ABSTRACT: Leptospirosis, a disease of significant economic impact on livestock and public health concern, may exhibit unique epidemiological characteristics in indigenous villages, particularly those located within semiarid climates such as the Caatinga biome in Brazil. This environment often presents conditions unfavorable for leptospire survival. This study conducted serological diagnoses of livestock in indigenous villages within the Caatinga biome, Northeastern Brazil. The survey was carried out in the Mãe Maria and Santa Helena indigenous villages, home to the Xukuru de Cimbres tribe, in the county of Pesqueira, Pernambuco State, Brazil, within the Caatinga biome. Blood samples were collected from cattle (n = 42), goats (n = 41), and sheep (n = 19). Out of the 102 samples tested, 73 (71.6%; 95% CI = 62.8% - 80.3%) were seroreactive (cut-off ≥ 100). The seropositivity rates for cattle, goats, and sheep were 54.8%, 80.5%, and 89.5%, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed in the proportion of seropositive animals between cattle and goats and cattle and sheep (P < 0.05). Icterohaemorrhagiae was identified as the most probable serogroup across all animal species. The study revealed that livestock in indigenous villages within the Caatinga biome are frequently exposed to leptospires. This finding underscores the importance of a One Health approach, emphasizing the need for comprehensive studies in areas where large human and animal populations coexist. Such studies are crucial for investigating zoonotic infections and for planning and implementing control measures against livestock-associated leptospirosis.

RESUMO: A leptospirose causa perdas econômicas na pecuária e é um problema de saúde pública, sendo possível que existam peculiaridades na epidemiologia dessa doença em aldeias indígenas, principalmente naquelas de áreas de clima semiárido, como o bioma Caatinga no Nordeste do Brasil, onde o ambiente é frequentemente adverso à sobrevivência de leptospiras. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi realizar o diagnóstico sorológico em rebanhos de aldeias indígenas no bioma Caatinga. A pesquisa foi realizada nas aldeias indígenas Mãe Maria e Santa Helena, tribo Xukuru de Cimbres, município de Pesqueira, estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, dentro do bioma Caatinga. Amostras de sangue foram colhidas de bovinos (n = 42), caprinos (n = 41) e ovinos (n = 19). No geral, das 102 amostras testadas 73 (71,6%; IC 95% = 62,8% - 80,3%) foram sororreativas (ponto de corte ≥ 100). Para bovinos, caprinos e ovinos as taxas de soropositividade foram de 54,8%, 80,5% e 89,5%, respectivamente. Houve diferença estatística na proporção de animais soropositivos entre bovinos e caprinos e bovinos e ovinos (P < 0,05). Icterohaemorrhagiae foi o sorogrupo mais provável em todas as espécies animais. O estudo mostra que animais de produção de aldeias indígenas são comumente expostos a leptospiras no bioma Caatinga, o que constitui uma preocupação do ponto de vista de Saúde Única e demonstra a importância de estudos amplos em que coexistem grandes números de humanos e animais na investigação de infecções zoonóticas e no planejamento e implementação de medidas de controle da leptospirose associada a animais de produção.

