ABSTRACT: The mango tree presents a high level of fruit abscission, which is increased in semiarid regions due to environmental stress. The use of biostimulants and phytoregulators has shown to be a promising strategy to improve fruit setting. Thus, the present study defined the best strategy for setting and development of the fruit, with the application of phytoregulators and biostimulants on the ‘Keitt’ mango tree, cultivated in the São Francisco Valley. Two experiments were performed. In experiment 1, a randomized block design was used, with four treatments T1: control, T2: gibberellic acid (AG3) + 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), T3: AG3 + 2,4-D+Benzyladenine, T4: Biostimulant + CoMo® (sources of cobalt and molybdenum). In experiment 2, the factorial scheme (2 ×3 + 1) distributed in randomized blocks was established, corresponding to two forms of potassium fertilization (recommended and adjusted), three gibberellin concentrations (0, 10 and 20 mg L-1) and additional treatment (control - recommended potassium fertilization and no setting strategy). The variables analyzed include the relative number of fruits, the number of fruits for domestic and foreign markets, productive potential, production, productivity, fruit volume, fruit mass, and the yield of peel, pulp and stone. The application of 10 mg L-1 AG3 + 10 mg L-1 2,4-D + 10 mg L-1 Benzyladenine in full flowering of the ‘Keitt’ mango tree, increased the setting and the production of the fruit. Regardless of fertilization, sequential applications at 10 or 20 mg L-1 of AG3 proved to be an effective strategy to produce ‘Keitt’ mango tree. Adjusted potassium fertilization and the application at 10 mg L-1 of AG3 promotes the production of fruits with greater mass and volume. ABSTRACT abscission stress Thus ‘Keitt Keitt Valley performed 1 used T1 T control T2 AG (AG3 2,4dichlorophenoxyacetic 24dichlorophenoxyacetic dichlorophenoxyacetic 2,4 2 4 2,4D, 24D D , (2,4-D) T3 2,4D+Benzyladenine, 24DBenzyladenine DBenzyladenine D+Benzyladenine, 2,4-D+Benzyladenine T4 CoMo sources molybdenum. molybdenum . molybdenum) ( 3 × established adjusted, adjusted adjusted) 0, 0 (0 L1 L strategy. strategy) markets potential productivity volume peel stone L- 2,4D (AG 4dichlorophenoxyacetic 24 4D (2,4-D 2,4D+Benzyladenine D+Benzyladenine

RESUMO: A mangueira apresenta elevado índice de abscisão de frutos, que é potencializado em regiões semiáridas devido ao estresse ambiental. A utilização de bioestimulantes e fitorreguladores tem demonstrado ser uma estratégia promissora para melhorar a fixação de frutos. Assim, o presente estudo foi realizado com objetivo de definir a melhor estratégia para a fixação e desenvolvimento dos frutos, com a aplicação de fitorreguladores e bioestimulante na mangueira ‘Keitt’, cultivada no Vale do São Francisco. Foram realizados dois experimentos. No experimento 1, foi utilizado o delineamento de blocos casualizados, com quatro tratamentos T1: controle, T2: ácido giberélico AG3 + ácido 2,4-diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D), T3: AG3+2,4-D+Benziladenina, T4: Bioestimulante + CoMo® (fontes de cobalto e molibdênio). No experimento 2, o esquema fatorial (2 ×3 + 1), correspondendo a duas formas de fertilização de potássio (recomendada e ajustada), três concentrações de giberelina (0, 10 e 20 mg L-1) e um tratamento adicional (controle - fertilização de potássio recomendada e sem estratégia de fixação). As variáveis analisadas incluem o número relativo de frutos, o número de frutos para os mercados doméstico e estrangeiro, o potencial produtivo, a produção, a produtividade, o volume de frutos, a massa dos frutos e o rendimento da casca, polpa e semente. A aplicação de 10 mg L-1 AG3 + 10 mg L-1 2,4-D + 10 mg L-1 de Benziladenina em floração plena da mangueira ‘Keitt’, aumentou a fixação e a produção de frutos. Independentemente da fertilização, as aplicações sequenciais de 10 ou 20 mg L-1 de AG3, mostraram ser uma estratégia eficaz para a produção da mangueira ‘Keitt’. A fertilização potássica ajustada e a aplicação de 10 mg L-1 de AG3 favorece a produção de frutos de maior a massa e o volume. RESUMO ambiental Assim ‘Keitt, Keitt ‘Keitt , ‘Keitt’ Francisco experimentos 1 casualizados T1 T controle T2 AG 2,4diclorofenoxiacético 24diclorofenoxiacético diclorofenoxiacético 2,4 2 4 2,4D, 24D D (2,4-D) T3 AG3+2,4D+Benziladenina, AG324DBenziladenina AGDBenziladenina AG3+2,4 D+Benziladenina, AG3+2,4-D+Benziladenina T4 CoMo fontes molibdênio. molibdênio . molibdênio) ( 3 × 1) ajustada, ajustada) 0, 0 (0 L1 L fixação. fixação) estrangeiro produtivo produtividade casca semente L- 2,4D ‘Keitt. 4diclorofenoxiacético 24 4D (2,4-D AG3+2,4D+Benziladenina DBenziladenina AG324 AG3+2, D+Benziladenina AG32 AG3+2 AG3+

