Search

Several studies on the pathophysiological and epidemiological characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 indicate the extracorporeal viability of the virus and the possibility of faecal-oral transmission through contaminated natural water and wastewater, suggesting a potential risk of spreading in socially vulnerable areas, such as the Brazilian Amazon; where access to sanitation and health services is lacking. Thus, an attempt we made to outline an overview of sanitation in the Brazilian Amazon and its possible impacts on the most vulnerable populations and on the health system in a pandemic situation, based on bibliographic and documentary review and exploratory analysis of data related to basic sanitation and health. The Amazon has a huge deficit in sanitation and in the structure of health services, especially in rural areas, increasing the risk of spreading infectious diseases such as COVID-19, whose progress has placed some of the Amazonian states in a prominent position in the rankings of incidence and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The competitive anxiety shows positive and linear relationship with risk behaviors for eating disorders (RBED). The competitive anxiety shows negative and linear relationship with coping strategies. Perhaps the coping strategies can mediate the relationship between competitive anxiety and RBED in athletes. The aim of this study was to analyze the coping mediation between competitive anxiety and RBED in Brazilian male athletes. 739 athletes from various sports participated. To assess the RBED frequency, the Disordered Eating in Sports Scale was adopted. The Brazilian version of the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory was used to evaluate competitive anxiety. Athletic Coping Strategies Inventory was used to evaluate coping strategies. The findings revealed a direct relationship between competitive anxiety and RBED (p = .01). The results indicated that coping strategies potentiated the relationship between competitive anxiety and RBED (p = .01). It was concluded that coping can be considered a psychological determinant in the relationship between competitive anxiety and RBED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, polymeric composites were produced using as matrix polyethylene from two different sources, virgin high-density polyethylene (HDPEv) and post-consumption (HDPEpc), and as cargo, sugarcane bagasse fibers. To test the influence of the processing type, HDPEv / Fiber and HDPEpc / Fiber composites in the ratio 90/10 (mass percentage) were processed in two different equipment: single screw extruder and co-rotating twin screw extruder. After processing, specimens were obtained by compression and characterized by analyses of density, shore D hardness, fluidity index (MFI), moisture absorption, thermogravimetric analysis and differential exploratory calorimetry. The results show that it is possible to reduce the amount of polymer from petroleum by inserting 10% of a residue, which is sugarcane bagasse, and the best results were obtained for composites using 90 % of the virgin polymer in twin screw extruder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure of the title compound, C16H26N4O6S2·2H2O, a water-soluble di-N-heterocyclic carbene ligand precursor was determined using a single crystal grown by the slow cooling of a hot N,N-di­methyl­formamide solution of the compound. The dihydrate crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c, with half of the zwitterionic mol­ecule and one water mol­ecule of crystallization in the asymmetric unit. The remaining part of the mol­ecule is completed by inversion symmetry. In the mol­ecule, the imidazole ring planes are parallel with a plane-to-plane distance of 2.741 (2) Å. The supra­molecular network is consolidated by hydrogen bonds of medium strength between the zwitterionic mol­ecules and the water mol­ecules of crystallization, as well as by π–π stacking inter­actions between the imidazole rings of neighbouring mol­ecules and C—HO hydrogen-bonding inter­actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world scenario has undergone a nutritional transition in which some countries have left the reality of malnutrition and now face an epidemic of excess body weight. Researchers have been looking for strategies to reverse this situation. Peptides and proteins stand out as promising molecules with anti-obesity action. However, oral administration and passage through the gastrointestinal tract face numerous physiological barriers that impair their bioactive function. Encapsulation aims to protect the active substance and modify the action, one possibility of potentiating anti-obesity activity. Research with encapsulated peptides and proteins has demonstrated improved stability, delivery, controlled release, and increased bioactivity. However, it is necessary to explore how proteins and peptides affect weight loss and satiety, can impact the nutritional status of obesity, and how encapsulation can enhance the bioactive effects of these molecules. This integrative review aimed to discuss how the encapsulation of protein molecules impacts the nutritional status of obesity. From the studies selected following pre-established criteria, it was possible to infer that the encapsulation of proteins and peptides can contribute to greater efficiency in reducing weight gain, changes in adipose tissue function, and lower hormone levels that modulate appetite and body weight in animals with obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution and food safety are both issues of global concern. In this sense, sustainable and antimicrobial nanocomposites based on cellulose/poly (vinyl alcohol) blend incorporated with natamycin and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were manufactured and characterized. The developed films were evaluated according to their mechanical and optical properties, and their barrier to oxygen and water vapor permeation. The antimycotic activity was evaluated in vitro against fungi and yeasts. The film's potential to act as an active packaging for Minas cheese preservation was also assessed. The incorporation of CNC increased the films' tensile strength; however, it did not influence the barrier properties to water vapor (4.12 × 10−7 g·cm.m−1·h−1·Pa−1) and oxygen (3.64 × 10−13 g·cm·m−1·h−1·Pa−1). The incorporation of natamycin, on the other hand, resulted in films that were more opaque (around 24%) and of a yellowish color. The active nanocomposites developed showed antimicrobial effects against all analyzed fungi and yeasts (approximately 35 mm of inhibition zone) and were able to control the growth of S. cerevisiae in cheese, reducing a log cycle until the 12th day of storage. Since they performed well in vitro and on food, it was concluded that the films showed potential to be applied in Minas cheese preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rice stalk stink bug, Tibraca limbativentris Stål, damages plant stalks while feeding, making it one of the most important rice pests in South America. Because the feeding behavior of T. limbativentris has not yet been studied in rice, we investigated T. limbativentris stylet penetration (probing) in rice stalks. A waveform library was created using the new AC-DC EPG monitor with different levels of input resistance (Ri). Six different waveforms were recorded and correlated via histological studies and grouped into three phases: non-probing waveforms (Z and Np), pathway waveforms (Tl1), and ingestion waveforms (Tl2 and Tl3). The Z waveform was observed when the stink bug was standing still on the plant surface, Np when the stink bug was walking on plant surface, Tl1 was associated with stylet insertion and deep penetration into the plant tissue, and Tl2 when the stink bug was feeding on xylem vessels. The Tl3 waveform was associated with the rupture of stalk cells and was divided into two subtypes (Tl3a and Tl3b). The Tl3a waveform probably represents cell laceration with combined enzymatic maceration of stalk tissues, while Tl3b represents a short ingestion period of macerated tissues. Tibraca limbativentris