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Malaria continues to be a serious global public health problem in subtropical and tropical countries of the world. The main drugs used in the treatment of human malaria, quinine and artemisinin, are isolates of medicinal plants, making the use of plants a widespread practice in countries where malaria is endemic. Over the years, due to the increased resistance of the parasite to chloroquine and artemisinin in certain regions, new strategies for combating malaria have been employed, including research with medicinal plants. This review focuses on the scientific production regarding medicinal plants from Brazil whose antimalarial activity was evaluated during the period from 2011 to 2022. For this review, four electronic databases were selected for research: Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Scielo and Periódicos CAPES. Searches were made for full texts published in the form of scientific articles written in Portuguese or English and in a digital format. In addition, prospects for new treatments as well as future research that encourages the search for natural products and antimalarial derivatives are also presented. A total of 61 publications were encountered, which cited 36 botanical families and 92 species using different Plasmodium strains in in vitro and in vivo assays. The botanical families with the most expressive number of species found were Rubiaceae, Apocynaceae, Fabaceae and Asteraceae (14, 14, 9 and 6 species, respectively), and the most frequently cited species were of the genera Psychotria L. (8) and Aspidosperma Mart. (12), which belong to the families Rubiaceae and Apocynaceae. Altogether, 75 compounds were identified or isolated from 28 different species, 31 of which are alkaloids. In addition, the extracts of the analyzed species, including the isolated compounds, showed a significant reduction of parasitemia in P. falciparum and P. berghei , especially in the clones W2 CQ-R (in vitro) and ANKA (in vivo), respectively. The Brazilian regions with the highest number of species analyzed were those of the north, especially the states of Pará and Amazonas, and the southeast, especially the state of Minas Gerais. Although many plant species with antimalarial potential have been identified in Brazil, studies of new antimalarial molecules are slow and have not evolved to the production of a phytotherapeutic medicine. Given this, investigations of plants of traditional use and biotechnological approaches are necessary for the discovery of natural antimalarial products that contribute to the treatment of the disease in the country and in other endemic regions. [Display omitted] • Malaria continues to be a serious global public health problem. • Malaria is endemic in the Amazon and, in Brazil, 99.9% of notifications of cases and deaths from malaria occur in this region. • A total of 61 papers on Brazilian plants with antimalarial activity were published from 2011 to 2022. • 75 compounds were identified or isolated from 23 different species, 31 of which are alkaloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Committed to achieving carbon neutrality by mid-century, South America faces unique challenges in carbon mitigation due to its distinct socio-economic, technological, and institutional backgrounds compared to developed and other developing economies. Previous research on South America's carbon emissions has limited country and sector coverage and typically adopts a top-down approach that focuses on the overall emissions of an economy, neglecting individual energy sources and emission sectors. Therefore, this paper compiles a comprehensive inventory of CO 2 emissions for South American countries based on a meticulous bottom-up approach and multi-source data integration, followed by a thorough analysis of their temporal evolution patterns and the driving forces behind them. Between 2010 and 2020, South America's overall emissions peaked in 2014 at 1092.3 Mt., led by emissions from oil consumption and from the transport and electricity sectors, and dropped to 865.6 Mt. in 2020, due to the economic fluctuations and COVID-19. Specifically, Brazil was the largest emitter, Chile experienced the most significant increase in emissions, and Paraguay recorded the highest emission growth rate. Generally, expanding population was constant driver of emission growth. High energy intensity led to significant emission increases in Brazil and Ecuador, while elevated carbon intensity was the main driver in Argentina. Energy structure changes played a positive role in most countries to different extents (e.g., much more significant in Brazil than in Chile) but aggrevated emissions in Paraguay and Guyana. Therefore, carbon mitigation strategies should be tailored to each country's unique national circumstances. • During 2010–2020, South America's CO 2 emissions from fossil fuels peaked in 2014. • Transport and electricity sectors comprised over 60% of total emissions. • Brazil was the top emitter, while Chile saw the largest increase in emissions. • Emission patterns and driving factors varied significantly across countries. • Carbon reduction strategies should be tailored to local circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) in environmental systems is gradually more studied worldwide. However, in Latin America, the presence of contaminants of emerging concern, together with their environmental and toxicological impacts, has recently been gaining wide interest in the scientific community. This paper presents a critical review about the source, fate, and occurrence of distinct emerging contaminants reported during the last two decades in various countries of Latin America. In recent years, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia are the main countries that have conducted research on the presence of these pollutants in biological and aquatic compartments. Data gathered indicated that pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and personal care products are the most assessed CECs in Latin America, being the most common compounds the followings: atrazine, acenaphthene, caffeine, carbamazepine, ciprofloxacin, diclofenac, diuron, estrone, losartan, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim. Most