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Objective: to study the effectiveness of type II pectoral nerve block (PEC II) for breast augmentation with submuscular implants by assessing opioid consumption and pain scale in the immediate postoperative period, from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) to 24 h postoperatively. Methods: A prospective, controlled, randomized, and double-blind study. Thirty-four patients were analyzed during the perioperative period and in the PACU, with one group receiving bilateral PEC II combined with general anesthesia and the control group receiving only general anesthesia. Results: There was no difference between the groups regarding demographic data, surgical and anesthetic times, or intraoperative opioid use. Opioid consumption in the control group was consistently higher at all the time intervals studied, with an average morphine consumption 38.7% greater. The largest variation in morphine consumption occurred at the fourth and sixth hours postoperatively. The greatest difference in postoperative pain was 36% higher in the control group compared to the intervention group. Conclusions: patients who underwent general anesthesia combined with PEC II had lower opioid consumption and a lower postoperative pain score without associated complications, confirming the effectiveness of the procedure.

IntroductionThe relationship between the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) guidelines and inflammatory markers in laparoscopic surgery has garnered increasing attention. These recommendations are designed to minimize surgical stress and potentially improve recovery outcomes by modifying perioperative care.ObjectiveThis scoping review aims to evaluate the impact of ERAS recommendations on inflammatory markers in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgeries, identifying current research gaps and consolidating findings from existing studies.MethodsGuided by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and adhering to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, this review analyzed studies from databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. We included both randomized controlled trials and observational studies that assessed inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cells (WBC), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in laparoscopic surgery patients managed with ERAS recommendations.ResultsOut of 64 initial studies, 7 met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 2,047 patients. Most of the studies focused on laparoscopic colorectal surgeries. Commonly assessed markers were CRP and WBC. The findings consistently showed that ERAS guideline could mitigate the inflammatory response, evidenced by reduced levels of CRP and IL-6, which correlated with fewer postoperative complications and expedited recovery.ConclusionERAS recommendations appear to beneficially modulate inflammatory responses in laparoscopic surgery, which suggests a potential for enhanced recovery outcomes. However, the evidence is currently limited by the small number of studies and inherent methodological biases. Further robust RCTs are required to strengthen the evidence base and refine these protocols for broader clinical application. Systematic Review Registrationhttps://osf.io/tj8mw/

Apresentamos a tradução do francês para o português da obra “Dissertação sobre a Natureza e a Propagação do Fogo” da marquesa Émilie du Châtelet. A Dissertação possui 140 páginas e está dividida em duas partes. Na primeira, ela discorre sobre a natureza do Fogo; na segunda parte a marquesa trata das leis de propagação do fogo. A marquesa reflete sobre as relações entre o Fogo, a luz, o Sol, a eletricidade e a constituição da matéria; apresenta argumentos da óptica, das reações químicas e de mecânica e geometria. Do ponto de vista metodológico, a marquesa traz argumentos teóricos e resultados experimentais. Além da discussão fundamentada sobre a natureza do calor, a Dissertação da marquesa adquire importância por ser um dos primeiros trabalhos publicados e reconhecidos pela Academia de Ciências de Paris como de autoria de uma mulher.

In the 1730s, there were many doubts about the nature of heat and fire. In view of this, the Academy of Sciences in Paris proposed a prize for the dissertation that brought a solution to this issue. In a context in which women's education was directed solely at the domestic sphere, Marquise Émilie du Châtelet submitted her Dissertation on the nature and propagation of Fire and overcame the obstacles that limited women's participation in Science. Academia managed to prevent her physical presence, but her name and her ideas transcended the barriers of the Enlightenment and the determinist thought of that period, and she became a recognized, published and recommended woman. In this work, we present this character and an analysis of her work on Fire. In order to do so, this research relied mostly on bibliographical information, which implied the search and analysis of primary, secondary and tertiary sources for the study of Du Châtelet’s Dissertation. For the analysis of primary and secondary sources, we relied on a poststructuralist feminist perspective for the understanding of the marquise's role in her time. In this way, in a poststructuralist feminist reading, the marquise is an example that there are no biological, structural and temporal limits that justify the ideological barriers used to essentially support the participation of women in scientific fields. The fact of being a woman was decisive for her historiographic erasure, denouncing a deliberate choice made by men during centuries of exclusion and silencing of women.

