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The Direct Method, a pedagogical approach for teaching additional languages through immersion, emphasizes oral interaction and everyday language usage to facilitate language acquisition. This method discourages reliance on translation and minimizes emphasis on grammatical rules. However, a fundamental question arises about the effectiveness of TESOL programmes in non-English dominant countries in equipping prospective teachers to adopt a monolingual approach. This paper explores the results of a case study aimed at understanding the experiences of two TESOL degree candidates from a university in Northern Brazil. They participated in an outreach project employing the Direct Method to teach English to Year 1 students on the outskirts of Santarém-PA. Data, gathered through proficiency assessments, interviews, and video recordings, were analysed using Content Analysis and video analysis principles in qualitative research. The results revealed challenges faced by the participants due to limited pedagogical knowledge but also unveiled adaptive strategies, collaborative work practices, introspection, and an acknowledgment of the importance of integrating elements from students' physical and social contexts into lessons. Despite challenges, the study underscores the beneficial potential and viability of the Direct Method in non-English dominant contexts, advocating for its critical consideration and adaptation within TESOL programmes.

Online learning is a reality in much of the world. Among the tools available for online learning, there are Online Discussion Forums (ODF), due to their potential to promote collaborative learning. However, there is a lack in the literature about the evaluation of the forums, a gap marked by the absence of quantitative tools that make it possible to evaluate the forums from the student's perspective. In this sense, the objective of this paper was to develop and validate a Quality Perception of Online Discussion Forums (QPODF) scale. To this end, quantitative research was carried out with students of postgraduate courses "lato sensu" the online distance education. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis was used to validate the QPODF scale. The results demonstrate that the quality of the construct perceived online discussion forums has two dimensions "Forum Structure" and "Forum Mediation." The two identified factors were shown to be consistent and accurate to measure the quality of online forums. Moreover, the theoretical approach used to compose the scale is convergent with the measurement model proposed in the paper.

Background: Preschool is a crucial period for developing motor skills. Objective: This study evaluated factors associated with motor competence in preschoolers from a Brazilian urban area. Methods: A total of 211 preschoolers (51.2% girls and 48.8% boys) were evaluated. Body mass index was calculated; the Brazilian Economic Research Criterion, the Mini-Mental Scale (MMC) and the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale®, Revised (ECERS-R™) were applied; the Habitual Physical Activity time was recorded; the Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD-2) was performed. Univariate analysis was performed using simple linear regression for the independent variables, considering the motor test subscales as dependent variables. Variables with p < 0.20 in the univariate analysis were considered for the multiple linear regression model and were entered into the stepwise method. Results: The independent variables remaining in the Standard Score Locomotor model were BMI, presence of park at school, and MMC (R[superscript 2] = 0.16). The independent variables remaining in the Standard Object Control score were MMC and gender (R[superscript 2] = 0.03). The variables associated with the highest scores of Gross Motor Quotient were MMC, body mass index, and presence of a park at school, respectively (R[superscript 2] = 0.11). Conclusions: Male eutrophic preschoolers who are physically active and attend schools with parks or courtyards in a Brazilian urban area have the highest scores for global cognitive function and motor competence.

Teachers' professional knowledge has been an active area in the field of mathematics education research in the last decades, but we still know very little regarding how teachers learn. This article aims to identify learning opportunities experienced by two teachers regarding mathematical and didactical knowledge for the teaching of function, in a context of practice-based learning. To this end, we analyze data from a practice-based teacher education program based on a cycle that incorporates three segments of teachers' practice: planning, enacting and reflecting on a high school mathematics lesson, conducted from the perspective of inquiry-based teaching. We analyze two strands of the professional knowledge mobilized by the teachers, namely (i) the mathematics knowledge for teaching function, (ii) the knowledge for teaching practice, regarding function. The results indicate learning opportunities that emerged from the work done, regarding the use of the classroom as a teaching professional learning environment: the search for ways to encourage students to participate in the discussions; the recognition of the potential of the chosen lesson plan for the covariational approach, the importance of organizing mathematical discussion practices for students' learning, organizing the time devoted to whole-class discussions and preparing for leading them and the potential of a class developed from the perspective of inquiry-based teaching.

Background: The aim of the present study was to analyze the association between course type and health among high school students. Methods: A cross-sectional study with 675 Brazilian high school students. The independent variable was course type (general or vocational) and dependent variables were health characteristics. All information was obtained by a self-report questionnaire and the following health characteristics were analyzed: mental health, physical activity, sedentary behavior, food consumption, daytime sleepiness, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, aggression, and musculoskeletal symptoms. The prevalence ratio (PR) was estimated by Poisson regression. Results: Vocational students presented a higher prevalence in 7 of the 20 mental health symptoms analyzed (PR = 1.21-1.64), daytime sleepiness (PR = 1.39-1.71), and musculoskeletal symptoms in neck, shoulders, low back, and knees (PR = 1.31-1.41), and a lower likelihood of being physically active (PR = 0.59-0.70). Conversely, vocational students showed lower sedentary behavior on TV and videogames during the week (PR = 0.35-0.46), consumption of snacks, cookies, and crackers (PR = 0.56-0.72), and experiences of aggression (PR = 0.13-0.17), all P < 0.05. Conclusions: High school can affect students' health distinctly, indicating that intervention programs and health monitoring should be specific to course type.

