Tracking of structural defects induced by Eu-doping in ß-Ag2MoO4: their influences on electrical properties.

In this study, several methods were employed to investigate the electrical characteristics of ß-Ag2MoO4 systems, both Eu-doped and undoped, synthesized using the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. The focus extended to understanding how synthesis time influences material defects, with doping fixed at 1%. A systematic shift in the silver vacancy (VAg) concentration was observed within the doped ß-Ag2MoO4 system. Specifically, this study demonstrated that the incorporation of Eu3+ into polycrystalline ß-Ag2MoO4 initially increases the VAg concentration. However, as the synthesis time progresses, the VAg concentration decreases, resulting in alterations in the resulting electrical properties, arising from the intricate interplay between the number of grain boundaries and carrier density. By combining information obtained from photoluminescence, positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy, and impedance spectroscopy, a comprehensive conduction mechanism was formulated, shedding light on both doped and undoped ß-Ag2MoO4 systems.

Magnon-lattice propagation in a Morse chain: the role played by the spin-lattice interaction and the initial condition.

Our research focuses on studying magnon dynamics in a Morse lattice. We used a Heisenberg Hamiltonian to represent the spins while a Morse formalism governed the lattice deformations. The strength of the spin-spin interaction depended on the distance between neighboring spins, which followed an exponential pattern. We explored various initial conditions for the lattice and spin wave function and observed how they affected the magnon-lattice propagation. Additionally, we analyzed the impact of the parameter that controlled the difference in time scales between spin and lattice deformation propagation.

Rabies virus variants from bats closely related to variants found in marmosets (Callithrix jacchus), a neglected source of human rabies infection in Brazil.

Rabies is a fatal viral zoonosis caused by rabies virus (RABV). RABV infects the central nervous system and triggers acute encephalomyelitis in both humans and animals. Endemic in the Brazilian Northeast region, RABV emergence in distinct wildlife species has been identified as a source of human rabies infection and as such, constitutes a public health concern. Here, we performed post-mortem RABV analyses of 144 encephalic tissues from bats sampled from January to July 2022, belonging to 15 different species. We identified phylogenetically distinct RABV from Phyllostomidae and Molossidae bats circulating in Northeastern Brazil. Phylogenetic clustering revealed the close evolutionary relationship between RABV viruses circulating in bats and variants hosted in white-tufted marmosets, commonly captured to be kept as pets and linked to human rabies cases and deaths in Brazil. Our findings underline the urgent need to implement a phylogenetic-scale epidemiological surveillance platform to track multiple RABV variants which may pose a threat to both humans and animals.

Novel Borrelia Genotypes from Brazil Indicate a New Group of Borrelia spp. Associated with South American Bats.

The bacterial genus Borrelia comprises vector-borne spirochetes that have been classified into three major groups: the relapsing fever group (RFG), the Borrelia burgdorferi Johnson, Schmid, Hyde, Steigerwalt & Brenner sensu lato group (Bbsl), and the reptile-monotreme group (RMG). All three groups have been associated mainly with ticks and wild animals, especially rodents, birds, and reptiles. Here, we searched for Borrelia infection among 99 vampire bats [Desmodus rotundus (É. Geoffroy)] (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) from the Brazilian semiarid region. Through molecular investigation of bat internal organs, haplotypes of a potentially novel Borrelia organism were detected in 5% (5/99) of the bats. Borrelia DNA was detected in the liver, blood, spleen, kidney and brain, suggesting a systemic infection. Phylogenetic analyses inferred from partial sequences of the borrelial rrs and flaB genes indicated that the vampire bat-associated Borrelia sp. of this study form a monophyletic group with a newly reported Borrelia associated with a Colombia bat, distinct from the three main currently recognized groups of Borrelia spp., Bbsl, RFG, and RMG. These novel bat-associated Borrelia spp. from South America might have arisen through an independent event along the borrelial evolutionary history, since previous molecular reports of Borrelia organisms in bats or bat-associated ticks from Africa, Europe, and North America were all classified in the RFG.

New records of soft ticks (Acari: Argasidae) in the Caatinga biome of Brazil, with a phylogenetic analysis of argasids using the nuclear Histone 3 (H3) gene.