Na década de 1730 pairavam várias dúvidas sobre a natureza do calor e do fogo. Em vista disso, a Academia de Ciências de Paris propôs um prêmio para a dissertação que trouxesse uma solução. Num contexto em que a educação das mulheres era direcionada unicamente à esfera doméstica, a marquesa Émilie du Châtelet inscreve sua Dissertação sobre a natureza e a propagação do Fogo e supera os obstáculos que limitam a participação das mulheres nas Ciências. Conseguiram impedir sua presença física na Academia, porém seu nome e suas ideias transcenderam as barreiras do pensamento iluminista e determinista daquele período, tornando-se uma mulher reconhecida, publicada e recomendada. Neste trabalho apresentamos essa personagem e uma análise de seu trabalho sobre o Fogo. Para isso, a pesquisa foi majoritariamente de cunho bibliográfico, implicando a busca e análise de fontes primárias, secundárias e terciárias, nos baseamos na perspectiva feminista pós-estruturalista para a compreensão do papel da marquesa em sua época; e na análise de fontes primárias e secundárias para o estudo da Dissertação. Desta forma, numa leitura feminista pós-estruturalista a marquesa é um exemplo de que não existem limites biológicos, estruturais e temporais que justifiquem as barreiras ideológicas utilizadas para fundamentar essencialmente a participação das mulheres nas áreas científicas. O fato de ser mulher foi decisivo para seu apagamento historiográfico, denunciando uma escolha deliberadamente feita por homens durante séculos de exclusão e silenciamento das mulheres.

Abstract Despite all efforts to combat the pandemic of COVID-19, we are still living with high numbers of infected persons, an overburdened health care system, and the lack of an effective and definitive treatment. Understanding the pathophysiology of the disease is crucial for the development of new technologies and therapies for the best clinical management of patients. Since the manipulation of the whole virus requires a structure with an adequate level of biosafety, the development of alternative technologies, such as the synthesis of peptides from viral proteins, is a possible solution to circumvent this problem. In addition, the use and validation of animal models is of extreme importance to screen new drugs and to compress the organism's response to the disease. Peptides derived from recombinant S protein from SARS-CoV-2 were synthesized and validated by in silico, in vitro and in vivo methodologies. Macrophages and neutrophils were challenged with the peptides and the production of inflammatory mediators and activation profile were evaluated. These peptides were also inoculated into the swim bladder of transgenic zebrafish larvae at 6 days post fertilization (dpf) to mimic the inflammatory process triggered by the virus, which was evaluated by confocal microscopy. In addition, toxicity and oxidative stress assays were also developed. In silico and molecular dynamics assays revealed that the peptides bind to the ACE2 receptor stably and interact with receptors and adhesion molecules, such as MHC and TCR, from humans and zebrafish. Macrophages stimulated with one of the peptides showed increased production of NO, TNF-α and CXCL2. Inoculation of the peptides in zebrafish larvae triggered an inflammatory process marked by macrophage recruitment and increased mortality, as well as histopathological changes, similarly to what is observed in individuals with COVID-19. The use of peptides is a valuable alternative for the study of host immune response in the context of COVID-19. The use of zebrafish as an animal model also proved to be appropriate and effective in evaluating the inflammatory process, comparable to humans.

As feiras-livres são importantes canais de comercialização, configurando-se como um espaço de integração cultural e socioeconômica. Enquanto circuitos curtos de negociação, elas aproximam produtor e consumidor, fortalecendo vínculos e dinamizando a economia. Esta pesquisa objetivou analisar a expressão econômica da feira-livre em um bairro de Itajubá, sul de Minas Gerais, a partir do perfil e da perspectiva dos feirantes. Para tanto, foram entrevistados 56 feirantes, entre maio e dezembro de 2019, por meio de roteiros semiestruturados, divididos em duas partes fundamentais: (i) caracterização geral da feira e (ii) caracterização dos feirantes. Os resultados mostraram que a maioria dos feirantes comercializam sua própria produção e, de forma estratégica, complementam sua oferta adquirindo produtos constantemente demandados por frequentadores. A renda da feira se mostrou fundamental para a composição do faturamento dos empreendedores. Enfim, esta pesquisa pode subsidiar ações do poder público para o fortalecimento de outras feiras do município contemplado e região.

