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The current era witnesses a remarkable advancement in biomass utilization, guided by the principles of green chemistry and biorefinery and the comprehensive exploitation of plant-based raw materials. Predominantly, large-scale production methods have been pursued, akin to approaches in the oil industry, enabling the incorporation of novel products into energy and petrochemical markets. However, the viability of such systems on a small and medium scale is hindered by logistical challenges and the constraints of economies of scale. For small agricultural producers and food processing companies, the complete utilization of biomass transcends environmental responsibility, evolving into a strategy for survival through the diversification of by-products with enhanced value. The state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil presents a range of population dynamics, geographical features, climate conditions, and agricultural production patterns that closely resemble those found in various tropical countries and agricultural regions worldwide. This region, sustaining a green belt supporting 17 million people, provides an apt case study for investigating chemical compounds with potential value among agro-industrial residues, which can motivate the creation of a lucrative biotechnological industry. Examples include naringenin and hesperidin from oranges and lemons, epi-gallo-catechin gallate from bananas, caffeic acids from coffee, and the bromelain enzyme from pineapples. This study addresses the challenges associated with developing biotechnological alternatives within the agroindustry, considering economic, technological, logistical, and market-related aspects. The insights from examining the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro will contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable biomass utilization and the creation of value-added by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article addresses the antioxidant properties of different natural products, including ascorbic acid, gallic acid, oxalic acid, L-glutathione (GSH), bacteriorhodopsin, green tea polyphenols, glucose, hydroxycinnamic acid, ethanoic acid, betanin, and L-glutathione, in the reduction of graphene oxide (rGO). rGO can cause damage to cells, including oxidative stress and inflammation, limiting its application in different sectors that use graphene, such as technologies used in medicine and dentistry. The natural substances reviewed have properties that help reduce this damage, neutralizing free radicals and maintaining cellular integrity. This survey demonstrates that the combination of these antioxidant compounds can be an effective strategy to minimize the harmful effects of rGO and promote cellular health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical analysis of photovoltaics and building integrated photovoltaics is a key step for their optimal design and certification, and requires careful consideration, alongside solar power, durability and functionality issues. The solar cells are encapsulated in thin interlayers that are usually composed of a viscoelastic Ethylene–Vinyl Acetate compound, and protected by thin glass and/or plastic layers. This paper investigates the out-of-plane bending response of a full-scale commercial PV module and focuses attention on the shear bonding efficiency of the thin encapsulant for quasi-static and dynamic mechanical considerations. The parametric analytical analysis, carried out in this study for a laminated glass plate, highlights the possible consequences of the viscoelastic shear coupling on the cross-section load-bearing demand in the covers. As a direct effect of severe operational conditions (i.e., ageing, non-uniform/cyclic thermal gradients, humidity, extreme mechanical/thermal loads, etc.) the shear rigidity and adhesion of these films can suffer from repeated/progressive modification and even degradation, and thus induce major stress and deflection effects in the out-of-plane mechanical response of the PV module components. The minimum shear bond efficiency required to prevent mechanical issues is calculated for various configurations of technical interest. Accordingly, it is shown how the quasi-static and dynamic mechanical performance of the system modifies as a function of a more rigid or weak shear coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Part I of this study, it was shown that all the three known types of monohedral hexagonal tessellations of the plane, those composed of equal irregular hexagons, have just a single deformation mode when tiles are considered as rigid bodies hinged to each other along the edges. A gallery of tessellated plates was simulated numerically to demonstrate the range of achievable deformed shapes. In Part II, the displacement field was first derived and a continuous interpolant for each type of tessellated plate. It turns out that all corresponding metasurfaces are described by quadrics. Afterwards, a parametric analysis was carried out to determine the effect of varying angles and edge lengths on the curvature, and the values of the geometric Poisson ratio of the plates. Finally, a method of fabrication is proposed based on the additive manufacturing of stiff tiles of negligible deformability and flexible connectors. Using this modular technique, it is possible to join together different monohedral tessellated plates able to deform into piece-wise quadrics. The nodal positions in the deformed configuration of the realized plates are measured after enforcing one principal curvature to assume a chosen value. The estimate of the other principal curvature confirms the analytical predictions. The presented tessellated plates permit to realize doubly curved shape-morphing metasurfaces with assorted shapes, which also can feature a certain surface roughness, and they can be employed in all applications demanding high surface accuracy and few actuators or just one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control of the shape of complex metasurfaces is a challenging task often addressed in the literature. This work presents a class of tessellated plates able to deform into surfaces of preprogrammed shape upon activation by any flexural load and that can be controlled by a single actuator. Quadric metasurfaces are obtained from infinitesimal origami maps of monohedral hexagonal tessellations of the plane, that is pavings in which all tiles are congruent to each other. Monohedral tessellated portions can be joined together to obtain more complex shapes, which can be locally synclastic or anticlastic and can have a certain roughness. We broaden previous work by providing a complete characterization of all the three known types of monohedral tessellations composed by irregular hexagons. The proposed two-dimensional structures may have applications in prosthetics, tissue engineering, wearable devices, energy harvesting devices, tunable focus mirrors and adaptive facades. The study is divided in two parts. In Part I, after introducing the discrete kinematics of tessellated plates, it is proved analytically that essentially each type of monohedral hexagonal tessellation possesses only one deformation mode. Afterwards, several numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the variety of achievable surface shapes. In Part II, first the metasurfaces corresponding to assigned tile geometries are given a continuum description, which establishes that the continuous interpolant is always a quadric. Then, experimental results on fabrication, assembly and surface accuracy are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollination is a crucial reproductive process that underpins crop yield and quality as well as sustains other ecosystem services essential for our planet's life. Insects are the largest group of pollinators, particularly bees, handling the pollination of 71 of the 100 crops that contribute to 90% of the world's food supply. Nevertheless, both biotic and abiotic factors exert considerable influence on bee behaviour, which in turn affects the pollination process. Moreover, the alarming decline in bee populations and other essential insect pollinators presents a major challenge to natural pollination. This work focuses on Actinidia, a dioecious plant, i.e., with female and male flowers on separate plants, which introduces entropy into the pollination phase. In this plant, the number of pollinated seeds directly influences the size of Actinidia fruits (kiwi), so the success of the pollination phase is fundamental. However, natural pollination in Actinidia is mainly entomophilic, i.e., by insects. Hence, the exploration of alternative approaches becomes essential. To address this need, there has been a growing interest in robotic solutions for pollination, which include several tools to perform pollination. This research investigates the existing technologies for conducting artificial pollination procedures. It involves a comprehensive examination of various methods outlined in the literature, thoroughly analysing their strengths and weaknesses. The ultimate objective is to provide valuable insights and guidance to enhance the efficacy of artificial pollination processes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tensegrity metamaterials are a type of artificial materials that can exploit the tunable nonlinear mechanical behavior of the constituent tensegrity units. Here, we present reduced-order analytical models describing the prestrain-induced bistable effect of two particular tensegrity units. Closed-form expressions of the critical prestrain at which a unit transitions into a bistable regime are derived. Such expressions depend only on the geometry of the units. The predictions of the reduced-order model are verified by numerical simulations and by the realization of physical models. The present results can be generalized to analogous units with polygonal base, and the proposed tensegrity units can be assembled together to form one-dimensional metamaterials with tailorable nonlinear features such as multistability and solitary wave propagation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The presence of another rheumatological condition in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) is not uncommon. To report a case of a patient with SSc-RA overlap and perform a review of the cases reported in the literature. Material and methods: A chart review of the present case report was performed. After, we performed a literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases. Results: We included 26 articles. Sixty-three patients were reviewed, 51 were female with a mean age of 45.03 years at the time of the first diagnosis. Sixty-three patients were diagnosed with limited cutaneous SSc. Regarding organ involvement, the most frequently reported were cutaneous, vascular, pulmonary and gastrointestinal involvement. Erosions were presenting 65.08% of patients. A panoply of treatments was used. Conclusions: The authors concluded that screening for an associated disease should be encouraged since the overlap with SSc may affect prognosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work designs, models, and experimentally validates novel magnetic levitation systems for the vibration isolation of lightweight structures and artworks. 2D and 3D passive vibration isolators are studied, making use of easy‐to‐assemble 3D‐printed components and neodymium magnets. An optimized design of the number of magnets and the 3D printing process of the stabilizing parts allows us to finely tune the resonant frequencies and the vibration isolation performances. Ratios between the maximum horizontal and vertical accelerations, exhibited by the floating bodies, and the maximum horizontal acceleration applied to the base of the system are provided, for varying excitation frequencies. With these outputs, we show that it is possible to optimize the main design parameters of the isolation system, by targeting the desired frequency window, for a given payload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host-parasite associations are driven by complex ecological interactions that can be influenced by the parasite, the host, and the climatic conditions. Knowledge about the structures of hostparasite interaction networks is still incipient and studies mainly focused on the infracommunity levels. So, we conducted a systematic review using full-text articles to understand the relation between Brazilian small mammals and protozoan infections besides identify their functional roles in the network. We identified 4527 potentially relevant references and finally included 41 papers and considered 42 species of small mammals and 13 species of the protozoan. We found nonspecificity of this relationship, with a modular network that is nestedness with low specialization values with most of the parasite and hosts occupying ultraperipheral or peripheral roles. Didelphids were homogeneously distributed among all modules, reinforcing the ancient relationship between this clade and the protozoan clade to spread infections. We also identify an isolated relation between the rodent O. cleberi and T. dionisii, a common bat protozoan highlighting that the environment and features of the parasites and hosts make these relationships more complex, and understanding these relationships can help to understand the dynamics of many infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitism is a dynamic ecological phenomenon that is constantly influenced by the environment and intrinsic factors of the host. We aimed to evaluate the influence of vegetation, environmental temperature, reproductive conditions, sex, and body condition (BC) on the detection of Trypanosoma spp. in the blood of Thrichomys fosteri in the Pantanal region, an enzootic area for trypanosomiasis. Whole blood was collected from the tip of the tail, and nPCR was performed for Trypanosoma spp. detection from the DNA extracted from the resultant blood clot. Statistical analyses were performed using generalized linear models. Our results showed that there is a greater probability of detection of Trypanosoma spp. in the bloodstream of animals with the highest BC values in periods with mild temperatures. Since T.fosteri is an abundant and common prey for carnivores, even in periods with low temperatures and consequent decrease in the reproduction and activities of the blood-sucking arthropod vectors, the maintenance of Trypanosoma spp. in the studied area would be guaranteed via predation (trophic network) of T.fosteri individuals with good BC and patent parasitemia. Furthermore, T.fosteri, which displays Trypanosoma spp. in the bloodstream, would be reproducing adequately because we found no influence between the reproductive condition and the detection of Trypanosoma spp. in T. fosteri. The caviomorph rodent T.fostei is an important species for the maintenance of Trypanosoma spp. in the Pantanal biome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the beginning of 2020, it looked like serious climate action was finally going to take place after decades of procrastination, but we are now inevitably leaving the transformation path. Abruptly (and remarkably), the coronavirus outbreak silenced ongoing efforts to protect climate, while also partly bringing carbon emissions