A method for determining Cd, Cr, Cu, and Fe in biodiesel samples is proposed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF) after extraction induced by emulsion breaking (EIEB). A volume of 7.0 mL of biodiesel and an aliquot of 500 µL of Triton X-100 solution (2%, v v-1) prepared in nitric acid were used to prepare the emulsion. After 5 min of manual agitation, phase separation was performed by centrifugation for 5 min at 2000 rpm. A 100 µL aliquot of the enriched aqueous phase was collected and applied to the center of a filter paper. After drying, the analysis was performed directly on the paper using EDXRF. The detection limits were 60, 20, 30, and 60 μg kg-1 for Cd, Cr, Cu, and Fe, respectively. Recovery tests were performed by adding 450 μg kg-1 of the analytes in biodiesel samples, and the results varied between 87 and 113%. The procedure was applied to biodiesel samples, and the concentrations obtained for the four analytes were compared with those obtained by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) after sample digestion. Cd Cr Cu Xray X ray EDXRF (EDXRF EIEB. EIEB . (EIEB) 70 7 0 7. 50 X100 X-10 2%, 2 (2% v1 1 v-1 agitation 200 rpm 10 drying 20 30 6 kg1 kg kg- respectively 45 8 113 113% ICP OES digestion (EIEB X10 X-1 2% (2 v- 3 4 11 X1 X- (

ABSTRACT In Brazil, the COVID-19 burden was substantial, and risk factors associated with higher in-hospital mortality rates have been extensively studied. However, information on short-term all-cause mortality and the factors associated with death in patients who survived the hospitalization period of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection is limited. We analyzed the six-month post-hospitalization mortality rate and possible risk factors of COVID-19 patients in a single center in Brazil. This is a retrospective cohort study focused on a six-month follow-up. The exclusion criteria were death during hospitalization, transference to another hospital, and age under 18. We collected data from the charts of all hospitalized patients from March 2020 to December 2020 with a positive RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2, resulting in a sample size of 106 patients. The main outcome was death after hospitalization, whereas comorbidities and demographics were evaluated as risk factors. The crude post-hospitalization death rate was 16%. The first 30 days of follow-up had the highest mortality rate. In a Cox regression model for post-hospitalization mortality, previous chronic kidney disease (HR, 4.06, 95%CI 1.46 – 11.30) and longer hospital stay (HR 1.01, 95%CI 1.00 – 1.02) were the only factors statistically associated with death. In conclusion, a high six-month all-cause mortality was observed. Within the six-month follow-up, a higher risk of death was observed for patients who had prior CKD and longer hospital stay. These findings highlight the importance of more intensive medical surveillance during this period. Brazil COVID19 COVID 19 COVID-1 substantial inhospital studied However shortterm short term allcause cause SARSCoV2 SARSCoV SARS CoV 2 SARS-CoV- limited sixmonth six month posthospitalization post followup. followup follow up. up 18 202 RTPCR RT PCR SARSCoV2, 2, 10 16 16% 3 HR, HR 406 4 06 4.06 95CI CI 95 146 1 46 1.4 11.30 1130 11 101 01 1.01 100 00 1.0 1.02 102 02 conclusion followup, up, COVID1 COVID- SARS-CoV 20 40 0 4.0 9 14 1. 11.3 113 4. 11.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the hematological and coagulation parameters according to the clinical outcomes of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). We analyzed the hematological and coagulation parameters of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 at admission, and two and three weeks during hospitalization. To assess the performance of these parameters in predicting poor outcomes, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were created. We studied 128 patients with COVID-19 (59.2±17.7 years, 56% male). Non-survivors (n=54, 42%) presented significant alterations in hematological and coagulation parameters at admission, such as increased in white blood cells (WBC), neutrophil, and band cell counts, as well as elevated prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time, and D-dimer levels. During follow-up, the same group presented a gradual increase in D-dimer and PT levels, accompanied by a reduction in PT activity, hemoglobin, and red blood cell count (RBC). ROC curves showed that WBC, neutrophil, and band cell counts presented the best area under the curve (AUC) values with sensitivity and specificity of >70%; however, a logistic regression model combining all the parameters, except for RBC, presented an AUC of 0.89, sensitivity of 84.84%, and specificity of 77.41%. Our study shows that significant alterations in hematological and coagulation tests at admission could be useful predictors of disease severity and mortality in COVID-19. COVID19. COVID19 COVID 19 . (COVID-19) COVID-1 hospitalization (ROC created 12 59.2±17.7 592177 59 2 17 7 (59.2±17. years 56 male. male male) Nonsurvivors Non survivors n=54, n54 n 54 (n=54 42% 42 WBC , (WBC) neutrophil PT, (PT) Ddimer D dimer levels followup, followup follow up, up follow-up activity hemoglobin RBC. RBC (RBC) (AUC >70% 70 however 089 0 89 0.89 8484 84 84.84% 7741 77 41 77.41% 19. COVID1 1 (COVID-19 COVID- 59.2±17. 59217 5 (59.2±17 n=54 n5 (n=5 4 (WBC (PT (RBC >70 08 8 0.8 848 84.84 774 77.41 (COVID-1 59.2±17 5921 (59.2±1 n=5 (n= >7 0. 84.8 77.4 (COVID- 59.2±1 592 (59.2± n= (n > 84. 77. (COVID 59.2± (59.2 59.2 (59. 59. (59 (5 (

