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Abstract The toxic potential of dithiocarbamates fungicides widely used in world agriculture is well known, among which Mancozeb is one of the most used. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of Mancozeb, determining the LC50% of the product and the behavioral and histological changes observed in fish of the Pacamã species through acute and sublethal toxicity tests. The first experiment was carried out on Pacamã fingerlings exposed to dosages of 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8mg/L of Mancozeb under the form ManzateWG®, for a total period of 96 hours in the acute experiment, and in the second experiment, fish were subjected to concentrations of 1/10 of those used in the acute experiment (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.8mg/L, respectively), for 15 days in total. The 50% lethal concentration of ManzateWG® was calculated at the end of the acute experiment, presenting a value of 2.29mg/L at 96h for Pacamã fingerlings. A behavioral assessment was carried out through daily observation of the fish during both experiments, and an increase in mucus production was observed, as well as atypical social behavior in those exposed to the toxic agent. Histopathological evaluation was performed on livers collected after the end of the sublethal experiment, and the main hepatic alterations observed were cytoplasmic vacuolization, inflammatory infiltrate, and necrosis. Mancozeb has toxic potential and is capable of generating behavioral changes, as well as increasing the risk of liver damage in Pacamãs exposed to this compound.

Abstract Background Our understanding of the etiology, pathophysiology, phenotypic diversity, and progression of Parkinson’s disease has stagnated. Consequently, patients do not receive the best care, leading to unnecessary disability, and to mounting costs for society. The Personalized Parkinson Project (PPP) proposes an unbiased approach to biomarker development with multiple biomarkers measured longitudinally. Our main aims are: (a) to perform a set of hypothesis-driven analyses on the comprehensive dataset, correlating established and novel biomarkers to the rate of disease progression and to treatment response; and (b) to create a widely accessible dataset for discovery of novel biomarkers and new targets for therapeutic interventions in Parkinson’s disease. Methods/design This is a prospective, longitudinal, single-center cohort study. The cohort will comprise 650 persons with Parkinson’s disease. The inclusion criteria are purposely broad: age ≥ 18 years; and disease duration ≤5 years. Participants are followed for 2 years, with three annual assessments at the study center. Outcomes include a clinical assessment (including motor and neuro-psychological tests), collection of biospecimens (stool, whole blood, and cerebrospinal fluid), magnetic resonance imaging (both structural and functional), and ECG recordings (both 12-lead and Holter). Additionally, collection of physiological and environmental data in daily life over 2 years will be enabled through the Verily Study Watch. All data are stored with polymorphic encryptions and pseudonyms, to guarantee the participants’ privacy on the one hand, and to enable data sharing on the other. The data and biospecimens will become available for scientists to address Parkinson’s disease-related research questions. Discussion The PPP has several distinguishing elements: all assessments are done in a single center; inclusion of “real life” subjects; deep and repeated multi-dimensional phenotyping; and continuous monitoring with a wearable device for 2 years. Also, the PPP is powered by privacy and security by design, allowing for data sharing with scientists worldwide respecting participants’ privacy. The data are expected to open the way for important new insights, including identification of biomarkers to predict differences in prognosis and treatment response between patients. Our long-term aim is to improve existing treatments, develop new therapeutic approaches, and offer Parkinson’s disease patients a more personalized disease management approach. Trial registration Clinical Trials NCT03364894. Registered December 6, 2017 (retrospectively registered).

Ten samples of kidney stone had been studied through elemental analysis of CHN (EA), Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy and X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRD). The thermal behavior of the samples is studied by Thermogravimetry/Derivative Thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The results of AE, IV absorption Spectroscopy and XRD showed the presence of struvite (NH4Mg [PO4].6H2O), apatite, monohydrated calcium oxalate and dihydrated calcium oxalate. The TG and DSC curves allowed to classify the samples in two different groups: Group I show typical thermal behavior of struvite and Group II present a profile thermal analytical characteristic of a mixture of calcium oxalate.

Abstract Background Hybrids are expected to show greater phenotypic variation than their parental species, yet how hybrid phenotype expression varies with genetic distances in closely-related parental species remains surprisingly understudied. Here, we investigate pelage and morphometric trait variation in anthropogenic hybrids between four species of Brazilian Callithrix marmosets, a relatively recent primate radiation. Marmoset species are distinguishable by pelage phenotype and morphological specializations for eating tree exudates. In this work, we (1) describe qualitative phenotypic pelage differences between parental species and hybrids; (2) test whether significant quantitative differences exist between parental and hybrid morphometric phenotypes; and (3) determine which hybrid morphometic traits show heterosis, dysgenesis, trangression, or intermediacy relative to the parental trait. We investigated cranial and post-cranial morphometric traits, as most hybrid morphological studies focus on the former instead of the latter. Finally, we estimate mitogenomic distances between marmoset species from previously published data. Results Marmoset hybrid facial and overall body pelage variation reflected novel combinations of coloration and patterns present in parental species. In morphometric traits, C. jacchus and C. penicillata were the most similar, while C. aurita was the most distinct, and C. geoffroyi trait measures fell between these species. Only three traits in C. jacchus x C. penicillata hybrids showed heterosis. We observed heterosis and dysgenesis in several traits of C. penicillata x C. geoffroyi hybrids. Transgressive segregation was observed in hybrids of C. aurita and the other species. These hybrids were also C. aurita-like for a number of traits, including body length. Genetic distance was closest between C. jacchus and C. penicillata and farthest between C. aurita and the other species. Conclusion We attributed significant morphometric differences between marmoset species to variable levels of morphological specialization for exudivory in these species. Our results suggest that intermediate or parental species-like hybrid traits relative to the parental trait values are more likely in crosses between species with relatively lesser genetic distance. More extreme phenotypic variation is more likely in parental species with greater genetic distance, with transgressive traits appearing in hybrids of the most genetically distant parental species. We further suggest that fewer developmental disturbances can be expected in hybrids of more recently diverged parental species, and that future studies of hybrid phenotypic variation should investigate selective pressures on Callithrix cranial and post-cranial morphological traits.

Abstract P53 Phase separation is crucial towards amyloid aggregation and p63 and p73 have enhanced expression in tumors. This study examines the phase behaviors of p53, p63, and p73. Here we show that unlike the DNA-binding domain of p53 (p53C), the p63C and p73C undergo phase separation, but do not form amyloids under physiological temperatures. Wild-type and mutant p53C form droplets at 4°C and aggregates at 37 °C with amyloid properties. Mutant p53C promotes amyloid-like states in p63C and p73C, recruiting them into membraneless organelles. Amyloid conversion is supported by thioflavin T and Congo red binding, increased light scattering, and circular dichroism. Full-length mutant p53 and p63C (or p73C) co-transfection shows reduced fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. Heparin inhibits the prion-like aggregation of p63C and p73C induced by p53C. These findings highlight the role of p53 in initiating amyloid aggregation in p63 and p73, opening avenues for targeting prion-like conversion in cancer therapy.