Knowledge of how the different types of sedentary behaviors (SB) are associated with functional limitations can guide professionals who work with older adults on better recommendations about the amount of daily time that should be encouraged in each type of SB. The objective was to estimate the associations between two SB typologies (SB television [TV] and SB computer/internet) and the presence of handgrip strength, lower limb strength, gait speed, and balance limitations in Brazilian community-dwelling older adults. This is a cross-sectional study with 1,298 community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years). SB was assessed by self-reporting daily time spent watching TV or using computer/internet (categorized into <2, 3–4, and ≥5 hr/day). Outcomes were handgrip strength, lower limb strength, gait speed, and balance limitations considering referenced cutoff points. Older adults in SB TV ≥5 hr/day had 1.75 (95% confidence interval [CI] [1.07, 2.86]) and 1.88 (95% CI [1.02, 3.46]) times more chances of handgrip strength and gait speed limitations, respectively. On the other hand, those who spent 3–4 and ≥5 hr/day in SB computer/internet had 0.45 (95% CI [0.20, 0.99]) and 0.37 (95% CI [0.15, 0.93]) had less chances of lower limb strength and balance limitations, respectively. In conclusion, functional limitations would be associated differently depending on the type of SB in the older adults sampled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusion This article examines how support for conspiracy theories is affected by political endorsement. By relying on the literature on partisan cues and the role of political identity (partisan or ideological) in shaping people's attitudes and behaviors, we argue that endorsement of conspiracy theories by political elites convergent (divergent) with one's political identity should increase (decrease) belief in said conspiracy theories.We rely on data collected from over 10,000 respondents in Brazil to evaluate this hypothesis by embedding a wording experiment in questions tapping support for conspiracy theories.We find that partisans of the Workers' Party, a well‐established party with a strong base of supporters, are affected by political endorsements by showing greater (lower) support for conspiracy theories when endorsed by political elites convergent (divergent) with their political identity.Our findings suggest that political endorsements of conspiracy theories exert similar effects as endorsements of other political issues or public policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obtaining a perfect color match with resin composite presents a significant challenge. The chameleon effect has enabled resin composite to mimic the color of the adjacent tooth structure in vitro. This double-blind, split-mouth and equivalent randomized clinical trial evaluated the color matching of one-shade resin composite with chameleon effect versus multi-shade resin composite in non-carious cervical lesion restorations (NCCLs). Methods: One hundred twenty restorations were performed on NCCLs with two restorative materials (n = 60). After prophylaxis, the teeth were isolated with rubber dam and one universal adhesive was applied in the selective enamel etching strategy. For both groups, the restorations were inserted incrementally. The values of ΔEab and ΔE00 in the cervical and middle third were evaluated using a digital spectrophotometer before vs. after the restorations. The restorations were evaluated at baseline and after 7 days, 6-, 12- and 18-month of clinical performance according to the FDI criteria (Word Federation Criteria). Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square test for all parameters. Color change was analyzed by two one-sided t-tests for paired samples (α = 0.05). Results: Regarding the color measurement no significant difference was observed when Vittra APS (FGM Dental Products, Joinville, SC, Brazil) was compared to Vittra Unique (FGM Dental Products, Joinville, SC, Brazil) for any of the comparisons performed (p > 0.05). However, the ΔEab and ΔE00 values for the cervical third, both before and after the restorations, were higher compared to the ΔEab and ΔE00 values observed when comparing the cervical and middle thirds after the restorations. After 18 months, five restorations exhibited minimal discrepancies in terms of marginal adaptation or marginal discoloration (p > 0.05). In all other criteria, including retention rate, no changes were detected at the 18-month recall. Conclusions: The one-shade resin composite used achieve the same color match when compared to a multi-shade resin composite after a period of 7 days in NCCLs. Overall, the restorations scored clinically very good (FDI) at baseline and after 18 months for all outcomes. Clinical Significance: The use of a one-shade resin composite in NCCLs can be recommended because it has the ability to simplify the restoration procedure and maintaining an excellent clinical performance. Registration of clinical trials: RBR-8txr4fw: 26/05/2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Assessing the elements of nursing practice environments is crucial, as investing in their improvement will enhance outcomes for nurses, patients, and organizations. Moreover, comparing practice environments from different countries improves the definition of cross-cutting guidelines that can be applied in various contexts. Thus, this study aims to evaluate nursing practice environments in hospitals in Portugal and Brazil. Methods: A multicenter and cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Portuguese and eight Brazilian hospitals. Five hundred eighty-two nurses completed a survey regarding their sociodemographic and professional attributes, as well as the Scale for the Environments Evaluation of Professional Nursing Practice. The data were subjected to comparative analyses between the two countries. We adhered to ethical requirements in both participating countries. Results: In Brazil, the Structure, Process, and Outcome components were considered favorable to the quality of care and well-being of nurses. In Portugal, nurses considered the Structure and Outcome components favorable and the Process component very favorable. Statistically significant differences were found between the two countries in several dimensions of the three subscales. The Structure and Outcome components scored significantly better in hospitals in Brazil, and the Process component scored better in Portuguese hospitals. Conclusions: These conclusions underscore the urgent need for investment in continuous training and a culture of evaluation that promotes continuous improvement. Additionally, promoting the involvement and participation of nurses could simultaneously contribute to the development of more sustainable health systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an observational qualitative study regarding the use of agile methodologies in implementing project-based student assessment procedures in higher education courses. The study comprised 32 students enrolled in an online biology class in a public university in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Students underwent two types of activities: first using traditional project-based learning, second using an agile approach based on the EduScum methodology. Results demonstrated that the agile methodology enforced student engagement, especially collaboration aspects. Interactions between students and teachers became more acute and straightforward. Moreover, it became easier for teachers to monitor students' performance throughout the course. This study provides highlights to enable schools to improve students' assessment procedures in distance education courses.

Purpose: Looking at the planet as our main and unique asset, the authors encounter fragile zones needing special attention more than others, such as emerging countries. One of their most urgent problems is the qualification gap of the workforce and the consequent increasing poverty and social exclusion. Their backward education system is partially responsible for this disparity, especially in technology-related sectors. In this sense, higher education institutions (HEIs) play a fundamental role in shortening this gap and solving this dichotomy. The purpose of this study is to conduct a systemic study to address the qualification gap of emerging countries, offering a framework to minimize this grand societal challenge, taking Brazilian economy as example. Design/methodology/approach: Using the soft system methodology (SSM), the authors propose systemic solutions to the qualification gap in Brazil by analyzing different stakeholder perceptions and developing a feasible-change framework to transition to an enhanced higher education (HE) model in Brazil. Findings: Results show three main aspects that draw the framework--the education of social and emotional skills, internship support during the first experience in the job market and a closer relationship with employer companies. Research limitations/implications: As a future direction, the framework proposes positive changes focused on soft skills-based education and the partnership between companies and HEIs. Originality/value: The contribution relies on an original application of a system methodology to propose solutions to the qualification gap, involving different stakeholders, their salience and perceptions. The use of SSM to analyze complex problems from stakeholders' perspectives demonstrated how a system approach could empower the stakeholder theory in addressing grand societal challenges.