uses two strategies to feed on rice stalks: a salivary sheath for feeding on xylem vessels and cell rupture (laceration and maceration) for feeding on parenchyma cells. Our study provides crucial benchmark definitions of waveforms. Future studies can now compare effects of treatments on stink bug feeding, to ultimately improve management of this pest in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we use a simplified version of Young’s solution for the steady-state Joule-heating, that uses temperature dependent thermal and electrical conductivities, to find the temperature and displacement behavior of a V-shaped electrothermal microactuator (ETMA) device. In order to test and validate our approach we performed FEM simulations and actually built an ETMA device by microfabrication. The experimental device displacement was measured in vacuum, with a scanning electron microscope. Our numerical results agree quite well with the FEM simulation and experimental results up to a displacement of (0.8 ± 0.2) $\mu \text{m}$ and applied current of 30 mA. Above 35 mA, an abrupt variation of the resistivity is observed followed by surface degradation at 50 mA and device melting at 52 mA. The validity of our approach is discussed of the device geometry and material parameters. [2019-0208] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of scattering of a normally incident surface wave train by an obstacle in the form of a thick rectangular vertical bottom-standing barrier submerged in finite-depth water with a free surface is extended here with an ice cover modelled as a thin uniform elastic plate. The problem is reduced to a set of singular integral equations of the first kind. The Galerkin approximation in terms of simple polynomials multiplied by appropriate weight functions whose form is dictated by the behavior of the fluid velocity near the barrier edges is used for solving the integral equations. The reflection and transmission coefficients are obtained numerically, and they are depicted graphically against the wavenumber for various ice cover parameters. It is observed that the barrier thickness plays a significant role in modelling of efficient breakwaters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The biphasic reaction of oleic acid with glycerol is limited by diffusion. • Ester products act as phase transfer catalysts accelerating the reaction. • Ester formation is accompanied by oxidation/dehydration co-products. This work investigates two new aspects of the biphasic esterification reaction of glycerol (G) and oleic acid (A), i.e. the formation of several oxidation/dehydration co-products and the effect of the ester products as phase transfer agents to accelerate the reaction. Potentiometric titration, FTIR, TG and especially paper electrospray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) were employed to analyze the products. Reactions with different G:A molar ratios (1:0.5, 1:1 and 1:2) without catalyst at 140, 160 and 180 °C showed oleic acid conversions of 50–80% to form the mono, di and triesters with several other by co-products due to dehydrogenation/oxidation of the oleic chain and dehydration of the glycerol moiety identified by PS-MS. The phase transfer autocatalytic effect was investigated by the addition of the oleate esters (2, 4 and 10 wt%) to the reaction. It was observed a strong acceleration of at the initial stage of the process indicating an autocatalysis likely due to a phase transfer effect. The reaction is discussed in terms of three stages. In the initial biphasic Stage 1, oleic acid suffers some dehydrogenation/oxidation and the esterification reaction takes place slowly at the glycerol-oleic acid interface to form mainly the monooleate ester which is an amphiphilic/tensoactive molecule. In the Stage 2, the amphiphilic ester products act as phase transfer agents taking glycerol molecules to the oleic acid phase for the formation of mono and mainly dioleate ester. At the Stage 3 in the presence of relatively high concentration of the tensoactive ester products the reaction becomes homogeneous/monophasic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low uniformity in light distribution provided by conventional lighting systems installed in laying poultry can compromise the productive performance and egg quality of laying hens. Thus, the aim of the current study is to evaluate the effect of a linear lighting system with light-emitting diode (LED strip) on the productive performance and egg quality of laying hens, by comparing it to the conventional LED lamp lighting system. The study used Hy-Line Brown hens from a commercial production unit. Hen-day egg production (%), mortality rate (%), egg weight (g), albumen height (mm), Haugh unit, eggshell thickness, eggshell strength, and thermal-environment conditions were evaluated from the 19th to the 48th wk of age. The results have shown that LED strips were capable of improving egg production (P < 0.05) in comparison to LED lamps. Egg quality was not affected (P > 0.05) by the evaluated lighting systems throughout the experimental period. Results of the current study indicate that the homogeneous illuminance distribution provided by the linear LED strip lighting system at different cage floors improved egg production in comparison to the conventional LED lamp lighting system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Presence of psychotic symptoms seems to be a commonplace in early-onset bipolar disorder (BD). However, few studies have examined their occurrence in adolescent-onset BD. We sought to investigate the frequency of affective and psychotic symptoms observed during the first manic episode in adolescents. Methods: Forty-nine adolescents with bipolar I disorder (DSM-IV criteria) were admitted to a psychiatric hospital during their first acute manic episode. Assessment for current psychiatric diagnosis was performed by direct clinical interview and the DSM-IV version of the Diagnostic Interview for Children and Adolescents (DICA). Results: Teenage inpatients with BD consistently exhibited typical manic features, such as euphoria, grandiosity, and psychomotor agitation. In addition, disorganization and psychotic symptoms were present in 82 and 55% of the total sample, respectively. There was no significant difference in symptoms between early- and late-adolescent subgroups. Remarkably, most patients (76%) reported previous depressive episode(s); of these, 47% had prominent psychotic features in the prior depressive period. Conclusion: These findings suggest that disorganization and psychotic symptoms during the first manic episode are salient features in adolescent-onset BD, and that psychotic depression frequently may precede psychotic mania. Nevertheless, differential diagnosis with schizophrenia should be routinely ruled out in cases of early-onset first psychotic episode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article identifies the attributes that are antecedent to the generation of trust and satisfaction for users of internet banking services. This is a survey research that included the participation of 449 Brazilian respondents. The data were analyzed using statistical procedure of systematic data, exploratory factor analysis, construct validity, construction schedules, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. The theoretical model consists of seven hypotheses about the relationship between trust, satisfaction, usability, reputation and privacy/security. In the model proposed constructs for confidence and satisfaction appear as regression variables and have a good level of reliability allowing the observation of its importance in providing internet banking services. The results indicate that higher levels of usability, reputation and privacy/security provided by users of this service contribute to better levels of confidence and satisfaction. The way people see the internet banking service, to compare the products and services offered by other websites competing banks, is positively related to the trust and satisfaction deposited in providing the service. The results also show that the user confidence in the use of internet