Search Results (770)

Papillomaviruses (PVs) are double-stranded DNA viruses known to induce a variety of epithelial lesions in dogs, ranging from benign hyperplasia to malignancies. In regions of rich biodiversity such as the Western Amazon, data on the circulation and genetic composition of canine papillomaviruses (CPVs) remain scarce. This study investigated CPV types present in oral and cutaneous papillomatous lesions in domiciled dogs from Acre and Rondônia States, Brazil. Sixty-one dogs with macroscopically consistent lesions were clinically evaluated, and tissue samples were collected for histopathological examination and PCR targeting the L1 gene. Among these, 37% were histologically diagnosed as squamous papillomas or fibropapillomas, and 49.2% (30/61) tested positive for papillomavirus DNA. Sequencing of the L1 gene revealed that most positive samples belonged to CPV1 (Lambdapapillomavirus 2), while one case was identified as CPV8 (Chipapillomavirus 3). Complete genomes of three CPV1 strains were obtained via high-throughput sequencing and showed high identity with CPV1 strains from other Brazilian regions. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed close genetic relationships among isolates across distinct geographic areas. These findings demonstrate the circulation of genetically conserved CPVs in the Amazon and reinforce the value of molecular and histopathological approaches for the accurate diagnosis and surveillance of viral diseases in domestic dogs, especially in ecologically complex regions. Full article

Objective: To investigate the association between combined physical activity (PA) levels and sedentary behavior (SB) with dynapenic abdominal obesity (DAO) and dynapenic obesity (DO) in older adults. Methods: This cross-sectional, population-based epidemiological study included 207 community-dwelling older adults (58.90% women). PA and SB were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Participants were categorized into four groups: (G1) sufficiently active and low SB; (G2) sufficiently active and high SB; (G3) insufficiently active and low SB; and (G4) insufficiently active and high SB. DAO and DO were defined as the coexistence of dynapenia with abdominal and general obesity, respectively. Prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using Poisson regression with robust variance. Results: The prevalence of DAO was 11.10% and DO was 6.80%. In the adjusted analysis, participants classified as insufficiently active with high SB (G4) had 5.54 times the prevalence of DAO (PR: 5.54, 95% CI: 1.91–16.03) and 6.54 times the prevalence of DO (PR: 6.54, 95% CI: 1.68–36.66) compared to the reference group (G1) (sufficiently active and low SB). Conclusions: Insufficient PA combined with high SB was positively associated with both DAO and DO in the studied population of older adults. Full article

The surface topography of the rolls used in skin-pass cold rolling determines the surface finish of rolled sheets. In this sense, work rolls can be intentionally textured to produce certain topographical features on the final sheet surface. The maskless electrochemical texturing method (MECT) is a potential candidate for industrial-scale application due to its reduced texturing cost and time when compared to traditional texturing methods. However, there are few studies in the literature that address the MECT method applied to the topography control of cold rolling work rolls. The present work aims to analyze the viability of surface texturing via MECT of work rolls used in skin-pass cold rolling. In this study, we first investigated how texturing occurs for tool steel using flat textured samples to facilitate the understanding of the dissolution mechanisms involved. In this case, a specially designed texturing chamber was built to texture flat samples extracted from an actual work roll. The results indicated that the anodic dissolution involved in tool steel texturing occurs preferentially in the metallic matrix around the primary carbides. Then, we textured a work roll used in pilot-scale rolling tests, which required the development of a special prototype to texture cylindrical surfaces. After texturing, the texture transfer from the work roll to the sheets was investigated. Rolling tests showed that the work roll surface textured with a dimple pattern generated a pillar-shaped texture pattern on the sheet surface, possibly due to a reverse extrusion mechanism. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of intercropping Brassica oleracea. with three perennial grasses (Poa pratensis L., Lolium perenne L., and Festuca rubra L.) under varying levels of iron (Fe) availability (Fe0, Fe1 and Fe5) in nutrient solutions. The research focused on biomass accumulation, photosynthetic efficiency, root development, nutrient uptake, and oxidative stress response. In the absence of Fe, Brassica sp. exhibited chlorosis, reduced biomass, and increased ferric chelate reductase (FCR) enzyme activity as an adaptive response. Brassica plants intercropped with Poa sp. maintained higher chlorophyll (Chl) levels and photosystem II efficiency (F_v/F_m values), mitigating Fe deficiency effects. Catalase activity and polyphenol production varied with intercropping species, indicating differential stress response mechanisms. Intercropping improved Zn, Mn, and P accumulation, with Poa sp. facilitating greater Zn and Mn uptake. Intercropping Brassica sp. with specific grass species offers potential agronomic benefits by improving Fe use efficiency, mitigating stress, and enhancing nutrient uptake. Future research should focus on optimizing intercropping combinations for sustainable agricultural practices. Full article

