Search Results (10,801)

The Oropouche virus (OROV), an orthobunyavirus primarily transmitted by the biting midge Culicoides paraensis, is the causative agent of Oropouche fever, a re-emerging arboviral disease associated with significant morbidity in Central and South America. The increasing frequency of outbreaks, including cases of sustained transmission in non-endemic regions and reports of vertical transmission, highlights the growing public health concern posed by OROV. Currently, there are no specific antiviral therapies or licensed vaccines available, underscoring the urgent need for effective therapeutic and preventive strategies. Recent advances in antiviral research have identified promising candidates, including repurposed drugs and bioactive compounds that target key stages of the viral replication cycle. In parallel, vaccine development has progressed through modern platforms, including viral vector-based and nucleic-acid-based technologies, enabling rapid responses to emerging outbreaks. However, major challenges remain, particularly due to the limited understanding of OROV pathogenesis, virus–host interactions, and the correlates of protective immunity. Furthermore, the ongoing evolution of OROV, including the genetic diversity and potential genomic rearrangements observed among circulating strains, represents an additional challenge that may influence viral characteristics and potentially affect the long-term efficacy of antiviral interventions and vaccine-induced protection. This review summarizes recent advances in the discovery of antiviral candidates and the development of vaccine approaches against OROV, both of which are essential for reducing the impact of OROV infections and strengthening preparedness for future outbreaks. Full article

This study presents the design, development, and experimental validation of an automated flat blade grinding machine for the wood processing and plastic recycling industries in Ecuador. The machine was engineered following the VDI 2221/2222/2225 design methodology, integrating SolidWorks-based 3D modeling and ANSYS finite element analysis (FEA) to validate critical structural components. The selected configuration includes a Type 6 alumina grinding wheel (38A-60-K-VS), a mechanical clamping system, cutting fluid cooling, and a hardwired electromechanical control system that does not require a programmable logic controller (PLC). FEA results confirmed adequate safety factors (ηs > 16; ηf > 14) for the ACME 3/4–8 power screw under operational loads. Experimental testing on blade specimens (thickness: 3 mm; length: 70 mm; steel up to 60 HRC) demonstrated that four grinding passes at a 45° inclination angle reduced mean surface roughness (Ra) from 5.39 ± 1.83 µm (used blades) to 0.162 ± 0.092 µm, achieving values comparable to new blades (Ra = 0.601 ± 0.153 µm): a point-estimate reduction of 97% in mean Ra relative to the used-blade condition. The automated process reduced average grinding time by approximately 30% compared to manual methods, while maintaining noise levels within the 85 dB occupational exposure limit. Operator satisfaction surveys rated the system above 4.5/5.0 across all ergonomic and usability criteria. These results validate the proposed machine as a cost-effective, locally manufacturable solution to standardize blade maintenance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Latin America. Full article

This systematic review analyzes the effectiveness of technological tools in Higher Education across Ibero-American universities. The study aims to identify evidence-based guidelines for the effective integration of technology within Ibero-American Higher Education institutions, and to evaluate how these tools contribute to the professional training of future graduates. A systematic search was conducted in the Scopus database between 14 July and 16 July 2025, covering publications from 2016 to 2025. Applying the PRISMA 2020 methodology and predefined eligibility criteria, a final sample of 19 studies was selected for synthesis. A structured risk of bias assessment was performed, classifying the included studies into low, moderate and high-risk levels. The analysis shows that 84% of the analyzed studies report a positive impact on academic development, supporting the need for pedagogically driven technological integration and sustained institutional support to maximize educational outcomes. Full article