Abstract This study aimed to assess the influence of the file format on the image quality parameters (image noise, brightness, and uniformity) of periapical radiographs acquired with different digital systems. Radiographic images of an acrylic phantom were acquired with two digital systems - Digora Toto and Express, and exported into five different file formats - TIFF, BMP, DICOM, PNG, and JPEG. Image noise, image brightness (mean of gray values), and image uniformity (standard deviation of gray values) were evaluated in all images. A two-way analysis of variance with Tukey’s test as a post-hoc test was used to compare the results, considering the file formats and radiographic systems as the studied factors. A significance level of 5% was adopted for all analyses. The DICOM image file format presented lower image noise, higher brightness (higher mean gray values), and greater image uniformity (p<0.001) than the other file formats, which did not differ from each other for both digital radiography systems (p>0.05). The Express system revealed lower image noise and greater image uniformity than the Digora Toto system regardless of the image file format (p<0.001). Moreover, the Express showed higher brightness than the Digora Toto for all image file formats (p<0.001), except for the DICOM image file format, which did not significantly differ between the digital radiography systems tested (p>0.05). The DICOM image file format showed lower image noise, higher brightness, and greater image uniformity than the other file formats (TIFF, BMP, PNG, and JPEG) in both digital radiography systems tested.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a influência do formato do arquivo nos parâmetros de qualidade de imagem (ruído de imagem, brilho e uniformidade) de radiografias periapicais adquiridas com diferentes sistemas digitais. As imagens radiográficas de um fantoma de acrílico foram adquiridas com dois sistemas digitais - Digora Toto e Express, e exportadas em cinco formatos de arquivo diferentes - TIFF, BMP, DICOM, PNG e JPEG. O ruído da imagem, o brilho da imagem (média dos valores de cinza) e a uniformidade da imagem (desvio padrão dos valores de cinza) foram avaliados em todas as imagens. A análise de variância (ANOVA) bidirecional com o teste post-hoc de Tukey foi aplicada para comparar os resultados, considerando os formatos de arquivo e os sistemas radiográficos como os fatores estudados. Um nível de significância de 5% foi adotado para todas as análises. O formato de arquivo de imagem DICOM apresentou menor ruído de imagem, maior brilho (maiores valores médios de cinza) e maior uniformidade de imagem (p<0,001) do que os outros formatos de arquivo, que não diferiram entre si para ambos os sistemas de radiografia digital (p>0,05). O sistema Express apresentou menor ruído de imagem e maior uniformidade de imagem que o sistema Digora Toto, independentemente do formato do arquivo de imagem (p<0,001). Além disso, o Express mostrou maior brilho do que o Digora Toto para todos os formatos de arquivo de imagem (p<0,001), exceto para o formato de arquivo de imagem DICOM, que não diferiu significativamente entre os sistemas de radiografia digital testados (p>0,05). O formato de arquivo de imagem DICOM mostrou menor ruído de imagem, maior brilho e maior uniformidade de imagem do que os outros formatos de arquivo (TIFF, BMP, PNG e JPEG) em ambos os sistemas de radiografia digital testados.

Eugenia punicifolia (Kunth) DC, known as “pedra ume-caá” or “pitanguinha do cerrado”, is popularly used to treat infectious diseases like inflammation, and diabetes. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and validate an analytical method by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) for the seasonal quantification of gallic acid (GA) and ellagic acid (EA), and to co-validate the method for quantification from the ethanol extract and fractions of the E. punicifolia leaves. Chromatographic separations were performed with a mobile phase gradient of acetonitrile/methanol/water acidified with 0.2% formic acid, a flow of 0.8 mL min 1, detection at 254 nm, and a C18 column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm). Method validation parameters were determined following Brazilian legislation. The HPLC-DAD analytical method developed for the quantification of GA and EA was validated and demonstrated to be selective, linear, precise, accurate, robust, and without matrix effect. Accordingly, it is helpful for the analysis of these tannins in crude ethanol extracts and fractions from E. punicifoila leaves. Thus, our results may be of great help for quality control assessment and standardization of raw materials containing Eugenia punicifolia.

Abstract This article presents a theoretical and numerical study of bolted sleeve connections with rectangular hollow sections (RHS) under axial tension and compression. The geometric form of a hollow section provides resistance for high axial loads, torsion and combines effects, spreading its utilization in truss systems. In this context, the sleeve connections proposed explore these characteristics of RHS and offer an attractive aesthetic appearance for the continuity of elements. The bolted sleeve connection with RHS is formed by two outer tubes connected by an inner tube and staggered bolts. Herein, a parametric study was developed for identification of the failure modes in the connection. Finite element models with different geometric parameters and number of bolts were created in commercial software. The width, depth and thickness of RHS tubes and diameter of bolts were variated. In the theoretical/numerical/parametric results, the yielding gross section failure, the fracture through the effective net area failure and the bearing failure were observed. These failure modes occurred in both outer and inner tubes. The load results were compared to determine the resistance capacity of sleeve connections. The theoretical formulations were evaluated for representation of the ultimate load of the failure modes. (RHS compression loads effects systems context elements Herein software width variated theoreticalnumericalparametric observed