Abstract Food processing allows a wide variation in the final quality of the product, which directly depends on the quality of the raw material used, the processing conditions, storage and commercialization. Salting, for example, is one of the oldest methods used to preserve meat. In the meat industry, the incorporation of salts into products is commonly used to improve dietary functionality and ensure food safety. Thus, the objective of this review was to understand that the discarded matrix meat can be used to make jerky meat, adding value to the final product. The processing of jerked beef is based on the osmotic dehydration process in counter flow, promoted by the penetration of salt with consequent exit of water from the inter and extra fibrillar compartments to the surface, with subsequent drying. At the same time, myosin denaturation occurs as a result of high temperatures, as well as myoglobin oxidation, promoted by salt, increasing the susceptibility to protein oxidation. The use of discarded animal meat to make jerky adds value to the by-product, improving sensory quality.

L’objectif est de discuter de la manière dont la question de la politique étrangère est apparue dans la campagne électorale présidentielle au Brésil en 2022. Une articulation théorique-historique-empirique a été faite, apportant des subventions bibliographiques d’autres campagnes, en plus du contexte national et international. Le cadre théorique comprend le comportement politique, le marketing politique et la politique étrangère. Une recherche empirique primaire a été réalisée pour analyser le contenu des programmes officiels des deux principaux candidats et leurs performances dans les émissions de télévision gratuit, dans les débats télévisés et dans l’agenda du Jornal Nacional sur TV Globo. Les candidats ont présenté les lignes générales d’une politique étrangère, qui est cohérent avec leurs programmes de gouvernement et leurs conceptions politico-idéologiques, qui a été en partie exprimé dans leur programme officiel et en partie gardé par “l’ambiguïté stratégique”. D’autre part, l’utilisation des médias était guidée par un marketing politico-électoral immédiat, visant à capter le vote rationnel-pragmatique et le vote des valeurs. Centré sur la “petite politique”, laissant le débat d’ensemble pratiquement exclu. D’autre part, l’utilisation des médias a été guidée par un marketing politico-électoral immédiat, visant à capter le vote rationnel-pragmatique et le vote des valeurs. Centré sur la “petite politique”, laissant le débat d’ensemble pratiquement exclu. Lobjectif L objectif 2022 théoriquehistoriqueempirique historique faite dautres d autres campagnes international gratuit lagenda l agenda Globo dune une politicoidéologiques, politicoidéologiques politico idéologiques, idéologiques politico-idéologiques lambiguïté ambiguïté stratégique. stratégique . stratégique” Dautre D autre part lutilisation utilisation politicoélectoral électoral immédiat rationnelpragmatique rationnel pragmatique valeurs petite , politique” densemble ensemble exclu 202 20 2