Abstract The conservation of cultural heritage needs to be aligned with current sustainability policies. Therefore, this work aimed to assess the effectiveness of using kaolin residue, either totally or partially replacing bentonite, in Mário Mendonça de Oliveira's formulation for cleaning stone surfaces, in order to measure possible changes in the appearance or structure of Lioz stone. The influence of some variables, such as the application time of the plaster and the concentration of the clay minerals used, was evaluated. The experimental methodology consisted of drying and pulverizing the residue; quantifying and weighing the reagents; wet cleaning the rock; synthesis, application, and removal of the plaster. Throughout the research, analysis techniques were employed to characterize the starting materials, the products formed, and the alterations produced on the rock surface. After the wet cleaning process, there was a trend for increased brightness in all studied ranges, and an increase in brightness in all ranges where 100% kaolin plaster was applied during 7 and 14 days. policies Therefore residue bentonite Oliveiras Oliveira s surfaces variables used evaluated reagents synthesis research materials formed surface process 100 1 days 10

Resumo A conservação de bens culturais necessita estar alinhada com a política de sustentabilidade da atualidade. Assim, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia do uso do resíduo do caulim substituindo total ou parcialmente a bentonita, na formulação de Mário Mendonça de Oliveira, para a limpeza de superfícies pétreas. E dessa forma avaliar possíveis alterações no aspecto ou na estrutura do lioz. Para tanto foram avaliadas a influência de algumas variáveis, como tempo de aplicação do emplastro e a concentração dos argilominerais utilizados. A metodologia experimental consistiu em: secagem e pulverização do resíduo; quantificação e pesagem dos reagentes; limpeza úmida da rocha; síntese, aplicação e remoção do emplastro. Ao longo da pesquisa foram empregadas técnicas de análise, para caracterizar os materiais de partida, os produtos formados e as alterações produzidas na superfície da rocha. Após a limpeza por via úmida houve uma tendência de elevação de brilho em todas as faixas estudadas; e um aumento do mesmo em todas as faixas em que foi aplicado o emplastro de 100% caulim, para os tempos de 7 e 14 dias. atualidade Assim bentonita Oliveira pétreas lioz variáveis utilizados reagentes rocha síntese análise partida estudadas 100 1 dias 10