common analytical methodologies for identifying these compounds were HPLC and GC coupled with mass spectrometry with the potential to characterize and quantify complex substances in the environment at low concentrations. Most CECs' monitoring and detection were observed near to urban areas which confirm the out-of-date wastewater treatment plants and sanitization infrastructures limiting the removal of these pollutants. Therefore, the implementation of tertiary treatment should be required. In this tenor, this review also summarizes some studies of CECs removal using electrochemical advanced oxidation processes that showed satisfactory performance. Finally, challenges, recommendations, and future perspectives are discussed. [Display omitted] • Occurrence of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) in Latin America. • Pharmaceuticals, pesticides and personal care products are the most assessed CECs. • The presence of CECs were predominantly observed in close proximity to urban areas. • Electrochemical technologies are an important alternative for CECs elimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses a model of coastal barrier progradation where the development of a prograded plain was a product of the successive formation of foredune ridges followed by their burial by transgressive sand sheets and dunefields. The results are based on direct lithological data from drill holes and geomorphological analyses, indirect geophysical data (GPR), and 14C and OSL dating. Barrier progradation started at 6.69 ka (OSL) or 7.2 ka (14C), under sea-level rise. At around 5.0 ka (OSL), or thereabouts, a forced regression condition started to operate, when sea-level started to fall after it reached a maximum of 2.34 ± 0.8 m. During barrier progradation sets of foredunes were formed, and at least some of them were buried by sands of transgressive dunefields (TDF), which later evolved to transgressive sand sheets (TSS). A total of 11+ phases of TSS and a modern phase of TDF were formed in a time span of 6.69 ka (OSL) or 7.2 ka (14C), corresponding to one phase formed at each 560 or 600 yrs. Two models of possible development of the surface of Curumim barrier are proposed. • Arare record of aforedune plain buried by transgressive sandsheets formation. • The cyclic formation of transgressive dunefieldsand transgressive sand sheets. • The foredune/beach contact as a proxy of sea-level position. • Distinct contributions of normal and forced regressionon barrier progradation. • Possibletransformation of a transgressive dunefield in a transgressive sand sheet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent disastrous tailings dam failures have heightened public concerns about the safety of these structures. Typically, tailings are disposed of as a slurry in a loosely saturated state, making them susceptible to static liquefaction. The widely used limit equilibrium method for analysing tailings dams may overlook potential failures and is incapable of simulating static-liquefaction-type dam failures. This paper presents simulations of the initiation of progressive failure within a finite element framework, using a well-described tailings dam in Brazil as a basis. Three different constitutive models (Hardening Soil, SANISAND2004, and NorSand) were employed to demonstrate a numerical modelling procedure for simulating tailings dam static liquefaction and a practical approach to numerically account for the effects of fines content in slime layers. Models that incorporate the state parameter (ψ) as an integral part can realistically depict the loss of strength in loose granular materials during a liquefaction process. Stress–strain paths of representative points in critical zones of the studied tailings dam indicate localized shear deformations that lead to progressive failure due to static liquefaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir characterization is extremely important for understanding and determining the behavior of hydrocarbon reservoirs. The geophysical well logging, widely applied in the oil industry, helps to obtain essential physical properties (acoustic, electrical, mechanical, radioactive and thermal) by deploying measurement devices in the drilled well. This project aims to carry out the geological characterization of hydrocarbon reservoirs in the Amazonas Basin through the analysis of well geophysical logs. Despite the oil-producing potential of the basin, there are few published papers that use geophysical well logging for reservoir characterization. For this study, composite log data publicly provided by ANP were used. Six exploratory wells drilled in AM-T-84 and AM-T-85 exploratory blocks in the Amazonas Basin were selected. By analyzing the geophysical logs of gamma ray, resistivity, density and neutron from these wells, it was possible to identify the hydrocarbon reservoir interval within the Monte Alegre formation and obtain estimates of thickness, shale volume and porosity. The identified reservoir is relatively thin, with an average thickness of 16 m. The obtained shale volume values were relatively high, due to the influence of shale layers present in the Monte Alegre formation. The effect of clay content affected the interpretation process of the well logs; however, it did not significantly impact the reservoir porosity estimation, which ranged between 10.4 and 23.4 %. • The analysis and interpretation of well logs can provide petrophysics properties of the petroleum reservoir. • The Amazonas Basin is one of the pioneering areas for hydrocarbon exploration in northern Brazil. • Despite the clay content present in the formation, relatively good porosity values were obtained for the reservoir. • The temperature values obtained range from 70 to 95 °C. They are contained in the oil generation range (65–165 °C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yellow Fever (YF) is a viral arbovirosis of Public Health importance. In Brazil, surveillance is focused mainly on detecting epizootic events of Platyrrhini. Herein, we compared the detection and phylogenetic analysis of YF virus in two neotropical primates (NTP), a Callithrix