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Bananas are among the most produced fruits globally, and their industry generates substantial amounts of peels, which are currently underutilized. Therefore, a simple process was proposed to fully convert banana peel powder (BPP) into bioplastic films using mild pretreatments. The influence of the following variables on film performance was investigated: the type of BPP (unblanched versus blanched), the pretreatment solvent (water – i.e., hydrothermal pretreatment, HTP – or sulfuric acid solution – i.e., dilute acid pretreatment, DAP), and the addition or not of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in the films. The tensile properties of the bioplastics were primarily affected by the presence of CMC, with the films containing 20 wt% of this biopolymer achieving a tensile strength up to 16 MPa. The water vapor permeability was not influenced by any of the studied variables. In contrast, the water contact angle was primarily affected by the pretreatment employed , with all films prepared by HTP displaying a hydrophobic surface. The UV-shielding properties of the materials were mainly influenced by the type of BPP, and all films blocked at least 98% of UV radiation. The antioxidant activity was influenced primarily by the type of BPP, as blanching banana peels helped preserve it. These films are, therefore, promising materials for active food packaging applications, which could contribute to a transition toward a circular bioeconomy. [Display omitted] • Bulk banana peels were fast pretreated to produce bioplastic films. • Incorporating carboxymethyl cellulose enhanced the tensile film properties. • Banana peel films exhibited excellent UV-shielding properties. • Boiling banana peels in citric acid solution prevented loss of antioxidant activity. • Antioxidant activity remained strong in banana peel bioplastic films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precision medicine has potentialized with cutting-edge analytical tools based on electrochemical nanobiosensors as an emerging strategy to personalize diagnosing and treating complex diseases such as colorectal cancer (CRC). These nanobiosensors are robust enough solutions that provide rapid and specific readouts for detecting molecular fingerprints, thereby driving personalized healthcare. Improvements in stability, sensitivity, multiplexing, digitalization, automatic data analysis, and the incorporation of low-cost (nano)materials with simple fabrication methods are crucial for introducing these devices into the market. They offer versatile miniaturization and integration into portable point-of-care diagnostic devices, redefining the analytical landscape. This review discusses the principles of CRC precision medicine, exploring smart data from electrochemical nanobiosensing devices and examining their potential for integration into portable and autonomous systems, and massive diagnostic testing analyzed by big data analytics. It highlights CRC biomarkers detection at different molecular levels and disease monitoring at different stages, underlining the need to address the disease comprehensively. [Display omitted] • The potential of precision medicine in the context of colorectal cancer (CRC). • Electrochemical nanobiosensors as a tool for the identification of molecular fingerprints. • Disruptive technologies for the patient stratification of CRC diagnosis and monitoring. • Integration of miniaturized platforms for automated data analysis and decision-making. • Challenges and perspectives on CRC precision medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irazú and Turrialba are a twin volcanic complex that marks a distinct stop in volcanism along the Central America volcanic arc. We present a new traveltime velocity model of the crust beneath Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes, Costa Rica, and interpret it considering the results of previous ambient noise tomographic inversions. Data were acquired by a temporary seismic network during a period of low activity of the Irazú–Turrialba volcanic complex in 2018–2019. Beneath the Irazú volcano, we observe low P -wave velocities (V P = 5 km s−1) and low velocity ratios (V P/ V S = 1.6). In contrast, below the Turrialba volcano, we observe low S -wave velocities (V S = 3 km s−1) and a high V P/ V S (= 1.85) anomaly. We found that locations of low V P and V S anomalies (−15 %) correspond well with shear wave velocity anomalies retrieved from ambient noise tomography. At shallower depths, we observe high V P and V S anomalies (+15 %) located between the summits of the volcanoes. Subvertical velocity anomalies are also observed at greater depths, with high V P and V S anomalies appearing at the lower limits of our models. We propose a complex structure of an intermediate magmatic reservoir, presenting multiphase fluid states of a liquid-to-gas transition beneath Irazú and a juvenile store of magmatic fluid beneath Turrialba, while shallow fluid transport provides evidence of magmatic–hydrothermal interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Storylines of Family Medicine is a 12-part series of thematically linked mini-essays with accompanying illustrations that explore the many dimensions of family medicine as interpreted by individual family physicians and medical educators in the USA and elsewhere around the world. In 'X: standing up for diversity, equity and inclusion', authors address the following themes: 'The power of diversity--why inclusivity is essential to equity in healthcare', 'Medical education for whom?', 'Growing a diverse and inclusive workforce', 'Therapeutic judo--an inclusive approach to patient care', 'Global family