Brazilian Journal of Science
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Root and aerial growth of corn subjected to different biological managements in seed treatment with Bacillus aryabhattai
Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can be an option to mitigate the impact of abiotic constraints in different cropping systems in the tropical semi-arid region. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the biometric growth parameters and root system of corn plants subjected to the use of Bacillus aryabhattai via seed treatment and furrow application. The trial was conducted in a commercial area in the southwestern region of Goiás, Brazil. The experiment was set up in a randomized block design with four treatments (T1 – Control; T2 – B. aryabhattai (4 mL kg-1 of seed) via seed treatment; T3 – B. aryabhattai (200 mL ha-1) via furrow application; T4 – B. aryabhattai (300 mL ha-1) via furrow application) and five replications, totaling 20 experimental plots. Root parameters (maximum root length (cm); root dry mass (g); root volume (cm3)) and biometric parameters (plant height (cm); ear insertion height (cm); stem diameter (mm); prolificacy (number of ears per plant); number of leaves) were evaluated. The application of Bacillus aryabhattai led to increases in root system volume and stem diameter in corn plants
Using blockchain technology for transparency in mining: a strategy to reduce corruption and increase accountability
The application of blockchain technology and the implementation of synthetic diamond production represent innovative strategies to transform the mineral resources sector in Angola, with a specific focus on the province of Lunda Sul, where the Catoca mine is located. Blockchain technology aims to improve the governance model and promote greater transparency and traceability in mining operations, a factor that contributes to the mitigation of corrupt practices and the strengthening of corporate responsibility. In addition, the production of synthetic diamonds emerges as a sustainable alternative, capable of reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional mining, and at the same time increasing the competitiveness of the sector in the global market. To support this work, an exploratory and explanatory methodology was adopted, including interviews with key stakeholders, such as two mining companies and the Department of Mines at the Faculty of Engineering of Agostinho Neto University. The referenced interviews enabled a detailed analysis of the current challenges of the sector and the opportunities related to the integration of disruptive technologies, such as blockchain technology, and sustainable practices, such as diamond synthesis. Therefore, the combination of such approaches can transform the Angolan mineral sector, aligning it with contemporary demands for transparency, sustainability, and operational efficiency
Molecular analysis coupling of some amino-derivatives with WRN exonuclease using a theoretical model
Studies indicate that some types of cancer have been associated with Werner syndrome (WR), which is characterized by premature aging. Some WR inhibitors, such as camptothecin, HRO761, VVD-133214, and KWR05, have been used to treat this clinical pathology; however, the interaction of these drugs with some biomolecule related with WR is not clear. For this reason, in this study, the coupling of amino derivatives (compounds 1-25) with WRN exonuclease was determined using 2fbt protein, HOR761, NSC19630, NSC617145, and NCS drugs as theoretical tools in the DockingServer program. Besides, physicochemical parameters, such as HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital), LUMO (lowest unoccupied molecular orbital), MR (molecular refractivity), and MV (molar volume), involved in the chemical structure of amino derivatives 1-25 were determined. The results showed differences in HOMO-LUMO, MR, and MV values for compounds 1-25. This data suggests that the reactivity of each compound depends on different functional groups involved in their chemical structure. Other data indicate that inhibition constant involved in the coupling of amino derivatives with 2fbt protein for compounds 3 (1.30), 6 (1.20), 7 (1.46), 8 (1.03), 14 (1.04), 15 (1.02), and 21 (2.57) was lower in comparison with the controls. These data indicate that these amino derivatives have higher affinity for the 2fbt protein surface, which may translate as changes in the biological activity of the WRN exonuclease and induce changes in cancer cell growth
Efficacy of Task-Oriented Interventions in Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Following Stroke: A Systematic Review
A stroke can cause significant dysfunction of the upper limb, severely affecting performance in everyday occupations. The task-oriented approach is grounded in occupational therapy principles and emphasizes the use of meaningful occupations to promote functional recovery. This review examines the effectiveness of the task-oriented approach during occupational therapy rehabilitation of the upper extremity following stroke. A comprehensive search was conducted on English-language literature published between 2018 and 2023, utilizing the databases Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar, as a supplementary source. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, an intensive screening process led to the inclusion of 16 relevant articles in this review. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro Scale. A narrative synthesis was conducted to summarize and interpret the findings of the included studies, which consisted of controlled trials examining the effectiveness of task-oriented interventions delivered alone or in combination with other rehabilitative approaches. The task-oriented approach was studied alongside (a) assistive technology, (b) the Bobath method, (c) mirror therapy, (d) Botulinum Toxin injections, and (e) other therapeutic techniques. Findings indicate that these interventions effectively enhance motor function, self-perceived arm use, and performance in activities of daily living. Integrating task-oriented therapy with the aforementioned therapeutic techniques is effective in managing the hemiplegic upper extremity after stroke. This review supports the implementation of the task-oriented approach in upper limb stroke rehabilitation, either alone or combined with other approaches. Nevertheless, due to the high heterogeneity of the task-oriented interventions studied, further research is required to comprehensively assess their efficacy in upper limb rehabilitation