Objective: To compare the color change, the risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS), and gingival irritation (GI) of at‐home bleaching applied on the buccal surface only or the buccal and lingual surfaces. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients with canines A2 or darker were selected and their superior arches were randomized in two groups: at‐home bleaching on the buccal‐only or on the buccal and lingual surfaces, with 7.5% hydrogen peroxide, for 1 h daily/2 weeks. The color change was evaluated at baseline, 7, 14 days, and 1 month after bleaching using shade guides scales (ΔSGU) and a spectrophotometer (ΔEAB, ΔE00, and ΔWID). Risk and intensity of TS and GI were recorded daily using visual analogic scale (0–10). Patient satisfaction was evaluated with the orofacial esthetics. Paired t‐test, McNemar's, and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test were used for data analysis (α = 5%). Results: Neither the color change nor the risk/intensity of TS was statistically different between groups (p > 0.05). Patient satisfaction increased after bleaching for both groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The addition of one contact surface does not result in an increased whitening degree compared to bleaching applied solely on the buccal surface. Clinical Significance: Understanding the influence of surfaces interacting with the bleaching agent is crucial for comprehending the bleaching mechanism and avoiding unnecessary material expenses. Notably, employing the buccal‐only technique is sufficient to achieve the desired efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The presence of contamination and microorganisms at any stage of processing renders a method unsafe, leading to a high risk of cross-transmission and cross-infection. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the cleaning quality of aspirator instruments used in neurosurgical procedures. Methods: The experimental study was conducted at the materials and sterilization center, as well as the microbiology laboratory, of a philanthropic hospital in Brazil. A study protocol was implemented, which involved the analysis of 10 samples of Yasargil aspirators with varying dimensions. The samples were subjected to protein tests to detect the presence of organic matter and microbiological analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The results indicated that 40% of the instruments tested positive for protein after manual cleaning. Furthermore, after automated cleaning, samples showed an increased microbiological load, with Escherichia coli accounting for 20% and Klebsiella aerogenes for 10% of the identified microorganisms. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of failures in the cleaning process of healthcare products and highlights the presence of biofilm in the pipes, thereby compromising the drinking water quality standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research suggests that sedentary behavior (SB) and obesity are associated with disabilities in basic activities (BADL) and instrumental (IADL) activities of daily living. However, there is a lack of studies investigating this association in community-dwelling older adults. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between different SB typologies, isolated and in conjunction with obesity, and their associations with BADL and IADL disabilities in community-dwelling Brazilian older adults. This was a cross-sectional study using data from older adults (≥60 years) who participated in the Brazilian National Health Survey (2019). The exposures were obesity (BMI > 27 kg/m2) and the amount of time spent daily on SB watching television (SB TV < 3 and ≥3 h/day) and engaging in leisure activities (SB leisure < 3 and ≥3 h/day), analyzed both separately and jointly. The outcomes were BADL and IADL disabilities. The main results showed that isolated SB TV ≥ 3 h/day (OR: 1.26; 95% CI: 1.14; 1.39) and SB TV ≥ 3 h/day combined with obesity (OR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.37; 1.75) increased the odds of BADL and IADL disabilities. Obesity alone (OR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.07; 1.36) increased only the odds of BADL disabilities. Moreover, SB leisure ≥ 3 h/day without obesity reduced the odds of IADL disabilities (OR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.41; 0.76). Ideally, older adults should be encouraged to prevent obesity, reduce excessive periods spent in SB watching TV, and increase the daily periods spent in leisure activities, thus minimizing the likelihood of disabilities in functional activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the great diversity of Brazilian anuran species, there are still many knowledge gaps about the acoustic communication of these animals. Among the species, those classified as 'Data Deficient' have the greatest gaps in knowledge on their behavior. This is the case of Boana ericae, a species belonging to the Boana pulchella group, endemic to the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park region, in the northeast of the state of Goiás, Central Brazil. Three distinct call types (A, B, and C) are currently known for B. ericae, with the type A call associated with attracting reproductive partners and the type C call presenting a territorial function. We recorded the vocalizations of 10 individuals of this species and found the presence of vocalizations composing three new note types (D, E, and F). Our results indicate that air temperature and body condition influenced the acoustic parameters of the advertisement and aggressive calls of this species. We also observed that some acoustic parameters of the advertisement calls can be used for individual recognition for showing greater variation among individuals than intra-individually. Our results add new information regarding the vocal repertoire in this species, expanding their known intra-individual classification of the acoustic parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores how social movement co-governance of public education offers an alternative to neoliberal educational models. The Brazilian Landless Workers Movement (MST) is one of the largest social movements in Latin America. We describe one of the many schools that the MST co-governs, the Itinerant School Paths of Knowledge (Caminhos do Saber), located in an occupied encampment in the state of Paraná. We analyze three of the most unique pedagogical innovations in the school: the teacher's incorporation of 'portions of reality' into classroom teaching, the student work collectives, and the participatory student evaluation process. Although these pedagogies are seemingly mundane changes to everyday school practice, we argue that they represent a challenge to the neoliberal educational model being implemented globally. These movement pedagogies are likely to continue, despite recent conservative attacks, and they offer several concrete lessons for how to effectively contest neoliberal educational practices in other global contexts.

Background and Purpose: Cryotherapy is an affordable and popular treatment of soft tissue injuries, which can reduce inflammation and pain. Studies have specifically addressed young adults and athletes, and these findings have been extended to older adults in clinical practice. Aging is associated with changes in the skin, including collagen degradation, decreased fat layer thickness, and reduced blood flow, which can alter the skin response to stress. Because of age-related changes, there are concerns about the direct use of ice on the skin of older individuals. Skin injuries were also observed after cryotherapy. This study aimed to assess the most effective and safe cryotherapy for superficial skin cooling among older women. Methods: Eighteen older women were enrolled in this blinded, randomized, crossover, clinical trial. The mean values (SD) of their age, height, and weight were 70.0 years (6.0), 156.0 cm (9.1), and 72.8 kg (19.5), respectively. The participants underwent cryotherapy using bagged ice, bagged ice plus a wet towel, or gel pack for 20 minutes. The surface temperature of the skin was measured at the end ofa 20-minute cryotherapy session using an infrared thermometer. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was conducted to analyze the effect of cryotherapy modalities and time, as well as the interaction between these 2 factors. The secondary outcome wasthe presence ofcryotherapy-induced lesions. Results and Discussion: Cryotherapy modalities had significant effects on superficial skin temperature (P = .001). Time points after application also had an effect (P< .001) and no interaction was observed between cryotherapy modalities and time points (P = .051). Bonferroni post hoc evaluation showed that bagged ice (P = .008) and gel (P = .007) were more effective in decreasing the superficial skin temperature than bagged ice plus wet towel. No difference was observed between bagged ice and gel (P = .32). Three of the 18 patients experienced adverse effects with the gel pack. Conclusion: This study of older women found that ice and gel cooled the skin more effectively than ice wrapped in towels. However, the gel pack had some adverse effects. Therefore, bagged ice is recommended for cryotherapy in older women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asymptomatic and underreported individuals remain a source of coronafig disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission to others. Data on the prevalence and epidemiological factors influencing transmission are fundamental for establishing control measures, especially in vulnerable regions such as the Amazon. This study aimed to determine the point prevalence and active infection of COVID-19 among the population in Araguaína, a Brazilian city located in the Amazon region, analyzed the socioeconomic and behavioral variables of a statistically representative sample of this population using an epidemiological survey, and identify the viral genomic diversity in the region. During the sixth epidemiological week of 2021 (February 8 to 12), samples of 497 inhabitants of the municipality asymptomatic for respiratory syndromes underwent reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and serological tests (immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G). A questionnaire collated data on socioeconomic factors, prevention measures, and health status history. The active infection rate was 6.2%, and the prevalence was 13.5% of the study population. Active infection cases were under-reported; each reported positive case represented 14–28 under-reported cases. Lineages P.2, P.1, and B.1.1 were detected. Working from home was a protective factor against the infection, and clinical signs of fever, dry cough, and loss of taste or smell were associated with testing positive (p <0.05). A descriptive analysis of the indicators revealed that the entire population was susceptible to the disease. Intensified vaccination strategies are required regardless of socioeconomic factors, health conditions, and preventive measures. Implementation of objective, comprehensive, and efficient management tools to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in this municipality can serve as a model for other regions of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this study, we looked to evaluate the variation in sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and accuracy (Kappa index) of the microbiological diagnosis for Staphylococcus aureus in a dairy cattle herd subjected to blitz therapy to eradicate Streptococcus agalactiae. The studied dairy herd had an average of 160 lactating Holstein cows and microbiological diagnosis was carried out on all lactating cows for 5 consecutive months. After treating the animals that presented a pure culture of S. agalactiae in microbiological diagnosis in the first and second milk sample collections, isolation of S. aureus was observed in these animals in the following milk sample collections, increasing the sensitivity of the microbiological diagnosis. The results indicate that due to the release of S. agalactiae being greater than that of S. aureus, due to competition in a nutritive culture medium, it was not possible to isolate S. aureus in the first collections. However, after the elimination of S. agalactiae through intramammary antimicrobial treatment, S. aureus began to be identified in the microbiological examination as there was no longer competition between the pathogens in the nutritive culture medium. Bovine mastitis is an important and costly disease to dairy cattle. Diagnostic methods usually performed in Brazil are somatic cell counts (SCC) and milk microbiology. Low bacteria shedding in milk implies no colony growth in microbiological tests and false negative results. Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus are principal pathogens of mixed mastitis. However, S. agalactiae has a higher bacterial release from the mammary gland than S. aureus, affecting microbiological sensitivity to diagnose S. aureus. This study aimed to estimate the SCC and total bacterial count (TBC) from cows according to pathogen isolated in milk and to evaluate variation in S. aureus diagnosis by a microbiological test during S. agalactiae treatment, which is called blitz therapy. Both S. agalactiae and S. aureus presented high SCC means, although S. agalactiae showed shedding of bacteria 2.3 times greater than S. aureus. Microbiological sensitivity to S. aureus increased for 5 months during S. agalactiae treatment. The prevalence of S. agalactiae fell after 5 months of therapeutic procedures. The prevalence of S. aureus increased to 39.0. The results showed that due to high sensitivity, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) could be used at the beginning of blitz therapy with the goal of S. agalactiae eradication from the dairy herd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castor bean (Ricinus communis) is a crop of great economic importance in Brazil. It is used for producing oil used in the manufacture of cosmetics and biodiesel. The genus Phytophthora contains pathogens with a wide range of host plants, including ornamentals, fruit and vegetable crops. Among the symptoms induced by Phytophthora species are collar and root rot. This study aimed to identify Phytophthora species causing collar and root rot in castor bean seedlings in the Federal District and test their pathogenicity. Samples of symptomatic plants were collected in four satellite cities in Distrito Federal, Brazil. Fourteen isolates were obtained, and they were initially identified through the morphology of reproductive structures. The isolates were subjected to molecular characterization using phylogeny of the sequences from the ITS region and the Cytochrome Oxidase II gene. Ten isolates of the pathogen were tested for pathogenicity on seedlings of two castor bean accessions and species known to be hosts of P. nicotianae. The isolates were identified as P. nicotianae (12 isolates) and P. palmivora (two isolates). In the pathogenicity test, all isolates were capable of causing disease in castor beans. The isolates of P. nicotianae and P. palmivora varied in pathogenicity to other plant species. This is the first report of P. nicotianae causing collar and root rot in castor bean in the Central‐West Region of Brazil. It is also the first report of P. palmivora causing diseases in castor beans in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Hypertension is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and a major public health issue worldwide. In Brazil, it affects approximately 52.5% of the adult population. We describe the solutions package and the impact of a population health initiative in São Paulo city, following the CARDIO4Cities approach for the management of cardiovascular risk. METHODS Using a design thinking approach, interventions were developed with a coalition of local and international stakeholders to address needs of patients, healthcare professionals, and the health system. The resulting solution package was checked to comply with guidelines for non-communicable disease and hypertension management. Clinical impact was measured by extracting the hypertension cascade of care—monitored, diagnosis, treatment, and control—from medical records. RESULTS Under the leadership of the municipal health authorities, nine solutions were piloted and scaled across the city. Solutions conform with local and international best-practices. Between October 2017 and December 2021, 11,406 patient records were analyzed. Results showed a 40% increase in monitored patients (patients with at least one blood pressure, BP, measurement); reduced proportions of patients diagnosed among those with available BP measurements (72%–53%) and treated among diagnosed (93%–85%); and an improvement in controlled patients among those receiving treatment (16%–27%). CONCLUSIONS The solution package described in this study was correlated with increased BP control. The implementation methodology and results add to the body of real-world evidence supporting population health implementation science in Brazil and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture is a strategic sector that aims to meet the increased demands for healthy food for current and future populations. However, this progression needs to be sustainable, which can potentially be achieved by the implementation of circular practices. Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems promote the incorporation of circular principles. Nevertheless, the lack of harmonized definitions and standards impedes the quantification of these circular attributes. This study aims to explore the potential principles embedded in IMTA and the existing alternatives to quantify circularity. Two basic pillars (nutrient management and resource use efficiency) were identified as the most relevant circularity attributes for IMTA systems and were quantified through aquaculture-specific indicators. Bioremediation indicators, together with the efficiency indicators in terms of feed, water, energy, and infrastructure materials used, were selected to evaluate the circularity performance of four IMTA trials in three aquaculture facilities in Ireland, Brazil, and South Africa. Salmon, white shrimp, tilapia, abalone, and sea urchins were studied and cultivated together in various combinations with several low-trophic species in these IMTA trials to evaluate the improvement in circularity compared with corresponding monoculture conditions. The results showed an increase in circularity of up to 90% in terms of water recirculation, as well as bioremediation, which was improved by 80%–90%, providing evidence for the potential role of IMTA in the circularity transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional study was conducted to compare the habitual physical activity level, measured by accelerometry, gait performance, assessed by the GAITRite® system, handgrip strength, and static balance between older Brazilian women who participate (n = 50; 70.7 ± 5.5 years) and do not participate (n = 50; 70.1 ± 5.6 years) in a regular physical exercise program, and to investigate whether participation in a regular exercise program ensures compliance with physical activity recommendations. Older women who participated in a regular physical exercise program had significantly shorter sedentary activity time (effect size [ES] = 0.54), longer moderate activity time (ES = 0.85), and higher energy expenditure (ES = 0.64), number of steps (ES = 0.82), gait speed (ES = 0.49), and step length (ES = 0.45). However, regular participation in an exercise program did not guarantee compliance with physical activity recommendations. Behavioral changes to increase physical activity levels among older women who do and do not participate in a regular exercise program are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoonotic sporotrichosis, a subcutaneous mycosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis, has become hyperendemic and a serious public health issue in Brazil and an emerging disease throughout the world. Typical sporotrichosis is defined as fixed or lymphocutaneous lesion development, however, reports of atypical presentations have been described in hyperendemic areas, which may result in a worse prognosis. Thus, considering an increase in atypical cases and in more severe extracutaneous cases and hospitalizations reported in Brazil, we aimed to perform a systematic review to search for hypersensitivity reactions (HRs) and extracutaneous presentations associated with zoonotic sporotrichosis. A systematic review was performed, following the PRISMA guidelines to search for atypical/extracutaneous cases (mucosal, osteoarthritis, HRs, pulmonary, meningeal) of zoonotic sporotrichosis. A total of 791 published cases over 26 years (1998–2023) in eleven Brazilian states were reviewed. Most cases corresponded to a HR (47%; n = 370), followed by mucosal (32%; n = 256), multifocal (8%; n = 60), osteoarthritis (7%; n = 59), meningeal (4%; n = 32), and pulmonary (2%; n = 14) infections. When available (n = 607), the outcome was death in 7% (n = 43) of cases. Here, we show a frequent and worrisome scenario of zoonotic sporotrichosis in Brazil, with a high and dispersed incidence of atypical/extracutaneous cases throughout the Brazilian territory. Therefore, educational measures are necessary to make health professionals and the overall population aware of this fungal pathogen in Brazil as well as in other countries in the Americas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 prompted an unprecedented global response to develop vaccines at an accelerated pace. Messenger RNA (mRNA) and adenovirus vector vaccines emerged as the frontrunners in global immunization efforts, significantly reducing hospitalization, severity, and mortality, supplemented by inactivated virus-based vaccines in developing countries. However, concerns regarding adverse effects, including allergic reactions, have been raised. This study aimed to investigate the adverse effects following COVID-19 vaccination, particularly in atopic and non-atopic individuals. A cohort of 305 volunteers receiving BNT162, ChAdOx1, or CoronaVac vaccines were assessed based on a Skin Prick Test (SPT), specific IgE levels, and clinical history of asthma and rhinitis. Adverse effects were self-reported and scored across the different vaccination shots. The results indicated a notable presence of mild adverse effects following the first and third doses, regardless of vaccine type. ChAdOx1 recipients experienced more adverse effects compared to those receiving BNT162 and CoronaVac, including headaches, muscle pain, fever, chills, nausea, and flu-like symptoms. Atopic individuals receiving ChAdOx1 reported more adverse effects, such as muscle pain, fever, and chills, compared to non-atopic individuals. Conversely, headaches were more frequently reported in non-atopic individuals receiving BNT162 compared to atopic individuals. No anaphylaxis or allergic reactions were reported, indicating valuable evidence supporting the safety of COVID-19 vaccination in individuals with respiratory allergies. This study highlights the importance of understanding vaccine-related adverse effects, particularly in vulnerable populations, to inform vaccination strategies and address safety concerns in global immunization campaigns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Patient referral prioritizations is an essential process in coordinating healthcare delivery, since it organizes the waiting lists according to priorities and availability of resources. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to highlight the consequences of decentralizing ambulatory patient referrals to general practitioners that work as family physicians in primary care clinics. METHODS: A qualitative case study was carried out in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro. The ten health regions of Rio de Janeiro were visited during fieldwork, totalizing 35 hours of semi-structured interviews and approximately 70 hours of analysis based on the Grounded Theory. RESULTS: The findings of this study show that the obstacles to adequate referrals are beyond the management of vacancies, ranging from the standardization of prioritization criteria to ensuring the proper employment of referral protocols in diverse locations assisted by overloaded health workers with different backgrounds and perceptions. Efforts in decentralizing patient referral to primary care still face the growing dilemmas and challenges of expanding the coverage of health services while putting pressure on risk assessment, as well as sustaining the autonomy of physicians' work while respecting the eligibility when ordering waiting lists. CONCLUSION: A major strength of this work is on the method to organize and aggregate qualitative data using visual representations. Limitations concerning the reach of fieldwork in vulnerable and hardly accessible areas were overcame using snowball sampling techniques, making more participants accessible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Path analysis (PA) is a widely used multivariate statistical technique. When performing PA, the effects of the parameters of the mathematical model relating to the experimental design are disregarded, working only with the average effects of the treatments. Aims. We aimed to analyse the implications of statistical assumptions, and of removing mathematical model parameters, on the PA results in oat. Methods. A field study was conducted in southern Brazil in five crop years. The experimental design employed was a two-factor 22 × 5 randomised complete block design, characterised by 22 cultivars and five fungicide applications, with three repetitions. Six explanatory variables were measured, panicle length, panicle dry mass, panicle spikelet number, panicle grain number, panicle grain dry mass, and harvest index, and the primary variable yield. Initially, normality and multicollinearity diagnoses were carried out and correlation coefficients were calculated. The PA was performed in three ways: traditional, with measures to address multicollinearity (ridge), and traditional with eliminating variables. Key results and conclusions. The occurrence of multicollinearity resulted in obtaining path coefficients without biological application. Removing the model's parameters modifies the path coefficients, with average changes of 10.5% and 13.3% in the direction, and 24.7% and 23.0% in the magnitude, of the direct and indirect effects, respectively. Implications. This new approach makes it possible to remove the influences of treatments and experimental design from observations and, consequently, from path coefficients and their interpretations. Therefore, the researcher will reduce possible bias in the coefficient estimates, highlighting the real relationship between the variables, and making the results and interpretations more reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the factors that influence acoustic