Search

The enhancement of cultural heritage for tourism can greatly benefit from the opportunities offered by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), promoting greater interaction and integration between all stakeholders and service providers. In recent years, ICT applications and platforms have tended to provide a platform to translate the strategic goals and performance metrics of cultural heritage tourism into comprehensive services tailored to stakeholders’ needs by participating stakeholders. A successful co-designed platform integrates explicit services—requiring specialized software tools—and implicit services, facilitating evaluation processes. This adaptability ensures continuous improvement and alignment with evolving strategies and business objectives. As part of the European project, the development of the TExTOUR open ICT platform marks a significant advancement in leveraging technology within cultural tourism. It exemplifies the creation of a sustainable and adaptable framework, co-designed specifically to support and amplify the strategic objectives of cultural heritage tourism. This approach not only fosters better engagement and management within the sector but also sets a new standard for innovation in cultural tourism practices.

Ritonavir is a protease inhibitor initially developed for HIV treatment that is now used as a pharmacokinetic booster for other antiretrovirals due to it being a cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme and P-glycoprotein inhibitor. Consequently, ritonavir is of special interest for repurposing in other diseases. It had an important role in battling the COVID-19 pandemic as a part of the developed drug Paxlovid® in association with nirmatrelvir and has shown effects in hepatitis and other pathogenic diseases. Ritonavir has also shown promising results in overcoming drug resistance and enhancing the efficacy of existing chemotherapeutic agents in oncology. Evidence of cancer repurposing potential was demonstrated in cancers such as ovarian, prostate, lung, myeloma, breast, and bladder cancer, with several mechanisms of action presented. In vitro studies indicate that ritonavir alone can inhibit key pathways involved in cancer cell survival and proliferation, causing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and metabolic stress due to the inhibition of molecules like heat shock protein 90 and cyclin-dependent kinases. Ritonavir also causes resistant cells to become sensitized to anticancer drugs like gemcitabine or docetaxel. These findings indicate that repurposing ritonavir, either on its own or in combination with other medications, could be a promising approach for treating various diseases. This is particularly relevant in cancer therapy, where ritonavir repurposing is the central focus of this review.

Virtual Learning Environments have become innovative tools in health professionals education. Through Massive Open Online Courses, they enable different ways of connecting with knowledge, facilitating study autonomy, interaction, and closer alignment with professional practices and the context of course participants. MOOCs comprise an educational strategy for many fields, including health. As they educate health professionals about a variety of practices, MOOCs play a crucial role in interculturality by enabling professionals to approach cultural diversity in work settings. This study provides a review of the literature investigating the element of interculturality in the production of healthcare-related MOOCs intended for a variety of audiences, including practicing healthcare professionals, healthcare professional trainees, and the general public. Based on a systematic review protocol, we searched for peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and 2023 in Science Direct, PubMed, ERIC, and Scopus. Fifteen studies were selected for final analysis, which highlighted MOOC development, its underlying processes, and its importance in promoting health and social well-being. MOOCs have (1) provided new approaches to technology-mediated learning in distance health education, (2) aided training, (3) disseminated knowledge, and (4) promoted interculturality. Continuous collaboration and innovation in MOOC development are essential to ensure their effectiveness and relevance in the contemporary educational scenario.

This study aimed to evaluate the emergence, early growth, and anatomy of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi cultivated in iron mining tailings. The seeds were obtained from trees used in urban afforestation and cultivated on two substrates: sand and iron mining tailings. The chemical composition of the mining tailing was characterized. The experiment was conducted in a growth room for 60 days. The emergence rate, seedling survival, height, number of leaves, chlorophyll content, and leaf and root anatomy were evaluated. The analysis of the composition of the mining tailings indicated that macro- and micronutrients were present, as well as potentially toxic elements such as Al, Cd, Cr, and Pb. The mining tailings reduced the emergence rate, and 25% of the seedlings died in this substrate. In addition, the mining tailings promoted a significant reduction in all parameters investigated, including seedling height, number of leaves, chlorophyll content, total leaf thickness, abaxial and adaxial epidermis thickness, palisade parenchyma thickness, and the length and width of the seeds. Additionally, the chloroplasts, the metaxylem vessel diameter, and the phloem proportion were evaluated. Interestingly, the tailings promoted an increase in the secretory channel. In the roots, no significant changes were observed in the parameters analyzed. Thus, the seeds of S. terebinthifolia germinated in the iron mining tailings, and 75% of the seedlings survived, showing their potential for reforestation. Nonetheless, iron mining tailings exhibited toxicity to S. terebinthifolia seedlings, reducing their photosynthetic tissues and, consequently, their growth; this toxicity is likely related to potentially toxic elements present in tailings.

In cardiac surgery, poststernotomy pain is a significant issue, peaking within 48 h and requiring proper analgesia for both acute relief and avoidance of chronicization. Opioids are commonly used for pain management postsurgery but pose risks such as adverse effects and dependency. Post-cardiac surgery pain can stem from various sources—somatic, visceral, and neuropathic—making opioid reliance a concern. Multimodal analgesia, which combines different medications and regional anesthesia techniques, is increasingly recommended to decrease opioid use and its related problems. Strategies include acetaminophen, gabapentinoids, NMDA antagonists, alpha-2 agonists, intravenous lidocaine, anti-inflammatory drugs, and regional anesthesia. These approaches can enhance pain control, reduce opioid reliance, and improve cardiac surgery outcomes. The ERAS® Cardiac Society strongly advocates for an opioid-sparing multimodal approach to improve patient recovery by reducing complications and increasing patient satisfaction. This review aims to consolidate current evidence to assist healthcare providers in customizing pain management for patients post-cardiac surgery, emphasizing reduced opioid use and optimizing the recovery process.

Endophytic microorganisms are promising sources for new biocatalysts as they must deal with their host plants’ chemicals by developing adaptative strategies, such as enzymatic pathways. As part of our efforts in selecting endophytic strains as biocatalysts, this study describes the screening of endophytic fungi isolated from Handroanthus impetiginosus leaves for selective bioreduction of Acetophenone. The bioreductions were monitored by chiral gas chromatography and conducted to the selection of the endophyte Talaromyces sp. H4 as capable of reducing acetophenone to (S)-1-phenylethanol in excellent conversion and enantiomeric excess rates. The influence of seven parameters on the stereoselective bioreduction of acetophenone by Talaromyces sp. H4 was studied: reaction time, inoculum charge, shaking, pH, temperature, substrate concentration, and co-solvent. The optimal conditions were then used to reduce substituted acetophenones and Acetophenone scale-up, which furnished (S)-1-Phenylethanol in 73% yield and 96% ee. The results highlight the endophytic fungus Talaromyces sp. H4 as an excellent biocatalyst for stereoselective reduction of prochiral carbonyls.