detected in the previous epidemic period (2016–2020), and a Callicebus nigrifons , showing a new introduction of YF in 2023. This paper illustrates the importance of joint actions of laboratory and field teams to ensure quick response to Public Health emergencies, such as the intensification of vaccination of susceptible human populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is the world's leading charcoal producer, mainly used as an energy source and reducing agent for iron ore in the pig iron and steel industry. Despite its vast production, much of the Brazilian charcoal production remains low-tech and inefficient, with limited utilization of by-products. To address potential environmental impacts, promote a circular economy, and reduce energy waste in the charcoal production chain, this study presents the benefits of using wood carbonization by-products through a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The analysis was performed by comparing four scenarios: i) Current wood carbonization; ii) Wood carbonization with combustion of non-condensable gases; iii) Wood carbonization with energy recovering of non-condensable gases for electricity generation; and iv) Assessing the utilization of insoluble tar and biomass waste for generating additional electricity, and the use of Pyroligneous Extract (PE) in eucalyptus cultivation. The results demonstrate that by-product utilization prevents energy waste, with an estimated potential to generate 0.19–0.26 MWh per ton of charcoal in Scenarios 3 and 4. Furthermore, 3.3 t of CO2 eq./t of charcoal are sequestered from the atmosphere, and Scenarios 2, 3, and 4 can increase this amount by 5.06%, 6.7%, and 0.48%, respectively. This paper introduces an innovative assessment of PE utilization during eucalyptus cultivation, resulting in a 6.16% reduction in greenhouse gas emission and a 46.98% decrease in abiotic resource consumption, attributed to PE's potential to partially reduce pesticide consumption. [Display omitted] • Photochemical Oxidation is the main impact category due to CO emissions in carbonization kilns. • Potential to generate 0.19–0.26 MWh of electricity per ton of charcoal through by-products utilization. • Forest residues and insoluble tar increase electricity generation potential by 36%. • Charcoal by-products offset GHG emissions from 14 to 203 kg/ton of charcoal. • Pyroligneous Extract use leads to 6% lower GHG emissions and 47% decrease in abiotic resource consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distributed generation (DG) plays a strategic role in transitioning from a fossil to a renewable energy matrix, encouraging the reduction of energy poverty and access to green energy in traditional communities. This paper proposes a statistical model based on structural equations to analyze the influence of DG on Well-Being (CWB), and to estimate the causal relationships between the latent variables: economic (ECO), environmental (ENV), social (SOC), distributed generation system (DGS) and well-being (CWB) in a rural area in Brazil. The research is carried out in a Quilombola Community located in the south of Brazil. In the data collection process, a questionnaire was used in a Likert scale format, applied in loco to the residents of the Quilombola community. This database was imported into the SmartPLS software for analysis using a partial least squares approach. Structural equation-based modelling (SEM) results confirmed 66% of the hypotheses. The latent variables SOC and DGS directly and positively affected CWB with (β = 0.573) and (β = 0.433), respectively. The Economic variable with (β = 0.396) had a direct and positive effect on the DGS variable, and the DGS variable with (β = 0.404) had an immediate and positive impact on the CWB. The variables observed with the highest participation in the latent variables were: belonging (62%), social capital (31%), greenhouse gases (56%) and incentive policies (45%). The proposed model demonstrates that socioeconomic changes, carried out from specific public policies around the installation of DG, should contribute to the well-being of traditional communities and the reduction of energy poverty. • An analysis of the well-being development of a rural community was done. • For data collection process was used a Likert scale. • Only the social dimension had a direct effect on the well-being of the community. • The designed model demonstrated that the variables are susceptible to changes, influencing on public policies. • DG promotes well-being beyond technical issues and should encourage its installation in rural communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An improved shear test is used to replace the traditional direct shear test to avoid the interference of the traditional direct shear test on AE signal acquisition. • The rock fracture process has an obvious piecewise variation characteristic and a significant increasing period. • The AE data (RA-AF values) collected in Brazil splitting test and improved shear test are coupled to determine the tensile and shear crack boundaries of rock. The mechanical and AE information of the whole process of rock damage and fracture are obtained by uniaxial compression test, Brazil splitting test and improved shear test on marble, granite, limestone and sandstone. The internal relationship between the damage and failure mechanism of brittle rock and AE signal is revealed based on these tests. Moreover, in this paper, the improved shear test is used to replace the traditional direct shear test to avoid the interference of the traditional direct shear test on AE signal acquisition. The experimental results show that the rock fracture process has an obvious piecewise variation characteristic and a significant increasing period. A variety of AE signals are screened by coupling the main frequency and its amplitude, and the values of b and CV (r) can be used as the precursor signals of rock critical failure. Based on KDE method and K-means algorithm, the AE data (RA-AF values) collected in Brazil splitting test and improved shear test are coupled to determine the tensile and shear crack boundaries of four kinds of rocks. Based on the determined boundary of AE data