Search

Copyright of Revista Eletrônica de Enfermagem is the property of Revista Eletronica de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Eletrônica de Enfermagem is the property of Revista Eletronica de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Eletrônica de Enfermagem is the property of Revista Eletronica de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Context: Nut-enriched diets have a positive impact on cardiovascular risk factors, such as body mass, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. However, studies in individuals undergoing secondary cardiovascular prevention show controversial results., Objective: This systematic review with meta-analysis assessed the effect of nut supplementation on anthropometric, glycemic, and blood pressure indices in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, as well as the frequency of adverse events., Data Sources: Six databases were used for the search-PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, BVS (Biblioteca Virtual da Saude), Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov-until February 2023, with no language restrictions., Data Extraction: The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions methodology and the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Setting/design) strategy were used. Seven independent reviewers were involved in data extraction and resolution of disagreements. Certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system., Data Analysis: From 5187 records identified, 6 publications containing data referring to 5 randomized clinical trials (n = 436) were included in the final analyses. The nuts evaluated were almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts, and mixed nuts, with portions that varied between 5 g and 85 g (median: 30 g/day). The intervention period varied between 6 and 12 weeks. The nuts had no effect on fasting glucose and anthropometric indices, although the certainty of the evidence for most of these outcomes was low or very low. They also had no effect on systolic (mean difference [MD]: -1.16 mmHg [95% CI, -5.68 to 3.35], I2 = 0%-moderate certainty of evidence) or diastolic (MD: 0.10 mmHg [95% CI, -2.30 to 2.51], I2 = 0%-high certainty of evidence) blood pressure. It was not possible to aggregate data on adverse events., Conclusion: Nut supplementation had no effect on blood pressure, fasting glucose, or anthropometric profile in the context of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease., Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020163456., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Life Sciences Institute. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

The Amazon region holds untapped potential with its starch-rich tubers, which are not yet industrialized and face a risk of extinction due to competition from widely cultivated crops. Beyond their traditional subsistence use, Amazonian tubers such as Mairá and Ariá can be utilized as starch sources, offering an opportunity to support regional agriculture, preserve indigenous heritage, and provide sustainable income streams. This study aimed to characterize starches extracted from Mairá (MPS) and Ariá (ARS for rhizome and APS for potato), focusing on their technological and functional potential. Following extraction (maceration, filtration, decantation, and drying), their structure and size were analyzed using SEM and optical microscopy. Amylose content was determined spectrophotometrically, while pasting and thermal properties were assessed using RVA and DSC techniques. They exhibited axial diameters of 18.9, 22.6, and 26.7 μm, with MPS, ARS, and APS displaying spherical, elliptical, and polygonal shapes, respectively. According to RVA results, MPS showed lower viscosity and paste stability compared to others, making it more suitable for products requiring minimal thickening. Ariá starches demonstrated a rapid retrogradation and the formation of opaque pastes, indicating potential applications in products requiring these characteristics. Starches from these Amazonian tubers present significant potential as thickening and gelling agents for the food industry, standing out for their safety in consumption and their role in preserving endangered species., Competing Interests: Declarations. Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2025. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Today, in a wide variety of industries, grinding operations are an extremely important finishing process for obtaining precise dimensions and meeting strict requirements for roughness and shape accuracy. However, the constant wear of abrasive tools during grinding negatively affects the dimensional and surface conditions of the workpiece. Therefore, effective monitoring of the wear process during grinding operations helps to predict tool life, plan maintenance and ensure consistent product quality., Aim of Review: The objective of this review is to examine current tool condition monitoring techniques, both direct and indirect, in various sensor systems and their application in both traditional and AI-driven grinding processes. By examining these techniques, the review provides insight into how different monitoring techniques can improve process efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve finished product quality, as well as the application of intelligent and adaptive processes to traditional grinding operations., Key Scientific Concepts of Review: The review discusses the critical role of sensor systems in monitoring tool condition, including technologies such as imaging, vibration analysis, acoustic emission, and force measurement. These systems are vital for detecting wear and predicting failures, allowing for timely interventions and preventing unplanned downtimes. The integration of artificial intelligence into these monitoring systems greatly enhances their capabilities, as they enable more proactive strategies and adapt to changing conditions during the grinding process., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2025. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Background/objectives: The optimal dietary approach for managing glycemic and metabolic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D) is still uncertain, though it should be tailored for clinical settings. Therefore, we sought to assess the impact of a multicomponent nutritional strategy on glycemic control in T2D patients within a public health system., Methods: NUGLIC was an open-label, parallel-group, superiority, multicenter randomized controlled trial. Participants aged 30 and older with poorly controlled T2D were randomly assigned to either (1) a personalized dietary prescription (control group, n = 185) or (2) a strategy involving targeted nutritional advising, mindfulness techniques, and short message services (NUGLIC [intervention] group, n = 186). The primary outcomes were glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c, %) measured after 24 weeks and glycemic control, defined as having an HbA1c > 7% at baseline and achieving ≤7% after follow-up, or having HbA1c ≤ 7% at baseline and reducing the use of glucose-lowering medications post-follow-up. The secondary outcomes included cardiometabolic features, self-care practices, diet quality, and quality of life., Results: A total of 371 participants were included in an intention-to-treat analysis for the primary outcomes. At six months, both groups exhibited a reduction in HbA1c levels compared to the baseline (NUGLIC group: -0.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) -0.9; -0.3], p < 0.001; control group: -0.5% [95% CI -0.7; -0.3], p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of HbA1c after follow-up (intervention group: 8.1%; control group: 8.3%; difference: -0.2% [95% CI -0.5; 0.1], p = 0.30) or glycemic control (NUGLIC group: 19.9%; control group: 18.9%; odds ratio 0.96 [95% CI 0.56; 1.67], p = 0.89). While the control group showed an improvement in overall diet quality, no significant differences emerged between the groups by the end of this study ( p = 0.13). There were also no significant differences in other secondary outcomes nor in the use of glucose-lowering medications and adverse events after follow-up., Conclusions: The multicomponent nutritional strategy did not demonstrate superiority over personalized dietary prescriptions in achieving glycemic control for participants with poorly managed T2D. In this sense, both nutritional interventions could be used in clinical practice to improve HbA1c levels, considering the profile and preferences of individuals.

