Search

This study investigated the impact of paclobutrazol (PBZ) concentrations and application protocols on ornamental quality and consumer preference. PBZ was applied at five concentrations using three different protocols: drench at transplanting, drench 30 days after transplanting, and immersion. At commercial maturity, plants were assessed based on growth parameters related to height, canopy structure, fruit and leaf characteristics, and sensory attributes. The results indicated that PBZ treatments led to darker green leaves and, in general, the drench method, regardless of time application, was more effective in modulating plant growth compared to the immersion protocol. Conversely, the sensory analysis showed a greater preference among evaluators for plants treated with PBZ at 2.5 and 5 mg L−1 via drench at 30 days after transplanting (D30DAT) or through immersion (IM), even though IM was not associated with any of the ornamental quality parameters evaluated. Likewise, the application of PBZ by drench during transplanting is not recommended as the plants showed a reduced number and size of fruits, which affected the ornamental value of the plants and global preference. Therefore, PBZ applied by D30DAT at concentrations of 2.5 and 5 mg L−1 produced 'Biquinho Vermelha' pepper plants with attractive ornamental characteristics; and thereby, should be considered an alternative method for producers of potted ornamental plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through the shikimate pathway, a massive metabolic flux connects the central carbon metabolism with the synthesis of chorismate, the common precursor of the aromatic amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, as well as other compounds, including salicylate or folate. The alternative metabolic channeling of chorismate involves a key branch-point, finely regulated by aromatic amino acid levels. Chorismate mutase catalyzes the conversion of chorismate to prephenate, a precursor of phenylalanine and tyrosine and thus a vast repertoire of fundamental derived compounds, such as flavonoids or lignin. The regulation of this enzyme has been addressed in several plant species, but no study has included conifers or other gymnosperms, despite the importance of the phenolic metabolism for these plants in processes such as lignification and wood formation. Here, we show that maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Aiton) has two genes that encode for chorismate mutase, PpCM1 and PpCM2. Our investigations reveal that these genes encode plastidial isoenzymes displaying activities enhanced by tryptophan and repressed by phenylalanine and tyrosine. Using phylogenetic studies, we have provided new insights into the possible evolutionary origin of the cytosolic chorismate mutases in angiosperms involved in the synthesis of phenylalanine outside the plastid. Studies based on different platforms of gene expression and co-expression analysis have allowed us to propose that PpCM2 plays a central role in the phenylalanine synthesis pathway associated with lignification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a green method of producing copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using aqueous extracts from Sargassum spp. as reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents. The CuNPs created using this algae‐based method are not hazardous, they are eco‐friendly, and less toxic than their chemically synthesized counterparts. The XRD characterization of the CuNPs revealed the presence of Cu and CuO, with a crystallite size ranging from 13 to 17 nm. Following this, the CuNPs were supported onto a carbon substrate, also derived from Sargassum spp. (biochar CSKPH). The CuNPs in biochar (CuNPs‐CSKPH) did not appear in the XRD diffractograms, but the SEM‐EDS results showed that they accounted for 36 % of the copper weight. The voltamperometric study of CuNps‐CSKPH in acid media validated the presence of Cu and the amount was determined to be 2.58 μg. The catalytic activity of CuNPs‐CSKPH was analyzed for the electrochemical reduction of CO2. The use of Sargassum spp. has great potential to tackle two environmental problems simultaneously, by using it as raw material for the synthesis of activated biochar as support, as well as the synthesis of CuNPs, and secondly, by using it as a sustainable material for the electrochemical conversion of CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first studies of film and television as inducers of tourism appeared in the 1990s. From the outset, research in this area has identified a diverse range of tourist profiles, highlighting the fact that audiovisual media fans constitute an important segment of the tourism market because fan consumers dedicate considerable amounts of time, money, and energy to pursuing their specific interest. As a result, academic researchers have developed a substantial body of knowledge in this field over a relatively short period. The objective of this article is to offer a critical review of studies that have enhanced our understanding of film fan tourists to identify critical gaps in knowledge and, consequently, propose new ways to fully integrate the fan perspective into studies of audiovisual fiction-induced tourism. To this end, all the articles dealing with this specific