In Brazil, 19 species of the genus Ornithodoros (Acari: Argasidae) have been reported. The medical and veterinary importance of Ornithodoros ticks has increased substantially in recent decades, with the discovery of various relapsing fever Borrelia infecting Ornithodoros ticks. Herein, argasid ticks were collected during 2019-2020 from caves, abandoned nests and homes in various regions of Ceará State, Brazilian semiarid-Caatinga biome. In total, 289 ticks were collected and identified into five species: Ornithodoros cavernicolous (176 specimens), Ornithodoros fonsecai (81), Ornithodoros mimon (12), Ornithodoros rietcorreai (4), and a fifth species provisionally retained as Ornithodoros sp. Ubajara. Tick identifications were corroborated by a phylogenetic analysis inferred using the 16S rRNA gene. To extend the molecular characterization, DNA samples were tested by an additional PCR assay targeting the nuclear Histone 3 (H3) gene. Because there were no H3 sequences of argasids in GenBank, we extended this PCR assay for additional Ornithodoros species, available in our laboratory. In total, 15 partial sequences of the H3 gene were generated for 10 Ornithodoros species, showing 0% intraspecific polymorphism, and 1.5-11.6% interspecific polymorphism. Phylogenetic analyses inferred segregated Ornithodoros sp. Ubajara as a potential novel species. Our results also highlight the potential of the H3 gene for deeper phylogenetic analyses of argasids. The present study provides new data for argasid ticks of the genus Ornithodoros in the Caatinga biome. Because some of these tick species are human-biting ticks, active surveillance for the incidence of human infection due to Ornithodoros-borne agents is imperative in the Caatinga biome.

Electronic Waste Low-Temperature Processing: An Alternative Thermochemical Pretreatment to Improve Component Separation.

The production of electronic waste due to technological development, economic growth and increasing population has been rising fast, pushing for solutions before the environmental pressure achieves unprecedented levels. Recently, it was observed that many extractive metallurgy alternatives had been considered to recover value from this type of waste. Regarding pyrometallurgy, little is known about the low-temperature processing applied before fragmentation and subsequent component separation. Therefore, the present manuscript studies such alternative based on scanning electron microscopy characterization. The sample used in the study was supplied by a local recycling center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The mass loss was constant at around 30% for temperatures higher than 300 °C. Based on this fact, the waste material was then submitted to low-temperature processing at 350 °C followed by attrition disassembling, size classification, and magnetic concentration steps. In the end, this first report of the project shows that 15% of the sample was recovered with metallic components with high economic value, such as Cu, Ni, and Au, indicating that such methods could be an interesting alternative to be explored in the future for the development of alternative electronic waste extraction routes.

Artificial intelligence in the management and treatment of burns: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) is an innovative field with potential for improving burn care. This article provides an updated review on machine learning in burn care and discusses future challenges and the role of healthcare professionals in the successful implementation of AI technologies. METHODS: A systematic search was carried out on MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed databases for English-language articles studying machine learning in burns. Articles were reviewed quantitatively and qualitatively for clinical applications, key features, algorithms, outcomes and validation methods. RESULTS: A total of 46 observational studies were included for review. Assessment of burn depth (n = 26), support vector machines (n = 19) and 10-fold cross-validation (n = 11) were the most common application, algorithm and validation tool used, respectively. CONCLUSION: AI should be incorporated into clinical practice as an adjunct to the experienced burns provider once direct comparative analysis to current gold standards outlining its benefits and risks have been studied. Future considerations must include the development of a burn-specific common framework. Authors should use common validation tools to allow for effective comparisons. Level I/II evidence is required to produce robust proof about clinical and economic impacts.

West Nile Virus in the State of Ceará, Northeast Brazil.

In June 2019, a horse with neurological disorder was diagnosed with West Nile virus (WNV) in Boa Viagem, a municipality in the state of Ceará, northeast Brazil. A multi-institutional task force coordinated by the Brazilian Ministry of Health was deployed to the area for case investigation. A total of 513 biological samples from 78 humans, 157 domestic animals and 278 free-ranging wild birds, as well as 853 adult mosquitoes of 22 species were tested for WNV by highly specific serological and/or molecular tests. No active circulation of WNV was detected in vertebrates or mosquitoes by molecular methods. Previous exposure to WNV was confirmed by seroconversion in domestic birds and by the detection of specific neutralizing antibodies in 44% (11/25) of equids, 20.9% (14/67) of domestic birds, 4.7% (13/278) of free-ranging wild birds, 2.6% (2/78) of humans, and 1.5% (1/65) of small ruminants. Results indicate that not only equines but also humans and different species of domestic animals and wild birds were locally exposed to WNV. The detection of neutralizing antibodies for WNV in free-ranging individuals of abundant passerine species suggests that birds commonly found in the region may have been involved as amplifying hosts in local transmission cycles of WNV.

Perineal Turn over Perforator Flap: A Novel Surgical Technique for Combined Perineal and Posterior Vaginal Wall Reconstruction.