Objective: An eucalyptus essential oil-based nanoemulsion was produced and evaluated for its antimicrobial properties against Streptococcus mutans and its cytotoxicity in the surface mucous cells of rabbits. Methods: The essential oil-based nanoemulsion was synthesized with two species of eucalyptus- Eucalyptus citriodora and Eucalyptus globulus -followed by physicochemical characterization and the determination of antimicrobial activity and cell viability. Subsequently, the mouthwash formulations (fluoride and fluoride-free) were functionalized with the nanoemulsion, and their in vitro antimicrobial actions were evaluated against S. mutans . Results: The nanoemulsion presented an average particle size of around 100 nm, a polydispersity index close to 0.3, a zeta potential between -19 and -30 mV, a pH close to 7, a spherical shape, and a cell viability above 50%. The antimicrobial activity analysis showed that the nanoemulsion was effective in the control of S. mutans. The mouthwashes functionalized with the nanoemulsion also presented bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. Conclusions: The bio-based material produced with eucalyptus essential oil presented adequate physicochemical characteristics, with the potential to be used as an innovative material in preventive dentistry, contributing to the maintenance of oral and systemic health.

Purpose: Nut-enriched diets are related to improve lipid and inflammatory biomarkers in meta-analyses in the context of primary cardiovascular prevention. However, primary studies on secondary cardiovascular prevention are scarce and controversial. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of nut supplementation on lipid and inflammatory profiles in individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and the frequency of adverse events., Methods: Six databases were used for research: PubMed, EMBASE, BVS, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov, until February 2023, with no language restrictions. We performed random-effects meta-analyses to compare nut-enriched diets vs. control diets for pre-post intervention changes. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system assessed the evidence's certainty., Results: From the 5187 records identified, eight publications containing data referring to five randomized clinical trials involving 439 participants were included in the final analyses. The nuts evaluated were almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts, and mixed nuts, with doses ranging between 5 g and 85 g (median: 30 g/day). The intervention time varied between 6 and 12 weeks. Compared to nut-free diets, nut intake did not have a statistically significant effect on lipid profile biomarkers, except on the atherogenic index (MD: -0.32 [95% CI -0.58 to -0.06], I 2  = 0% - moderate certainty of the evidence). Similarly, there was no effect of nuts on inflammatory profile biomarkers. It was not possible to aggregate data on adverse events., Conclusions: Nut supplementation did not change lipid and inflammatory profiles in the secondary cardiovascular prevention setting., (© 2024. Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Nuts consumption is related to cardioprotective effects on primary cardiovascular prevention, but studies conducted in secondary prevention are small, scarce and controversial. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the effects of a regional and sustainable cardioprotective diet added or not with an affordable mixed nuts on cardiometabolic features in patients with previous myocardial infarction., Methods: DICA-NUTS study is a national, multi-center, and superiority-parallel randomized clinical trial. Males and females over 40 years old diagnosed with previous myocardial infarction in the last 2 to 6 months were included. Patients were allocated into two groups: the Brazilian Cardioprotective diet (DICA Br) supplemented with 30 g/day of mixed nuts (10 g of peanuts; 10 g of cashew; 10 g of Brazil nuts) (intervention group, n = 193); or only DICA Br prescription (control group, n = 195). The primary outcome was low-density lipoprotein cholesterol means (in mg/dL) after 16 weeks. Secondary outcomes were other lipid biomarkers, glycemic and anthropometric data and diet quality., Results: After adjustment for baseline values, participating study site, time since myocardial infarction and statin treatment regimen (high potency, moderate and low potency/no statins), no significant difference was found between the groups in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations (intervention-control difference: 3.48 mg/dL [-3.45 to 10.41], P = 0.32). Both groups improved their overall diet quality at the end of the study without differences between them after 16 weeks (intervention-control difference: 1.05 (-0.9 to 2.99); P = 0.29). Other lipids, glycemic profile and anthropometrics were also not different between study groups at the end of the study., Conclusion: Adding 30 g/day of mixed nuts to the DICA Br for 16 weeks did not change lipid, glycemic and anthropometric features in the post-myocardial infarction setting., Trial Registration: This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov website under number NCT03728127 and its World Health Organization Universal Trial Number (WHO-UTN) is U1111-1259-8105., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

We investigate the H-theorem for a class of generalized kinetic equations with fractional time-derivative, hyperbolic term, and nonlinear diffusion. When the H-theorem is satisfied, we demonstrate that different entropic forms may emerge due to the equation's nonlinearity. We obtain the entropy production related to these entropies and show that its form remains invariant. Furthermore, we investigate some behaviors for these equations from both numerical and analytical perspectives, showing a large class of behaviors connected with anomalous diffusion and their effects on entropy.

This study investigated the effect of the timing of primary endodontic treatment and dosage of radiotherapy on the remaining filling material (RFM) during endodontic reintervention. 60 single-rooted human mandibular premolars were distributed into five groups (n = 12), according to the timing and dosage of radiation (55Gy or 70Gy): NegativeCG-non-irradiated teeth; Endo-pre-RT 55/70 -obturation before irradiation (55Gy or 70Gy); Endo-post-RT 55/70 -obturation and reintervention after irradiation (55Gy or 70Gy). Roots were cleaved and analysed under stereomicroscope and Scanning Electron Microscope to quantify (%) the RFM. Experimental groups had a significantly greater amount (p < 0.05) of RFM in the middle and apical thirds than the control group, except for Endo-pre-RT 55 in the middle third (p < 0.0001). The apical third had greater amount of RFM (p < 0.05). Radiation therapy, before and after primary endodontic treatment, increased the amount of RFM, regardless of the dose delivered. When necessary, reintervention preferably must be performed before radiation therapy., (© 2024 Australian Society of Endodontology Inc.)

