Organic cations in halide perovskite solid solutions: exploring beyond size effects.

Halide perovskites are a class of materials of consolidated optoelectronic and electrochemical applications, reaching efficiencies compared to established materials in respective fields. In this scenario, the design and understanding of composition-structure-property relations is imperative. In solid solutions containing mixed cations, some direct relations between the sizes of the substituents and the properties of perovskites are generally observed. However, in several cases, these relations are not observed, implying that other characteristics of these cations play a major role. Despite its importance, this understanding has not been comprehensively deepened. To address this issue, we synthesized and characterized the structure, electrical behavior, and stability of methylammonium lead iodide-based perovskites with equal amounts of the substituents guanidinium, ethylammonium, and acetamidinium. These three large organic cations have essentially equal sizes but other remarkably different characteristics, such as the number of N-H bonds, intrinsic dipole moment, and order of C-N bonds. Herein, we show that these cations have dramatically different effects over important fundamental and applied properties of resulting perovskites, including the orthorhombic-to-tetragonal and tetragonal-to-cubic phase transitions, microstructural development, ionic conductivity, I-V hysteresis, electronic carrier mobility, and stability against light-induced degradation. These effects are correlated with the characteristics of the large substituent cations and help pave the way for a better rational chemical design of halide perovskites.

Spatiotemporal variability in human thermal comfort perception in open-air spaces: application to the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

The objective of this study was to propose bioclimatic zoning to classify human thermal comfort and discomfort in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil; both historical and future scenarios are considered. Thus, historical series (1961 to 2017) of the effective temperature index as a function of the wind (ETW) were obtained as a function of the monthly average values of the minimum, mean, and maximum dry-bulb air temperatures (tdb,min, tdb,mean, and tdb,max, respectively), in addition to the mean relative humidity ([Formula: see text], %) and mean wind speed ([Formula: see text], m s -1). The data were obtained from 34 weather stations and subjected to trend analysis by using the nonparametric Mann-Kendall test, thus enabling the simulation of future scenarios (for 2028 and 2038). Then, to define the thermal ranges of the bioclimatic zoning, maps of ETWmin, ETWmean, and ETWmax were created from geostatistical analysis. Overall, the results show warming trends for the upcoming years in Minas Gerais municipalities. All climatic seasons showed an increase in the frequency of new classifications in the upper adjacent classes, which indicates climate warming. Therefore, when considering future scenarios for the autumn and winter seasons, attention should be given to changes in predicted thermal sensation, especially in the Central Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte Metropolitan, South/Southwest Minas, Campo das Vertentes, and Zona da Mata.

Spinal Cord Stimulation Modulates Rat Cortico-Basal Ganglia Locomotor Circuit.

OBJECTIVE: The cortico-basal ganglia circuit is crucial to understanding locomotor behavior and movement disorders. Spinal cord stimulation modulates that circuit, which is a promising approach to restoring motor functions. However, the effects of electrical spinal cord stimulation in the healthy brain motor circuit in pre- and postgait are poorly understood. Thus, this report aims to evaluate, through electrophysiological analyses, the dynamic spectral features of motor networks underlying locomotor initiation with spinal cord stimulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Wistar male rats underwent spinal cord stimulation (current 30-150 µA, frequency 100, 333, and 500 Hz) with the electrophysiological recording of the caudate and putamen nuclei, primary and secondary motor cortices, and primary somatosensory cortex. Video tracking recorded treadmill locomotion and extracted the motor planning and gait initiation. RESULTS: Spectral analysis of segments of gait initiation (pre- and postgait), with stimulation off, showed increased low-frequency activity. Postgait initiation showed increased alpha and beta rhythms and decreased delta rhythm with the stimulation off. Overall, the stimulation frequencies reduced alpha and beta rhythms in all brain areas during movement initiation. Regarding movement planning, such an effect was observed in the sensorimotor area, comprising the delta and alpha rhythms. CONCLUSION: This study showed a short-term effect of spinal cord stimulation on the brain areas of the motor circuit, suggesting possible facilitation of movement planning and starting through neuromodulation. Thus, the electrophysiological characterization of this study may contribute to understanding basal ganglia networks and developing new approaches to treat movement disorders in the gait initiation phase.

Technology-enhanced community forest management in tropical regions: A state of the art.

Tropical forests provide ecosystem services to around 2.7 billion people. Yet they are reaching tipping points due to social, economic, and environmental pressures. Technology is increasingly being leveraged to expand Community Forest Management (CFM) monitoring capabilities and to potentially increase its effectiveness, but a systematic accounting of this is lacking in the scientific literature. This study employed a mixed-methods approach combining a systematic literature review (SLR) with semi-structured interviews of technology-enhanced CFM (tech-CFM) case studies in tropical forests. From the SLR, evaluation criteria were identified and applied to 23 case studies that employed one or more novel technologies, 8 on the African continent, 9 in the Asia Pacific region, 5 in Latin America, and 1 in multiple regions. The results include classifying 22 monitoring technologies, with satellite remote sensing technology being the most common (17 case studies), followed by mobile devices (10 case studies), which are often integrated with geographic information system (8 case studies) analysis and data platforms. These technologies tend to be deployed in packages that augment each technology's capabilities, beyond their individual uses. Nonetheless, they are limited by poor internet coverage in remote regions, impeding the ability to develop real-time integrated monitoring systems. Tech-CFM shows potential for complementing and integrating with national monitoring system when adequate data collection protocols are in place. Practical social-cultural, technical, and project design recommendations are made for the integration of technology into CFM. Finally, a multi-criteria decision-making framework is developed from the literature-based evaluation criteria to assist practitioners in selecting appropriate technology suites.

Brain connectivity analysis in preictal phases of seizure induced by pentylenetetrazol in rats.