banking service is not a predecessor of the satisfaction of it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of chitosan and whole raw soybean on nutrient intake, apparent digestibility, nitrogen utilization, microbial protein synthesis, blood metabolites, feeding behavior, ruminal fermentation, digesta kinetics, and reticular flow of nutrients of buffaloes. Four ruminally-cannulated Murrah buffaloes (351 ± 15 kg of initial BW) were randomly assigned according to a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were arranged as 2 × 2 factorial arrangement: the first factor was whole raw soybean (WRS), and the second factor was chitosan (CHI) with or without their inclusion in diets. Intake and apparent digestibility of ether extract (p < .01; p = .04, respectively), non-fiber carbohydrates intake (p = .03) and apparent ruminal digestibility of dry matter (p = .01) were affected by diets. An interaction effect or tendency was observed for microbial nitrogen (p = .09), concentrations, ruminal ammonia nitrogen (p = .05), total volatile fatty acid (p = .03). Association of chitosan with whole raw soybean has potential effects as a modulator of rumen fermentation; therefore, chitosan can be applied as an alternative non-ionophore for Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition (1,3-DC) reactions are powerful synthetic tool to obtain highly functionalized 5-membered heterocycles, starting from a 1,3-dipole and a dipolarophile in a single step. The reactivity of these systems is usually rationalized in terms of Frontier Molecular Orbital Theory (FMOT), which neglects a possible contribution of an open-shell weakly coupled singlet-diradical specie. In this work, the broken-symmetry approach is used to estimate the singlet-diradical character of 18 dipoles of the second period of the periodic table, classified as allyl-type N-centered, allyl-type O-centered, and propargyl-type 1,3-dipoles, providing a rationalization for 1,3-DC reactivity. The intramolecular cyclization of bent allyl-type N- and O-centered dipoles into 3-membered rings was also analyzed, and revealed that the energetic change is associated with the spin densities of peripheral atoms. Finally, a close relationship between the energy for the ring-opening process of the cyclic configuration and the reactivity of 1,3-dipoles toward 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction was also found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian neriid fly genus Telostylus Bigot (Diptera: Neriidae) is revised, including a key and illustrations of its species. Lectotype designations are proposed for four species: Telostylus babiensis de Meijere, T. decemnotatus Hendel, T. remipes (Walker) and T. trilineatus de Meijere. Two new species are described: Telostylus marshalli Sepúlveda & de Carvalho, sp. n., from Sarawak, Malaysia, and T. whitmorei Sepúlveda & de Carvalho, sp. n., from Masbate, Philippines. The morphology of Telostylus binotatus Bigot and T. remipes (Walker) is discussed in order to support their synonymy. Additionally, new country records are provided for four species: Telostylus babiensis de Meijere for Philippines, T. binotatus Bigot for Papua New Guinea, T. inversus Hennig for Malaysia and Indonesia, and T. trilineatus de Meijere for Malaysia and Philippines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorbitol is an important platform molecule with applications in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors and with potential in biopolymers. It is obtained in batch reactors through the hydrogenation of glucose, on Ni-Raney catalysts. The leaching of nickel in the reaction media involves additional purification steps and makes the product more expensive. This work evaluates the current and future market of sorbitol, considering its applications. In addition, it collects information on the use of different metals and supports that offer higher selectivity in obtaining sorbitol from glucose or directly from cellulose, from biomass residues. It was verified that the sorbitol market presents an expectation of growth of more than 5 % until 2022. Even though the Ni-Raney catalyst is the most economically competitive, it can be replaced efficiently by the ruthenium supported in different materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isoetes dubsii sp. nov. and I. santacruzensis sp. nov., two new species from lowland areas in South America, are described, illustrated and compared to similar species. Isoetes dubsii can be distinguished from other species of the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands by a set of characters including leaves that are long, flexuous and trigonal in transverse section, tri-lobate stems, rudimentary velum, pustulate megaspores of 310-390 µm diameter and laesurae of the megaspore at least four times wider than high. Isoetes santacruzensis has flexuous, filiform leaves, 0.4-0.8 mm wide at mid length and reaching up to 15 cm long, black or reddish-black sporangia, sclerified phyllopodia and sparsely verrucate megaspores of 320-390 µm in diameter. We also include a key for species from the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands and Bolivia and spore images for all species that are discussed. Isoetes dubsii and I. santacruzensis are only known from their type localities and they may deserve special attention concerning their conservation status. However, based on our current knowledge on these species and according to IUCN Red List criteria, they are assessed here as data deficient (DD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rondônia state is among those that make up the Western Amazon region, which had the largest deforested area. This occurred due to the National State's option for private land ownership and capitalist expansion, to the detriment of conservation and traditional forms of use. Thus, the objective is to carry out the dynamic modeling of deforestation from 2015 to 2050 in the state of Rondônia. Methodology was contemplated by environmental modeling and decision making based on the Geographic Information System (GIS). Dynamic modeling of deforestation was developed using the software "DINAMICA EGO". Results revealed that the advance of deforestation until 2015 occupied 37.68% of the area of the state of Rondônia and will reach 54.87%, by 2050. In addition, deforestation will be greater in areas close to the road network, urban areas and areas already deforested. On the other hand, conservation of vegetation will be more expressive with special areas, indigenous lands and conservation units. Finally, from the projection map of the removal of vegetation for the year 2050 it was possible to verify that the removal of vegetation will be greater in the northwestern portion, especially in the municipality of Porto Velho. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a literature review on the study of Educational Policies and its relation to School and Educational Psychology. The study is exploratory-descriptive in nature. After meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria, there were a total of 23 articles categorized according to the general aspects (year of publication and country of origin of the study) and the focus of the studies. There was an increase in research on the topic since 2011, and that most of the studies were from Latin American countries, mainly in Brazil. Most of the studies addressed only educational policies. However, there were also research correlated with other policies. Research on the intersection between Educational Policies and School and Educational Psychology is still incipient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prediction of upstream noise generated by aeroengine components including acoustic liners under realistic flight conditions is an important tool for the aircraft design process. In general, the acoustic absorbing properties of liners and the resulting noise mitigation are affected by the presence of the boundary layer. The main goal of this study is to compare the effect of liner attenuation in the far field for different boundary conditions representing the liners, including uniform