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the impact of thinness on the outcome of the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Materials and Methods: A matched case–control study was performed using a prospectively collected database of all patients who underwent PCNL between June 2011 and October 2021. The patients were stratified into two groups according to their phenotypic characteristics, arbitrarily defined according to their body mass index (BMI): <20 kg/m2 (Group 1, very thin patients, G<20) and ≥25 kg/m2 (Group 2, non-thin patients, G≥25). Patients were randomly matched based on Guy's Stone Score (GSS) according to case complexity at a ratio of 1:3. Results: A total of 204 patients were enrolled in this study: 51 patients (G<20) and 153 controls (G≥25). Complications occurred in 15.2% of the patients, with 5.4% of these complications classified as major complications (Clavien grade ≥ 3). According to complications there were no significant differences between the groups. The overall complication rates were 17.6% in the G<20 and 14.4% in the G≥25 (p = 0.653). The major complication rates were 3.9% in the G<20 and 5.8% in the G≥25 (p=0.429). No differences in transfusion or urinary fistula rates were found. Conclusions: In this study, very thin patients were not at a higher risk of complications when submitted to PCNL than in those with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2. Apparently, this technique can be used in these patients, just as it is used in any other type of patient, independently of their BMI. Purpose PCNL. . (PCNL) Methods casecontrol control 201 2021 characteristics (BMI) 20 <2 kgm2 kgm kg m2 m kg/m Group 1 G20 G 25 ≥2 2 nonthin non G≥25. G25 G≥25) Guys Guy s GSS (GSS 13. 13 3. 3 1:3 Results 5 (G<20 15 (G≥25) 152 15.2 54 4 5.4 Clavien 3) 176 17 6 17.6 G<2 144 14 14.4 G≥2 p 0.653. 0653 0.653 0 653 0.653) 39 9 3.9 58 8 5.8 p=0.429. p0429 p=0.429 429 (p=0.429) found Conclusions Apparently patient (PCNL 202 (BMI < G2 1: (G<2 (G≥25 15. 5. 17. G< 14. G≥ 065 0.65 65 p042 p=0.42 42 (p=0.429 (G< (G≥2 06 0.6 p04 p=0.4 (p=0.42 (G (G≥ 0. p0 p=0. (p=0.4 p=0 (p=0. p= (p=0 (p=

ABSTRACT Introduction: Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS) has emerged as a promising technique for the management of large and complex kidney stones, potentially offering advantages over traditional Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This study aims to evaluate best practices, outcomes, and future perspectives associated with ECIRS. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted from 2008 to 2024, using MESH terms and the following key words: "ECIRS" and "Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery" The search yielded 157 articles, including retrospective cohort studies, two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and four meta-analyses comparing ECIRS with PCNL. Most important findings were summarized regarding indications, patient positioning, kidney access, tract size, surgical outcomes, and complications. Results: ECIRS demonstrated higher stone-free rate, lower complication rate, and a reduced need for multiple procedures compared to traditional PCNL. Additionally, ECIRS has the potential to integrate new technologies to further enhance outcomes. Conclusion: ECIRS demonstrates significant advantages in the management of large kidney stones. Future research should focus on well-designed RCTs to provide robust evidence of its efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, potentially establishing ECIRS as the first option treatment for complex kidney stones. Introduction (ECIRS stones PCNL . (PCNL) practices outcomes Methods 200 2024 words "ECIRS 15 articles studies RCTs, , (RCTs) metaanalyses meta analyses indications positioning access size complications Results stonefree stone free rate Additionally Conclusion welldesigned well designed efficacy safety costeffectiveness, costeffectiveness cost effectiveness, effectiveness cost-effectiveness (PCNL 20 202 1 (RCTs 2