Background/Objectives: Limited research has been performed to assess the strength of resin-bonded 3D-printed restorations. Based on that, this study investigates the impact of different manufacturing methods on the fracture load of indirect composite restorations (ICRs) following an aging process. Methods: Three manufacturing techniques—conventional (CRC), milled (MRC), and printed (PRC)—were evaluated using 60 specimens, each with a diameter of 10 mm and a thickness of 1.0 mm. Sandblasting with Al2O3 particles was employed to optimize the bonding process, significantly influencing surface roughness parameters (Ra, Rz, RSm). All specimens were bonded to the dentin analog using composite resin cement and subjected to either 10,000 thermocycles (TC) or storage (ST) at 37 °C in distilled water. Fracture load assessments were performed using a universal testing machine. A finite element analysis was conducted to assess stress distribution. Results: Two-way ANOVA results indicated that the manufacturing method significantly affected mean fracture load values (p < 0.001), with PRC showing the highest mean fracture load (4185 ± 914 N), followed by MRC (2495 ± 941 N) and CRC (599 ± 292 N). The aging protocol did not have a significant impact on fracture load. Conclusions: This study revealed that 3D-printed resin composite exhibited comparable strength to milled resin composite when adhesively cemented, suggesting it is a promising option for indirect composite restorations based on its mechanical performance. However, further research is needed to evaluate its bond strength and optimal surface treatment methods to prevent early debonding.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, poses a significant threat to sheep flocks, affecting reproductive performance and meat quality, and leading to economic losses. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies in the serum and colostrum of naturally infected ewes and to assess passive immunity in newborn lambs. Blood and colostrum samples were collected from 162 ewes and 182 lambs across 20 sheep farms in Paraíba, Brazil. Samples were tested for anti-T. gondii and anti-Neospora caninum IgG using indirect fluorescence antibody tests (IFATs), with titers ≥ 1:64 considered positive. Among the ewes, 45.1% tested positive for anti-T. gondii IgG in serum, with titers ranging from 1:64 to 1:16,384. The colostrum from 94.6% of the ewes also tested positive, although 74% had higher titers in their serum than in their colostrum. Concordance between serum and colostrum was high, with a kappa coefficient of 0.950. Lamb serum showed a perfect agreement with maternal colostrum (kappa = 0.962), demonstrating effective passive transfer of antibodies. This study confirms that colostrum is a reliable matrix for detecting anti-T. gondii antibodies and assessing passive immunity in lambs. The high concordance between serum, colostrum, and lamb titers suggests that IFATs on colostrum can be a practical tool for monitoring maternal antibody transfer, contributing to the better management of T. gondii infections in sheep flocks.

(1) Background: We aimed to associate the degree of food processing with blood pressure levels in adult women. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 85 adult women. The participants were subdivided into three groups: normal weight (NW: 27.05%), overweight (OW: 34.1%) and obesity (OB: 38.8%). Their anthropometric parameters, food consumption and blood pressure (BP) were evaluated. The groups were compared using one-way ANOVA or the Kruskal–Wallis test, and correlations were established using Spearman’s correlation, partial correlations (adjusted for age, medications and pathologies) and simple linear regression. Significance was set at p < 0.05. (3) Results: Women with obesity had higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP = NW: 106.5 ± 11.6; OW: 111.60 ± 11.8; OB: 123.63 ± 14.0; p < 0.001 and DBP = NW: 66.5 ± 9.9; OW: 70.2 ± 8.7; OB: 80.6 ± 11.0; p < 0.001) and a lower consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed food (MPF) (NW: 0.25 ± 0.1; OW: 0.27 ± 0.09; OB: 0.21 ± 0.07; p = 0.027). Moreover, we found an inverse association among the consumption of MPF and diastolic blood pressure that remained after adjustments for covariates (r: −0.27; p = 0.01), suggesting that lower consumption of MPF is related to higher levels of DBP. (4) Conclusions: Our data suggest that women with obesity seem to have a lower consumption of MPF. In addition, MPF is negatively correlated with BP, suggesting an association with obesity and cardiovascular health.

Kelp forests are facing a global decline due to climate change and human-induced stressors, underlining the urgency for proactive interventions. Among the most used restoration methods, “green gravel” has emerged as a promising solution for the recovery of degraded kelp forests. While initial findings suggest its potential effectiveness, green gravel remains a novel approach that requires fine-tuned protocols and optimisation across all stages of the process. In this study, we assessed the performance of two different seeding densities for kelp growth on green gravel to optimise the use of seeding material. Our results show that, while the juveniles in the high-density treatment grew faster, they also had a higher mortality rate during green gravel production. This was a hypothesised outcome, as growing sporophytes reared under laboratory conditions allows for faster production of a large number of individuals, increasing competition for space, which may drive higher mortality rates. Comprehensive experimentation is essential to unlock the full potential of green gravel and ensure its efficiency in all process steps, to achieve successful kelp forest restoration. Well-defined and optimised protocols are indispensable for minimising production costs, simplifying logistics, and allowing future efforts to scale up.

This research evaluated the effects of energy supplementation on sheep’s feeding behavior, feed preference, and thermoregulatory responses using technical cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL) and different vegetable oils with different unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) compositions. The experiment was completely randomized with five treatments: a mixture of CNSL (0.5%) + vegetable oils [canola (high in monounsaturated fatty acids—MUFA), and corn, soybean, sunflower, or cottonseed oil (high in polyunsaturated fatty acids-PUFA) at 1.5%] based on total diet dry matter, with eight replications. Forty uncastrated male sheep, with an average initial BW of 24.44 ± 1.5 kg, were evaluated for 70 days. The CNSL + vegetable oil blend did not affect DM and neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) intake (p > 0.05). However, diets with canola oil resulted in higher SFA intake (p < 0.05) than other oils. The canola oil + CNSL blend led to a higher intake of UFA and MUFA and lower PUFA intake than other oil blends (p < 0.05). Sheep fed canola oil ruminated fewer boli per day than those fed soybean and sunflower oils. Using three sieves (pef1.18) reflected in higher sheep aNDF intake. Respiratory frequency and surface temperature of sheep were lower before feeding than 3 h after, without effects of the type of oil. Higher serum creatinine and cholesterol levels were observed in sheep fed CNSL with corn and canola oils compared to other oils. Serum calcium was lower in sheep fed CNSL with soybean and canola compared to sunflower and corn. Including CNSL with vegetable oils with different FA compositions did not affect physiological and thermographic variables. However, sheep showed better diet selectivity and lower bolus rumination with higher MUFA (canola oil) content. Including CNSL with canola oil in sheep diets is recommended, as it increases dietary energy content, enhances diet selectivity, reduces PUFA intake, and does not impact animal health.

Background: The long-term success of dental implants largely depends on achieving primary stability, previously described as crucial to obtaining osseointegration and immediate loading protocol requirements. Implant thread depths seem to be one of the key factors influencing primary stability, particularly in low-density bone. Insertion torque (IT) and resonance frequency analysis (RFA) are considered the most reliable tests to assess primary stability. The aim of this work was to evaluate how different thread depths of commercially available dental implants affect primary stability in low-density D3 bone. Materials and Methods: An in vitro study was carried out between February 2024 and March 2024. Twenty-four dental implants were divided into four groups (six implants each) according to their thread depths (Group A: 4 mm, Group B: 4.5 mm, Group C: 5 mm, Group D: 5.5 mm) and were inserted in D3-type artificial bone blocks. The main outcome variables were the IT and the Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) measured in four different areas of the implant (buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal) with an Osstel® ISQ reader. Descriptive and inferential analyses of the data were performed, and the significance value was set at 5%. Results: A total of 24 implants were analyzed. The highest IT values were obtained in Group D, with a mean of 54.03 Ncm (standard deviation (SD) = 8.99), while the lowest measurements were observed in Group A (mean = 25.12; SD: 2.96 N.cm). The mean ISQ values were consistently higher in Group D for each analyzed area, with a mean of 70.13 N.cm (SD = 1.12). Conclusions: Taking into consideration the limitations of this in vitro study, greater thread depths seem to increase the primary stability of dental implants placed in soft bone. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between all IT and ISQ values, regardless of the thread depth.