The objective is to discuss how the issue of foreign policy appeared in the presidential election campaign in Brazil in 2022. A theoretical-historical-empirical articulation was made, bringing bibliographical subsidies from other campaigns, in addition to the national and international context. The theoretical framework includes political behavior, political marketing and foreign policy. A primary empirical research was carried out to analyze the content of the official programs of the two main candidates and their performances in free TV time, in TV debates and in the agenda of Jornal Nacional on TV Globo. The candidates have general lines of foreign policy that are coherent with their government programs and their political-ideological conceptions, which were, in part, expressed in their official programs and, in part, guarded by “strategic ambiguity”. On the other hand, the use of the media was guided by an immediate political-electoral marketing, aimed at capturing the rational-pragmatic vote and the vote for values. Focused on “small politics”, leaving comprehensive debate practically excluded. 2022 theoreticalhistoricalempirical historical made campaigns context behavior time Globo politicalideological ideological conceptions were part strategic ambiguity. ambiguity . ambiguity” hand politicalelectoral electoral rationalpragmatic rational pragmatic values small politics, politics , politics” excluded 202 20 2

O objetivo deste artigo é discutir como a questão da política externa apareceu na campanha eleitoral presidencial do Brasil em 2022. Foi feita uma articulação teórica-histórica-empírica, trazendo subsídios bibliográficos de outras campanhas, além do contexto nacional e internacional. O referencial teórico inclui comportamento político, marketing político e política externa. Foi feita uma pesquisa empírica primária de análise de conteúdo dos programas oficiais dos dois principais candidatos e de suas performances no horário gratuito de TV, nos debates de TV e na agenda do Jornal Nacional da TV Globo. Os candidatos têm linhas gerais de política externa que são coerentes com seus programas de governo e suas concepções político-ideológicas, as quais ficaram, em parte, expressas em seus programas oficiais e, em parte, guardadas pela “ambiguidade estratégica”. Por outro lado, o uso da mídia foi guiado por um marketing político-eleitoral imediatista, voltado para a captação do voto racional-pragmático e do voto por valores. Focado na “pequena política”, deixando o debate abrangente praticamente excluído. 2022 teóricahistóricaempírica, teóricahistóricaempírica teórica histórica empírica, teórica-histórica-empírica campanhas internacional Globo políticoideológicas, políticoideológicas ideológicas, ideológicas político-ideológicas ficaram parte ambiguidade estratégica. estratégica . estratégica” lado políticoeleitoral imediatista racionalpragmático racional pragmático valores pequena política, , política” excluído 202 20 2

Abstract Introduction: Members of the Herpesviridae family have been described in patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), but the clinical impact on renal function is not well known. Methods: HSV1, HSV2, VZV, EBV, CMV, HHV-6, HHV-7, and HHV-8 were evaluated by molecular biology on admission in blood samples from 40 consecutive SLE patients hospitalized for lupus activity. Results: Patients were 90.0% female, 77.5% non-white, with average age of 32.7 ± 13.6 years. We found positivity for EBV (65.0%), CMV (30.0%), HSV-1 (30.0%), HHV-6 (12.5%), and HHV-7 (7.5%). For all viruses, age, SLEDAI, hematological tests, ferritin, LDH, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were not significant. However, EBV positivity was a significant factor for higher serum creatinine (3.0 ± 2.8 vs. 0.9 ± 0.8; P = 0.001) and urea (86 ± 51 vs. 50 ± 46; P = 0.03). Moreover, positive cases for EBV only or with combined co-infections (66.7%-CMV; 58.3%-HSV-1) or negative for EBV only were evaluated by Kruskal-Wallis test again showed statistical significance for serum creatinine and urea (both P ≤ 0.01), with posttest also showing statistical differences for renal dysfunction and EBV presence (alone or in combined co-infections). The presence of EBV viral load was also significant for nephrotic-range proteinuria, renal flare, and the need for hemodialysis. Conclusion: Members of the Herpeviridae family (mainly EBV, HSV-1 and CMV) are common on hospital admission of SLE patients, reaching 65% for EBV, which seems to be associated with renal dysfunction and could reflect a previous association or overlapping disease, which is not well understood. Introduction SLE, , (SLE) known Methods HSV1 HSV HSV2 VZV HHV6, HHV6 HHV 6, 6 HHV7, HHV7 7, 7 HHV8 8 HHV- 4 activity Results 900 90 0 90.0 female 775 77 5 77.5 nonwhite, nonwhite non white, white non-white 327 32 32. 136 13 13. years 65.0%, 650 65.0% 65 (65.0%) 30.0%, 300 30.0% 30 (30.0%) 1 HSV- 12.5%, 125 12.5% 12 (12.5%) 7.5%. 75 7.5% . (7.5%) viruses SLEDAI tests ferritin LDH Creactive C reactive protein ESR (ESR However 3.0 3 (3. 28 2 2. vs 09 9 0. 0.8 08 0.001 0001 001 86 (8 46 0.03. 003 0.03 03 0.03) Moreover coinfections co infections 66.7%CMV 667CMV 66.7% 66 (66.7%-CMV 58.3%HSV1 583HSV1 58.3% 58 58.3%-HSV-1 KruskalWallis Kruskal Wallis both 0.01, 0.01 01 0.01) alone coinfections. co-infections) nephroticrange nephrotic range proteinuria flare hemodialysis Conclusion mainly disease understood (SLE 90. 77. 65.0 (65.0% 30.0 (30.0% 12.5 (12.5% 7.5 (7.5% 3. (3 0.00 000 00 ( 0.0 667 66.7 58.3%HSV 583HSV 583 58.3 58.3%-HSV- 65. (65.0 30. (30.0 12. (12.5 7. (7.5 66. 58. 58.3%-HSV (65. (30. (12. (7. (65 (30 (12 (7 (6 (1