ABSTRACT Purpose: Vacuum-assisted mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (vmPCNL) is being increasingly adopted due to its faster operating times and lower incidence of postoperative infectious complications (IC), however, studies have been limited by small sample sizes. We hypothesize that vmPCNL is an efficacious treatment for renal stone disease with acceptable stone-free rates (SFR) and low incidence of IC. The objectives of this study were to measure SFR three months after surgery, determine the factors influencing SFR, and determine the rates of postoperative IC after vmPCNL. Materials and Methods: Seven hundred and sixty seven patients underwent vmPCNL for the treatment of renal stones > 20 mm at a single institution. Patients underwent postoperative computed tomography at three months to assess SFR. Postoperative fever and SIRS/Sepsis were recorded for individual patients. Multivariate logistics regression was performed to assess predictors of SFR. Results: The SFR was found to be 73.7% at three months. Stone burden (OR 0.39, 95% CI [0.33-0.46]) and age (OR 1.03, 95% CI [1.01-1.04]) emerged as statistically significant predictors of SFR on multivariate analysis. 5.5% of patients experienced postoperative fever, while 2.9% experienced SIRS/Sepsis. Conclusions: This is the largest continuous cohort of patients to undergo vmPCNL for stone disease and demonstrates that vmPCNL is safe and efficacious, with an SFR of 74% at three months. The incidence of postoperative fever and SIRS/Sepsis is 5.5% and 2.9% respectively. Further randomized studies with large sample sizes are required to ascertain the rates of these complications in comparison to conventional approaches. Purpose Vacuumassisted Vacuum assisted minipercutaneous mini percutaneous (vmPCNL IC, , (IC) however stonefree free (SFR surgery Methods 2 institution SIRSSepsis SIRS Sepsis Results 737 73 7 73.7 OR 039 0 39 0.39 95 0.330.46 033046 0.33 0.46 33 46 [0.33-0.46] 103 1 03 1.03 1.011.04 101104 1.01 1.04 01 04 [1.01-1.04] analysis 55 5 5.5 29 9 2.9 Conclusions 74 respectively approaches (IC 73. 3 0.3 330 0.330.4 03304 033 046 0.4 4 [0.33-0.46 10 1.0 011 1.011.0 10110 101 104 [1.01-1.04 5. 2. 0. 0.330. 0330 [0.33-0.4 1. 1.011. 1011 [1.01-1.0 0.330 [0.33-0. 1.011 [1.01-1. [0.33-0 [1.01-1 [0.33- [1.01- [0.33 [1.01 [0.3 [1.0 [0. [1. [0 [1 [

ABSTRACT Introduction: The ureteral access sheath (UAS) is a medical device that enables repeated entrance into the ureter and collecting system during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Its impact on stone-free rates, ureteral injuries, operative time, and postoperative complications remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing RIRS with versus without UAS for urolithiasis management. Purpose: To compare outcomes from retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for stone extraction with or without ureteral access sheath (UAS); evaluating stone-free rate (SFR), ureteral injuries, operative time, and postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library in June 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety outcomes of UAS use in RIRS for urolithiasis treatment. Articles published between 2014 and 2024 were included. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs) were calculated for binary and continuous outcomes, respectively. Results: Five RCTs comprising 466 procedures were included. Of these, 246 (52.7%) utilized UAS. The follow-up ranged from 1 week to 1 month. UAS reduced the incidence of postoperative fever (RR 0.49; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.29–0.84; p=0.009), and postoperative infection (RR 0.50; 95% CI 0.30–0.83; p=0.008). There were no significant differences between groups in terms of SFR (RR 1.05; 95% CI 0.99–1.11; p=0.10), ureteral injuries (RR 1.29; 95% CI 0.95–1.75; p=0.11), operative time (MD 3.56 minutes; 95% CI −4.15 to 11.27 minutes; p=0.36), or length of stay (MD 0.32 days; 95% CI −0.42 to 1.07 days; p=0.40). Conclusion: UAS leads to a lower rate of post-operative fever and infection. However, UAS did not significantly reduce or increase the SFR or the rate of ureteral injuries during RIRS for patients with urolithiasis. The use of UAS should be considered to decrease the risk of infectious complications, particularly in those who may be at higher risk for such complications. Introduction (UAS RIRS. . stonefree free rates controversial Therefore metaanalysis meta analysis management Purpose (RIRS SFR, , (SFR) Methods PubMed Embase 202 (RCTs treatment 201 included RRs (RRs MDs (MDs respectively Results 46 these 24 52.7% 527 52 7 (52.7% followup follow up month RR 0.49 049 0 49 95 [CI 0.29–0.84 029084 29 84 p=0.009, p0009 p p=0.009 009 p=0.009) 0.50 050 50 0.30–0.83 030083 30 83 p=0.008. p0008 p=0.008 008 p=0.008) 1.05 105 05 0.99–1.11 099111 99 11 p=0.10, p010 p=0.10 10 p=0.10) 1.29 129 0.95–1.75 095175 75 p=0.11, p011 p=0.11 p=0.11) MD 356 3 56 3.5 minutes 415 4 15 −4.1 1127 27 11.2 p=0.36, p036 p=0.36 36 p=0.36) 032 32 0.3 days 042 42 −0.4 107 07 1.0 p=0.40. p040 p=0.40 40 p=0.40) Conclusion post However (SFR 20 2 52.7 5 (52.7 0.4 04 9 0.29–0.8 02908 8 p000 p=0.00 00 0.5 0.30–0.8 03008 0.99–1.1 09911 p01 p=0.1 1.2 12 0.95–1.7 09517 35 3. 41 −4. 112 11. p03 p=0.3 03 0. −0. 1. p04 p=0.4 52. (52. 0.29–0. 0290 p00 p=0.0 0.30–0. 0300 0.99–1. 0991 p0 p=0. 0.95–1. 0951 −4 −0 (52 0.29–0 029 0.30–0 030 0.99–1 099 p=0 0.95–1 095 − (5 0.29– 02 0.30– 0.99– 09 p= 0.95– ( 0.29 0.30 0.99 0.95 0.2 0.9