Introduction: Community-based day center programs may support healthy ageing by promoting functional ability, mental well-being, and social participation among older adults, but real-world evidence from Latin America remains limited. Objective: We aimed to examine changes in functional status, mental health, and quality of life among older adults participating in the CEDIAM program in the Maule Region of Chile in 2022 and 2023. Methods: Pre–post observational study using routinely collected data from 15 CEDIAM centers. The 2022 and 2023 datasets were analyzed as independent cohorts. Functional status was assessed with the Barthel Index, the Lawton and Brody scale, and the Timed Up and Go test; mental health with the Mini-Mental State Examination and the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale; and quality of life with the EuroQol-5D visual analogue scale. Paired comparisons, category-transition analyses, and multivariable logistic regression models of improvement were performed. Results: Baseline samples included 894 participants in 2022 and 897 in 2023. In 2022, all continuous outcomes improved significantly (all p ≤ 0.001). In 2023, the Barthel Index, the Timed Up and Go test, and the Geriatric Depression Scale improved (all p < 0.0001), and the EuroQol-5D visual analogue scale also improved (p < 0.01), whereas the Lawton and Brody scale (p = 0.204) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (p = 0.725) did not. Category-transition analyses showed significant improvements in basic activities of daily living and mobility in both cohorts (both p < 0.001), while significant categorical changes in instrumental activities of daily living, global cognition, depressive symptoms, and self-rated quality of life were observed only in 2022 (all p ≤ 0.01). Rural residence was associated with higher odds of improvement in basic activities of daily living (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.17–2.25; p = 0.004), whereas age ≥75 years was associated with lower odds of improvement in depressive symptoms (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.41–0.76; p < 0.001) and self-rated quality of life (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.45–0.94; p = 0.023). Conclusions: Participation in CEDIAM was associated with favorable changes, particularly in basic functional status and mobility, although responses varied across outcomes and participant subgroups. Full article

This study compares the microstructure, texture evolution, and mechanical behavior of Maraging 300 steel produced by selective laser melting (SLM) and conventional manufacturing (CM), subjected to solid solution treatment, cold rolling (up to 89.4% reduction), and aging. Results showed that while both routes achieved similar hardness, AM maintained stable hardness at extreme deformations, whereas CM peaked at 80.7% reduction. Tensile tests at ~80% reduction revealed that CM achieved higher ultimate tensile strength (2105 MPa) than AM (1807 MPa), but AM demonstrated superior ductility (16.7% vs. 10.8%). Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) analyses indicated that the AM material accommodated strain more homogeneously due to its initial fine cellular substructure, leading to greater crystallographic fragmentation, whereas CM exhibited pronounced strain localization. In conclusion, the initial microstructural state dictated by the manufacturing route fundamentally governs the deformation mechanisms, explaining the distinct strength–ductility balance observed between additively and conventionally processed Maraging 300 steel. Full article

5q spinal muscular atrophy (5q-SMA) is a leading genetic cause of infant mortality. Presymptomatic intervention with disease-modifying therapies significantly improves motor outcomes, but effectiveness depends on early detection through newborn screening (NBS). Despite global 5q-SMA NBS expansion and recent Brazilian federal legislation, regional disparities and a lack of systematic monitoring hinder access to timely diagnosis and care. This study addresses these gaps by evaluating a statewide pilot program in São Paulo. We used multiplex real-time PCR to detect SMN1 exon 7 deletions in dried blood spots, confirming SMN1/2 copy numbers via MLPA in positive cases. Under real-world conditions, timeliness key performance indicators were evaluated to assess operational efficiency. 194,714 newborns were screened with 14 positive cases, yielding a prevalence of 1:13,908. First-tier results and treatment initiation occurred at a median of 10.8 and 28 days of life, respectively. Notably, 78.6% of patients had two SMN2 copies, of which approximately half were symptomatic by the first evaluation, highlighting the critical need for rapid screening to prevent irreversible motor decline. Screening achieved 100% specificity. This pilot demonstrates the feasibility of 5q-SMA NBS within the Brazilian public health system, providing essential evidence to overcome logistical and socioeconomic barriers and support nationwide expansion. Full article