to a halt. A global tragedy is still unfolding with vast social impacts and we are reaching a roundabout with several distinct exits. While embracing the uncertainty of current times, we try to envision likely transition pathways using the multi-level perspective. Climate activists, social innovators, dreamers, and networkers are expected to gain momentum and play critical roles in a sequence of co-evolutionary waves leading to a just, conscious, and regenerative recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, parasitic infections must be addressed as complex systems involving parasite-host relationships on a temporal and spatial scale. Since the parasites cover a great biological diversity, we can expect that wildlife are exposed simultaneously to different parasites. In this sense, the objective of this work was to determine the relationships between free-living mammals and their associated hemoparasites in the Brazilian Pantanal. We used the data published during 2017 and 2018 by de Sousa et al. regarding the detection of vector-borne pathogens (VBP), namely Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Cytauxzoon, Ehrlichia, Hepatozoon, Mycoplasma, and Theileria, in nine species of free-living mammals belonging to orders Carnivora, Rodentia, and Didelphimorphia. We assume as infected an individual positive on any of parasitological, molecular, and/or serological tests. We observed a strong association between the wild felid Leopardus pardalis with Cytauxzoon, the wild canid Cerdocyon thous with Hepatozoon, the small rodent Thrichomys fosteri with Bartonella, and the procyonid Nasua nasua with Mycoplasma and Theileria. Therefore, N. nasua, C. thous, T. fosteri, and the small rodent Oecomys mamorae can be considered key species for the maintenance of selected VBP in the Pantanal region, because they showed a high number of single and coinfections. Together, our results highlighted the importance of coinfection as a common phenomenon in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization results in loss of natural habitats and, consequently, reduction of richness and abundance of specialist to the detriment of generalist species. We hypothesized that a greater richness of trypanosomatid in Didelphis albiventris would be found in fragments of urban forests in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, that presented a larger richness of small mammals. We used parasitological, molecular, and serological methods to detect Trypanosoma spp. infection in D. albiventris (n = 43) from forest fragments. PCR was performed with primers specific for 18S rDNA, 24Sα rDNA, mini-chromosome satellites, and mini-exon genes. IFAT was used to detect anti–Trypanosoma cruzi IgG. All hemoculture was negative. We detected trypanosomatid DNA in blood of 35% of opossum. Two opossums were seropositive for T. cruzi. The trypanosomatid species number infecting D. albiventris was higher in the areas with greater abundance, rather than richness of small mammals. We found D. albiventris parasitized by T. cruzi in single and co-infections with Leishmania spp., recently described molecular operational taxonomic unit (MOTU) named DID, and Trypanosoma lainsoni. We concluded that (i) trypanosome richness may be determined by small mammal abundance, (ii) D. albiventris confirmed to be bio-accumulators of trypanosomatids, and (iii) T. lainsoni demonstrated a higher host range than described up to the present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper addresses the seismic vulnerability assessment of a multi-span footbridge, prone to span unseating due to shorter seat lengths. The structure is representative of a series of pedestrian crossings located in the Southern part of Portugal, a region with a relevant seismicity. A probabilistic approach allows considering the variability of the seismic action and uncertainties in the definition of the material properties and/or structural behavior. Based on incremental dynamic analyses and corresponding fragility curves, it is shown that, for code compliance design acceleration, there is a significant probability that the structure will only suffer minor damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Glass facades and enclosures are highly attractive structures with increasing popularity between architects and engineers. These structures show very specific design requirements so as to guarantee an efficient interaction with the other building components. This is especially true in the case of "adaptive" glass systems, with continuously changing configurations according to a given design criteria. The main goal of this explorative study is the design of an adaptive facade module with antagonistic actuation. The geometry of the glazing system is controlled by pairs of superelastic cables actuated against each other in a reversible way. Superelasticity is here exploited so as to improve the structural behavior of the facade system subjected to wind loads. The efficiency of the proposed design concept is demonstrated via finite‐element numerical analyses and also from test data obtained from an experimental prototype. It is shown that the proposed control approach can yield substantial structural enhancements and benefits for the adaptive facade module, which are substantiated by important reductions of maximum deformations and stresses in the cladding elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Steep slope vineyards are a complex scenario for the development of ground robots. Planning a safe robot trajectory is one of the biggest challenges in this scenario, characterized by irregular surfaces and strong slopes (more than 35°). Moving the robot through a pile of stones, spots with high slope or/and with wrong robot yaw may result in an abrupt fall of the robot, damaging the equipment and centenary vines, and sometimes imposing injuries to humans. This paper presents a novel approach for path planning aware of center of mass of the robot for application in sloppy terrains. Agricultural robotic path planning (AgRobPP) is a framework that considers the A* algorithm by expanding inner functions to deal with three main inputs: multi-layer occupation grid map, altitude map and robot's center of mass. This multi-layer grid map is updated by obstacles taking into account the terrain slope and maximum robot posture. AgRobPP is also extended with algorithms for local trajectory replanning during the execution of a trajectory that is blocked by the presence of an obstacle, always assuring the safety of the re-planned path. AgRobPP has a novel PointCloud translator algorithm called PointCloud to grid map and digital elevation model (PC2GD), which extracts the occupation grid map and digital elevation model from a PointCloud. This can be used in AgRobPP core algorithms and farm management intelligent systems as well. AgRobPP algorithms demonstrate a great performance with the real data acquired from AgRob V16, a robotic platform developed for autonomous navigation in steep slope vineyards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing urbanization and consequent habitat fragmentation and loss call for studies of the influence of urbanization on native fauna. South American Coati (Procyonidae: Nasua nasua) live in groups and are common in urban areas of South America. Here, we aimed to understand how coatis occupy and select space, and whether they change their circadian activity in an urban environment. We estimated home range sizes, verified any overlap, and evaluated the effects of sex and weight on home range size. We also described coati activity patterns associated with habitat selection. Animals established their home ranges