Background: Emergence Delirium (ED) is an essential condition in the immediate postoperative period. Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials have concluded that the effect of ketamine on postoperative delirium remains unclear. The present study sought to evaluate if the intraoperative use of ketamine for postoperative analgesia is associated with postoperative ED in laparoscopic surgeries. Methods: A prospective observational study was performed in the PostAnesthetic Care Unit (PACU) to evaluate patients who had undergone laparoscopic surgery under a rigid intraoperative anesthesia protocol from July 2018 to January 2019. Patients submitted to laparoscopic surgery for cholecystectomy, oophorectomy, or salpingectomy with a score ≥1 on the Richmond Assessment Sedation Scale (RASS) or ≥2 on the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale (Nu-DESC) were considered to have ED. t-test, Chi-Square test or Fisher's exact tests were used for comparison. Results: One hundred and fifteen patients were studied after laparoscopic surgery. Seventeen patients (14.8%) developed ED, and the incidence of ED in patients who received ketamine was not different from that of other patients (18.3% vs. 10.6%, p = 0.262). Patients with ED had more postoperative pain and morphine requirement at the PACU (p = 0.005 and p = 0.025, respectively). Type of surgery (general surgery, OR = 6.4, 95% CI 1.2‒35.2) and postoperative pain (OR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.2‒11.4) were risk factors for ED. Conclusion: In this study, no association was found between ED and intraoperative administration of ketamine in laparoscopic surgeries. Type of surgery and postoperative pain were risk factors for ED.

O presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar práticas pedagógicas antirracistas desenvolvidas com crianças da educação infantil de uma escola pública localizada na zona periférica da cidade de Niterói. O texto se desenha a partir do movimento reflexivo de três professoras que em busca da práxis antirracista procuram em seus registros do vivido, formas de visibilizar o trabalho coletivo como movimentos de (re)existência ao racismo. Para tal, fundadas no diálogo, assinalam a importância da Lei 10.639/03, que implementa nos currículos escolares os conteúdos de história e cultura afro-brasileira, discutindo a relevância de sua efetividade no cotidiano escolar. Apresentam reflexões sobre os desafios e possibilidades de um efetivo trabalho, especialmente na educação infantil, pautado na lei que completa 20 anos em 2023. Para tais reflexões destacam a contribuição da legislação para o currículo da educação infantil por meio das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para a Educação das Relações Étnico-Raciais e para o Ensino de História e Cultura Afro-Brasileira e Africana/2004 e as Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para educação infantil- DCNEI (2009). Por fim, destacam as vivências antirracistas com crianças pequenas, buscando indicar, a importância da escola para a educação das relações étnico-raciais por meio dos resultados conquistados na construção da identidade de modo positivo.

Sisal bole rot disease is the major phytosanitary problem of Agave plantations in Brazil. The disease is caused by a cryptic species of Aspergillus: A. welwitschiae. To date, the only way to diagnose the disease was to observe external symptoms, visible only when the plant is already compromised, or through the isolation and sequencing of the pathogen, which requires cutting the entire plant for bole tissue sampling. We developed a new primer set based on a unique gene region of A. welwitschiae, which can detect the phytopathogenic strains through PCR directly from sisal leaves. Using the new marker to study the main sisal-producing areas in Brazil, we discovered a troublesome situation. The main producing areas of this crop had a pathogen incidence of 78%–88%. The dispersion index indicates a regular spatial pattern for disease distribution, suggesting that the use of contaminated suckers to establish new fields may be the main disease-spreading mechanism. Altogether, the high incidence of the pathogen, the unavailability of clean plants, the unpredictability of disease progression, and the low investment capacity of farmers reveal the vulnerability of this sector to a potential phytosanitary crisis. By correlating the disease symptomatology with soil nutritional traits, we suggest that higher potassium availability might decrease visual symptoms, while phosphorus may have the opposite effect. Also, we observe a potential cultivar effect, suggesting that common sisal may be more susceptible than hybrid cultivars (especially H400). This new molecular tool is a significant advance for understanding the disease, enabling the implementation of a monitoring program and studies that may lead to pathogen control strategies and changes in the Brazilian production model.