tourist profile indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar (49) have been identified and analysed based on their year of publication, geographical location, type of audiovisual production studied, methodology adopted and composition of the sample, major research themes and main theoretical and/or practical contributions. This review of the literature on film fan tourists finds that our understanding of the specific characteristics of the profile and behaviour of this type of tourist is still limited. This is due to some extent on the lack of consensus on the definition of the concept of "fans", which has led to the erroneous classification of tourists whose travel motivation has nothing to do with a film and/or television production--and who may not even be fans of that production--as film fan tourists. The recommendations of this review thus focus mainly on reaching a consensus on the definition of the concept and establishing a single set of selection criteria for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anonymity of the Manosphere has provided a fertile breeding ground for the spread of misogyny through increased hate speech on the Internet. In recent years, this virtual space composed mostly of men, has been the subject of numerous studies aimed at identifying the discursive mechanisms of identity constructions that underlie the denigration of women. This paper takes the findings from international research on the subject to address a phenomenon still little explored in Spain through the analysis of misogynistic comments on Burbuja.info. Economic forum. The analysis sample comprises 4,281 messages that include the lexeme “woman” posted over 2.5 years, 761 of which contain expressions that ridicule, disparage, or insult women. Thematic analysis demonstrates the repetition of misogynistic topics and tropes common in the most radical Reddit and 4chan subforums, such as hypergamy, objectification, and the constant disparagement of the world of women, not to mention criticism of feminism, left-wing political parties, and legislation on gender violence. The results obtained show that the “male identity crisis” is narratively constructed in the messages on Burbuja.info using the motif of sacrifice –the cornerstone of a monotypic story in which the purpose of the hero-man-victim’s journey is to punish the villain-woman. Furthermore, we also found that there are different configurations of identity related to attitudes toward women; these match up with the four most prominent masculinist subcultures identified in the leading literature on the subject: Men Rights activists (MRA), Men Going Their Own Way (MGTOW), Pickup Artists (PUA), and Involuntary Celibates (Incels). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article summarizes the main results of a study about the disparagement of women politicians in Spain. The thematic analysis of 1,245 comments spontaneously posted on the Burbuja.info forum reveals that the commenters feel entitled to humiliate and disparage the eight female politicians embattled by the hate speech posts. While the main targets of this form of harassment have been women representatives of left-wing parties, the focus of the disparaging attacks has been the female body. This explains why those who were overweight were the most vilified, even during periods when they had a lower profile in the media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between how a television series presents the locations where it is filmed and the tourist experiences of its audience, combining content analysis and reception theory. The Spanish filming locations for Game of Thrones (HBO) were chosen as a case study. The findings suggest that tourists post more photographs on social media of locations that are shown longer on screen, that have more sequences of importance to the narrative structure and that characters interact with more intensely. These findings demonstrate the importance of the audiovisual text to the potential role of film in tourist destination promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores parasocial phenomena on social media pages related to Spanish television fiction by analysing the development of parasociality through relationships established between users and characters and the characteristics of this type of online community. The sample consisted of 4,762 spontaneous comments posted on social media pages (1,598 on Facebook and 3,164 on Twitter) linked to television series. Comments published between 1 January 2018 and 31 May 2020 were compiled the day after the premiere of each fiction. Our findings confirm those of previous researchs on the similarity between parasocial relationships with fictional characters and relationships in real life. This study also substantiates that women's comments show a greater tendency to draw associations between parasocial relationships and daily life. We also find a link between programme longevity and audience success on the one hand, and the intensity of parasocial relationships with the characters on the other. The relationships among community members reveal a degree of narcissism, prompting more self-disclosure than interaction with the rest of the users. Therefore, such relationships are closer to consociality (Kozinets, 2015) than