only within the study area, with few exploratory exits to surrounding areas. Furthermore, our home range estimates of 0.66 km2 are lower than previously found in natural habitats. We did not observe an effect of sex or weight on home range size. Coatis predominantly selected forested areas and explored houses only early in the morning. We suggest that this demonstrates the need for forested areas for survival of the species. Regarding activity patterns, coatis were active only during the day, as described for the species in its natural environment. Human barriers—in addition to human refuse that serves as food—could reduce the home range sizes. Our data demonstrate differences in home range size, but not circadian activity or habitat selection when compared to coatis in their natural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weathering and operational conditions, as known, have significant impact on typical constituent materials which are used for many construction applications. Among others, structural glass solutions can suffer for these effects in terms of major modification of material properties of interlayers, bonds, connections, gaskets and polymeric components in general. In this paper, the attention is given to the effects of repeated low-amplitude impacts and short-term temperature gradients for the characterization of load-bearing capacity in monolithic glass elements retrofitted by safety films. Especially for existing glass systems which are made of monolithic glass with limited strength and resistance capacity against ordinary and accidental mechanical loads, safety films are commercially available for retrofit interventions. They are primarily expected to keep together glass fragments in case of breakage, and thus minimize possible injuries. Besides, after first fracture, the so obtained glass-film composite elements have uncertain residual mechanical capacity against ordinary loads, given that it mostly depends on thin films composed of Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-layers and pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs). To this aim, a set of experiments (for a total of 950 configurations) is carried out in laboratory conditions (30 °C) on small-scale samples of fractured annealed monolithic glass elements bonded by commercial safety films, under repeated low-amplitude impacts / vibrations (S1-TR series), or additionally subjected to preliminary short-term thermal gradients (S2-TC1 series cooled at +5 °C and S3-TC2 series at −20 °C). Localized impacts are quantified in acceleration peaks in the range of 2 ÷ 14 m/s2 and rotations at supports in the order of 15 ÷ 20°. The interpretation of dynamic experimental results is carried out in terms of post-fracture vibration frequency (based on classical operational modal analysis techniques) and used, with the support of simplified analytical models or Finite Element (FE) numerical simulations, to characterize the response of cracked glass-film samples. Most importantly, the vibration frequency decrease is used to quantify their residual load-bearing capacity under unfavourable conditions, and to quantify the post-critical benefit of thin bonding safety films under unfavourable conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of Trypanosoma spp. in wild carnivore populations has been intensively investigated during the last decades. However, the impact of these parasites on the health of free-living infected animals has been largely neglected. The Pantanal biome is the world’s largest seasonal wetland, harboring a great diversity of species and habitats. This includes 174 species of mammals, of which 20 belong to the order Carnivora. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Trypanosoma evansi and Trypanosoma cruzi infections and coinfections on the health of the most abundant carnivores in the Pantanal: coati (Nasua nasua), crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous), and ocelot (Leopardus pardalis). We captured 39 coatis, 48 crab-eating foxes, and 19 ocelots. Diagnostic tests showed T. cruzi infection in 7 crab-eating foxes and 5 coatis. Additionally, 7 crab-eating foxes, 10 coatis, and 12 ocelots were positive for T. evansi. We observed coinfections in 9 crab-eating foxes, 8 coatis, and 2 ocelots. This is the first report of T. evansi and T. cruzi infection on the health of free-living ocelots and crab-eating foxes. We showed that single T. evansi or T. cruzi infection, as well as coinfection, caused some degree of anemia in all animals, as well as an indirect negative effect on body condition in coatis and crab-eating foxes via anemia indicators and immune investment, respectively. Furthermore, the vigorous immune investment observed in sampled coatis, crab-eating foxes and ocelots infected by T. evansi, T. cruzi and coinfected can be highly harmful to their health. Overall, our results indicate that single and combined infection with T. evansi and T. cruzi represent a severe risk to the health of wild carnivores in the Pantanal region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yield forecasting is of immeasurable value in modern viticulture to optimize harvest scheduling and quality management. Traditionally, this task is carried out through manual and destructive sampling of production components and their accurate assessment is expensive, time-consuming, and error-prone, resulting in erroneous projections. The number of inflorescences and flowers per vine is one of the main components and serves as an early predictor. The adoption of new non-invasive technologies can automate this task and drive viticulture yield forecasting to higher levels of accuracy. In this study, different Single Stage Instance Segmentation models from the state-of-the-art You Only Look Once (YOLO) family, such as YOLOv5 and YOLOv8, were benchmarked on a dataset of RGB images for grapevine inflorescence detection and segmentation, with the aim of validating and subsequently implementing the solution for counting the number of inflorescences and flowers. All models obtained promising results, with the YOLOv8s and the YOLOv5s models standing out with an F1-Score of 95.1% and 97.7% for the detection and segmentation tasks, respectively. Moreover, the low inference times obtained demonstrate the models' ability to be deployed in real-time applications, allowing for non-destructive predictions in uncontrolled environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The echimyid rodents Thrichomys fosteri and Clyomys laticeps are among the most commonly recorded small mammals in the Pantanal wetland of Brazil. These species play important ecological roles since they are the basis of the food chain of some predators and are parasitized by some pathogens. Knowledge of the eimerians that parasitize echimyid rodents in Brazil is absent, and only one report is available for South America. We therefore investigated parasitism by coccidians in the echimyids T. fosteri and C. laticeps in the Pantanal. Using morphological and morphometric features and associated statistical analyses, we describe five new eimerian species parasitizing T. fosteri ( Eimeria nhecolandensis n. sp., Eimeria jansenae n. sp., and Eimeria fosteri n. sp.) and C. laticeps ( E. nhecolandensis n. sp. , Eimeria corumbaensis n. sp., and Eimeria laticeps n. sp.) in different types of infection associations. We document the developmental forms in the tissues, and describe lesions in the enteric tract of some infected animals. We also discuss some approaches regarding epidemiological and ecological data. Our results demonstrate that echimyid rodents in the Brazilian Pantanal are important hosts for the maintenance of enteric