Search Results (118)

The gray triggerfish Balistes capriscus has a wide geographical distribution and is used for commercial and recreational fishing worldwide. In this study, we aimed to provide technical knowledge for developing strategies for the sustainable production of gray triggerfish in aquaculture systems by characterizing the capture procedures for broodstock acquisition and developing a protocol for species maintenance in captivity. Broodstock maintenance data were collected over six months (April to September) each year, whereas breeder data were collected over three months each year (November to January). The number of shipments, capture, and survival of B. capriscus was 100%. The animals grew on average by 9.99 ± 0.11 cm over 9 months and increased their average weight by 1.658 ± 0.1 kg, representing a specific growth rate of 0.62% and an average daily weight gain of 6.14 g/day. The species were fed by alternating the supply of fresh food (minced fish, fish fillets, shrimp, squid, minced octopus and crab), divided into two times, 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and offered until the animals were satiated. Regarding the structures used to maintain the breeding stock, 15,000 L tanks are recommended to keep up to 30 breeding individuals. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the dynamics of total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and some indicators of environmental sustainability of Nile tilapia reared in a biofloc technology (BFT) system. Nile tilapia fingerlings were cultured in three BFT units of production (4.2 m³ each) at a stocking density of 395 fish/m³. After 70 days, the survival rate was 98.05%, with a final average weight of 20.43 g, and apparent feed conversion of 1.05. Nutrient inputs were from supply water, initial fish biomass, and feed; outputs were measured from the final fish biomass and effluent. TC, TN, and TP concentrations in the water increased linearly over time (p < 0.001) by 1.54, 1.66, and 0.44 mg/L, respectively. Feed contributed over 88% of nutrient inputs, while fish final biomass accounted for over 50% of output. Nutrient retention in fish final biomass was 29.74% (TC), 45.38% (TN), and 46.34% (TP). The system had low eutrophication potential, estimated at 57.39 kg TC, 20.02 kg TN, and 5.70 kg TP per ton of fish. Water use was minimal (0.0074 m³/ton), but energy demand was high (114.59 MJ/kg). The closed system reduces biodiversity risks by preventing fish escape. In conclusion, BFT supports high fish productivity with efficient nutrient use, minimal water use, and limited environmental impact, contributing to environmentally sustainable aquaculture. Full article

To meet the growing demand for sustainable aquaculture, the biofloc technology (BFT) system has emerged as a promising solution, offering high productivity, improved water use efficiency, and enhanced environmental and biosecurity performance. Economic and risk analyses are essential tools for identifying the key technical and economic factors that determine the profitability and long-term sustainability of aquaculture systems. This study aimed to evaluate the economic feasibility and the risk associated with Nile tilapia juvenile production in a BFT system. Economic viability indicators were calculated using real data on capital investment, operational costs, and zootechnical performance from a production cycle. Scenario analyses were conducted to assess the effects of fluctuations in input prices and survival rates on overall economic outcomes. Stochastic simulations were also conducted to determine the probabilities of economic results. The items with the greatest impact on costs were the acquisition of the greenhouse and fingerlings, representing 27.64% of the initial investment and 33.24% of the operating cost, respectively. The BFT system showed a positive net margin and profitability per production cycle, with the exception of the pessimistic scenario. The risk analysis demonstrated that in 87.29% of the simulations resulted in a positive profit. Thus, the production of tilapia juveniles in a BFT system is an economically viable investment. However, its success is contingent upon specific technical and market conditions, underscoring the need for careful management and context-specific planning. Full article