Abstract The significant interest in actinide bonding has recently focused on novel compounds with exotic oxidation states. However, the difficulty in obtaining relevant high-quality experimental data, particularly for low-valent actinide compounds, prevents a deeper understanding of 5f systems. Here we show X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) measurements in the high-energy resolution fluorescence detection (HERFD) mode at the uranium M4 edge for the UIII and UIV halides, namely UX3 and UX4 (X = F, Cl, Br, I). The spectral shapes of these two series exhibit clear differences, which we explain using electronic structure calculations of the 3d-4f resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) process. To understand the changes observed, we implemented crystal field models with ab initio derived parameters and investigated the effect of reducing different contributions to the electron-electron interactions involved in the RIXS process. Our analysis shows that the electron-electron interactions weaken as the ligand changes from I to F, indicative of a decrease in ionicity both along and between the UX3 and UX4 halide series.

Abstract Background The genotype-by-environment interaction (GxE) in beef cattle can be investigated using reaction norm models to assess environmental sensitivity and, combined with genome-wide association studies (GWAS), to map genomic regions related to animal adaptation. Including genetic markers from whole-genome sequencing in reaction norm (RN) models allows us to identify high-resolution candidate genes across environmental gradients through GWAS. Hence, we performed a GWAS via the RN approach using whole-genome sequencing data, focusing on mapping candidate genes associated with the expression of reproductive and growth traits in Nellore cattle. For this purpose, we used phenotypic data for age at first calving (AFC), scrotal circumference (SC), post-weaning weight gain (PWG), and yearling weight (YW). A total of 20,000 males and 7,159 females genotyped with 770k were imputed to the whole sequence (29 M). After quality control and linkage disequilibrium (LD) pruning, there remained ∼ 2.41 M SNPs for SC, PWG, and YW and ∼ 5.06 M SNPs for AFC. Results Significant SNPs were identified on Bos taurus autosomes (BTA) 10, 11, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25 and 27 for AFC and on BTA 4, 5 and 8 for SC. For growth traits, significant SNP markers were identified on BTA 3, 5 and 20 for YW and PWG. A total of 56 positional candidate genes were identified for AFC, 9 for SC, 3 for PWG, and 24 for YW. The significant SNPs detected for the reaction norm coefficients in Nellore cattle were found to be associated with growth, adaptative, and reproductive traits. These candidate genes are involved in biological mechanisms related to lipid metabolism, immune response, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, and energy and phosphate metabolism. Conclusions GWAS results highlighted differences in the physiological processes linked to lipid metabolism, immune response, MAPK signaling pathway, and energy and phosphate metabolism, providing insights into how different environmental conditions interact with specific genes affecting animal adaptation, productivity, and reproductive performance. The shared genomic regions between the intercept and slope are directly implicated in the regulation of growth and reproductive traits in Nellore cattle raised under different environmental conditions.

Soil correction and fertilization are important in the formation of pastures, but many producers neglect them or use ineffective alternatives. Slow-release fertilizers may harm the establishment of forage plants, as this is a crucial moment during the pasture formation stage. The objective was to evaluate establishment fertilization strategies on the morphogenic, structural characteristics and productivity of Xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés). To this end, two experimental trials were conducted in a greenhouse, both under a completely randomized design. In the first, three establishment fertilization strategies were tested (strategy 1: without lime/NPK; strategy 2: lime + NPK; strategy 3: natural reactive phosphate), with six replications. In the second, a 3 × 10 factorial scheme was used, corresponding to the three establishment fertilization strategies and 10 evaluation dates (32, 39, 46, 53, 60, 67, 74, 81, 88, and 95 days) after emergence. of plants (DAE). In experiment 1 the morphogenic characteristics of the plant were evaluated, in the second the structure and dry mass production of the aerial part and roots of Xaraés grass were evaluated Higher (P

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted Brazil, highlighting significant gaps in public health infrastructure. This study aims to analyze the spatial-temporal distribution of COVID-19 cases in Alagoas. The study covers all 102 municipalities in Alagoas, using official data from the Alagoas COVID-19 Panel. It is observational and retrospective with an ecological and quantitative approach. Data were collected up to July 2, 2022, totaling 305,806 cases. Spatial analysis was performed using R Statistical software, with Global Moran's Index (GMI) and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISAs) identifying spatial clusters. In 2020, municipalities showed significant but weak spatial autocorrelation (GMI = 0.2084; p < 0.05). High-High clusters appeared in Maceió and nearby municipalities. In 2021, spatial autocorrelation remained weak (GMI = 0.2344; p < 0.05). High-High clusters persisted in Satuba and Maceió, while Low-Low clusters expanded into northeastern Alagoas by 2022. The reduction in High-High clusters in Maceió in 2022 likely resulted from early vaccination efforts. The spatial distribution pattern of COVID-19 in Alagoas reveals significant insights into regional pandemic dynamics. Stable infection rates in the center-west and south of Alagoas may be due to lower population density and less movement. The dynamic nature of COVID-19 spread highlights the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive public health strategies. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions and future research to refine spatial models and incorporate additional variables to enhance predictive accuracy and inform public health strategies.

