Mapping the Future: Revealing Habitat Preferences and Patterns of the Endangered Chilean Dolphin in Seno Skyring, Patagonia.

Species distribution modeling helps understand how environmental factors influence species distribution, creating profiles to predict presence in unexplored areas and assess ecological impacts. This study examined the habitat use and population ecology of the Chilean dolphin in Seno Skyring, Chilean Patagonia. We used three models-random forest (RF), generalized linear model (GLM), and artificial neural network (ANN)-to predict dolphin distribution based on environmental and biotic data like water temperature, salinity, and fish farm density. Our research has determined that the RF model is the most precise tool for predicting the habitat preferences of Chilean dolphins. The results indicate that these dolphins are primarily located within six kilometers of the coast, strongly correlating with areas featuring numerous fish farms, sheltered waters close to the shore with river inputs, and shallow productive zones. This suggests a potential association between dolphin presence and fish-farming activities. These findings can guide targeted conservation measures, such as regulating fish-farming practices and protecting vital coastal areas to improve the survival prospects of the Chilean dolphin. Given the extensive fish-farming industry in Chile, this research highlights the need for greater knowledge and comprehensive conservation efforts to ensure the species' long-term survival. By understanding and mitigating the impacts of fish farming and other human activities, we can better protect the habitat and well-being of Chilean dolphins.

A comprehensive study of source apportionment, spatial distribution, and health risks assessment of heavy metal(loid)s in the surface soils of a semi-arid mining region in Matehuala, Mexico.

BACKGROUND: This study investigates the contamination level, spatial distribution, pollution sources, potential ecological risks, and human health risks associated with heavy metal(loid)s (i.e., arsenic (As), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn)) in surface soils within the mining region of Matehuala, located in central Mexico. OBJECTIVES: The primary objectives are to estimate the contamination level of heavy metal(loid)s, identify pollution sources, assess potential ecological risks, and evaluate human health risks associated with heavy metal(loid) contamination. METHODS: Soil samples from the study area were analysed using various indices including Igeo, Cf, PLI, mCd, EF, and PERI to evaluate contamination levels. Source apportionment of heavy metal(loid)s was conducted using the APCS-MLR and PMF receptor models. Spatial distribution patterns were determined using the most efficient interpolation technique among five different approaches. The total carcinogenic risk index (TCR) and total non-carcinogenic index (THI) were used in this study to assess the potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic hazards posed by heavy metal(loid)s in surface soil to human health. RESULTS: The study reveals a high contamination level of heavy metal(loid)s in the surface soil, posing considerable ecological risks. As was identified as a priority metal for regulatory control measures. Mining and smelting activities were identified as the primary factors influencing heavy metal(loid) distributions. Based on spatial distribution mapping, concentrations were higher in the northern, western, and central regions of the study area. As and Fe were found to pose considerable and moderate ecological risks, respectively. Health risk evaluation indicated significant levels of carcinogenic risks for both adults and children, with higher risks for children. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the urgent need for monitoring heavy metal(loid) contamination in Matehuala's soils, particularly in regions experiencing strong economic growth, to mitigate potential human health and ecological risks associated with heavy metal(loid) pollution.

Spatio-Temporal Analysis and Clinical-Epidemiological Characterization of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Maranhão, Brazil, from 2009 to 2020.

This study was carried out to identify the spatial distribution and characterize the clinical-epidemiological profile of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Maranhão state, Brazil, from 2009 to 2020. This descriptive ecological study collected sociodemographic and clinical data of VL cases from the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System database. A spatial autocorrelation analysis (Moran statistics) was performed. From 2009 to 2020, 5699 cases of VL were reported, with incidence of 6.5 cases/100,000 and prevalence of 7.1 cases/100,000. The temporal analysis showed a significant growth in incidence from 2009 to 2018, followed by a significant decrease between 2019 and 2020. The Moran map shows hotspots of high values in the central-west and central-east regions, and hotspots of low values in the northern region of Maranhão. The profile of patients affected by VL comprises males (OR = 1.8; IC95% = 1.72-1.92), aged under 14 years, brown, and with incomplete elementary schooling. The main symptoms reported were fever, fatigue, and edema. The main diagnostic method was laboratory. The mortality rate was 6.8%, and co-infection with HIV was reported by 8.5% of patients. The results of this study indicated the increase in incidence and lethality, as well as the expansion, of leishmaniasis in the state of Maranhão.