medicine--seeing the world "upside down"', 'The inverse care law', 'Social determinants of health as a lens for care', 'Why family physicians should care about human rights' and 'Toward health equity--the opportunome'. May the essays that follow inspire readers to promote change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel composite material based on acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS) and carbon black (CB) was proposed here. Different ratios between CB and ABS (40 : 60–60 : 40 %, w/w) were studied to obtain a substrate with improved electrochemical properties. These materials were characterized by techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopies and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Under the CB/ABS substrate (50 : 50 %, w/w), a lower charge transfer resistance (854 Ω) and a higher heterogeneous electron transfer constant (K0=1.551×10−3 cm s−1) were found, indicating a kinetically more favorable reaction. To improve the electroanalytical performance of the CB/ABS electrode (50 : 50 %, w/w), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were electrodeposited using recycled silver from photographic waste, whose presence was confirmed by SEM imaging and Raman spectra. A method using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) and Pb2+ as model species was developed, where a wider linear working range (4.0 to 40.0 μg L−1) and lower detection limit (0.4 μg L−1) were achieved for the modified electrode. The electrode modification process was highly reproducible (RSD=9.7 %, n=9, inter‐electrode), with precise electrochemical responses (RSD=3.6 %, n=9, intra‐electrode). The applicability was demonstrated in two seawater samples, where recovery levels between 94 and 106 %, as well as statistically similar results to those obtained by atomic absorption spectroscopy, attested to the reliability of the analysis. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that an appropriate selectivity was achieved even in the presence of other metallic species. The proposed composite material is low‐cost, robust, versatile, and can be a promising tool for additive manufacturing of electrochemical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anacondas, genus Eunectes, are a group of aquatic snakes with a wide distribution in South America. The taxonomic status of several species has been uncertain and/or controversial. Using genetic data from four recognized anaconda species across nine countries, this study investigates the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Eunectes. A key finding was the identification of two distinct clades within Eunectes murinus, revealing two species as cryptic yet genetically deeply divergent. This has led to the recognition of the Northern Green Anaconda as a separate species (Eunectes akayima sp. nov), distinct from its southern counterpart (E. murinus), the Southern Green Anaconda. Additionally, our data challenge the current understanding of Yellow Anaconda species by proposing the unification of Eunectes deschauenseei and Eunectes beniensis into a single species with Eunectes notaeus. This reclassification is based on comprehensive genetic and phylogeographic analyses, suggesting closer relationships than previously recognized and the realization that our understanding of their geographic ranges is insufficient to justify its use as a separation criterion. We also present a phylogeographic hypothesis that traces the Miocene diversification of anacondas in western South America. Beyond its academic significance, this study has vital implications for the conservation of these iconic reptile species, highlighting our lack of knowledge about the diversity of the South American fauna and the need for revised strategies to conserve the newly identified and reclassified species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate measurement of joint angles during patient rehabilitation is crucial for informed decision making by physiotherapists. Presently, visual inspection stands as one of the prevalent methods for angle assessment. Although it could appear the most straightforward way to assess the angles, it presents a problem related to the high susceptibility to error in the angle estimation. In light of this, this study investigates the possibility of using a new approach to angle calculation: a hybrid approach leveraging both a camera and LiDAR technology, merging image data with point cloud information. This method employs AI-driven techniques to identify the individual and their joints, utilizing the cloud-point data for angle computation. The tests, considering different exercises with different perspectives and distances, showed a slight improvement compared to using YOLO v7 for angle calculation. However, the improvement comes with higher system costs when compared with other image-based approaches due to the necessity of equipment such as LiDAR and a loss of fluidity during the exercise performance. Therefore, the cost–benefit of the proposed approach could be questionable. Nonetheless, the results hint at a promising field for further exploration and the potential viability of using the proposed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A new carbon-composite material is proposed for the production of affordable sensors. • Carbon nitride provided electrocatalytic properties for the detection of amaranth. • Amaranth is determined for the first time using a 3D-printed electrochemical platform. • The proposed method can be applied to different food samples. • Results similar to those of UV–Vis spectrometry confirmed the method's accuracy. The production of sustainable materials with properties aimed at the