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Global forest plantations are expanding, causing land-use changes and impacting the water cycle. This study assesses whether eucalyptus plantations reduce groundwater levels compared to grasslands in paired subtropical watersheds. The hydrological dynamics of surface and subsurface water were compared in three small watersheds in southern Brazil, mainly occupied by Eucalyptus saligna (Es-W, 79.9 ha), Eucalyptus benthamii (Eb-W, 82.1 ha), and degraded anthropized natural grassland (G-W, 109.4 ha). Rainfall, flow, and piezometric levels were monitored. Runoff, evapotranspiration, and water balance in the soil profile were estimated, and the subsurface environment was characterized using electrical resistivity tomography. During higher accumulated rainfall, water surplus increased for all watersheds. In the wet period (accumulated rainfall of 1098.0 mm), evapotranspiration was higher for eucalyptus (624.3 mm for Eb-W and 512.5 mm for Es-W) than for the grassland watershed (299.5 mm), resulting in the highest runoff in G-W (649.6 mm). During the dry period (accumulated rainfall of 478.5 mm), water deficit and withdrawal were mainly observed in forested watersheds, decreasing groundwater. Combining water balance and electrical resistivity tomography estimations results in a better understanding of the hydrological dynamics in paired watersheds with different land uses. This information is useful for developing best-practice management strategies for sustainable water resource use and forest production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the effect of an intensity‐controlled exercise program (ICEP) and a nonintensity‐controlled exercise program (non‐ICEP) on the variables responsible for blood pressure regulation in hypertensive older adults. 95 hypertensive older adults (65.40 ± 7.48 years/22 males and 73 females) performed hemodynamic, functional fitness, and biochemical evaluations before and after 12 weeks of the multicomponent exercises which included walking, muscle strength, hydrogymnastics, Pilates, dynamic balance, agility, flexibility, and others. A significant improvement was observed in general functional fitness index (GFFI: p ≤ 0.000, d = 0.35), nitrite (NO2−: p ≤ 0.000, d = 0.49), systolic blood pressure (SBP: p ≤ 0.000, d = 0.65), diastolic blood pressure (DBP: p ≤ 0.013, d = 0.40), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS: p ≤ 0.007, d = 0.78), activity of the endothelial superoxide dismutase enzyme (ecSOD: p ≤ 0.032, d = 0.41), double product (DP: p ≤ 0.015, d = 0.43), and waist‐hip ratio (WHR: p ≤ 0.000, d = 0.44) for ICEP. Only GFFI (p ≤ 0.047, d = 0.12), TBARS (p ≤ 0.000, d = 0.77), SOD (p ≤ 0.025, d = 0.25), DP (p ≤ 0.046, d = 0.26), and BMI (p ≤ 0.018, d = 0.02) presented better results in non‐ICEP. When the effect of the groups (controlled by age, BMI, and sex) was evaluated, an increase was observed in the NO2−, TBARS, and SOD and a reduction in the SBP and WHR variables in the ICEP group compared to the non‐ICEP group. Twelve weeks of engagement in a controlled‐intensity exercise program was enough to improve the level of functional fitness and variables regarding blood pressure regulation in hypertensive older adults. Conversely, physical exercise performed without intensity control was related to the limited effect on such variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: Wildlife in the Pantanal and Cerrado regions of Brazil face increasing threats, such as deforestation, urbanization, and road construction, which disrupt their natural habitats and increase the risk of diseases, including those that can spread to humans. The aim of this study was to characterize parasites affecting wild felids (large cats) in these areas, focusing on interactions among parasites, hosts, and the environment. The results provide a basis for the development of strategies to prevent the spread of disease and promote animal and human health. The use of advanced technology to monitor ecological changes and the importance of involving local communities in conservation efforts are emphasized. By integrating scientific research with public health measures and community engagement, this project aims to create sustainable solutions to protect biodiversity and public health. This is crucial for maintaining the ecosystem balance and ensuring the health of wildlife and nearby human populations. Environmental changes in the Brazilian Pantanal and Cerrado facilitate the spread of parasitic diseases in wildlife, with significant implications for public health owing to their zoonotic potential. This study aimed to examine the occurrence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in wild felids within these regions to assess their ecological and health impacts. We collected and analyzed helminth-positive samples from 27 wild felids using specific taxonomic keys. Diverse parasitic taxa were detected, including zoonotic helminths, such as Ancylostoma braziliense, Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma pluridentatum, Toxocara cati, Toxocara canis, Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp., Echinococcus spp., and Spirometra spp. Other nematodes, such as Physaloptera praeputialis and Physaloptera anomala, were identified, along with acanthocephalans from the genus Oncicola and a trematode, Neodiplostomum spp. (potentially the first record of this parasite in wild felids in the Americas). Human encroachment into natural habitats has profound effects on wild populations, influencing parasitic infection rates and patterns. This study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and research on parasitic infections as a means of safeguarding both wildlife and human populations and highlights the role of wild felids as bioindicators of environmental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the frequency of abnormal cervical cytological results with and without representation of the transformation zone (TZ) in a medium-sized city in Brazil according to the Bethesda categorization. We performed an analytical observational study evaluating cytological results over 15 years from conventional smears collected within the Public Brazilian Health System in Araçatuba, Brazil. Tests were stratified by age and cytological result according to Brazilian guidelines and the Bethesda System. There were 261,881 examinations, 159,251 with and 102,630 without TZ representation. The global frequency of abnormal results was higher in smears with TZ representation (crude odds ratio [OR] 4.