Abnormal patterns of brain connectivity characterize epilepsy. However, little is known about these patterns during the stages preceding a seizure induced by pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). To investigate brain connectivity in male Wistar rats during the preictal phase of PTZ-induced seizures (60 mg/kg), we recorded local field potentials in the primary motor (M1) cortex, the ventral anterior (VA) nucleus of the thalamus, the hippocampal CA1 area, and the dentate gyrus (DG) during the baseline period and after PTZ administration. While there were no changes in power density between the baseline and preictal periods, we observed an increase in directional functional connectivity in theta from the hippocampal formation to M1 and VA, as well as in middle gamma from DG to CA1 and from CA1 to M1, and also in slow gamma from M1 to CA1. These findings are supported by increased phase coherence between DG-M1 in theta and CA1-M1 in middle gamma, as well as enhanced phase-amplitude coupling of delta-middle gamma in M1 and delta-fast gamma in CA1. Interestingly, we also noted a slight decrease in phase synchrony between CA1 and VA in slow gamma. Together, these results demonstrate increased functional connectivity between brain regions during the PTZ-induced preictal period, with this increase being particularly driven by the hippocampal formation.

Effect of simulated extreme rainfall on the vegetative phenology of perennial and annual herbaceous plants from a Brazilian dry forest.

Detecting changes in the phenological responses of herbaceous species as a function of predicted climate change is important for forecasting future scenarios for the functioning of dry tropical forests, especially when predicting an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme droughts. Because of the sensitivity of plants to water availability, our study hypothesizes that if years become drier or wetter, herbaceous plants will synchronously change the onset, duration, and intensity of their vegetative phenophases. We used a historical series of 60 years of precipitation observations for the Caatinga vegetation to define daily average of precipitation for rainy (Twet), median (Tcontrol), and dry (Tdry) years. We simulated past average daily rainfall (Twet, Tcontrol, and Tdry) while growing two herbaceous perennials and two herbaceous annuals. We monitored plant growth and measured the activity (absence or presence) and intensity of vegetative phenophases. We used circular statistical analysis to assess differences between treatments. Our results revealed that leaf production was seasonal but relatively uniform for perennial species and highly seasonal (wet season) for annual species. Simulated dry years induced lower leaf emergence concentrated over a few months in annual species, but this effect was more strongly significant in one of the two perennial species. Both annual and perennial species can experience delayed and less intense leaf abscission during the rainy season in years with below-average precipitation. In contrast, large voluminous rains in years with above-average precipitation can accelerate and intensify the process of leaf renewal. If future precipitation reductions occur, the changes in phenological response indicate that the cover of annual and perennial herbaceous species in this study will likely decrease, altering the landscape and functioning of dry tropical forests. However, the potential trade-offs observed may help populations of these species to persist during years of severe drought in the Caatinga.

Assessment of Ammonia Emissions and Greenhouse Gases in Dairy Cattle Facilities: A Bibliometric Analysis.

A deeper understanding of gas emissions in milk production is crucial for promoting productive efficiency, sustainable resource use, and animal welfare. This paper aims to analyze ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions in dairy farming using bibliometric methods. A total of 187 English-language articles with experimental data from the Scopus and Web of Science databases (January 1987 to April 2024) were reviewed. Publications notably increased from 1997, with the highest number of papers published in 2022. Research mainly focuses on ammonia and methane emissions, including quantification, volatilization, and mitigation strategies. Other gases like carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and hydrogen sulfide were also studied. Key institutions include the University of California-Davis and Aarhus University. Bibliometric analysis revealed research evolution, identifying trends, gaps, and future research opportunities. This bibliometric analysis offers insights into emissions, air quality, sustainability, and animal welfare in dairy farming, highlighting areas for innovative mitigation strategies to enhance production sustainability. This research contributes to academia, enhancing agricultural practices, and informing environmental policies. It is possible to conclude that this research is a valuable tool for understanding the evolution of research on gas emissions in dairy cattle facilities, providing guidance for future studies and interventions to promote more sustainable production.

Digital and Precision Technologies in Dairy Cattle Farming: A Bibliometric Analysis.

The advancement of technology has significantly transformed the livestock landscape, particularly in the management of dairy cattle, through the incorporation of digital and precision approaches. This study presents a bibliometric analysis focused on these technologies involving dairy farming to explore and map the extent of research in the scientific literature. Through this review, it was possible to investigate academic production related to digital and precision livestock farming and identify emerging patterns, main research themes, and author collaborations. To carry out this investigation in the literature, the entire timeline was considered, finding works from 2008 to November 2023 in the scientific databases Scopus and Web of Science. Next, the Bibliometrix (version 4.1.3) package in R (version 4.3.1) and its Biblioshiny software extension (version 4.1.3) were used as a graphical interface, in addition to the VOSviewer (version 1.6.19) software, focusing on filtering and creating graphs and thematic maps to analyze the temporal evolution of 198 works identified and classified for this research. The results indicate that the main journals of interest for publications with identified affiliations are "Computers and Electronics in Agriculture" and "Journal of Dairy Science". It has been observed that the authors focus on emerging technologies such as machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision for behavioral monitoring, dairy cattle identification, and management of thermal stress in these animals. These technologies are crucial for making decisions that enhance health and efficiency in milk production, contributing to more sustainable practices. This work highlights the evolution of precision livestock farming and introduces the concept of digital livestock farming, demonstrating how the adoption of advanced digital tools can transform dairy herd management. Digital livestock farming not only boosts productivity but also redefines cattle management through technological innovations, emphasizing the significant impact of these trends on the sustainability and efficiency of dairy production.

Advances in surface design and biomedical applications of magnetic nanoparticles.