To evaluate the effect of ultrasonic activation of the endodontic sealer on its intratubular penetration and bond strength to irradiated root dentin. Forty human teeth were distributed into 4 groups (n = 10), according to the radiation therapy (RT) exposure-70 Gy-and ultrasonic activation (UA) of the endodontic sealer: RT/UA-irradiated teeth and sealer UA; RT/no-UA-irradiated teeth and no sealer UA; no-RT/UA-non-irradiated teeth and sealer UA and no-RT/no-UA-non-irradiated teeth and no sealer UA. Push-out bond strength test was performed in a Universal Testing Machine. Failure modes and adhesive interface were analyzed under Scanning Electron Microscopy. The data were statistically compared (two-way-ANOVA and posthoc Games-Howell test; Fisher's exact test - α = 5%). The different experimental conditions (radiation and UA) and the root third had a significant effect on push-out bond strength, and the interaction of these factors was significant (p < 0.05). UA of the sealer significantly increased its bond strength to both irradiated and non-irradiated dentin (p < 0.05). The irradiated groups mostly presented adhesive-type failure of the sealer (p < 0.01). Regardless of the irradiation, the ultrasonically activated groups showed a more homogeneous adhesive interface, with the presence of sealer tags in greater density and depth. Ultrasonic activation enhanced the intratubular penetration and the bond strength of the endodontic sealer to irradiated dentin. The impact of ultrasonic activation of the endodontic sealer on teeth undergoing radiotherapy is a gap in the scientific literature that needs to be bridged., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to The Society of The Nippon Dental University.)

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a nutritional strategy based on two components and adapted for the public health system on blood pressure, cardiometabolic features, self-care, qualify of life and diet quality in individuals with hypertension., Methods: NUPRESS was an open-label, parallel-group, superiority randomized controlled clinical trial in which participants at least 21 years with hypertension and poorly controlled blood pressure were randomly assigned (1 : 1 allocation ratio) to either an individualized dietary prescription according to nutritional guidelines (control group, n  = 205); or a two-component nutrition strategy, including a goal-directed nutritional counseling and mindfulness techniques (NUPRESS [intervention] group, n  = 205). Primary outcomes were SBP (mmHg) after 24 weeks of follow up and blood pressure control, defined as either having SBP more than 140 mmHg at baseline and achieving 140 mmHg or less after follow-up or having SBP 140 mmHg or less at baseline and reducing the frequency of antihypertensive drugs in use after follow-up., Results: In total, 410 participants were randomized and submitted to an intention-to-treat analysis regarding primary outcomes. Both groups decreased blood pressure, but after adjusting for baseline values, there was no significant difference between them on SBP [intervention-control difference: -0.03 (-3.01; 2.94); P  = 0.98] nor blood pressure control [odds ratio 1.27 (0.82; 1.97); P  = 0.28]. No differences between groups were also detected regarding secondary and tertiary outcomes., Conclusion: There was no difference between a two-component nutritional strategy and an established dietary intervention on blood pressure in participants with hypertension., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Natural fiber reinforcements have the potential to enhance mechanical properties, thereby improving performance and durability in various applications. In this study, we comprehensively evaluated the impact of environmental degradation over 120 days on reprocessed polypropylene (PP) reinforced with corn husk fiber (CHF) composites. The manufactured systems underwent rigorous analysis using various techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and tensile testing. These analyses revealed that climatic conditions significantly influenced ( p < 0.05) the mechanical properties of all systems. Photodegradation led to surface morphological changes and chemical structures. Regardless, adding CHF filler proved a key factor, as it allowed for less susceptibility to environmental degradation than the reprocessed matrix. These findings, therefore, provide robust evidence supporting the feasibility of using CHF composites for manufacturing agricultural containers.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mediation role of muscle quantity in the relationship between physical fitness and cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRF) in adolescents. This cross-sectional study conducted with 120 adolescents of both sexes, aged between 10 and 17 years. Body mass, height, fat mass (FM), lean mass, blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, glucose, insulin, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and 1 repetition maximum strength (1-RM) with evaluation of the leg press 45° (RM-leg), bench press (RM-bench) and arm curl (RM-arm). Body mass index z-score, appendicular skeletal muscle mass, appendicular skeletal muscle mass index, lean mass index (LMI), muscle-to-fat ratio (MFR), age at peak height velocity, and CMRF z-score were calculated. The direct relation between FM and CMRF was mediated by the LMI (26%) and inverse relation between CRF and CMRF was mediated by the LMI (26%). For girls, the direct relation between FM and CMRF was mediated by the LMI (32%); the inverse relation between CRF, RM-leg, RM-arm and CMRF was mediated by the LMI (32%, 33%, and 32%, respective). For boys, the indirect effect was not significant, indicating that LMI is not a mediator in the relation between FM, CRF, 1-RM with CMRF. The direct relation between RM-leg and CMRF was mediated by the MRF (16%). This finding evidenced the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle to improve physical fitness levels and the quantity of muscle mass in adolescents., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Blood plasma is the main source of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in clinical studies aiming to identify biomarkers and to investigate pathophysiological processes, especially regarding EV roles in inflammation and thrombosis. However, EV isolation from plasma has faced the fundamental issue of lipoprotein contamination, representing an important bias since lipoproteins are highly abundant and modulate cell signaling, metabolism, and thromboinflammation., Objectives: Here, we aimed to isolate plasma EVs after depleting lipoproteins, thereby improving sample purity and EV thromboinflammatory analysis., Methods: Density-based gradient ultracentrifugation (G-UC) was used for lipoprotein depletion before EV isolation from plasma through size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) or serial centrifugation (SC). Recovered EVs were analyzed by size, concentration, cellular source, ultrastructure, and bottom-up proteomics., Results: G-UC efficiently separated lipoproteins from the plasma, allowing subsequent EV isolation through SEC or SC. Combined analysis from EV proteomics, cholesterol quantification, and apoB-100 detection confirmed the significant reduction in lipoproteins from isolated EVs. Proteomic analysis identified similar gene ontology and cellular components in EVs, regardless of lipoprotein depletion, which was consistent with similar EV cellular sources, size, and ultrastructure by flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy. Importantly, lipoprotein depletion increased the detection of less abundant proteins in EV proteome and enhanced thromboinflammatory responses of platelets and monocytes stimulated in vitro with EV isolates., Conclusion: Combination of G-UC+SEC significantly reduced EV lipoprotein contamination without interfering in EV cellular source, gene ontology, and ultrastructure, allowing the recovery of highly pure EVs with potential implications for functional assays and proteomic and lipidomic analyses., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interests There are no conflicting interests to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The Carnian (Upper Triassic) rocks of the Candelária Sequence present a rich record of dinosaurs, including some of the oldest known dinosaurs worldwide. In this contribution we describe the first unequivocal dinosaur from the Pivetta site, located in the Restinga Sêca municipality, Southern Brazil. The specimen CAPPA/UFSM 0373 is an isolated but well-preserved left ilium. A thorough examination of the specimen's anatomy and a phylogenetic analysis provides evidence that CAPPA/UFSM 0373 belongs to the Herrerasauria. We were able to identify several similarities with potential non-herrerasaurid herrerasaurians (e.g., Tawa hallae, "Caseosaurus crosbyensis"), which were previously only known from North American deposits. In contrast, herrerasaurids (e.g., Herrerasaurus ischigualastensis) are almost exclusively known from South America. Our results support the nesting of CAPPA/UFSM 0373 as an early-diverging herrerasaurian. Furthermore, this is potentially the first record of a non-herrerasaurid herrerasaurian in unambiguous Carnian beds, suggesting a hidden diversity of dinosaurs in the Carnian rocks of the Candelária Sequence, which can be revealed even by fragmentary specimens., (© 2023 American Association for Anatomy.)