Resumo Introdução: Membros da família Herpesviridae tem sido descritos em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES), mas o impacto clínico na função renal não é bem conhecido. Métodos: Avaliou-se HSV1, HSV2, VZV, EBV, CMV, HHV-6, HHV-7, HHV-8 por biologia molecular na admissão em amostras sanguíneas de 40 pacientes com LES consecutivos hospitalizados por atividade lúpica. Resultados: Pacientes 90,0% mulheres, 77,5% não brancos, idade média 32,7 ± 13,6 anos. Encontramos positividade para EBV (65,0%), CMV (30,0%), HSV-1 (30,0%), HHV-6 (12,5%), HHV-7 (7,5%). Para todos os vírus, idade, SLEDAI, exames hematológicos, ferritina, LDH, proteína C reativa, velocidade de hemossedimentação não foram significativos. Entretanto, positividade para EBV foi estatisticamente significativo para creatinina (3,0 ± 2,8 vs. 0,9 ± 0,8; P = 0,001) e ureia (86 ± 51 vs. 50 ± 46; P = 0,03) séricas mais elevadas. Ademais, casos positivos para EBV isolado ou com coinfecções combinadas (66,7%-CMV; 58,3%-HSV-1) ou negativos apenas para EBV foram avaliados pelo teste Kruskal-Wallis e novamente mostraram significância estatística para creatinina e ureia séricas (ambas P ≤ 0,01), com pós-teste mostrando também diferenças estatísticas para disfunção renal e presença de EBV (sozinho ou em coinfecções combinadas). A presença de carga viral do EBV também foi significativa para proteinúria de faixa nefrótica, inflamação aguda, necessidade de hemodiálise. Conclusão: Membros da família Herpeviridae (principalmente EBV, HSV-1, CMV) são comuns na admissão de pacientes com LES, chegando a 65% para EBV, que parece associar-se à disfunção renal podendo refletir associação prévia ou doença sobreposta, o que não é bem compreendido. Introdução , (LES) conhecido Métodos Avaliouse Avaliou se HSV1 HSV HSV2 VZV HHV6, HHV6 HHV 6, 6 HHV7, HHV7 7, 7 HHV8 8 HHV- 4 lúpica Resultados 900 90 0 90,0 mulheres 775 77 5 77,5 brancos 327 32 32, 136 13 13, anos 65,0%, 650 65,0% 65 (65,0%) 30,0%, 300 30,0% 30 (30,0%) 1 HSV- 12,5%, 125 12,5% 12 (12,5%) 7,5%. 75 7,5% . (7,5%) vírus SLEDAI hematológicos ferritina LDH reativa significativos Entretanto 3,0 3 (3, 28 2 2, vs 09 9 0, 0,8 08 0,001 0001 001 86 (8 46 0,03 003 03 elevadas Ademais 66,7%CMV 667CMV 66,7% 66 (66,7%-CMV 58,3%HSV1 583HSV1 58,3% 58 58,3%-HSV-1 KruskalWallis Kruskal Wallis ambas 0,01, 0,01 01 0,01) pósteste pós sozinho combinadas. combinadas) nefrótica aguda hemodiálise Conclusão principalmente 1, associarse associar sobreposta compreendido (LES 90, 77, 65,0 (65,0% 30,0 (30,0% 12,5 (12,5% 7,5 (7,5% 3, (3 0,00 000 00 ( 0,0 667 66,7 58,3%HSV 583HSV 583 58,3 58,3%-HSV- 65, (65,0 30, (30,0 12, (12,5 (7,5 66, 58, 58,3%-HSV (65, (30, (12, (7, (65 (30 (12 (7 (6 (1