Introdução: A difteria é uma doença infecciosa com alta incidência em menores de 15 anos e apresentava grande morbi-mortalidade antes da existência da vacina. Atualmente, no Brasil, registram-se menos de 5 casos confirmados por ano graças à alta cobertura vacinal observada até meados da última década. A transmissão ocorre por contato ou via respiratória (gotículas), mesmo entre portadores assintomáticos. As manifestações clínicas incluem sintomas respiratórios, cutâneos e a possível evolução para casos graves. Objetivo: Relatar caso de difteria em paciente adulto, imunocompetente e vacinado. Método: Relato de caso. Resultados: Homem, 57 anos, motorista de ônibus escolar, antecedente de câncer de próstata tratado em 2021, procurou atendimento médico após um dia do início de tosse, mialgia, rinorreia com secreção espessa e odinofagia, tendo sido prescrito sintomáticos. Após 5 dias, houve piora do quadro, com edema cervical, odinofagia, hiporexia, febre (39°C) e sialorreia e foi internado para avaliação otorrinolaringológica. Ao exame, apresentava placas esbranquiçadas em palato mole, pilares amigdalianos e orofaringe e placas pseudomembranosas amareladas na rinoscopia. Na laringoscopia, foi visto edema e hiperemia interaritenoide. Em seguida, foi coletado material para culturas e biologia molecular. Na tomografia de face, havia espessamento mucoso e nível líquido nos seios maxilares bilaterais, proeminente à direita. Considerando o quadro, aventou-se a hipótese de difteria, sendo iniciado Penicilina Cristalina e soro antidiftérico. O caso foi notificado e a investigação pela Vigilância Epidemiológica revelou que o paciente apresentava 3 doses de vacina dT, sendo a última em 2017. Após 3 dias do início do tratamento, o paciente foi transferido para o Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto, onde foi mantida terapia com Penicilina Cristalina por 14 dias, prescrito Prednisolona devido ao edema e otimizada a analgesia. A cultura e reação em cadeia da polimerase foram positivas para Corynebacterium diphtheriae e, assim, iniciou-se a investigação epidemiológica em contactactantes da cidade de origem. Conclusão: A baixa experiência clínica decorrente da prevalência atual da difteria pode ser um fator dificultador para o diagnóstico e tratamento precoce, levando a maior risco de complicações e óbitos. Nesse caso, ressalta-se um provável vínculo epidemiológico pela atividade profissional (exposição a crianças) e a manifestação característica mesmo com vacinação atualizada.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is initiated by a primary insult that triggers a cascade of pathological events, including damage to lung epithelial and endothelial cells, extracellular matrix disruption, activation of immune cells, and the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. These events lead to increased alveolar-capillary barrier permeability, resulting in interstitial/alveolar edema, collapse, and subsequent hypoxia and hypercapnia. ARDS not only affects the lungs but also significantly impacts the cardiovascular system. We conducted a comprehensive literature review on heart-lung crosstalk in ARDS, focusing on the pathophysiology, effects of mechanical ventilation, hypoxemia, and hypercapnia on cardiac function, as well as ARDS secondary to cardiac arrest and cardiac surgery. Mechanical ventilation, essential for ARDS management, can increase intrathoracic pressure, decrease venous return and right ventricle preload. Moreover, acidemia and elevations in transpulmonary pressures with mechanical ventilation both increase pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricle afterload. Cardiac dysfunction can exacerbate pulmonary edema and impair gas exchange, creating a vicious cycle, which hinders both heart and lung therapy. In conclusion, understanding the heart-lung crosstalk in ARDS is important to optimize therapeutic strategies. Future research should focus on elucidating the precise mechanisms underlying this interplay and developing targeted interventions that address both organs simultaneously.

Computational strategies to extract meaningful biological information from multiomics data are in great demand for effective clinical use, particularly in complex immune-mediated disorders. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for immune homeostasis and self-tolerance, controlling inflammatory and autoimmune processes in many diseases with a multigenic basis. Here, we quantify the Transcription Factor (TF) differential occupancy landscape to uncover the Gene Regulatory Modules governing lineage-committed Tregs in the human thymus, and show that it can be used as a tool to prioritise variants in complex diseases. We combined RNA-seq and ATAC-seq and generated a matrix of differential TF binding to genes differentially expressed in Tregs, in contrast to their counterpart conventional CD4 single-positive thymocytes. The gene loci of both established and novel genetic interactions uncovered by the Gene Regulatory Modules were significantly enriched in rare variants carried by patients with common variable immunodeficiency, here used as a model of polygenic-based disease with severe inflammatory and autoimmune manifestations. The Gene Regulatory Modules controlling the Treg signature can, therefore, be a valuable resource for variant classification, and to uncover new therapeutic targets. Overall, our strategy can also be applied in other biological processes of interest to decipher mutational hotspots in individual genomes.

Abstract Ganoderma lingzhi is widely reported for its medicinal properties, presenting several bioactive substances with potential pharmaceutical and industrial application. This study aimed to evaluate the production of mycelial biomass, extracellular enzymes and antioxidant compounds by G. lingzhi under submerged fermentation. G. lingzhi was cultured in Polysaccharide (POL) and Melin-Norkrans (MNM) media for 7 days. The cellulases, xylanases, pectinases, laccases, and proteases activities were quantified in the culture broth, while the antioxidant potential was evaluated for the mycelial biomass. G. lingzhi showed higher biomass production in MNM. However, it exhibited similar microstructural characteristics in both culture media. In the POL there was greater activity of CMCase (0.229 U/mL), xylanase (0.780 U/mL), pectinase (0.447 U/mL) and proteases (16.13 U/mL). FPase did not differ (0.01 U/mL), and laccase was detected only in MNM (0.122 U/mL). The biomass water extract from MNM showed high levels of phenolic compounds (951.97 mg AGE/100 g). DPPH• inhibition (90.55%) and reducing power (0.456) were higher in MNM medium, while ABTS•+ inhibition (99.95%) and chelating ability (54.86%) were higher in POL. Thus, the MNM medium was more favorable to the production of mycelial biomass and phenolic compounds, while the POL medium favored the synthesis and excretion of hydrolytic enzymes.

The sulfonated-carbon based catalyst obtained from crambe meal was successfully applied in the esterification reaction of oleic acid. The chemometric tools allowed to evaluate the significance of the parameters: time, catalyst dosage and ethanol-to-oleic acid molar ratio, as well as their interactions towards the conversion yield of oleic acid via esterification reaction. The results showed that the molar ratio had the highest influence in the conversion yield. The analysis of Responses Surfaces and desirability function indicated that is possible undergoes around 75% of oleic acid into esters from the following experimental conditions: time of 2 h, catalyst dosage of 11 wt.% and ethanol-to-oleic acid molar ratio of 18:1 (v:wt.). From the optimization of the factors, it was possible obtain a good conversion yield of oleic acid applying conditions similar or inferior to those reported in the literature. After four cycles of use, the catalyst still gave a conversion yield of 29%. The decrease of esterification yield was evaluated throughout FTIR spectra, which corroborate the losing of sulfonic groups after each reuse cycle concomitantly with the yield decreasing.

Desmatamento é o processo de desaparecimento de massas florestais, fundamentalmente causadas pela atividade humana, com a retirada da cobertura vegetal em determinada área para utilização comercial de madeira, implantação de projetos agropecuários e também na expansão urbana. Como em qualquer área que necessite de uma cobertura vegetal, a UFERSA também enfrenta uma problemática frequente, a replantação de árvores exóticas invasoras, ao invés de nativas da região. Dessa forma o presente trabalho tem como objetivo não somente avaliar e mapear a densidade da flora do local, mas também evidenciar possíveis problemas e disponibilizar soluções. Procurou-se dividir a vegetação em dois grupos: as nativas e as exóticas. Foi realizada a demarcação dos pontos de acordo com a localização das espécies, com a finalidade de identificar e quantificar as espécies de plantas nativas e exóticas. Dentre todas as espécies amostradas, 24 espécies (25,3%) são representantes de espécies nativas e 71 espécies (74,7%) são exóticas. A arborização da UFERSA segue o padrão observado na maioria das áreas verdes públicas das cidades brasileiras, com grande número de espécies exóticas em relação às nativas. Em vista de uma melhor estrutura física fica evidente a necessidade de uma maior arborização, tendo como incentivo o plantio de espécies nativas, que proporcionem sombra, alimento e sirvam de abrigo para a fauna local, não apenas na UFERSA, mas em toda a região que vem perdendo sua flora natural em favor de plantas exóticas. Survey of species of native and exotic vegetation coverage found in the campus of Federal Rural University west of the Semi-arid region Abstract: Deforestation is the process of disappearance of forest masses, basically caused by human activity, with the withdrawal of the vegetation cover in particular area for commercial use of wood, deployment of agricultural projects and also in urban expansion. As in any area that needs a plant cover, the UFERSA also faces a frequent problem, replanting trees invasive alien, instead of native to the region. This way the objective of the present work is to not only assess and map the density of the flora of the site but also highlight potential problems and provide solutions. We sought to divide the vegetation in two groups: the native and exotic. Was performed the demarcation of points of agreement with the location of the species, with the purpose of identifying and quantifying the species of native and exotic plants. Among all the species sampled, 24 species (25.3%) are representatives of native species and 71 species (74.7%) are exotic. The afforestation of UFERSA follows the pattern observed in the majority of public green areas of the Brazilian cities with large number of exotic species in relation to the native. In view of a better physical structure, it is evident the need for a greater afforestation, having as encouraging the planting of native species, which provide shade, food and serve as a shelter for the local fauna, not only in UFERSA, but throughout the region that is losing its natural flora in favor of exotic plants.