activity of anuran species is essential for proper species management and herein, we investigated the influence of landscape metrics (% native vegetation cover and number of patches), latitude and climatic variables (temperature and relative humidity) on the acoustic activity of Physalaemus cuvieri. We used Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) to record the acoustic activity in males of the target species in 29 water bodies distributed throughout the Cerrado, the Brazilian savanna. We investigated whether the rate of call emission by P. cuvieri males is influenced by predictor variables based on generalized linear mixed models. The call rate of P. cuvieri males was influenced only by air temperature variation throughout night. We found a peak of acoustic activity in the warmer hours in the beginning of the night followed by a decrease as the air temperature declines throughout the dawn. Contrary to our expectations, we did not find any significant influence of latitude, relative humidity or landscape metrics (number of fragments or percentage of native vegetation cover) on the acoustic activity of P. cuvieri. The impacts of landscape metrics on the acoustic activity of P. cuvieri are not significant, because it is a species with more generalist ecological requirements, which to allow the individuals to move across the landscape to be successful in colonizing water bodies situated in altered environments. Previous studies have suggested that changes in temperature may affect species phenology, since individuals alter their vocal activity, or their time spent in chorus in response to climate change. In this sense, our results are important because they allow us to predict the impact of future climate change on the acoustic activity of the target species, as well as demographic implications. We tested the influence of latitude, landscape metrics and climatic variables on the acoustic activity of Physalaemus cuvieri. The acoustic activity of Physalaemus cuvieri is strongly influenced by weather conditions, specifically air temperature. Latitude and landscape metrics did not influence the call emission rates of P. cuvieri males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue fever, a prevalent and rapidly spreading arboviral disease, poses substantial public health and economic challenges in tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwide. Predicting infectious disease outbreaks on a countrywide scale is complex due to spatiotemporal variations in dengue incidence across administrative areas. To address this, we propose a machine learning ensemble model for forecasting the dengue incidence rate (DIR) in Brazil, with a focus on the population under 19 years old. The model integrates spatial and temporal information, providing one-month-ahead DIR estimates at the state level. Comparative analyses with a dummy model and ablation studies demonstrate the ensemble model's qualitative and quantitative efficacy across the 27 Brazilian Federal Units. Furthermore, we showcase the transferability of this approach to Peru, another Latin American country with differing epidemiological characteristics. This timely forecast system can aid local governments in implementing targeted control measures. The study advances climate services for health by identifying factors triggering dengue outbreaks in Brazil and Peru, emphasizing collaborative efforts with intergovernmental organizations and public health institutions. The innovation lies not only in the algorithms themselves but in their application to a domain marked by data scarcity and operational scalability challenges. We bridge the gap by integrating well-curated ground data with advanced analytical methods, addressing a significant deficiency in current practices. The successful transfer of the model to Peru and its consistent performance during the 2019 outbreak in Brazil showcase its scalability and practical application. While acknowledging limitations in handling extreme values, especially in regions with low DIR, our approach excels where accurate predictions are critical. The study not only contributes to advancing DIR forecasting but also represents a paradigm shift in integrating advanced analytics into public health operational frameworks. This work, driven by a collaborative spirit involving intergovernmental organizations and public health institutions, sets a precedent for interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing global health challenges. It not only enhances our understanding of factors triggering dengue outbreaks but also serves as a template for the effective implementation of advanced analytical methods in public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preemergence herbicides are traditionally applied uniformly throughout the area; however, weed control may vary due to spatial variability of the soil within the same area. Precision agriculture tools such as variable rate applications of herbicides improve weed control, making it necessary to know the physicochemical characteristics of the soil. The objective of this study was to map the spatial variability of sorption–desorption and agronomic efficiency of indaziflam and metribuzin for weed management in a field of 17.5 ha of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Fifty-five soil samples were collected (0–10 cm depth) and based on their physicochemical characteristics and the sorption and desorption coefficients for indaziflam and metribuzin, determined by a batch equilibrium method, thematic maps were generated for each variable in QGIS (Quantum Geographic Information System). In addition, the bioavailability concentration of each herbicide was determined, and its efficacy was evaluated in controlling Amaranthus hybridus and Eleusine indica in a representative soil sample. The sorption coefficient (Kd(s)) of indaziflam ranged from 6.9 to 40.5 L kg−1, the sorbed percentage (S%) from 61 to 86.6%, the desorbed percentage (D%) from 8.4 to 33.1%, and the total bioavailability (TB%) from 26 to 55.7%. The Kd(s) values of metribuzin ranged from 1.1 to 4.3 L kg−1, S% from 22.8 to 33.9%, D% from 17.2 to 22.0%, and TB% from 79.4 to 96.7%. Organic matter was highly correlated with the TB% of indaziflam (r = –0.8) and metribuzin (r = –0.7). Soil solution equilibrium concentration (Ce) of 1.9 g a.i. ha−1 of indaziflam controlled 80% of A. hybridus and E. indica. The Ce values of metribuzin were 55.2 and 111.2 g a.i. ha−1 to control 80% of A. hybridus and E. indica, respectively. Recommendations of varied doses provided reductions of 17.6% in the total application of indaziflam and 9.8% of metribuzin concerning the highest dose recommended in the field. The characterization of the soil physicochemical characteristics as well as the determination of the total bioavailability of indaziflam and metribuzin, by knowing the sorption–desorption coefficients, allowed for the recommendation of variable and precise doses of herbicides for the efficient management of A. hybridus and E. indica in preemergence, reducing potential negative environmental impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the penetration of hydrogen peroxide (HP) into the pulp chamber and the color change of different bleaching varnishes in low concentrations used for at‐home bleaching. Materials and Methods: Ninety healthy premolars were used, randomly distributed into nine groups (n = 10) according to bleaching varnish (PL, PolaLuminate; VS, VivaStyle Paint On Plus; CA, Cavex Bite&White whitening pen and; AW AlignerWhite) and time (10 and 30 min), and a control group (no bleaching). The penetration of HP was evaluated by UV–Vis spectroscopy. To evaluate the color change (ΔEab, ΔE00, ΔWID) a digital spectrophotometer was used (α = 0.05). Results: The AW group in 10 min and the control group showed similar and lower HP penetration in the pulp chamber when compared to the other groups (p = 0.003). Increasing the application time to 30 minutes elevated the amount of HP inside the pulp chamber for all groups (p = 0.003), except for PL (p > 0.05). When applied for 30 min all bleaching varnishes showed higher color change (ΔWID) when compared to 10 min (p = 0.04). Conclusions: For all bleaching varnishes evaluated, PolaLuminate applied for 30 min showed lower penetration into the pulp chamber and higher bleaching effects. Clinical Significance: The use of bleaching varnishes seems promising for teeth bleaching, but it varies according to user product and protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The herbicide tembotrione is effective against grassy weeds constituting an important tool in sorghum crops. However, in Brazil, this herbicide is only registered for corn. This study aimed to evaluate the selectiveness of tembotrione combined with atrazine at different doses and developmental stages of grain sorghum. Two experiments were conducted in Rio Verde and Montividiu, state of Goiás, Brazil, in 2018. A randomized block design with four replications, in a 3x2+1+1 factorial arrangement, tested