Background: Histoplasmosis is the second most frequent granulomatous disease in patients treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors, second only to tuberculosis. However, there is limited information about pre-therapy screening procedures and the need for preventive treatments for patients who will start immunobiologicals., Methods: This is a cohort study that evaluated the prevalence of histoplasmosis in asymptomatic HIV-negative patients before initiation of TNF-α inhibitors by testing for Histoplasma antigen in urine samples. The patients included completed a 180-day follow-up after the initiation of the biologics to assess the onset of symptoms suggestive of histoplasmosis., Results: From January 2021 to December 2022, 54 patients who were prescribed a TNF-α inhibitor agent for treating autoimmune diseases in centers in southern Brazil were included. In the screening before therapy, the prevalence of a positive urinary Histoplasma antigen test was 14.8%. None of the 54 patients developed histoplasmosis after 6 months of immunobiological therapy, including the eight patients who tested positive., Conclusion: The prevalence of Histoplasma capsulatum infection in chronic patients may be higher than expected, but the impact of latent infection in asymptomatic patients is still uncertain, including those starting treatment with immunobiological drugs such as TNF-α inhibitors. Our study did not identify risk factors for the diagnosis of disseminated histoplasmosis in this group, including a positive result in an antigen test performed before immunobiological therapy. To date, there is no evidence to recommend routine antigen-based screening or preventive therapy for histoplasmosis before initiating a TNF-α inhibitor., (© The Author(s), 2024.)

Gold nanoclusters have attracted significant attention due to their unique physical-chemical properties, which can be tuned by alloying with elements such as Cu, Pd, Ag, and Pt to design materials for various applications. Although Au-nanoalloys have promising applications, our atomistic understanding of the descriptors that drive their stability is far from satisfactory. To address this problem, we considered 55-atom model nanoalloys that have been synthesized by experimental techniques. Here, we combined data mining techniques for creating a large sample of representative configurations, density functional theory for performing total energy optimizations, and Spearman correlation analyses to identify the most important descriptors. Among our results, we have identified trends in core-shell formation in the AuCu and AuPd systems and an onion-like design in the AuAg system, characterized by the aggregation of gold atoms on nanocluster surfaces. These features are explained by Au's surface energy, packing efficiency, and charge transfer mechanisms, which are enhanced by the alloys' preference for adopting the structure of the alloying metal rather than the low-symmetry one presented by Au55. These generalizations provide insights into the interplay between electronic and structural properties in gold nanoalloys, contributing to the understanding of their stabilization mechanisms and potential applications in various fields., (© 2023 Author(s). Published under an exclusive license by AIP Publishing.)

We study the entropy production in a fractal system composed of two subsystems, each of which is subjected to an external force. This is achieved by using the H-theorem on the nonlinear Fokker-Planck equations (NFEs) characterizing the diffusing dynamics of each subsystem. In particular, we write a general NFE in terms of Hausdorff derivatives to take into account the metric of each system. We have also investigated some solutions from the analytical and numerical point of view. We demonstrate that each subsystem affects the total entropy and how the diffusive process is anomalous when the fractal nature of the system is considered.

Organophosphate pesticides are widely used in agriculture, leading to soil, water, and food contamination. Among these compounds is Dichlorvos [O,O-dimethyl O-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)phosphate, DDVP], which is listed as a highly toxic compound by the Environmental Protection Agency and World Health Organization. Exposure to DDVP can result in nervous, respiratory, hepatic, and reproductive abnormalities, in addition to endocrine disrupting, mutagenic, and carcinogenic effects. Little is known about the impacts of DDVP on the reprogramming of lipid metabolism, which is also associated with the development and progression of cancer, since the tumor cells need to recruit, capture, and use fatty acids to compose their building membranes. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the pesticide DDVP on lipid metabolism in the prostate, after chemical induction by the carcinogen N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU). For this, 32 Fischer rats aged 90 days were randomly divided into four experimental groups: Control, DDVP, MNU, and MNU + DDVP. The MNU and MNU + DDVP groups underwent chemical induction with MNU (15 mg/kg) and the DDVP and MNU + DDVP groups received a diet supplemented with DDVP (10 mg/kg). Histopathological analyses of the rat ventral prostate showed 100% incidence of epithelial hyperplasia in the MNU and MNU + DDVP groups. This finding was accompanied by an increase of the epithelial compartment in the MNU + DDVP group. Immunolocalization of important proteins linked to lipid metabolism has been established. In the MNU + DDVP group, Western blotting analyses pointed out an increased expression of the protein LIMP II (Lysosomal Integral Membrane Protein-II), which is correlated with the capture and distribution of lipids in tumor cells. Together, these results indicate that the association of a low dose of DDVP with MNU was able to promote alterations in the morphology and lipid metabolism of the rat ventral prostate, which may be related to tumor progression in this organ., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Quintino-Ottonicar, Silva, Maria, Pizzo, Santana, Lenharo, Pinho and Pereira.)