and shear flows, and consider typical turbofan geometry and operating conditions. For uniform flow cases, a reference solution was obtained from a finite element method code and used to validate the analytical model, which is based on the in-duct mode-matching technique and an analytic radiation model. For shear flow cases, the Brambley boundary condition and the solution to the Pridmore-Brown equation were considered; and the power transmission and modal decay rate along the duct were compared for increasing boundary-layer thickness. The transmitted modes were coupled to the radiation model based on the Kirchhoff integral approximation. The results suggest that the influence of the boundary-layer thickness can lead to a significant reduction on liner attenuation in some conditions. Moreover, it was observed in some cases that modal scattering produced by liner discontinuities results in a complex behavior (with the redistribution of the acoustic energy onto cut-on modes) in terms of noise radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 3-3-1 model with right-handed neutrinos (331RHNs), three triplets of scalars engender the correct sequence of symmetry breaking, S U (3) C × S U (3) L × U (1) X → S U (3) C × S U (2) L × U (1) Y → S U (3) C × U (1) EM , generating mass for all fermions, except neutrinos. Tiny neutrino masses may be achieved by implementing the type II seesaw mechanism into the model, requiring the addition of one sextet of scalars to the original scalar content. As consequence, it emerges a very complex scalar sector, involving terms that violate lepton number explicitly, too. The main obstacle to the development of the phenomenology of such scenario is the knowledge of its spectrum of scalars since, now, there are 15 massive scalar particles on it. The proposal of this work is to do an exhaustive analysis of such scalar sector with lepton number being explicitly violated at low, electroweak and high energy scales by means of trilinear terms in the potential. The first case can be addressed analytically and, as a nice result, we have observed that the scalar content of such case is split into two categories: One belonging to the 331 energy scale and the other belonging to the EWSB energy scale, with the last recovering the well know 2THDM + triplet. For the other cases, the scalar sector can be addressed only numerically. Hence, we proposed a very general approach for the numerical study of the potential, avoiding simplifications that can make us reach conclusions without foundation. We show that, in the case of lepton number being explicitly violated at electroweak scale, it is possible to recover the same physics of the 2HDM + triplet, as the previous case. Among all the possibilities, we call the attention to one special case which generates the 3HDM+triplet scenario. For the last case, when lepton number is violated at high energy scale, the sextet becomes very massive and decouples from the original scalar content of the 3-3-1 model. We also discuss, when possible, the phenomenological aspects of each case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Leachate co-treatment with domestic sewage was studied in AGS systems. • Engineering and microbiological aspects were assessed. • Feeding strategy, reactor configuration, and methanol addition played important roles. • Step-feeding promoted a better denitrification and total nitrogen removal. • Step-feeding was important for a better operational stability. Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) technology has been consolidated for sewage treatment. However, studies about the co-treatment of landfill leachate in municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWWTPs) with AGS systems are still incipient. The engineering and microbiological aspects of leachate co-treatment with sewage in step-feeding (R1) and conventional (R2) AGS systems were evaluated. Initially, synthetic sewage with a gradual increase in the organic load for granule formation was used (Periods I and II). Subsequently, co-treatment with leachate pre-treated by coagulation-flocculation was carried out with 5% (Period III) and 10% (Period IV) concentrations. Finally, methanol supplementation was conducted as an attempt to improve nutrients removal performance (Period V). Based on the results obtained, the co-treatment in granular reactors was feasible. The best conditions were obtained in R1 during Period V with methanol supplementation. Step-feeding produced a more compact and resistant aerobic granular biomass, resulting in better operational stability. Moreover, this strategy favored denitrification, especially during methanol supplementation, minimizing one of the main problems reported regarding leachate co-treatment in AGS systems. As a result, higher total nitrogen (TN) removals were obtained. At the end of the last period, in R1, Chemical Oxygen Dissolved (COD), TN, and Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) removals were 93%, and phosphorus removal was 54%, reaching values higher or similar to other AGS investigations with sewage, leachate, or co-treatment. Therefore, the strategies investigated unprecedentedly contribute to consolidating the domestic sewage co-treatment with leachate in AGS systems and providing a good perspective for other industrial wastewaters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrocytic tumors are known for their high progression capacity and high mortality rates; in this regard, proteins correlated to prognosis can aid medical conduct. Although several genetic changes related to progression from grade 2 to grade 4 astrocytoma are already known, mRNA copies do not necessarily correlate with protein abundance and therefore could shadow further comprehension about this tumor's biology. This motivates us to seek for complementary strategies to study tumor progression at the protein level. Here we compare the proteomic profile of biopsies from patients with grade 2 (diffuse, n = 6) versus grade 4 astrocytomas (glioblastomas, n = 10) using shotgun proteomics. Data analysis performed with PatternLab for proteomics identified 5,206 and 6,004 proteins in the 2- and 4-grade groups, respectively. Our results revealed seventy-four differentially abundant proteins (p < 0.01); we then shortlist those related to greater malignancy. We also describe molecular pathways distinctly activated in the two groups, such as differences in the organization of the extracellular matrix, decisive both in tumor invasiveness and in signaling for cell division, which, together with marked contrasts in energy metabolism, are determining factors in the speed of growth and dissemination of these neoplasms. The degradation pathways of GABA, enriched in the grade 2 group, is consistent with a favorable prognosis. Other functions such as platelet degranulation, apoptosis, and activation of the MAPK pathway were correlated to grade 4 tumors and, consequently, unfavorable prognoses. Our results provide an important survey of molecular pathways involved in glioma pathogenesis for these histopathological groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study described three synthesis routes using different natural polysaccharides as low-cost non-toxic fuels and complexing agents for obtaining MgO. Cassava starch, Aloe vera leaves (mainly acemannan) gel, and citric pectin powder were mixed with magnesium nitrate salt and calcined at 750 °C for 2 h. The samples were named according to the polysaccharide: cassava starch (MgO-St), citrus pectin (MgO-CP), and Aloe vera (MgO-Av). X-ray diffraction identified the formation of a monophasic periclase structure (FCC type) for the three samples. The N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms (B.E.T. method) showed an important difference in textural properties, with a higher pore volume (Vmax = 89.76 cc/g) and higher surface area (SA = 43.93 m2/g) obtained for MgO-St, followed by MgO-CP (Vmax = 11.01 cc/g; SA = 7.01 m2/g) and MgO-Av (Vmax = 6.44 cc/g; SA = 6.63 m2/g). These data were consistent with the porous appearance observed in SEM images. Porous solids are interesting as adsorbents for removing metallic and