parasociality, although significant differences concerning gender identity are also found in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Este artículo presenta los principales resultados de un estudio sobre el perfil cómico del "franquista," un personaje central en las tres comedias televisivas españolas más longevas: 7 vidas (Tele5, 1999–2006), Aída (Tele5, 2005–14) y La que se avecina (Tele5, 2007–). En los dos primeros casos, el perfil del franquista se define, además, por oposición a su antagonista: el izquierdista caracterizado como comunista. El objetivo es explorar y describir los rasgos del imaginario franquista presentes en los personajes analizados y discernir si dichas producciones de ficción invitan a su audiencia a reír con o de dicho perfil. Con este propósito se lleva a cabo un análisis de representación de personajes, basado en un guion socio-semiótico, que examina a los personajes en el conjunto del relato y desde diversas perspectivas: apariencia física, dimensión sociológica, perfil psicológico, conductores temáticos y roles semióticos. El análisis evidencia que la caracterización humorística del franquista está desprovista de rasgos que promuevan la hostilidad o el rechazo por parte de la audiencia. Se emplean diferentes estrategias narrativas que lo redimen ante la audiencia, como la construcción de un antagonista ideológico inconsistente y fracasado. Este tratamiento contribuye a banalizar el franquismo y la represión política y social que caracterizó aquel periodo histórico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phyllanthus subcarnosus, which is endemic to Cuba and Hispaniola is the only species in P. sect. Omphacodes. The representatives of Eastern Cuba had been considered a species (P. leonis) independent from those of Western Cuba due to the greater dimensions of their terminal branches, leaves, capsules, seeds and also for their floral characters. However, they are currently considered as a single species. In view of these divergent taxonomic treatments, characterize the morphological diversity of P. subcarnosus is assessed, and its nomenclature, as well as its geographical distribution in Cuba are updated, based on the study of 159 herbarium specimens that represents 59 individual plants, and on the evaluation of 56 vegetative and 63 reproductive characters. The characters that distinguish P. subcarnosus plants in Cuba from its congeners are: hardened cataphylls, elliptical or ovate leaf blade, bisexual cymules, male flowers with three stamens, female flowers with three bifid styles united in a column at the base, and fruits with 6 asymmetrically trigonous seeds. The most important vegetative characters to characterize its variability are the length of the floriferous branches, the number of leaves per floriferous branch and the length of the leaf blade. The nomenclature of the species was updated by clarifying the correct authorship of the name P. subcarnosus is established. The distribution was updated by adding 21 new locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work a first approximation to obtain non-noble metal electrocatalysts from onion skin wastes is reported. Biocarbon were obtained at a range of 600–800 °C of pyrolysis temperature activated by chemical treatment with HNO 3. It was observed that the pyrolysis temperature has a direct effect on the structural and textural properties, besides the morphology of the onion skin waste-derived biocarbon, which shows to have influence on the catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction ORR. AOB700 was the non-noble metal electrocatalyst with the best performance for the ORR evaluated in alkaline electrolyte (0.5 mol L−1 KOH), which had the highest surface area (242 m2g-1) and a current density of −2.35 mA cm−2 with an onset potential of 0.82 V/RHE. The chemical surface composition shows that N -pyridinic, N -amine, N -quaternary and N -pyrrolic nitrogen species are present on this electrocatalysts. The use of onion skin waste as raw material in the production of non-noble metal electrocatalysts is a sustainable solution to avoid the disposal of abundant biomass residues as onion skins. Image 1 • Use as onion skin waste as potential raw material in the synthesis of as non-noble metal electrocatalysts for the ORR. • Effect of the pyrolysis temperature on the catalytic activity of onion skin-derived biocarbon towards ORR. • N -doped biocarbon as non-noble metal electrocatalyst for alkaline low temperature fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very small number of minor salivary glands is seen around the larynx and trachea. A tumor originating from the salivary glands is infrequently seen in the respiratory tract. Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is a benign tumor that can be seen on the head and neck area, most frequently involving major salivary glands. PA originating from the tracheobronchial tree is very rare. We describe here one of such cases, detected during the workup of a health-care worker that became infected with coronavirus disease 2019. Clinicians should be aware of benign tumors arising from the tissues of the central airways and avoid late diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of the entertainment in the media communication about health issues has become a usual strategy since the 1990s. Notwithstanding, despite its effectiveness has been repeatedly proven, some scholars criticize the bias in the messages and question the benefits. This research proposes an original methodology combining quantitative techniques (SPSS) and qualitative approaches (social semiotic and script theory) to analyze the representations of the disease, disability and toxic substance use by the female characters in the Spanish TV fiction. The analysis shows the ambivalence between the teaching vocation of the stories and the recurrence of topics. Results also show the low relevance that female health and the healthy habit promotion have. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The popular Spanish fiction series Money Heist has been seen in more than 190 countries and has won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama. In 41 episodes over five seasons, a group of thieves dressed in red overalls and concealing their faces behind Salvador Dalí masks break into the Royal Mint of Spain and the Bank of Spain with the intention of carrying out an ambitious heist at each location. There are almost no product placements of reallife tourist attractions in the narrative structure of the series. This article discusses whether certain symbolic constructs identified in Money Heist could act as tourism inducers in the same way as the placement of real-life locations, a practice explored extensively in recent research. This study finds a considerable increase in tourist numbers to the Royal Mint of Spain that coincided with a massive rise in searches on YouTube for identifying elements of the series and a significant correlation between those elements and Spanish tourist destinations on Instagram. It thus offers evidence of the presence of symbolic constructs that could serve as inducers of both domestic and international tourism to Madrid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies the reception of the Spanish television fiction, by combining offline analysis techniques (questionnaires and focus group) and online (analysis of comments on the Internet). The offline analysis reveals the complementary and specialized nature of the devices, but the online analyses do not provide evidence about the impact of the second screen in the socialization process, nor on the construction of feminine identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American prime time animated comedy is characterized by its narrative structure based on parody other genres and formats, mainly the sitcom. Through textual analysis, this research examines the parodic strategies used by the animated comedy to transform narrative elements that define the sitcom: happy endings, cyclic structure, stereotypical characters and canned laughter. The study concludes that TV parody, represented by animated comedies, works as a tool for reflection and review of fictional and entertainment contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study is to analyze how Pedro Almodóvar's cinema influences the perceived image of Spain by French viewers, considering the content of his films, the diversity of audiences, and the level of engagement of the spectators. Methodology: Twenty in-depth interviews were conducted with French viewers who have a high knowledge of Almodóvar's cinema. The questions emerged from studies on narrative persuasion, audiovisual fiction tourism induced, and the image of tourist destinations. Results: Despite all the testimonies having extensive knowledge of Almodóvar's cinema, there are differences among types of viewers based on their familiarity with Spain, the level of consumption, and engagement. Discussion: The results are related to previous research findings on the effects of audiovisual fiction on destination images. A high degree of correspondence can be observed between the image projected by the films and the one perceived by the viewers, highlighting the importance of familiarity with the country, the relative influence of stereotypes projected in his cinema, and the inability to turn specific locations into icons. Conclusions: The study demonstrates an undeniable link between representation, audience type, reception, and the effect on the image. The high degree of coincidence between the image projected by Almodóvar's cinema and the one perceived by the viewers is related to their engagement with the films and their familiarity with Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American prime time animated comedy is characterized by its narrative structure based on parody other genres and formats, mainly the sitcom. Through textual analysis, this research examines the parodie strategies used by the animated comedy to transform narrative elements that define the sitcom: happy endings, cyclic structure, stereotypical characters and canned laughter. The study concludes that TV parody, represented by animated comedies, works as a tool for reflection and review of fictional and entertainment contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY The sexual development of saurians follows a similar pattern to that described for other amniotes. Changes in the timing or sequence of development events are known as heterochrony. We describe the pattern of sexual development in the viviparous Mexican lizard