O manejo do solo pode alterar as propriedades físicas do solo, sendo de grande importância para garantir o estabelecimento de plântulas e produtividade. A inovação de implementos e máquinas agrícolas e excesso de tratos culturais durante o manejo são os principais fatores que interferem nestas características. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da compactação de solos com diferentes classes texturais (argilosa e muito argilosa) no crescimento inicial de ervilha. O experimento foi montado em casa de vegetação com sementes de ervilha Itapuã 600. Cada tratamento contou com 4 repetições de 50 sementes em diferentes graus de compactação dos solos, com aplicações três cargas sobre os solos que resultaram em: argiloso: controle: 0,21, T1: 0,26, T2: 0,28 e T3: 0,33 MPa, textura muito argilosa: controle: 0,40, T1: 0,42, T2: 0,46 e T3: 0,53 MPa. Foram avaliados a porcentagem de emergência, IVE, VE, comprimento de parte aérea e raiz, massa seca de parte aérea, raiz e massa seca total. Para as duas classes texturais a compactação teve influência sobre a massa seca da parte aérea no solo com textura argilosa e para IVE no solo com textura muito argilosa. Porém, ambos não tiveram relação direta com o nível de compactação. Initial growth of pea under different compaction levels of two types of soils Abstract: Soil management can alter the physical properties of the soil, being of great importance to ensure adequate levels of crop productivity. The innovation of agricultural implements and machinery and excess cultural practices during handling are the main factors that affect these characteristics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of compaction of soils with different texture classes (clay and heavy clay) on the initial growth of pea. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the Department of Fitotecnia at UFV. Itapuã 600 pea seeds were used. Each treatment consisted of 4 replicates of 50 seeds for each compression level (T1, T2, T3 and without compression) for the two soil textural classes. Were evaluated: emergency, IVE, VE, length of shoot and root dry weight of shoot, root mass and total dry mass. For both textural classes compaction is not observed influence on the parameters analyzed, except for dry weight of shoots in clayey soil, IVE in clayey soil. However, both were not directly related to the level of compression.

Instead of using the traditional space-time Fourier analysis of filtered specific atmospheric fields, a normal-mode decomposition method was used to analyze South American intraseasonal variability (ISV). Intraseasonal variability was examined separately in the 30–90-day band, 20–30-day band, and 10–20-day band. The most characteristic structure in the intraseasonal time-scale, in the three bands, was the dipole-like convection between the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (SACZ) and the central-east South America (CESA) region. In the 30–90-day band, the convective and circulation patterns were modulated by the large-scale Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO). In the 20–30-day and 10–20-day bands, the convection structures were primarily controlled by extratropical Rossby wave trains. The normal-mode decomposition of reanalysis data based on 30–90-day, 20–30-day, and 10–20-day ISV showed that the tropospheric circulation and CESA–SACZ convective structure observed over South America were dominated by rotational modes (i.e., Rossby waves, mixed Rossby-gravity waves). A considerable portion of the 30–90-day ISV was also associated with the inertio-gravity (IGW) modes (e.g., Kelvin waves), mainly prevailing during the austral rainy season. The proposed decomposition methodology demonstrated that a realistic circulation can be reproduced, giving a powerful tool for diagnosing and studying the dynamics of waves and the interactions between them in terms of their ability to provide causal accounts of the features seen in observations.

Abstract The biometric differences between fruits and seeds are useful characteristics that can provide important data for the investigation and preservation of the species and may be linked to environmental and genetic influences. In this sense, considering the importance of this species and the need for conservation, the objective was to carry out physical characterization of the fruits and seeds of Hymenaea martiana as well as to determine the seed imbibition curve. The experiment was conducted at the Seed Analysis Laboratory at the Agricultural Sciences Center at the Federal University of Paraíba in Areia, PB. The evaluations carried out were as follows: biometry of fruits and seeds, number of seeds per fruit, colorimetry of fruits and seeds, percentage of damaged seeds, weight of a thousand seeds, seed water content, mass and imbibition curve. The biometric data were subjected to descriptive analysis to determine the minimum, maximum, average value, standard deviation, asymmetry, and kurtosis of the fruits and seeds. In terms of the biometric characteristics of the fruits and seeds of H. martiana, there was a marked variation, with average fruit lengths of 90.28 mm, widths of 46.83 mm, thicknesses of 34.69 mm, weights of 65.86 g and four seeds per fruit. The average length, width, thickness and weight of the seeds were 23.75 mm, 18.34 mm, 12.71 g and 4.13 g, respectively. The fruits were darker than the seeds, and both the fruits and seeds had red tones. Compared with nonscarified seeds, scarified seeds absorb a greater amount of water.

Abstract Measuring stable isotopes in different tissues offers the opportunity to provide insight into the foraging ecology of a species. This study aimed to assess how diet varies between yellow females, yellow males, and dull individuals of a Saffron Finch (Sicalis flaveola) population. We measured δ13C and δ15N in blood over a year, and in different feathers, to estimate seasonal consistency of resource use for each category. We conducted this study in a private farm in the Central Brazilian savannas. We sampled 195 individuals in seven field samplings between January 2017 and March 2018. The mean blood δ13C values were similar among yellow females, yellow males and dull individuals, indicating that this population of Saffron Finch predominantly accesses similar resources throughout the year, with a predominant C4 signal. Although Saffron Finch is considered a granivorous species, the mean δ15N values found indicate that both adults and juveniles also incorporate in their tissues some invertebrate. The slight isotope-tissue difference between feathers and blood is similar to the reported in previous studies and may reflect tissue-to-tissue discrimination. The isotopic space of yellow males was greater than that of yellow females and dull individuals, indicating greater dietary diversity due to greater inter-individual variation in diet. In Saffron Finch, which delays plumage maturation, competition-driven partitioning of food resources seems essential in driving carotenoid-based plumage coloration between age classes and sexes.