between tensile and shear cracks, the corresponding precursor index CV (r) of rock failure is proposed. When the value of CV (r) increases to more than 1, the rock is close to failure or failure has occurred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freight transport decarbonization is challenging due to the slow implementation of policies to meet climate goals. This paper analyzes the dynamics of the implementation of freight decarbonization measures. A System Dynamics model was developed and applied to the Brazilian freight system to simulate the use of more sustainable modes and means of transport, including electrification, increased use of biofuels, acceleration of fleet renewal, and modal shift. Significant emission reductions are found in the scenarios combining a shift to alternative modes and a rapid phase-out of diesel vehicles. Even so, the Brazilian freight sector's emission budgets towards limiting global warming to 1.5 °C and 2 °C will be depleted during the current and next decade, respectively. An absolute reduction of carbon emissions before 2050 seems unlikely. Besides confirming the need to study the dynamics of the freight system, the findings corroborate the urgency for stronger actions on freight decarbonization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel method forecasts interventions in deteriorating tunnel infrastructures. • Comprehensive tunnel data aids performance assessment. • Brazilian rail tunnel's degradation inspection. • Method reveals links between service levels and geology. • Inspection Digital Twin maps degradation zones, connects with database, enabling continuous digital structural oversight. Civil infrastructures inevitably undergo a degradation process due to extended periods of operation, frequent service requests, and weathering. This paper proposes a methodology for predicting necessary interventions and presents a database of inspection information for tunnels. The model developed correlates performance loss, measured by the tunnel serviceability index (TSI), to defects detected through a 2D grid composed of classified unit cells converted into a virtual representation. To support the framework developed, intervention time estimates were compared to stochastic degradation models presented in the literature. A limit analysis was performed using inverse exponential equations, utilizing data from different sources and supported by a digital representation of the analysis structure. This was done to estimate times with unitary inspection data, deterioration mapping control, and data connection to the developed inspection model. A railway tunnel for ore transport in northern Brazil was selected as a case study to apply the forecast model, as it showed an accelerated deterioration process within a few years of service. The tunnel was divided into four sections that were analyzed using the methodology developed through inspection-sensitive analysis. The section with the lowest service level (TS 1) matched the geological-geotechnical mapping, which indicated a rock mass with high metamorphic grade and susceptibility to weathering agents. The digital model resulted in an inspection digital twin (IDT) prototype that maps the zones with the greatest problems regarding the degradation process. Metadata is assigned to control elements, and there is online connection to a visual database of the tunnel. The target intervention time was set at 16 years by the developed structure, which falls within all forecast intervals calculated by the limit analyses. The inspection DT enables digital monitoring of the structure under analysis, allowing for efficient and optimized management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of the investigations that defined the formation of the sedimentary deposits and the chronological sequence of the Foz do Chapecó archaeological area in the Volta Grande of the Upper Uruguay River, Southern Brazil. This research was undertaken to contribute to the definition of the diachronic, sedimentary and stratigraphic context of the archaeological occupations. To achieve these goals a geoarchaeological prospection by land and water was conducted, focusing on the valley bottoms, in the whole Volta Grande area. It comprehended the characterization of surface sedimentary deposits, the exposure and analysis of stratigraphic profiles, and sedimentological analysis. Four superficially exposed deposits were identified: i.e., fluvial conglomerates, fine sediments with sandy texture, clay colluviums and current and recent alluvial deposits. Six interesting points for the opening of stratigraphic profiles were identified, and subsequently resulted in the identification of sedimentary facies associated with river-bed, colluvial and colluvial-alluvial deposits. Three of these points presented a clear sequence of archaeological levels in the stratigraphic context. The results indicated that the local sediments are predominantly composed of a variable mixture of silt and clay, with sands occurring predominantly in an interdigitated form. The stratigraphic structure of the identified layers led to the establishment of 7 sedimentary facies, associated with colluvium (Cm), colluvium-alluvium (Sm) and alluvium and fluvial channels (Sm, Fl, Gms, Gt, Gp, Gh). The radiocarbon dating gives an age between 12.0 and 0.3 cal kBP, indicating that the filling of the local valley occurred during the end of the Pleistocene and throughout the Holocene by means of both fluvial and colluvial systems. Nine distinct archaeological levels, with a clear stratigraphic, chronological, and technological characterization were identified. The pre-ceramic archaeological sequence shows the following chronology: the oldest occupation occurred between 12.0 and 11.0 cal kBP (Cm facies); this was followed by an occupation between 10.5 and 9.5 cal kBP (Cm, Gt, Gp and Gh facies in three archaeological sites with eleven 14C data), then an occupation between 8.7 and 8.5 cal kBP (Cm facies), another between 5.7 and 5.5 cal kBP, one more between 4.8 and 4.6 cal kBP (Cm facies), and the last between 3.4 and 3.3 cal kBP (Cm and Sm facies). The ceramic phase seems to form a single dense component with the anthropogenic