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.71–4.38]). Considering only women between 25 and 64 years (the target of the national guidelines), there were higher results for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (OR 11.54; 95% CI 6.74–19.78), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (OR 2.82; 95% CI 2.17–3.67) atypical squamous cell in which high-grade intraepithelial lesion cannot be excluded (OR 6.90; 95% CI 4.91–9.66) and atypical squamous cell of undetermined significance (OR 3.53; 95% CI 3.11–4.01) among cases with TZ representation. Samples with TZ representation were associated with higher rates of abnormal results. Health professionals should be regularly trained to understand the weakness of cytological examinations when the TZ is not represented, especially in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the acceptance of artisanal ice cream prepared with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as the main lipid ingredient. Two formulations were developed using an EVOO from Brazil (BrEVOO) and another from Greece (GrEVOO), both with high content of phenolics. Acceptance test using a hedonic scale was applied. Principal component analysis (PCA) and multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis were carried out to highlight significant attributes affecting the ice cream acceptance. No statistical significant differences (p >.05) were observed between ice creams for aroma, flavor, consistency, appearance, and overall acceptance. Regarding PCA, the first two components explained 80% of the total variability and allowed us to observe that the global acceptance was mainly correlated with aroma and flavor. We conclude that EVOOs can be an effective ingredient to promote functional and/or health properties of novel foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes three new species of monogeneans parasitizing the gills of anostomid fishes from the Upper Paraná River basin, southeastern Brazil: Jainus beccus n. sp. and Jainus radixelongatus n. sp. on Leporinus friderici, Leporinus octofasciatus, Leporinus striatus, and Megaleporinus elongatus; and Jainus ornatus n. sp. on L. friderici. The new species differ from other congeners by the morphology of the accessory piece. There is a semicircular distal portion resembling a "bird's beak" in Jainus beccus n. sp. It composed of two subunits—one ventral and more sclerotized, sickle-shaped, and another dorsal with three projections—in Jainus radixelongatus n. sp. There are two elongated and sclerotized subunits, both of which have a sickle-shaped distal portion, in Jainus ornatus n. sp. Supplementary observations not reported in the original descriptions of the type-species Jainus piava Karling, Bellay, Takemoto & Pavanelli, 2011 are proposed, as follows: the presence of a thin and delicate ventral bar, which can vary greatly in shape; an accessory piece not articulated with the MCO's base. This paper provides the first phylogenetic study based on LSU rDNA and COI mtDNA gene sequences for Jainus, improving and clarifying the understanding of host–parasite relationships in neotropical characiforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This article analyzes experiences of antibiotic use and bacterial infections among Primary Health Care users of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) and the possible implications for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The aim is to map aspects that shape users' lay knowledge regarding antibiotics use and AMR. Methods: This is an exploratory study, which consists primarily of individual in‐depth interviews with 19 respondents. Recurrent interview topics were coded and analysed according to thematic content analysis. Results: Our findings show users' lived experiences constitute three dimensions related to users' previous antibiotic use: (1) lay knowledge about medicines; (2) previous bacterial infections and (3) communication during the consultation. Lay knowledge encompasses the users' understanding of how antibiotics work in comparison to other drugs and experimentations they make with medication. Users' narratives about bacterial infections are divided into situations of urinary tract infections and antibiotic treatments for other conditions. Communication during the consultation is mainly characterized by a lack of shared knowledge and trust in the doctor–patient relationship. Discussion: Users bring together knowledge learned from their own experiences to create the rationale, which shapes how they understand antibiotic use, bacterial infections and medical advice. These experiences are interwoven with information received from healthcare professionals (HPs) on these topics, creating a scenario that goes beyond professional information about antibiotic use. Users have knowledge about medication, antibiotics use and bacterial infection but do not have room to share it with HP, allowing lived experiences to take precedence over professional information. Conclusion: Users ascribe symbolic meanings to antibiotics creating a lay knowledge frame, even if this knowledge is not scientifically correct. The personal experiences of bacterial infections and their treatment are also an important source of knowledge about antibiotic use and AMR among users. Users demand from their HPs both trust and willingness to listen to their health narratives and experiences. By considering lay knowledge as part of the assessment of a user's health condition, rather than dismissing it as erroneous and therefore unworthy of attention, HPs may enhance the compliance of users. Patient or Public Contribution: Patients or community members did not participate in the design stage of the study. Primary Care patients were invited to participate as respondents of in‐depth interviews, which were carried out by the first author at a Primary Care Unit (PCU) in the suburb of Campo Limpo, Southern region of São Paulo, Brazil. Patients were interviewed after reading and signing a Free and Informed Consent Form, holding with them a copy of the Form. Among the final activities of the project, a feedback session at the same PCU is planned to report on the results of the study. All respondents will have the opportunity to contribute further information regarding their antibiotic use and exchange knowledge and experiences on antimicrobial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasing threat to global health. The risks and sanitary consequences of AMR are disproportionately experienced by those living in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). While addressing antibiotic use has largely been documented in hospital settings, the understanding of social drivers affecting antibiotic prescribing and dispensing practices in the context of human and animal health in primary care (PC) in LMICs remains extremely limited. We seek to explore how in-locus and multi-level social factors influence antibiotic prescriptions and dispensing practices in the context of human and animal health in primary care in Brazil. This is a baseline qualitative One Health study; semi-structured interviews and field observations were undertaken in primary care sites located in a socioeconomically vulnerable area in the city of São Paulo, the most populated city of Brazil. Twenty-five human and animal healthcare professionals (HP) were purposely sampled. Interview data were subject to thematic analysis. Three overlapping social drivers were identified across HPs' discourses: individual and behavioral challenges; relational and contextual factors influencing the overprescription of antibiotics (AB); and structural barriers and systemic contradictions in the health system. As a result of the interaction between multilevel in-locus and structural and contextual factors, HPs experience contextual and territorial challenges that directly influence their risk perception, diagnosis, use of laboratorial and image exams, time and decision to undergo treatment, choice of AB and strategies in coping with AB prescriptions. Additionally, in-locus factors influencing antibiotic prescriptions and dispensing practices are intertwined with individual accounts of risk management, systemic contradictions and ambivalences in the national health system. Our findings suggest interventions tackling AB use and AMR in Brazil should consider the social context, the complex health system structure and current integrated programs and services in PC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores stakeholders' perceptions of the challenges for developing a One Health agenda to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Brazil, including the development and implementation of the Brazilian National Action Plan (BR-NAP). The data originate from 27 interviews conducted with human, environmental, and animal health stakeholders, including academics, managers, and policymakers involved in developing the BR-NAP. Through thematic analysis, we identified three interconnected themes: governance, the health system, and technical and scientific challenges. The findings draw particular attention to failures in the agenda-setting process, revealed by interviewees strongly emphasising that AMR is not considered a policy priority in Brazil. The lack of political will and awareness of the clinical, social, and economic impacts of AMR are considered the main impediments to the agenda's progress. The joint work across disciplines and ministries must be reinforced through policymaker engagement and better environmental sector integration. The agenda must include sustainable governance structures less affected by political winds. Policies should be designed jointly with state and local governments to create strategies to engage communities and improve their translation into effective implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biological pest control has expanded in Brazil with the Trichogramma pretiosum as the main natural enemy. The microsatellite molecular markers Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) have been the most used, as they are multiallelic, robust and reproducible, in several species. In order to optimize future processes of identification and analysis of the parasitoid's genetic diversity, twenty markers, isolated and characterized for the parasitoid wasp Trichogramma dendrolimi, were tested in 15 generations of T. pretiosum. Those markers, ten have been transferred and can be used to evaluate the genetic variation of T. pretiosum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical similarities among viral diseases become even more relevant considering the current scenario, especially in Brazil, where there is a high incidence of these diseases and overlapping seasonality. We report the case of a patient with acute clinical manifestations composed of predominant respiratory symptoms and alveolar hemorrhage in which three etiologies (dengue, influenza and COVID-19) were investigated concomitantly. Only the diagnosis of dengue was confirmed. Then, the patient's immunological profile in response to stimulation of mononuclear cells with dengue virus antigen was analyzed in an attempt to identify specific characteristics that could be associated with the clinical manifestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Gaucha de Enfermagem is the property of Revista Gaucha 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.)