Abstract The Very High Gravity (VHG) fermentation is a technology that can lead to a reduction in waste generation, a reduction in energy consumption and GHG emissions and several technical, economic, and environmental advantages. Having, as a limiting factor, yeast tolerance to the most diverse stressors in the fermentation medium. To overcome this limitation, the aim of the work was to verify the potential protective effect of silica (+A) on Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Ethanol Red®) submitted to VHG fermentation. Initially, an adaptive test to VHG fermentation was carried out, with 5 cell recycles in musts from sugar cane syrup. Each recycle was subjected to the treatments, in quadruplicate: T1C (control) - Wort without silica supplementation; T2S100- Wort with supplementation of 100 mg L-1 of silica and T3S300- Wort with supplementation of 300 mg L -1 of silica. As a result, the T3S300 treatment in the adaptive test, showed viability of 77.5 to 81.55%; biomass production from 8.1 to 10.0 g L-1; yield from 90.0 to 95.3% and productivity from 7.3 to 10.9 mL L-1h-1. In conclusion, the treatment of the wort with silica (+A) (100 and 300 mg L-1) has an effect protector on yeast and may present positive responses in VHG fermentations.

Abstract Hydrocotyle umbellata L., Araliaceae, is a species that is recommended in Ayurvedic medicine for its effects on the central nervous system, such as anxiolytic and memory-stimulant effects. Despite the medicinal potential of this species, its phytopharmaceutical and technological potential to produce standardized extracts has not been investigated. This study analyzes the influence of spray drying parameters on the contents of the chemical markers (total phenolic, total flavonoid, and hibalactone) and the functional properties of H. umbellata extract. The optimization of drying conditions was performed using a central composite design combined with response surface methodology and desirability function approach. The mathematical models fitted to experimental data indicated that all the evaluated drying parameters significantly influenced the chemical contents. The optimal conditions were: inlet temperature of 120 °C, feed flow rate of 4 mL min-1, and colloidal silicon dioxide:maltodextrin ratio of 16%:4%. Under these conditions, the powder samples had spherical particles and desirable physicochemical and functional properties, such as low water activity and moisture content, good product recovery, reconstitution, and flowability. Thus, spray drying might be a promising technique for processing standardized H. umbellata extracts.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the clinical profile, pain improvement, and the need for surgical interventions in patients undergoing transforaminal block with the use of corticosteroids and anesthetics. Methods: This is a prospective, randomized, double-blind study with 45 patients with unilateral radicular pain in their lower limbs and a single-segment lumbar disc herniation diagnosis. In the intervention group, transforaminal blocks with bupivacaine, dexamethasone, and clonidine were applied and in the control group, distilled water and bupivacaine. The Oswestry questionnaire was applied. Results: We included 24 female (53.4%) and 21 male patients (46.6%). Of those with an occupation, 85.71% (n = 30) were relieved from their duties due to their illness and 14.29% (n = 5) continued to work with limitations. Those who underwent transforaminal block with an injection of corticosteroids, clonidine, and anesthetics showed immediate relief. However, such effect failed to alleviate patients’ symptoms after three weeks. We observed that 52% of patients showed varying degrees of improvement. The control group experienced mild pain relief after one week, which also failed to last after three weeks. Moreover, 50% of patients improved in varying degrees. Conclusion: Further studies with larger samples, new epidemiological data, and longer follow-ups are necessary to validate our hypotheses. Level of Evidence II, Prospective Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil clínico, a melhora da dor e a necessidade de intervenções cirúrgicas em pacientes submetidos ao bloqueio transforaminal com uso de corticosteroides e anestésicos. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo, randomizado e duplo-cego realizado com 45 pacientes com dor radicular unilateral em membros inferiores e diagnóstico de hérnia discal lombar em um único segmento. No grupo intervenção, os bloqueios transforaminais foram feitos com bupivacaína, dexametasona e clonidina; no controle, água destilada e bupivacaína. Foi aplicado questionário de Oswestry. Resultados: A amostra foi composta de 24 mulheres (53,4%) e 21 homens (46,6%). Dos pacientes com ocupação, 85,71% (n = 30) estavam afastados de suas funções devido à doença e 14,29% (n = 5) continuavam a trabalhar com limitações. Os que foram submetidos ao bloqueio transforaminal com injeção de corticoide, clonidina e anestésico apresentaram alívio imediato. Após três semanas, contudo, o efeito não perdurou de forma tão satisfatória, e 52% dos pacientes apresentaram melhora em graus variados. No grupo controle, houve discreto alívio álgico após uma semana, que não perdurou de forma satisfatória após três semanas, com 50% dos pacientes evoluindo para melhora em graus variados. Conclusão: Mais estudos com espaço amostral maior, novos dados epidemiológicos e seguimento mais prolongado são necessários para validar as hipóteses aventadas. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Prospectivo.