soil formation, and was dated between 0.5 and 0.3 cal kBP (Sm facies). These data present a previously unpublished chronostratigraphic sequence that is unique for the context of open-air sites in inner southern Brazil. • This research presents a unique example of a well-documented archaeological settlement in an open-air, multi-component site situated in a riverine setting in inland Southern Brazil. • It marks the first geoarchaeological study in Southern Brazil's subtropical oxidic environments, utilizing an integrated approach that includes sedimentology, stratigraphy, radiocarbon dating, and the spatial distribution of archaeological features. • The study's sedimentary sequence aids in reconstructing the paleo-environments of the Upper Uruguay River region. • The findings suggest that prehistoric cultural dynamics throughout the Holocene in Southern Brazil were more complex than previously understood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wind power has gained prominence on the world stage, especially in Brazil. In addition to generating energy free of emissions, wind technology is the second cheapest generation option in Brazil. At the same time, it has contributed to reducing hydrological vulnerability caused by climate variation. Although wind power has experienced a steady expansion in the last decade, recent poor outcomes of wind auctions produced uncertainty about the future of this technology in the country. This paper analyses the influence of contract mechanisms used in Brazilian energy auctions for the growth of wind generation. To do this, a scenario analysis based on a hybrid simulation model is used, combining agent-based modelling (ABM) and system dynamics (SD). From the hybrid simulation, the effect of the wind project cancellation policy is analysed, on the one hand, and different ceiling prices for competing sources in the auctions are assessed, on the other. Moreover, the simulation model shows how hydro conditions affect reserve energy auctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are several initiatives towards the science-policy interface and the co-production of knowledge, but there is still few methodological and empirically grounded guidance helping scientists to design and implement research that actively facilitate transformative changes in ocean conflicts. In this paper, we explore the potential of the participatory scenario planning tool in the transformation of a conflict case on small-scale fishing in Brazil. We highlight the lessons learned, potential, and challenges of the scenario planning approach for conflict transformation. Despite being an approach widely applied to coastal and marine environmental and management issues, the scenarios methodology has not been explicitly applied in conflict situations, with the parties in dispute, as we did. Our methodological approach consisted of a previous research stage, based on documental analysis, direct observation of meetings and semi-structured interviews, followed by a participatory scenario planning workshop. Our results show that the participatory scenario planning was able to find the common desires as well as the uncertainties that generated doubts, mistrust, and in many moments disagreements among different groups of stakeholders that were in conflict. Previous research and the employment of multiple methods to build the history of the conflict contributed to legitimate researchers' positionality, to know the parties involved and the power dynamics. We raised some questions to advance the understanding of how the participatory scenarios planning contribute to transforming ocean conflicts in a more critical and politicized view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proposal of a model allocated in fuel station to produce green hydrogen and electricity from ethanol reforming, cogenerated by a SOFC. • Appliable at most fuel station of Brazil already provided with ethanol, establishing new units throughout the country for electricity and hydrogen supplying. • Thermodynamic analysis of the electricity and hydrogen generation, aiming to identify the energy potential and technical viability. • Great opportunity in order to mitigating the usual technical and economics difficult related to storage and transportation of high volumes of hydrogen. A model is presented that hydrogen and electricity are cogenerated by a compact system, regarding operational integration of units of SOFC and Ethanol reformer. This is a model of a simultaneously production of electricity and hydrogen to be applied and allocated strategically in fuel stations, considering the Brazilian conditions that such fuel stations follow marketing and logistics premises that allow to be regularity provided with ethanol biofuel as well are usually near to the consumers. The strategic is the use of the wide network of fuel stations that generally has relevant locations such as urban centers and highways for electricity and hydrogen supply. The objective refers to direct green-hydrogen usage after the processing of ethanol steam reforming, mitigating the usual technical and economics difficult and limitations related to storage and transportation of high volumes of hydrogen that alternatively could be accomplished with ethanol and water, using the proposed model. Concurrently, the same fuel stations would be a green-hydrogen provider, contributing to the reduction of pollution by using ethanol as a biofuel already extremely applied over all the Brazilian territory, attempting to the demands needed. The main novelty of this model refers to combination of three characteristics: (i) high heat produced by the SOFC that could be provided as the energy required for the (ii) endothermic Ethanol reforming, and this fuel is already used throughout (iii) Brazilian territory in fuel stations, which startup to offering also hydrogen and electricity as new products. The full study of this model consists in two papers, that in this first work is presented the thermodynamic analysis, aiming to identify the potential of the energy integration specially related to the SOFC and Reformer functionalities, as a technical feasibility validation. The conclusion of the theoretical