Analysis of flow characteristics in circular pipes
Determining the fluid flow regime is critical for optimizing oil production processes. To address this need, we evaluated a method for characterizing flow by calculating the Reynolds number. Experiments were conducted using a closed-loop piping system equipped with a flow meter and a visualization chamber. The flow rate was systematically increased, and all tests were performed in triplicate to ensure accuracy and reliability. The results showed that the experimental setup effectively distinguished laminar, transitional, and turbulent flows in both single-phase and multiphase systems, with transitions visually confirmed by observing streamlines. This study presents a validated and practical approach for accurately determining flow regimes, offering direct benefits for the design and operation of industrial flow systems
Interoception and emotional regulation in autistic children through an occupational therapy perspective: A literature review
Understanding the interplay between interoception and emotional regulation is critical for advancing occupational therapy practices for autistic children and adolescents. These individuals often experience interoceptive processing difficulties, hindering emotional management, daily functioning, and societal participation. This review examines the relationship between interoception and emotional regulation and addresses relevant interventions to support these skills. To explore the relationship between interoception and emotional regulation and identify effective interventions that can inform occupational therapy practices for autistic individuals. A comprehensive search was conducted across three central electronic databases— PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar to identify studies that examined the relationship between interoception and emotional regulation in individuals with autism. Studies were conducted from 2013 to 2024. The search combined database-specific controlled language with keywords related to interoception, emotional regulation, occupational therapy, and autism spectrum disorder. A total of 49 studies meeting inclusion criteria were included. The review highlights the intricate connections between interoception and emotional regulation in autistic children, emphasizing challenges such as alexithymia and reduced interoceptive awareness. Interventions include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and specialized programs like the Aligning Dimensions of Interoceptive Experience and the Interoception Curriculum. These strategies can potentially enhance emotional well-being, self-regulation, and occupational engagement. Interoception and emotional regulation are foundational elements in the clinical reasoning of occupational therapists. Tailored, neurodiversity-affirmative interventions can promote emotional resilience and improve participation in daily activities for autistic individuals. Further research is necessary to develop inclusive and ethically aligned interventions that meet the needs of both clinicians and autistic people. This study underscores the significance of integrating interoceptive-based interventions into therapeutic practices to address emotional regulation challenges in autistic children, fostering their holistic development and societal inclusion
Geotechnical challenges in crystalline basement terrain: mapping subsurface conditions with electrical resistivity tomography in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
Subsoil investigation constitutes a critical step in the planning and execution of any construction project. It is a prerequisite for the design and construction of safe, stable, and sustainable structures. Subsoil investigation using Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) was carried out in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria to assess the integrity of foundation soils/near-subsurface geomaterials. The study area is underlain by the crystalline basement terrain of southwestern Nigeria. The study delineated low resistivity zones having as low as 63 Ωm at a depth of about 10 m, localized pockets of clay intercalated by lateritic soil, a stretch of geomaterials of high resistivity values over 10000 Ωm observed at a depth of 6 m, and a structural feature diagnostic of fractured zone with intense weathering at depths stretching beyond 25 m. The presence of an underground water channel within the fractured basement rock is significant. The geological variations along the traverses confirm the heterogeneity of the basement complex rocks, even over short distances. This is crucial for foundation design. A gross assumption of uniformity could be hazardous to the stability of the structure. Geophysics remains a very fundamental tool that can be applied in civil engineering work. Use of integrated geophysical methods would reduce ambiguities and enhance site characterization for construction purposes.