Tick-borne piroplasmids are apicomplexan protozoa that infect a wide range of vertebrate hosts, with significant implications for animal and human health. This study investigated the occurrence and genetic diversity of piroplasmids in wild mammals, unconventional pets, and associated ticks in Goiás state, midwestern Brazil. Between April 2023 and January 2024, 105 blood samples, 22 tissue samples, and 300 ticks were collected from 21 mammalian species housed in wildlife screening centers, zoos, and veterinary clinics. Molecular screening targeting the 18S rRNA gene of piroplasmids detected a 25.7% (27/105) overall positivity, with gray brockets (Subulo gouazoubira) and South American tapirs (Tapirus terrestris) showing the highest infection rates. Three tick samples tested positive, including two Amblyomma sculptum nymphs and a male of Amblyomma dubitatum collected from a tapir and capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). Cytauxzoon brasiliensis was reported, for the first time, in cougars (Puma concolor) from Goiás state, midwestern Brazil, indicating the role of this feline as a host of this parasite. Babesia goianiaensis was confirmed in a capybara, and Theileria terrestris in tapirs. Phylogenetic analyses clustered gray brockets-associated Theileria sequences with Theileria sp. previously detected in Neotropical deer from Brazil and Theileria cervi. While the phylogenetic analysis of amino acid sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit III separated Theileria genotypes detected in S. gouazoubira from T. cervi, hsp70-based phylogenetic inferences clustered the genotypes detected in Tapirus terrestris with Theileria terrestris, suggesting host-specific evolutionary lineages. These findings contribute to the understanding of Piroplasmida diversity and circulation in South American wild mammals, emphasizing the need for enhanced molecular surveillance to elucidate transmission dynamics, assess potential health risks, and contribute to the establishment of wildlife conservation and One Health strategies. Full article

The dairy sector plays a fundamental role in the economic development of numerous regions by creating jobs and sustaining the livelihoods of millions of people. However, concerns related to animal welfare and environmental sustainability—particularly greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—persist in intensive dairy systems. This study aimed to measure and assess the presence of GHGs, such as methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), in a compost barn facility, using spatial variability tools to analyze the distribution of these gasses at different heights (0.25 m and 1.5 m) relative to the animals’ bedding. Data were collected over five consecutive days using a prototype equipped with low-cost sensors. Geostatistical analysis was performed using R, and spatial distribution maps were generated with Surfer 13^®. Results showed elevated CH₄ concentrations at 0.25 m, exceeding values typically reported for similar systems values (60–117 ppm), while CO₂ concentrations remained within the expected range (970–1480 ppm), suggesting low risk to animals, workers, and the environment. The findings highlight the importance of continuous environmental monitoring to promote sustainability and productivity in confined dairy operations. Full article

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a growing health challenge with increasing prevalence. Early diagnosis and effective interventions are crucial to the management of KOA individuals. Vibration therapy has shown promise as an intervention for KOA. Systemic vibratory therapy (SVT) and local vibratory therapy (LVT) have gained interest in recent years. In these therapies, mechanical vibrations are transmitted to the body either systemically or locally. The current systematic review aims to comprehensively summarize SVT and LVT effects on the functional capacity of KOA individuals. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PEDro, and EMBASE on 3 July 2024, including only randomized controlled trials, were performed. The data collected were participant characteristics, vibrating devices, intervention duration, and main findings. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with Cochrane tools, and methodological quality (MQ) was assessed via the Physiotherapy Evidence Database. Nine papers were selected from 922 articles: five on SVT and four on LVT, involving 352 individuals aged 40–80. SVT studies reported acute or chronic responses like increased muscle strength and improved functional capacity. LVT studies also indicated functional capacity improvements. RoB was classified as ‘high’ in three SVT studies and ‘low’ in two LVT studies. MQ was classified as ‘high’ in five SVT studies and one LVT study. Both SVT and LVT studies reported improvements in muscle strength, range of motion, and functional capacity. The current review revealed beneficial effects of both therapies on the functional capacity of KOA individuals. However, further well-designed studies are needed to reach definitive conclusions about the effect of SVT and LVT for KOA individuals. Full article