coccidia. Moreover, in some circumstances, this parasitism may threaten the health of the hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella pertussis. Despite widespread vaccination, its incidence has been rising alarmingly, and yet, the physiology of B. pertussis remains poorly understood. We combined genome-scale metabolic reconstruction, a novel optimization algorithm, and experimental data to probe the full metabolic potential of this pathogen, using B. pertussis strain Tohama I as a reference. Experimental validation showed that B. pertussis secretes a significant proportion of nitrogen as arginine and purine nucleosides, which may contribute to modulation of the host response. We also found that B. pertussis can be unexpectedly versatile, being able to metabolize many compounds while displaying minimal nutrient requirements. It can grow without cysteine, using inorganic sulfur sources, such as thiosulfate, and it can grow on organic acids, such as citrate or lactate, as sole carbon sources, providing in vivo demonstration that its tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is functional. Although the metabolic reconstruction of eight additional strains indicates that the structural genes underlying this metabolic flexibility are widespread, experimental validation suggests a role of strain-specific regulatory mechanisms in shaping metabolic capabilities. Among five alternative strains tested, three strains were shown to grow on substrate combinations requiring a functional TCA cycle, but only one strain could use thiosulfate. Finally, the metabolic model was used to rationally design growth media with >2-fold improvements in pertussis toxin production. This study thus provides novel insights into B. pertussis physiology and highlights the potential, but also the limitations, of models based solely on metabolic gene content. IMPORTANCE The metabolic capabilities of Bordetella pertussis, the causative agent of whooping cough, were investigated from a systems-level perspective. We constructed a comprehensive genome-scale metabolic model for B. pertussis and challenged its predictions experimentally. This systems approach shed light on new potential host-microbe interactions and allowed us to rationally design novel growth media with >2-fold improvements in pertussis toxin production. Most importantly, we also uncovered the potential for metabolic flexibility of B. pertussis (significantly larger range of substrates than previously alleged; novel active pathways allowing growth in minimal, nearly mineral nutrient combinations where only the carbon source must be organic), although our results also highlight the importance of strain-specific regulatory determinants in shaping metabolic capabilities. Deciphering the underlying regulatory mechanisms appears to be crucial for a comprehensive understanding of B. pertussis's lifestyle and the epidemiology of whooping cough. The contribution of metabolic models in this context will require the extension of the genome-scale metabolic model to integrate this regulatory dimension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria have promising potential as sustainable cell factories. However, one challenge that is still largely unreported in scaling-up cyanobacteria bioproduction is phenotypic instability, where the emergence and selection of nonproducing cells leading to loss in production has longer evolutionary timescales to take place in industrial-scale bioreactors. Quantifying phenotypic instability early on in strain development allows researchers to make informed decisions on whether to proceed with scalable designs, or if present, devise countermeasures to reduce instability. One particularly effective strategy to mitigate instability is the use of genome-scale metabolic models to design growth-coupled production strains. In silico studies have predicted that creating certain cofactor imbalances or removing recycling reactions in cyanobacteria can be exploited to stably produce a wide variety of metabolites. [Display omitted] ● Phenotypic instability of production hosts can be a major challenge in biotechnology. ● Quantifying phenotypic instability helps decide on whether to proceed with up-scaling. ● Imposed cofactor imbalances can be exploited to stabilize compound production. ● Reutilization reactions can stabilize production particularly in photoautotrophs. ● Several computational tools are available to design stable production strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is an exploratory study on the dynamic response of a building model equipped with multiple curved-surface sliders. By using, as benchmarks, numerical models of non-isolated and conventional base-isolated systems, it is possible to show the optimized acceleration response of a building with distributed isolation, for a wider frequency input range of the dynamic loading. A set of experimental tests on a 3D printed small-scale prototype also allows to demonstrate the good dynamic performance of the proposed system, providing a consistent background into new developments of this isolation technology. • A new modular building concept is presented, provided with an inter-story isolation system. • A 3D printed prototype is analyzed, with building blocks that can slide between each other. • The system exhibits a good performance for a wide range of input frequencies. • A FE model is validated, paving the way to subsequent parametric studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper studies the feasibility, through physical experimentation, of efficient and low-cost macrostrain sensors, based on shape-memory alloy technologies. The motivation of this work is to explore the intrinsic relation between electrical resistivity and strain, associated with the development of the stress induced martensitic transformation in superelastic shape-memory alloys. This property enables the material to endure deformations up to 8% without any residual strains, making shape-memory alloy wires excellent candidates for kernel elements in innovative strain transducers with dynamic ranges 4 to 5 times larger than the currently available strain transducers. An experimental prototype of a beam with a set of SMA macrostrain sensors is presented, featuring a timed scanning sequential algorithm to successfully perform the resistance readings. The aim of this work is to provide an additional insight into the potential of SMAs in new macrostrain measurement applications. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an empirical model to predict attenuation in forest environments considering parameters related to vegetation. Typically, environmental parameters are only included in theoretical models, but they are more difficult to apply. The developed model uses tree density, average tree canopy diameter and foliage density as input parameters. The foliage density is very difficult to determine since it depends on the characteristics of trees. A simple metric of this parameter was obtained by measuring the background light silhouetted by the canopy. The model was developed with measurements obtained in different forest environments for two frequencies within the UHF band (Ultra High Frequency). A procedure was also applied to extend the operating frequency range of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual perception enables robots to perceive the environment. Visual data is processed using computer vision algorithms that are usually time-expensive and require powerful devices to process the visual data in real-time, which is unfeasible for open-field robots with limited energy. This work benchmarks the performance of different heterogeneous