Barisia imbricata and report heterochrony in the regression of hemipenes in this lizard. We collected gestating females; some lizards were subjected to partial hysterectomy and the embryos were processed using routine histological technique to assess gonadal development; the remaining embryos were used to assess the development of hemipenes. Other pregnant females were kept in captivity in individual terraria until the time of delivery. All neonates were sexed by eversion of hemipenes and some of their body characteristics were recorded. Several neonates were sacrificed and processed to establish gonadal histology and the young of the remaining litters were maintained in captivity to observe the fate of the hemipenes in both sexes. Gonadal development began at embryonic stage 33 and the hemipenes were visible at the same stage. In the neonates, the ovary contained oogonias and ovarian follicles, whereas the testicles showed testicular cords. All neonates had hemipenes and sex could only be established through direct observation of the reproductive ducts and gonadal histology. The hemipenes regression in the females begins after approximately 7 months of postnatal development and concludes at about 15 months of age. We think that the delayed regression of the hemipenes reflects evolutionary differences among reptiles and may be an indication of a stage in the evolutionary process of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this paper is to analyze the prime time animated comedy, a television subgenre present in U.S. programming for more than 50 years, but still undefined. In order to fulfil the objectives of this paper, prime time animated comedy is explored using gender analysis, which includes the 108 programmes produced so far. The analysis reveals that the evolution and consolidation of the prime time animated comedy is the result of the television productions developed by Fox and cable television channels, as well as indicating that the programs belonging to this subgenre are characterized by the use of three transtextual strategies: parody, selfreflexivity and intertextuality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Traffic accidents involving wild boar or roe deer are not random in time or space. [•] Spatial collision patterns were mapped at the province level in Lugo (NW Spain). [•] Temporal collision patterns were detailed at seasonal, weekly and daily scales. [•] Rut, birth, sunrise and sunset mainly govern the temporality of these events. [•] Accident clusters were mapped along 41 daily and seasonal periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents an image-based dynamic visual servoing to make a mobile robot able to track a moving object on the workspace by using a calibrated on board vision system. The stability of the proposed system is proved based on its passivity properties. A robustness analysis and an L 2-gain performance analysis are also presented. Experimental results are shown to illustrate the system performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An alternative for the production of drug delivery system is proposed based on the Ceiba pentandra milkweed. The kapok cellulose was chemically crosslinked with citric acid (CA) at different CA proportions, and loaded with chlorhexidine diacetate (CHX) at different concentrations. Cellulose crosslinking was followed with FTIR and XPS analysis, and the CHX loading was determined using elemental analysis. In vitro studies showed a burst release within the first 2–3 h and the drug release kinetics was described with several models. In addition, the crosslinked Ceiba pentandra fibers did not exhibit a cytotoxic effect on human dermic fibroblasts. Results indicate that the crosslinked Ceiba pentandra fibers are a feasible material for the production of systems for drug release applications. [Display omitted] • An alternative drug delivery system is proposed based on the Ceiba pentandra milkweed. • Ceiba pentandra cellulose was chemically crosslinked with citric acid. • In vitro studies, Ceiba cellulose showed a burst release within the first 2–3 h. • Crosslinked Ceiba fibers are non-cytotoxic on human dermic fibroblasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonatites are peculiar igneous rocks, consisting mainly of greater than 50% carbonate minerals, which arouse an economic interest due to the potentiality of high phosphate content and Light Rare Earth Elements (LREE) associated with their occurrence. The Passo Feio Carbonatite (PFC) is located 17 km Southwest of Caçapava do Sul city and constitutes NW dipping body, which is interposed with Passo Feio Formation metamorphic rocks. The PFC varies texturally from massive to foliated, being mainly composed of calcites and dolomites and on a smaller scale by apatites, phlogopites and tremolites. The opaque minerals correspond to hematites, magnetites, pyrites and barites, while the accessory minerals are represented by zircons, monazites- (Ce) and aeschynites- (Ce). Probably those REE mineral phases correspond to a hydrothermal stage, with the REE remobilization from apatites into those latter REE-rich mineral phases – this hypothesis is corroborated by geochemistry, mineral chemistry and microtextures found. Considering the results of mineral chemistry and taking into account the textural