Influenza A (H5N1) is a highly pathogenic zoonotic virus with a human fatality rate of approximately 60%. Pediatric cases and associated neurological manifestations remain poorly documented in Latin America. This report describes the first confirmed Ecuadorian pediatric case of H5N1-associated encephalitis and multisystem organ failure in a previously healthy 9-year-old female following direct contact with infected poultry. The clinical course was characterized by an atypical initial presentation of bilateral periorbital edema and headache, progressing to acute encephalitis, cerebral ischemia, flaccid tetraplegia, central diabetes insipidus, and refractory septic shock. Diagnostic confirmation was achieved via nasopharyngeal RT-PCR, with additional RT-PCR and sequencing performed on cerebrospinal fluid, which identified conserved influenza A M1/M2 gene fragments, while laboratory markers—including marked elevations in IL-6, ferritin, and CRP—indicated a severe hyperinflammatory state. Management involved an intensive multidisciplinary approach utilizing oseltamivir, intravenous immunoglobulin, modulated-dose corticosteroids, desmopressin, and mechanical ventilation. Despite a severe clinical course, the patient achieved a favorable recovery, with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15/15 at discharge and only partial residual paresis and left hypoacusia as sequelae. This landmark case provides rare evidence of H5N1 neuroinvasion in a pediatric patient and demonstrates that timely detection combined with aggressive immunotherapy and antiviral treatment can improve survival. Furthermore, it underscores the critical necessity for strengthened regional molecular surveillance and clinical training to recognize atypical presentations of emerging zoonoses in Latin America, especially in cases involving contact with sick poultry. Full article

Background: Misinformation, disinformation, and a lack of information about abortion impede access. Mystery shopping designs are well-suited for evaluating the availability, accuracy, and quality of health services. However, we lack understanding of their use in abortion research. Methods: Our team conducted a scoping review to synthesize evidence of mystery shopping methods in abortion research internationally. We followed the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and engaged the expertise of a clinical research librarian. We included all English and French language studies of abortion using mystery shopping methods (phone, in person, or other). We did not limit the search by date range or jurisdiction. Results: We included 40 studies in our review, published between 2006 and 2025. Settings included 13 countries: USA (13), India (5), Canada (3), Mexico (3), Turkey (3), Bangladesh (2), Colombia (2), Ghana (2), Indonesia (2), and one each in Kenya, Nepal, Tanzania, Zambia, and Latin America. Methods included calls (20), in-person visits (18), texts/online messages (3), and combinations of mystery shopping with interviews/surveys (7) and systematic online searching (2). Themes included service availability and information quality, with seven subthemes, which we mapped to elements of the Levesque framework of patient-centred access: Approachability; acceptability; availability and accommodation; affordability; and appropriateness. Conclusions: Where abortion is decriminalized, efforts to improve abortion can prioritize Levesque’s concepts, such as ensuring care is affordable, culturally safe, and geographically proximal. Mystery shopping can proxy patient experience and be used as a validity check, such as comparing health professionals’ self-reported practice with that experienced by mystery shoppers. Full article

With the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy generation, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology has emerged as a promising approach for transforming EVs from passive charging loads into flexible distributed energy storage resources. By enabling bidirectional power exchange between EV batteries and the power grid, V2G can support renewable energy accommodation, peak shaving, demand response, ancillary services, and local grid balancing. This review provides a systematic synthesis of recent advances in V2G systems for renewable energy integration, with particular emphasis on coordinated scheduling, economic mechanisms, battery degradation, and user engagement. First, the technical foundations of V2G are introduced, including Vehicle-to-Everything operating modes, bidirectional charging architecture, aggregation mechanisms, grid-support services, and renewable accommodation pathways. Second, major scheduling strategies are reviewed, including price-based, load-based, renewable-forecast-driven, centralized, distributed, and hybrid approaches. Third, the economic feasibility of V2G is examined from the perspectives of revenue streams, pricing mechanisms, business models, battery aging costs, and compensation schemes. In addition, user participation barriers, such as range anxiety, battery lifetime concerns, loss of control, uncertain financial returns, and data privacy, are discussed. Key challenges related to communication standards, interoperability, cybersecurity, market access, policy design, and pilot-scale validation are also summarized. Finally, future development directions are identified, including AI-based scheduling, aggregator platforms, fleet-scale V2G, degradation-aware optimization, carbon-aware electricity markets, and user-centered participation mechanisms. This review highlights that large-scale V2G deployment requires the integrated coordination of technical scheduling, economic incentives, battery health protection, and user acceptance in renewable-rich power systems. Full article