Despite the benefits of resistance training in mitigating sarcopenia, adherence among frail older adults is often limited by osteoarticular pain, comorbidities, and logistical barriers. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has emerged as a potential alternative. However, evidence regarding its effects on functional and psychological parameters remains scarce. Objectives: To assess the effects of 12 PEMF therapy sessions on knee extensor strength and functional performance (Timed Up and Go test—TUG) in older adults with sarcopenia. Secondary outcomes included changes in calf circumference (CC), SARC-F + CC scores, and depressive symptoms. Methods: A controlled, non-randomized experimental design was employed, with a pre-intervention control group serving as a baseline reference (PEMF group: n = 25; control group: n = 16). Participants received 12 PEMF therapy sessions (three times per week) targeting the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles. Outcomes were measured using knee-extension dynamometry, TUG, CC, SARC-F + CC, and the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale. Statistical analyses included ANCOVA, with baseline values as covariates. Results: Significant improvements were observed in knee-extension strength, which increased from 13.05 ± 4.8 kgf to 18.56 ± 8 kgf (p < 0.001); TUG test time improved from 23.1 ± 14.4 to 18.7 ± 10 s (p = 0.048); SARC-F + CC scores decreased from 11.6 ± 8.2 to 6.5 ± 7.6 (p < 0.001), though the interaction effect with time was not significant (p = 0.252). No statistically significant changes were observed in CC, which increased from 34.0 ± 4.0 cm to 36.0 ± 3.9 cm following the intervention (p = 0.548). Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale scores improved significantly (7.9 ± 2.4 to 5.4 ± 1.7, p = 0.0013). Conclusions: PEMF therapy significantly improved lower-limb muscle strength and functional mobility in elderly individuals with sarcopenia. Additionally, depressive symptoms were significantly reduced. However, no significant changes were observed in CC or SARC-F + CC. Full article

Background/Objectives: Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common malignant tumor of the salivary glands. Metastatic spread occurs in up to 80% of high-grade tumors; however, the mechanisms underlying this process are largely unknown. Large-scale microRNA (miRNA) expression profiling studies of human cancers have demonstrated that dysregulation of miRNA is frequently associated with many cancer types. This study aimed to investigate the miRNA profiles of metastatic and non-metastatic MECs. Methods: Using real-time RT-PCR (qPCR), we analyzed the expression of 377 miRNAs in four non-metastatic MECs, three MECs with lymph node metastasis, three MECs with distant metastasis, and two non-neoplastic human salivary glands. To identify differentially expressed miRNAs, bioinformatics analysis was performed using hierarchical clustering analysis. Results: The miRNA profile discriminated between non-neoplastic and tumor samples and between metastatic and non-metastatic tumors. Twelve miRNAs were differentially expressed between non-neoplastic and non-metastatic MECs. MEC analysis of non-neoplastic and lymph node metastases demonstrated that 10 miRNAs were differentially expressed. In non-neoplastic versus distant metastatic MECs, three miRNAs were differentially expressed: one downregulated and two upregulated. By comparing non-metastatic MECs with lymph node metastatic MECs, we identified 17 upregulated miRNAs. Considering non-metastatic MECs versus distant metastatic MECs, two miRNAs were upregulated. One miRNA was differentially expressed between lymph node metastatic and distant metastatic MECs. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that miRNA profiles may serve as valuable biomarkers for distinguishing the metastatic potential of salivary MECs, warranting further investigation to validate their utility in clinical practice. Full article

Background: Heat stress challenges small ruminants in semi-arid regions, requiring integrative multi-modeling approaches to identify adaptive thermotolerance traits. This study aimed to identify phenotypic biomarkers and explore the relationships between thermoregulatory responses and hematological, behavioral, morphometric, carcass, and meat traits in lambs. Methods: Twenty 4-month-old non-castrated male lambs, with an average body weight of 19.0 ± 5.11 kg, were evaluated under natural heat stress. Results: Thermoregulatory variables were significantly associated with non-carcass components (p = 0.002), carcass performance (p = 0.027), commercial meat cuts (p = 0.032), and morphometric measures (p = 0.029), with a trend for behavioral responses (p = 0.078). The main phenotypic traits related to thermoregulation included idleness duration, cold carcass weight, blood, liver, spleen, shank, chest circumference, and body length. Exploratory factor analysis reduced the significant indicators to seven latent domains: carcass traits, commercial meat cuts, non-carcass components, idleness and feeding behavior, and morphometric and thermoregulatory responses. Bayesian network modeling revealed interdependencies, showing carcass traits influenced by morphometric and thermoregulatory responses and non-carcass traits linked to ingestive behavior. Thermoregulatory variables were not associated with meat quality or hematological traits. Conclusions: These findings highlight the complex biological relationships underlying heat adaptation and emphasize the potential of combining phenomic data with computational tools to support genomic selection for climate-resilient and welfare-oriented breeding programs. Full article