Salmonella is one of the major causes of gastroenteritis worldwide in both humans and animals and one of the main agents involved in foodborne disease outbreaks. In this study, 70 raw kibbe samples from different commercial establishments were analyzed for Salmonella spp. The isolates were seroyped and tested for susceptibility to antimicrobial agents. Pulsed-field Gel Electrophoresis was carried out following the standard protocol of the PulseNet network. Fifteen (21.4%) samples were contaminated with Salmonella and S. Give was the prevalent serotype (46.7%). Similarity of 96.3% was observed among the S. Give isolates (n = 7), which indicates the possible spread of the same clone in the analyzed commercial establishments. S. Rissen and S. Typhimurium showed antimicrobial resistance. The detection of a significant percentage of contamination in raw kibbe and of the resistant strains indicates the risk that the consumption of this dish may represent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Permanent deformation is associated with wheel track rutting (WTR) and is one of the main causes of defects in the pavements of Brazilian highways. Seeking to mitigate this situation, this paper presents a study about the permanent deformation of three typical subgrade soils of the Santa Maria region, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), located in the southern region of Brazil. In addition to the physical, chemical, and mechanical characterization of the materials, this research presents results from repeated load triaxial tests to obtain the resilient modulus (RM) and the permanent deformation (PD) parameters. The Compound model of the resilient modulus, posteriorly cited on the Petrobras Asphalt Thematic Network Project, showed the best results. The permanent deformation tests were conducted using a frequency of 2 Hz and 150,000 load application cycles and posteriorly adjusted to the Guimarães Model, of which average statistical correlation was 0.91. However, the predominance of fine materials combined with low compaction energy resulted in high deformation rates and the occurrence of shakedown in domains: A (plastic shakedown), B (plastic creep) and C (incremental collapse). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To reveal the meanings of illness due to laryngeal cancer of patients suffering from total laryngectomy. Methods: Case study supported by Clifford Geertz's Interpretation of Cultures, carried out from the High Complexity outpatient clinic in Oncology located in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil, with a group of 11 men. Later visits were made to the participants' homes. Data collection consisted of semi-structured interviews, with subsequent inductive content analysis. Results: They were divided into two macro categories: "Experiences with the disease" and "Changes in social life, experiences with body image and enunciation". The first was related to signs, symptoms and seeking treatment for the disease, religious faith, the family as a support and the second to changes in social life, enunciation and body image. Conclusion: Forms of evaluation for hoarseness, the search for home remedies, support in religion and family and a feeling of incompleteness were revealed. In addition, conduct for vocal and social rehabilitation involves stimulating, adapting and combating anxiety and insecurity regarding the esophageal voice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aquatic environment has received increasing attention regarding the evolution of bacterial resistance, either as a source of resistance genes or as a matrix for the dissemination of these genes. We evaluated the physicochemical, microbiological and antimicrobial resistance characteristics of 160 samples from alternative water well solutions. According to Ordinance 2914/2011 – MS, 44 (27.5%) samples were considered unsafe if at least one physicochemical parameter exceeded permissible limits. Escherichia coli were found in 30.6% of the unregistered housing estates (UHE) and 1.9% of the local sanitary surveillance system (RW). The total of 158 bacterial strains were isolated from 13 (25%) RW and 68 (63%) UHE, 132 of which (83.5%) were obtained from UHE samples. In the investigation of resistance genes, tetA, qnrS and qnrB genes were detected in three, one and eight isolates, respectively. Our results emphasize the importance of constant surveillance and control of the quality of water supplies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide; it is the fourth leading cause of death in the world and the third in Brazil. Mutations in the APC, DCC, KRAS and TP53 genes have been associated with the progression of sporadic CRC, occurring at defined pathological stages of the tumor progression and consequently modulating several genes in the corresponding signaling pathways. Therefore, the identification of gene signatures that occur at each stage during the CRC progression is critical and can present an impact on the diagnosis and prognosis of the patient. In this study, our main goal was to determine these signatures, by evaluating the gene expression of paired colorectal adenoma and adenocarcinoma samples to identify novel genetic markers in association to the adenoma-adenocarcinoma stage transition.Methods: Ten paired adenoma and adenocarcinoma colorectal samples were subjected to microarray gene expression analysis. In addition, mutations in APC, KRAS and TP53 genes were investigated by DNA sequencing in paired samples of adenoma, adenocarcinoma, normal tissue, and peripheral blood from ten patients.Results: Gene expression analysis revealed a signature of 689 differentially expressed genes (DEG) (fold-change> 2, p< 0.05), between the adenoma and adenocarcinoma paired samples analyzed. Gene pathway analysis using the 689 DEG identified important cancer pathways such as remodeling of the extracellular matrix and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Among these DEG, the ETV4 stood out as one of the most expressed in the adenocarcinoma samples, further confirmed in the adenocarcinoma set of samples from the TCGA database. Subsequent in vitro siRNA assays against ETV4 resulted in the decrease of cell proliferation, colony formation and cell migration in the HT29 and SW480 colorectal cell lines. DNA sequencing analysis revealed KRAS and TP53 gene pathogenic mutations, exclusively in the adenocarcinomas samples.Conclusion: Our study identified a set of genes with high potential to be used as biomarkers in CRC, with a special emphasis on the ETV4 gene, which demonstrated involvement in proliferation and migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional is the property of Universidade Estadual de Campinas - Portal de Periodicos Eletronicos Cientificos 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 fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is