three developmental stages (V3, V5 and V7), two doses of tembotrione (37.8 and 75.6 g ha-1) combined with the herbicide atrazine (1,000 g ha-1), an additional treatment only with atrazine at V3 and a control, free of herbicide. Evident phytotoxicity was observed with the combination of tembotrione and atrazine at V3 and V5 stages. Symptoms included reductions in plant height, sorghum stem diameter, panicle length, and cumulative dry mass of sorghum plant shoots. However, there was no influence on thousand grains mass, regardless of application stages. Tembotrione at 37.8 g ha-1 combined with atrazine at 1,000 g ha-1 was selective for grain sorghum when applied at V7, without affecting grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article addresses the conservative modernization in professional education in Brazil starting from Law 13.415/2017, promoting endogenous privatization policies. The authors discuss how the educational policy of the Temer and Bolsonaro governments resulted in the counter-reform of professional education in the Federal Institutes, with influences from private institutions, distance education, and entrepreneurship. The presence of entrepreneurship in the curricula of the Federal Institutes reflects neoliberal and neoconservative ideology, impacting the formation of students. The research highlights the importance of defending public education in the face of current reforms. [Extracted from the article]

Many factors drive land desertification, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. However, the sheer number of these driving factors of desertification makes analyses computer-intensive. Cloud computing offers a solution to address this problem, especially in developing countries. The objective of this work was to assess the sensitivity of the East Atlantic Basin, Brazil, to desertification using the Mediterranean Desertification and Land Use (MEDALUS) model and Google Earth Engine (GEE). The model is composed of four environmental Quality Indices (QIs) associated with soil (SQI), vegetation (VQI), climate (CQI), and management (MQI), each encompassing factors that influence the desertification process. Digital databases corresponding to these factors were pre-processed and uploaded to GEE for analysis. We report Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) and Environmentally Critical Factors (ECF) maps of the East Atlantic Basin, which show that most of the basin is in either a critical (49.4%) or fragile (35.7%) state of sensitivity. In contrast, only a smaller portion of the area is unaffected (5%) or potentially affected (10.1%). The analysis also revealed an inverse correlation between desertification sensitivity and the presence of vigorous vegetation. A joint evaluation of ESAs and ECF shed light on the importance of each factor in the sensitivity to desertification. The East Atlantic Basin shows a high degree of sensitivity to desertification, thereby demanding more attention and the establishment of measures to mitigate the negative impacts of the desertification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sedimentary basins in the Continental Rift of Southeastern Brazil (CRSB) provide an opportunity for ichnological analyses due to its well-known facies relationships and paleoenvironmental interpretations. This study reports invertebrate trace fossils from the Neogene fluvial deposits (Floriano Formation) and applies integrated ichnological and facies analyses to reconstruct the environmental conditions recorded in this lithostratigraphic unit. Fieldworks revealed a rich ichnofauna in the Floriano Formation, whose facies associations have been interpreted as indicative of meandering river environments. Four sedimentary facies were identified, including bioturbated sandstone, horizontally stratified sandstone, laminated sandstone, and mudstone. Six ichnogenera were identified, Arenicolites, Beaconites, Camborygma, Palaeophycus, Skolithos, and Taenidium. Those ichnogenera occur as Skolithos, Taenidium, and Beaconites ichnocoenoses. The Skolithos ichnocoenosis is primarily represented within sand bar deposits, indicating arthropod colonization in abandoned channels. The Taenidium ichnocoenosis, which is observed within mudstone layers and presents Camborygma burrows, suggests transitional environments between aquatic and subaerial conditions, locally with high water table levels. The Beaconites ichnocoenosis indicates changes in substrate consistency associated with progressive desiccation and extended exposure time. Therefore, the identified ichnocoenoses, combined with the analysis of physical sedimentary structures, suggest generally humid conditions during colonization by invertebrates of the meandering river deposits of the Floriano Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Many restaurants offer high-quality service to their customers, hoping to provide memorable experiences that influence their loyalty and electronic word of mouth (eWOM). However, consumers' memorable experiences do not always imply positive eWOM. This study aims to (1) verify the direct impacts of the perceived quality by consumers of casual dining restaurants on positive emotions, negative emotions and memorable experiences; (2) investigate the impacts of memorable experiences on the propensity to loyalty and eWOM; (3) test the moderating effect of consumer behavioural engagement on social networking sites (CBE-SNS) on the relationship between memorable experiences and eWOM. Design/methodology/approach: This survey included 475 university students in Brazil. Participants answered an electronic form about their experiences in casual dining restaurants. Structural equation modelling tested the hypothetical model based on the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) theory (Mehrabian and Russell, 1974). Findings: The quality perceived by restaurant consumers (stimulus) positively impacts their memorable experiences and positive emotions and negatively affects their negative emotions (organism). Memorable experiences positively impact the propensity to loyalty (response). The CBE-SNS moderates the intensity of the relationship between memorable experiences (organism) and eWOM (response). Originality/value: This study is the first that demonstrates the relationships between perceived quality, positive and negative emotions, memorable experiences, the propensity to loyalty and CBE-SNS and e-WOM in restaurants. Casual dining restaurants must offer their customers services with high perceived quality, positively impacting their emotions and their memorable experiences. Finally, restaurants must create strategies and actions to increase the CBE-SNS to encourage them to share their memorable experiences through eWOM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine whether the systemic diseases diabetes mellitus (DM) and arterial hypertension (AH), and smoking status are associated with apical periodontitis (AP) in a representative rural population. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study using a representative sample of individuals obtained from a population-based epidemiological survey carried out in the rural area of the city of Rosário do Sul, RS, Brazil, from March 2015 to May 2016. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and clinical examination. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables independently associated with AP. Results: Of the 584 individuals included in the study, 353 (60.4%) had AP. The presence of AP was independently associated with age ≥ 40 years (odds ratio [OR] = 1.867, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.193–2.923, p = 0.006), non-white ethnicity (OR = 1.509, 95% CI: 1.029–2.115, p = 0.035), active or former smoker (OR = 2.087, 95% CI: 1.241–3.510, p = 0.006) and DM or prediabetes (OR = 1.676, 95% CI: 1.150–2.443, p = 0.007). Conclusion: The study identified significant associations between AP and demographics, smoking status, and systemic disease in a Brazilian rural population. Clinical relevance: The study emphasized the significance of comprehending and managing associated factors in preventing and treating AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative analysis of the acoustic communication system in anurans is a relevant step toward understanding how acoustic traits variation is related to conspecific recognition and discrimination. Here, we report on the advertisement call variation of male Scinax fuscomarginatus at three levels: within-individual, between-individual, among-populations. We examined 635 advertisement calls of 127 individuals from 10 populations in Central Brazil. Fieldworks were carried out during eight breeding seasons, from 2008 to 2016. We used the coefficient of variation (CV), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) to evaluate whether the call features differed statistically. The advertisement call structure consisted of a single multipulsed note with stereotyped acoustic features. These features were statistically different at between-individual