platforms for object detection in real-time. This research benchmarks three architectures: embedded GPU—Graphical Processing Units (such as NVIDIA Jetson Nano 2 GB and 4 GB, and NVIDIA Jetson TX2), TPU—Tensor Processing Unit (such as Coral Dev Board TPU), and DPU—Deep Learning Processor Unit (such as in AMD/Xilinx ZCU104 Development Board, and AMD/Xilinx Kria KV260 Starter Kit). The authors used the RetinaNet ResNet-50 fine-tuned using the natural VineSet dataset. After the trained model was converted and compiled for target-specific hardware formats to improve the execution efficiency. The platforms were assessed in terms of performance of the evaluation metrics and efficiency (time of inference). Graphical Processing Units (GPUs) were the slowest devices, running at 3 FPS to 5 FPS, and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) were the fastest devices, running at 14 FPS to 25 FPS. The efficiency of the Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) is irrelevant and similar to NVIDIA Jetson TX2. TPU and GPU are the most power-efficient, consuming about 5 W. The performance differences, in the evaluation metrics, across devices are irrelevant and have an F1 of about 70 % and mean Average Precision (mAP) of about 60 %. [Display omitted] • RetinaNet ResNet50 and SSD ResNet50 can be successfully executed in embedded GPUs, TPUs, and FPGAs. • FPGAs are the fastest devices for executing deep learning models and ANNs. • TPUs are the most power-efficient devices for embedded applications. • GPUs offer a good balance between implementation and deployment of ANNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purification and recovery of bioactive compounds in food and food waste has been a growing topic within the literature. One of the most used techniques for these processes is through the application of macroporous polymeric resins (MPRs). MPRs have high adsorption and desorption capacities for substances such as polyphenols and sugars that are present in extracts and industrial effluents. There are currently several resins on the market (copolymers of styrenedivinylbenzene, acrylic, sulfonic, or cyanamide); however, a lack of information in the literature regarding the efficiency of analyte recovery and the different physicochemical characteristics of the MPRs means that no broad correlations have been made. Upon compiling the information gained from a comprehensive bibliographic review, using databases such as ScienceDirect and Web of Science, it was possible to classify the different types of resins. In addition, this review will discuss the use of isothermal equations (Langmuir and Freundlich) in experimental data, which can provide quantitative and qualitative parameters of the processes involving the analyte and the MPR. [Display omitted] • Macroporous polymeric resin (MPR) is a tool that helps the analysis of food samples. • MPR allows adjustments of the adsorption and desorption processes. • Recovery of polyphenols and sugars has been shown to be efficient in complex matrices. • We hope to help researchers in choosing the ideal resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies innovative restraining solutions based on lateral nickel-titanium (NiTi) shape-memory alloy (SMA) cables. Two novel control approaches are tested, which take advantage of superelasticity and the shape-memory effect. Superelasticity is employed in a passive control approach, using the restraining cables to increase the postbuckling resistance and recentering capabilities of a compressed column while dissipating energy. A numerical model to simulate this passive control system is also proposed and validated, adequately representing both its material and geometric nonlinearities. Additional parametric tests are performed, providing more insight into the good performance of the proposed system. The shape-memory effect (SME) is used in an active control approach, using the cables as actuators to counteract the buckling motion of the column. Experimental prototypes are built and tested in order to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of these two control solutions, which aim to demonstrate the versatility of these exceptional materials for new structural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the dynamic behaviour of cable-supported glazing facades subjected to medium-level air blast loads. Preliminary numerical studies are carried-out in SAP2000 by means of a geometrically refined and simplified lumped-mass finite-element numerical model, in order to assess the major effects of the design blast load in the main facade components. As shown, both the glass panels and the cable system are able to properly accommodate the incoming impulsive loads, typically involving extreme deflections and high tensile stresses. In order to mitigate the effects of blast pressures on the glazing system, an innovative and particularly efficient active control system is proposed. The control system implemented in the glazed cable facade is based on a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control algorithm, in which the control variable is the tension in the cables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compounds with trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium (THTP) cations and first row transition metal-substituted Keggin polyoxoanions were synthesised, having the general formula (THTP)m[PW11O39M(H2O)] with M = Fe, Co, Mn and m = anion charge. All compounds were characterized by spectroscopic and analytical techniques. These studies indicated that both the polyoxometalates and the cations are present in the new compounds without major alterations. All compounds are coloured liquids at room temperature and are stable up to ca. 300 °C. Studies conducted at low temperatures point to a solidification process at about −25 °C for the Fe and Co materials. Electrochemical measurements were performed for (THTP)4[PW11O39Fe(H2O)] on a functionalized glassy carbon electrode. This work was complemented by the preparation and characterization of compounds with the anions [PW11O39]7− and [P2W20O70(H2O)2]10−, which were also liquids at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article attempts to understand how "school" and "family" mediations work in teenagers with regard to book consumption and reading. It discusses the use and ownership of the book, as a media product, through cultural studies, especially from the perspective of mediations (Martín-Barbero) and sociocultural consumption (Canclini). This is a reception study with teens from a public school in Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul. In terms of method, ethnographic techniques were employed, such as participant observation, informal conversations, field diaries, questionnaires, and interviews. The importance of mediations was observed both in terms of stimulating the reader's behavior and in book consumption. Even immersed in the technological context, the relationship with the printed book is intense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the representations of the construction process on the man through possible imagery update movement(s) of masculinity(ies) in contemporary advertising. Based on socio-cultural context and advertising, we have developed two empirical analysis categories - Flexible and Oppositional - which expressed in a greater or lesser degree of intensity, other possibilities of experiencing masculinity. For this, we analyze eightcommercials, local and global broadcasting, from the methodological proposal of Joly (1996), combining technical aspects of the advertising message to social practices, to understand the flexibility of movement and