This comprehensive meta-analysis reviews 45 studies published from 2000 to 2024 that use quantitative methods to examine how educational poverty—limited resources, poor-quality teaching, and disadvantaged school settings—affects students’ academic outcomes. Following PRISMA guidelines, effect sizes were calculated using random-effects models to account for variability across studies. Educational poverty was associated with a moderate, significant negative impact on achievement (Hedges’ g = −0.45, 95% CI: −0.50 to −0.40); this likely reflects a performance gap of about 10–15% between disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged students. Variability across studies led to subgroup and meta-regression analyses. The negative effects were more pronounced for primary students (g = −0.50) than secondary students, especially in high-inequality regions like North America (g = −0.55), and were largest for cognitive outcomes such as standardized test scores (g = −0.50), compared to non-cognitive metrics like attendance and graduation. Meta-regression showed that location, age group, and outcome type significantly affected effect sizes. Sensitivity tests and bias assessments confirmed consistent results. Overall, the studies highlight that educational poverty remains a major barrier to academic success, with the strongest effects seen early in education. These findings underscore the importance of early, targeted, and context-specific policies to reduce inequalities and improve learning conditions for underprivileged students. Full article

Accurate electricity consumption forecasting is essential for the efficient planning and operation of modern power systems. The development of predictive models based on machine learning and deep learning strongly depends on the availability of well-documented and publicly accessible electricity consumption datasets. However, most existing databases are concentrated in Europe and North America and are typically focused on residential measurements obtained from smart meters, resulting in limited representation of equatorial regions. This work presents a structured review of public electricity consumption repositories, analyzing characteristics such as geographical coverage, temporal resolution, user type, and accessibility. Based on the limitations identified in the literature, a new electricity consumption dataset obtained from real measurements collected at distribution substations located in an equatorial region is presented. The dataset was organized through a systematic preprocessing workflow that included temporal standardization, construction of 48-hour sliding windows, normalization, and stratified partitioning into training, validation, and test subsets. The descriptive statistical analysis confirms the consistency of the generated subsets and reveals differences between working-day and non-working-day consumption patterns. The proposed dataset provides a reproducible resource for the development and evaluation of multi-horizon electricity demand forecasting models, as well as for load analysis and energy management studies in equatorial regions. Full article

This article uses Jacob Gorender’s theory of colonial slavery to challenge a core premise of modern social theory—that labor inherently generates freedom. In Hegel and Marx, productive activity enables recognition, consciousness, and ultimately emancipation. The article argues that this mechanism depended on a historically specific condition: the worker’s juridical possession of labor-power. Plantation slavery abolished that condition. The enslaved laborer did not sell labor but was owned as labor, making alienation, recognition, and class formation structurally impossible. Building on Gorender’s claim that colonial slavery constituted a distinct mode of production integrated into global markets, this article shows that plantation economies produced accumulation without proletarianization, commercialization without citizenship, and economic modernization without social emancipation. Drawing on institutional theory, it further argues that the legal and political arrangements created to manage coerced labor persisted after abolition and continue to structure inequality and coercive governance across the Americas. American modernity therefore followed a trajectory different from the European one: rather than emerging from the emancipation of labor, it developed from its permanent subordination, indicating the existence of multiple modernities. Full article