Biting midges of the genus Culicoides are insects of proven medical and veterinary importance, because of their role in the transmission of viruses, bacteria, protozoa and nematodes. Culicoides paraensis has been considered the main vector of the Oropouche Virus (OROV) in the urban cycle of the disease in the neotropics. Due to the great abundance of Culicoides spp. in the State of Rondônia and its epidemiological history of OROV, we investigated the biting activity in humans, the abundance as a function of meteorological parameters and seasonality, and the detection of OROV. Entomological collections occurred in three municipalities from Brazilian State of Rondônia: Porto Velho, Ariquemes, and Ouro Preto do Oeste. GLMM's were used to determine if Culicoides spp. abundance was predicted by seasonal, diurnal, and meteorological factors. Total RNA was extracted from insects and viral RNA detection was performed using the S segment as the target region of OROV via RT-qPCR. In total, 7315 individuals were captured and identified as C. paraensis. In the dry season, 1488 individuals (24.5%) were recorded, 4591 (75.5%) in the rainy season, with peaks of biting activity between 4pm and 6pm. All variables showed a significative effect on the midge abundance. The rainy season, temperature between 30 °C and 32 °C and relative air humidity between 75% and 85% were the main predictive parameters for capturing the highest average number of insects. Our results confirm diurnal activity of C. paraensis and its greatest abundance in rainy periods. No sample was positive for the OROV, which could be explained by the virus absence in local human populations, C. paraensis as a minor vector species in the sampled localities, and probable low rate of infection of biting midges. Our findings on hourly and seasonal biting activities can provide support to intervention actions regarding vector control and surveillance of this species. This was the first study to collect and analyze biting midges in a region where human OROV cases had already been detected, but without previous information on entomovirological surveillance., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Mosquitoes are vectors of many pathogens, including viruses, protozoans, and helminths, spreading these pathogens to humans as well as to wild and domestic animals. As the identification of species and the biological characterization of mosquito vectors are cornerstones for understanding patterns of disease transmission, and the design of control strategies, we conducted a literature review on the current use of noninvasive and nondestructive techniques for pathogen detection in mosquitoes, highlighting the importance of their taxonomic status and systematics, and some gaps in the knowledge of their vectorial capacity. Here, we summarized the alternative techniques for pathogen detection in mosquitoes based on both laboratory and field studies. Parasite infection and dissemination by mosquitoes can also be obtained via analyses of saliva- and excreta-based techniques or of the whole mosquito body, using a near-infrared spectrometry (NIRS) approach. Further research should be encouraged to seek strategies for detecting target pathogens while preserving mosquito morphology, especially in biodiversity hotspot regions, thus enabling the discovery of cryptic or new species, and the determination of more accurate taxonomic, parasitological, and epidemiological patterns.

Objective: This study aimed to compare the influence of a high carbohydrate meal versus high-fat meal on the oxidation of substrates during an exercise incremental test., Materials and Methods: Ten untrained male subjects underwent two days of the protocol. Randomly, they received a high carbohydrate meal or a high-fat meal, receiving the other one in the next protocol. On both days, they performed an incremental treadmill test, with heart rate and maximal oxygen consumption to estimate the oxidation of substrates., Results: The high-fat meal showed an increase in the absolute amount of oxidized fat along with the incremental test ( P < 0.05; effect size = 0.9528), and a reduction in the respiratory exchange ratio at low intensities ( P < 0.05; effect size = 0.7765)., Conclusion: The meals presented no difference when compared to maximum oxidation point of substrates, the oxidation rate of substrates over time, and heart rate. A pre-test high-fat meal in untrained individuals was shown to be a modulating factor of total oxidized fats throughout the exercise, although it did not exert a significant effect on the rate of this oxidation over time.

Background Aims: Although bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have demonstrated success in pre-clinical studies, they have shown only mild therapeutic effects in clinical trials. Hypoxia pre-conditioning may optimize the performance of bone marrow-derived MSCs because it better reflects the physiological conditions of their origin. It is not known whether changes in the protein profile caused by hypoxia in MSCs can be extended to the extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from them. The aim of this study was to evaluate the proteomics profile of MSCs and their EVs under normoxic and hypoxic conditions., Methods: Bone marrow-derived MSCs were isolated from six healthy male Wistar rats. After achieving 80% confluence, MSCs were subjected to normoxia (MSC-Norm) (21% oxygen, 5% carbon dioxide, 74% nitrogen) or hypoxia (MSC-Hyp) (1% oxygen, 5% carbon dioxide, 94% nitrogen) for 48 h. Cell viability and oxygen consumption rate were assessed. EVs were extracted from MSCs for each condition (EV-Norm and EV-Hyp) by ultracentrifugation. Total proteins were isolated from MSCs and EVs and prepared for mass spectrometry. EVs were characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis. Proteomics data were analyzed by PatternLab 4.0, Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins, Gene Ontology, MetaboAnalyst and Reactome software., Results: Cell viability was higher in MSC-Hyp than MSC-Norm (P = 0.007). Basal respiration (P = 0.001), proton leak (P = 0.004) and maximal respiration (P = 0.014) were lower in MSC-Hyp than MSC-Norm, and no changes in adenosine triphosphate-linked and residual respiration were observed. The authors detected 2177 proteins in MSC-Hyp and MSC-Norm, of which 147 were identified in only MSC-Hyp and 512 were identified in only MSC-Norm. Furthermore, 718 proteins were identified in EV-Hyp and EV-Norm, of which 293 were detected in only EV-Hyp and 30 were detected in only EV-Norm. Both MSC-Hyp and EV-Hyp showed enrichment of pathways and biological processes related to glycolysis, the immune system and extracellular matrix organization., Conclusions: MSCs subjected to hypoxia showed changes in their survival and metabolic activity. In addition, MSCs under hypoxia released more EVs, and their content was related to expression of regulatory proteins of the immune system and extracellular matrix organization. Because of the upregulation of proteins involved in glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glucose uptake during hypoxia, production of reactive oxygen species and expression of immunosuppressive properties may be affected., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors have no commercial, proprietary or financial interest in the products or companies described in this article., (Copyright © 2022 International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: The research for alternative irrigating solutions is ongoing, since no "ideal" solution has yet been found. Octenidine dihydrochloride (OCT) has been indicated as an endodontic irrigant because it has adequate antimicrobial and biological properties. The present study aimed to assess the effects of OCT on proliferation, migration, and induction of the osteogenic phenotype of stem cells from human dental pulp and apical papilla., Methods: Cells were collected from human third molars and exposed to different doses of OCT, chlorhexidine (CHX), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) to determine cell viability by alamarBlue assay; proliferation by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation; migration by the Transwell assay; alkaline phosphatase activity by thymolphthalein release; and production of mineralized nodules by alizarin red staining. The results were analyzed by 1- or 2-way analysis of variance and Tukey (α = .05)., Results: CHX promoted lower cell viability, followed by OCT, NaOCl, and EDTA, especially at intermediate doses (P < .05). Cells exposed to CHX had less proliferation than the other groups (P < .05). The Transwell assay revealed no differences among OCT, EDTA, and culture medium (control group) (P > .05). OCT and EDTA induced greater migration than CHX and NaOCl (P < .05). OCT and EDTA induced higher alkaline phosphatase activity than NaOCl and CHX (P < .05). No difference was detected among the groups using alizarin red staining (P > .05)., Conclusions: OCT induced high migration, proliferation, and alkaline phosphatase activity of stem cells from human dental pulp and apical papilla, which could be advantageous for regenerative endodontic procedures., (Copyright © 2022 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Two sets of teeth (diphyodonty) characterise extant mammals but not reptiles, as they generate many replacement sets (polyphyodonty). The transition in long-extinct species from many sets to only two has to date only been reported in Jurassic eucynodonts. Specimens of the Late Triassic brasilodontid eucynodont Brasilodon have provided anatomical and histological data from three lower jaws of different growth stages. These reveal ordered and timed replacement of deciduous by adult teeth. Therefore, this diphyodont dentition, as contemporary of the oldest known dinosaurs, shows that Brasilodon falls within a range of wide variations of typically mammalian, diphyodont dental patterns. Importantly, these three lower jaws represent distinct ontogenetic stages that reveal classic features for timed control of replacement, by the generation of only one replacement set of teeth. This data shows that the primary premolars reveal a temporal replacement pattern, importantly from directly below each tooth, by controlled regulation of tooth resorption and regeneration. The complexity of the adult prismatic enamel structure with a conspicuous intra-structural Schmelzmuster array suggests that, as in the case of extant mammals, this extinct species would have probably sustained higher metabolic rates than reptiles. Furthermore, in modern mammals, diphyodonty and prismatic enamel are inextricably linked, anatomically and physiologically, to a set of other traits including placentation, endothermy, fur, lactation and even parental care. Our analysis of the osteodental anatomy of Brasilodon pushes back the origin of diphyodonty and consequently, its related biological traits to the Norian (225.42 ± 0.37 myr), and around 25 myr after the End-Permian mass extinction event., (© 2022 Anatomical Society.)