spacing of the male image in relation to hegemonic model, traditional media and masculinity. The need to promote other imagistic representations of masculinity, a result of the reflection of the very practical field of advertising, we believe that this openness, even if still limited and far from the case of young male, is able to propose updates and mainly rethink one male hegemonic that historically seems to belittle and override other ways to experience a plural masculinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several novel compounds with 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium cations (alkyl = butyl and octyl) and first row transition metal-substituted Keggin polyoxoanions were synthesised, having the general formula (cation) m [PW 11 O 39 M(H 2 O)]· x H 2 O or (cation) m −1 H[PW 11 O 39 M(H 2 O)]· x H 2 O, M = Co, Fe, Mn and m = anion charge. All compounds were characterized by spectroscopic and analytical techniques. These studies indicated that both the polyoxometalates and the cations are present in the solids without major alterations. Cyclic voltammetry studies were performed for compounds with 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium. Disregarding the loss of crystallization or coordinated water, the compounds were found to be stable up to near 300 °C. The onset of the decomposition of the organic cations, as determined by thermogravimetry, occurred in the 300–350 °C range. The metal-substituted polyoxoanions are stable up to around 300 °C, but after this temperature the anions transform into the parent [PW 12 O 40 ] 3− anion, with loss of the substituting metal. Final decomposition to a mixture of oxides occurred only above 600 °C. It was also possible to obtain the crystalline compounds Na 2 K(Bmim) 2 [PW 11 O 39 Co(H 2 O)]·7.5H 2 O and Na(Bmim) 4 [PW 11 O 39 Co(H 2 O)]·2H 2 O and determine their structures by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds with substituted imidazolium cations and metal-substituted polyoxometalates are expected to present a set of properties that make them interesting in many fields, like catalysis. This study aimed at contributing to the understanding the effect of altering the substituting metal and the counter-cation in the properties of this type of compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Log-normal is a very common propagation model used to estimate the path loss introduced by a given environment. However, in most cases the parameters of the model are antenna specific. In this work, it is shown that the path loss exponent is highly dependent on the antenna pair used in the communication system. Large errors are introduced in the prediction of the path loss if the antennas are different from those used to obtain the parameters of the propagation model. An improved model is developed for the 2.4 GHz industrial, scientific and medical band to estimate the path loss exponent for different antenna directivities knowing the path loss exponent of a reference antenna. The model uses the antenna beamwidth and the antenna gain to obtain a parameter related to the path loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article was to investigate the scientific production on human development from the perspective of bio-ecological theory and its relationship to the following themes: children's advertising and televised media consumption. After identifying the topics and selecting the research question, the digital database of the collection of Capes periodicals was accessed. Then, the results were analyzed and organized. Five hundred fifty-four items were found, but only a small number of them addressed the central issues of this research. Despite the growth of information technology and children's increased contact not only with television, but also with various other media, the number of studies based on theories of human development concerning this society in which consumer products and services is a constant practice in families is still small. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliable biological identification is essential for effective management programs for fishery resources. In many cases, individuals of species with overlapping features and/or subtle morphological differences can be misidentified by traditional taxonomic procedures. The conservation status (i.e., genetic diversity) of commercial fishery stocks of the Southern Atlantic are in general poorly understood. The halfbeak populations found off the coast of northeastern Brazil represent a suitable model for testing controversial identifications, given that the two local species ( Hemiramphus brasiliensis and H. balao) not only present very subtle morphological differences, but are also harvested intensively. The present study examined the potential occurrence of the two species off the coast of the Brazilian state of Pernambuco using a multilocus DNA approach, which also provided insights into the conservation status of these stocks in relation to the genetic variation found in both mitochondrial and nuclear regions, analyzed by molecular systematics and population genetics parameters. The results indicated the presence of only one halfbeak species in the region, reinforced by phylogenetic relationships and population genetics in both mitochondrial and nuclear loci. The conservation status of the stocks in terms of their genetic diversity appears to be good despite the intense exploitation. The results of this study provide a new perspective for the conservation and management of this fishery resource, particularly given the fact that the intensive exploitation over the last five decades appears to have impacted a single species, rather than two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of a modern glass facade translates an architectural aspiration for transparency. Innovative technological solutions have made it possible to materialise a transparent planar surface, exploring the load-bearing capabilities of the glass itself. Facades also need to have back-up structures, which are designed to withstand seismic and wind actions. This paper analyses the behaviour of a 'smart' glass facade, based on a bow-string truss solution, which is able to continuously adapt its shape in order to compensate for the wind dynamic displacements, affecting the structural appearance. The wave superposition method is used to generate samples of the wind distributions, using sinusoidal functions. A proportional-integral-derivative control strategy enables a significant reduction of the displacements shown by the facade during wind events. This design approach yields an optimised structural solution in terms of weight, allowing the materialisation of a very light facade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the case of a 58-year-old female who was presented to a rheumatology clinic due to month-long history of multiple and painful indurated erythematoviolaceous nodules and Gottron papule's and was diagnosed with amyopathic dermatomyositis.

The article discusses the case of a 71-year-old male with a five-year history of progressive proximal muscle weakness. Topics include findings on physical examination, histologic findings compatible with sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM), and response of the patient to methotrexate. Contradicting data about IBM are also mentioned.