Temporal trends and spatial clusters of high risk for maternal death due to COVID-19 pre and during COVID-19 vaccination in Brazil: a national population-based ecological study.

OBJECTIVE: This study comprehensively analyzed the temporal and spatial dynamics of COVID-19 cases and deaths within the obstetric population in Brazil, comparing the periods before and during mass COVID-19 vaccination. We explored the trends and geographical patterns of COVID-19 cases and maternal deaths over time. We also examined their correlation with the SARS-CoV-2 variant circulating and the social determinants of health. STUDY DESIGN: This is a nationwide population-based ecological study. METHODS: We obtained data on COVID-19 cases, deaths, socioeconomic status, and vulnerability information for Brazil's 5570 municipalities for both the pre-COVID-19 vaccination and COVID-19 vaccination periods. A Bayesian model was used to mitigate indicator fluctuations. The spatial correlation of maternal cases and fatalities with socioeconomic and vulnerability indicators was assessed using bivariate Moran. RESULTS: From March 2020 to June 2023, a total of 23,823 cases and 1991 maternal fatalities were recorded among pregnant and postpartum women. The temporal trends in maternal incidence and mortality rates fluctuated over the study period, largely influenced by widespread COVID-19 vaccination and the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant. There was a significant reduction in maternal mortality due to COVID-19 following the introduction of vaccination. The geographical distribution of COVID-19 cases and maternal deaths exhibited marked heterogeneity in both periods, with distinct spatial clusters predominantly observed in the North, Northeast, and Central West regions. Municipalities with the highest Human Development Index reported the highest incidence rates, while those with the highest levels of social vulnerability exhibited elevated mortality and fatality rates. CONCLUSION: Despite the circulation of highly transmissible variants of concern, maternal mortality due to COVID-19 was significantly reduced following the mass vaccination. There was a heterogeneous distribution of cases and fatalities in both periods (before and during mass vaccination). Smaller municipalities and those grappling with social vulnerability issues experienced the highest rates of maternal mortality and fatalities.

The Biodiversity of Blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae) in Brazil: New Distribution Records and Updated Checklist.

Currently, according to the most recent Simuliidae World Inventory, there are 97 valid species of blackflies recorded in Brazil, some of which act as vectors for zoonoses such as human onchocerciasis and mansonellosis in the northern and central-western regions of the country. Meanwhile, other species can cause serious socioeconomic problems due to the nuisance of female bites. Therefore, accurate knowledge of their distribution is crucial for the development and implementation of successful preventive strategies. With this aim, this study reviewed and updated the geographical distribution of the blackfly fauna throughout the Brazilian states. The data were compiled from three main sources: geographic information of material deposited at the Simuliidae Collection of the Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (CSIOC-IOC), a comprehensive review of scientific literature, and online biodiversity databases. We present a total of 71 new distribution records of 38 different Simuliidae species for 24 Brazilian states. Neither of these sets of records has been included in the Simuliidae World Inventory. Consequently, an updated Brazilian Simuliidae checklist, comprising a total of 98 valid species, is presented, highlighting these new distribution records. We also discuss six dubious records for the country and the implications of this updated data for the Simuliidae species richness of Brazil, its states, and biomes. This information is essential for future studies in the taxonomy, systematics, and biogeography of this family in Brazil.

Trends in Mercury Contamination Distribution among Human and Animal Populations in the Amazon Region.

Mercury contamination in the Amazon arising from both natural sources and intensive mining activities in the region is a significant public health concern. This metal is used to separate Au from sediments. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the impact of mining on mercury contamination in the animal and human populations of the Amazon. This overall objective was pursued through a systematic review of the existing literature to assess the impact of Hg and identify gaps in geographic coverage arising from this assessment. Herein, we employed PECO and PRISMA-ScR protocols to select articles published between 2017 and 2023 based on projected points on a map within the biogeographic boundaries of the Amazon. We found that mercury concentrations increase with trophic levels, reaching high values of 3.7 µg/g in the muscles of predatory fish and 34.9 µg/g in human hair. The mean level of mercury in human hair in the whole (Amazon) region exceeds 6 µg/g, surpassing tolerance levels. Although mining regions show high concentrations of Hg, the highest incidence was observed among populations with fish-based diets. It was concluded that continuous research and monitoring of fish in the region are required in order to accurately assess the risk associated with Hg contamination, especially since fish are the main source of protein in this region.