considered the main pest of corn (Zea mays L.) in Brazil and feeds on several other plant species, including cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz). The food substrate influences the control efficiency of baculovirus and there aren't studies on the effects of the application of baculovirus Spodoptera frugiperda multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfMNPV) on cassava leaves in the mortality of S. frugiperda larvae. The main objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficiency of SfMNPV isolate 6 on S. frugiperda larvae fed on corn and cassava leaves. The food substrates were treated with three baculovirus concentrations (2 x 105, 2 x 106 and 2 x 107 OB mL-1) of a semipurified suspension, and of a commercial formulation (CartuchoVit®), both containing SfMNPV isolate 6, and then were offer to S. frugiperda second instar larvae. The semipurified virus was more virulent than the commercial formulation, regardless of the food substrate provided to insects, when concentrations of 2 x 105 and 2 x 106 OB mL-1 were used. However, there was no difference between treatments when baculovirus suspension of 2 x 107 OB mL-1 was use and the mortality rates were higher than 91%. The mortality was higher when the larvae fed on cassava leaves treated with SfMNPV. Therefore, the food substrate increased the efficiency of SfMNPV, which promises the use of this virus in the management of S. frugiperda in cassava crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of JBES: Brazilian Journal of Health Economics / Jornal Brasileiro de Economia da Saúde is the property of JBES: Brazilian Journal of Health Economics 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 Brazilian Journal of Management / Revista de Administração da UFSM is the property of Brazilian Journal of Management / Revista de Administracao da UFSM 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: APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B cytidine deaminases have been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple cancers, including breast cancer (BC). A germline deletion linking APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B loci (A3A/B) has been associated with higher APOBEC-mediated mutational burden, but its association with BC risk have been controversial. Therefore, this study investigated the association between A3A/B and BC susceptibility and clinical presentation in a Brazilian cohort. Methods: A3A/B deletion was evaluated through allele-specific PCR in 341 BC patients and 397 women without familial or personal history of neoplasia from Brazil and associations with susceptibility to BC subtypes were tested through age-adjusted logistic models while correlations with clinicopathological parameters were tested using Kendall's tests. Results: No association was found between A3A/B and BC susceptibility; however, in Luminal-A BCs, it was positively correlated with tumor size (Tau-c = 0.125) and Ki67 (Tau-c = 0.116) and negatively correlated with lymph node metastasis (LNM) (Tau-c = − 0.162). The negative association between A3A/B with LNM in Luminal-A BCs remained significant even after adjusting for tumor size and Ki67 in logistic models (OR = 0.22; p = 0.008). Conclusion: These results show that although A3A/B may not modify BC susceptibility in Brazilian population, it may affect clinicopathological features in BC subtypes, promoting tumor cell proliferation while being negatively associated with LNM in Luminal-A BCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the demonstrated role of human Papillomavirus (HPV) in the etiology of cervical cancer and the strong evidence suggesting the importance of HPV in the development of oropharyngeal cancer, several aspects of the interrelationship between HPV infection in both body sites remain unknown, specifically in female human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive (HIV+) patients. We aimed to assess the prevalence, distribution, and concordance of cervical and oral HPV in HIV+ women and matched HIV-negative (HIV-) controls in Brazil. Material and methods: Cervical and endocervical samples for cytological screening and HPV detection and oral samples were collected from 115 HIV+ women using highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and 139 HIV-matched controls (HIV-) in Maringá City, Brazil. Risk factors were assessed using a standardized questionnaire, and the data regarding HIV infection were obtained from the patients' medical records. HPV detection and typing were performed using the Kit Multiplex XGEN Multi HPV Chip HS12. Results: HIV infection was well controlled in this cohort, but women who exhibited detectable HIV loads were significantly associated with HPV-positive status overall (P = 0.03) and in cervical mucosa (P = 0.01). HIV+ women had significantly more abnormal cytological findings (P = 0.04) than HIV- women. Of the 115 HIV+ women, 48.7% were positive for cervical and/or oral HPV DNA; of the 139 HIV- women, 41% were positive for cervical and/or oral HPV (P = 0.25). Both HIV+ and HIV- women had a statistically higher prevalence of cervical HPV infection than oral infection. The concurrent HPV infection in two anatomical sites was similar in HIV+ and HIV- women; however, HPV type concordance was not observed. HPV type distribution was different between the anatomical sites in both groups, and HIV+ women presented less common types, mainly in oral mucosa. Conclusion: Our data support the importance of testing HPV infection in HIV+ women, even when the HIV infection is well controlled. Prospective studies are required to better understand the natural history of HPV infection in both anatomical sites, specifically in HIV+ women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.)

This study investigated the antioxidant activity of Cuphea glutinosa (CG) and its effect on Na+, K+-ATPase from cardiac muscle. The ethanolic extract showed higher antioxidant capacity compared to aqueous and ethyl acetate fraction. Ethyl acetate fraction showed β-sitosterol-3-O-β-glucoside, kaempferol, quercetin, isoquercetin, gallic acid methyl ester, and gallic acid. The ethanolic extract also reduced the Na+,K+-ATPase activity. CG presented a promising antioxidant activity and inhibitory effect on the Na+, K+-ATPase activity, supporting biochemical evidences the popular use of this plant in the treatment of heart failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of SMAD Revista Electronica Salud Mental, Alcohol y Drogas is the property of Universidade de Sao Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirao Preto 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 SMAD Revista Electronica Salud Mental, Alcohol y Drogas is the property of Universidade de Sao Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirao Preto 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.)