Resumen El objetivo principal de esta revisión fue obtener datos de aplicación de la inteligencia artificial en el Ecuador dentro del sector de la educación superior. Se examinaron los trabajos de integración curricular desarrollados en tres centros de educación superior estatales del Ecuador. Se extrajo de cada trabajo información sobre: campo detallado de conocimiento de la carrera que realizó el trabajo, campo detallado de conocimiento del área de aplicación de la inteligencia artificial, técnica aplicada y software utilizado. Se concluyó lo siguiente: los campos de conocimientos con mayores publicaciones son los relacionadas a la electrónica, mecatrónica y tecnologías de software, el campo de aplicación de la inteligencia artificial es muy variado sin mostrar alguna tendencia específica, las técnicas más utilizadas son machine learning y redes neuronales, finalmente el uso de software libre y de pago es balanceado sin que predomine alguno de ellos.

Abstract This review was conducted to obtain data on the application of artificial intelligence in the Ecuadorian higher education system. The curricular integration projects, developed in three state higher education centers in Ecuador, were examined to extract information about the following topics: the detailed field of knowledge of the job that was performed; the detailed field of knowledge of the area of application of artificial intelligence; the applied technique; and the software used. It was concluded that: the fields of knowledge with the greatest publications are those related to electronics, mechatronics, and software technologies; the artificial intelligence field is very wide and does not show any specific trend; the most used techniques are machine learning and neural networks; and finally, the use of free and paid software is balanced without any of them predominating.

Resumo Introdução No Brasil, algumas cidades adotaram várias medidas que provavelmente tiveram um impacto positivo no controle da Covid-19. Objetivo Relatar a distribuição dos casos de Covid-19 no Brasil, no estado do Rio de Janeiro e na cidade de Niterói. Paralelamente, buscamos demonstrar as estratégias preventivas adotadas pela cidade de Niterói para o controle da Covid-19. Método Dados fornecidos pelo Ministério da Saúde e Fundação Municipal de Saúde de Niterói foram usados para relatar o número de casos e óbitos causados pela Covid-19. Para algumas análises, os dados foram agrupados por semana e normalizados para 100.000 habitantes. Resultados Até 18 de julho de 2020, o Brasil registrou 2.074.860 casos e 78.772 mortes e o estado do Rio de Janeiro registrou 135.230 casos e 11.919 mortes; ambos ainda apresentando curvas ascendentes para mortes por Covid-19. Em contrapartida, a taxa de novos óbitos/100.000 habitantes é consistentemente menor na cidade de Niterói. Estimamos que 712 mortes foram evitadas pelas medidas adotadas pela cidade de Niterói, em comparação com o que foi observado no Rio de Janeiro. Conclusão As medidas preventivas adotadas pela cidade de Niterói foram eficazes na redução tanto da disseminação do vírus quanto da taxa de óbitos. Portanto, esta discussão se mostra relevante para a tomada de decisões futuras durante o surto de Covid-19 no Brasil.

Abstract Background In Brazil, some local city government’s adopted several measures, which probably had a positive impact on COVID-19 control. Objective To report the distribution of COVID-19 cases in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro state and Niterói city. In parallel, we aimed to demonstrate the preventive strategies adopted by Niterói city. Method Data provided by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and Municipal Health Foundation of Niterói were used to report COVID-19 cases and deaths. For some analysis, data were grouped by week and normalized for 100,000 inhabitants. Results By July 18th, 2020, Brazil reported 2,074,860 cases and 78,772 deaths and Rio de Janeiro state registered 135,230 cases and 11,919 deaths; both still presenting ascendant curves for COVID-19 deaths. In contrast, the rate of new deaths per 100,000 inhabitants is consistently lower in Niterói city. Importantly, we estimated that 712 deaths were prevented by the measures adopted by Niterói city, in comparison to which was observed in Rio de Janeiro. Conclusion The early preventive measures adopted in Niterói city were effective in reducing both the viral spread and rate of deaths. In this regard, this discussion could be relevant for making future decisions during the COVID-19 outbreak in Brazil.