Xylose is the second most abundant carbohydrate in nature, mostly present in lignocellulosic material, and representing an appealing feedstock for molecule manufacturing through biotechnological routes. However, Saccharomyces cerevisiae—a microbial cell widely used industrially for ethanol production—is unable to assimilate this sugar. Hence, in a world with raising environmental awareness, the efficient fermentation of pentoses is a crucial bottleneck to producing biofuels from renewable biomass resources. In this context, advances in the genetic mapping of S. cerevisiae have contributed to noteworthy progress in the understanding of xylose metabolism in yeast, as well as the identification of gene targets that enable the development of tailored strains for cellulosic ethanol production. Accordingly, this review focuses on the main strategies employed to understand the network of genes that are directly or indirectly related to this phenotype, and their respective contributions to xylose consumption in S. cerevisiae, especially for ethanol production. Altogether, the information in this work summarizes the most recent and relevant results from scientific investigations that endowed S. cerevisiae with an outstanding capability for commercial ethanol production from xylose.

Abstract This study investigated injuries sustained by Pimelodus maculatus caused by transient operating conditions in a Brazilian hydroelectric power plant. Fish (n = 43) that inhabited the tailrace and appeared on the water surface after changes in the operating conditions were evaluated (IF). Additionally, fish (n = 10) captured using longline in the vicinity of the tailrace were used for comparisons (NF). Blood samples were evaluated for cortisol, glucose, and lactate concentrations. Tissue samples (gill, liver, brain, and muscle) were analyzed for oxidative stress biomarkers (TBARS, protein carbonyl content, and catalase activity) and histology (gill, liver, and spleen). The most prominent findings in IF were barotraumas with intra-abdominal hemorrhage and swim bladder rupture. Cortisol and glucose concentrations were lower for IF when compared to NF. IF also suffered from oxidative stress, as indicated by increased TBARS in the liver and brain, as well as increased protein carbonyl content in the gills and liver. The main histological alterations induced by the adverse conditions were circulatory disorders, such as telangiectasia and gill aneurysm, hepatic congested veins, and hemorrhage in the liver and spleen. The abrupt drop of pressure resulting from changes in the operating conditions of the turbines caused barotraumas and oxidative stress, which were the leading causes of fish mortality

Agaves have been a valuable resource in dryland areas for centuries, providing fibers (sisal), food, and beverages. However, the advent of synthetic fibers has led to a decrease in research on Agave, resulting in the cessation of breeding programs in Brazil. With the rise of climate change, there is renewed interest in Agave for its potential as a biofuel feedstock in semiarid regions. Since 2016, we have been collecting Agave accessions throughout the country and retrieving what is left of Brazil’s original breeding program to establish a new germplasm bank. Here, we evaluated 21 of those accessions growing in the field. We used molecular markers and morphophysiological traits to characterize the plants. Based on the Mayahuelin molecular marker, we were able to reconstruct a phylogeny for the Brazilian accessions. The morphophysiological traits explained 34.6% of the phenotypic variation in the dataset, with physiological traits such as leaf water content, effective quantum efficiency of photosystem II (ΦPSII), and specific leaf mass (SLM) as the most significant traits. Specifically, we evaluated nine Agave species and found that the physiological traits, rather than the morphological ones, were the most significant. Leaf water content was negatively correlated with specific leaf mass, which could be used as a marker for selecting cultivars with higher biomass accumulation. Interestingly, ΦPSII and chlorophyll content were negatively correlated, suggesting photochemical adaptations throughout the rosette. Molecular and phenotypic data suggest that A. amaniensis, which is frequently considered a synonym of A. sisalana, is effectively another species. Overall, this study provides valuable information on the physiological traits of Brazilian Agave accessions and is a starting point for selecting more productive and climate-resilient cultivars for biorenewables production.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Down syndrome (DS) is a non-rare genetic condition that affects approximately 1 in every 800 live births worldwide. Further, it is associated with comorbidities, anatomical alterations of the respiratory tract, and immunological dysfunctions that make individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections. OBJECTIVE: To systematize the current scientific knowledge about the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among individuals with DS. DESIGN AND SETTING: This integrative review was conducted at the Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: This review was conducted in the following databases: the Virtual Health Library (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, BVS), PubMed, and Web of Science, using MeSH descriptors. The search included English or Portuguese studies published between January 1, 2020, and October 14, 2022. RESULTS: A total of 55 articles from 24 countries were selected, comprising 21 case-control or cohort studies, 23 case reports or series, and 11 narrative reviews or opinion studies. The articles were grouped into five categories: previous comorbidities, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) clinical features and evolution, cytokine storm and interleukins, living in institutions as a risk factor, and behavioral actions as a protective factor against SARS-CoV-2 infection. CONCLUSION: Individuals with DS are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection due to variables such as previous comorbidities, immunological factors, and their habitable environments. These aspects confer a higher risk of infection and an unfavorable clinical course. The precise pathways involved in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 in individuals with DS are not clear, thus requiring further studies. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: The Open Science Framework registered the research protocol (https://osf.io/jyb97/).