Biodiesel can be produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, frying oils, and from microorganism-synthesized oils. These sources render biodiesel an easily biodegradable fuel. The aim of this work was to perform an advanced bibliometric analysis of primary studies relating to biodiesel production worldwide by identifying the key countries and regions that have shown a strong engagement in this area, and by understanding the dynamics of their collaboration and research outputs. Additionally, an assessment of the main primary feedstocks employed in this research was carried out, along with an analysis of the current and future trends that are expected to define new paths and methodologies to be used in the manufacture of biodegradable and renewable fuels. A total of 4586 academic outputs were selected, including peer-reviewed research articles, conference papers, and literature reviews related to biodiesel production, in the time period spanning from 2010 to 2021. Articles that focused on feedstocks for the production of biodiesel were also included, with a search that returned 330 papers. Lastly, 60 articles relating to biodiesel production via sewage were specifically included to allow for an analysis of this source as a promising feedstock in the future of the biofuel market. Via the geocoding and the document analyses performed, we concluded that China, Malaysia, and India are the largest writers of articles in this area, revealing a great interest in biofuels in Asia. Additionally, it was noted that environmental concerns have caused authors to conduct research on feedstocks that can address the sustainability challenges in the production of biodiesel.

Background and Purpose: Conventional magnetic resonance images (MRI) has limitations in distinguishing primary from secondary brain tumors. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( 1 H-MRS) allows evaluation of the concentration of metabolites in a brain lesion and, hence, better characterization of the tumor. Considering that an accurate diagnosis determines the choice of treatment, our purpose was to assess the usefulness of spectroscopy data for differentiating between primary and secondary brain neoplasms., Materials and Methods: We undertook a retrospective analysis of 61 MRI and 1 H-MRS images of patients with histologically confirmed tumors (30 primary tumors and 31 metastatic tumors). The metabolite ratios of Cho/Cr and NAA/Cr at short TE were determined from spectroscopic curves, with a single voxel positioned in the enhancing tumor. Additional variables analyzed along with the metabolites, like as age and gender, allowed the construction of a logistic regression model to predict the tumor's nature. The statistical analysis was done using the R software (version 4.0.3 R Core Team, 2020)., Results: The mean NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios were higher in secondary tumors, with a good correlation between NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr (r = 0.61). The mean age of patients with primary tumors was lower than for secondary tumors (43.9 vs 55.9, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic analysis yielded a cut-off value of 0.4 for the NAA/Cr ratio with an accuracy of 73.8%, a sensitivity of 73.3% and a specificity of 74.2% in predicting metastatic tumors., Conclusion: The model was reasonable in predicting the nature of the tumor and provides an additional tool for analyzing brain tumors.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence on MMP inhibition, dentin adhesion and physicochemical properties of an adhesive system incorporated with polymerizable collagen crosslinker monomer derived from cardanol., Methods: The intermediary cardanol epoxy (CNE) was synthesized through cardanol epoxidation, followed by synthesis of cardanol methacrylate through methacrylic acid solvent-free esterification. Zymographic analysis was performed to evaluate the substances' ability to inhibit gelatinolytic enzymes. Collagen crosslinkers were added into adhesives systems according to the following groups: Ybond Universal® (Control), Ybond® + 2 % proanthocyanidin (PAC), Ybond® + 2 % unsaturated cardanol (Cardanol) and Ybond® + 2 % cardanol methacrylate (CNMA). Degree of conversion (DC) of the adhesives was assessed by FT-IR. Disk-shaped specimens were prepared for water sorption (WS) and solubility (SL) tests. Human third molars were sectioned to expose medium dentin and restored according to the different adhesives used (n = 5). Then, the specimens were cut into 1 mm 2 sticks to evaluate, after 24 h and 6-month aging, microtensile bond strength (µTBS) and nanoleakage by scanning electron microscopy. Data were analysed with ANOVA and Tukey's post-test (α = 0.05)., Results: CNMA and PAC completely inhibited all forms of gelatinolytic enzymes. Cardanol achieved a significantly lowest DC, while the other groups did not differ from each other (p > 0.05). PAC achieved significantly higher water sorption, while CNMA solubility was significantly lower when compared to the other adhesives (p < 0.05). PAC provided a statistically higher 24 h and 6-month aging bond strength. Intermediary similar µTBS were presented by control and CNMA (p = 0.108). All adhesives applied attained significantly reduced bond strength after aging (p < 0.05). Interfaces created using CNMA were almost devoid of silver deposits initially, however all groups showed large amounts of silver deposits on resin-dentin interface subjected to water aging., Significance: Although CNMA was effective in inhibiting gelatinolytic enzymes, when incorporated into a universal adhesive it could not promote less degradation of the adhesive interface after water aging. Since it is a hydrophobic monomer, CNMA did not interact well