ABSTRACT The prevalence of nephrolithiasis is increasing worldwide. Despite advances in understanding the pathogenesis of lithiasis, few studies have demonstrated that specific clinical interventions reduce the recurrence of nephrolithiasis. The aim of this review is to analyze the current data and potential effects of iSGLT2 in lithogenesis and try to answer the question: Should we also “gliflozin” our patients with kidney stone disease? worldwide lithiasis iSGLT question gliflozin “gliflozin disease

RESUMO A prevalência da nefrolitíase está aumentando em todo o mundo. Apesar dos avanços na compreensão da patogênese da doença litiásica, poucos estudos demonstraram que intervenções clínicas específicas diminuem a recorrência da nefrolitíase. O objetivo desta revisão é analisar os dados atuais e efeitos potenciais dos iSGLT2 na doença litiásica e tentar responder à pergunta: devemos também “gliflozinar” os litiásicos? mundo iSGLT pergunta gliflozinar “gliflozinar litiásicos

ABSTRACT The prevalence of nephrolithiasis is increasing worldwide. Despite advances in understanding the pathogenesis of lithiasis, few studies have demonstrated that specific clinical interventions reduce the recurrence of nephrolithiasis. The aim of this review is to analyze the current data and potential effects of iSGLT2 in lithogenesis and try to answer the question: Should we also “gliflozin” our patients with kidney stone disease? worldwide lithiasis iSGLT question gliflozin “gliflozin disease

RESUMO A prevalência da nefrolitíase está aumentando em todo o mundo. Apesar dos avanços na compreensão da patogênese da doença litiásica, poucos estudos demonstraram que intervenções clínicas específicas diminuem a recorrência da nefrolitíase. O objetivo desta revisão é analisar os dados atuais e efeitos potenciais dos iSGLT2 na doença litiásica e tentar responder à pergunta: devemos também “gliflozinar” os litiásicos? mundo iSGLT pergunta gliflozinar “gliflozinar litiásicos

Abstract Introduction: Neanderthals, our extinct relatives, exhibited distinct nasal morphology compared to Homo sapiens. Objectives: This study explores these differences through a comparative analysis of cranionasal measurements. Material and Methods: Data on Neanderthal nasal features were obtained from existing paleoanthropological literature, focusing on 16 hominid fossils. A parallel sample of 38 modern human CT scans was retrospectively reviewed, with measurements focusing on nasal region. Results: Neanderthals displayed significantly larger nasal cavities with increased basion-nasion and basion-prosthion distances, wider intercanine dimensions, and larger nasal breadth and height compared to modern humans. Choanal width and nasal index did not differ significantly. Conclusions: These findings suggest functional adaptations in Neanderthal nasal morphology, potentially aiding in thermoregulation within cold environments. Further research is needed to fully understand the evolutionary significance of these adaptations.