level and the relative variability (CV) was higher between-individual than within-individual of the same population. MANOVA performed with PCA scores indicates that call traits are different among populations. Hence, we suggest the advertisement call features of male S. fuscomarginatus show sufficient statistical differences for interindividual and interpopulation distinction. We also discuss the role of the stereotyped acoustic features on mate choice and intraspecific distinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate, at a national level, which individual factors of the work process/infrastructure are associated with the achievement of goals in the periodontics specialty in Brazilian Dental Specialty Centers (BDSC). Methods: This was a quantitative, analytical, cross-sectional study. Secondary data from DATASUS and the external evaluation of the second cycle of the BDSC Access and Quality Improvement Program were used. Variable description was carried out in the first stage, and then the bivariate Poisson regression was performed to verify possible associations between the variables and the outcome (achievement of goals in Periodontics in the BDSC). In this analysis, the covariates that were associated with the outcome at the p <0.20 significance level were included in the next step of the analysis. Multivariate Poisson regression with a robust estimator was then performed with those that met the above criterion. The variables that showed a p value < 0.05 were considered in the final model. Results: The outcome was achieved in more than seven months of the year (mean 7.03 months, SD 4.20). Most BDSC monitored the established goals (93.2%), had referral as the only way of access (61.7%), had only municipal coverage (68.4%), carried out planning and periodic evaluation of actions (89.2%). A minority has quotas of procedures by Oral Health teams (OHTs) in Primary Health Care (PHC) (18.8%). The presence of a specialist in periodontics was (on average) 1.16 per BDSC and the sum of the workload of dentists working in this specialty was 31.1 hours (SD = 23.9). Conclusion: It was concluded that the individual factors of the work process/infrastructure associated with the achievement of goals in periodontics in Brazilian BDSC are: monitoring of established goals, BDSC scope and number of professionals working in the specialty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptostegia grandiflora and C. madagascariensis (Apocynaceae) are the only two species of this Madagascan plant genus. Both have been transported around the world as ornamentals due to their attractive flowers and based on a perceived potential as sources of rubber - hence, the common name rubber vine - because of their copious latex, which also contains toxic cardiac glycosides. As a result of their vigorous growth and ability to climb over and smother vegetation, both species have become invasive, posing an actual or potential threat to native ecosystems in many tropical and sub-tropical countries, as well as to human and animal health. Classical biological control (CBC), or the introduction of co-evolved natural enemies to control an invasive alien species in its exotic range, has successfully been used to tackle C. grandiflora in northern Queensland, Australia. This strategy is currently being evaluated for its suitability to manage C. madagascariensis in north-eastern Brazil using the same Madagascan rust fungus, Maravalia cryptostegiae, released as a CBC agent in Australia. For CBC to be successful, it is critical to understand the taxonomy of the invader as well as the origin(s) of its weedy biotype(s) in order to select the best-matched co-evolved natural enemies. Based on an exhaustive search in published and unpublished sources, we summarise the taxonomy and uses of these rubber vines, follow their historical movements and track their earliest records and current weed status in more than 80 countries and territories around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, high levels of agricultural activity are reflected in the consumption of enormous amounts of pesticides. The production of grain in Brazil has been estimated at 289.8 million tons in the 2022 harvest, an expansion of 14.7% compared with 2021. These advances are likely associated with a progressive increase in the occupational exposure of a population to pesticides. The Paraoxonase 1 gene (PON1) is involved in liver detoxification; the rs662 variant of this gene modifies the activity of the enzyme. The repair of pesticide-induced genetic damage depends on the protein produced by the X-Ray Repair Cross-Complementing Group 1 gene (XRCC). Its function is impaired due to an rs25487 variant. The present study describes the frequencies of the rs662 and rs25487 and their haplotypes in a sample population from Goiás, Brazil. It compares the frequencies with other populations worldwide to verify the variation in the distribution of these SNPs, with 494 unrelated individuals in the state of Goiás. The A allele of the rs25487 variant had a frequency of 26% in the Goiás population, and the modified rs662 G allele had a frequency of 42.8%. Four haplotypes were recorded for the rs25487 (G > A) and rs662 (A > G) markers, with a frequency of 11.9% being recorded for the A–G haplotype (both modified alleles), 30.8% for the G–G haplotype, 14.3% for the A–A haplotype, and 42.8% for the G–A haplotype (both wild-type alleles). We demonstrated the distribution of important SNPs associated with pesticide exposure in an area with a high agricultural activity level, Central Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epiperipatus ohausi (Bouvier, 1900) is the first species known from Rio de Janeiro, and more than 120 years later a new species is described in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ). In this study, we describe the second species in the state of Rio de Janeiro, which we are naming in honor of the indigenous population called puri who resided in southeastern coastal Brazil. The species can be diagnosed mainly by large dorsal primary papillae close to the insertion of the legs drawing a light band from the anterior to the posterior region of the body, and large dorsal primary papillae alternating on the dorsal plicae. Moreover, they are recognized in vivo by the color of the diamond-shaped marks brownish orange on the dorsal portion of the body. Epiperipatus puri sp. nov. morphologically seems to be related to Epiperipatus acacioi (Marcus & Marcus, 1995) by the shape of the primary papillae apical piece and to E. ohausi by the resemblance of dorsal papillae. The phylogeny shows a close relationship between the new species and E. ohausi in a clade with a still undescribed species from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil located within the Atlantic Forest, one of the most threatened biomes in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on predicting diabetic neuropathy (DN) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and highlights the importance of identifying modifiable risk factors. The key topics discussed are the relationship between TNF-α levels, hypertension, glycated hemoglobin, and lower limb pain as predictors of DN, the association between TNF-α serum levels and the TNF-α-308G/A polymorphism in DN susceptibility, and the impact of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α on DN development.

The development of wind turbines for regions with low wind speeds imposes a challenge to the expansion of the corresponding energy generation capacity. The present work consists of an evaluation of the potential carded jute fiber and jute yarn to be used in the construction of a wind blade for regions of low wind intensity. The fibers used were supplied by Company Textile of Castanhal (Castanhal-Para-Brazil) and used in the study without chemical treatment in the form of single-filament fibers and yarns with a surface twist of 18.5°. The composites were produced through the resin infusion technique and underwent tensile and shear tests using 120-Ohm strain gauges and a blade extensometer to obtain the Young's modulus. In the analysis of the results, the ANOVA test was applied with a 0.05 significance level, followed by Tukey's test. The results showed that long, aligned jute fibers can be a good option for laminated structures applied in composites for small wind turbine blades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Not exclusive to the Brazilian punk/hardcore scene, the counterculture movement also historically involved other musical genres, such as rap, as well as other groups, political parties, and social movements. The focus of the book is on urban mobility and music: protests for free transport, in combination with the punk/hardcore movement between 1996 and 2011. The Brazilian punk/hardcore movement took shape in the post-dictatorial period after 1985, revealing the precarious displacement of young people between the urban peripheries and centers - a perverse dimension of big cities. [Extracted from the article]