Abstract The need to transition to more sustainable agriculture that is adaptable to environmental challenges, reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers and minimizing environmental impact, represents the new paradigm of the moment. In this scenario, studies with the adoption of bioinputs in corn cultivation emerge as a viable option for the sustainability of agricultural activity. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the effect of doses of neem vegetable cake on the yield components of corn crops. An experimental design was used of randomized blocks was used, consisting of four doses of neem vegetable rendering (3 kg ha-1, 6 kg ha-1, 9 kg ha-1 and 12 kg ha-1) and a treatment control without the presence of organic fertilizer. The result indicates the presence of a significant effect of treatments with the application of neem cake on the main components of corn yield, including grain productivity, suggesting that the high carbon content present in the organic product can induce phytochemical effects and biological changes. in the soil, making it more productive. It was found that, when administering the maximum experimental dose, compared to the control group, there was a significant effect (p≤0.01) of 21.3% on grain productivity, jumping from 2,140 kg ha -1, when did not apply organic fertilizer, to 2,596 kg ha-1 with the application of 12 kg of neem cake per hectare. It is noted that the increase in grain productivity was in the proportion of 38 kg ha-1 of corn for each kilo of neem cake applied. To facilitate interpretation and decision-making, an analysis of the economic viability of neem cake for rainfed corn was also determined, also identifying the maximum experimental dose of 12 kg ha-1, as the most economically viable, providing an increase in profit of around R$ 119.92 per hectare, in relation to the control.

Aims: This study aimed to assess the use of glucometers by patients and the analytical performance of glucometers provided by the primary care services. Methods: The analytical performance of 48 glucometers Accu-Chek® Active, was assessed through quintuplicate analyses of one Roche and one PNCQ (National Quality Control Program) control sample at different concentrations; 31 were also evaluated by a single proficiency testing sample. The evaluation metrics included imprecision, bias, and total error and were measured according to quality specifications based on biological variation (QSBV). Glucometer users answered a questionnaire regarding their experience. Results: Among the 48 glucometers evaluated with internal control samples, 17 met precision criteria at both control levels according to QSBV, while 24 met the criteria at only one control level. Of the 31 glucometers further evaluated through proficiency test, 11 met accuracy criteria according to QSBV, and only one device showed an unacceptable result. Out of these 31, only 15 demonstrated a total error within the acceptable maximum limits based on QSBV. Conclusions: Overall, our findings showed that patients had a good understanding of glucometer usage and suggested that some glucometers should be replaced, as they sometimes failed to meet even the manufacturer’s acceptable variation limits, and/or did not meet QSBV.

Objective: Self-efficacy is a characteristic that helps university students to fulfill pedagogical and academic tasks and goals. The support of the family or the skills of students are important to their university career, which may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to analyze whether family influence and study approaches and skills can predict self-efficacy and whether the relationship between family influence and self-efficacy can be mediated by students’ study approaches and skills. Methods: Participated in the study 174 Portuguese university students of both genders, with an average age of 23.70 years (±8.47). The instruments applied were the Family Influence Scale, Higher Education Self-Efficacy Scale, Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students (short version) and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Results: The study approaches and skills predicts of self-efficacy and mediates the relationship between family influence and self-efficacy. Conclusion: Knowing the important impact of study approaches and skills on students’ self-efficacy will contribute to the definition of support strategies that universities should promote, in a pandemic and post-pandemic phase, for the mental health and academic success of their community.

Este artículo aborda la siguiente pregunta de investigación: ¿Cuáles son los alcances y limitaciones de la innovación social para impulsar el desarrollo local sostenible de la comunidad indígena de Tlajomulco? Para responder a esta interrogante, se desarrollaron proyectos en el marco de la innovación social, utilizando metodologías participativas con el fin de promover el desarrollo local sostenible. Para lograr este objetivo, resultó fundamental tomar en cuenta la realidad de la comunidad y considerarla el punto de partida. El análisis de los proyectos constato que la colaboración en el campo del desarrollo local sostenible resulta crucial para lograr el éxito de los éstos. Y, los hallazgos obtenidos indican que los resultados satisfactorios no dependen exclusivamente de la existencia de confianza y beneficio mutuo entre los actores involucrados, sino también de la capacidad para trascender los intereses individuales y trabajar en conjunto hacia la consecución de intereses colectivos que promuevan el desarrollo sostenible de la comunidad. Este hallazgo representa un aporte significativo a la literatura especializada en el campo y hace un llamado a la reflexión y la acción para promover prácticas colaborativas efectivas en el ámbito del desarrollo local sostenible.

The International Patient Organisation for Primary Immunodeficiencies (IPOPI) held its second Global Multi-Stakeholders’ Summit, an annual stimulating and forward-thinking meeting uniting experts to anticipate pivotal upcoming challenges and opportunities in the field of primary immunodeficiency (PID). The 2023 summit focused on three key identified discussion points: (i) How can immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy meet future personalized patient needs? (ii) Pandemic preparedness: what’s next for public health and potential challenges for the PID community? (iii) Diagnosing PIDs in 2030: what needs to happen to diagnose better and to diagnose more? Clinician-Scientists, patient representatives and other stakeholders explored avenues to improve Ig therapy through mechanistic insights and tailored Ig preparations/products according to patient-specific needs and local exposure to infectious agents, amongst others. Urgency for pandemic preparedness was discussed, as was the threat of shortage of antibiotics and increasing antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for representation of PID patients and other vulnerable populations throughout crisis and care management. Discussion also covered the complexities of PID diagnosis, addressing issues such as global diagnostic disparities, the integration of patient-reported outcome measures, and the potential of artificial intelligence to increase PID diagnosis rates and to enhance diagnostic precision. These proceedings outline the outcomes and recommendations arising from the 2023 IPOPI Global Multi-Stakeholders’ Summit, offering valuable insights to inform future strategies in PID management and care. Integral to this initiative is its role in fostering collaborative efforts among stakeholders to prepare for the multiple challenges facing the global PID community.

Abstract Plants that produce allelopathic compounds against weeds have emerged as a potential solution for the development of ecologically correct bioherbicides. Talinum triangulare is noteworthy in this regard, as its phytochemical composition encompasses flavonoids, alkaloids and other metabolites that can be used to develop inhibitory weed growth solutions. Lactuca sativa (lettuce) has been widely applied as a bioindicator species for bioherbicides and several chemicals, animal waste, water and soil quality, and atmospheric contamination, among others. In this context, this study aimed to assess the potential allelopathic effect of aqueous T. triangulare extracts on the development of L. sativa seedlings. A completely randomized design employing a 2x4 factorial scheme (shoot and root extracts) x the concentration of each extract (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5%) was applied, comprising four replications. Lactuca sativa seeds were sown on germitest papers soaked with the extracts in a germination chamber at 20°C. Physiological seed evaluations comprising the germination test, where normal and abnormal seedlings are counted on the seventh day after sowing, first normal seedling counts on the fourth day after sowing, and seedling and root length measurements. At the end of the germination test, L. sativa seedlings were separated for morphoanatomical characterizations and chlorophyll a fluorescence analyses. The T. triangulare extracts significantly influenced L. sativa root growth, with shoot extract exposure leading to more abnormal plants and lower root lengths at increasing concentrations and compared to the root extract. Root extract exposure led to evident cellular changes and lower non-photochemical quenching and unregulated dissipation quantum yields at a 5% exposure dose compared to shoot extract exposure. These findings suggest that both aqueous T. triangulare root and shoot extracts from 5% exposure doses exhibit high potential as bioherbicides, acting directly on plant structure, anatomy, quality, size and physiology.