Despite significant efforts by scientists in the development of advanced nanotechnology materials for smart diagnosis devices and drug delivery systems, the success of clinical trials remains largely elusive. In order to address this biomedical challenge, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have gained attention as a promising candidate due to their theranostic properties, which allow the simultaneous treatment and diagnosis of a disease. Moreover, MNPs have advantageous characteristics such as a larger surface area, high surface-to-volume ratio, enhanced mobility, mass transference and, more notably, easy manipulation under external magnetic fields. Besides, certain magnetic particle types based on the magnetite (Fe3O4) phase have already been FDA-approved, demonstrating biocompatible and low toxicity. Typically, surface modification and/or functional group conjugation are required to prevent oxidation and particle aggregation. A wide range of inorganic and organic molecules have been utilized to coat the surface of MNPs, including surfactants, antibodies, synthetic and natural polymers, silica, metals, and various other substances. Furthermore, various strategies have been developed for the synthesis and surface functionalization of MNPs to enhance their colloidal stability, biocompatibility, good response to an external magnetic field, etc. Both uncoated MNPs and those coated with inorganic and organic compounds exhibit versatility, making them suitable for a range of applications such as drug delivery systems (DDS), magnetic hyperthermia, fluorescent biological labels, biodetection and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Thus, this review provides an update of recently published MNPs works, providing a current discussion regarding their strategies of synthesis and surface modifications, biomedical applications, and perspectives.

Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and co-infections in stray cats in Brazil.

The zoonotic virus SARS-CoV-2, which causes severe acute respiratory syndrome in humans (COVID-19), has been identified in cats. Notably, most positive cases were in cats that had close contact with infected humans, suggesting a role for humans in animal transmission routes. Previous studies have suggested that animals with immune depletion are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. To date, there is limited evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in stray and free-range cats affected by other pathogens. In this study, we investigated infections caused by SARS-CoV-2, Leishmania spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Mycoplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) in stray cats from an urban park in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. From February to September 2021, 78 mixed-breed cats were tested for SARS-CoV-2 and hemopathogens using molecular analysis at Américo Renné Giannetti Municipal Park, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IgG in T. gondii. None of the animals in this study showed any clinical signs of infections. The SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA was detected in 7.7 % of cats, and a whole virus genome sequence analysis revealed the SARS-CoV-2 Delta lineage (B.1.617.2). Phylogenetic analysis showed that SARS-CoV-2 isolated from cats was grouped into the sublineage AY.99.2, which matches the epidemiological scenario of COVID-19 in the urban area of our study. Leishmania infantum was detected and sequenced in 9 % of cats. The seroprevalence of T. gondii was 23.1 %. Hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. was detected in 7.7 % of the cats, with Mycoplasma haemofelis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum being the most common. Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae were detected in 38.5 % of the cats, FeLV was detected in 17,9 %, and none of the cats studied tested positive for FIV. This study reports, for the first time, the SARS-CoV-2 infection with whole-genome sequencing in stray cats in southeastern Brazil and co-infection with other pathogens, including Bartonella spp. and Feline leukemia virus. Our study observed no correlation between SARS-CoV-2 and the other detected pathogens. Our results emphasize the importance of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 in stray cats to characterize their epidemiological role in SARS-CoV-2 infection and reinforce the importance of zoonotic disease surveillance.

Clinical improvement after intraarticular and intraosseous injections of platelet rich plasma combined with hyaluronic acid for knee osteoarthritis. Case series.

INTRODUCTION: knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is known as the most common form of osteoarthrosis with a 6% prevalence in people over 30 years old, and more than 40% in the population over 70 years old. The use of PRP led to diverse results and this disparity can be attributed to the dissimilar methods of PRP preparation. This study aims to assess the functional effects of intraosseous (IO) and intraarticular (IA) injections of platelet rich plasma (PRP) followed by IA injections of hyaluronic acid (HA). OBJECTIVES: this study aimed to assess the functional effects of intraosseous (IO) and intraarticular (IA) injections of platelet rich plasma (PRP) followed by IA injections of hyaluronic acid (HA), administered 3 and 4 weeks after the initiation of treatment in 33 patients with grade II-III (Ahlback scale) knee osteoarthritis (KOA). MATERIAL AND METHODS: retrospectively, 33 patients were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) osteoarthritis index and visual analogue scale (VAS) score. They were followed-up for 12.92 months on average. Patients were divided into three groups based on age and four groups based on the follow-up period. RESULTS: the pre-operative mean of the WOMAC index was 44.35 ± 20.20 and the post-operative mean was 22.81 ± 17.25 (p < 0.001). The pre-operative and post-operative mean of the VAS scores were 5.79 ± 2.01 and 2.41 ± 1.43 (p < 0.001), respectively. The largest improvement in WOMAC (from 42.86 to 13.69) was observed in the youngest patients (44 to 55 years old) and the largest reduction in VAS (from 6.89 to 2.22) was seen in patients aged 56 to 70 years. CONCLUSION: the combination of IO and IA plasma rich in growth factor (PRGF) treatment with the IA-HA treatment yielded excellent results, diminishing pain and improving motor functionality in patients with KOA.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la artrosis de rodilla (OA) es conocida como la forma más común de osteoartrosis con una prevalencia de 6% en personas mayores de 30 años y más de 40% en la población mayor de 70 años. El uso de plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) condujo a resultados diversos y esta disparidad puede atribuirse a los diferentes métodos de preparación del PRP. Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar los efectos funcionales de las inyecciones intraóseas (IO) e intraarticulares (IA) de plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) seguidas de inyecciones IA de ácido hialurónico (AH). OBJETIVOS: este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar los efectos funcionales de las inyecciones intraóseas (IO) e intraarticulares (IA) de plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) seguidas de inyecciones IA de ácido hialurónico (AH), administrada 3 y 4 semanas después del inicio del tratamiento en 33 pacientes con osteoartrosis de rodilla (OR) grado II-III (escala de Ahlbäck). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: retrospectivamente, se evaluó a 33 pacientes utilizando el índice de osteoartritis de las Universidades Western Ontario y McMaster (WOMAC) y la puntuación de la escala visual analógica (EVA). Se les realizó un seguimiento medio de 12.92 meses. Los pacientes se dividieron en tres grupos según la edad y cuatro grupos según el período de seguimiento. RESULTADOS: la media preoperatoria del índice WOMAC fue de 44.35 ± 20.20 y la media postoperatoria fue de 22.81 ± 17.25 (p < 0.001). La media preoperatoria y postoperatoria de las puntuaciones de la EVA fue de 5.79 ± 2.01 y 2.41 ± 1.43 (p < 0.001), respectivamente. La mayor mejoría en WOMAC (de 42.86 a 13.69) se observó en los pacientes más jóvenes (44 a 55 años) y la mayor reducción de la EVA (de 6.89 a 2.22) se observó en pacientes de 56 a 70 años. CONCLUSIÓN: la combinación del tratamiento de plasma rico en factores de crecimiento (PRGF) IO e IA con el tratamiento IA-AH produjo excelentes resultados, disminuyendo el dolor y mejorando la funcionalidad motora de los pacientes con OR.