Abstract The Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) pilot project set out to explore the alternative mobility imaginaries of participants. These imaginaries challenged the automated vision of the future presented by vehicle and technology companies. This paper takes a post-normal science and digital anthropology approach to the question of automated technology and the role that citizens have in shaping mobility future(s). Through narrative analysis, interviews with stakeholders, and Futures Making Ateliers, this citizen engagement journey deconstructs the technological promises of CAVs, as well as their plausibility and desirability from the point of view of the participants of the participatory journey. Our findings suggest that the technology is solving a different problem than the mobility problem as articulated in policy documents. By investigating the matters of concern of participants, the problem of mobility was redefined in their own terms, and alternative futures were explored. We use the concept of MacGuffin as means to explore the wider relevance of CAVs in mobility futures.

Sickle cell disease is the most common hemoglobinopathy among humans. As the condition promotes susceptibility to infections, chronic inflammation, and hypercoagulability disorders, several international agencies have included individuals with this disease in the COVID-19 risk group for severe outcomes. However, available information about the subject is not properly systematized yet. This review aimed to understand and summarize the scientific knowledge about the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with sickle cell disease. Searches were performed in the Medline, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library databases based on descriptors chosen according to the Medical Subject Headings. We analyzed studies published between 2020 and October 2022, developed with qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methodology, and written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. The search resulted in 90 articles organized into six categories. There is disagreement in the literature about how different aspects related to sickle cell disease, such as chronic inflammation status, hypercoagulability, hemolytic anemia, use of hydroxyurea, and access to medical care interference with the clinical course of COVID-19. These topics deserve further investigation. It is evident, however, that the infection may manifest in an atypical way and act as a trigger for the development of sickle cell-specific complications, such as acute chest syndrome and vaso-occlusive crises, conditions that are associated with great morbidity and mortality. Therefore, healthcare professionals must be aware of the different forms of presentation of COVID-19 among these individuals. Specific guidelines and therapeutic protocols, as well as public policies for sickle cell individuals, must be considered.Systematic review registrationThis review (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/NH4AS) and the review protocol (https://osf.io/3y649/) are registered in the Open Science Framework platform.

Abstract Introduction Despite the results of epidemiological and psychometric studies reporting comparable levels of tobacco dependence among males and females, some clinical studies have detected disparities. Some smoking cessation studies based on clinical setting programs reported poorer outcomes among women than men. Methods This retrospective cohort study aimed to compare treatment success and retention between men and women on a smoking cessation program (n = 1,014) delivered at a CAPS-AD unit in Brazil. The psychological intervention lasted 6 weeks for each group of 15 patients. Each patient had to participate in weekly group cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) sessions and individual medical appointments during this period. These appointments were focused on the possibility of prescribing pharmacological treatment (i.e., nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, or nortriptyline) as adjuvants to group therapy. Results The women had lower smoking severity at baseline, more clinical symptoms, and lower prevalence of alcohol and drug use disorders and were older than the men. Females had significantly higher levels of success (36.6% vs. 29.7%) and retention (51.6% vs. 41.4%) than males. Sensitivity analysis showed that female gender was significantly associated with both retention and success, among those without drug use disorders only. Conclusion Depending on the smoking cessation setting (i.e., low and middle-income countries and mental health and addiction care units), females can achieve similar and even higher quit rates than males. Previous drug use disorder was an important confounding variable in the gender outcomes analyses. Future studies should try to replicate these positive smoking cessation effects of CBT-based group therapy plus pharmacotherapy in women.