Taking into account the growing increase in the political and social interest in childbirth, it is critical to identify and explore the instruments that allow and enhance its humanization today. The use of vocalization seems to be a powerful and empowering tool for a positive birthing experience when used by women in labour. A scoping review will be developed to map the evidence and knowledge about women’s vocalization in the first and second stages of labour using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search will be carried out on the Web of Science, EBSCOhost Research Platform (selecting Academic Search Complete, MedicLatina, Cinahl plus with full text, Medline with full text), Willey Online Library, PubMed and Scopus. The National Register of Theses and Dissertations and the Open Scientific Repository of Portugal will also be taken into account. Three reviewers will conduct data analysis, extraction and synthesis independently. The outcomes pretend to be a source for identifying the use of vocalization by women in labour, in order to guide further research on the subject. This study was prospectively registered with the Open Science Framework on the 21 May 2024, with registration number DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/Z58F4.

This review aims to enhance the understanding of the fundamentals, applications, and future directions in hydrogen production techniques. It highlights that the hydrogen economy depends on abundant non-dispatchable renewable energy from wind and solar to produce green hydrogen using excess electricity. The approach is not limited solely to existing methodologies but also explores the latest innovations in this dynamic field. It explores parameters that influence hydrogen production, highlighting the importance of adequately controlling the temperature and concentration of the electrolytic medium to optimize the chemical reactions involved and ensure more efficient production. Additionally, a synthesis of the means of transport and materials used for the efficient storage of hydrogen is conducted. These factors are essential for the practical feasibility and successful deployment of technologies utilizing this energy resource. Finally, the technological innovations that are shaping the future of sustainable use of this energy resource are emphasized, presenting a more efficient alternative compared to the fossil fuels currently used by society. In this context, concrete examples that illustrate the application of hydrogen in emerging technologies are highlighted, encompassing sectors such as transportation and the harnessing of renewable energy for green hydrogen production.

Thyroid gland carcinoma (TGC), though only 1% of all carcinomas, is the most common endocrine neoplasm with an increasing incidence since the 1990s. Of the TGC types, papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common and has the best overall prognosis. Although primarily studied in various neural spectrum disorders, monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) may also contribute to cancer occurrence. This case control study assessed the prevalence of MAOA uVNTR polymorphism in PTC patients, compared its frequency with a healthy control, and assessed the variant’s impact on clinical features. The research participants consisted of 30 PTC patients (20 female, 10 male) over 18 years old who underwent thyroidectomy and radioiodine therapy at a Federal District private clinic and 30 paired and unrelated healthy volunteers (18 female, 12 male). The most frequent MAOA uVNTR alleles were 3R and 4R. Although no significant difference was detected in the genotypic distribution nor the PTC patients’ thyroglobulin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and antithyroglobulin levels; body mass indexes; administered radiopharmaceutical (131I) doses; or biological sex, the presence of at least one 3R allele was associated with a larger tumor size (T3 + T4 staging). Thus, the 3R allele seems to be associated with PTC pathogenesis severity.

Chemical desiccation is widely used in agriculture to anticipate harvest and mitigate the effects of adverse environmental conditions. It is applied to both grains and seeds. Although this practice is widely used, there are still significant gaps in understanding the effects of different herbicide application times on seed quality and plant physiological responses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different herbicide application times on cowpea, focusing on seed quality, physiological responses, and biochemical composition, including chlorophylls, carotenoids, sugars, and proline, under nocturnal desiccation. In the first experiment, eight herbicides and two mixtures were applied at night: diquat, flumioxazin, diquat + flumioxazin, glufosinate ammonium, saflufenacil, carfentrazone, diquat + carfentrazone, atrazine, and glyphosate. All of the tested herbicides caused a reduction in normal seedling formation, with the diquat + carfentrazone combination resulting in 100% abnormal seedlings. A significant decrease in chlorophyll levels (chlorophyll a: 63.5%, chlorophyll b: 50.2%) was observed using diquat, which indicates damage to photosynthetic processes, while the carotenoid content increased. Total soluble sugars and proline were also negatively impacted, reflecting physiological stress and metabolic changes in seedlings. In the second experiment, three application times were tested with diquat, diquat + flumioxazin, and diquat + carfentrazone. Nocturnal application showed the most significant reduction in chlorophyll levels and increased carotenoid levels. Application at noon and late afternoon also significantly changed the soluble sugar and proline levels. These results indicate that the herbicide application time directly influences the seeds’ physiological quality.

Aging is a complex process inherent to and inevitable in humans. With life expectancy rising, there are concerns about the senior population’s wellbeing, and a hope of preventing certain diseases such as cardiovascular diseases. To achieve it, this study resorts to the implementation of an interventional program based on the comprehensive geriatric assessment model [AGA@4life]. The aim is to evaluate the effect of a new nutritional and exercise regime and evaluate possible changes in nitric oxide (NO) metabolites and endothelin 1 (ET-1). An intervention study was developed with 17 participants with ages of 65 and above. They were evaluated in the beginning [T0] and after eight weeks [T1], where NO metabolites and ET-1 levels were determined by enzymatic assays and the slot blot technique, respectively. There was a significant decrease in ET-1 levels in both the control (p < 0.001) and intervention (p = 0.04) groups from T0 to T1, but there was only a tendency for a decrease in the NO metabolite’s levels in the same conditions [p > 0.05]. Even though the NO metabolite levels did not increase as expected, possibly because of an increase in oxidative stress, the ET-1 levels decreased as expected and the overall results are promising, proving this program could have a beneficial effect on the geriatric population.

The use of antibiotics in poultry farming has been associated with bacterial resistance in humans, leading to a ban on their inclusion in chicken diets. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the effects of probiotics and β-mannanase on the growth performance and intestinal health of broiler chickens challenged by Eimeria maxima and Clostridium perfringens. For this, 2100 one-day-old male Ross 308 chicks were used. The treatments were as follows: T1—Negative control (NC) unchallenged birds; T2—Positive control (PC) challenged with E. maxima + C. perfringens; T3—PC + Antibiotic (Enramycin 8%-125 g/ton); T4—PC + β-mannanase (HemicellHT; 300 g/ton); T5—PC + probiotic (ProtexinTM; 150 g/ton); T6—PC + β-mannanase + probiotic. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed from 1 to 42 days in the variables body weight, body weight gain and feed intake, and the NC treatment presented higher values compared to the PC and PC + probiotic groups. The villus/crypt ratio in the duodenum increased in the PC + β-man + prob treatment, differing from the NC, PC and PC + probiotic (p < 0.05) treatments. The use of β-mannanase, probiotics or both together is effective to mitigate the effects of production challenges, through the maintenance of the intestine by modulating action on the cecum microbiome and intestinal morphometry.

