ power generation, or blended for biodiesel production. The results provide insights into the circular economy in agro-extractivist communities that may support Brazil's small and medium agro-food industries with their energy demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through the transformation that the electrical sector has been passing by, improvements in asset management and the guarantee of sustainable and quality services have become essential aspects for power companies. Thus, the digitalization of energy utilities presents itself as an important and crucial process. A concept that involves a variety of innovative trends is the digital twin. It consists of a 3D virtual replica of existing physical objects and real-time monitoring of certain measures. By developing a digital twin in the electrical power grid, a virtual replica of the network is obtained providing network virtual maps, 3D asset models, dynamic and real-time data of grid assets, and IoT sensing. All these data can feed a platform where AI-based models and advanced field operation technologies and solutions will be applied. With a Network Digital Twin©development, applications involving on-field activities can be improved through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to enhance workforce operations. This paper discusses the best practices for the development of a digital twin for the electrical power sector. These practices were found during the development of a project carried out by Enel Distribuição São Paulo, applying a living lab concept in the densest region of Brazil. The results of this paper present 3D images captured with specialized tools, and how they influence the workforce activities of human interface operation. Furthermore, financial and operational returns are presented through a cost–benefit analysis for each relevant aspect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Advances in knowledge of the pathophysiology of COVID-19 have been acquired; however, the host factors that could explain the mild and severe forms of the disease are not fully understood. Thus, we proposed to evaluate anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and the inflammatory response of different groups of individuals, including healthcare workers (HCW), sick and dead COVID-19 patients and also recovered patients to contribute to this knowledge gap. Our objective is to relate the clinical evolution of these individuals with the level of detection and functionality of specific antibodies and with the production of inflammatory mediators. As main findings, IgA and IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 were detected in asymptomatic HCW. IFN-γ and TNF-α levels were higher in symptomatic HCWs than patients with COVID-19 and those who died. Patients who died had higher levels of IL-6, IL-10, and CCL2/MCP-1. We found an imbalance between antiviral and pro-inflammatory mediators in the groups, in which IFN-γ and TNF-α seem to be more associated with protection and IL-6 and CCL2/MCP-1 with pathology. Our work is pioneering the Brazilian population and corroborates data from people from other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The nutrient and energy content of soybean meal (SBM) is variable due to genetics, country of origin, agronomic conditions, and to a lesser extent, the solvent-extraction process. The analytical variability among and within-labs can increase the difficulty of detecting differences among sources and establish nutrient interrelationships to estimate some nutrients based on others that are less variable. Near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) can reduce laboratory analytical inconsistencies and increase the sample size for feedstuff evaluation enhancing feed formulation accuracy. The PNE system (Adisseo) has unique NIRS curves based on direct calibrations generated with in vivo data of standard chicken metabolizable energy (AME and AMEn) and amino acid (AA) digestibility methods. This study evaluated the relationship between AA concentrations and crude protein (CP) and among proximate parameters (CP, crude fiber, ether extract, nitrogen-free extract, and ash), AA concentrations, and digestibilities with AME AMEn. The PNE database used contained 77,573 samples of SBM from Argentina (9,684), Brazil (62,322), and the U.S. (5,567) scanned in diverse countries worldwide between 2018 and 2021. Correlation and regression analyses between AA and CP were conducted. The pairwise correlations (P < 0.001) between AA and CP ranged between 0.34 and 0.82. Concentrations of all AAs in SBM can be predicted (P < 0.001) from the positive linear relationships with CP content. However, all coefficients of determination (R2) were low (0.11 to 0.68). The SBM country of origin was a significant factor and interacted with CP (P < 0.001), but R2 improved only slightly when included in these linear models. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and neural networks (NN) analyses were conducted to estimate AME and AMEn based on proximate values, AA concentrations and digestibility, and country of origin. All factors were significant (P < 0.001) in the MLR models for AME (R² = 0.78, AICc = 643,940.6) and AMEn (R² = 0.77, AICc = 642,785). Additionally, to have R² below 0.80, the MLR models had collinearity for digestibility data and branched-chain AAs concentrations. The NN models had a better fit for training and validation datasets for AME (R² = 0.88, RASE = 39.96) and AMEn (R² = 0.87, RASE = 37.21). The NN models allowed us to visualize the greater importance of AA digestibility coefficients (His, Val, Trp, Cys, Arg, Leu, Thr) than the concentration of AAs or proximate values to estimate SBM energy values. In conclusion, AA concentrations of SBM cannot be accurately predicted from its CP content. The AA content of SBM varies by country of origin and may vary independently of CP content. The energy value of SBM may depend more on AA digestibility than proximate parameters. Data analytics of NIRS databases with direct calibration of in vivo parameters of energy utilization and AA digestibility elucidates relevant nutritional factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Information is lacking concerning in-hospital echocardiography analysis of COVID-19 infection in Brazil. We evaluated echocardiographic parameters to predict a composite endpoint of mortality, pulmonary thromboembolism or acute renal failure.Methods: A prospective full echocardiographic study of consecutive patients hospitalized with COVID-19, single tertiary centre in Brazil. We correlated echocardiographic findings to biomarkers, clinical information, thoracic tomography, and in-hospital composite endpoint of mortality, pulmonary thromboembolism or renal failure.Results: One hundred eleven patients from March to October 2020, 67 ± 17 years, 65 (58.5%) men, death was observed in 21/111 (18.9%) patients, 48 (43%) required mechanical ventilation, myocardial infarction occurred in 10 (9%), pulmonary thromboembolism in 7 (6.3%) patients, haemodialysis was required for 9 (9.8%). Echocardiography was normal in 51 (46%) patients, 20 (18%) presented with decreased left ventricle ejection, 18 (16.2%) had abnormal left ventricle global longitudinal strain, 35 (31%) had diastolic dysfunction, 6 (5.4%) had an E/e'ratio > 14, 19 (17.1%) presented with right ventricle dilated/dysfunction, 31 (28%) had pericardial effusion. The echocardiographic parameters did not correlate with mortality, biomarkers, clinical events. Tricuspid velocity was related to the composite endpoint of mortality, pulmonary thromboembolism or acute renal failure (p: 00.3; value: 2.65 m/s; AUC ROC curve: 0.739; sensitivity: 73.3; specificity: 66.7; CI: 0.95, inferior: 0.613; superior: 0,866).Conclusions: Among hospitalized patients with COVID-19, echocardiography was normal in 51(46%) patients, and 20 (18%) patients presented with a decreased left ventricle ejection fraction. Tricuspid velocity was related to the composite endpoint of mortality, pulmonary thromboembolism or acute renal failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to verify the effect of cash flow volatility and cash availability volatility on the capital structure of Brazilian industrial companies. Descriptive, documentary, and quantitative research were developed. The sample included 77 Brazilian industrial companies listed in Brasil, Bolsa, Balcão (B3), with data from 2014 to 2018, which generated a total of 385 observations. The economic and financial information was extracted from the Economática® database. The results show that companies with greater Cash Flow Volatility (CFV) and greater Cash Availability Volatility (CAV) have higher indebtedness levels, which are also more extensive in the short term. Furthermore, as a methodological difference, it was observed that when the Cash Flow Volatility derives from a positive trend, according to the growth of flows generated in recent periods, creditors tend to observe this favorably and provide more resources to companies under these conditions, including a longer-term for payment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Brazil using pentavalent antimony (Sbv) is associated with a high rate of failure. Miltefosine has proven efficacy for CL caused by L. braziliensis, with a cure rate (CR) of 75%. A combined treatment with granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and miltefosine could increase CR and decrease healing time. Methods A randomized, double-blind clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of miltefosine combined with topical GM-CSF (M + GM) vs miltefosine and placebo (M + P) vs Sbv in 133 patients with CL caused by L. braziliensis in Bahia, Brazil. Results The final CR at 180 days after the initiation of treatment was 44.4% in the Sbv group, 76.6% in the M + P group (P =.003 vs Sbv), and 75.6% in the M + GM group (P =.004 vs Sbv). The median healing time for cure was 102 days for the Sbv group and 60 days for both miltefosine groups (P =.0009). During the 6-month follow-up period, 4 relapses were documented: 1 in the Sbv group, 1 in the M + P group, and 2 in the M + GM group. Mild adverse events occurred in 65% of patients from the Sbv group, 76% and 79% from the M + P and M + GM groups respectively. Conclusions Miltefosine is more effective than Sbv for the treatment of CL caused by L. braziliensis in Brazil and accelerates the healing time. Association with GM-CSF does not improve therapeutic outcome. Clinical Trials Registration NCT03023111. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large and hot intrusions may imprint relatively wide aureoles of ultra‐high temperature (UHT >900°C) contact metamorphism even on granulite facies rocks at mid‐crustal levels, especially on those still somewhat hydrated rocks like biotite‐rich paragneisses. After reaching UHT conditions, even followed by rapid cooling, such contact aureoles record reaction textures and newly formed mineral assemblages. Near intrusive contacts, high‐T to UHT contact aureoles present highly recrystallized hornfelsic rocks exhibiting conchoidal fracture that may also preserve inherited features. This paper describes a contact metamorphic aureole developed under high to ultra‐high temperatures at intermediate P conditions, imposed by a mafic intrusion on granulite facies paragneiss. In the Espírito Santo State (SE Brazil), many post‐collisional intrusions (the 525–480 Ma G5 supersuite) occur in the back‐arc region of the Araçuaí orogen. Among them, a greatly homogeneous norite forms a large intrusion hosted by Al‐rich migmatitic paragneisses previously metamorphosed to granulite facies during the collisional stage. Zircon U‐Pb (SHRIMP) data yield the age of 523 ± 7 Ma for the norite crystallization. This intrusion imprinted a contact metamorphism aureole on the migmatitic paragneiss, forming Al‐rich hornfelses free of biotite, near the intrusive contact, followed by recrystallized garnet‐rich rocks with relict gneissic fabrics progressively enriched in biotite towards the distal aureole. The Al‐rich hornfelses are very tenacious, massive, fine‐grained rocks with conchoidal fracture, resinous lustre, intergrowth of feldspars, simplectites of cordierite and hercynite, and show an increase calcium content in plagioclase towards the intrusion. The hornfelses comprise two mineral assemblages: (I) plagioclase–garnet–orthopyroxene–quartz and (II) plagioclase–garnet–quartz–cordierite–sillimanite–hercynite–K‐feldspar. Calculated temperatures for host rocks range from ~1,010°C, for a hornfels collected at 1 m from the intrusive contact, to ~732°C, for a paragneiss located at 262 m from the intrusion. Using Theriak‐Domino software, phase‐equilibrium modelling for the hornfels assemblage (II) provides temperatures between 970 and 1,010°C, at pressures from 5.6 to 6.0 kbar, characterizing UHT contact metamorphism at mid‐crustal level (21–22 km depth). Neocrystallized zircons with soccer ball morphology aged at 520 ± 19 Ma, and P–T conditions of 845°C at 6.35 kbar for a recrystallized paragneiss record the contact metamorphism at least up to 250 m distance from the intrusion. The presented data constrain a P–T–t peak ~5.8 kbar – 990°C – 520 Ma for the contact metamorphism while the P–T–t peak at 7.5 kbar – 785°C – 560 Ma was related to the collisional metamorphism of regional paragneisses in the literature. Therefore, the pressure–time relation between those metamorphic peaks gives a pressure difference of 1.7 kbar (~6.3 km thickness of continental crust) over 40 Ma, corresponding to low decompression (42.5 bar/Ma) and exhumation (157 m/Ma) rates from the collisional peak to the post‐collisional stage, in the studied region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Confluências Culturais is the property of Fundacao Educacional da Regiao de Joinville - FURJ 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 article aims to Identify factors associated with knowledge and use of combined HIV prevention strategies among female sex workers (FSW). Cross-sectional epidemiological study, using the Respondent Driven Sampling (RDS) method. Descriptive analyzes were performed after adjustments required by the RDS method. To investigate factors associated with knowledge of PEP and PrEP and use of the female condom, Poisson regression was applied, using odds ratio as an association measure. FSW not affiliated with NGOs, who did not receive informational material on prevention and / or participated in lectures in the last six months and who do not identify themselves as FSW in healthcare service facilities have less knowledge about PEP and PrEP and use the female condom less frequently. In general, FSW do not have sufficient knowledge and access to combined HIV prevention methods to take advantage of their benefits. We believe that the adoption of different models of care for FSW in partnership with NGOs can be an effective strategy for expanding knowledge and use of HIV prevention methods in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique algal bed formation, composed largely of free-living geniculate coralline algae (articuliths), was recorded within the subtidal zone of