Recruitment in savanna environments represents a high-risk step in a plant's life cycle. Dimorphandra mollis Benth (Fabaceae) is a savanna tree species which produces dry fruits holding coat-imposed dormant seeds dispersed late in the dry season. We investigated fire effects on fruit dehiscence, seed dormancy breaking and seed viability, and also monitored seedling recruitment and survival for 44 months in a savanna area subjected to biennial controlled fires in central Brazil. Fruits were laid aboveground, and seeds were buried before and after an experimental fire set in August 1999. Fruits started to open after the experimental fire up to the following rainy season. Around one fourth of the seeds removed from these fruits were viable but required scarification to imbibe, indicating that fruits do not totally insulate seeds, and fire does not break seed dormancy. No seedling emerged from buried seeds during the first rainy season after the fire, but fourteen seedlings emerged during the second rainy season. Half of the seedlings died and the other half resprouted after a second experimental fire set during the third dry season. In the third rainy season, thirteen new seedlings emerged, but two died in the fourth dry season. We found that fire was a more determinant constraint to seedling survival than the dry season itself. After 44 months we recovered 27 viable seeds from those initially buried, suggesting that seeds of D. mollis have the potential to establish a persistent seed bank. As expected for savanna trees, we found that D. mollis seeds and seedlings may persist in environments periodically disturbed by fires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2015, the Fundão tailing dam collapsed over the district of Bento Rodrigues (Mariana, Minas Gerais, Brazil) causing deaths, hundreds of homeless families and incalculable environmental degradation. Environmentally, economically and socially sustainable strategies are needed for the recovery of the affected areas. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the development, biomass production and toxic mineral elements absorption of three species of aromatic grasses (Chrysopogon zizanioides, Cymbopogon citratus and Cymbopogon winterianus). These three species were planted on polypropylene pots filled with the iron ore tailings collected from the topsoil of the Bento Rodrigues district. The pots were fertilized with increasing doses of organic compost associated with mycorrhizae as a phytomanagement strategy. A 4 × 2 factorial scheme was used. The seedlings were fertilized with four doses of organic compost, with or without mycorrhizae. At the highest dose of the organic compost (2 kg.plant−1), the total dry matter (dry matter of the aerial part + dry matter of the roots) for C. zizanioides was 4.5 times higher than the control (tailing only). For C. winterianus and C. Citratus was 3.8 and 2.8 times higher than the control, respectively. Inoculation with mycorrhizae improved biomass production, especially in C. zizanioides. The Fe and Mn levels found in the aerial part of the plants fertilized with organic compost were lower than those just growing on the iron ore tailings for the three species, which suggest that the organic matter apparently helped the plants in the exclusion of the hazardous substances and therefore increased the tolerance to these adverse environmental conditions. C. zizanioides , associated with organic matter and mycorrhizae, would be the recommended species. The proposed phytomanagement strategy can have a significant contribution to the gradual recovery of the affected area and also serve as a source of income for the local population. Image 1 • Organic compost and mycorrhizae promoted the vegetative growth. • Fe, Mn and Na levels are far above normal levels in soils. • Species absorbed of Fe and Mn metals were above the toxicity limits of plants. • Vetiver is the recommended species to phytomanagement in area. This study presents a social, environmental and economic strategy for the recovery of areas affected by the remediation of iron ore tailings from Fundão dam, Mariana, Brazil, using a phytomanagement strategy with aromatic grasses, fertilized with organic compost and associated with mycorrhizae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Anuario do Instituto de Geociencias is the property of Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Geociencias 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 Nova Economia is the property of Nova Economia 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.)

We report an imported case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant P.1 detected in an asymptomatic traveler who arrived in Italy on an indirect flight from Brazil. This case shows the risk for introduction of SARS-CoV-2 variants from indirect flights and the need for continued SARS-CoV-2 surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes Cacatuocotyle papilionis n. sp. (Monogenea, Dactylogyridae) from the skin of the characid fishes Astyanax lacustris (Lütken, 1875) (=Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000) and Astyanax fasciatus (Cuvier, 1819) (Characiformes, Characidae) from the Southeast of Brazil, supported by morphological and molecular data. The new species differs from all congeners, mainly due to the morphology of the ventral bar (resembling a butterfly), accessory piece, and the number of rings of the male copulatory organ (MCO), comprising a coiled tube with 4.5-5.5 counterclockwise rings. The first molecular data for this monogenean genus is provided in this study, using the partial sequences of the ribosomal gene (28S), as well as providing an identification key to the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphatic zones with high exploration potential were identified in the mid-western area near Bonito municipality, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. This resource consists of a significant matter in reactive natural phosphate production representing an important element to increase agriculture in the country. The present study proposes an unusual geophysical approach as a method to identify and delineate rocks related to P 2 O 5 enrichment in the Ressaca target located in Bonito municipality, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. DC resistivity and gravimetric methods integrated with detailed surface geologic mapping were applied to detect lithologic heterogeneities near-surface and in-depth. The materials and their respective physical properties are related to weathered alteration zones (supergene) and phosphatic dolomitic breccias associated with the highest phosphatic concentration zones according to previous geologic prospective surveys. The resistivity and gravimetry results along with E -W oriented profiles