Gardnerella vaginalis is a Gram-variable bacillus capable of causing bacterial vaginosis, a condition prevalent in reproductive-age women, this bacterium is present in almost 100% of cases and is also considered a gateway to various sexually transmitted infections. This organism exhibits high pathogenicity linked to virulence and resistance genes acquired throughout evolution, showcasing elevated resistance to a broad spectrum of drug classes. This study conducted comparative genomic analyses to identify these genes and correlate their presence with positive Darwinian selection. Additionally, new drug targets were selected through docking and molecular modeling, guided by the heightened antimicrobial resistance exhibited by this microbial species. The available genomes of G. vaginalis were analyzed, and the orthologous genes were delineated and positively selected, whereby 29 groups were found. Of these genes, one of great importance was predicted, Mef(A), which is related to resistance to the macrolide group of antibiotics, which are one of the main choices for the treatment of sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, two potential protein candidates were selected as drug targets. These proteins were linked with a natural compound each and are considered good potential drug targets. The analyses in this study contribute to analyzing the evolution of the species and how resistance genes are related to their permanence as a potential pathogen.

Identifying bird numbers in hostile environments, such as poultry facilities, presents significant challenges. The complexity of these environments demands robust and adaptive algorithmic approaches for the accurate detection and tracking of birds over time, ensuring reliable data analysis. This study aims to enhance methodologies for automated chicken identification in videos, addressing the dynamic and non-standardized nature of poultry farming environments. The YOLOv8n model was chosen for chicken detection due to its high portability. The developed algorithm promptly identifies and labels chickens as they appear in the image. The process is illustrated in two parallel flowcharts, emphasizing different aspects of image processing and behavioral analysis. False regions such as the chickens’ heads and tails are excluded to calculate the body area more accurately. The following three scenarios were tested with the newly modified deep-learning algorithm: (1) reappearing chicken with temporary invisibility; (2) multiple missing chickens with object occlusion; and (3) multiple missing chickens with coalescing chickens. This results in a precise measure of the chickens’ size and shape, with the YOLO model achieving an accuracy above 0.98 and a loss of less than 0.1. In all scenarios, the modified algorithm improved accuracy in maintaining chicken identification, enabling the simultaneous tracking of several chickens with respective error rates of 0, 0.007, and 0.017. Morphological identification, based on features extracted from each chicken, proved to be an effective strategy for enhancing tracking accuracy.

Agricultural cargo vehicles are responsible for applying severe soil pressures. However, the ground straw cover can attenuate the loads applied by wheels to the soil surface. This research evaluated the effect of three tires, p1—Radial Very Flex, p2—Radial Improved Flex, and a p3—Bias Ply tire, on three amounts of straw on the soil surface (0, 15, and 30 Mg ha−1). We adopted a completely randomized design (CRD) with a rigid surface for three replications for the total contact area and punctual area claws. The soil bin test verified the deformable surface, tread marks, and soil penetration resistance (SPR). The tire’s claw design determines its punctual contact area, and the construction model determines the total contact area. The contact area in the soil bin increased linearly due to a increase in straw covering, reducing sinkage; p2 to 30 Mg ha−1 straw shows the most significant contact area, p1 and p3 showed no difference. A straw increase from 0 to 30 Mg ha−1 increased the contact areas by 25.5, 38.0, and 20.0% for p1, p2, and p3, respectively. Compared to the rigid surface, the p1 and p3 contact areas in the soil bin increased 6.2, 6.8, and 7.8 times in bare soil, 15, and 30 Mg ha−1; for p2, this increase was up to 4.2, 4.5, and 5.9 times on the same surfaces. Keeping the straw on the soil improves its physical quality by reducing the SPR, so the straw has a buffer function in the wheel–soil relationship.

Nitrogen fertilization is one of the main management strategies for continuous pasture management with high productivity. We examined the effects of nitrogen fertilization on the morphogenic, structural, and tillering dynamic characteristics of Tanzania grass in the Amazon region in the state of Pará, Brazil. The study was conducted using a randomized block design with six treatments (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 kg N ha−1 year−1) and five replicates. The treatments were performed during the rainy season in 2016 and 2017 using urea as the nitrogen source. The leaf elongation rate was increased by 68.5% compared with that of the control treatment (p < 0.01). The leaf appearance rate and number of alive leaves increased with higher doses of nitrogen (p < 0.01, each). The regrowth period was reduced by approximately 13 days under 500 kg N ha−1 (p < 0.01), thus providing more production cycles. Nitrogen fertilization was also associated with a higher tillering rate (p < 0.01); however, the rate of this increase decreased with increasing nitrogen dose. Higher nitrogen doses thus improved the development of Tanzania grass; however, this became less pronounced at doses < 300 kg N ha−1.

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects approximately 100,000 people in the United States and millions worldwide, with the highest prevalence of 70% of SCD being found in individuals of African ethnicity. Delayed hemolytic, alloimmunization, and anamnestic transfusion reactions in multiple transfusion patients need to be investigated and managed to avoid a worsening of the patient’s clinical status. Objective: This paper aims to investigate delayed transfusion reactions in SCD patients who were polytransfused in the Brazilian Amazon. Material and Methods: The clinical and laboratory indicators of SCD patients with more than four transfusions were investigated. The patients were treated at the Fundação Hospitalar de Hematologia e Hemoterapia do Estado do Amazonas, Brazil. Results: A total of 44 polytransfused patients with SCD were followed. Regarding Rh phenotype, it was possible to observe a frequency of 26.6% (12) patients with the RZRZ (DCE/DCE) phenotype, in addition to 4.5% (two) patients with RH and RHCE variants. It was also possible to observe 20.5% (nine) patients with an alloimmunization reaction, who presented the following alloantibodies: anti-RhD, anti-E, anti-K, anti-Jkb, anti-N, anti-S, and anti-Dia, two of which are unidentified. Of these, four (44.4%) patients also presented autoantibodies, anti-e, and three unidentified antibodies, and four (44.4%) patients presented an anamnestic reaction, with anti-RhD, K, and Jkb antibodies. Of the 44 patients monitored, 54.4% (24) had clinical and laboratory indicators of a delayed hemolytic reaction. Conclusion: Delayed transfusion reactions, often neglected, occur frequently. Therefore, transfusions need to be monitored for at least 28 days, with medical investigation of clinical and laboratory indicators to make greater use of this therapeutic resource.

Minicutting has been used for several woody species, presenting greater efficiency than propagation by conventional cutting due to its high yield of propagative material and higher percentage of rooting in minicuttings. This work was carried out to evaluate the efficiency of minicutting techniques for the ‘Bluegem’ blueberry and find the best concentration of IBA for rooting the minicuttings. The minigarden was installed in pots using micropropagated plants. Four collections of minicuttings were carried out between 27 October 2020 and 12 April 2021, and received the following treatments: 0; 2000; 4000; 6000; and 8000 mg L−1 of IBA. The minicutting was carried out in a mist chamber and evaluated after 60 days. The yield of minicuttings increased from the first to the third collection, decreasing in the fourth collection when the plants began to enter dormancy. The rooting of the minicuttings was influenced by the collection time and the application of IBA. Increasing IBA concentration increased the percentage of rooted minicuttings and root dry mass to concentrations close to 5000 mg L−1 on almost all collection dates. High concentrations of IBA reduced the percentage of sprouted minicuttings and leaf retention and increased mortality. It is recommended for the ‘Bluegem’ blueberry minicutting to apply 5000 mg L−1 of IBA.