A significant number of adult oncology patients require at least one peripheral intravenous catheter to fulfill their therapeutic plan. Recent evidence indicates that catheter failure rates are high in this cohort, impacting care outcomes and patient experience during cancer treatment. This reality represents a challenge to nurses worldwide since in most international settings they are responsible for delivering quality care during the insertion and maintenance of such devices. This study aims to explore current nursing practices regarding the insertion, maintenance, and surveillance of peripheral intravenous catheters in oncology patients. A two-phase mix-method study was conducted with the nursing team from the surgical ward of a large oncology hospital in Portugal. In phase one (observational prospective study), nurses' practices during catheter insertion and maintenance were observed by the research team and recorded using standardized instruments and validated scales. In phase two, three online focus groups were conducted with the nursing team to present the results observed in phase one and explore their perceptions of current practices. All ethical principles were assured throughout the study. Significant divergent practices were observed and identified by the nurses, especially concerning patient involvement, nurses' adherence to the aseptic, non-touch technique, catheter stabilization and dressing, and catheter flushing and locking. Such practices may partially explain the high complication rate found (26%) and substantiate the need for future intervention in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of DNA technologies for criminal investigation purposes illuminates an interplay of knowledge and expertise where meaning and relevance of biological traces are negotiated. Through the analysis of five criminal cases that took place in Portugal between 1995 and 2010, and where DNA technologies were used, this article will focus on the dialogues established between the police and the forensic laboratories. I will argue that, on the one hand, the police investigators' uses of DNA technologies seek to legitimate and provide an external source of neutrality and objectivity to the constructed narratives surrounding the commission of a crime. On the other hand, laboratories and forensic experts engage in the delimitation and preservation of their professional autonomy by developing boundary work around their scientific expertise through the translation and conversion of criminal traces into scientific artifacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Check the reliability of using self-reported measures of height and weight to obtain body mass index in women. Methods: Epidemiological study census, transversal in four pregnant women registered with the Family Health Units. We used a structured questionnaire containing questions about sociodemographic and anthropometric measures referred. Appealed to the Mann-Whitney U - Kruskal Wallis test to analyze differences between means in terms of categorical variables. For the agreement and obtain a summary measure of the values measured and reported, we used the kappa index and the correlation coefficient of Lin (CCL) respectively. Results: The women tended to underestimate both the weight and height, but more severe in weight (-0.90), which led to an overestimation of BMI (0.01). The weight was found to be above the upper limit (0.93) second correlation coefficient Lin, on the other hand the height and BMI are below the lower limit (0.89). 45.5% of women fall into the appropriate weight, representing a difference of approximately 10% compared to that (36.4%). Conclusion: BMI was calculated from the information provided does not fit the criteria of reliability values enough to indicate the reliability of these measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Furanoid glycosylated diterpenes (FGD) from coffee was analyzed by TLC-MS. • A methodology for extracting and detecting FGD was developed. • Four FGD were detected after concentration step in macroporous polymeric resin. • QuEChERS allowed less consumption of solvents and reagents at FGD analysis in coffee. Four furanoid glycosylated diterpenes (mascaroside I, mascaroside III, mascaroside IV and mascaroside V) were extracted from green grains of Coffea arabica after clean up steps with organic solvents (chloroform/acetone and 80 % ethanol) and concentrated with the aid of macroporous polymeric resins (XAD-2) in column. The identification of compounds has been extensively tested with the aid of hyphenated spectroscopic techniques, such as TLC-MS and ESI-HRMS. The methodology employed was shown to be efficient (81 % recovery after column) and robust (molecular ions of compounds with error <5 ppm), fitting the QuEChERS concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We review the uses and limitations of modelling approaches that are in use in the field of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB). We describe recent developments in model construction and computational methods, starting from application of such models to monocultures. However, since most applications in food biotechnology involve complex nutrient environments and mixed cultures, we extend the scope to discuss developments in modelling such complex systems. With metagenomics and meta-functional genomics data becoming available, the developments in genome-scale community models are discussed. We conclude that exploratory tools are available and useful, but truly predictive mechanistic models will remain a major challenge in the field. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Knowledge of how the activity of enzymes is affected under in vivo conditions is essential for analyzing their regulation and constructing models that yield an integrated understanding of cell behavior. Current kinetic parameters for Lactococcus lactis are scattered through different studies and performed under different assay conditions. Furthermore, assay conditions often diverge from conditions prevailing in the intracellular environment. To establish uniform assay conditions that resemble intracellular conditions, we analyzed the intracellular composition of anaerobic glucose-limited chemostat cultures of L. lactis subsp. cremoris MG 1363. Based on this, we designed a new assay medium for enzyme activity measurements of growing cells of L. lactis, mimicking as closely as practically possible its intracellular environment. Procedures were optimized to be carried out in 96-well plates, and the reproducibility and dynamic range were checked for all enzyme activity measurements. The effects of freezing and the carryover of ammonium sulfate from the addition of coupling enzymes were also established. Activities of all 10 glycolytic and 4 fermentative enzymes were measured. Remarkably, most in vivo-like activities were lower than previously published data. Yet, the ratios of Vmax over measured in vivo fluxes were above 1. With this work, we have developed and extensively validated standard protocols for enzyme activity measurements for L. lactis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyzes the process of identity construction male readers from the appropriation of representations on masculinity at the Men's Health magazine. Then, was realized study of reception with six assiduous readers of the magazine. Were applied in-depth interviews, structured from categories that correspond to the contemporary construction of masculinity (beauty/sexuality, consumption, work and family). It tried to be noted different forms of appropriation and resistance to this discourse hegemonic masculinity on the construction of identity of these individuals. In conclusion, it was noticed that the media still takes on the role in identity formation of their receptors -which, in time, ranging from upgrading the standard of masculinity of the "new man" to the maintenance of traditional values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]