Resumo A perceção do risco muda ao longo da vida. Estudos anteriores mostraram que os jovens adultos são mais propensos a comportamentos de risco do que os adultos mais velhos. Será que estas diferenças relacionadas com a idade influenciam a perceção de risco durante uma crise pandémica? Aqui, investigámos como a idade influenciou o risco previsto durante o estado de emergência da COVID-19 em Portugal. Demonstramos que as estimativas de tempo projetadas (e.g., avaliações baseadas em agora vs. "daqui a duas semanas", ou "daqui a quatro semanas") tanto do comportamento de risco como da importância da prevenção da transmissão diminuem ao longo do tempo. É importante notar que o risco projetado diminuiu mais acentuadamente para os jovens adultos do que para os adultos mais velhos. Os nossos resultados sugerem que os jovens adultos têm uma perceção do risco relacionado com epidemias diferente do que os adultos mais velhos e parecem corroborar a perspetiva de que a elaboração de políticas de saúde pública durante epidemias deve visar de forma diferente os jovens adultos.

Abstract Perception of risk is known to change throughout the lifespan. Previous studies showed that younger adults are more prone to risk behaviours than older adults. Do these age-related differences influence risk perception during a pandemic crisis? Here, we investigated how age influenced predicted risk during the COVID-19 emergency state in Portugal. We show that time-projected estimations (e.g., appraisals based on ‘now’ vs. ‘in two weeks’ time’, or ‘in four weeks’ time’) of both risk behaviour and importance of transmission prevention decrease over time. Importantly, projected risk decreased more steeply for younger than older adults. Our findings suggest that younger adults have a different perception of epidemic-related risk than older adults. This seems to support the view that public health policy making during epidemics should differentially target younger adults.

Abstract This work aims to evaluate the application of ultrasound and marinate with extract of acerola (Malpighia emarginata) residue on the tenderness and lipid oxidation of the meat pork. Samples of loin (Longissimus dorsi) containing approximately 90 g, 10 cm long, 5 cm wide, and 2 cm high were extracted from the pig carcass. The samples were coded and randomly allocated under a factorial scheme 2 (with and without antioxidant extract) x 3 (ultrasonic bath times 0, 5, and 10 minutes); each treatment had four replicates. The final extract volume was adjusted with distilled water, ensuring 200 mg of gallic acid equivalents per kilo of meat. Then, the samples were placed in the ultrasonic bath at a fixed frequency of 170 W, 35 kHz. During the ultrasound application, the bath temperature was maintained at 10 °C with ice/ice water addition when necessary. The acerola´s extract showed a significant effect (P < 0.05) on the meat Cohesiveness and to a lesser extent before rupture. With the modification of the microstructure in the meat, there was a decrease in elasticity. The application of ultrasound to meat (170 W, 35 kHz) in times (5 and 10 minutes) combined with the marinating in a natural antioxidant acerolas residue extract improves the meat's quality characteristics, decreasing the hardness and chewiness.

Resumo Os manguezais se configuram em um dos ecossistemas mais produtivos do planeta, entretanto eles vêm sofrendo progressivas alterações ambientais, devido às pressões antrópicas. Informações sobre o comportamento fenológico podem ser utilizadas como instrumento na construção de projetos de conservação de recursos naturais. O presente estudo foi realizado em quatro áreas estuarinas em Acaraú, Ceará, objetivando analisar o comportamento fenológico dos componentes reprodutivos de três espécies de mangue em diferentes áreas sujeitas a diferentes tipos de impactos ambientais (resíduos sólidos, desmatamento e efluentes da carcinicultura) e uma área de baixo impacto no período de um ano. A fim de se caracterizar os padrões fenológicos foi realizada observação direta, registrando-se a presença e a intensidade da floração e frutificação. Dois métodos de análise foram aplicados para entender os padrões de floração e frutificação: percentual de intensidade de Fournier e o índice de atividade. As florações de Avicennia spp. e Rhizophora mangle L, em condições naturais, ocorrem o ano todo, e nas áreas impactadas mostraram padrões irregulares. Quanto à frutificação, Laguncularia racemosa (L.) C. F. Gaertn foi a espécie que apresentou os mais altos percentuais para os dois índices fenológicos analisados. A pluviosidade e a salinidade parecem exercer maior força seletiva quando as espécies estão sujeitas a algum tipo de impacto antrópico. A análise comparativa dos diferentes métodos de avaliação fenológicos realizados neste estudo indicou que estes fornecem dados distintos e complementares sobre o comportamento reprodutivo vegetal e de como os impactos a que estes ambientes estão sujeitos pode estar interferindo negativamente sobre a flora deste ecossistema.