(1) Background: A low socioeconomic status significantly increases the risk of hypertension and its associated cardiovascular diseases due to limited access to healthcare and may be even more accentuated by the presence of unhealthy lifestyle habits. The aim of the present research was to study if associations exist between having a family income under the poverty threshold and having an unhealthy diet, being physically inactive, being an alcohol drinker, perceiving one’s own health as bad, and suffering from congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, heart attack, or stroke. Additionally, the odds ratios of having these unhealthy habits and of suffering from the abovementioned cardiac complications of participants under the poverty threshold were calculated. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2020. The sample comprised 6120 adults with hypertension (3188 males and 2932 females). A descriptive analysis and non-parametric chi-squared tests were used to study the associations. A binary logistic regression model and backward LR method were used to calculate the odds ratios, normalized by age and sex. (3) Results: The chi-squared test showed associations between having a family income under the poverty threshold and being physically inactive (p < 0.001), having an unhealthy diet (p < 0.001), being an alcohol drinker (p < 0.001), perceiving one’s own health as bad (p < 0.001), and suffering from congestive heart failure (p = 0.002), heart attack (p = 0.001), or stroke (p = 0.02). A significantly increased odds ratio for these unhealthy habits and cardiac complications, and also for having coronary heart disease and angina pectoris, were found for hypertension sufferers under the poverty threshold. (4) Conclusions: It was confirmed that having a family income under the poverty threshold is associated with perceiving one’s own health as bad, having a series of negative habits in terms of physical activity, diet, and alcohol consumption, and with suffering from congestive heart failure, heart attack, or stroke. Increased odds ratios for these unhealthy habits and these conditions, plus coronary heart disease and angina pectoris, were found for hypertension sufferers under the poverty threshold.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies have been widely applied to tackle Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) challenges, from diagnosis to prevention. Patents are a valuable source for understanding the AI technologies used in the COVID-19 context, allowing the identification of the current technological scenario, fields of application, and research, development, and innovation trends. This study aimed to analyze the global patent landscape of AI applications related to COVID-19. To do so, we analyzed AI-related COVID-19 patent metadata collected in the Derwent Innovations Index using systematic review, bibliometrics, and network analysis., Our results show diagnosis as the most frequent application field, followed by prevention. Deep Learning algorithms, such as Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), were predominantly used for diagnosis, while Machine Learning algorithms, such as Support Vector Machine (SVM), were mainly used for prevention. The most frequent International Patent Classification Codes were related to computing arrangements based on specific computational models, information, and communication technology for detecting, monitoring, or modeling epidemics or pandemics, and methods or arrangements for pattern recognition using electronic means. The most central algorithms of the two-mode network were CNN, SVM, and Random Forest (RF), while the most central application fields were diagnosis, prevention, and forecast. The most significant connection between algorithms and application fields occurred between CNN and diagnosis. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the technological landscape involving AI and COVID-19, and we hope they can inform future research and development’s decision making and planning.

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has made several environmental impacts, resulting in the significant siltation of water bodies due to the deposition of sediments on riverbanks. Based on this perspective, this study aims to investigate the water bodies and regions most impacted by mining activities, especially in relation to the increase in the Total Suspended Solids (TSS) caused by ASGM, focusing on the territories of Suriname and French Guiana, over the period from 2017 to 2023, through the creation of an algorithm in Google Earth Engine. This research also aims to map and describe active mining in this region using the Classification and Regression Tree (CART) method, which achieved an overall accuracy of 82% and a kappa index of 0.77. The results reveal that from 2017 to 2024, there was an increase of 148.09 km2 in mining, with an average increase in TSS of up to 167 mg/L in water bodies most affected by mining activities. Finally, the continued importance of using remote sensing technologies, such as GEE, together with innovative methodological approaches, to monitor and manage natural resources in a sustainable manner is highlighted.

This research investigates the exposure of plant species to extreme drought events in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, employing an extensive dataset collected from 205 automatic weather stations across the region. Meteorological indicators derived from hourly data, encompassing precipitation and maximum and minimum air temperature, were utilized to quantify past, current, and future drought conditions. The dataset, comprising 10,299,236 data points, spans a substantial temporal window and exhibits a modest percentage of missing data. Missing data were excluded from analysis, aligning with the decision to refrain from using imputation methods due to potential bias. Drought quantification involved the computation of the aridity index, the analysis of consecutive hours without precipitation, and the classification of wet and dry days per month. Mann–Kendall trend analysis was applied to assess trends in evapotranspiration and maximum air temperature, considering their significance. The hazard assessment, incorporating environmental factors influencing tree growth dynamics, facilitated the ranking of meteorological indicators to identify regions most exposed to drought events. The results revealed consistent occurrences of extreme rainfall events, indicated by positive outliers in monthly precipitation values. However, significant trends were observed, including an increase in daily maximum temperature and consecutive hours without precipitation, coupled with a decrease in daily precipitation across the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. No significant correlation between vulnerability ranks and weather station latitudes and elevation were found, suggesting that geographical location and elevation do not strongly influence observed dryness trends.

Background: Airway clearance impairment has a significant impact on self-care and quality of life. Identifying clinical data, nursing diagnoses, and nursing interventions is essential to clinical reasoning and enhancing nursing care. This study aims to map the existing evidence on clinical data, nursing diagnoses, and nursing interventions addressing the nursing focus on “airway clearance”. Methods: Research was conducted based on Joanna Briggs’s Scoping Review Methodology. We searched four databases for published studies until December 2023. Results: From the initial 1854 studies identified, 123 were included in the review. The findings highlighted two areas of nursing attention: one related to signs and symptom management, and the other related to education and coping strategies. The data that led to nursing diagnoses were divided into cognitive and clinical data. The nursing diagnoses were mostly related to secretion retention, excessive mucus production, and airway obstruction. The most commonly identified nursing interventions were educational interventions assembled into predesigned education programs rather than patient-tailored programs. Conclusions: Findings can add substantial value for systematizing the nursing process related to “airway clearance”, improving nursing decision-making and care quality. This study was prospectively registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF) on 02 December 2022, with the registration number wx5ze.

A stroke is a time-sensitive emergency, so diagnosing and treating the victim promptly is extremely important. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the influence of the Stroke Code Protocol’s activation on the door-to-computed-tomography (door-to-CT) time and determine whether factors such as previous Modified Rankin Scale (mRS), age, and gender influence its activation. A retrospective study was conducted in a Medical-Surgical Emergency Department in the centre of Portugal from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2022. The sample was selected according to the diagnosis assigned at the time of clinical discharge from the Emergency Department and the Stroke Code Protocol activation criteria. It was observed that 113 (50%) suspected stroke victims who met the activation criteria for the Stroke Code Protocol did not have the protocol activated, which had a highly significant influence (p < 0.001) on door-to-CT time. It was determined that activation at triage has an average door-to-CT time of 35 ± 18 min, post-triage activation has an average door-to-CT time of 38 ± 26 min, and non-activation has an average door-to-CT time of 1 h 04 ± 45 min. The need to implement an institutional protocol for activating the Stroke Code Protocol and provide specialised training for the multidisciplinary team is reiterated.

Background: A robust safety culture is essential for ensuring high-quality healthcare delivery. From a nursing perspective, especially among critical patients, it fosters ongoing improvement by highlighting areas that need attention. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the perception of patient safety culture among nurses within the critical care environment. Methodology: An observational study was conducted at a central hospital in Portugal employing the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSPSC) questionnaire. Results: The study encompassed 57, nurses predominantly female (73.7%), aged 25–64. Most participants were general nurses (77.2%), with a significant proportion (61.4%) working in the emergency department and possessing an average tenure of 13 years at the facility. The perception of critical patient safety culture (CPSC) was predominantly positive (40.6%), varying by department, with intensive care nurses reporting the highest positivity rates. Teamwork was identified as a strong point, receiving 80.7% positivity, highlighting it as a well-established domain in the CPSC, whereas other domains were recognised as requiring enhancements. Conclusions: The study pinpointed both strengths and weaknesses within the CPSC, offering a foundation for developing targeted strategies to bolster patient safety culture in critical care settings.