with dentin collagen, however it reduced the solubility of the adhesive system besides not interfering in its polymerization., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Continuous vector surveillance and sustainable interventions are mandatory in order to prevent anopheline proliferation (or spread to new areas) and interrupt malaria transmission. Anopheline abundance and richness were evaluated in urban and peri-urban malaria foci at a medium-sized city in the Brazilian Amazon, comparing the protected human landing catch technique (PHLC) and alternative sampling methods over different seasonal periods. Additional information was assessed for female feeding behaviour and faunal composition., Methods: Anophelines were sampled bimonthly in four urban and peri-urban sites in the city of Porto Velho, state of Rondônia, Brazil. The average number of captured mosquitoes was compared between an PHLC (gold standard), a tent trap (Gazetrap), and a barrier screen by means of generalized linear mixed models (GLMM), which also included season and environment (peri-urban/urban) as predictors., Results: Overall, 2962 Anopheles individuals belonging to 12 species and one complex were caught; Anopheles darlingi represented 86% of the individuals. More mosquitoes were captured in the peri-urban setting, and the urban setting was more diverse. The model estimates that significantly more anophelines were collected by PHLC than by the Screen method, and Gazetrap captured fewer individuals. However, the Screen technique yielded more blood-engorged females. The peak hours of biting activity were from 6 to 7 p.m. in urban areas and from 7 to 8 p.m. in peri-urban areas., Conclusions: Although peri-urban settings presented a greater abundance of anophelines, Shannon and Simpson diversities were higher in urban sites. Each technique proved to be useful, depending on the purpose: PHLC was more effective in capturing the highest anopheline densities, Gazetrap caught the greatest number of species, and the barrier screen technique captured more engorged individuals. There was no seasonal effect on Anopheles assemblage structure; however, a more diverse fauna was caught in the transitional season. Biting activity was more intense from 6 to 8 p.m., with a predominance of An. darlingi., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Objective: Parkinson's disease (PD) patients may be categorized into tremor-dominant (TD) and postural-instability and gait disorder (PIGD) motor phenotypes, but the dynamical aspects of subthalamic nucleus local field potentials (STN-LFP) and the neural correlates of this phenotypical classification remain unclear., Methods: 35 STN-LFP (20 PIGD and 15 TD) were investigated through continuous wavelet transform and machine-learning-based methods. The beta oscillation - the main band associated with motor impairment in PD - dynamics was characterized through beta burst parameters across phenotypes and burst intervals under specific proposed criteria for optimal burst threshold definition., Results: Low-frequency (13-22 Hz) beta burst probability was the best predictor for PD phenotypes (75% accuracy). PIGD patients presented higher average burst duration (p = 0.018), while TD patients exhibited higher burst probability (p = 0.014). Categorization into shorter and longer than 400 ms bursts led to significant interaction between burst length categories and the phenotypes (p < 0.050) as revealed by mixed-effects models. Long burst durations and short bursts probability positively correlated, respectively, with rigidity-bradykinesia (p = 0.029) and tremor (p = 0.038) scores., Conclusions: Subthalamic low-frequency beta bursts differed between TD and PIGD phenotypes and correlated with motor symptoms., Significance: These findings improve the PD phenotypes' electrophysiological characterization and may define new criteria for adaptive deep brain stimulation., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a valuable source of biomarkers and display the pathophysiological status of various diseases. In COVID-19, EVs have been explored in several studies for their ability to reflect molecular changes caused by SARS-CoV-2. Here we provide insights into the roles of EVs in pathological processes associated with the progression and severity of COVID-19., Methods: In this study, we used a label-free shotgun proteomic approach to identify and quantify alterations in EV protein abundance in severe COVID-19 patients. We isolated plasma extracellular vesicles from healthy donors and patients with severe COVID-19 by size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Then, flow cytometry was performed to assess the origin of EVs and to investigate the presence of circulating procoagulant EVs in COVID-19 patients. A total protein extraction was performed, and samples were analyzed by nLC-MS/MS in a Q-Exactive HF-X. Finally, computational analysis was applied to signify biological processes related to disease pathogenesis., Results: We report significant changes in the proteome of EVs from patients with severe COVID-19. Flow cytometry experiments indicated an increase in total circulating EVs and with tissue factor (TF) dependent procoagulant activity. Differentially expressed proteins in the disease groups were associated with complement and coagulation cascades, platelet degranulation, and acute inflammatory response., Conclusions: The proteomic data reinforce the changes in the proteome of extracellular vesicles from patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and suggest a role for EVs in severe COVID-19., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Moraes, Martins-Gonçalves, Silva, Mandacaru, Melo, Azevedo-Quintanilha, Perales, Bozza, Souza, Castro-Faria-Neto, Hottz, Bozza and Trugilho.)