detected significant anomalies concentrated in a zone in the mid-portion of the acquisition area. Resistivity, Bouguer, and Residual data integration allowed us to define circular features related to the enriched breccias and supergene ore. Results also define a near-surface concentration zone representing a useful tool to assess and help the subsurface analysis leading to an increase in the prospective survey planning (drilling) and the company's budget. • A valuable tool to enhance the prospection of supergene phosphate. • Improvement of ore characterization in the weathered superficial zone. • More effectiveness to further drill hole and geochemical planning. • Cost-effectiveness approach in P 2 O 5 enriched rocks assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Epidemiological transition in low- and middle-income countries has drawn the attention of public health policymakers to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their environmental and individual-level risk factors. We aimed to evaluate the association of socioeconomic indicators of Brazilian state capitals with NCD risk factors. Methods We used cross-sectional data from the 2011 Telephone-based Surveillance of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases (VIGITEL) survey. Correlations between various socioeconomic indicators of individual cities (Gross domestic product per capita, illiteracy and Gini index) and the prevalence of NCD risk factors were examined using Kendall's Tau correlation coefficient. Multilevel models were then employed to assess whether the association between these socioeconomic indicators and NCD risk factors was independent of socioeconomic status at the individual Results Stronger socioeconomic indicators were associated with a lower prevalence of irregular consumption of fruits, vegetables and leisure time physical inactivity, but with a higher prevalence of smoking and soft drink consumption. Adjustment for individual-level characteristics did not substantially alter the magnitude of these associations. Conclusion The socioeconomic condition of cities relates in complex ways with the prevalence of various risk factors for NCDs. For smoking and soft drink consumption, the associations observed do not reflect what is frequently reported at the individual level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Movement of livestock production within a country or region has implications for genetics, adaptation, well-being, nutrition, and production logistics, particularly in continental-sized countries, such as Brazil. Cattle production in Brazil from 1977 to 2011 was spatialized, and the annual midpoint of production was calculated. Changes in the relative production and acceleration of production were calculated and spatialized using ARCGIS®. Cluster and canonical discriminant analyses were performed to further highlight differences between regions in terms of cattle production. The mean production point has moved from the Center of Minas Gerais State (in the southeast region) to the North of Goiás State (in the Midwest region). This reflects changes in environmental factors, such as pasture type, temperature and humidity. Acceleration in production in the northern region of Brazil has remained strong over the years. More recently, “traditional” cattle-rearing regions, such as the south and southeast, showed a reduction in growth rates as well as a reduction in herd size or internal migration over the period studied. These maps showed that this movement tends to be gradual, with few regions showing high acceleration or deceleration rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epidemiologic studies have indicated that human herpesvirus 8 is implicated in the development of Kaposi sarcoma in different geographic areas worldwide.Goal: To provide information on the prevalence of human herpesvirus 8 in Brazil and its association with Kaposi sarcoma.Study Design: An immunofluorescence assay was performed to test 1,044 serum samples from 747 blood donors, 73 patients presenting to casualty departments, and 224 patients attending sexually transmitted disease/AIDS clinics. The sexually transmitted disease group was composed of 88 patients with HIV (40 Kaposi sarcoma positive, 48 Kaposi sarcoma negative) and 136 patients without HIV.Results: Antibodies to human herpesvirus 8-latent nuclear antigens were found in 34 blood donors (4.6%), and in seven casualty patients (9.6%). The highest frequency of human herpesvirus 8 antibodies was found in the sexually transmitted disease group: 32 HIV-positive patients with Kaposi sarcoma (80%) and seven patients without Kaposi sarcoma (14.6%).Conclusion: The presence of human herpesvirus 8 in patients with HIV was strongly associated with Kaposi sarcoma (odds ratio, 23.4; 95% CI, 7.7-71.4), male gender, homosexual or bisexual orientation, and hepatitis B virus infection, but not with the other sexually transmitted diseases that were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses which benefits the use of APS may bring to the S&OP, and the critical factors for the successful implementation. A case study was conducted in a major dairy company in the Brazilian food industry. Positioned in an environment of high market competition and narrow profit margins, the company strives for operational excellence, aimed at inventory reduction and increased service level. This supply chain includes several plants and has recently been through the deployment of an APS to support its S&OP process. The research has identified the main benefits of the APS: greater confidence and accuracy in planning, and better balancing of inventory throughout the supply chain. The deployment project went through specific difficulties that delayed its schedule. The study reinforces the importance of fully support from senior managers and the commitment of the planning staff to meet the challenges of customization and integration of the new system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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El sector automotor es uno de los sectores donde más ha crecido el comercio entre los miembros del mercosur. Aquí se examina la eventual desviación de comercio en ese sector durante el período 1991-2010, suponiendo la reducción de costos de los productos dada la expansión del mercado. El análisis se basa en los conceptos de reducción de costos y supresión de comercio acuñados por Corden (1972), con que se captan los efectos de las economías de escala. Para verificar si el bloque evoluciona de acuerdo con las ventajas comparativas, se utilizan los índices de orientación regional y de ventajas comparativas reveladas en forma conjunta. Los resultados sugieren un aumento de la eficiencia en el caso de los productos del sector automotor, cuyas exportaciones