molecular ions from wastewater. The removal of copper ions from water was evaluated, and the experimental data at equilibrium were adjusted according to the Freundlich, Langmuir, and Temkin isotherms. According to the Langmuir model, the maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) was 6331.117, 5831.244, and 6726.623 mg·g−1 for the adsorbents MgO-St, MgO-Av, and MgO-CP, respectively. The results of the adsorption isotherms indicated that the synthesized magnesium oxides could be used to decrease the amount of Cu2+ ions in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual sensors provisioning is a central issue for sensors cloud middleware since it is responsible for selecting physical nodes, usually from Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) of different owners, to handle user's queries or applications. Recent works perform provisioning by clustering sensor nodes based on the correlation measurements and then selecting as few nodes as possible to preserve WSN energy. However, such works consider only homogeneous nodes (same set of sensors). Therefore, those works are not entirely appropriate for sensor clouds, which in most cases comprises heterogeneous sensor nodes. In this paper, we propose ACxSIMv2, an approach to enhance the provisioning task by considering heterogeneous environments. Two main algorithms form ACxSIMv2. The first one, ACASIMv1, creates multi-dimensional clusters of sensor nodes, taking into account the measurements correlations instead of the physical distance between nodes like most works on literature. Then, the second algorithm, ACOSIMv2, based on an Ant Colony Optimization system, selects an optimal set of sensors nodes from to respond user's queries while attending all parameters and preserving the overall energy consumption. Results from initial experiments show that the approach reduces significantly the sensor cloud energy consumption compared to traditional works, providing a solution to be considered in sensor cloud scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental random data, in general, present a skewed behaviour. Thus, asymmetrical generalized distributions are of interest. The generalized logistic distributions (GLDs) are good candidates to model skewed data because their probability density functions (p.d.f.) and characteristic functions are mathematically simple. In this paper, exact expressions in terms of the H-function are, for the first time, derived for the p.d.f. and for the cummulative distribution function of the linear combination of GLDs of type IV with different location, scale and shape parameters. Also, exact and approximate expressions are derived for R = P(X < Y ). Numerical examples illustrate the correctness of the expressions derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hedgehog proteins are pivotal morphogens acting through a canonical pathway involving first activation of ligand binding to Patched followed by alleviation of Smoothened receptor inhibition, leading to activation of Gli transcription factors. Noncanonical Hedgehog signaling remains poorly characterized but is thought to be mainly dependent on Smoothened. However, Smoothened inhibitors have yielded only partial success in combating Hedgehog signal transduction- dependent cancer, suggesting that noncanonical Smoothened-independent pathways also are clinically relevant. Moreover, several Smoothened-de- pendent effects (e.g. neurite projection) do not require transcriptional activation, further suggesting biological importance of noncanonical Smoothened-dependent pathways. We comprehensively characterized the cellular kinome in Hedgehog-challenged murine WT and Smoothened-/- fibroblasts as well as Smoothened agonist-stimulated cells. A peptide assay-based kinome analysis (in which cell lysates are used to phosphorylate specific kinase substrates), along with endocytosis, Lucifer Yellow-based, and immunoblotting assays, identified an elaborate signaling network of both Smoothened-dependent and -independent pathways that mediates actin reorganization through Src-like kinases, activates various proinflammatory signaling cascades, and concomitantly stimulates Wnt and Notch signaling while suppressing bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. The contribution of noncanonical Smoothened-inde- pendent signaling to the overall effects of Hedgehog on cellular physiology appears to be much larger than previously envisioned and may explain the transcriptionally independent effects of Hedgehog signaling on cytoskeleton. The observation that Patched-dependent, Smoothened-independent, noncanonical Hedgehog signaling increases Wnt/Notch signaling provides a possible explanation for the failure of Smoothened antagonists in combating Hedgehog-dependent but Smoothened inhibitor-resistant cancer. Our findings suggest that inhibiting Hedgehog-Patched interaction could result in more effective therapies as compared with conventional Smoothened-directed therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to synthesize cellulose acetate from sorghum bagasse, a promising raw material for the production of chemical inputs, both from a photosynthetic point of view and the maturation speed compared with that of sugarcane. The bagasse was treated with hydrogen peroxide, and then cellulose was isolated using sodium chlorite, acetic acid, and sodium hydroxide. The cellulose was subjected to an acetylation reaction, from which cellulose triacetate was obtained. By means of statistical analysis, it was observed that the conditions that generated the highest solubilization of lignin (62%) and higher yield from cellulose extraction (39.5%) were 60 °C, a 6% peroxide concentration, and 4 h. Cellulose acetate was obtained with a degree of substitution of 3.66 at 25 °C and 24 h. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, differential thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry analyses confirmed that the obtained cellulose presented specific characteristics of this material. Also, the reaction of acetylation was confirmed through these techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this study is to evaluate the potential for electricity generation in the State of São Paulo (SP) from the sewage treatment. A sewage treatment plant (STP) with domain in the production of biogas from wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is the basis for this case study. The basic premise is that the very generation of electricity in STPs is advantageous for companies in the sanitation sector in Brazil, resulting in cost reductions of the treatment process. Gains at the end of the process are found in two levels, namely: (i) economic, by generating 165% of electricity from biogas burning in relation to the expend; (ii) energy, by adding a new sustainable and storable energy source equivalent to 4% of natural gas offered in the State of SP and 0,5% of electricity produced from biogas burning in relation to electricity consumption. In conclusion, the potential of electricity production linked to the biogas at STPs is capable of supply its domestic demand and export the surplus to other segments of the state and national economy. Highlights • Evaluation of the power potential in the State of São Paulo from the WWTP. • In the last six decades the Brazilian urbanization grew by 180%. • Bandeirante landfill has potential of 170 GWh/year to supply of 400 k inhabitants. • ETEs present potential of electricity generation higher than their consumption. • There are environmental gains with the reduction of CH4 and sanitary emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Introduction: Although the exact cryolipolysis mechanisms on adipose tissue remain unknown, the current literature indicates that it may occur a crystallization followed by an ischemic reaction which generates an inflammatory process. Objective: To evaluate thermographically, the tissue's circulatory pattern of a patient submitted to the cryolipolysis technique and the beginning of the inflammatory process, through variations of temperature gradients and the evaluation of the pains degree of the patient in these same