Intervenções no trabalho para prevenção de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos: revisão sistemática de ensaios randomizados / Workplace interventions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review of randomized trials

Resumo Objetivo: investigar os efeitos de intervenções no ambiente laboral para prevenção de distúrbios musculoesqueléticos. Métodos: revisão sistemática que incluiu ensaios randomizados, individuados ou comunitários, que investigaram efeitos de intervenções no trabalho para prevenir distúrbios musculoesqueléticos, relatados em artigos publicados entre 2015 e 2020 e indexados nas bases de dados: Lilacs, Medline/Pubmed, PEDro e Web of Science. Os estudos foram categorizados conforme a modalidade de intervenção e avaliados quanto à qualidade metodológica. Resultados: dos 58 estudos selecionados, 15 atenderam satisfatoriamente aos critérios de qualidade, abordando diferentes modalidades de exercícios físicos e/ou abordagem cognitivo-comportamental, aplicadas de forma única ou combinada; nenhum estudo abordou intervenções organizacionais. Apesar da heterogeneidade de intervenções e desfechos, exercícios físicos realizados nos locais de trabalho resultaram em diminuição da dor musculoesquelética, do uso de analgésicos e do afastamento do trabalho por distúrbios musculoesqueléticos, no entanto, combinados às intervenções comportamentais não mostraram os resultados esperados. Os resultados com a Ergonomia Participativa ratificaram o papel fundamental dos trabalhadores na realização de intervenções em seus ambientes de trabalho. Conclusão: apesar de benefícios observados, salienta-se que os estudos revisados não produziram evidências consolidadas acerca das intervenções mais eficazes para prevenir distúrbios musculoesqueléticos entre trabalhadores.

Abstract Objective: to investigate the effects of workplace interventions aiming to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. Methods: systematic review that included randomized, individual or community trials, which investigated the effects of workplace interventions aiming to prevent musculoskeletal disorders, reported in articles published between 2015 and 2020 and indexed in the following databases: Lilacs, Medline/Pubmed, PEDro, and Web of Science. Studies were categorized according to the type of intervention and evaluated in terms of methodological quality. Results: of all 58 studies selected, 15 satisfactorily met the quality criteria, addressing different types of physical exercise and/or cognitive-behavioral approaches, applied alone or in combination. No study addressed organizational interventions. Despite the heterogeneity of interventions and outcomes, physical exercises performed in the workplace led to reduction in musculoskeletal pain, use of analgesics, and absence from work due to musculoskeletal disorders; however, combined with behavioral interventions, they did not show the expected results. The results with participatory ergonomics confirmed the critical role of workers in performing interventions in the workplace. Conclusion: despite the benefits observed, the studies reviewed did not produce consolidated evidence about the most effective interventions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders among workers.

Molecular and morphological alterations in uninjured skin of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice

Diabetes affects every tissue in the body, including the skin. The main skin problem is the increased risk of infections, which can lead to foot ulcers. Most studies evaluating the effects of diabetes on the skin are carried out in wound healing areas. There are fewer studies on uninjured skin, and some particularities of this tissue are yet to be elucidated. In general, cellular and molecular outcomes of diabetes are increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. For our study, we used C57BL/6 mice that were divided into diabetic and non-diabetic groups. The diabetic group received low doses of streptozotocin on 5 consecutive days. To evaluate the effects of hyperglycemia on uninjured skin, we performed morphological analysis using hematoxylin/eosin staining, cellular analysis using Picrosirius red and Nissl staining, and immunostaining, and evaluated protein expression by polymerase chain reaction. We confirmed that mice were hyperglycemic, presenting all features related to this metabolic condition. Hyperglycemia caused a decrease in interleukin 6 (Il-6) and an increase in tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnf-α), Il-10, F4/80, tumor growth factor beta (Tgf-β), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (Igf-1). In addition, hyperglycemia led to a lower cellular density in the epidermis and dermis, a delay in the maturation of collagen fibers, and a decrease in the number of neurons. Furthermore, we showed a decrease in Bdnf expression and no changes in Ntrk2 expression in the skin of diabetic animals. In conclusion, chronic hyperglycemia in mice induced by streptozotocin caused disruption of homeostasis even before loss of skin continuity.