In the event of a hypothetical tactical nuclear device being detonated in a densely populated urban area, the first responders must be well-prepared to make immediate decisions with limited information. To aid in this preparation, a computer simulation using the HotSpot Health Physics code was conducted to model the detonation of a tactical nuclear device in an international airport and its surroundings, considering different yields ranging from 1 to 10 kilotons. The simulation was conservative and applied to a time window of 4 days in the initial phase of the response to the event. The simulation findings allow for assessing the immediate effects of the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and the radioactive contamination plumes on an inhabited area. This assessment includes data on the size of impacted zones, compromise of critical local infrastructure, radiological risk to potentially affected populations, and estimation of urban resilience and its temporal dynamics. This information helps raise levels of protection and optimize available resources.

Energy conservation is crucial in wireless ad hoc sensor network design to increase network lifetime. Since communication consumes a major part of the energy used by a sensor node, efficient communication is important. Topology control aims at achieving more efficient communication by dropping links and reducing interference among simultaneous transmissions by adjusting the nodes’ transmission power. Since dropping links make a network more susceptible to node failure, a fundamental problem in wireless sensor networks is to find a communication graph with minimum interference and minimum power assignment aiming at an induced topology that can satisfy fault-tolerant properties. In this paper, we examine and propose linear integer programming formulations and a hybrid meta-heuristic GRASP/VNS (Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure/Variable Neighborhood Search) to determine the transmission power of each node while maintaining a fault-tolerant network and simultaneously minimize the interference and the total power consumption. Optimal biconnected topologies for moderately sized networks with minimum interference and minimum power are obtained using a commercial solver. We report computational simulations comparing the integer programming formulations and the GRASP/VNS, and evaluate the effectiveness of three meta-heuristics in terms of the tradeoffs between computation time and solution quality. We show that the proposed meta-heuristics are able to find good solutions for sensor networks with up to 400 nodes and that the GRASP/VNS was able to systematically find the best lower bounds and optimal solutions.

In the context of rapid urbanization, the problem of long travel times has become a significant problem for contemporary cities, both socially and economically. Although dynamic route guidance has emerged as a promising solution to minimize travel times in large road networks, existing route planning frameworks often lead to congestion on certain routes, as vehicles with the same travel itinerary tend to follow the same route due to lack of central coordination. To address this challenge, this paper introduces a novel framework for centrally coordinating all vehicles on a road network. The proposed framework aims to optimize the average travel time of all vehicles while considering the fairness of all vehicles. The effectiveness of this framework has been evaluated through simulations and compared with three popular benchmark frameworks using a well-known traffic scenario and a real-world traffic scenario. The experimental results have shown that this framework outperforms the benchmark frameworks.

Abstract APX3330 ((2E)‐2‐[(4,5‐dimethoxy‐2‐methyl‐3,6‐dioxo‐1,4‐cyclohexadien‐1‐yl)methylene]‐undecanoic acid), a selective inhibitor of APE1/Ref‐1, has been investigated in treatment of hepatitis, cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and macular edema. APX3330 is administered orally as a quinone but is rapidly converted to the hydroquinone form. This study describes the pharmacokinetics of APX3330 and explores effect of food on absorption. Total plasma quinone concentrations of APX3330 were obtained following oral administration from studies in healthy Japanese male subjects (single dose‐escalation; multiple‐dose; food‐effect) and patients with cancer patients. Nonlinear mixed effects modeling was performed using Monolix to estimate pharmacokinetic parameters and assess covariate effects. To further evaluate the effect of food on absorption, a semi‐physiologic pharmacokinetic model was developed in Gastroplus to delineate effects of food on dissolution and absorption. A two‐compartment, first order absorption model with lag time best described plasma concentration‐time profiles from 49 healthy Japanese males. Weight was positively correlated with apparent clearance (CL/F) and volume. Administration with food led to an 80% higher lag time. CL/F was 41% higher in the cancer population. The semi‐physiologic model indicates a switch from dissolution‐rate control of absorption in the fasted‐state to gastric emptying rate determining absorption rate in the fed‐state. Oral clearance of APX3330 is higher in patients with cancer than healthy Japanese males, possibly due to reduced serum albumin in patients with cancer. Delayed APX3330 absorption with food may be related to higher conversion to the more soluble but less permeable hydroquinone form in the gastrointestinal tract. Future work should address pharmacokinetic differences between APX3330 quinone and hydroquinone forms.