Objective: The goal of this systematic review was to identify the mechanisms associated with the enzymatic degradation of collagen and gelatin biomaterials and the possible associated flaws. Methods: Four databases (PubMed, B-On, Cochrane Library, and ResearchGate) were used for the bibliographic search of articles. The research question was formulated using the PCC method, (P): collagen or gelatin sponges, hydrogels, and scaffolds; concept (C): enzymatic degradation of collagen or gelatin sponges, hydrogels, and scaffolds; and context (C): effect of enzymatic action on degradation time of collagen or gelatin sponges, hydrogels, and scaffolds. The search was contextualized according to PRISMA recommendations. The identification and exclusion of evidence followed the PRISMA criteria, with specific inclusion and exclusion factors being stipulated for the selection of articles. The risk of bias assessment was performed using the QUIN Scale. Results: The initial search was composed of 13,830 articles after removing duplicates; 56 articles followed for the full-text reading; 45 were excluded; then, 11 articles were obtained, constituting the results of this systematic review. All studies evaluated the materials using gravimetric analysis, and collagenases were the proteases used for the degradation solution. The materials tested were as follows: human-like collagen (HLC) hydrogel with microbial transglutaminase (MTGase), gelatin sponges subjected to different types of crosslinking, and collagen scaffolds with different types of crosslinking. The period of analysis varied between 0.25 h and 35 days. It was possible to highlight the lack of uniformity in the protocols used, which varied largely, thus influencing the degradation times. The risk of bias was low in nine studies and medium in two studies. Conclusions: This systematic review identified a gap in the literature, highlighting the absence of in vitro studies using human saliva and a collagenase concentration close to the physiological levels to simulate oral dynamics. However, based on existing literature, the mechanisms associated with collagen enzymatic degradation in collagen and gelatin biomaterials were comprehensively understood, answering the first research question postulated. In response to the second research question, the main shortcomings identified in the laboratory evaluation of mechanisms associated with collagen enzymatic degradation in collagen and gelatin biomaterials included the lack of standardization in degradation test protocols; this limited inter-study comparisons, which increased heterogeneity. Additionally, variations in collagenase concentrations and types influenced collagen degradation rates, and inappropriate evaluation intervals hindered the identification of total degradation time.

We present descriptions of two newly discovered species of Myxobolus (Myxobolidae) that infect Mugil curema: Myxobolus mundauensis n. sp. found in gills and Myxobolus patriciae n. sp. found in intestines. These descriptions are based on the morphology of myxospores, histological analysis, and sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal DNA (ssrDNA). The myxospores of both species differ in the width and length of their spore bodies, and their ssrDNA sequences showed a 10.6% difference. These findings support the identification of these parasites as distinct and previously unknown species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a subclade consisting of species that parasitize Mugiliformes, with Myxobolus mundauensis n. sp. being closely related to Myxobolus maceioensis, and Myxobolus patriciae n. sp. being closely related to Myxobolus curemae. Our analysis aligns with previous research suggesting a strong correlation between host orders and phylogenetic patterns within the Myxobolidae family.

Participatory design emerges as a proactive approach involving different stakeholders in design and decision-making processes, addressing diverse values and ensuring outcomes align with users’ needs. However, the inadequacy of engaging stakeholders with a spatial experience can result in uninformed and, consequently, unsuccessful design solutions in a built environment. This paper explores how metaverse tools can help enhance participatory design by providing new collaborative opportunities via networked 3D environments. A hybrid format (online and in situ) co-creation process was documented and analysed, targeting public space design in London, Hong Kong, and Lisbon. The participants collaborated to address a set of design requirements via a tailored metaverse space, following a six-step methodology (Tour, Discuss, Rate, Define, Action, and Show and Tell). The preliminary results indicated that non-immersive metaverse tools help strengthen spatial collaboration through user perspective simulations, introducing novel interaction possibilities within design processes. The technology’s still-existing technical limitations may be tackled with careful engagement design, iterative reviews, and participants’ feedback. The experience documented prompts a reflection on the role of architects in process design and mediating multi-stakeholder collaboration, contributing to more inclusive, intuitive, and informed co-creation.

Agricultural tractors are an essential agricultural power source. Therefore, the scientific literature tests have described agricultural tractors’ evolution over time and determined future trends. This paper uses bibliometric tools to assess the agricultural evolution of tractor testing from 1969 to 2022 to ascertain the publication’s scientific perspective on operational, ergonomic, and energy performance. We searched for relevant research in the Scopus and Web of Science (WOS) databases. The data were processed in RStudio software version 4.4.1, and we used elaborated bibliometric maps to research evolution, major journals, studies, countries, and keywords. The first research mainly concerned the development of new wheelsets, more efficient engines, and fuel consumption prediction models. After the 2000s, environmental protocols contributed to increasing publications on biofuels and renewable energies. Recently, an intense process of robotization in autonomous vehicles has improved to allow the replacement of combustion engines. Ergonomics and safety have been less recurrent topics in recent years, indicating a stable level in the actual research. New machine control models involving artificial intelligence are currently applied to obtain test results without using the machine in the field. These virtual models reduce costs and optimize resources. The most common terms were “tractor” and “agricultural machinery”. The terms “Electric tractor”, “agricultural robots”, and “Matlab” indicate solid trends for future research.

At the time of colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis, approximately 25% of patients present with liver metastases, and 70% develop them during follow-up. This is the primary cause of therapeutic failure and most associated deaths, making it imperative to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in this process and the biological components involved. In the process of anaerobic glycolysis occurring in these cells, to maintain cellular homeostasis, excess lactate is removed via monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). This study aimed to characterize monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4), human glucose transporter protein isoform 1(GLUT1), cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147), and the acidic cell surface adhesion protein (CD44) in various cellular and histological compartments of liver metastases from CRC in 45 patients diagnosed with metastatic CRC. The characterization revealed significant correlations between the compartmentalization of these markers and the patients’ clinicopathological data. The findings for MCT4, GLUT1, CD147, and CD44 obtained in this study are very promising in relation to considering these markers as therapeutic targets in further investigations.

Endocarditis is a severe infection affecting the heart’s inner layer, the endocardium. Its pathophysiology may involve heart valve damage, bacteria adhesion and biofilm formation, potentially leading to fatal complications. Bacteria from various sources, including from endodontic diseases and its treatments may enter the bloodstream provoking this condition. This systematic review aimed to explore the influence of endodontic factors on endocarditis. Searches across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and manual sources yielded 14 relevant articles from 1562 screened studies. Assessment platforms from JBI Critical Appraisal Tools evaluated studies biases. Findings mainly focused on transient bacteraemia as a key indicator of risk correlating bacterial virulence and counts with endocarditis development. Worryingly, multi-species bacteraemia post-endodontic treatment was noted including the genera Enterococcus, Parvimonas, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. Conclusive validation of the incidence and association between endodontic patients and endocarditis was limited due to a lack of robust longitudinal investigations, such as randomized controlled trials. This emphasizes the need for further research with well-designed methodologies to provide a full understanding of the causative bacterial population and its pathological mechanisms. A current guideline (2023 European Society of Cardiology) was developed to support healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing infective endocarditis; this 2023 version is introducing a new diagnostic algorithm to aid in patient classification aiming to improve outcomes for this challenging disease. The study was a priori registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023407736).