Vacinas e desinformação: uma análise de conteúdo sobre fake newsapuradas por plataformas de debunkingem redes sociais / Vaccines and disinformation: a content analysis on fake news verified by debunking platforms on social networks / Vacunas y desinformación: un análisis de contenidos sobre fake news verificadas por las plataformas de debunking en las redes sociales

O impacto das fake news chegou à área da saúde e a desconfiança em relação às vacinas trouxe de volta doenças até então erradicadas. Mas como os discursos antivacinasão construídos nas redes sociais? Neste trabalho, 80fake news com foco nas vacinas foram coletadas de sites brasileiros que realizam debunking, uma estratégia de detecção e desmascaramento de desinformação e fake news. A partir da aplicação de um protocolo analítico, mapeamos as principais características presentes na elaboração dessas publicações. A análise de conteúdo revelou que o Facebook e o WhatsApp são as redes preferidas para esse tipo de compartilhamento. Cerca de 59% dos conteúdos são totalmente falsos e a maioria dos discursos destaca possíveis riscos das vacinas como estratégias de convencimento. As fontes mais referenciadas são supostamente médicos e cientistas, para criar confiabilidade. O levantamento aponta ainda que 60% das publicações apresentaram erros gramaticais e ortográficos na elaboração dos textos

The impact of fake news reached the health area and distrust in relation to vaccines brought back diseases that had been eradicated. But how are these anti-vaccine discourses constructed in social medias? In this paper, 80 fake news stories focusing on vaccines were collected through Brazilian websites that perform debunking, a strategy for detecting and unmasking misinformation and fake news. From the application of an analytical protocol, the main characteristics present in the elaboration of these publications were mapped. Content analysis revealed that Facebook and WhatsApp are the preferred medias for this type of sharing. About 59% of the contents are totally false and most of the speeches highlight the risks of vaccines as a convincing strategy. The most referenced sources are supposedly doctors and scientists to create re-liability. The survey also points out that 60% of publications have grammatical and spelling errors in the preparation of texts

El impacto de las fake news llegó al área de la salud y la desconfianza en las vacunas trajo de vuelta enfermedades erradicadas. Pero, ¿cómo se construyen los discursos antivacunas en las redes sociales? En este trabajo, se recopilaron 80 noticias falsas centradas en vacunas a través de sitios web brasileños que realizan debunking, una estrategia para detectar y desenmascarar información errónea y noticias falsas. A partir de la aplicación de un protocolo analítico, mapeamos las principales características presentes en la elaboración de estas publicaciones. El análisis de contenido reveló que Facebook y WhatsApp son las redes preferidas para este tipo de intercambio. Alrededor del 59% del contenido es completamente falso y la mayoría destaca los posibles riesgos de las vacunas como estrategias convincentes. Las fuentes más referenciadas son supuestamente médicos y científicos para crear confiabilidad. La encuesta señala que el 60% de las publicaciones tenían errores gramaticales y ortográficos

Low back pain and joint position changes in cyclists: a cross-sectional study / Dolor lumbar y cambios en la posición de las articulaciones en ciclistas: un estudio transversal / Dor lombar e alterações do posicionamento articular em ciclistas: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Introduction: Low back pain is one of the most common complaints among cyclists. The disharmony of the cyclist-bike combination may be a predisposing factor. Bike Fit is a technique that aims to adjust the bike to the individual characteristics of the cyclist. Objectives: To investigate the relationship between the cyclist's position on the bicycle and the occurrence of complaints of low back pain. Methods: Data obtained during Bike Fit from 62 amateur cyclists were used in the study. Cyclists were filmed during the act of pedaling on a stationary roller and image analysis was performed using Kinovea® software. Data related to complaints of low back pain and positioning on the bicycle were used in the Chi-Square test and binary logistic regression. Results: The mean age was 38.06 ± 8.82 years, 87.7% of the sample was composed of men and low back pain was found in 40.3% (25/62) of the participants. Univariate analysis showed a positive correlation between low back pain and the following variables: ankle dorsiflexion angle (X2=6.947, p=0.014) and upper limb reach (X2=5.247; p=0.032). Binary logistic regression showed a positive association between reaching with the upper limbs and low back pain (r=2.728; p=0.002) and a negative association between knee advancement and low back pain (r= -2.281; p=0.007). Conclusion: Cyclists with low back pain present changes in their position on the bicycle, which reinforces the importance of evaluating the cyclist/bike combination. However, it is not possible to state whether the positional changes observed in the study sample are causes or consequences of low back pain. Level of evidence: Level III; Cross-sectional observational study.

RESUMEN Introducción: El dolor lumbar es una de las quejas más frecuentes en los practicantes de ciclismo. Puede tener como factor predisponente la falta de armonía del conjunto ciclista-bicicleta. Bike Fit es una técnica que tiene como objetivo ajustar la bicicleta a las características individuales del ciclista. Objetivos: Investigar la relación entre la posición del ciclista en la bicicleta y la aparición de quejas de lumbalgia. Métodos: En el estudio se utilizaron datos obtenidos durante el Bike Fit de 62 ciclistas aficionados. Los ciclistas fueron filmados durante el acto de pedalear sobre un rodillo estacionario y el análisis de las imágenes se realizó utilizando el software Kinovea®. Los datos relacionados con las quejas de dolor lumbar y la posición en la bicicleta se utilizaron en la prueba de Chi-Cuadrado y regresión logística binaria. Resultados: La edad media fue de 38,06 ± 8.82 años, el 87,7% de la muestra estuvo compuesta por hombres y se constató dolor lumbar en el 40,3% (25/62) de los participantes. El análisis univariado mostró una correlación positiva entre el dolor lumbar y las siguientes variables: ángulo de dorsiflexión del tobillo (X2 = 6,947, p = 0,014) y alcance de las extremidades superiores (X2 = 5,247; p = 0,032). La regresión logística binaria mostró una asociación positiva entre el alcance de las extremidades superiores y el dolor lumbar (r = 2,728; p = 0,002) y una asociación negativa para el avance de la rodilla y el dolor lumbar (r = -2,281; p = 0,007). Conclusiones: Los ciclistas con dolor lumbar presentan cambios en su posición sobre la bicicleta, lo que refuerza la importancia de la evaluación del conjunto ciclista-bicicleta. Sin embargo, no es posible afirmar si los cambios posicionales observados en la muestra estudiada son causas o consecuencias del dolor lumbar. Nivel de evidencia: Nivel III; Estudio observacional transversal.