Resumo Introdução: Os Neandertais, nossos parentes extintos, exibiam uma morfologia nasal distinta em comparação com o Homo sapiens. Objetivos: Este estudo explora essas diferenças através de uma análise comparativa de medidas nasocranianas. Material e Métodos: Dados sobre as características nasais do Homo Neanderthalensis e Homo Heilderbergensis foram obtidos a partir da literatura paleoantropológica existente, com foco em 16 fósseis. Uma amostra paralela de 38 de crânios de Homo Sapiens foi analisada retrospetivamente mediante tomografia computadorizada (TC), com obtenção de medições relativas à região nasal. Resultados: Os Hominídeos exibiram cavidades nasais significativamente maiores, com distâncias basion-nasion e basion-prosthion aumentadas, dimensões intercaninas maiores e maior largura e altura nasal em comparação com os humanos modernos. A largura coanal e o índice nasal não diferiram significativamente. Conclusões: Esses achados sugerem adaptações funcionais na morfologia nasal neandertal, potencialmente auxiliando na termorregulação em ambientes frios. Pesquisas adicionais são necessárias para compreender totalmente o significado evolutivo dessas adaptações.

ABSTRACT This study aims to develop an eco-friendly, recyclable, and cost-effective composite material for use in storage sheds and machine workshops. The new composite consists of stone dust and gravel bricks bonded by recycled polypropylene through heat treatment. The main focus of this study is to determine the effects of varying polymer proportions on the resistance and permeability properties of the studied composite, intending to achieve optimal properties, i.e., high resistance and low permeability. To do this, the 2² factorial arrangement was employed, comprising four treatments along with three central points, each replicated three times. The data was statistically analyzed at a 95% confidence level from an adapted methodology. This involved tests of compression strength, 3-point bending strength, Los Angeles abrasion, and water absorption by immersion, in which three percentages of polymer content (PC) - 15, 25, and 35% - and aggregates (fine sand, medium sand, and coarse sand - FS, MS, and CS) were used to prepare the composite. The developed composite was deemed suitable for use in storage warehouses and machine workshops, as it presented physical and mechanical appropriate characteristics, i.e., a low water absorption rate and high resistance to compression and abrasion, in addition to being an environmentally friendly composite. ecofriendly, ecofriendly eco friendly, eco-friendly recyclable costeffective cost effective workshops treatment ie i e i.e. 2 employed points times 95 methodology strength 3point point 3 abrasion immersion PC (PC 15 25 35 fine FS MS CS characteristics i.e 9 1

RESUMO Este estudo tem como objetivo desenvolver um material compósito ecológico, reciclável e de baixo custo para uso em galpões de armazenamento e oficinas de máquinas. O novo compósito consiste em um bloco de pó de pedra e cascalho unidos por polipropileno reciclado através de tratamento térmico. O foco principal deste estudo é determinar os efeitos de variações nas proporções de polímeros nas propriedades de resistência e permeabilidade do compósito estudado, visando alcançar propriedades ótimas, ou seja, alta resistência e baixa permeabilidade. Para isso, utilizou-se o arranjo fatorial 2², composto por quatro tratamentos e três pontos centrais, cada um replicado três vezes. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente com nível de confiança de 95% a partir de metodologia adaptada. Isso envolveu testes de resistência à compressão, resistência à flexão em 3 pontos, abrasão Los Angeles e absorção de água por imersão, nos quais três porcentagens de teor de polímero (PC) - 15, 25 e 35% - e agregados (areia fina, areia média, e areia grossa - FS, MS e CS) foram usadas para preparar o compósito. O compósito desenvolvido foi considerado adequado para utilização em armazéns e oficinas de máquinas, pois apresentou características físicas e mecânicas adequadas, ou seja, baixa taxa de absorção de água e alta resistência à compressão e abrasão, além de ser um compósito ecologicamente correto. ecológico máquinas térmico estudado ótimas seja isso utilizouse utilizou se 2² centrais vezes 95 adaptada imersão PC (PC 15 2 35 fina média FS CS adequadas correto 9 1