Resumo Os materiais de mudança de fase - phase change materials (PCMs) possuem alta capacidade de armazenamento de energia na forma de calor latente e potencial para proporcionar conforto térmico aos usuários e economia de energia em edificações. Entretanto, muitos parâmetros devem ser analisados para sua escolha e utilização adequada. O objetivo deste artigo é discutir as potencialidades do uso de PCMs em sistemas construtivos a partir de uma revisão integrativa de literatura em repositórios nacionais e internacionais, identificando as classificações, critérios de seleção, incorporação, aplicação, tendências e lacunas das pesquisas. Foram encontradas 134 publicações, dentre as quais 103 representam o estado da arte nos últimos cinco anos. De maneira geral, as pesquisas encontradas demonstram que a utilização de PCMs em sistemas construtivos apresenta potencial para aumento das horas de conforto e redução do consumo de energia. As condições climáticas configuraram o parâmetro mais importante para a escolha adequada de PCMs, evidenciando a importância de pesquisas em regiões tropicais com clima quente e úmido, principalmente em baixas latitudes, como grande parte do Brasil. Também foi observado o enfoque crescente em pesquisas que utilizam simulações e otimizações multiobjetivo para avaliação simultânea dos diversos parâmetros envolvidos na associação de PCMs a sistemas construtivos.