Scorpion envenomation in Brazil and its relationship with the social determinants of health: A population-based ecological study.

This study comprehensively analyzed cases of scorpion envenomation in Brazil, exploring the temporal trends and geographic patterns of such incidents between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022. Simultaneously, we assessed the correlation between scorpion envenomation and social determinants of health and social vulnerability. We conducted a population-based ecological study, gathering information on the number of scorpion envenomation cases in Brazil, as well as socioeconomic data and social vulnerability indicators across the 5,570 Brazilian municipalities. The season-trend model, based on the classical additive decomposition method, informed estimations of scorpion envenomation variations over time. The spatial correlation of scorpion envenomation with socioeconomic and vulnerability indicators was assessed using the Bivariate Moran's I. A total of 1,343,224 cases of scorpion envenomation were recorded in Brazil from Jan 2012 to Dec 2022. A single increasing time trend was observed for the entire country for this period (APC 8.94, P < 0.001). The seasonal analysis was significant for Brazil as a whole and all regions (p < 0.001), with peaks evident between October and November. The spatial distribution of cases was heterogeneous, with spatial clusters concentrated in the high-risk Southeast and Northeast regions. There was a high incidence of scorpion envenomation in municipalities facing social vulnerability, and, paradoxically, in those with better sanitation and waste collection. Our study revealed a heterogeneous geographical distribution of scorpion accidents in Brazil. Municipalities with higher social vulnerability exhibited a high incidence of scorpion envenomation.

Population survey of Holothuria (Halodeima) grisea (Aspidochirotida: Holothuriidae) at its limit of geographic distribution in the Western South Atlantic / Estudio poblacional de Holothuria (Halodeima) grisea (Aspidochirotida: Holothuriidae) en su límite de distribución geográfica en el Atlántico Sur Occidental

Abstract Introduction: The sea cucumber Holothuria (Halodeima) grisea Selenka, 1867 is a common echinoderm in intertidal regions along the Brazilian coast, which recently became the focus of unreported and unregulated fisheries. This study was carried out in sandy-rocky substrates at Armação do Itapocoroy, Penha, Santa Catarina (26o47' S; 48o36' W), near its southern limit of geographic distribution. Objective: To determine the densities (individuals*m-2) of Holothuria (H.) grisea within a spatial-temporal perspective as well as to determine biometric and growth characteristics of the population. Methods: Two-meter wide transects perpendicular to the coastline were carried out in winter and spring 2019 and in summer and spring 2020, in periods of spring low-tides. In each sampling occasion the total number of specimens of H. grisea were determined, and a group of 90 organisms was submitted to in situ biometrics (weight, length and width), and immediately returned alive to their habitat. Results: The densities of H. (H.) grisea were significantly higher in the subtidal sector and lower in the upper intertidal sector with no indication of significant differences among sampling campaigns. Depth was the primary factor explaining the observed density patterns and rugosity of the substrate was secondary but also important. The body length ranged from 5.2 to 22.5 cm, whereas the weight varied from 6.0 to 230 g. The mean and modal lengths were 12.54 and 13 cm, respectively. Approximately 75 % of the population sampled was between 10 and 14 cm and the average weight was 60 g. Estimates from von Bertalanffy growth function indicate that the youngest sea cucumber was one year-old, and the oldest had approximately two and a half years. Conclusions: This is the first study to determine biometric parameters for H. (H.) grisea in southern Brazil and the first one to estimate growth and age estimates for a wild population of this species. The densities recorded in the present study were lower than those previously reported for this region, suggesting anthropic influence.