Arraial do Cabo Bay, Brazil. The importance of these articuliths was shown by previous ecological surveys, which, using morpho-anatomical analyses, identified these algal specimens as belonging to Amphiroa beauvoisii, Jania adhaerens and J. capillacea. Cryptic diversity was recently found in Brazilian corallines and prompted the reassessment of the species diversity of the Arraial do Cabo Bay algal bed. Here we identified the species of geniculate coralline algae commonly associated with the subtidal beds of Arraial do Cabo Bay using a combination of molecular (psbA) and morpho-anatomical analyses, and compared them to closely related species described for Brazil and elsewhere. Two species belonging to the genera Amphiroa and Jania were identified as the major components of these algal beds. Our analyses suggest that these specimens belong to Amphiroa cf. exilis and to a new species of Jania, Jania cabista sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Our goal was to identify genetic risk factors for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) caused by Leishmania braziliensis. Methods Genotyping 2066 CL cases and 2046 controls using Illumina HumanCoreExomeBeadChips provided data for 4 498 586 imputed single-nucleotide variants (SNVs). A genome-wide association study (GWAS) using linear mixed models took account of genetic diversity/ethnicity/admixture. Post-GWAS positional, expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) and chromatin interaction mapping was performed in Functional Mapping and Annotation (FUMA). Transcriptional data were compared between lesions and normal skin, and cytokines measured using flow cytometry and Bioplex assay. Results Positional mapping identified 32 genomic loci associated with CL, none achieving genome-wide significance (P < 5 × 10−8). Lead SNVs at 23 loci occurred at protein coding or noncoding RNA genes, 15 with eQTLs for functionally relevant cells/tissues and/or showing differential expression in lesions. Of these, the 6 most plausible genetic risk loci were SERPINB10 (P imputed_1000G = 2.67 × 10−6), CRLF3 (P imputed_1000G = 5.12 × 10−6), STX7 (P imputed_1000G = 6.06 × 10−6), KRT80 (P imputed_1000G = 6.58 × 10−6), LAMP3 (P imputed_1000G = 6.54 × 10−6), and IFNG-AS1 (P imputed_1000G = 1.32 × 10−5). LAMP3 (P adjusted = 9.25 × 10−12; +6-fold), STX7 (P adjusted = 7.62 × 10−3; +1.3-fold), and CRLF3 (P adjusted = 9.19 × 10−9; +1.97-fold) were expressed more highly in CL biopsies compared to normal skin; KRT80 (P adjusted = 3.07 × 10−8; −3-fold) was lower. Multiple cis-eQTLs across SERPINB10 mapped to chromatin interaction regions of transcriptional/enhancer activity in neutrophils, monocytes, B cells, and hematopoietic stem cells. Those at IFNG-AS1 mapped to transcriptional/enhancer regions in T, natural killer, and B cells. The percentage of peripheral blood CD3+ T cells making antigen-specific interferon-γ differed significantly by IFNG-AS1 genotype. Conclusions This first GWAS for CL identified multiple genetic risk loci including a novel lead to understanding CL pathogenesis through regulation of interferon-γ by IFNG antisense RNA 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study analyzes the relationship between earnings quality and investment efficiency of electricity companies listed in Brazil, Bolsa, Balcão [B]3. The choice of the electric sector is due to the large number of companies, the volume of resources invested in the sector, and strong regulation as a reducing factor of informational asymmetry. The data analyzed covers the period from 2010 to 2017 through a static panel, and comprises a sample of 57 companies in the electricity sector. We used information contained in the financial statements extracted from the [B]3 database on its website for disclosure purposes. Higherquality financial reporting should increase investment efficiency. Moreover, reducing adverse selection and moral hazard increases the quality of financial reporting information and allows managers to identify better investment opportunities. With this is mind, the hypothesis of this research is that there is a significant and positive relationship between earnings quality and investment efficiency of electricity companies listed in [B]3. Results indicated a positive relationship between earnings quality and investment efficiency, especially mitigating overinvestment. These results corroborate studies conducted in developed economies. Notwithstanding, higher information quality does not mitigate underinvestment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to assess the prevalence and characterize the profile of elder abuse in Brazil in this quantitative descriptive and exploratory study using a document analysis of cases of elder abuse against people aged 60 and over reported to Brazil's Notifiable Disease Information System (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação—SINAN) from 2009 to 2013. Association between age groups (older adults and non-older adults) and (a) characteristics of the victims (gender, age, and race), (b) characteristics