Background: Ischaemic stroke may be a major complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Studying and characterising the different aetiological subtypes, clinical characteristics, and functional outcomes may be valuable in guiding patient selection for optimal management and treatment. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively on consecutive patients with COVID-19 who developed acute focal brain ischaemia (between 1 March and 19 April 2020) at a tertiary university hospital in Madrid (Spain). Results: During the study period, 1594 patients were diagnosed with COVID-19. We found 22 patients with ischaemic stroke (1.38%), 6 of whom did not meet the inclusion criteria. The remaining 16 patients were included in the study (15 cases of ischaemic stroke and one case of transient ischaemic attack).Median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 9 (interquartile range: 16), and mean (standard deviation) age was 73 years (12.8). Twelve patients (75%) were men. Mean time from COVID-19 symptom onset to stroke onset was 13 days. Large vessel occlusion was identified in 12 patients (75%).We detected elevated levels of D-dimer in 87.5% of patients and C-reactive protein in 81.2%. The main aetiology was atherothrombotic stroke (9 patients, 56.3%), with the predominant subtype being endoluminal thrombus (5 patients, 31.2%), involving the internal carotid artery in 4 cases and the aortic arch in one. The mortality rate in our series was 44% (7 of 16 patients). Conclusions: In patients with COVID-19, the most frequent stroke aetiology was atherothrombosis, with a high proportion of endoluminal thrombus (31.2% of patients). Our clinical and laboratory data support COVID-19–associated coagulopathy as a relevant pathophysiological mechanism for ischaemic stroke in these patients. Resumen: Introducción: El ictus isquémico puede ser una complicación grave en los pacientes con infección por SARS-CoV-2.Estudiar y caracterizar los diferentes subtipos etiológicos, las características clínicas y el pronóstico funcional podrá resultar útil en la selección de pacientes para un manejo y tratamiento óptimos. Métodos: La recogida de variables se hizo de forma retrospectiva en pacientes consecutivos con infección por COVID-19 que desarrollaron un episodio de isquemia cerebral focal (entre el 1 de Marzo 1, 2020, y el 19 de Abril, 2020). Se llevó a cabo en un hospital universitario de tercer nivel en la Comunidad de Madrid. (España). Resultados: Durante el período de estudio 1594 pacientes fueron diagnosticados de infección por COVID 19. Identificamos 22 pacientes con ictus isquémico (1.38%), de estos no cumplieron los criterios de inclusión 6. Un total de 16 pacientes con isquemia cerebral focal constituyeron la serie del estudio (15 con ictus isquémico y 1 con accidente isquémico transitorio).En la valoración basal en el National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) la mediana fue de 9 (Rango Intercuartil RIQ: 16), la edad media fue de 73 años (DE ± 12.8). 12 pacientes fueros varones (75%). El tiempo desde los síntomas de COVID-19 hasta el ictus fue de 13 días. Se encontró oclusión de gran vaso en 12 pacientes (75%).El dímero –D estuvo elevado en el 87.5% y la proteína C reactiva en el 81.2% de los casos. La etiología más frecuente del ictus isquémico fue la aterotrombosis (9 pacientes, 56.3%) con un subtipo predominante que fue el trombo endoluminal sobre placa de ateroma (5 pacientes, 31.2%), 4 de ellos en la arteria carótida interna y uno de ellos en el arco aórtico. La mortalidad en nuestra serie fue del 44% (7 de 16 pacientes). Conclusiones: En los pacientes con ictus y COVID-19 la etiología más frecuente fue la aterotrombótica con una elevada frecuencia de trombo endoluminal sobre placa de ateroma (31.2% de los pacientes). Nuestros hallazgos clínicos y de laboratorio apoyan la coagulopatía asociada a COVID-19 como un mecanismo etiopatogénico relevante en el ictus isquémico en este contexto.

This article conducts an analysis of the BRICS member countries in terms of their national and international institutions, with a special emphasis on how these institutions affect the stability of the global financial system and the promotion of development. To this end, the work was guided by the attributions of national central banks and the role played by the G20 in maintaining international financial stabilization. Additionally, the analysis examines the activities of national development banks and their institutions established within the BRICS nations, such as the Contingent Reserve Arrangement and the New Development Bank. The descriptive method was used to interpret the dynamics of international political and legal relations. The article concludes by recognizing the decreasing significance of multilateral solutions and highlighting the need for the national central and development banks of the BRICS countries to engage in communication with international organizations of financial cooperation.

Background and Aim of Study: Caring for individuals afflicted with dementia engenders substantial demands and responsibilities for caregivers, encompassing the extensive time allocation devoted to the care recipient on a daily basis. Furthermore, the psychological attributes inherent in informal caregivers, encompassing traits like social anxiety and social phobia, can exert an influence on the evolution of their personal dynamics over time. This phenomenon potentially yields repercussions for how caregivers offer guidance and assistance to elderly individuals grappling with dementia, particularly in relation to their fundamental daily activities and instrumental tasks. The aim of the study: to analyze the predictive effect of social anxiety and social phobia as psychological characteristics of caregivers, along with the impact of caregiving hours as caregiving-related characteristics, on caregivers’ personality. Material and Methods: This observational and cross-sectional study comprised a sample of 97 participants serving as primary family caregivers completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Big Five Inventory, the Anxiety Scale in Social Interaction Situations, and the Social Phobia Scale. Results: The findings revealed that social phobia demonstrated significant predictive power for Openness (β=-0.199; p=0.016) and Extraversion (β=-0.136; p=0.024), whereas the daily caregiving hours negatively affected Conscientiousness (β=-0.145; p=0.011), Agreeableness (β=-0.137; p=0.040), Openness (β=-0.210; p=0.011), and Extraversion (β=-0.175; p=0.003). Conversely, social anxiety did not prove to be a significant variable. Conclusions: The presence of social phobia or higher hours devoted to caregiving for individuals with dementia are factors that impact personality functioning and should be considered in the planning of support programs for family caregivers.

Background and Aim of Study: The physical performance that children exhibit when engaging in sports or any form of physical activity will depend not only on their physical abilities but also on their psychological and cognitive attributes. The aim of the study: to analyze whether symptoms of anxiety, lie, attention, and age are predictors of arithmetic abilities in children practicing sports. Material and Methods: The study sample consisted of 108 children with an average age of 12.12 (±2.18) who practice various sports, with greater emphasis on futsal and soccer. The study protocol consisted of a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scale, the d2 Test of Attention, and the Arithmetic subtest of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Results: The results showed that through the adjusted model, we identify four significant explanatory variables that are predictors of arithmetic abilities, namely anxiety symptoms (β=-0.009, p=0.009); and the attention sub-factors: processed characters (β=0.002, p=3.44e-14), default errors (β=-0.005, p=0.000), errors by marking irrelevant characters (β=-0.016, p=0.003). Conclusions: The presence of anxiety symptoms and attentional cognitive abilities play a significant role in predicting the arithmetic aptitudes of young individuals. These variables should be taken into consideration within training programs for young athletes, as they hold relevance for sports engagement.

Abstract Background We aimed to evaluate the pulmonary and cerebral effects of low-tidal volume ventilation in pressure-support (PSV) and pressure-controlled (PCV) modes at two PEEP levels in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Methods In this randomized experimental study, AIS was induced by thermocoagulation in 30 healthy male Wistar rats. After 24 h, AIS animals were randomly assigned to PSV or PCV with VT = 6 mL/kg and PEEP = 2 cmH2O (PSV-PEEP2 and PCV-PEEP2) or PEEP = 5 cmH2O (PSV-PEEP5 and PCV-PEEP5) for 2 h. Lung mechanics, arterial blood gases, and echocardiography were evaluated before and after the experiment. Lungs and brain tissue were removed for histologic and molecular biology analysis. The primary endpoint was diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) score; secondary endpoints included brain histology and brain and lung molecular biology markers. Results In lungs, DAD was lower with PSV-PEEP5 than PCV-PEEP5 (p

Objectives: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the cyclic fatigue strength of clockwise cutting rotary endodontic instruments when subjected to two different kinematics: continuous clockwise rotation and clockwise reciprocation movement under optimum torque reverse (OTR) motion. Methods: New ProTaper Next X1 (n = 20) and X2 (n = 20) instruments were randomly divided into two subgroups (n = 10) based on kinematics (continuous rotation or OTR). The specimens were tested using a custom-made device with a non-tapered stainless-steel artificial canal measuring 19 mm in length, featuring a 6 mm radius and an 86-degree curvature. All instruments were tested with a lubricant at room temperature until a fracture occurred. The time to fracture and the length of the separated fragment were recorded. Subsequently, the fractured instruments were inspected under a scanning electron microscope for signs of cyclic fatigue failure, plastic deformation, and/or crack propagation. The subgroup comparisons for time to fracture and instrument length were performed using the independent samples t-test, with the level of statistical significance set at 0.05. Results: When using OTR movement, the ProTaper Next X1 increased the time to fracture from 52.9 to 125.8 s (p < 0.001), while the ProTaper Next X2 increased from 45.4 to 66.0 s (p < 0.001). No subgroup exhibited plastic deformations, but both showed dimpling marks indicative of cyclic fatigue as the primary mode of failure. Additionally, OTR movement resulted in more metal alloy microcracks. Conclusions: The use of OTR motion extended the lifespan of the tested instruments and resulted in a higher number of metal microcracks. This suggests that OTR motion helped to distribute the mechanical stress more evenly across the instrument, thereby relieving localized tension. As a result, it delayed the formation of a single catastrophic crack, enhancing the overall performance of the instruments during the experimental procedures.