criteria, it was possible to classify carbonatite as an alvikite, with geochemical patterns that do not indicate economic potential for REE. However, soil geochemistry showed an important enrichment in REE, reflecting a probable concentration of monazites- (Ce) and aeschynites- (Ce), and because of this, it was possible to establish a zone in which the Passo Feio Carbonatite would probably be extended. In the stable isotope analyzes, the δ13C values varied between −4.14 and −3.89‰, while those of δ18O between 10.01 and 11.32‰, which can be attributed to the cooling of the magma itself, without suggesting metamorphic processes or subsequent changes. The deformation found in this carbonatite was probably developed in late-magmatic conditions, guided by tectonics associated with horizontal movements in shear zones. Thus, this work suggests that this carbonatite was the product of the reactivation of mantle sources, within a post-collision magmatic context of the Sul-Riograndense Shield. • The Passo Feio Carbonatite can be classified as an alvikite due to its composition and texture. • The δ13C values varied between −4.14 and −3.89‰ and the δ18O between 10.01 and 11.32‰. • The soils associated with the carbonatite showed important REE-enrichment. • REE minerals found would be a product of REE remobilization from apatites. • This carbonatite might be the product of the reactivation of mantle sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first studies of film and television as inducers of tourism appeared in the 1990s. In light of the role these media play in tourist decisions, studies of the capacity of audiovisual fiction to project a unique image of tourist attractions and destinations or to influence audience perceptions of them are particularly important. However, ever since research of this kind began, it has suffered from significant theoretical and methodological shortcomings associated mainly with the lack of an interdisciplinary approach. Most of the research has been in the field of tourism and marketing studies, with only a limited number of contributions from film and television studies. The objective of this article is to offer a critical review of studies exploring the relationship between audiovisual fiction and tourist destination image. The aim is to identify their conceptual shortcomings and to point out possible solutions with reference to audiovisual textual theory and analysis. The article begins with the identification of the main areas studied in this research: the effect on the attributes of tourist destinations and on their overall image, stereotypes, and the capacity of audiovisual fiction to vest the locations where their stories are set with different connotations. This is followed by an analysis of studies that exhibit more of an interdisciplinary approach by combining audiovisual studies and tourism studies. The article then addresses the debate over the types of audiovisual productions that researchers argue have the greatest tourism-inducing capacity. Finally, the conclusions point out possible future lines of research based more on explanation than on description, recommending the systematic incorporation of textual analysis into research on film-induced tourism, and particularly on its impact on tourist destination image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gene expression in malaria parasites is subject to various layers of regulation, including histone post-translational modifications (PTMs). Gene regulatory mechanisms have been extensively studied during the main developmental stages of Plasmodium parasites inside erythrocytes, from the ring stage following invasion to the schizont stage leading up to egress. However, gene regulation in merozoites that mediate the transition from one host cell to the next is an understudied area of parasite biology. Here, we sought to characterize gene expression and the corresponding histone PTM landscape during this stage of the parasite lifecycle through RNA-seq and ChIP-seq on P. falciparum blood stage schizonts, merozoites, and rings, as well as P. berghei liver stage merozoites. In both hepatic and erythrocytic merozoites, we identified a subset of genes with a unique histone PTM profile characterized by a region of H3K4me3 depletion in their promoter. These genes were upregulated in hepatic and erythrocytic merozoites and rings, had roles in protein export, translation, and host cell remodeling, and shared a DNA motif. These results indicate that similar regulatory mechanisms may underlie merozoite formation in the liver and blood stages. We also observed that H3K4me2 was deposited in gene bodies of gene families encoding variant surface antigens in erythrocytic merozoites, which may facilitate switching of gene expression between different members of these families. Finally, H3K18me and H2K27me were uncoupled from gene expression and were enriched around the centromeres in erythrocytic schizonts and merozoites, suggesting potential roles in the maintenance of chromosomal organization during schizogony. Together, our results demonstrate that extensive changes in gene expression and histone landscape occur during the schizont-to-ring transition to facilitate productive erythrocyte infection. The dynamic remodeling of the transcriptional program in hepatic