Abstract Mangroves are one of the most productive ecosystems on the planet however they have undergone progressive environmental changes due to anthropic pressures. Information on phenological behavior can be used as an instrument in the construction of conservation projects of natural resources. The present study was carried out in four estuarine areas in Acaraú, Ceará, Brazil, with the aim of analyzing of phenological behavior regarding reproductive components of three mangrove species in different areas subject to different environmental impacts (solid waste, deforestation and shrimp farm effluent) and a low impacted area, during a period of one year. patterns of flowering and fruiting: Fournier Index (percentage of intensity) and the index of activity. The flowering of Avicennia spp. and Rhizophora mangle, under natural conditions, occurred all year round, and it showed irregular patterns. Regarding fruiting, Laguncularia racemosa was the species that presented the highest values for the two phenological indices analyzed. Rainfall and salinity seemed to exert a more selective force when species were subjected to an anthropic impact. The comparative analysis of the different phenological evaluation methods carried out in this study indicated that they provide different and complementary data about the reproductive behavior of the plant and how the impacts to which these environments are subjected may be negatively interfering with the flora of this ecosystem.

Abstract This paper presents a general methodology based on the description of the inductive channel as virtual magnetic transmission-lines (VMGTLs). In comparison with other existing methods, VMGTL approach presents a better physical insight of the channel behavior since the model correctly preserves the energy flow between the transmitting and receiving coils. Besides that, it facilitates the integration into the analysis of highly nonlinear and dispersive structures such as metamaterial (MTM) lenses. Particularly, the virtual-TL analogy clarifies that the enhancement of the transmission gain between any two coils assisted by MTM is not due to an enhanced coupling between the drivers, as usually claimed, but to the emergence of propagating near-field modes supported by the MTM. This approach, by means of a parametric study, also indicates, for the first time, that MTMs could be employed not only for the increasing of power but also of data transfer due to the emergence of a sub-resonant region of minimum distortion. Nonetheless, since both effects are mutually exclusive, no passive MTM structure could simultaneously improve power and data transmission.

Resumo: A síndrome do intestino curto (SIC) é caracterizada por um estado de malabsorção de macro e micronutrientes que habitualmente se desenvolve após resseção de intestino delgado. Parece faltar uma correlação entre a quantidade de intestino ressecado e os sintomas desenvolvidos com a adaptação da estrutura e função intestinal. Reportamos o caso de um homem de 59 anos, submetido a resseção de 100 cm de intestino delgado tendo posteriormente desenvolvido síndrome de má absorção. Dos 95 dias de internamento hospitalar, várias complicações associadas à SIC ocorreram e de difícil gestão. Apesar de ser expectável um mau prognóstico, o doente apresentou melhoria significativa do estado nutricional após nutrição entérica e parentérica. À data de alta, apresentava um ganho ponderal de 9 kg. A SIC é uma patologia pouco reportada na literatura dado tratar-se de uma entidade complexa. Pretendemos com este caso reportar todo o processo de recuperação do doente e rever a fisiopatologia desta entidade.

Abstract: Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is characterized by a state of macro and micronutrient malabsorption which usually develops after small bowel resection. There is a weakly correlation between the amount of resected intestine and the clinical symptoms with the adaptation of bowel structure and function. We report a case of a 59-year-old man, who underwent a 100 cm small bowel resection developing malabsorption syndrome afterwards. Throughout the 95 days spent in hospital many complications of SBS with complex management arose. Although the patient was expected to have a poor prognosis, his nutritional status improved significantly through continuous parenteral and enteral nutrition. At discharge he had recovered carrying a 9 kg weight gain. SBS is a non-common disease reported in the literature as being a complex entity. The aim of this case is to report the process of the patient´s recovery and to provide a review of the physiopathology of this entity.