Abstract Phase Change Materials (PCMs) have a high latent heat storage capacity and the potential to provide thermal comfort to users and energy savings in buildings. However, many parameters must be analysed for the adequate selection and application of these materials. This article discusses the potential of applying PCMs in construction systems based on an Integrative Literature Review of national and international publications, identifying the classification, selection, incorporation and application criteria, trends, and research gaps. The review covers 134 articles, 103 of which are state-of-the-art from the past five years. Most of the research studies examined demonstrate that using PCMs in constructive systems leads to increased comfort hours and lower energy consumption. Climate conditions proved to be the most crucial parameter for an adequate choice of PCMs, highlighting a gap in the research on tropical regions with hot and humid climates and low latitudes, such as a large portion of Brazil. This study also detected a significant growth in research using multi-objective simulations and optimisation to simultaneously evaluate the parameters involved in the association of PCMs and building systems.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate whether a single measurement of vascular endothelial growth factor could distinguish between intrauterine pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy and to correlate the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor with serum levels of progesterone andβ-human chorionic gonadotropin in each subgroup. METHODS: Ninety patients with a positive human chorionic gonadotropin test and either abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding were selected; pregnancies were singletons, spontaneously conceived, 42–56 days of gestational age. All patients had a transvaginal ultrasound examination and were divided into three subgroups: abnormal intrauterine pregnancy, tubal pregnancy, and normal intrauterine pregnancy. Tubal pregnancies were surgically treated and histologically confirmed. Blood samples were collected for the determination of β-human chorionic gonadotropin, progesterone, and vascular endothelial growth factor and their concentrations were compared in each subgroup. Receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated by comparing the subgroup of tubal pregnancy to the other groups. A Fisher discriminant function analysis was performed. The level of significance was 5%. RESULTS: One-way analysis of variance revealed a significant correlation between the different subgroups and β-human chorionic gonadotropin, progesterone, and vascular endothelial growth factor serum levels (p<0.001). Vascular endothelial growth factor concentration was significantly higher for patients with tubal pregnancy than for other subgroups (p<0.05). β-Human chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone levels were higher in the subgroup with normal intrauterine pregnancies compared with the subgroups with tubal and abnormal intrauterine pregnancies (p<0.05). Serum vascular endothelial growth factor level >188.7 ng/mL predicted tubal pregnancy with 96.7% sensitivity, 95.0% specificity, 90.6% positive predictive value, and 98.3% negative predictive value. CONCLUSIONS: Serum vascular endothelial growth factor could be a marker in discriminating intrauterine pregnancy from tubal pregnancy; its levels are increased in women with ectopic pregnancy compared with women with normal and abnormal intrauterine pregnancies.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo describir los aspectos imaginológicos de una concha bullosa hallada incidentalmente por medio de imágenes de tomografía computarizada de haz cónico (TCHC). Una paciente de sexo femenino fue sometida a examen de TCHC y se verificó una neumatización extensa bilateral de la concha media, presentando una mayor dimensión del lado derecho, asi como desvío del tabique. El paciente refirió obstrucción nasal y pérdida del olfato. La TCHC de la región maxilofacial permitió localizar este hallazgo incidental, permitiendo derivar al paciente para el tratamiento adecuado.

Abstract This study aimed to describe the imaging aspects of a concha bullosa discovered incidentally by means of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. A female patient underwent a CBCT exam, and a bilateral extensive pneumatization of the middle concha was verified, presenting a larger dimension of the right side and a deviated septum. The patient reported nasal obstruction and loss of smell. The CBCT for covering the maxillofacial region allowed the discovery of this incidental finding, allowing the patient to be referred for appropriate treatment.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to emphasize the importance of legal and bioethical knowledge in maintaining medical confidentiality, especially in situations when there is a diagnosis of HIV infection. METHODS: A literature review of studies published in the Scientific Electronic Library Online and National Library of Medicine databases was performed. Sixteen studies available in full, online, and free, published between 2010 and 2020, were selected. RESULTS: The studies highlighted that, despite the ethical duty to breach confidentiality for the protection of third parties, many doctors are reluctant to reveal this secret due to the power of stigmatization and social discrimination related to the diagnosis of HIV infection, which affects integrity, counseling, and capability to treat patients. CONCLUSION: HIV diagnosis implies bioethical and legal questions. Respect for medical confidentiality is a matter to be discussed, as there is a need to protect the privacy of the patient, at the same time the responsibility to preserve the health of others.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to measure the intra- and inter-rater reliability of the quantitative sensory testing for measuring the thermal pain threshold on myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle of individuals with chronic neck pain. METHODS: Thirty female participants were included, aged between 18 and 45 years and with bilateral myofascial trigger points, active and centrally located in the upper trapezius muscle. Two measurements with quantitative sensory testing were performed by each examiner at an interval of 1 week between them. RESULTS: We observed substantial reliability for the intra-rater analysis (intraclass correlation coefficient ranging between 0.876 and 0.896) and excellent reliability for the inter-rater analysis (intraclass correlation coefficient ranging between 0.917 and 0.954). CONCLUSION: The measurement of the thermal pain threshold on myofascial trigger points in individuals with chronic neck pain has acceptable reliability values, supporting the use of the quantitative sensory testing in the research setting and the clinical environment.