Extralevator Abdominoperineal Excision (ELAPE) and Abdominoperineal Resection create complex perineal defects made more challenging when combined with additional resection of the posterior vaginal wall. This composite defect requires the restoration of a functional vagina, in addition to the obliteration of the large perineal dead space, a need to reduce donor site, and perineal wound morbidity. Previously described fasciocutaneous and myocutaneous flaps for such defects are associated with long operations requiring intra-operative mobilization and are linked to post-operative complications including herniation, evisceration, flap loss, donor site morbidity and poor cosmetic outcome, amongst other issues. Herein we describe the case of a 60-year-old female patient that underwent combined ELAPE and posterior vaginectomy for anal squamous cell carcinoma. This complex defect was reconstructed using an extended version of the Perineal Turn-Over (PTO) flap based on the Internal Pudendal artery perforator.

Histological Peripheral Margins and Recurrence of Melanoma In Situ Treated with Wide Local Excision.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of melanoma in situ (MIS) is increasing faster compared to invasive melanoma. Despite varying international practice, a minimum of 5 mm surgical excision margin is currently recommended in the UK. There is no clear guidance on the minimum histological peripheral clearance margins. AIM: This study compares the histological peripheral clearance margins of MIS using wide local excision (WLE) to the rate of recurrence and progression to invasive disease. METHODS: A retrospective single-center review was performed over a 5-year period. Inclusion criteria consisted of MIS diagnosis, ≥16 years of age, and treatment with WLE with curative intent. Those patients with a recurrence of a previous MIS or with a reported focus of invasion/regression were also included. Clinicopathological data and follow-up were recorded. RESULTS: 167 MIS were identified in 155 patients, 80% of which were lentigo maligna subtype. Of patients with completely excised MIS on histology (>0 mm), 9% had recurrence with a median time to recurrence of 36 months. Three (1.8%) cases recurred as invasive disease. Age, MIS site, MIS subtype, and histological evidence of foci of invasion/regression did not predict recurrence nor progression to invasive disease (p > 0.05). The recurrence rate of MIS with a histological excision margin ≤3.0 mm was 13% compared to 3% in those with histology margins of >3.0 mm (p=0.049). CONCLUSION: A histological peripheral clearance of at least 3.0 mm is advocated to achieve lower recurrence rates. The follow-up duration should be reviewed due to the median recurrence occurring at 36 months in our cohort. Cumulative work on MIS needs to be collated and completed in a large multicenter study with a long follow-up period.

A rare and severe case of pronator teres syndrome.

We present the case of a patient with severe symptoms of proximal forearm median nerve neuropathy. Over the course of 5 years his condition progressed to encompass rare features of combined pronator teres syndrome (PTS) and anterior interosseous nerve syndrome (AINS). The aetiology was found to be pronator teres compression and was managed successfully by surgical decompression. Proximal forearm median nerve compression should be considered as a continuum with two classic endpoints. At one end of the spectrum pure PTS presents with solely or mainly sensory symptoms, whereas at the other end AINS presents with pure motor symptoms. Hence, all possible anatomical sites of compression must be surgically explored in all cases of PTS or AINS, regardless of symptomatology. Timely referral to an experienced specialist is encouraged to ensure good outcomes, whenever a primary care practitioner encounters an atypical carpal tunnel syndrome-like presentation.

Redox-Responsive Nanobiomaterials-Based Therapeutics for Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Redox regulation has recently been proposed as a critical intracellular mechanism affecting cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Redox homeostasis has also been implicated in a variety of degenerative neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. In fact, it is hypothesized that markers of oxidative stress precede pathologic lesions in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Several therapeutic approaches have been suggested so far to improve the endogenous defense against oxidative stress and its harmful effects. Among such approaches, the use of artificial antioxidant systems has gained increased popularity as an effective strategy. Nanoscale drug delivery systems loaded with enzymes, bioinspired catalytic nanoparticles and other nanomaterials have emerged as promising candidates. The development of degradable hydrogels scaffolds with antioxidant effects could also enable scientists to positively influence cell fate. This current review summarizes nanobiomaterial-based approaches for redox regulation and their potential applications as central nervous system neurodegenerative disease treatments.

FDP Avulsion Injury Due to Enchondroma: A Unique Surgical Approach.

Flexor Digitorum Profundus avulsion injury associated with an enchondroma at the level of the distal phalanx is extremely rare. There have been few cases reported to date and most have been surgically managed using a screw and/or Bunnell pull-out wire technique with or without bone grafting. We describe the first case using a simple interosseus fixation technique for the reattachment of FDP tendon without bone grafting. The patient made an excellent post-operative recovery. This technique is a simple, effective, patient-friendly and internalised solution which, in addition, may prevent the need for bone grafting.