Studies on environmental enrichment for captive bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are still very scarce in the literature, but they are of the utmost importance in the search for quality of life for these animals when they are under human care. Environmental enrichment items should be inclusive, allowing disabled animals to explore them and providing good experiences. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate food enrichment strategies to increase the foraging behavior of captive non-disabled and disabled bearded dragons. This work was carried out with six adult bearded dragons, three of which had one limb amputated and three that had all limbs, kept at the São Paulo Aquarium. Live kingworm larvae (Zophobas morio) were offered as food in three different levels of enrichment challenge (low, medium, high). Behavioral data were collected using focal sampling with instantaneous recording, with a time interval of every 30 s. Results showed that the more complex the food enrichment challenge, the greater the frequency of bearded dragon foraging. In addition, both amputees and non-amputees responded similarly to the enrichment items, differing primarily in their activity levels, where amputee individuals showed more tendencies toward ‘stationary’ and ‘lying down’ behaviors. More studies with reptiles should be encouraged so that good management practices become daily protocols for a better quality of life and for rescuing the natural behaviors of animals kept under human care, even those with anatomical disabilities.

Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma (PSP) is a quite rare tumor outside Eastern countries. This rarity, together with a wide histological appearance, makes its correct identification a diagnostic challenge for pathologists under the microscope. Historically, PSP was considered a vascular-derived neoplasm (sclerosing hemangioma), but its immunohistochemical profile clearly supports its epithelial origin. No specific molecular fingerprint has been detected so far. This short narrative revisits the clinical, histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular aspects of this tumor, paying special attention to some controversial points still not well clarified, i.e., clinical aggressiveness and metastatic spread, multifocality, the supposed development of sarcomatoid change in a subset of cases, and tumor associations with lung adenocarcinoma and/or well-differentiated neuroendocrine hyperplasia/tumors. The specific diagnostic difficulties on fine-needle aspiration cytology/biopsy and perioperative frozen sections are also highlighted. Finally, a teaching case of tumor concurrence of lung adenocarcinoma, neuroendocrine lesions, and PSP, paradigmatic of tumor association in this context, is also presented.

Dental rehabilitation with implants is a clinical reality in clinical practice. The Interproximal Contact Loss (ICL) between implant-supported prostheses adjacent to natural teeth is a relatively common occurrence. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the possible clinical effects of the periodontium regarding the ICL between teeth and implanted-supported prostheses. We also identified the main ICL assessment tools described in the literature. This study was registered on the PROSPERO (CRD42023446235), was based on the PICO strategy, and followed the PRISMA guidelines. An electronic search was carried out in the PubMed, B-on, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases without setting a time limit for publications. Only systematic reviews and comparative clinical trials were included and analyzed. Nineteen publications were eligible for meta-analysis, with thirteen retrospective and six prospective clinical trials. A total of 2047 patients and 7319 prostheses in function were evaluated, and ICL was found in 51% with a confidence interval of 0.40 to 0.61. As ICL assessment tools, dental floss was used in 65%, matrices were used in 30%, and X-ray images were used in 5% of cases. The clinical follow-up ranged from 1 to 21 years, with 50% between 1 and 3 years, 25% between 3 and 10 years, and 25% between 10 and 21 years. ICL was found to occur more frequently in the mandible. No statistically significant difference existed between the anterior (55%) and posterior (47%) oral regions. On the mesial surface, ICL ranged from 13% to 81.4%, possibly due to the different follow-up periods and the diversity of methods used in the assessment. No differences were found for ICL between single or multiple implanted-supported prostheses. Food impaction was the most common effect of ICL and was more prevalent on the implant-supported prosthesis’s mesial surface in the mandible’s posterior region. There was evidence of peri-implant mucositis but without progression to peri-implantitis, and the form of retention or the number of elements was not relevant.

Catechol (CT) is a phenolic compound widely used in various industrial sectors, but it is toxic; thus, there is a need for methods that aim to identify and quantify the existence of residues of this material in the environment. In this study a disposable printed electrochemical sensor was developed as an effective alternative for determining CT in water samples. The electrode, called SPEC, was manufactured using the screen-printing method using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a support, in which a conductive ink based on carbonaceous materials was used to print the working and auxiliary electrodes and a silver/silver chloride of ink on the reference electrode. The optimal ratio for the conductive ink was 6.25% carbon black, 35.42% graphite, and 58.33% nail polish. The ink obtained was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The assessment of the effect of pH on the redox process showed Nernstian behavior (0.057 V pH−1), indicating that the process involves the same number of protons and electrons. Under optimized conditions, with 0.2 mol L−1 acetate buffer at pH 5.0, and by square wave voltammetry, the sensor presented sensitivity values of 0.31 μA L μmol−1, a detection limit of 5.96 μmol L−1, and a quantification limit of 19.87 μmol L−1. The sensor was applied to determine CT in tap water samples, and the results showed recoveries between 97.95 and 100.17%.

This article delves into Brazil’s rapidly expanding e-commerce sector, emphasizing its significant growth and evolving dynamics. Employing a meta-narrative review and a convergence-coding matrix, this research systematically analyzes and integrates findings from the existing literature to reveal critical industry patterns. The analysis identifies four pivotal clusters: consumer behavior, e-commerce structure, product distribution, and environmental sustainability. These elements collectively offer a comprehensive view of Brazil’s present and future e-commerce directions. This study underscores the imperative for strategies responsive to changing consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and environmental concerns. It also furnishes practical insights for enhancing online retail consumer engagement, logistical efficiency, and sustainability. Furthermore, this research advocates for e-commerce as a vehicle for digital inclusion, calling for policies that promote equitable access to online markets. This underscores its broader socio-economic importance, suggesting a path forward for stakeholders in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable e-commerce ecosystem.

Assai (Euterpe oleracea Martius) is a superfruit widely consumed in several countries, mainly produced in the Amazon region. The significant growth of the market for this fruit has raised environmental concerns regarding the disposal of production waste, especially the seeds that are not utilized and represent approximately 80% of the fruit. In the present study, strategies were developed for transforming these seed wastes into new products, using green solvents for extraction under conditions conducive to technology transfer and with feasible quality control through simple bench techniques, which represents an ideal approach for establishing a truly sustainable process. A significant interaction between solvent and extraction method was observed, impacting both yields and total phenols. Phenolic compounds are substances known for their health benefits, functioning as antioxidants and consequently aiding in disease prevention. The phenolic content observed in the extractions increased from 22.68% to 44.74% under optimal conditions during extraction via hot maceration (50 °C) in 100% ethanol for 2 h, which also enhanced yield and increased antioxidant capacity. The extracts displayed remarkable free radical scavenging activities (IC50 = 6.54 μg/mL in ABTS and IC50 = 14.71 μg/mL in DPPH), approaching the Trolox and quercetin standards, respectively. The optimized method paved the way for the industrial-scale utilization of the residues of this valuable Amazonian fruit.