Agave plants are well-known for their drought resilience and commercial applications. Among them, Agave sisalana (sisal) is the species most used to produce hard fibers, and it is of great importance for semiarid regions. Agaves also show potential as bioenergy feedstocks, as they can accumulate large amounts of biomass and fermentable sugar. This study aimed to reconstruct the A. sisalana interactome, and identify key genes and modules involved in multiple plant tissues (root, stem, and leaf) through RNA-Seq analysis. We integrated A. sisalana transcriptome sequences and gene expression generated from stem, leaf, and root tissues to build global and conditional co-expression networks across the entire transcriptome. By combining the co-expression network, module classification, and function enrichment tools, we identified 20 functional modules related to at least one A. sisalana tissue, covering functions such as photosynthesis, leaf formation, auxin-activated signaling pathway, floral organ abscission, response to farnesol, brassinosteroid mediated signaling pathway, and light-harvesting. The final interactome of A. sisalana contains 2,582 nodes and 15,083 edges. In the reconstructed interactome, we identified submodules related to plant processes to validate the reconstruction. In addition, we identified 6 hub genes that were searched for in the co-expression modules. The intersection of hub genes identified by both the protein-protein interaction networks (PPI networks) and co-expression analyses using gene significance and module membership revealed six potential candidate genes for key genes. In conclusion, we identified six potential key genes for specific studies in Agave transcriptome atlas studies, biological processes related to plant survival in unfavorable environments and provide strategies for breeding programs.

Abstract Background The need to mitigate and substitute the use of fossil fuels as the main energy matrix has led to the study and development of biofuels as an alternative. Second-generation (2G) ethanol arises as one biofuel with great potential, due to not only maintaining food security, but also as a product from economically interesting crops such as energy-cane. One of the main challenges of 2G ethanol is the inefficient uptake of pentose sugars by industrial yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the main organism used for ethanol production. Understanding the main drivers for xylose assimilation and identify novel and efficient transporters is a key step to make the 2G process economically viable. Results By implementing a strategy of searching for present motifs that may be responsible for xylose transport and past adaptations of sugar transporters in xylose fermenting species, we obtained a classifying model which was successfully used to select four different candidate transporters for evaluation in the S. cerevisiae hxt-null strain, EBY.VW4000, harbouring the xylose consumption pathway. Yeast cells expressing the transporters SpX, SpH and SpG showed a superior uptake performance in xylose compared to traditional literature control Gxf1. Conclusions Modelling xylose transport with the small data available for yeast and bacteria proved a challenge that was overcome through different statistical strategies. Through this strategy, we present four novel xylose transporters which expands the repertoire of candidates targeting yeast genetic engineering for industrial fermentation. The repeated use of the model for characterizing new transporters will be useful both into finding the best candidates for industrial utilization and to increase the model’s predictive capabilities. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Sugarcane hemicellulosic material is a compelling source of usually neglected xylose that could figure as feedstock to produce chemical building blocks of high economic value, such as xylitol. In this context, Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains typically used in the Brazilian bioethanol industry are a robust chassis for genetic engineering, given their robustness towards harsh operational conditions and outstanding fermentation performance. Nevertheless, there are no reports on the use of these strains for xylitol production using sugarcane hydrolysate. Results Potential single-guided RNA off-targets were analyzed in two preeminent industrial strains (PE-2 and SA-1), providing a database of 5′-NGG 20 nucleotide sequences and guidelines for the fast and cost-effective CRISPR editing of such strains. After genomic integration of a NADPH-preferring xylose reductase (XR), FMYX (SA-1 hoΔ::xyl1) and CENPKX (CEN.PK-122 hoΔ::xyl1) were tested in varying cultivation conditions for xylitol productivity to infer influence of the genetic background. Near-theoretical yields were achieved for all strains; however, the industrial consistently outperformed the laboratory strain. Batch fermentation of raw sugarcane straw hydrolysate with remaining solid particles represented a challenge for xylose metabolization, and 3.65 ± 0.16 g/L xylitol titer was achieved by FMYX. Finally, quantification of NADPH — cofactor implied in XR activity — revealed that FMYX has 33% more available cofactors than CENPKX. Conclusions Although widely used in several S. cerevisiae strains, this is the first report of CRISPR-Cas9 editing major yeast of the Brazilian bioethanol industry. Fermentative assays of xylose consumption revealed that NADPH availability is closely related to mutant strains’ performance. We also pioneer the use of sugarcane straw as a substrate for xylitol production. Finally, we demonstrate how industrial background SA-1 is a compelling chassis for the second-generation industry, given its inhibitor tolerance and better redox environment that may favor production of reduced sugars.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is frequently found in cases of obesity and related metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus. The composition of the microbiota in diabetics is similar to that of obese people, thereby causing increased energy uptake efficiency in the large intestine of obese people, maintenance of a systemic inflammatory state, and increased insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery seems to entail an improvement in gut dysbiosis, leading to an increased diversity of the gut microbiota. AIMS: This study aimed to present a literature review on obesity-associated gut dysbiosis and its status post-bariatric surgery. METHODS: A systematic review of primary studies was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, BIREME, LILACS, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases using DeCS (Health Science Descriptors) with the terms “obesity,” “intestinal dysbiosis,” “bariatric surgery,” and “microbiota.” RESULTS: We analyzed 28 articles that had clinical studies or literature reviews as their main characteristics, of which 82% (n=23) corresponded to retrospective studies. The sample size of the studies ranged from 9 to 257 participants and/or fecal samples. The epidemiological profile showed a higher prevalence of obesity in females, ranging from 24.4 to 35.1%, with a mean age of around 25–40 years. There was a variation regarding the type of bariatric surgery, migrating between the Roux-en-Y bypass, adjustable gastric banding, and vertical gastrectomy. Of the 28 studies, 6 of them evaluated the gut microbiota of obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery and their relationship with type 2 diabetes mellitus/glucose metabolism/insulin resistance. CONCLUSIONS: The intestinal microbiota is an important influencer in the regulation of the digestive tract, and obese individuals with comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and metabolic syndrome) present important alterations, with an unbalance normal state, generating dysbiosis and the proliferation of bacterial species that favor the appearance of new diseases. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery present an improvement in the intestinal microbiota imbalance as well as reversibility of their comorbidities, increasing their life expectancy.