The selection of start-ups by business incubators (BIs) is one of the main processes of these organizations that aim to promote entrepreneurship and economic development. Through a systematic literature review of the BI selection phase, following the PRISMA guidelines, a new conceptual model is proposed, delineating findings across three dimensions: the incubatee–incubator alignment and BI strategy, the selection criteria considered, and the decision-making methods used. The conceptual model proposed here represents the first conceptual model focused exclusively on the selection of start-ups by BIs, mapping practices in terms of start-up selection that hold important practical implications for BI managers. Considering the growing need to align economic performance with environmental and social objectives, the start-up selection process by BIs also plays a key role in fostering sustainability-oriented ventures. This fact increases the relevance of this selection phase, not only in terms of operational efficiency, but also as a potential lever for sustainable regional development. Findings emphasize the need for future research that integrates all three dimensions simultaneously, explains the selection process at an operational level, and assesses the importance of this phase for BI performance. Full article

Introduction: Social prescribing is an innovative approach that connects individuals to community-based activities to promote well-being. This study explores the barriers and facilitators influencing older adults’ engagement in social prescribing programmes in Portugal. Methodology: A qualitative study was carried out in October 2024, in Portugal, with 16 participants aged 65 and over. Data was collected through two focus groups, each with eight participants. Data were analysed using the COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation) to identify key factors affecting adherence. Results: The main barriers identified were physical limitations, digital exclusion, transport inaccessibility, and the urban-centric location of services. Facilitators comprised tailored activities, digital support and education, accessible venues and transport, and personalised interventions. Ongoing feedback mechanisms and familiar community settings were essential for sustained participation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that co-designed, inclusive, and locally accessible programmes can significantly enhance the involvement and well-being of older adults. Full article

Molybdenum fertilization represents a viable alternative for improving forage quality, potentially complementing or enhancing the effects of nitrogen fertilization. This study aimed to determine whether foliar or soil application of molybdenum would increase the crude protein content and digestibility of sorghum cultivated as a monoculture or intercropped with cowpea. The first experiment followed a 2 × 2 + 2 factorial design, including two application methods (foliar or soil), two cropping systems (monoculture or intercropping), and two additional control treatments (with and without molybdenum). In the second experiment, a split-plot design was used to assess the effects of molybdenum fertilization on the in situ digestibility of sorghum from monoculture and intercropping systems. Molybdenum fertilization increased the levels of crude protein, total carbohydrates, and soluble fractions. It also enhanced the disappearance rate, potential degradability, and effective degradability of sorghum, regardless of the application method or cropping system. Foliar or soil application of molybdenum is recommended to optimize the crude protein content and in situ digestibility of sorghum cultivated either as a monoculture or intercropped with cowpea. Full article

Flexed and tensed arm (FTA) circumference is a fundamental anthropometric measurement for determining the mesomorphic component in somatotype. This study examined the impact of contralateral limb opposition (+OP) on arm circumference measurement and biceps brachii muscle activation. Fifty physically active men and women, mean (22.7 ± 2.9 years), participated in this study. FTA circumference measurements were taken with FTA + OP and without opposition FTA, following ISAK protocols. Additionally, biceps brachii muscle activation was assessed using surface electromyography (sEMG). Significant differences were identified in the flexed and tensed arm circumference (>1%) and in the mesomorphic component between the FTA and FTA + OP conditions (p < 0.001). In addition, contralateral limb opposition resulted in a significant average increase of 39.02% in biceps brachii muscle activation, with variations between 24.57% to 47.46% across the time intervals analyzed (p < 0.05). A moderate correlation was observed between the percentage difference in sEMG and arm circumference during the middle second of contraction (r = 0.418). However, during the first (r = 0.393), third (r = 0.376), and mean (r = 0.385) contraction periods, the correlation was considered weak. Contralateral limb opposition caused greater biceps brachii muscle activation, resulting in an increase in flexed and tensed arm circumference in physically active young adults. Full article