moments. Methods: A descriptive study, of an interventional case report, performed in an 18‐year‐old patient who had clearly visible fat in the lower abdomen area, with a skin fold greater than 2 centimeters and body mass index ≤ 30 kg/m2. Results: Comparing the maximum temperatures showed on the last thermography with the pre‐application image, an increase of 0.4°C was observed, which is suggestive of abnormality. Regarding the minimum temperatures verified, there was a significative decrease in the temperature with the procedure, which was observed on the last 5 minutes (ΔT = 9.8°C). However, in 48 hour, the minimum temperature began to recover (ΔT = 0.3°C). Conclusion: The observed data indicate that there was a significant decrease in the temperature during the cooling phase, whereas in the recovery phase, the inverse was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A strong demand of a separate time zone by northeast populace has been a matter of great debate for a very long period. However, no implementable solution to this genuine problem has yet been proposed. The CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, CSIR-NPL (the National Measurement Institute, NMI, of India and custodian of Indian Standard Time, IST) proposes an implementable solution that puts the country in two time zones: (i) IST-I (UTC + 5 : 30 h, represented by longitude passing through 82°33′E) covering the regions falling between longitude 68°7′E and 89°52′E and (ii) IST-II (UTC + 6 : 30 h, represented by longitude passing through 97°30′E) encompassing the regions between 89°52′E and 97°25′E. The proposed demarcation line between IST-I and IST-II, falling at longitude 89°52′E, is derived from analyses of synchronizing the circadian clocks to normal office hours (9 : 00 a.m. to 5 : 30 p.m.). This demarcation line passes through the border of West Bengal and Assam and has a narrow spatial extension, which makes it easier to implement from the railways point of view. Once approved, the implementation would require establishment of a laboratory for 'Primary Time Ensemble - II' generating IST-II in any of the north-eastern states, which would be equivalent to the existing 'Primary Time Ensemble-I' at CSIR-NPL, New Delhi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) is a G protein-coupled receptor that is overexpressed in the blast crisis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). • CML cell lines transfected with the BCR-ABL1 oncogene show increased PAR1 expression. • Inhibition of PAR1 reduces BCR-ABL1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in CML cell lines. • A decreased PAR1 expression is observed in tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-responsive CML patients. • TKI-resistant CML patients exhibit increased PAR1 levels. Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome, which generates the oncogene BCR-ABL1. Protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) is involved in tumor progression and angiogenesis. We have previously reported that PAR1 expression is elevated in human leukemias that display a more aggressive clinical behavior, including the blast crisis of CML. In this study, we analyzed the crosstalk between the oncoprotein BCR-ABL and PAR1 in CML. Leukemic cell lines transfected with the BCR-ABL1 oncogene showed significantly higher expression levels of PAR1 compared with that of wild-type counterparts. This phenomenon was reversed by treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Conversely, treatment with the PAR1 antagonist SCH79797 inhibited BCR-ABL expression. The PAR1 antagonist induced apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Higher vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were observed in cells transfected with BCR-ABL1 than in their wild-type counterparts. VEGF expression was strongly inhibited after treatment with either TKIs or the PAR1 antagonist. Finally, we evaluated PAR1 expression in CML patients who were either in the blast or chronic phases and had either received TKI treatment or no treatment. A significant decrease in PAR1 expression was observed in treatment-responsive patients, as opposed to a significant increase in PAR1 expression levels in treatment-resistant patients. Patients classified as high risk according to the Sokal index showed higher PAR1 expression levels. Our results demonstrate the crosstalk between BCR-ABL and PAR1. These data may offer important insight into the development of new therapeutic strategies for CML. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ) is used worldwide to assess three styles (authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive) and seven dimensions of parenting. In this study, we adapted the short version of the PSDQ for use in Brazil and investigated its validity and reliability. Methods: Participants were 451 mothers of children aged 3 to 18 years, though sample size varied with analyses. The translation and adaptation of the PSDQ followed a rigorous methodological approach. Then, we investigated the content, criterion, and construct validity of the adapted instrument. Results: The scale content validity index (S-CVI) was considered adequate (0.97). There was evidence of internal validity, with the PSDQ dimensions showing strong correlations with their higherorder parenting styles. Confirmatory factor analysis endorsed the three-factor, second-order solution (i.e., three styles consisting of seven dimensions). The PSDQ showed convergent validity with the validated Brazilian version of the Parenting Styles Inventory (Inventá rio de Estilos Parentais - IEP), as well as external validity, as it was associated with several instruments measuring sociodemographic and behavioral/emotional-problem variables. Conclusion: The PSDQ is an effective and reliable psychometric instrument to assess childrearing strategies according to Baumrind's model of parenting styles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work has been the synthesis of wollastonite by solution combustion method. The novelty of this work has been obtaining the crystalline phase without the need of thermal treatments after the synthesis. For this purpose, urea was used as fuel. Calcium nitrate was selected as a source of calcium and colloidal silica served as a source of silicon. The effect of the amount of fuel on the combustion process was investigated. Temperature of the combustion reaction was followed by digital pyrometry. The obtained products were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and specific surface area. The results showed that the combustion synthesis provides nanostructured powders characterized by a high surface area. When excess of urea was used, wollastonite-2M was obtained with a submicronic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heraclides anchisiades capys (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), Citioica anthonilis (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), and Methona themisto (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) are tree and shrub pests commonly found in urban areas. The parasitism capacity of Palmistichus elaeisis (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) was evaluated on pupae of these lepidopteran pests as well as on 2 commonly used alternative hosts, Anticarsia gemmatalis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). The number of parasitoids produced per mg of host pupal biomass was significantly greater on H. anchisiades capys and T. molitor compared with the other 3 lepidopteran species. The mean number of parasitoids emerging per host pupa was also significantly more on H. anchisiades capys compared with C. anthonilis, M. themisto, A. gemmatalis, or T. molitor. All host species tested in this study show the potential to be used in mass rearing P. elaeisis in the laboratory. However, the lower parasitism and emergence of P. elaeisis on H. anchisiades capys pupae suggests that this lepidopteran pest may not be a suitable host for this parasitoid in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants produce a wide range of secondary metabolites. Within a single species, chemotypes can be