It is important to understand which bacterial taxa are most abundant during SARS-CoV-2 infection and to promote mitigation strategies for conditions subsequent to infection. Nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and their family contacts (uninfected and asymptomatic) during the outbreak of the P.1 variant of SARS-CoV-2 in Parintins, Amazonas–Brazil, in March 2021. The samples were investigated by a shotgun sequencing metagenomic approach using the NextSeq 500 Illumina® system. The samples were stratified according to the presence or absence of SARS-CoV-2, household group, sex, and age. Of the total of 63 individuals, 37 (58.73%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2 and 26 (41.27%) were negative for SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses (FLU, AdV, HBoV, HCoV, HMPV, RSV, PIV, HRV). The alpha diversity indexes Chao1, species observed, Simpson, and Inv Simpson demonstrated a significant difference (p < 0.05) in both the diversity of observed species and the abundance of some taxa between positive and negative individuals. We also observed an abundance of opportunists such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus spp, and Shigella sonnei, previously associated with the severity of COVID-19. Our results suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection causes changes in the microenvironment of the nasopharyngeal region, allowing greater proliferation of opportunistic bacteria and decreased abundance of commensal bacteria. Full article

This article explores the foundational principles of ionizing radiation and provides a comprehensive overview of its impact on thermoplastic polymers. Ionizing radiation, encompassing gamma rays, X-rays, and electron beams, has been extensively studied due to its capacity to alter the molecular structure of polymers. These changes enable advancements in various applications by promoting molecular crosslinking, controlled degradation, molecular grafting, and crystallinity adjustments. The article delves into the fundamental mechanisms of radiation thermoplastic polymer interactions, including ionization, electronic excitation, and free radical formation. It highlights how these processes lead to structural transformations that enhance the physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of thermoplastic polymers. Factors such as radiation type, absorbed doses, temperature, and environmental conditions are discussed in the context of their role in controlling these modifications. Key practical applications are identified across fields such as medicine, food packaging, aerospace, and industry. Examples include the production of sterilizable medical devices, enhanced food packaging for longer shelf life, and radiation-resistant materials for the aerospace and nuclear sectors. Despite its many advantages, the article also emphasizes challenges such as process variability, polymer sensitivity to radiation, and standardization difficulties. The review underscores emerging research directions, including optimizing irradiation parameters and integrating advanced characterization techniques like Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The development of new polymer blends and composites, designed for irradiation-induced property enhancement, represents a promising area of innovation. Full article

Infections with Flavobacterium oreochromis pose risks to the production of Colossoma macropomum. Since no therapeutic treatment exists for this disease in this aquatic host, prophylaxis through vaccination is one method for disease control. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is widely used in aquaculture to assess animal immunity and, mainly, to validate vaccination protocols. The method based on the use of immunoglobulin Y (IgY) is an alternative to mammalian antibodies that should be considered due to its advantages over antibodies produced by small mammals. This study aimed to standardize an indirect ELISA (iELISA) protocol to validate the immunization of C. macropomum against F. oreochromis. For this, a hen and fish were immunized to obtain anti-C. macropomum and anti-F. oreochromis antibodies, respectively, which were used to standardize the test. Fish were inoculated with bacterin + adjuvant, bacterin alone, adjuvant alone, or phosphate-buffered saline, subjected to blood sampling, and monitored for up to 60 days. The iELISA was composed of the inactivated bacteria in the coating step, C. macropomum anti-Flavobacterium oreochromis as the primary antibody, and anti-C. macropomum IgY as the secondary antibody. The results demonstrate that the highest antibody titers were found in the organisms immunized with bacterin + adjuvant and bacterin. The iELISA enabled the detection of antibodies produced by C. macropomum, which were mediated by IgY specificity. Full article