additive manufacturing of electrochemical sensors has gained prestige in the scientific scenario. Here, a novel lab-made composite material using graphite (G) and carbon nitride (C 3 N 4) embedded into polylactic acid (PLA) biopolymer is proposed to produce 3D-printed electrodes. PLA offers printability and mechanical stability in this composition, while G and C 3 N 4 provide electrical properties and electrocatalytic sites, respectively. Characterizations by Raman and infrared spectroscopies and Energy Dispersive X-rays indicated that the G/C 3 N 4 /PLA composite was successfully obtained, while electron microscopy images revealed non-homogeneous rough surfaces. Better electrochemical properties were achieved when the G/C 3 N 4 /PLA proportion (35:5:60) was used. As a proof of concept, amaranth (AMR), a synthetic dye, was selected as an analyte, and a fast method using square wave voltammetry was developed. Utilizing the 3D-printed G/C 3 N 4 /PLA electrode, a more comprehensive linear range (0.2 to 4.2 μmol/L), a 5-fold increase in sensitivity (9.83 μmol−1 L μA), and better limits of detection (LOD = 0.06 μmol/L) and quantification (LOQ = 0.18 μmol/L) were achieved compared to the G/PLA electrode. Samples of jelly, popsicles, isotonic drinks, and food flavoring samples were analyzed, and similar results to those obtained by UV–vis spectrometry confirmed the method's reliability. Therefore, the described sensor is a simple, cost-effective alternative for assessing AMR in routine food analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring nitrate in aquatic systems is of fundamental importance since its presence at high levels can result in adverse effects on human health. Thus, in this work, manufactured carbon black (CB)/polylactic acid (PLA)-based 3D-printed electrochemical sensors modified with electrodeposited silver particles (AgPs) for nitrate analysis in real water samples. Raman and FT-IR spectra, scanning electron microscopy images, and analysis by energy-dispersive spectroscopy confirmed the presence of AgPs on the porous carbonaceous surface. The preliminary electrochemical studies showed that using the modified electrode (CB-PLA/AgPs) an incredible increase in the electrochemical response (around 16.5-fold in terms of current density) was obtained for the electroreduction of nitrate at around − 1.08 V vs. Ag|AgCl|KCl(sat.) compared to the unmodified electrode (CB-PLA). The linear sweep voltammetry technique was employed whose instrumental parameters have been carefully optimized. Under optimized conditions, a linear range between 5 and 80 mg L−1 (R2 > 0.99) was achieved, with a detection limit of 2.7 mg L−1, which is below the maximum level permitted (50 mg L−1) by the World Health Organization (WHO). Repeatability (intra-electrode, n = 8) and reproducibility (inter-electrode, n = 3) studies were performed, and RSDs < 2.1% were found, demonstrating good precision of the analysis and reproducible manufacturing process of the sensors. Moreover, the proposed sensor proved to be selective in the presence of other inorganic compounds frequently found in environmental waters. Importantly, in the recovery tests, percentage values between 91 and 117% confirmed the accuracy and reliability of the analyses. Thus, the developed strategy can be useful for nitrate sensing in real water samples in remote locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Low-cost alternative composite sensors using PLA, Al 2 O 3, and graphite. • Al 2 O 3 significantly improves the electrochemical properties of the sensors. • Determination of minoxidil by batch injection analysis is proposed for the first time. • Superior analytical performance than expensive sensors was achieved. • Electrochemical results statistically comparable to the UV–vis spectrometry. The development of new sensors, which are low-cost, portable, and disposable, is currently highly required. In this sense, this work describes a simple way for lab-made fabrication of new composite electrodes exploiting an environmental friendly matrix based on thermoplastic polylactic acid (PLA). Great conductive features were achieved using graphite and aluminum oxide in PLA. The amount of aluminum oxide has been carefully optimized (0 to 12.25 % m/m). The manufacturing process presented reproducibility (between-device % relative standard deviation (RSD) < 7.3). Additionally, the electrode was characterized by electrochemical, spectroscopy, and morphological techniques. Improved cyclic voltammetric responses regarding I pa, I pc, and Δ E p were obtained towards the detection of the redox probes [Fe(CN) 6 ]3-/4- and dopamine using the electrode incorporated with aluminum oxide. Moreover, electrochemical impedance measurements revealed a more facilitated charge transfer process in the alumina-loaded electrode (Rct = 2070 Ω) than without alumina (Rct = 2810 Ω). The developed sensor was associated with batch injection analysis for the simple, fast, and sensitive amperometric monitoring of minoxidil (MXD) in pharmaceuticals, achieving a greater sensitivity with a detection limit of 2.9 µmol/L. A wide linear behavior from 10 to 1000 µmol/L and a between-measurement % RSD of less than 6 were acquired. Also, the method is free of interference from compounds commonly used as excipients in pharmaceutical products. When applied to the pharmaceutical sample, results statistically comparable to the reference method (UV–Vis spectrometry) were achieved, which confirmed the method's accuracy. Thus, the proposed sensor proves to be a powerful alternative tool for MXD monitoring, providing comparable and even better results with other high-cost electrochemical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]