RESUMO Introdução: A dor lombar é uma das queixas mais comuns nos praticantes de ciclismo. Pode ter como fator predisponente a desarmonia do conjunto ciclista-bicicleta. O Bike Fit é uma técnica que visa ajustar a bicicleta às características individuais do ciclista. Objetivos: Investigar a relação entre o posicionamento do ciclista na bicicleta e a ocorrência de queixas de dor lombar. Métodos: Os dados obtidos durante o Bike Fit de 62 ciclistas amadores foram utilizados no estudo. Os ciclistas foram filmados durante a pedalada em um rolo estacionário e a análise das imagens foi realizada pelo software Kinovea®. Os dados relacionados com a queixa de dor lombar e ao posicionamento na bicicleta foram utilizados no teste do Qui-quadrado e de regressão logística binária. Resultados: A média de idade foi de 38,06 ± 8,82 anos, 87,7% da amostra foi composta por homens e a dor lombar foi constatada em 40,3% (25/62) dos participantes. A análise univariada mostrou correlação positiva entre a dor lombar e as seguintes variáveis: ângulo de dorsiflexão do tornozelo (X2 = 6,947, p = 0,014) e alcance dos membros superiores (X2 = 5,247; p = 0,032). A regressão logística binária mostrou uma associação positiva entre alcance dos membros superiores e dor lombar (r = 2,728; p = 0,002) e associação negativa para avanço dos joelhos e dor lombar (r = -2,281; p = 0,007). Conclusão: Os ciclistas com dor lombar apresentam alterações de posicionamento na bicicleta, o que reforça a importância da avaliação do conjunto ciclista-bicicleta. Entretanto, não é possível afirmar se as alterações de posicionamento observadas na amostra estudada são causas ou consequências da dor lombar. Nível de evidência: Nível III; Estudo observacional transversal.

Stress during the covid-19 pandemic: unusual challenges for university professors / Estresse durante a pandemia de covid-19: desafios incomuns para professores universitários

Objective: Investigate the factors related to the stress levels triggered during the COVID-19 pandemic and the quality of life (QOL) of university professors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 318 professors from private and public higher education institutions in Maranhão, Brazil. Data collection included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brazilian versions of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Abbreviated World Health Organ-ization QOL Assessment Instrument (WHOQOL-bref). Statistical analyses were performed with Student's T-test and Analysis of Variance with Duncan's post-hoc. Results: according to the results of the professor score assessment, perceived stress levels were classified as normal (n = 166, 52.2%), moderate (n = 126, 39.6%), and high (n = 26, 8, 2%), with an average of 26.6 (± 10.5). QOL had an overall average of 56.4 (± 13.0). Among the QOL domains, the physical had the highest mean with 66.1 (± 17.7), while the lowest mean was in the social domain with 55.8 (± 14.8). Conclusion: The factors that influenced the stress levels were being female with age between 31 and 40 years old, those who had a child, and those who did not perform a frequent religious practice (AU).

Objetivo: Investigar os fatores relacionados aos níveis de estresse desencadeados durante a pandemia de COVID-19 e à qualidade de vida (QV) em professores universitários. Método: Trata-se de um estudo transversal com 318 docentes de instituições de ensino superior públicas e privadas do Maranhão, Brasil. A coleta de dados incluiu um questionário so-ciodemográfico, as versões brasileiras da Escala de Estresse Percebido (PSS) e o Instrumento Abreviado de Avaliação da QV da Organização Mundial da Saúde (WHOQOL-bref). As análises estatísticas foram realizadas com testes T de Student e Análise de Variância com post-hoc de Duncan. Resultados: de acordo com os resultados da avaliação da pontuação dos professores, os níveis de estresse percebido foram classificados como normal (n = 166, 52,2%), moderado (n = 126, 39,6%) e alto (n = 26, 8, 2%), com uma média de 26,6 (± 10,5). A QV teve uma média geral de 56,4 (± 13,0). Entre os domínios da QV, o físico apresentou a maior média com 66,1 (± 17,7), enquanto a menor média foi no domínio social com 55,8 (± 14,8). Conclusão: Os fatores que influenciaram os níveis de estresse no grupo participante foram o sexo feminino com idade entre 31 e 40 anos, ter filho e não exercer prática religiosa frequente (AU).