Surfactants can be used as nanoparticle stabilizing agents. However, since synthetic surfactants are not economically viable and environmentally friendly, biosurfactants are emerging as a green alternative for the synthesis and stabilization of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles have been applied in several areas of industry, such as the production of biomedical and therapeutic components, packaging coating, solar energy generation and transmission and distribution of electrical energy, among others. The aim of this study was to synthesize, in a simple and green way, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the biosurfactant produced by Candida lipolytica UCP 0899 as a stabilizer. AgNPs were examined and morphologically characterized using the techniques of ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–visible), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Newly formed silver nanoparticles showed a maximum UV–visible absorption peak at 400 nm, while a shift to 410 nm was observed in those stored for 120 days. SEM micrograph confirmed the formation of nanoparticles with an average size of 20 nm and with a predominant spherical structure, while a zeta potential of −60 mV suggested that the use of the biosurfactant promoted their stability. Stabilized nanoparticles were tested for their antimicrobial activity against bacterial isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Enterobacter sp., as well as fungal isolates of Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. At a concentration of 16.50 µg/mL, AgNPs inhibited the growth of all target microorganisms according to the following decreasing order: E. coli (95%), S. aureus, C. albicans (90%), A. niger (85%), Enterobacter sp. (75%) and P. aeruginosa (71%). These results suggest the potential use of the biosurfactant as a stabilizer of silver nanoparticles as an antimicrobial agent in different industrial sectors. Furthermore, the in vivo toxicity potential of biosurfactants was evaluated using the Tenebrio molitor model. The larvae were treated with concentrations in the range of 2.5, 5.0 and 10 g/L, and no mortality was observed within the 24 to 72 h period, demonstrating non-toxicity within the tested concentration range. These findings support the safety, efficacy and non-toxicity of biosurfactant-stabilized nanoparticles.

This paper investigates the impact of natural gas pipeline congestion on the integrated gas–electricity market in Peru, focusing on short-term market dynamics. By simulating congestion by reducing the primary natural gas pipeline’s capacity, the study reveals significant patterns in production costs and load flows within the electrical network. The research highlights the critical interdependencies between natural gas and electricity systems, emphasizing how constraints in one network can directly affect the other. The findings underscore the importance of coordinated management of these interconnected systems to optimize economic dispatch and ensure the reliability of both gas and electricity grids. The study also proposes strategic public policy interventions to mitigate the financial and physical impacts of pipeline congestion, contributing to more efficient and resilient energy market operations.

The ATLAZUL project is an Interreg effort among 18 partners from Spain and Portugal along the Atlantic Iberian coasts. One of its objectives is the development of new methods and data processing for oceanic information to produce useful products for private and public stakeholders. This study proposes a new insight on the sea surface dynamic of the ATLAZUL area based on almost two years of multiscale high resolution sea surface temperature imagery. The use of techniques such as the Karhunen–Loève transform (Empirical Orthogonal Function) and the Maximum Entropy Spectral Analysis were applied to study long- and short-term features in the sea surface temperature imagery. Mathematical Morphology and the Geometrical Theory of Measure are utilized to compute the Medial Axis Transform and the Hausdorff dimension. The results can be summarized as follows: (i) the tow upwelling areas are identified along the Galician–Portugal coast as indicated in the second and third modes of KLT/EOF analysis, and they are partially affected by wind; (ii) the tow warm water outflows from the Bay of Cádiz to the Gulf of Cádiz are identified as the second and third modes of KLT/EOF analysis, which are also influenced by wind; (iii) the skeletons of the surface signature of the upwelling and of the warmer water outflow, along with their fractal dimensions, indicate a chaotic pattern of spatial distribution and (iv) the harmonic prediction model should be combined with the wind prediction.

As catalysis grows as a multidisciplinary research area, many questions arise regarding the procedures used to determine the activity of materials in different chemical reactions. To correct inconsistencies, whether in definitions, concepts, or experimental methods, some catalysis science journals have been publishing editorials warning less-aware authors. In this work, we present some common concepts and procedures in thermo-catalysis, reviewing good practices and pointing out frequent failures that make it difficult to reliably compare the activity between materials of the same family and results from the scientific literature.

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were grafted with poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) chains, by means of the grafting from route, using the TEMED/KPS redox pair as free-radical initiators. The confirmation of grafting was revealed by 13C NMR spectra. In a test with murine macrophages (RAW 264.7 cell line), CNC-g-PNIPAM copolymers did not affect cell viability nor RAW cell oxide nitric production. Raw cells exposed to oxidative stress induced by H2O2 decreased the cell viability (~ 60%) and increased lipid peroxidation, as revealed by malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The most effective protection against the oxidative damage, with cell viability of 100%, was provided by 50 µg mL−1 of CNC-g-PNIPAM synthesized with 1:1 CNC:NIPAM mass ratio. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the levels of GSH, MDA and SOD between cells treated with the modified CNC and cells not exposed to peroxide. These results indicate that the antioxidant properties of CNC-g-PNIPAM may be useful in possible applications in health treatments.

Solid and liquid fractions of hydrothermally pretreated sugarcane bagasse (SCB) were simultaneously used as substrate of a novel continuous compartmentalized reactor. The effect of four (56, 42, 28, and 14 h) hydraulic retention time (HRT) and three (0.5, 3.0, and 9.0 g L-1) chemical oxygen demand (COD) levels were evaluated on hydrogen (H2) and organic acids production. Higher H2 production and yield (686 mL and 1.63 mol mol-1 carbohydrate, respectively) were obtained under an HRT of 28 h, probably due to the Clostridium and Thermoanaerobacterium metabolisms, which accounted for almost 60% of the microbial relative abundance. Under lower and higher HRT (14 and 56 h, respectively) lactic acid prevailed without hydrogen production. Other value-added chemicals such as citric, valeric and caproic acids were also obtained according to the HRT. From the functional point of view, enzymes from the glycoside hydrolases group (GHs) potentially performed important roles in the lignocellulosic biomass bioconversion.