RESUMO Foram realizados dois ensaios experimentais para avaliar a inclusão de biofermentado a base de plantas do semiárido na dieta de leitões na fase inicial. No ensaio I foi avaliado o valor nutricional e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes e os valores de energia digestível e metabolizável do biofermentado. Para tanto, foram utilizados oito leitões com peso médio inicial de 15,2 ± 2,7 kg, alojados em gaiolas de metabolismo, utilizou-se o método de coleta total de fezes e urina. O biofermentado apresentou 80,40% e 68,18% como coeficientes de digestibilidade para a matéria seca e fibra bruta, respectivamente; 10,08% de proteína bruta e 2.865 kcal/kg de energia metabolizável. No segundo ensaio foi avaliada a inclusão de 0; 3; 6 e 9% de biofermentado sobre o desempenho, incidência de diarreia, componentes plasmáticos, peso e comprimento de órgãos digestivos de leitões na fase inicial. Para tanto, foram utilizados 40 leitões com peso médio inicial de 12,6±3,5 kg, distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados com quatro tratamentos, cinco repetições e dois animais por unidade experimental. A inclusão dos diferentes níveis de biofermentado não afetou (P>0,05) o desempenho, o peso e comprimento dos órgãos digestivos e parâmetros séricos. No entanto, a inclusão do biofermentado reduziu (P<0,01) a incidência de diarreia. Conclui-se que o biofermentado a base de plantas adaptadas ao semiárido apresenta potencial de ser utilizado em dietas para suínos na fase inicial.

ABSTRACT Two experimental tests were carried out to evaluate the inclusion of a biofermented semi-arid plant mix in diets of piglets in the initial weaning phase. In the first trial, the nutritional value and digestibility of nutrients and the digestible and metabolizable energy values of the bio-fermented plants mix were evaluated. To do so, eight piglets with an initial average weight of 15.2 ± 2.7 kg were used, housed in metabolic cages, and using the total collection of feces and urine. The bio-fermented plant mix diet presented 80.40% and 68.18% as digestibility coefficients for dry matter and crude fiber, respectively; 10.08% crude protein and 2,865 kcal/kg of metabolizable energy. In the second trial, the inclusion of 0, 3, 6 and 9% of bio-fermented plant mix was evaluated on performance, diarrhea incidence, plasma components, weight, and length of digestive organs of piglets in the initial weaning phase. To do so, 40 piglets with an initial average weight of 12.6 ± 3.5 kg were used, distributed in a randomized block design with four treatments, five replicates, and two animals per experimental unit. The inclusion of different levels of bio-fermented plant mix did not affect (P>0.05) the performance, weight, and length of digestive organs or serum parameters. However, the inclusion of bio-fermented plant reduced (P<0.01) the diarrhea incidence. It is concluded that bio-fermented plants adapted to the semi-arid region has the potential to be used in diets for pigs in the initial weaning phase.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Some COVID-19 patients have higher mortality and the responsible factors for this unfavorable outcome is still not well understood. Objective: To study the association between ferritin levels at admission, representing an inflammatory state, and hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients. Methods: From May through July 2020, SARS-CoV-2 positive patients with moderate to severe clinical symptoms were evaluated at admission, regarding clinical and laboratory data on renal and hepatic function, hematologic parameters, cytomegalovirus co-infection, and acute phase proteins. Results: A total of 97 patients were included; mean age = 59.9 ± 16.3 years, 58.8% male, 57.7% non-white, in-hospital mortality = 45.4%. Age, ferritin, C-reactive protein, serum albumin and creatinine were significantly associated with mortality. Ferritin showed area under the curve (AUC) of 0.79 (p < 0.001) for the cut-off of 1873.0 ng/mL, sensitivity of 68.4% and specificity of 79.3% in predicting in-hospital mortality. Age ≥60 years had an odds ratio (OR) of 10.5 (95% CI = 1.8–59.5; p = 0.008) and ferritin ≥1873.0 ng/mL had an OR of 6.0 (95% CI = 1.4–26.2; p = 0.016), both independently associated with mortality based on logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: The magnitude of inflammation present at admission of COVID-19 patients, represented by high ferritin levels, is independently predictive of in-hospital mortality.