distinguished by the differences in the composition of the secondary metabolites. Herein, we evaluated Nectandra megapotamica (Spreng.) chemotypes and the balance of different classes of metabolites to verify how significant differences in plant metabolism are regarding chemotypes. We collected N. megapotamica leaves from eight adult plants in two Brazilian states. The essential oils and ethanol/water extracts were analyzed by GC-MS and LC-DAD-MS, respectively. Histochemical tests were performed, as well as chemical analyses of leaves from adaxial and abaxial foliar surfaces of N. megapotamica, and the stereochemistry of α-bisabolol was determined. Two different chemotypes, based on volatile compounds, were identified, distinguished by the presence of isospathulenol, α-bisabolol, β-bisabolene, and (E)-nerolidol for chemotype A, and bicyclogermacrene and elemicin for chemotype B. A stereochemical analysis of chemotype A extract revealed (+)-α-bisabolol enantiomer. Histochemical tests of chemotypes showed similar results and suggested the presence of essential oil in idioblasts stained with the dye NADI. The analyses of chemotype A leaves by GC-MS revealed similar compositions for abaxial and adaxial surfaces, such pattern was also observed for chemotype B. Medium and high polarity metabolites showed high chemical similarities between the chemotypes, highlighting the presence of proanthocyanidins and glycosylated flavonoids (O- and C-glycosides). Thus, N. megapotamica produced distinct volatile chemotypes with highly conserved medium to high polarity compounds. Such results suggest that phenolic derivatives have a basal physiological function, while genetic or environmental differences lead to differentiation in volatile profiles of N. megapotamica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Lepidopteran species commonly interact in the same niches in multiple crops. Interspecific competition has been neglected as a pressure selection agent in insecticide resistance studies. Our results showed that competition may act as an agent to speed up the evolution of diamide resistance in Spodoptera frugiperda and Helicoverpa armigera. Intra- and interspecific competition is considered a fundamental phenomenon in ecology. It acts as one of the most powerful selective forces that drives ecological diversity, the spatiotemporal distribution of organisms, fitness, and evolutionary aspects. Spodoptera frugiperda and Helicoverpa armigera are devastating pests and can co-occur in systems consisting of multiple agricultural crops and compete for food resources. Insecticide resistance in populations of these species has been a major threat to the sustainability of agroecosystems. No study to date has shown the effect of intra- and interspecific competition as a selective pressure agent on the evolution of insecticide resistance in lepidopteran pests in an experimental and theoretical way. Our study developed a parameterized computational model with experimental results for S. frugiperda and H. armigera competition. We simulated the behavior of heterozygous individuals with a competition capacity 100% equal to homozygous individuals resistant (100 RR) or susceptible to insecticides (00 RR), and intermediate between them (50 RR). Competition involving strains of these insect species can accelerate the evolution of their resistance to insecticides in agricultural crops. We found that competitive processes can result in a high probability of competitive exclusion for individuals with the susceptibility allele of these lepidopteran species. The results of this study are of paramount importance for understanding the impact of ecological factor competition on the evolution of insecticide resistance in lepidopteran pests, which until now has been neglected in these types of evolutionary dynamics studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiO2–SO3H, with a surface area of 115 m2/g and pore volume of 0.38 cm3g−1, and 1.32 mmol H+/g was used as a 20% w/w catalyst for the preparation of methyl salicylate (wintergreen oil or MS) from acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). A 94% conversion was achieved in a microwave reactor over 40 min at 120 °C in MeOH. The resulting crude product was purified by flash chromatography. The catalyst could be reused three times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In its original version, the minimal 3-3-1 model possess a Landau-pole around 2-6 TeV scale. Current LHC bound on Z ′ implies that the S U (3) L × U (1) X symmetry must break spontaneously around 4 TeV which means that the model may lose its perturbative character even before symmetry breaking. This is a disaster for the model. Few attention has been devoted to this problem. Here we investigate the efficiency of scalar leptoquarks in evading or shifting the Landau pole to a harmless energy scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterlogging affects millions of hectares traditionally used for food production every year. Despite this, existing literature and process-based frameworks enabling simulation of waterlogging are sparse. Here, we reveal a lack of field experiments that have enumerated effects of waterlogging on plant growth. We call for more research on waterlogging, particularly in controlled field conditions with quantified soil properties and continuous monitoring of soil moisture. We opine that future experiments should explicitly focus on the impact of waterlogging on phenology, root development, and water and nutrient uptake, including interactions with atmospheric CO 2 concentration, temperature and other biotic/abiotic stresses. Such experimental data could then be used to develop waterlogging algorithms for crop models. Greater understanding of how waterlogging impacts on plant physiology will be conducive to more robust projections of how climate change will impact on global food security. • Existing process-based frameworks enabling simulation of waterlogging are sparse. • We advocate that waterlogging experiments in field conditions are needed. • More accurate projections of crop production under climate change need robust models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum, Poaceae) is cultivated on a large scale in (sub)tropical regions such as Brazil and has considerable economic value for sugar and biofuel production. The plant is a rich substrate for endo- and epiphytic fungi. Black yeasts in the family Herpotrichiellaceae (Chaetothyriales) are colonizers of human-dominated habitats, particularly those rich in toxins and hydrocarbon pollutants, and may cause severe infections in susceptible human hosts. The present study assessed the diversity of Herpotrichiellaceae associated with sugarcane, using in silico identification and selective isolation. Using metagenomics, we identified 5833 fungal sequences, while 639 black yeast-like isolates were recovered in vitro. In both strategies, the latter fungi were identified as members of the genera Cladophialophora, Exophiala, and Rhinocladiella (Herpotrichiellaceae), Cyphellophora (Cyphellophoraceae), and Knufia (Trichomeriaceae). In addition, we discovered new species of Cladophialophora and Exophiala from sugarcane and its rhizosphere. The first environmental isolation of Cladophialophora bantiana is particularly noteworthy, because this species up to now is exclusively known from the human host where it mostly causes fatal brain disease in otherwise healthy patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employs electrochemical and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation approaches to investigate the potential of a novel analogue of trimetozine (TMZ) antioxidant profile. The correlation between oxidative stress and psychological disorders indicates that antioxidants may be an effective alternative treatment option. Butylatedhydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant widely used in industry. The BHT-TMZ compound derived from molecular hybridization, known as LQFM289, has shown promising results in early trials, and this study aims to elucidate its electrochemical properties to further support its potential as a therapeutic