desde el Brasil al mercosur fueron más dinámicas, pues el mercado ampliado y relativamente protegido permitió aprovechar las economías de escala características de la industria automotriz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Alcoholic subjects manifest important deficits in frontal executive function, yet maintain cognitive mental status within normal range. Methods This study searched for volumetric measurements of segmented brain structures obtained from magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) that would predict executive functions and cognitive mental status in alcoholic subjects. The frontal assessment battery ( FAB) and the Mini-Mental State Examination ( MMSE) were applied to alcoholic subjects who underwent MRI. Cortical and subcortical segmentation and corrections were performed using FreeSurfer. Multiple linear regressions analyses having volumetric measures of segmented brain structures as predictors for FAB or MMSE scores as dependent measures were conducted. Sixty alcoholic subjects, 52 males, mean age of 47.2 ± SD 10.4 years, with heavy use of alcohol (mean 284.4 ± SD 275.9 g of alcohol/d) over a long time (mean 32.4 ± SD 11.1 years), showed FAB 11.1 ± SD 3.2 and MMSE of 25.2 ± SD 4.1. Results Multiple regression analyses having left and right side of each segment as predictors showed that gray matter volumes of rostral middle frontal cortex and cerebellar cortex ( p < 0.001), in which only the left side of these structures showed significant partial effects in the full model ( p < 0.05), showed to predict FAB performance. They were even more predictive when considered together ( p < 0.001), in which both left rostral middle frontal cortex ( p < 0.05) and left cerebellar cortex ( p < 0.01) predictors had significant partial effects in the full model. None of brain structures was predictive of MMSE performance. Conclusions We have concluded that volumetric measurements of left rostral middle frontal and cerebellar cortices seem to be able to predict the frontal executive performance but not the cognitive mental status in alcoholic subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About forty-two species of Myxobolus have been previously described to parasitize characiform fishes in South America. Here, we described a new myxozoan species, Myxobolus parodontidis n. sp., in the gills of Apareiodon piracicabae (Characiformes, Parodontidae) from the streams of the Middle Paranapanema River basin, Brazil. The proposed new species is supported by a combination of morphological, ultrastructural, and molecular characterization (small subunit ribosomal DNA). Thirteen specimens of A. piracicabae were analyzed and 30.8% was infected by Myxobolus parodontidis n. sp. The myxospores was classified as intralamellar asymmetric type. A few aberrant myxospores with three polar capsules were observed: the spore length and width were the same of normal myxospores, but the polar capsules had smaller sizes. Ultrastructural analysis showed that the plasmodial membrane of Myxobolus parodontidis n. sp. was in direct contact with the host tissue and a connective capsule surrounding the plasmodium was not observed. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the main influence in the clustering of species of myxobolids seems to be related to the phylogenetic relationships established among fish hosts, mainly at the level of family and order. This is the first record of a myxozoan species parasitizing parodontid fish, contributing to the knowledge of the biodiversity of myxozoans from Brazil. [Display omitted] • A new species of Myxobolus is described. • The first record of a myxozoan species parasitizing Parodontidae fish. • Morphological, ultrastructural and molecular data of the new species are provided. • Aberrant myxospores with three polar capsules were observed. • Phylogenetic relationships among fish hosts influenced the phylogeny of myxobolids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Eletrônica em Gestão, Educação e Tecnologia Ambiental is the property of Revista Eletronica em Gestao, Educacao e Tecnologia Ambiental 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.)

Objective: to interpret the meanings of the experience of the condition and of the treatment among people with arterial hypertension. Method: the authors adopted the frames of reference of interpretive and medical anthropology and of the ethnographic method. 22 people with arterial hypertension, and 10 Family Health Strategy health workers, all from Minas Gérais, participated. The authors used interviews, participant observation, focus groups, field diaries and analysis of medical records. Ethical precepts were respected. Results: two nuclei of meaning emerged: "The condition as an expression of way of living", and "The perspective of the cure of the condition". Nervous problems represent the nosological and symptomatic categories, caused by the urban way of living. The participants are supported by the belief of the curing of the problem. The family, spirituality and religion constitute social support networks. The therapeutic routes interpenetrate for the cure of the problem. The 'folk' health subsystem constitutes an important route because it provides better well-being and remission of the symptoms. Conclusion: the gaps evidenced between the points of view of the health professionals and the interviewees allow one to rethink the praxis so as to provide comprehensive, contextualized and humanized care, which encourages the people's potential for living, for empowerment, and for self-care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the helminth parasites of Geophagus proximus from the São José dos Dourados River, a tributary of Paraná River, Ilha Solteira Reservoir, São Paulo State, Brazil. From May 2006 to May 2007, 116 G. proximus specimens were examined and seven different taxa of helminth were collected and identified: proteocephalidean plerocercoids (Cestoda); metacercariae of Austrodiplostomumcompactum, Clinostomum heluans and Clinostomum sp. (Trematoda); and Raphidascaris (Sprentascaris) hypostomi, and larvae of Raphidascaris sp. and Contracaecum sp. (Nematoda). All parasites presented the typical aggregated pattern of distribution, as well as the presence of a high number of larval stages, an absence of influence of the host sex and seasonality upon community parameters, as well as a correlation between species richness and host body weight. Moreover, with the exception of A. compactum metacercariae, all helminths found in this study are reported for the first time in G. proximus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Revista Ibero-Americana de Estratégia (RIAE) is the property of Revista Ibero-Americana de Estrategia/UNINOVE 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.)