Realidade epidemiológica da morbimortalidade hospitalar por acidente vascular cerebral no nordeste brasileiro, de 2015 a 2019 / Epidemiological reality of hospital morbimortality due to cerebral vascular accident in northeast brazil, from 2015 to 2019 / Realidad epidemiológica de la morbimortalidad hospitalaria por accidente vascular cerebral en el noreste de brasil, de 2015 a 2019

Com grande impacto social por alta mortalidade e morbidade no Brasil e no Mundo, o AVC continua em destaque dentre as Doenças Crônicas Não transmissíveis. Visando oferecer subsídios técnico-científicos sobre o perfil epidemiológico desta patologia no Nordeste, este artigo consiste em um estudo de corte transversal, quantitativo, epidemiológico, de série temporal, entre os anos de 2015 a 2019, tendo por base os dados disponibilizados na plataforma DATASUS. Evidenciou-se que o ano de 2019 foi o ano com maior número de internações por esta patologia, predominando em homens. No entanto, as mulheres tiveram mais óbitos. A raça mais acometida foi a parda, com mais de 82% das internações e mais de 83% dos óbitos. Os óbitos ocorreram em todas as faixas etárias, predominando nos mais idosos. O Estado com maior quantitativo de óbitos foi a Bahia, também o mais populoso do estudo. O perfil epidemiológico geral, do paciente acometido por AVC na região Nordeste do Brasil no período avaliado, foi, homem, com idade mais avançada (a partir de 60 anos), pardo, permanecendo cerca de 7,8 dias internados. O custo total desse período, com internações por AVC, foi de R$278.874.426.3, certamente, um custo bastante oneroso ao nosso sistema de saúde. As unidades federativas com maior acometimento são também as mais populosas. Percebendo-se que, por se tratar de uma doença prevenível, com graves sequelas e que causam grandes prejuízos pessoais, sociais e econômicos, torna-se relevante que o sistema público de saúde adote rigorosas medidas para sua prevenção.

With a great social impact due to high mortality and morbidity in Brazil and the world, stroke continues to be highlighted among Chronic Non-communicable Diseases. Aiming to offer technical-scientific support on the epidemiological profile of this pathology in the Northeast, this article consists of a cross-sectional, quantitative, epidemiological, time series study, between the years 2015 and 2019, based on data available on the DATASUS platform . It was evident that 2019 was the year with the highest number of hospitalizations for this pathology, predominantly in men. However, women had more deaths. The most affected race was the mixed race, with more than 82% of hospitalizations and more than 83% of deaths. Deaths occurred in all age groups, predominantly among the elderly. The State with the highest number of deaths was Bahia, also the most populous in the study. The general epidemiological profile of the patient affected by stroke in the Northeast region of Brazil during the period evaluated was male, older (60 years and older), mixed race, and remained hospitalized for approximately 7.8 days. The total cost of this period, with hospitalizations for stroke, was R$278,874,426.3, certainly a very costly cost to our health system. The federative units most affected are also the most populous. Realizing that, as it is a preventable disease, with serious consequences and causing great personal, social and economic losses, it is important that the public health system adopts strict measures for its prevention.

Con gran impacto social debido a la alta mortalidad y morbilidad en Brasil y el mundo, el accidente cerebrovascular sigue destacándose entre las Enfermedades Crónicas No Transmisibles. Con el objetivo de ofrecer soporte técnico-científico sobre el perfil epidemiológico de esta patología en el Nordeste, este artículo consiste en un estudio transversal, cuantitativo, epidemiológico, de series temporales, entre los años 2015 y 2019, con base en datos disponibles en la plataforma DATASUS. . Se evidenció que 2019 fue el año con mayor número de hospitalizaciones por esta patología, predominantemente en hombres. Sin embargo, las mujeres tuvieron más muertes. La raza más afectada fue la mestiza, con más del 82% de las hospitalizaciones y más del 83% de las muertes. Las muertes se produjeron en todos los grupos de edad, predominantemente entre los ancianos. El estado con mayor número de muertes fue Bahía, también el más poblado del estudio. El perfil epidemiológico general del paciente afectado por accidente cerebrovascular en la región Nordeste de Brasil durante el período evaluado fue masculino, mayor (60 años y más), mestizo y permaneció hospitalizado durante aproximadamente 7,8 días. El costo total de este período, con las hospitalizaciones por accidente cerebrovascular, fue de R$ 278.874.426,3, ciertamente un costo muy costoso para nuestro sistema de salud. Las unidades federativas más afectadas son también las más pobladas. Al ser conscientes de que, al tratarse de una enfermedad prevenible, de graves consecuencias y que provoca grandes pérdidas personales, sociales y económicas, es importante que el sistema público de salud adopte medidas estrictas para su prevención. PALABRAS CLAVE: Accidente Cerebrovascular; Epidemiología; Salud Pública.

A molecular and morphological study of Ascaris suum in a human-pig contact scenario in northeastern Brazil / Estudo molecular e morfológico de Ascaris suum em um cenário de contato entre suínos e humanos no nordeste brasileiro

The aim of the present study was to assess morphologic and genetic data on ascariasis in swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) and humans in low-resource rural and periurban communities in the state of Piauí, Brazil. Our cross-sectional survey included 100 fecal samples obtained from swine and 682 samples from humans. Fifteen pigs were necropsied. Human and porcine fecal samples were examined to identify Ascaris eggs. Parasites obtained in the swine necropsies were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the mitochondrial gene encoding the cytochrome oxidase 1 (cox1) enzyme was partially amplified and sequenced for molecular taxonomy and phylogenetic analyses. The overall prevalence of Ascaris eggs in the swine fecal samples was 16/100 (16%). No Ascaris eggs were identified in the human fecal samples. SEM of six worms recovered from pigs demonstrated morphological characteristics of A. suum. Cox1 sequences were compatible with A. suum reference sequences. Original and reference (GenBank) nucleotide sequences were organized into clusters that did not segregate the parasites by host species or and region. The largest haplogroups were dominated by haplotypes H01, H02 and H31. In the communities studied, there was no epidemiological evidence of the zoonotic transmission of ascariasis at the human-swine interface.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo acessar dados morfológicos e genéticos sobre a ascaridíase em suínos (Sus scrofa domesticus) e humanos, em comunidades rurais e periurbanas no estado do Piauí. O estudo transversal incluiu 100 amostras fecais de suínos e 682 amostras obtidas de humanos. Quinze suínos foram necropsiados. Amostras fecais suínas e humanas foram examinadas para detecção de ovos de Ascaris. Os parasitas adultos, obtidos nas necropsias, foram estudados através de microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV), e o gene mitocondrial codificante da enzima citocromo oxidase 1 (cox1) foi parcialmente amplificado e sequenciado para análises filogenéticas e de taxonomia molecular. A prevalência de Ascaris em amostras fecais de suínos foi 16/100 (16%), não sendo identificado nenhum caso de infecção por este parasita em humanos. A análise por MEV de parasitas recuperados de suínos demonstrou características morfológicas de Ascaris suum. As sequências nucleotídicas de cox1 foram compatíveis com A. suum. As sequências originais e de referência (obtidas no GeneBank) foram organizadas em clusters que não segregaram os parasitas por hospedeiro ou região geográfica. Os maiores haplogrupos foram dominados pelos haplótipos H01, H02 e H31. Nas comunidades estudadas, não foi evidenciada transmissão zoonótica de A. suum na interface suíno-humana.(AU)

Ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological study of medicinal plants used by a traditional community in Brazil's northeastern / Estudo etnobotânico e etnofarmacológico de plantas medicinais utilizadas por uma comunidade tradicional do nordeste brasileiro

The aim of this research is to make a survey of the socio-environmental characteristics and the ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in a traditional community in the Brazilian Northeast, Alagoas. The study was made based on visits with the application of a questionnaire with questions related to the socio-economic element and on the diversity of plants used in herbal medicine. The research was made from March/2019 to February/2020, where families and interviewed plant exhibitors were interviewed for botanical identification. The studied community, which were 24 interviewees, was compiled by residents of the Quilombola community from Pau D'arco in Arapiraca city - Alagoas. Residents interviewed, 15 (62.5%) attended between 56 to 80 years, 11 interviewees about 46% were born in the community and 13 (54%) had a fundamentally incomplete nature. At the end, there were mentioned 30 plant species used for phytotherapeutic purposes, from which presents bigger usage as plants against arterial hypertension (Salvia rosmarinus Schleid), diabetes Mellitos (Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth), pain and inflammation (Alternanthera tenella Colla), present the biggest number of species in the community. The species cited are related to numerous medicinal uses, among which there will be predominant associations associated with cardiovascular and inflammatory processes. The tea is the main way of preparing plants. It is perceived that medicinal plants are only widely used by this Quilombola community of and growth of the crops in the backyard are considered a tradition.

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo realizar um levantamento das características socioambientais e estudo etnobotânico de plantas medicinais utilizadas por uma comunidade tradicional do nordeste brasileiro, Alagoas, Brasil. O estudo se deu por meio de visitas com aplicação de um questionário contendo perguntas relacionadas aos fatores socio-econômicos e sobre a diversidade das plantas utilizadas como medicinais. O trabalho foi realizado no período de março/2019 a fevereiro/2020, onde foram entrevistadas famílias e catalogadas amostras de plantas para identificação botânica. A população estudada, com 24 entrevistados, foi composta por moradores da comunidade Quilombola Pau D'arco da cidade de Arapiraca - Alagoas. Dos moradores entrevistados, 15 (62,5%) apresentavam idade entre 56 e 80 anos, 11 dos entrevistados cerca de 46%, são naturais da comunidade e 13 (54%) possuíam ensino fundamental incompleto. Ao todo, foram citadas 30 espécies de plantas utilizadas para fins terapêuticos, das quais apresentam maior utilização as plantas contra a hipertensão arterial (Salvia rosmarinus Schleid), diabetes Mellitos (Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth), dor e inflamação (Alternanthera tenella Colla). As espécies citadas estão relacionadas a inúmeras utilizações medicinais, entre os quais predominaram as doenças associadas ao aparelho cardiovascular e processos inflamatórios. O chá é principal forma de preparo das plantas. Percebe-se que as plantas medicinais são amplamente utilizadas por essa comunidade quilombola e o cultivo no quintal é considerado uma tradição.

Behavioral effects of a low molecular weight peptide fraction from Phaseolus vulgaris in rats

Seminal studies stated that bean proteins are efficient neuronal tracers with affinity for brain tissue. A low molecular weight peptide fraction (<3kDa) from Phaseolus vulgaris (PV3) was previously reported to be antioxidant, non-cytotoxic, and capable of reducing reactive oxygen species and increasing nitric oxide in cells. We evaluated the effects of PV3 (5, 50, 100, 500, and 5000 µg/kg) on behavior and the molecular routes potentially involved. Acute and chronic PV3 treatments were performed before testing Wistar rats: i) in the elevated plus-maze (EPM) to assess the anxiolytic-like effect; ii) in the open field (OF) to evaluate locomotion and exploration; and iii) for depression-like behavior in forced swimming (FS). Catecholaminergic involvement was tested using the tyrosine hydroxylases (TH) enzyme inhibitor, α-methyl-DL-tyrosine (AMPT). Brain areas of chronically treated groups were dissected to assess: i) lipid peroxidation (LPO); ii) carbonylated proteins (CP); iii) superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymatic activities. Neuronal nitric oxide synthases (nNOS) and argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) protein expression was evaluated by western blotting. Acute treatment with PV3 increased the frequency and time spent in the EPM open arms, suggesting anxiolysis. PV3 increased crossing episodes in the OF. These PV3 effects on anxiety and locomotion were absent in the chronically treated group. Acute and chronic PV3 treatments reduced the immobility time in the FS test, suggesting an antidepressant effect. TH inhibition by AMPT reverted acute PV3 effects. PV3 decreased LPO and CP levels and SOD and CAT activities, whereas nNOS and ASS were reduced in few brain areas. In conclusion, PV3 displayed central antioxidant actions that are concomitant to catecholaminergic-dependent anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.