Caracterização epidemiológica e distribuição geográfica de potenciais vetores da doença de Chagas na região do Maciço de Baturité, Ceará, Brasil / Epidemiological characterization and geographical distribution of potential vectors of Chagas Disease in Maciço Baturité region, Ceara, Brazil

Objetivo: identificar potenciais vetores da doença de Chagas na região do Maciço de Baturité, Ceará. Métodos: no período de2014 a 2018, foi realizado estudo parasitológico em fezes de triatomíneos para Trypanosoma cruzi, em oito municípios da região do maciço de Baturité. Os triatomíneos foram capturados em ambiente intradomiciliar e peridomiciliar. Resultados: foram examinados 594 vetores, a diagnose revelou infecção natural por Trypanosoma cruzi em 79 (13,3%) espécimes, sendo, 53 machos (8,9%), 25 fêmeas (4,2%) e 1 ninfa (0,2%). Conclusão: os resultados evidenciam a região como endêmica para doença de Chagas com sete casos humanos confirmados em três municípios, existindo vários focos silenciosos em que pode haver a transmissão do agente etiológico.

Objective: to identify potential vectors of Chagas disease in the Baturité Massif region, Ceará Methods: during the period from 2014 to 2018, a parasitological study was performed on triatomine feces for Trypanosoma cruzi, in eight municipalities in Maciço Baturité region. Triatomines were captured indoors and peridomiciliary by endemic agents and population as well. Results: a total of594 vectors were examined, diagnosis revealed natural infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in79 (13,3%) specimens, being, 53 males (8,9%), 25 females (4,2%) and 1 nymph (0,2%). Conclusion: results evidenced the region as endemic to Chagas Disease with seven confirmed human cases in three municipalities with several silent foci where the causative agent might be transmitted.

Propagation of vibrational modes in classical harmonic lattice with correlated disorder.

The vibrational modes with nonzero frequency are localized in harmonic lattice with disordered masses. In our work, we investigated numerically the propagation of vibrational energy in harmonic lattice with long-range correlated disordered masses, which are randomly distributed with power law spectrum S ( k ) ∝ k - α . For α = 0, a standard uncorrelated disordered mass distribution was observed and for α > 0 its distribution exhibits intrinsic long-range correlations. Our procedure was done by the numerical solution of the classical equations for the mass displacement and velocities. Energy flow was investigated after injection of an initial wave-packet with energy E0 and the dynamics of the vibrational energy wave-packet was analyzed. We also investigated the dynamics of a pulse pumped at one side of the lattice. Our calculations suggest that vibrational modes with nonzero frequency propagate within harmonic lattice with correlated disordered masses distribution.

[The mental health promotion of children and teenagers in vulnerability and social violence: the challenges for an intersectoral network]. / La promotion de la santé mentale des enfants et adolescents en situation de vulnérabilité et violence sociale : les défis pour un réseau intersectoriel.

This paper presents and discusses the results of an intervention research conducted in Ouro Preto, Brazil from August 2014 to March 2016. The main objective was to contribute to the development of an intersectoral and interdisciplinary network to face psychosocial vulnerabilities of children and teenagers, especially related to sexual violence and drug use. To achieve this, we identified the difficulties faced by the Sistema de Garantia de Direitos Humanos da Criança e do Adolescente (SGDHCA) implemented by the municipality which take care of this population. We also identified protective and promotion factors accomplished to empower them. The methodology used combines Deleuze and Guattari Cartography, Institutional Analysis and the Cross Training. This latter methodology was developed by a group of researchers of Douglas Institute, in Montreal, which we met through scientific co-operation with our laboratory. On account of the practical-theoric and co-participative activities with the professional network of Ouro Preto, we produced a detailed diagnosis of the SGDHCA and a document proposing short, medium and long-term strategies. As final result, we intend to help the local collective-the Forum Intersetorial da Infância e Juventude-to develop a work plan from the proposed actions. In this paper we will concentrate the potential of the methodology used by presenting outcome from two important moments of the research: the discussions of successful and unsuccessful cases that elucidate the network operation and the potential and difficulties arising from the Rotation Positional, important technical of the Cross Training.

Strong, Twist-Stable Carbon Nanotube Yarns and Muscles by Tension Annealing at Extreme Temperatures.

A high-speed incandescent tension annealing process (ITAP) is used to increase the modulus and strength of twist-spun carbon nanotube yarns by up to 12-fold and 2.6-fold, respectively, provide remarkable resistance to oxidation and powerful protonating acids, and freeze yarn untwist. This twist stability enables torsional artificial-muscle motors having improved performance and minimizes problematic untwist during weaving nanotube yarns.

Coccidioides posadasii infection in bats, Brazil.

To analyze the eco-epidemiologic aspects of Histoplasma capsulatum in Brazil, we tested 83 bats for this fungus. Although H. capsulatum was not isolated, Coccidioides posadasii was recovered from Carollia perspicillata bat lungs. Immunologic studies detected coccidioidal antibodies and antigens in Glossophaga soricina and Desmodus rotundus bats.