Neste artigo, propomos enunciar aproximações entre as práticas presentes nas feiras-livres com elementos centrais da filosofia ameríndia do Bem Viver. Apesar da força do mercado varejista na venda de produtos alimentícios, a feira resiste com sua forma e conteúdo peculiares, sendo um importante espaço de comercialização da produção da agricultura familiar e tradicional e de acesso a alimentos saudáveis. As relações e sociabilidades que se desenrolam nesse espaço fazem da feira mais que mero mercado, sendo um lugar de ritmo, encontros, passeios, aonde se vai para comprar, para rever amigos, família, histórias de vida. Diante disso, nosso objetivo neste ensaio teórico é discutir a feira-livre como um espaço de resistência e uma experiência de Bem Viver, muito mais complexa do que a lógica economicista é capaz de compreender. Convivialidade, coletividade, pessoalidade, informalidade, confiança, vínculo territorial, saberes seculares, valorização cultural, outros modos de produção e consumo são alguns dos muitos elementos materiais e simbólicos que representam a feira-livre como um espaço plural que se expressa em uma ética e valores não exclusivamente mercadológicos. A feira é uma experiência de resistência que se materializa no cotidiano da classe trabalhadora, sejam estes produtores, feirantes ou consumidores. Defendê-la, colocando em evidência sua expressão social, que carrega símbolos contrários à modernidade ocidental, é promover a construção de caminhos para “adiar o fim do mundo” (KRENAK, 2019).