This study investigates the mineralogy and chemical characteristics of pre-salt clay minerals, classifies them, and defines assemblages in reactive microsites. Using Electron Probe Micro-Analysis (EPMA), the chemical formulas of Mg-rich clays were determined. Stevensite exhibited low interlayer charge and aluminum content, while kerolite was characterized by a minimal charge. K/S (kerolite/stevensite) mixed layer showed intermediate compositions and charges between these endmembers. Saponite was distinguished by higher levels of Al, K, and Fe, along with a higher interlayer charge. The proposed assemblages are as follows: saponite in mudstone facies (without spherulites/shrubs), with a hybrid matrix; pure kerolite in spherulstone and shrubstone facies, marked by the absence of significant reactions and high preservation of matrix and textures; stevensite in facies with extensive matrix replacement by dolomitization/silicification; and K/S and kerolite in similar facies with intermediate matrix replacement levels and the coexistence of two intimately related clay mineral compositions. This study enables reliable differentiation of these species based on point mineral chemistry and mapping, combined with a microsite approach and conventional techniques. Additionally, it discusses the formation of pre-salt clays, influenced by significant kinetic and chemical interactions during their genesis and burial to depths of approximately 5 km. Full article

Loss of muscle mass and strength is a common condition associated with adverse outcomes in critically ill patients. Here, we determined the correlation between non-thyroidal illness (NTIS) and molecular alterations in the muscle of critically ill individuals. We evaluated deiodinase expression, intramuscular triiodothyronine (T3) levels, and mitochondria and sarcoplasmic reticulum components. The cellular colocalization of the enzymes and its influence on myocytes and genes regulated by T3 were shown, including those of mitochondria. A prospective cohort of 96 patients. Blood and muscular samples were collected on admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), as well as clinical data and ultrasonographic measurements. Patients with NTIS showed increased oxidative stress markers associated with critical illness in muscle biopsy, such as carbonyl content and low sulfhydryl and GSH. The distribution pattern of deiodinases in muscle and its biochemical properties showed significant pathophysiological linkage between NTIS and muscle loss, as type 3-deiodinase (D3) was highly expressed in stem cells, preventing their differentiation in mature myocytes. Despite the high type 2-deiodinase (D2) expression in muscle tissue in the acute phase of critical illness, T3 was unmeasurable in the samples. In this scenario, we also demonstrated impaired expression of glucose transporters GLUT4, IRS1, and 2, which are involved in muscle illness. Here, we provide evidence that altered thyroid hormone metabolism contributes to stem cell dysfunction and further explain the mechanisms underlying critical illness-induced myopathy. Full article

The liver serves as a major energetic reservoir for other tissues and its metabolic function is controlled by humoral and neural factors. The vagus nerve innervating the gastrointestinal tract plays an important role in regulating peripheral metabolism and energy expenditure. Although the liver receives vagus nerve fibers, the impact of this circuitry in the regulation of hepatic metabolism is still poorly understood. Herein, we used a combination of quantitative proteomics and in vivo imaging techniques to investigate the impact of the vagus nerve on liver metabolism in male mice. Liver-brain axis was impaired by vagotomy (VNX) or knocking down of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT-KD). Mice were challenged with high carbohydrate or high-fat feeding. The vagus nerve shapes the metabolic framework of the liver, as vagotomy led to a significant alteration of the hepatic proteome landscape. Differential protein expression and pathway enrichment analyses showed that glycolytic and fatty acid biosynthesis were increased following VNX, whereas β-oxidation was decreased. These results were corroborated in VAChT-KD mice. This metabolic shift facilitated lipid accumulation in hepatocytes in mice fed with a standard commercial diet. Furthermore, VNX worsened liver steatosis following high-carbohydrate or high-fat dietary challenges. This study describes the liver-brain axis mediated by the vagus nerve as an important regulator of the hepatic metabolic landscape. Full article