results regarding mathematical modelling demonstrates this feasibility, indicating the existence of a minimum energy parity required between SOFC and Ethanol reformer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining operations produce large quantities of tailings that must be handled and stored safely in a technical framework that reconciles economic restrictions and environmental sustainability. Unfortunately, the history of tailings deposits is marked by episodes of catastrophic failures, which is confirmed by the recent tailings dam collapses that occurred in Canada (Mount Polley), Australia (Cadia) and Brazil (Samarco and Brumadinio). Due to this alarming empirical evidence left by the mining industry worldwide, there is international concern and a demand to build these deposits safely from every point of view. In this scenario, the main geotechnical parameter that requires significant attention is the undrained residual shear strength, which is crucial to ensure the physical stability of a tailings dam. The critical state soil mechanic (CSSM) and/or the steady state of deformation provide the conceptual framework for evaluating this strength mobilized by particulate materials. However, despite the fact that these concepts are long established, some important aspects of soil behavior have not been clearly incorporated, which can seriously affect the estimation of the residual undrained shear strength. In this paper the effects of strain rate and reorientation of platy particles in fine-grained soils, the existence of a quasi-steady state (condition of minimum undrained strength) in sandy soils and the limitations of the state parameter are analyzed and discussed. In this context, the main goals are to minimize misjudgments in the estimation of the undrained strength and to introduce an alternative tool, the flow index, I f , to evaluate the susceptibility of the occurrence of flow failure in tailings dams. • The history of tailings deposits is marked by episodes of failures, many of them associated with the occurrence of static liquefaction. • The critical state soil mechanic (steady state of deformation) provides the framework to evaluate static liquefaction. • It is shown that the critical state is more suitable for clayey soils, while the steady state is more useful in sandy soils. • The state parameters do not consider the static shear stress, which in contractive states is responsible for triggering a flow failure. • An alternative state parameter based on the quasi-steady state and the static shear stress is proposed to identify flow failures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paleosols are an under-utilized tool for paleoenvironmental and paleoclimatic reconstruction in Brazilian intracontinental basins. The Itapecuru Formation, from the Lower Cretaceous of the Parnaíba Basin, consists of a 600-m-thick succession of interbedded very fine-to-fine-grained sandstone, mudstone, and paleosols containing rich fossil assemblages. This paper provides a detailed description of the macro and microscopic pedogenic features of a hydromorphic paleosol profile whithin the Itapecuru Formation. Analyses of clay mineralogy and whole-rock geochemistry in the hydromorphic paleosols at the Prata locality are used to infer pedogenic processes, paleoclimate, paleohumidity and paleovegetation. Estimates of paleoprecipitation and paleotemperature using climofunctions, chemical index of alteration without potassium, and paleosol weathering index proxies (PWIs) show values ranging from 810 to 1042 mm/yr (SE = ±78.1 mm/yr) and 10.9 to 11.8 °C (SE = ±0.23 °C), respectively. Climofunction values (MAP and MAT), paleohumidity, Kӧppen aridity index, and pedogenic clay mineral content suggest a humid paleoclimate during soil-forming and weathering processes. Based on these climate data and previously published paleogeographic and palynological studies, the Cretaceous (Albian) Prata pedotype was formed within the equatorial humid belt with vegetation of wet tropical forests. • Alluvial paleosols are characterized in the Parnaíba Basin. • Based on mineralogy and geochemistry analysis, six pedogenic processes were recognized along the Prata pedotype. • Climofunctions values suggest a humid paleoclimate during paleopedogenic modification. • The Albian paleolatitude of Brazil, along with studied climate data, suggests the influence of the Equatorial Humid Belt. • The soil taxonomy following paleoclimate data and pedogenic processes define the Prata pedotype as Ultisol Aquults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diverse and exceptionally preserved fossil association occurs in Campáleo Outcrop black shales of the upper Itararé Group, correlated to the Lontras Member, considered representative of the Pennsylvanian–Permian transition in the Paraná Basin, Brazil. In this paper, we present the palynological records from 20 stratigraphic horizons of these shales and related strata, which revealed 21 taxa of spores, 33 of pollen grains, two species of fungi, one species of Chlorophyceae and two species of Prasinophyceae. The section is correlated to the Vittatina costabilis Zone, due to the records of certain guide species, such as Converrucosisporites confluens , Illinites unicus and several species of Vittatina. An additional subsurface section (TC-4 core) partially correlated with the Campáleo Outcrop and comprising the passage of the Crucisaccites monoletus and Vittatina costabilis palynozones was also studied in order to support the stratigraphic positioning. Once combined with the stratigraphic positioning in the basal portion to the Lontras Shale, it allows us to consider it around the Pennsylvanian–Permian boundary, probably in the Gzhelian to age of the Campáleo Outcrop. We observed distinct palynofloristic compositions from (i) the rhythmic shale with dropstones (basal portion) and from (ii) the fossiliferous black shales (upper portion). The former presents a large dominance (about 90 %) of pollen grains (xerophylous elements) and low frequency (about 7 %) of spores (meso-hygrophylous), while the results of the latter are conversely. Marine palynormorphs were recorded herein only from the rhythmic shale. The palynological