Resumo Observa-se no Brasil uma crescente precarização dos serviços públicos e do trabalho médico. Na Paraíba, há uma forma peculiar de contratação, denominada “codificação”. Trata-se de um vínculo inconstitucional, estabelecido sem assinatura de contrato, por meio do qual o médico recebe por produção e sem garantia de direitos. O objetivo do presente artigo é discutir a precarização do trabalho médico no estado da Paraíba por meio da codificação e suas implicações bioéticas. O texto traz resultados de análise de dados disponíveis no Portal da Transparência do Tribunal de Contas do Estado. Os dados revelam que, no momento da pesquisa, 1.474 médicos trabalhavam na rede estadual de saúde, sendo 716 (48,6%) concursados e 758 (51,4%) codificados. Dentre os codificados, 55,8% são homens (p=0,001), 67,1% trabalham na Zona da Mata Paraibana (p=0,021), e mais de um terço presta serviços para o estado como clínicos. Conclui-se que a codificação é uma forma ilegal de contratação, e que é preciso resgatar o valor social do médico e a dignidade humana, para que a estabilidade desses trabalhadores e a formação de vínculo com os usuários não sejam prejudicadas.

ABSTRACT Sleep is essential for the proper functioning of all individuals. Sleep-disordered breathing can occur at any age and is a common reason for medical visits. The objective of this consensus is to update knowledge about the main causes of sleep-disordered breathing in adult and pediatric populations, with an emphasis on obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is an extremely prevalent but often underdiagnosed disease. It is often accompanied by comorbidities, notably cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurocognitive disorders, which have a significant impact on quality of life and mortality rates. Therefore, to create this consensus, the Sleep-Disordered Breathing Department of the Brazilian Thoracic Association brought together 14 experts with recognized, proven experience in sleep-disordered breathing.

A grande quantidade de áreas degradadas e o potencial produtivo das reservas legais no Brasil tornam a restauração uma demanda ambiental e oportunidade comercial. Modelamos o crescimento do diâmetro em função da idade de oito espécies de árvores em plantações de recomposição na Amazônia brasileira. A partir de 14 anos de dados de inventário florestal anual, testamos variações da função logística: logística simples, logística com covariante (área da planta na época do plantio), logística com efeito aleatório, logística com efeito aleatório e covariante. As espécies Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum, Tectona grandis e Simarouba amara apresentaram as maiores taxas de crescimento, enquanto Cordia alliodora, Cedrela odorata e três espécies do gênero Handroanthus apresentaram crescimento mais lento. Os ganhos com o uso da covariante na modelagem foram pequenos para modelos de efeitos fixos e mistos. Os ganhos com a inclusão do efeito aleatório foram substanciais. Os modelos de efeitos mistos tiveram o melhor desempenho na modelagem do crescimento das espécies. Nossos resultados fornecem subsídios para uma visão crítica sobre os critérios, possibilidades de recomposição e práticas de manejo de áreas degradadas em reservas legais na Amazônia. Uma análise econômica é necessária para garantir a viabilidade da exploração sustentável dessas áreas.

Agave plants present drought resistance mechanisms, commercial applications, and potential for bioenergy production. Currently, Agave species are used to produce alcoholic beverages and sisal fibers in semi-arid regions, mainly in Mexico and Brazil. Because of their high productivities, low lignin content, and high shoot-to-root ratio, agaves show potential as biomass feedstock to bioenergy production in marginal areas. Plants host many microorganisms and understanding their metabolism can inform biotechnological purposes. Here, we identify and characterize fungal transcripts found in three fiber-producing agave cultivars (Agave fourcroydes, A. sisalana, and hybrid 11648). We used leaf, stem, and root samples collected from the agave germplasm bank located in the state of Paraiba, in the Brazilian semiarid region, which has faced irregular precipitation periods. We used data from a de novo assembled transcriptome assembly (all tissues together). Regardless of the cultivar, around 10% of the transcripts mapped to fungi. Surprisingly, most root-specific transcripts were fungal (58%); of these around 64% were identified as Ascomycota and 28% as Basidiomycota in the three communities. Transcripts that code for heat shock proteins (HSPs) and enzymes involved in transport across the membrane in Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, abounded in libraries generated from the three cultivars. Indeed, among the most expressed transcripts, many were annotated as HSPs, which appear involved in abiotic stress resistance. Most HSPs expressed by Ascomycota are small HSPs, highly related to dealing with temperature stresses. Also, some KEGG pathways suggest interaction with the roots, related to transport to outside the cell, such as exosome (present in the three Ascomycota communities) and membrane trafficking, which were further investigated. We also found chitinases among secreted CAZymes, that can be related to pathogen control. We anticipate that our results can provide a starting point to the study of the potential uses of agaves’ fungi as biotechnological tools.