In breeding programs, the demand for high-throughput phenotyping is substantial as it serves as a crucial tool for enhancing technological sophistication and efficiency. This advanced approach to phenotyping enables the rapid and precise measurement of complex traits. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate the correlation between vegetation indices (VIs) and grain yield and to identify the optimal timing for accurately estimating yield. Furthermore, this study aims to employ photographic quantification to measure the characteristics of corn ears and establish their correlation with corn grain yield. Ten corn hybrids were evaluated in a Complete Randomized Block (CRB) design with three replications across three locations. Vegetation and green leaf area indices were estimated throughout the growing cycle using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and were subsequently correlated with grain yield. The experiments consistently exhibited high levels of experimental quality across different locations, characterized by both high accuracy and low coefficients of variation. The experimental quality was consistently significant across all sites, with accuracy ranging from 79.07% to 95.94%. UAV flights conducted at the beginning of the crop cycle revealed a positive correlation between grain yield and the evaluated vegetation indices. However, a positive correlation with yield was observed at the V5 vegetative growth stage in Lavras and Ijaci, as well as at the V8 stage in Nazareno. In terms of corn ear phenotyping, the regression coefficients for ear width, length, and total number of grains (TNG) were 0.92, 0.88, and 0.62, respectively, demonstrating a strong association with manual measurements. The use of imaging for ear phenotyping is promising as a method for measuring corn components. It also enables the identification of the optimal timing to accurately estimate corn grain yield, leading to advancements in the agricultural imaging sector by streamlining the process of estimating corn production.

The consumption of fiber in the human diet is a global recommendation to ensure a healthy diet. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.), a gluten-free grain, and chia (Salvia hispanica), a seed, contain a high fiber content, and both have the potential to be used in the development of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations. An interesting characteristic of chia is its ability to form viscous mucilage when in contact with water, making it a potential binder in solid formulations. However, there are no studies on chia as a binder, and therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of using chia as a binder to produce quinoa granules and, subsequently, develop chewable tablet formulations. The quinoa and chia were in a powder form and then transformed into a wet mass with the help of mixer torque rheometer (MTR) equipment. In the wet granulation form, the following parameters were tested: multiple additions, 15 g of material, and 25 timepoints for the addition of 1 mL of water. An experimental design was carried out to evaluate the impact of the variables on the MTR results for subsequent granulation. The granulation point was possible for T1–T9, and most formulations gave satisfactory results, such as an acceptable resistance of the granules. In the end, a formulation was selected for the development of chewable tablets containing quinoa and chia fibers.

This study delves into how motivational sessions and brief interventions impact students’ alcohol consumption, highlighting the vital role of nurses in fostering positive behavioural changes. The study aims to discern the effects of these interventions, starting with a pre-and post-intervention setup involving 62 students from a private school in northern Portugal. The intervention comprised a session delivered by school and mental health nurses, utilizing the motivational intervention and FRAMES method and a poster offering feedback on alcohol consumption scores. The results indicated that females tended to drink for fewer days and engage in less binge drinking than males. Furthermore, the intervention hinted at a reduction in the number of heavy drinking days. This study underscores the importance of including healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in delivering brief interventions within school settings. The findings carry weight for crafting evidence-based interventions to cultivate healthier adolescent behaviours and enhance overall well-being.

Fingerprints are essential for human identification and are valuable tools in criminal investigations. The pursuit of new materials for digital printing is expanding, with increasing interest in natural compounds such as bixin, sourced from annatto seeds. Despite its traditional use as a natural dye with medicinal properties, the potential of bixin in papilloscopy remains largely untapped. In this study, we meticulously extracted bixin from annatto seeds and meticulously developed composites incorporating zinc carbonate (bixin/ZnCO3) and kaolinite (bixin/kaolinite). UV-visible spectroscopy was used for characterization, and the extracted bixin showed absorption peaks at 429, 453, and 481 nm, which were very similar to standard peaks at 429, 457, and 487 nm. The two samples also had the same retention times (7.07 min) according to further liquid chromatography analysis. Sweat pores were easier to detect thanks to the effectiveness of the bixin/ZnCO3 and bixin/kaolinite composites in creating high contrast sebaceous and natural latent fingerprints. These results highlight the composites’ potential as novel and fascinating instruments for papilloscopy applications, which might also improve forensic investigations.

The aim of this study was to economically estimate the effect of inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense (A. brasilense) associated with enhanced efficiency nitrogen fertilizers on corn yield cultivated in the Brazilian Amazon. The experimental design used was completely randomized, in a 2 × 3 × 5 factorial scheme, resulting from the combination of the presence and absence of seeds inoculated with A. brasilense, three sources of N (conventional urea, urea with NBPT, N-(n-butyl)thiophosphoric triamide, and polymer-coated urea), and five doses of N (0; 50; 100; 150; and 200 kg ha−1 of N), with six replications. Inoculation with A. brasilense promoted profit in corn, regardless of dose and the source of N applied. The urea with NBPT provided better economic return compared to polymer-coated urea and conventional urea sources, and doses of N applied in topdressing that promoted the highest economic return were 100 and 150 kg ha−1 of N, with an estimated increase of 62.33 and 135.53 bags ha−1 and increase of BRL 3253.76 and BRL 7074.88 respectively, compared to the control treatment.

Medication errors have serious consequences and high costs for the patient and the system. The treatment process and the care required for critically ill patients are complex, and these patients are more vulnerable to errors and potential consequences. A scoping review using the JBI methodology was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases and reported by the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to explore strategies that can mitigate medication errors by nurses. The search strategy focused on references published between January 2012 and April 2023. Sixteen studies were included, and the results were organized into thematic areas. Medication errors by nurses are in the areas of preparation, administration, and documentation; organizational, system-related, procedural, personal, and knowledge and training factors are predisposing factors for errors; educational intervention, verification and safety methods, organizational changes, and error reporting are the strategic areas to mitigate medication error. The organization of the data could be different, as it depends on the reviewers’ experience. Knowledge of the factors that cause medication errors and interventions to mitigate them make it possible to outline strategies to minimize their occurrence and achieve health gains. The protocol preceding this review has been registered in the Open Science Framework and published.

Seaweeds have been utilized for millennia in Asian countries, although they have only more recently become popular in Western society. They began to be used in ancient times because of their long-term properties and, nowadays, seaweeds are being targeted as a potential tool to combat climate change. There are not many laws governing seaweeds because they have just lately been utilized as food. However, guidelines are being developed to regulate their manufacture and use. Because of seaweed’s tendency to accumulate components, whether helpful or poisonous, limited doses of certain substances have been established to prevent consumer overdosage. Aside from chemical safety, microbiological safety is important for people, and preventing any pathogen from spreading and infecting seaweeds is critical. As a result, systems and ways to safeguard consumers must be developed. Because various seaweed species have varied compositions, certain seaweeds may be safer nutraceuticals than others. To ensure the safety of seaweed-based food items, the HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) system needs to be used. The majority of seaweeds consumed come from aquaculture; however, others come from wild harvesting. To ensure the success of the cultures, the waters must be tested for chemicals and biological risks, as well as for the pH, salinity, and temperature. Seaweeds have enormous promise in many industries, but in the food industry, they are beginning to play a major role, and seizing the chances to produce innovative, safe, and sustainable food sources is strongly advised. This critical review investigates the real potential of seaweed as a human food source and as a nutraceutical solution. This review also focuses on the usage of seaweed as a food product and the procedures required to prepare it. In addition, it compiles information on the applicable legislation and regulations, and it addresses the lengthy road that has to be traveled to increase human well-being by employing a new food source in a controlled manner while simultaneously reducing the human population’s health problems.