assemblages on the base of the Campáleo Outcrop demonstrated a more intense sediment supply, bringing sporomorphs from more distant regions being represented mainly by xerophylic flora, indicating the existence of regions devoid of ice cover, where forests could develop, as occur in seasonal climate regions. The upper level of the Campáleo Outcrop characterizes one of the predominance of spores (hygrophylic communities) in these palynological associations supported by the large number of insects found that indicates proximity to the coastline, little transport (spore tetrads), poor contribution of more distant continental sediments (low expressiveness of pollen grains) and low salinity water, due to the absence of marine palynomorphs, representing a reducing restricted marine environment. This data integrated with the stratigraphic context and other geological data evidenced changes in sea level due to the climatic oscillations in the course of the LPIA that influenced the sediment supply and the distance of the coastline in this region of the Paraná Basin. [Display omitted] • Palynology from a fossil-Lagerstätte section in the Paraná Basin (Campáleo Outcrop) • The Campáleo Outcrop is considered of the age Gzhelian to Pennsylvanian-Permian boundary based on palynological associations • The section is interpreted as part of an epicontinental sea under deglacial conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proposed method to evaluate PV + BESS economic landscape for brazilian dwellings. • Positive impact of adopting a BESS in the PU from the energy perspective. • BESS costs impact economic viability and need government incentive. • Method can be adapted to other scenarios. This paper proposes a methodology to assess the energy and economic impact of adopting small-scale residential photovoltaic (PV) systems paired with lithium-ion battery energy storage (BESS) systems in single-family homes, under the current energy feed-in legislation. The suggested methodology was applied to a case study of a prosumer unit (PU) in Brazil. Data from energy bills, measured PV generation, BESS behaviour, and energy consumption were analysed to compare different viewpoints and estimate key economic indicators. As a result, the PV + BESS combination increases residential users' energy self-consumption and self-sufficiency, resulting in respective increases of 15 % and 2 %. Under the conventional tariff, adopting the PV + BESS system led to an average 29 % reduction in electricity costs compared to scenarios without PV + BESS. Furthermore, by transitioning to the white tariff mode in conjunction with PV + BESS, the PU achieved a 49 % reduction. This result emphasizes the advantages of time-of-use adoption for PV + BESS consumers. A greater discrepancy between tariff periods enhances the feasibility of storing off-peak energy for use during peak periods. Currently, BESS implementation costs impede competitiveness, with attractive LCOS metrics achieved only at costs below $600.00/kWh and MRAs below 9 %. BESS + PV lowers generation costs compared to off-peak rates, increasing the viability of shared usage. Integrating PV + BESS systems with rate switching significantly diminishes electricity expenses. The substantial BESS implementation cost necessitates a noteworthy rate differential for viability, which could potentially impact non-PV and non-BESS consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geothermal energy is now clearly an important option for the Brazilian energy grid due to the demand for renewable energy sources. The northern and central regions of the Paraná Basin (Brazil) were identified as prospects for additional research into the region's geothermal energy potential in this context by prior geothermal studies. A thorough investigation based on geological, geophysical, and thermal data is necessary to identify regions with a high potential for geothermal energy. When used by various authors to execute these tasks, the Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approach built on Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) has shown considerable promise. The weights of the following parameters-rock type, fault proximity, heat flow, magnetic anomaly, and gravimetric anomaly-were determined in this study using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach, which was incorporated into the MCDA. Five favorability maps were created using the data pertaining to these criteria after they had been processed, standardized, and classed. From "very low" to "very high" levels, there were five classes for each selected parameter. From them, we created a map of the geothermal potential based on the list of criteria and the weights assigned to each. In order to verify the findings, we compared the locations of hot springs and aquifers considered indicators of geothermal activity with those of the places with higher potential. Using only one data source, the results showed that four regions had a high index of geothermal favorability, one of which had been previously identified as promising. As a result, the first map produced in the research area using the MCDA-GIS technique is shown in this paper. The strategy proposes a novel way to direct future research to deepen and thoroughly explore these four promising areas. • Geothermal energy gains prominence in Brazil's energy matrices. • Northern & central Paraná Basin offer potential for geothermal energy research, based on prior studies. • MCDA-GIS approach with AHP method proves effective in mapping geothermal favorability. • Hot springs & aquifers compared with high-potential areas validate geothermal activity indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the graphical results of the Lagrangian-model and the weathering processes associated with oil spills in the tropical South Atlantic, taking into account the meteorological and oceanographic conditions of the study region. The scenarios were created in the Brazilian-NE waters adjacent, with simulation times of 670 h, and densities of 35, 25, and 15API with volume of 1590 m3 were considered. The main results showed that the meteo-oceanographic characteristics of the study region influence the trajectories and