We present a series of 12 OSL/IRSL dates that revise and complete the chronology of the important Middle (MSA) and Later Stone Age (LSA) site Umbeli Belli in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. These dates shift the previous radiometric ages thousands of years older than earlier measurements and play a key role in revising the cultural stratigraphy of KwaZulu-Natal. We also discuss how these dates bring the chrono- and cultural stratigraphy of southern Africa into clearer focus. The Robberg sequence of Umbeli Belli is now firmly dated to 21 ± 2 ka, whereas the preceding Early LSA assemblage dates to ~32 ka, representing one of the earliest dates for this cultural expression in the broader region. The final MSA assemblages from Layer 7 to 9 now date to between 35 ka and 40 ka, overlapping more tightly with comparable assemblages from Sibhudu, Umhlatuzana and other sites. Layer 10, which was previously also assigned to the final MSA, now dates to ~47-54 ka, placing the assemblage within the temporal range of the Late MSA. The new dates provide a good explanation for the clear differences in material culture between Layer 10 and the younger layers. We also present two new ages for the deeper horizons 11b and 12 at Umbeli Belli, dating to 76 ± 9 ka and 80 ± 9 ka, respectively. SIGNIFICANCE: • Revised and new age estimates are given for the Middle and Later Stone Age sequence of Umbeli Belli. • These age changes allow new comparisons with nearby prehistoric sites. • They change our view of the regional variability of technologies and cultures between ca. 80 and 20 ka on the east coast of South Africa.

ABSTRACT Purpose To assess the incidence of the most common intra- and early postoperative complications following RIRS in a large series of patients with kidney stones. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with kidney stones who underwent RIRS across 21 centers from January 2018 to August 2021, as part of the Global Multicenter Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcome (FLEXOR) Registry. Results Among 6669 patients undergoing RIRS, 4.5% experienced intraoperative pelvicalyceal system bleeding without necessitating blood transfusion. Only 0.1% of patients, required a blood transfusion. The second most frequent intraoperative complication was ureteric injury due to the ureteral access sheath requiring stenting (1.8% of patients). Postoperatively, the most prevalent early complications were fever/infections requiring antibiotics (6.3%), blood transfusions (5.5%), and sepsis necessitating intensive care unit admission (1.3%). In cases of ureteric injury, a notably higher percentage of patients exhibited multiple stones and stone(s) in the lower pole, and these cases were correlated with prolonged lasing and overall surgical time. Hematuria requiring a blood transfusion was associated with an increased prevalence of larger median maximum stone diameters, particularly among patients with stones exceeding 20 mm. Furthermore, these cases exhibited a significant prolongation in surgical time. Sepsis necessitating admission to the intensive care unit was more prevalent among the elderly, concomitant with a significantly larger median maximum stone diameter. Conclusions Our analysis showed that RIRS has a good safety profile but bleeding requiring transfusions, ureteric injury, fever, and sepsis are still the most common complications despite advancements in technology. intra 2 201 2021 FLEXOR (FLEXOR Registry 666 45 4 5 4.5 01 0 1 0.1 1.8% 18 8 (1.8 patients. . patients) Postoperatively feverinfections fever infections 6.3%, 63 6.3% , 6 3 (6.3%) 5.5%, 55 5.5% (5.5%) 1.3%. 13 1.3% (1.3%) s stone(s pole time diameters mm Furthermore elderly diameter technology 202 66 4. 0. 1.8 (1. 6.3 (6.3% 5.5 (5.5% 1.3 (1.3% 1. (1 6. (6.3 5. (5.5 (1.3 ( (6. (5. (6 (5

ABSTRACT This article presents the issue of water access in the context of the Paraguayan Chaco and the alternative that the Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Pro Comunidades Indígenas (PCI), along with indigenous and peasant communities in the area, has been experimenting with to address the problem; from water access to the challenge of its treatment and purification for human consumption. The methodological approach of this research is qualitative, employing participant observation and semi-structured interviews with technicians, coordinators of the implementing institution of the nature-based safe water system, and community leaders. Additionally, bibliographic consultations and review of PCI institutional documents were conducted to obtain secondary data. The results of this study provide a description of PCI's experiences and lessons learned about a nature-based safe water treatment system, which utilizes biofilters such as stone, gravel, sand, and charcoal. This article covers the trials for the construction of the sys- tem, explains its operation, and discusses its implementation in communities. The nature-based safe water system proves effective for small populations and provides a solution to a long-standing problem in the Chaco territory. Its construction is easy, short-term, and much less costly than conventional water treatment systems. Additionally, the joint construction of the system with the residents, technical training in its operation and maintenance, greatly contributes to its sustainability. This article contributes to the identification, application, and study of suitable water systems for areas with difficult access to this vital liquid, such as the Paraguayan Chaco. Furthermore, it is an innovative and eco-friendly system, meaning it is environmentally friendly.