Purunã is a composite beef cattle breed, developed in Southern Brazil by crossing the Angus, Charolais, Canchim, and Caracu breeds. The goal of this study was to perform the first genetic characterization of the Purunã breed, based on both pedigree and genomic information. For this, 100 randomly selected animals were genotyped, and 11,205 animals born from 1997 to 2019 had pedigree information. The genetic analyses performed were principal component analysis, admixture, phylogenic tree, pedigree and genomic inbreeding, linkage disequilibrium (LD), effective population size (Ne), consistency of the gametic phase, runs of homozygosity (ROH), heterozygosity-enriched regions (HERs), and functional analyses of the ROH and HER regions identified. Our findings indicate that Purunã is more genetically related to the Charolais, Canchim, and Angus breeds than Caracu or Nellore. The levels of inbreeding were shown to be small based on all the metrics evaluated and ranged from -0.009 to 0.029. A low (-0.12-0.31) correlation of the pedigree-based inbreeding compared to all the genomic inbreeding coefficients evaluated was observed. The LD average was 0.031 (±0.0517), and the consistency of the gametic phase was shown to be low for all the breed pairs, ranging from 0.42 to 0.27 to the distance of 20 Mb. The Ne values based on pedigree and genomic information were 158 and 115, respectively. A total of 1,839 ROHs were found, and the majority of them are of small length (<4 Mb). An important homozygous region was identified on BTA5 with pathways related to behavioral traits (sensory perception, detection of stimulus, and others), as well as candidate genes related to heat tolerance ( MY O 1A ), feed conversion rate ( RDH5 ), and reproduction ( AMDHD1 ). A total of 1,799 HERs were identified in the Purunã breed with 92.3% of them classified within the 0.5-1 Mb length group, and 19 HER islands were identified in the autosomal genome. These HER islands harbor genes involved in growth pathways, carcass weight ( SDCBP ), meat and carcass quality ( MT2A ), and marbling deposition ( CISH ). Despite the genetic relationship between Purunã and the founder breeds, a multi-breed genomic evaluation is likely not feasible due to their population structure and low consistency of the gametic phase among them., Competing Interests: Author LD is employed by the company NEOGEN Corporation. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Mulim, Brito, Batista Pinto, Moletta, Da Silva and Pedrosa.)

Sulfated polysaccharides (SPs) from seaweeds are potential bioactive natural compounds, but their DNA protective activity is poorly explored. This article aimed to evaluate the genotoxic/antigenotoxic potentials of a sulfated heterofucan from brown seaweed Spatoglossum schröederi (Fucan A - FA) and a sulfated galactan from green seaweed Codium isthomocladum (3G4S) using in vitro Comet assay (alkaline and oxidative versions) with HepG2 cells. The antioxidant activity of these SPs was evaluated by total antioxidant capacity, radical scavenging, metal chelating, and antioxidant enzyme activity assays. Both SPs were not genotoxic. FA and 3G4S displayed strong antigenotoxic activity against oxidizing chemical (H 2 O 2 ) but not against alkylating chemical (MMS). The DNA damage reduction after a pre-treatment of 72 h with these SPs was 81.42% to FA and 81.38% to 3G4S. In simultaneous exposure to FA or 3G4S with H 2 O 2 , HepG2 cells presented 48.04% and 55.41% of DNA damage reduction compared with the control, respectively. The antigenotoxicity of these SPs relates to direct antioxidant activity by blockage of the initiation step of the oxidative chain reaction. Therefore, we conclude that FA and 3G4S could be explored as functional natural compounds with antigenotoxic activity due to their great protection against oxidative DNA damage., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Chiasmal syndromes present mostly with visual problems, such as changes in visual fields, decreased visual acuity, or dyschromatopsia (and classically without pupillary reflex defects). The prototypical bitemporal hemianopia upon visual field testing can easily suggest chiasmal compression due to sellar/suprasellar involvement. However, because of the complexity of the decussation of fibres at the optic chiasm and the presence of anatomical variants, unpredictable visual fields defects can be detected in chiasmal diseases. In some patients, especially in those who have undergone neurosurgical procedures, visual field examination and neuroimaging may not completely reflect the classical pattern of chiasmal visual loss. We describe a novel semiological sign, reporting a patient in which a pupillary bitemporal hemihypokinesia was not accompanied by hemianopia, with the phenomenon being abolished by surgical resection of the causative pituitary macroadenoma. In addition, this finding was an important tool in making the diagnosis., (© 2022 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.)

We aimed to investigate whether the expression levels and polymorphisms in the ADRB2 gene have influenced the anthropometric and cardiometabolic outcomes changes in obese/overweight children submitted to physical exercise programs. This longitudinal study included 197 overweight or obese children aged 10-16 years, submitted to physical exercise programs - three sessions per week for 12 weeks. Anthropometric and cardiometabolic profile was collected before and after interventions. The ADRB2 gene expression levels were also measured in these two moments in a small intervention group (n = 17) and a control group (n = 18). Arg16Gly and Gln27Glu polymorphisms were genotyped. A positive correlation between ADRB2 expression and loss of body fat (%) (p = 0.038) was observed, which remained after sex and BMI change corrections. Carriers of the Glu27Glu genotype presented a better response to physical exercise programs regarding their triglycerides levels and triglyceride-glucose index (p = 0.001 for both). The participants' responsiveness to physical exercise programs showed variation due to the ADRB2 gene expression and the Gln27Glu polymorphism. A more significant loss of body fat was associated with higher levels of ADRB2 expression, and the Glu27Glu genotype was associated with a better cardiometabolic response. The Arg16Gly polymorphism did not show interaction with the responsiveness to physical exercise., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Brazil has experienced some of the highest numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths globally and from May 2021 made Latin America a pandemic epicenter. Although SARS-CoV-2 established sustained transmission in Brazil early in the pandemic, important gaps remain in our understanding of virus transmission dynamics at the national scale. Here, we describe the genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 using near-full genomes sampled from 27 Brazilian states and a bordering country - Paraguay. We show that the early stage of the pandemic in Brazil was characterised by the co-circulation of multiple viral lineages, linked to multiple importations predominantly from Europe, and subsequently characterized by large local transmission clusters. As the epidemic progressed under an absence of effective restriction measures, there was a local emergence and onward international spread of Variants of Concern (VOC) and Variants Under Monitoring (VUM), including Gamma (P.1) and Zeta (P.2). In addition, we provide a preliminary genomic overview of the epidemic in Paraguay, showing evidence of importation from Brazil. These data reinforce the usefulness and need for the implementation of widespread genomic surveillance in South America as a toolkit for pandemic monitoring that provides a means to follow the real-time spread of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants with possible implications for public health and immunization strategies.