Celtis iguanaea, widely used in Brazilian folk medicine, is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. This study evaluated the in vitro antioxidant capacity and the in vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of the standardized spray-dried Celtis iguanaea hydroethanolic leaf extract (SDCi). Phytochemical analysis showed that SDCi contains 21.78 ± 0.82 mg/g polyphenols, 49.69 ± 0.57 mg/g flavonoids, and 518.81 ± 18.02 mg/g phytosterols. UFLC-DAD-MS identified iridoid glycosides, p-coumaric acid glycosides, flavones, and unsaturated fatty acids. Antioxidant assays revealed an IC₅₀ of 301.6 ± 38.8 µg/mL for DPPH scavenging and an electrochemical index of 6.1 μA/V. In vivo, SDCi (100–1000 mg/kg, p.o) did not impair locomotor function (rotarod test) but significantly reduced acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing and both phases of the formalin test at higher doses (300 and 1000 mg/kg). The antinociceptive effects were independent of α-2 adrenergic receptors. SDCi also increased latency in the hot-plate test and reduced paw edema in the carrageenan model, accompanied by decreased IL-1β and increased IL-10 levels. Histological analysis showed a 50% reduction in inflammatory cell infiltration. These findings support SDCi as an effective anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive phytopharmaceutical intermediate, with potential applications in managing pain and inflammation. Full article

Hydrogen is gaining prominence as a clean energy vector, yet its extreme flammability demands robust detection solutions for industrial safety. In this study, we present the development and experimental validation of a microwave hydrogen gas sensor based on a patch-type microstrip antenna with a silver sensing element. The device operates at 5.99 GHz and was tested under controlled environmental conditions (humidity: 20 ± 0.4%, temperature: 27 ± 0.2 °C). Hydrogen exposure induces measurable shifts in the antenna’s resonant frequency due to dielectric modulation of the silver layer. The sensor exhibited a linear sensitivity of 3 kHz/ppm in the 310–600 ppm concentration range, with a residual standard deviation of 31.1 kHz and a calculated limit of detection (LOD) of approximately 31 ppm. The reflection coefficient remained below −10 dB throughout, confirming that the antenna maintains functional RF performance during sensing. These results demonstrate the sensor’s dual functionality for gas detection and communication, offering a compact and scalable platform for hydrogen safety monitoring. Full article

Homeopathy is widely used as a complementary therapy, but its effects on the behavior of production animals remain underexplored. This study evaluated the influence of a homeopathic complex on the behavior of castrated male and female piglets in the nursery phase. The experiment lasted 35 days and involved 105 animals. Piglets were allotted to five treatments in a completely randomized block design with seven replicates using three piglets per experimental unit. Tested treatments were: negative control—basal diet without additives; basal diets with 4.5, 6.0, 7.5, and 9.0 kg/ton of the homeopathic complex in the feed. Behavioral tests included open field (OF), novel object (NO), sociability, discriminative learning, judgment bias, and reactivity during weighing (RDW). Vocalizations were lower in females than males during the OF test (p = 0.016). In the RDW test, a trend was identified (p = 0.076): as the level of the homeopathic complex increased, escape attempts decreased in females and increased in males (sex × treatment interaction). Females also showed greater resistance to movement (p = 0.018). Our study suggests that the homeopathic complex does not impact the behavior of castrated male and female nursery piglets. The findings further illustrate that the sex of the animals affects their behavior, with females displaying higher levels of inactivity compared to castrated male piglets. Full article

In this work, biocomposites of polylactic acid (PLA) and polypropylene (PP) with micronized cellulose (MC) were produced by mold injection and subjected to accelerated aging with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The tests took place over 10 weeks, during which the produced specimens were exposed to a total of 1050 h of ultraviolet light. During the UV aging test, images were captured, and spectral reflectance and colorimetric measurements were carried out on the specimens exposed to UV and on specimens of the same materials kept in the dark (originals). As expected, only residual color differences were observed in the original specimens with values of ΔE*_ab always below 0.5. On the other hand, spectral reflectance and colorimetric changes were noticed over time in the specimens subjected to UV radiation. In particular, the values of ΔE*_ab increased over time and were found to be higher for PLA with MC compared to PP with MC. Values of ΔE*_ab = 4.7, 9.0, and 10.4 were obtained for weeks 1, 5, and 10, respectively, for the specimens of PLA with MC, whereas ΔE*_ab = 4.5, 6.8, and 7.3 were obtained for weeks 1, 5, and 10, respectively, for the specimens of PP with MC. Therefore, it was found that the specimens of PLA with MC showed greater color fading compared to the specimens of PP with MC when subjected to UV exposure. In addition, it was also found in this work that besides the color differences noted in the tested specimens, those made of PP with MC also showed signs of surface damage. Full article