and erythrocytic merozoites makes this stage attractive as a target for novel anti-malarial drugs that may have activity against both the liver and blood stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, electroactive biofilms of Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) or Escherichia coli (E. coli) were supported on functionalized biocarbon (AB7-F), which was synthesized from waste leather and was used as catalysts to develop bioanodes for microbial fuel cells (MFCs). This way, bioanodes were fabricated and further evaluated in a three-electrode cell using pharmaceutical wastewater (PWW) as substrate. The electrochemical measurements showed a higher performance of the bioanode based on AB7-f+ B. subtilis to oxidize organic matter from PWW. The polarization curves in the dual-chamber MFC showed that AB7-f+ B. subtilis bioanode can generate an open circuit voltage of 602 mV and a power density of 77 mW m−2. During long-term tests of the MFC, a variation in performance was observed, with a maximum of 96.3 mW m−2 on day 7. Such variation was attributed to the development of more stable biofilm as well as consumption of some compounds metabolized by bacteria grown on the bioanode. The results showed that AB7-f+ B. subtilis can be used as bioanode for MFCs with PWW as substrate removing around 45% of the chemical oxygen demand (COD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-industrial waste valorization is an attractive approach that offers new alternatives to deal with shrinkage and residue problems. One of these approaches is the synthesis of advanced carbon materials. Current research has shown that citrus waste, mainly orange peel, can be a precursor for the synthesis of high-quality carbon materials for chemical adsorption and energy storage applications. A recent approach to the utilization of advanced carbon materials based on lignocellulosic biomass is their use in solar absorber coatings for solar-thermal applications. This study focused on the production of biochar from Citrus aurantium orange peel by a pyrolysis process at different temperatures. Biochars were characterized by SEM, elemental analysis, TGA-DSC, FTIR, DRX, Raman, and XPS spectroscopies. Optical properties such as diffuse reflectance in the UV−VIS−NIR region was also determined. Physical-chemical characterization revealed that the pyrolysis temperature had a negative effect in yield of biochars, whereas biochars with a higher carbon content, aromaticity, thermal stability, and structural order were produced as the temperature increased. Diffuse reflectance measurements revealed that it is possible to reduce the reflectance of the material by controlling its pyrolysis temperature, producing a material with physicochemical and optical properties that could be attractive for use as a pigment in solar absorber coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification keys are the main tool for plant identification. However, the absence of a recent and up-to-date key to the botanical families present in Cuba greatly hinders the identification process by non-specialist researchers of the different groups. Here are seven keys for the identification of families of angiosperms of the flora of Cuba within selected morphological groups: terrestrial plants with compound and opposite leaves, plants with trifoliolate leaves, with translucent punctuation, with latex, climbing with tendrils, parasites and epiphytic angiosperms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catalytic activity and electrochemical stability of Pd‐CeO2‐NR/C (CeO2‐NR: cerium oxide nanorods) for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) and the Ethanol Oxidation Reaction (EOR) is shown in alkaline media and compared to Pd/C. Evaluation of catalytic activity for the ORR in a Rotating Ring Disc Electrode (RRDE) set‐up, shows that Pd‐CeO2‐NR/C promotes the reaction with a percentage of hydrogen peroxide production (%H2O2) around 2–4 %, and an electron transfer number (n) close to 4. Tafel plots demonstrates higher mass and specific activities of Pd‐CeO2‐NR/C than Pd/C. Moreover, from cyclic voltammetry tests, Pd‐CeO2‐NR/C shows a higher mass catalytic activity (jm= 697 mA mg−1Pd) for the EOR at a more negative onset potential (Eonset= 0.29 V/RHE) than Pd/C. After Accelerated Degradation Tests (ADT), Pd‐CeO2‐NR/C retains ∼98 % of its Electrochemically Active Surface Area (ECSA), higher than ∼51 % of Pd/C. After ADT, the performance of Pd‐CeO2‐NR/C remains similar for the ORR, while it is significantly higher for the EOR, compared to Pd/C. Thus, the addition of CeO2‐NR enhances the electrocatalytic behavior and stability of Pd towards the ORR and the EOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver injury can result from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection with more than one-third of COVID-19 patients exhibiting elevated liver enzymes. Microvesicular steatosis, inflammation, vascular congestion, and thrombosis in the liver have been described in autopsy samples from COVID-19 patients. Several factors, including direct cytopathic effect of the virus, immune-mediated collateral damage, or an exacerbation of preexisting liver disease may contribute to liver pathology in COVID-19. Due to its immunological functions, the liver is an organ likely to participate in the viral response against SARS-CoV-2 and this may predispose it to injury. A better understanding of the mechanism contributing to liver injury is needed to develop and implement early measures to prevent serious liver damage in patients suffering from COVID-19. This review summarizes current reports of SARS-CoV-2 with an emphasis on how direct infection and subsequent severe inflammatory response may contribute to liver injury in patients with and without preexisting liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the influence of an electrolytic temperature bath was used in the electrodeposition process on the size, color, and shape of the as-deposited Co(OH)2, and the electrochemical performance was investigated. Three different temperatures of 25, 60, and 95 °C were evaluated for the electrodeposition of Co(OH)2 on stainless steel plates (SSP). The electrochemical performance of the as-deposited electrodes (SSP) was measured in a symmetric electrochemical cell (EC) arrangement. XRD, SEM, and N2 physisorption analyses were carried out to evaluate the structure and morphological composition, along with the textural properties. Results showed that the hexagonal platelet micro-clusters of Co(OH)2 are formed in a mixed composition of both α-Co(OH)2 and β-Co(OH)2 phases, with the α-Co(OH)2 phase being the major phase formed in the electrodeposition process at temperatures below 95 °C, as suggested by the XRD analysis. Electrochemical cell performances were evaluated by galvanostatic cycling, results showed maximum areal capacity values of 1.97, 2.69, and 4.34 mA h cm−2 at a charge/discharge current of 6.25 mA cm−2, for the as-deposited materials at 25, 60 and 95 °C, respectively. The specific power of the EC reached up to 19 kW kg−1 for the EC obtained material at 60 °C, with a specific energy of 2.8 W h kg−1. The maximum specific energy was reached at a current density of 6.25 mA cm−2, with a value of 10.79 W h kg−1 for the EC at 60 °C. These results offer some insight into how the morphology and composition of thin films can be tuned by the electrochemical synthesis temperature, yielding different electrochemical performances and areal capacity behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Two‐point discrimination (2‐PD) is a valuable test for measuring tactile acuity that provides relevant information about cortical reorganisation and somatosensory function. Objectives: The main objectives of the present study were to assess intra‐ and interexaminer reliability of the 2‐PD test in the trigeminal region in asymptomatic individuals and only intra‐examiner reliability in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The secondary objective was to observe the correlations of the 2‐PD test with regard to pain intensity and psychological and disability variables. Methods: Intra‐ and interexaminer reliability of 2‐PD in the trigeminal region was assessed in 40 asymptomatic individuals and 54 patients with TMD. Each clinician received training in the assessment of 2‐PD using an esthesiometer and following a standardised protocol for the three branches of trigeminal nerve. Results: In the asymptomatic participants, interexaminer (intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC.64‐.88) and test‐retest (ICC.70‐.87) values were obtained. Given similar test‐retest values were shown in the group of patients with TMD (ICC.72‐.86), the reliability were considered good‐moderate. Statistically significant differences (P <.001) were obtained between the asymptomatic participants and the patients with TMD regarding the mean values from trials of the three trigeminal branch measurements, with a large effect size. Conclusion: Reliability of the 2‐PD test was considered good‐moderate. Patients with TMD showed greater distances in the 2‐PD test, suggesting that tactile acuity in the trigeminal region is impaired in patients with TMD. Assessment of tactile acuity with 2‐PD test in patients with TMD should be considered clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anodic layers have been grown on 304L stainless steel (304L SS) using two kinds of fluoride-free organic electrolytes. The replacement of NH4F for NaAlO2 or Na2SiO3 in the glycerol solution and the influence of the H2O concentration have been examined. The obtained anodic layers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and potentiodynamic polarization tests. Here, it was found that, although the anodic layers fabricated within the NaAlO2-electrolyte and high H2O concentrations presented limited adherence to the substrate, the anodizing in the Na2SiO3-electrolyte and low H2O concentrations allowed the growth oxide layers, and even a type of ordered morphology was observed. Furthermore, the electrochemical tests in chloride solution determined low chemical stability and active behavior of oxide layers grown in NaAlO2-electrolyte. In contrast, the corrosion resistance was improved approximately one order of magnitude compared to the non-anodized 304L SS substrate for the anodizing treatment in glycerol, 0.05 M Na2SiO3, and 1.7 vol% H2O at 20 mA/cm2 for 6 min. Thus, this anodizing condition offers insight into the sustainable growth of oxide layers with potential anti-corrosion properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]