agent. The electrochemical behavior of LQFM289 was investigated using voltammetry and a mechanism for the redox process was proposed based on the compound's behavior. LQFM289 exhibits two distinct oxidation peaks: the first peak, Ep1a ≈ 0.49, corresponds to the oxidation of the phenolic fraction (BHT), and the second peak, Ep2a ≈ 1.2 V (vs. Ag/AgCl/KClsat), denotes the oxidation of the amino group from morpholine. Electroanalysis was used to identify the redox potentials of the compound, providing insight into its reactivity and stability in different environments. A redox mechanism was proposed based on the resulting peak potentials. The DFT calculation elucidates the electronic structure of LQFM289, resembling the precursors of molecular hybridization (BHT and TMZ), which may also dictate the pharmacophoric performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are several tools to assess functional and physical status in critical ill patients. These tools can guide rehabilitation strategies in Intensive care units (ICU). However, they are not standardized, and this can compromise their applicability. The aim of the study is to identify common contents between International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and Medical Research Council sum score (MRC-ss), Functional Status Score for the ICU (FSS-ICU), and Physical Function in ICU Test-scored (PFIT-s). As well as to propose a new assessment approach based on the ICF to ICU patients. Methods: Pilot cross-sectional study. ICU in-patients, both genders, aged between 50 and 75 years were assessed with MRC-ss, FSS-ICU, PFIT-s and the linking rules used were proposed by Cieza et al. The inter-rater agreement for the linking process was performed using the Kappa coefficient. Results: The ICF categories identified in the tools covered a total of 14 items. Common contents were identified in 13 of the 14 and two were related to body functions, six to body structures and five to activities and participation. The inter-rater agreement was considered substantial for the linking of MRC-ss (k = 0.665) and PFIT-s (k = 0.749) to the ICF, and almost perfect for the FSS-ICU (k = 0.832). Conclusions: This study synthesizes and categorizes commonly used tools and presents a new proposal based on the ICF to guide future studies. The proposed model combines the ICF with the contents of the most relevant instruments used in critical care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, two green synthesis routes were used for the synthesis of Ag/ZnO nanoparticles, using cassava starch as a simple and low-cost effective fuel and Aloe vera as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The Ag/ZnO nanoparticles were characterized and used for bacterial disinfection of lake water contaminated with Escherichia coli (E. coli). Characterization indicated the formation of a face-centered cubic structure of metallic silver nanoparticles with no insertion of Ag into the ZnO hexagonal wurtzite structure. Physicochemical and bacteriological analyses described in "Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater" were used to evaluate the efficiency of the treatment. In comparison to pure ZnO, the synthesized Ag/ZnO nanoparticles showed high efficiencies against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and general coliforms present in the lake water. These pathogens were absent after treatment using Ag/ZnO nanoparticles. The results indicate that Ag/ZnO nanoparticles synthesized via green chemistry are a promising candidate for the treatment of wastewaters contaminated by bacteria, due to their facile preparation, low-cost synthesis, and disinfection efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airborne fungi are widely distributed in the environment and may have adverse effects on human health. A 12-month survey on the diversity and concentration of culturable airborne fungi was carried out in a research and teaching building of Tianjin University. Indoor and outdoor environments were analyzed using an HAS-100B air sampler. A total of 667 fungal strains, belonging to 160 species and 73 genera were isolated and identified based on morphological and molecular analysis. The most abundant fungal genera were Alternaria (38.57%), Cladosporium (21.49%), and Aspergillus (5.34%), while the most frequently appearing species was A. alternata (21%), followed by A. tenuissima (12.4%), and C. cladosporioides (9.3%). The concentration of fungi in different environments ranged from 0 to 150 CFU/m3 and was significantly higher outdoor than indoor. Temperature and sampling month were significant factors influencing the whole building fungal community, while relative humidity and wind speed were highly correlated with fungal composition outdoor. Variations in the relative abundance of major airborne fungal taxa at different heights above-ground could lead to different community structures at different floors. Our results may provide valuable information for air quality monitoring and microbial pollution control in university building environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on a reasoned search for articles to treat contaminated water using hydroxyapatite (HAp)-based compounds. In addition, the fundamentals of heterogeneous photocatalysis were considered, combined with parameters that affect the pollutants' degradation using hydroxyapatite-based photocatalyst design and strategies of this photocatalyst, and the challenges of and perspectives on the development of these materials. Many critical applications have been analyzed to degrade dyes, drugs, and pesticides using HAp-based photocatalysts. This systematic review highlights the recent state-of-the-art advances that enable new paths and good-quality preparations of HAp-derived photocatalysts for photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of different irrigation and nitrogen (N) on morphogenetic and structural characteristics of Marandu grass (Brachiaria brizantha var. Marandu), were evaluated. The study was conducted in the experimental area of EMBRAPA Mid-North in Parnaíba, Piauí, Brazil. In design in randomized blocks, factorial 2 x 4, irrigation levels were tested (equivalent to replacement of 50% and 80% of pan evaporation Class "A") x nitrogen levels (16.7, 33.3, 50.0 and 66.7 kg N / cutting), with three replications. Sections were made every 30 days, a total of four cuts. The reduction in water depth decreases in sheet provided elongation rate, leaf appearance, final leaf length and number of green leaves, while the increased rate of senescence. Nitrogen fertilization rates increased elongation and leaf appearance, and the final leaf length, however, caused a reduction in the number of living leaves and the expansion rate of senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at evaluating the correlation between the free radical formation and the healing action of lower limbs’ ulcers in a randomized controlled trial with the use of an adhesive derived from natural latex associated with a light-emitting diode (LED) circuit. The sample consists of 15 participants with lower limb lesions divided into three groups: group 1 case (5 participants) received the proposed dressing system adhesive of the natural latex associated with the LED circuit; group 2 control (5 participants) received the dressings at home performed by nurses according to and established by the clinic of wounds (treated with calcium alginate or silver foam); and group 3 (5 participants) also received the dressing in their homes with the use of the dressing adhesive derived from the natural latex associated with the LED circuit. The collected data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by electron paramagnetic resonance for determination of free radical formation. Kruskal-Wallis statistical test was used to evaluate the effect of treatment on the lower limb’s ulcer cicatrization process and its correlation with free radical. The results obtained corroborated the hypothesis about the reduction of the quantity of these molecules in the end of treatment related to the healing wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]