weathering processes in the oil spill. The trajectories varied for each launch point and reached the continent severely in January and October. The associated weathering processes showed higher rates in September and lower rates in April, indicative of the influence of phenomena such as Intertropical Tropical Convergence Zone and warm pool in the South Atlantic region. Sea surface temperature and wind speed are key factors that correlate positively with these months. [Display omitted] • Evaporation, dispersion and water content in the oil show different temporal patterns in April and September. • Wind intensity, wave energy and SST affect weathering processes. • The trajectories change according to the zonal component towards the continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ocean economy is becoming more than ever a key to job creation, value addition, and sustainable development of countries and regions. Given the growth of the world population and the pressure on onshore resources, the demand for marine resource exploration and maritime activities is growing, leading to different policies around the world. In the case of Brazil, a country with an extensive coastline, there are still few public policies and official definitions/data capable of fostering the ocean economy. Hence, this paper aims to map the sectors of the ocean economy of the state of Rio de Janeiro (SRJ), highlighting its potential for recovery of the local economic dynamics. To this end, the methodology considers the economic sectors that present a direct influence from the sea, encompassing 89 economic activities that were divided into 6 sectors. The treatment, cleaning, graphics, and maps created from R 4.2.2 used the following packages: tidyverse, basedosdados, paletteer, ggthemes, systemfonts, ggtext, sf, geobr. 2021 is the base year for the data, which used two main official Brazilian bases: Annual Social Information Report (RAIS) and tax data from the Internal Revenue Service, compiled by Datalake Neoway. Among the main results, we highlight the relevance of the service sector, particularly those related to the oil and gas industry (P&G) and tourism. • The ocean economy should be taken as a vector of sustainable development in Brazil. • Promoting the ocean economy requires a reformulation of public policies. • There are many industries and stakeholders involved in SRJ's ocean economy. • Like other countries, the service sector stands out in SRJ's ocean economy. • Despite its informality, tourism generates more jobs in SRJ's ocean economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brazil Current (BC) experiences intense mesoscale activity from its origin on the northeastern Brazilian coast till it reaches the Brazil-Malvinas Confluence. The BC meandering behavior near the Cape Santa Marta (27 ° S – 31 ° S), has not been well described in the literature. In this study, in situ observations and satellite images are used to describe the BC meanders and cyclonic eddies near the cape. The results obtained from two Lowered Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (LADCP) sections show that these structures are surface intensified but extend through the whole water column. Conductivity Temperature and Depth (CTD) profiles show evidence of coastal water trapping inside an eddy. Altimeter data show two hot spots of cyclones, one at 28.5 ° S and the other at 30.5 ° S, with an average of ∼ 5 and 7 eddies per year, respectively. The eddies generated on both sites have a mean lifetime of 37 days, and no significant differences were found between their surface properties. Satellite images of chlorophyll show that coastal water horizontal advection is a recurrent phenomenon in these eddies, imprinting an eddy stirring signal into their average composites. Furthermore, using Empirical Orthogonal Functions to analyze the BC flow in a mooring line, we observed that the mesoscales meanders are responsible for explaining at least 1/3 of the flow variability in this area. • Observational data were used to describe the velocity structure of two cyclonic meanders near the Cape Santa Marta (28 ° S). • LADCP measurements showed the importance of barotropicity on these structures. • Satellite data shows two spots of eddies generation, one northward and the other southward of the cape. • CTD casts revealed coastal water trapped in a meander, and satellite images suggest that this is a recurrent phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family Polymixiidae is an ancient group of acanthomorph fish, often regarded as living fossils. Currently, there are 11 valid species allocated in the genus Polymixia , and commonly known as beardfish. All species are benthopelagic and can be found at depths between 80 and 800 meters, in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans. Traditionally, only two species had been assigned to the Atlantic Ocean, P. lowei , in the western Atlantic, and P. nobilis , in the North Atlantic, including northern South America and Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago; however, recent studies revealed a cryptic species from the Bermudas, described as P. hollisterae , and a yet undescribed species from the Caribbean Sea. Herein, we describe a new species of Polymixia from the western South Atlantic, which was previously confused with P. lowei. The new species is supported by both morphological and molecular evidence and can be distinguished among its congeners by a combination of characters, including counts of gill rakers, pyloric caeca, and dorsal-fin rays, arrangement of scales spines, and the shape of preopercle. The new species is distributed on the upper continental slope in Brazil, from Bahia to Rio Grande do Sul, and Uruguay, between 160 and 600 meters deep. • A new species of the living fossil genus Polymixia is described. • Integrative taxonomy reveals a new beardfish from the western South Atlantic. • The Atlantic Ocean harbors a cryptic diversity of the deep-sea genus Polymixia. • Molecular phylogeny reveals allopatric speciation between North and South Atlantic. • Industrial activities and marine litter are threatening Brazilian deep-sea fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]