RESUMEN Este artículo presenta la problemática del acceso al agua en el contexto del Chaco paraguayo y la alternativa que la Organización No Gubernamental (ONG), Pro Comunidades Indígenas (PCI), junto con las comunidades indígenas y campesinas de la zona, ha venido ensayando para buscar solución a la problemática; desde el acceso al agua hasta el desafío de su tratamiento y potabilización para el consumo humano. El enfoque metodológico de esta investigación es cualitativo, empleando la observación-participante y entrevistas semiestructuradas con técnicos, coordinadores de la institución ejecutora del sistema de agua segura basado en la naturaleza y líderes comunitarios. Además, se realizaron consultas bibliográficas y revisión de documentos institucionales de PCI para obtener datos secundarios. Los resultados de este estudio arrojan la descripción de las experiencias y las lecciones aprendidas de PCI sobre un sistema de tratamiento de agua segura basado en la naturaleza, que utiliza los llamados biofiltros, como piedra, grava, arena y carbón. Este artículo parte de los ensayos para la construcción del sistema, la explicación del funcionamiento de este hasta su implementación en las comunidades. El sistema de agua segura basado en la naturaleza resulta efectivo para poblaciones pequeñas y proporciona una solución a una problemática de larga data en el territorio chaqueño. Su construcción es fácil, de corto plazo y mucho menos costoso que el sistema convencional de tratamiento de agua. Así también, la construcción conjunta del sistema con los pobladores, la capacitación técnica a los mismos en su operación y mantenimiento, contribuyen enormemente a la sostenibilidad de este. Este artículo es una contribución a la identificación, aplicación y estudio de sistemas de agua adecuados para zonas de difícil acceso a este líquido vital, como es el caso del Chaco paraguayo. Además, se trata de un sistema innovador y ecológico, es decir, amigable con el medio ambiente.

Abstract The action of taphonomic processes on rock fragments or on lithic artifacts may generate stone tool pseudomorphs. This is particularly the case if postdepositional processes acting upon lithics include percussion and/or pressure mechanisms. Trampling is one of the most ubiquitous taphonomic processes in archaeological contexts, in particular surface loci. In this paper, we present a techno-morphological characterization of experimental lithic pseudotools produced by human treadage in order to contribute to the identification of the taphonomic background noise within different regions. Experimental artifacts were analyzed using the main classification methodology applied by lithic analysts in Argentina, to maximize the comparability of the outcomes of this research. Edge damage, stone tool type, flake scar size, flaking pattern, etc., are described. Trampling experiences included several raw materials represented within Pampa and Patagonia archaeological assemblages. It allowed us to explore variations within trampling effects on different rocks and substrates as well as to generate expectations on the contribution of pseudotools to the archaeological assemblages.

Resumen La acción de los procesos tafonómicos sobre litos naturales o artefactos puede generar pseudomorfos de instrumentos líticos. Esto es particularmente cierto para los procesos postdepositacionales que incluyen a los mecanismos de percusión y presión en su funcionamiento. Entre ellos se encuentra el pisoteo, uno de los procesos tafonómicos más ubicuos en distintos contextos arqueológicos, especialmente aquellos de superficie. A fin de contribuir a la identificación del ruido de fondo tafonómico en diferentes regiones, en este trabajo realizamos la caracterización morfológica de pseudoinstrumentos líticos producidos experimentalmente por pisoteo humano. Para maximizar la comparabilidad de nuestros resultados, analizamos las piezas experimentales siguiendo la propuesta morfo-tipológica de uso más difundido en Argentina. Se describen el tipo de rastro complementario, grupos tipológicos, extensión de los filos, la anchura y patrón de los lascados, entre otros aspectos. Las experiencias incluyeron el pisoteo sobre sustrato duro y blando de piezas confeccionadas con una amplia variedad de materias primas líticas representadas en diversos conjuntos arqueológicos de Pampa y Patagonia. Ello permitió explorar las variaciones existentes en los efectos del pisoteo sobre distintas rocas y sustratos, así como generar expectativas sobre la contribución del ruido tafonómico a los conjuntos líticos bajo la forma de pseudoinstrumentos.