This paper explores the culinary and cultural significance of cooked leafy vegetables among Afro-descendant communities in French Guiana and Suriname, including French Guianese and Surinamese Creoles, Maroons, and Haitian migrants. While leafy greens play a major dietary role across sub-Saharan Africa, their consumption in the Americas remains understudied. This ethnobotanical study of edible leafy plants is based on surveys of local markets, gardens and residents. Drawing on 26 informal interviews conducted in four local languages (French, French Guianese Creole, Haitian Creole, and Nengee Tongo), we describe 36 species of edible leaves from 20 plant families consumed in the region. Our findings show that although the practice of eating leafy greens is widely shared, the species selected, their names, and their perceived properties vary noticeably across cultural groups. Some plants are eaten exclusively by Maroons (e.g., Cestrum latifolium, Capsicum spp.), others by Haitians (e.g., Corchorus olitorius, Rivina humilis), and some have fallen into disuse among younger generations. These differences are shaped by ecological availability, cultural memory, food-medicine beliefs, and interethnic influences. We suggest that the term callaloo (referring to both dishes and leafy vegetables), which circulates in multiple linguistic and culinary forms throughout the African diaspora, can serve as a metaphor for the interculturalization of foodways. More than ingredients, these leafy vegetables act as dynamic cultural markers—symbols of resilience, transmission, and transformation. In a context of rapid globalization, where unseen foods risk sinking further into obscurity, these plant-based traditions highlight both the adaptability and fragility of Afro-descendant culinary heritage in the Guiana Shield. Full article

Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) is a pathogen that causes Gumboro disease in young chickens. Vaccine strains and field IBDV genotypes are disseminated in chickens from commercial poultry farms worldwide. This study aimed to detect the field IBDV genotypic diversity in poultry farms in Latin America, mainly in Brazil. Bursal samples from 69 broiler flocks in eleven Latin American countries were obtained between 2015 and 2025. All 69 samples tested were positive for IBDV; the VP2 (segment A) and VP1 (segment B) genes were sequenced. Phylogenetic and amino acid substitution analyses were performed with large genetic datasets, including previously identified IBDV genotypes worldwide. The results revealed four A (A1, A2, A3, and A4) and three B (B1, B2, and the candidate B6) genogroups in Latin America. Furthermore, genotypes A1B1 (1.4%), A2B1 (59.4%), A3B2 (20.3%), A3B6 (2.9%), and A4B1 (15.9%) were identified. A2B1 could be subdivided into A2aB1a (24.4%), A2bB1a (29.3%), A2dB1b (19.5%), and A2eB1a (26.8%). In Brazil, the field genotypes A3B2, A4B1, and A3B6 were demonstrated. These findings highlight an important IBDV genotypic diversity in Latin American countries and reinforce the need for continuous molecular surveillance to support control and vaccination programs. Full article

Ulomoides dermestoides (Yangchong) is a tenebrionid beetle used in traditional medicine across Asia and Latin America. While crude extracts show effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and other conditions, systematic integration of its bioactive substances, mechanisms, and translational potential is lacking. This review consolidates its chemical basis, comprising volatile benzoquinones, terpenes, and alkenes, alongside non-volatile fatty acids, proteins (antioxidant enzymes, glycoproteins), and phenolics. Pharmacological evidence indicates multi-target modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cytokines, leukocyte recruitment, endothelial activation, and thromboinflammation. Recent advances include proteomic identification of antioxidant protein complexes, neuroprotection in a Parkinson’s disease model, chromosome-level genome assembly, and isolation of the UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase 2a (UGP2A) glycoprotein, which alleviates thrombosis partly via toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (TLR4/MyD88)-mediated endothelial anti-inflammatory effects. However, most evidence remains preclinical, relying on non-standardized crude extracts, and benzoquinone-containing fractions display potential cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. Future research should integrate bioassay-guided isolation, structural characterization, multi-omics, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis, standardized quality markers, and rigorous safety evaluation to transform U. dermestoides from an empirical insect-derived medicinal resource into a scientifically validated source of preclinical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory candidate substances. Full article