The climate of the south of Brazil is characterized by northern winds in a hegemonic way for the transfer of moisture. Thus, the goal here is to verify the impact of the meridional water vapor transport on the rainfall of the Mirim–São Gonçalo Watershed (MSGW), located in the extreme south of Brazil and essential for regional development. The study is based on the precipitation data from MSGW weather stations and ERA5 reanalysis data for the period 1981–2020, which allowed the analysis of the interactions between different climatological variables. The water vapor transport was analyzed using the vertically integrated water vapor flux (VIVF). Coefficients were obtained according to the VIVF values in two locations placed between the Amazon basin and southern Brazil, namely in Bolivia and Paraguay. The results show that the MSGW is directly impacted by moisture transport from the north in all seasons, and this transport is most significant at the 850 hPa level. In addition, the moisture and rainfall in the MSGW are also influenced by changes in the magnitude and direction of this flow, with an increase in transport in periods of El Niño, especially during spring. Therefore, the study brings insights into how changes in tropical South American climate, through a cascading effect, may affect the Mirim–São Gonçalo Watershed development in the middle latitudes from changes in the meridional water vapor transport, highlighting the importance of studying the tropical and extratropical interactions in South America for the MSGW management and sustainable development. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths rising worldwide. This is leading to an increased demand for liver transplantation (LT), the most effective treatment for HCC in its initial stages. However, current patient selection criteria are limited in predicting recurrence and raise ethical concerns about equitable access to care. This study aims to enhance patient selection by refining the HepatoPredict (HP) tool, a machine learning-based model that combines molecular and clinical data to forecast LT outcomes. Methods: The updated HP algorithm was trained on a two-center dataset and assessed against standard clinical criteria. Its prognostic performance was evaluated through accuracy metrics, with additional analyses considering tumor heterogeneity and potential sampling bias. Results: HP outperformed all clinical criteria, particularly regarding negative predictive value, addressing critical limitations in existing selection strategies. It also demonstrated improved differentiation of recurrence-free and overall survival outcomes. Importantly, the prognostic accuracy of HP remained largely unaffected by intra-nodule and intra-patient heterogeneity, indicating its robustness even when biopsies were taken from smaller or non-dominant nodules. Conclusions: These findings support the usage of HP as a valuable tool for optimizing LT candidate selection, promoting fair organ allocation and enhancing patient outcomes through integrated analysis of molecular and clinical data. Full article

Objective: To evaluate the humoral response to and impact of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in a multicenter cohort design. Methods: Data for this analysis were obtained from the Study of Safety, Effectiveness and Duration of Immunity after Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in Patients with Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases (SAFER), a prospective, multicenter, phase IV, real-world study conducted across different regions of Brazil from June/2021 to March/2024. Patients aged >18 years with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who received any one of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines approved by the Brazilian health regulatory agency (CoronaVac [inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine], ChAdOx-1 [AstraZeneca], or BNT162b2 [Pfizer-BioNTech]) were included. Immunogenicity was assessed in pre- and post-vaccination blood samples, and patients were monitored in person and remotely for the occurrence and severity of COVID-19. Results: Two hundred and thirty-five patients with SLE who had completed their vaccination schedules (two doses + booster dose) were included in this study. Most patients were female (89.3%) and had low disease activity or were in remission (72.4%); the majority were also on some form of immunosuppressive therapy (58.1%). One hundred and sixteen patients received two doses of CoronaVac followed by one dose of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccine, eighty-seven received two doses of ChAdOx1-S (AstraZeneca) followed by one dose of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccine, and thirty-two received three doses of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccine. Twenty-eight cases of COVID-19, none meeting criteria for severe COVID-19, were recorded in patients with respiratory symptoms after the second dose of a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Regarding immunogenicity, an increase in seroconversion rate was observed following consecutive vaccine doses, with no difference between vaccination schedules, reaching 97.57% seropositivity after a booster dose. The geometric mean IgG titers differed between the different vaccination schedules after the first and the second vaccine dose, being lowest for the CoronaVac-based schedule, but titers were similar after the administration of a booster dose. Conclusion: In patients with SLE, SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are immunogenic, inducing a robust humoral response. No severe outcomes associated with death or hospitalization were found in the evaluated patient sample. Complete vaccination schedules including a booster dose induced higher humoral responses than incomplete schedules, especially in patients initially immunized with an inactivated virus vaccine schedule and those with a suboptimal humoral response. Full article