of the violence (type of violence, place of occurrence, and repeated violence) and, (c) characteristics of the perpetrator (gender, suspected alcohol consumption, and victim-perpetrator relationship) were assessed using the chi-square test and odds ratios (OR) with a 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance was set at p <.05. Elder abuse accounted for 5.7% of all cases of violence, with a higher prevalence among women (54.3%). Older men and older white people were more likely to suffer violence compared with their non-older peers (OR=1.75 and OR=1.47, respectively). Financial abuse (OR=5.95), violence resulting from legal intervention (OR=1.24), repeated violence (OR=1.22), and torture (OR=1.08) were at higher chances of occurring among older adults. In all, 30.3% of the cases of elder abuse were perpetrated by their children and 22% of the perpetrators were suspected to have consumed alcohol. Older adults were 30 times more likely to be abused by their children and eight times by caregivers and presented 2.37 more chances of evolving to death due to violence and 1.8 more chances to suffer violence in the household. The cases of elder abuse reported to SINAN highlight the greater fragility of this population group. In addition to reporting this public health problem, governmental and non-governmental actions are necessary to provide older adults with a healthy aging and ensure their rights, dignity, and autonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leishmania skin test (LST) evaluates the delayed type hypersensitivity to Leishmania antigens (LA) and has been used for diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). In CL patients LST is usually positive but a small percentage have negative LST. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and immunologic features and response to antimony therapy in LST-negative CL patients.Methods: We compare the clinical presentation, response to therapy, and immune response of CL patients with negative vs positive LST.Results: The clinical presentation was similar in both groups but LST-negative patients had a lower cure rate. In the lesions, LST-negative patients displayed less inflammation and necrosis, and higher frequency of CD8+ T cells. Mononuclear cells from LST-negative patients had a poor T helper 1 cell (Th1) response but levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-17, granzyme B, and metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were similar to the LST-positive group upon stimulation with LA. Leishmania internalization and killing by macrophages were similar in both groups. Cure of disease was associated with restoration of Th1 response.Conclusions: In LST-negative patients, impaired Th1 response is associated with therapeutic failure. Increased frequency of CD8+ T cells and high production of inflammatory cytokines, granzyme B, and MMP-9 contributes to immunopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucalyptus rust is caused by the biotrophic fungus, Austropuccinia psidii , which affects commercial plantations of Eucalyptus, a major raw material for the pulp and paper industry in Brazil. In this manuscript we aimed to uncover the molecular mechanisms involved in rust resistance and susceptibility in Eucalyptus grandis. Epifluorescence microscopy was used to follow the fungus development inside the leaves of two contrasting half-sibling genotypes (rust-resistance and rust-susceptible), and also determine the comparative time-course of changes in metabolites and proteins in plants inoculated with rust. Within 24 h of complete fungal invasion, the analysis of 709 metabolomic features showed the suppression of many metabolites 6 h after inoculation (hai) in the rust-resistant genotype, with responses being induced after 12 hai. In contrast, the rust-susceptible genotype displayed more induced metabolites from 0 to 18 hai time-points, but a strong suppression occurred at 24 hai. Multivariate analyses of genotypes and time points were used to select 16 differential metabolites mostly classified as phenylpropanoid-related compounds. Applying the Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), rust-resistant and rust-susceptible genotypes had, respectively, 871 and 852 proteins grouped into 5 and 6 modules, of which 5 and 4 of them were significantly correlated to the selected metabolites. Functional analyses revealed roles for photosynthesis and oxidative-dependent responses leading to temporal activity of metabolites and related enzymes after 12 hai in rust-resistance; while the initial over-accumulation of those molecules and suppression of supporting mechanisms at 12 hai caused a lack of progressive metabolite-enzyme responses after 12 hai in rust-susceptible genotype. This study provides some insights on how E. grandis plants are functionally modulated to integrate secondary metabolites and related enzymes from phenylpropanoid pathway and lead to temporal divergences of resistance and susceptibility responses to rust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]