Influence of CuSO₄ application rates during the vegetative stage on agronomic characteristics of Glycine max (L.) Merrill
Several micronutrients are essential for the development of agriculturally important crops, including copper (Cu). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different doses of copper sulfate (CuSO4), expressed as mg L-1 of elemental Cu, on early-maturing soybean during the vegetative phase. Plant parameters such as shoot and root length, fresh and dry biomass of shoots and roots, and Cu bioaccumulation (expressed in mg kg⁻¹) in roots and shoots were assessed. Eight Cu concentrations (0, 5, 15, 35, 85, 100, 125, and 600 mg L-1) were prepared and applied directly into the planting furrow. A precocious soybean cultivar was used. Measurements were taken during the vegetative stage. Significant differences were observed at 100 and 125 mg L-1 doses for root length and root dry mass. The highest Cu bioaccumulation in roots and shoots occurred at 125 mg L-1, while concentrations above this threshold showed toxicity to the early-maturing soybean cultivar. The Cu source applied at varying doses influenced only root development parameters—specifically root length and root dry mass—as well as Cu content accumulated in both roots and shoots during the vegetative growth stage
Sustainable management of native flora at a Higher Education Institution
The promotion of environmental care is essential in the education of higher education students. Globally, the United Nations guarantees the right to a healthy environment, which promotes environmental education and sustainability. This project is aligned with SDG 15 of the 2030 Agenda, which seeks the conservation and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity protection and sustainable management of natural resources. The main objective is to promote and conserve green areas within the TecNM Campus Comalcalco, involving the technological community in creating a plant nursery. The study was carried out at the Institute, where a botanical garden was implemented and dasometric measurements were taken of 144 trees in the green areas of the institution. Students from different careers were involved in the installation of the botanical garden and the propagation of 89 plant species, using techniques such as cuttings, seeds, and seedlings. The creation of the botanical garden involved the entire community of the Institute, and its impact transcended the institution with workshops and plant donations to the local community. Plants were donated to the community at academic events and fairs, promoting environmental awareness beyond the Institute. In terms of the trees sampled, five species of major ecological importance were identified: Tabebuia rosea, Samanea samán, Ceiba pentandra, Persea americana, and Cedrela odorata. The largest trees, such as Samanea samán and Ceiba pentandra, showed the highest amount of biomass and carbon stored, with an average of 12,565.23 Mg. ha-1 of biomass and 6,282.61 MgC.ha-1 of carbon for Samanea samán. The botanical garden is projected as an educational and conservation resource that can be replicated in other educational settings and homes, extending its impact in time and space
Theoretical interaction of muscarinic receptor antagonist with vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGF-R1, R2 and R3) as a therapeutic alternative to treat cancer
Several biomolecules have been the target of some drugs for the treatment of cancer; however, there is little information on the interaction of muscarinic antagonists with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGF-R1, R2, R3). The aim of this research was to determine the possible interaction of muscarinic antagonists such as atropine, ML381, af-dx 386, azaprophen, darifenacin, dicyclomine, PD-102807, pirenzepine, telenzepine, Zamifenacin, and cyclohexylamine with VEGF-R1, R2, and R3. The theoretical interaction of muscarinic antagonists with VEGF-R1, R2, and R3 was carried out using the 2ho4, 3hng, and 4bsj proteins as theoretical tools. Besides, cabozantinib, pazopanib, regorafenib, and sorafenib drugs were used as controls. The results showed differences in the number of aminoacid residues and energy levels involved in the interaction of muscarinic antagonists with 2ho4, 3hng, and 4bsj proteins compared with the controls. Besides, the inhibition constants (Ki) values for atropine, ML-381, zaniferacin, and dicyclomine were lower compared with some controls. In conclusion, the results suggest that atropine, ML-381, zaniferacin, and dicyclomine could act as VEGF receptor inhibitors, could result in changes in the biological activity of angiogenesis, and this phenomenon could be translated as a decrease in cancer cell growth. Therefore, these drugs could be a good therapeutic alternative to evaluate their biological activity in some cancer models