Resumen Introducción: El pepino de mar Holothuria (Halodeima) grisea Selenka, 1867 es un equinodermo común en las regiones intermareales a lo largo de la costa brasileña, que recientemente se convirtió en foco de pesquerías no declaradas y no reguladas. Este estudio se realizó en sustratos arenosos-rocosos en Armação do Itapocoroy, Penha, Santa Catarina (26o47' S; 48o36' W), cerca del límite sur de su distribución geográfica. Objetivo: Determinar las densidades (individuos*m-2) de Holothuria (H.) grisea dentro de una perspectiva espacio-temporal así como determinar las características biométricas y de crecimiento de la población. Métodos: Se realizaron transectos de dos metros de ancho perpendiculares a la línea de costa en invierno y primavera de 2019 y en verano y primavera de 2020, en periodos de bajamar sicigia. En cada ocasión de muestreo se determinó el número total de especímenes de H. (H.) grisea, y se sometió un grupo de 90 organismos a biometría in situ (peso, longitud y ancho), e inmediatamente se los devolvieron vivos a su hábitat. Resultados: Las densidades de H. (H.) grisea fueron significativamente más altas en el sector submareal y más bajas en el sector intermareal superior sin indicios de diferencias significativas entre las campañas de muestreo. La profundidad fue el factor principal que explica los patrones de densidad observados y la rugosidad del sustrato fue secundaria pero también importante. La longitud del cuerpo varió de 5.2 a 22.5 cm, mientras que el peso varió de 6.0 a 230 g. Las longitudes media y modal fueron 12.54 y 13 cm, respectivamente. Aproximadamente el 75 % de la población muestreada midió entre 10 y 14 cm y el peso promedio fue de 60 g. Estimados de la función de crecimiento de von Bertalanffy indican que el ejemplar más joven presentaba un año de edad, mientras el más viejo presentaba cerca de dos años y medio. Conclusiones: Este es el primer estudio que determina parámetros biométricos para una población de H. (H.) grisea en el sur de Brasil y el primero en estimar el crecimiento y edades para una población salvaje de esta especie. Las densidades registradas en el presente estudio fueron inferiores a las reportadas previamente para esta región sugiriendo la ocurrencia de influencia antrópica.

Prevalence and Spatial Autocorrelation of Tuberculosis in Indigenous People in Brazil, 2002-2022.

Tuberculosis (TB) among indigenous populations in Brazil poses a multifaceted public health challenge influenced by geographical, social, institutional, economic, and cultural factors. This study scrutinized the prevalence and spatial distribution of TB among Brazilian indigenous communities from 2002 to 2022. Employing a cross-sectional and descriptive approach, we analyzed data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and conducted spatial autocorrelation tests to identify clusters and outliers. The findings uncovered substantial disparities in TB prevalence between the North and Central-West regions, in contrast to the South and Southeast, mirroring social, economic, and cultural inequalities in Brazil. It is concluded that public health strategies should not only consider the epidemiological aspects of TB but also encompass social and environmental determinants, notably the impact of climate change. Holistic and context-sensitive approaches are imperative for addressing TB within indigenous communities, underscoring the need for adaptive and culturally sensitive interventions in the public health landscape.

Spatiotemporal variation of dissolved oxygen concentration in the northern Gulf of Mexico during the period of 1992-2017.

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration is an important index of ocean systems. In this study, spatiotemporal variations in DO were analyzed in the northern Gulf of Mexico (NGM) for the period of 1992-2017. Temporal variation involves annual, monthly, and seasonal variations. The spatial scope ranged from the sea surface to 1000 m depth. The results show that: (1) DO decreased from 1992 to 2017 with a brief increase; (2) clear seasonal variation characteristics of DO were presented, and the seasonal average DO was relatively low in summer; (3) the monthly average trends of sea surface DO in different years were relatively consistent; and (4) with increasing water depth from seawater surface to 1000 m, the average DO of 1992 to 2017 tended to decrease and then increase. The results aim at shedding some light on the assessment of DO change in the NGM over the past quarter century.

Triatomine vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi in an endemic area for Chagas disease in Northeast Brazil

ABSTRACT Background: We assessed the distribution of triatomines in an endemic area for Chagas disease. Methods: This retrospective study used secondary data extracted from the Official System of the National Chagas Disease Control Program (Sistema Oficial do Programa Nacional de Controle da Doença de Chagas - SisPCDCh). Results: A total of 7,257 (725.7 ± 221.7 per year) specimens were collected from 2013 to 2022. Most of them (6,792; 93.6%) were collected in the intradomicile and 465 (6.4%) in the peridomicile. A total of 513 (7.1%) triatomines tested positive for the presence of trypomastigote forms, similar to Trypanosoma cruzi. Conclusions: The spatial analysis revealed a heterogeneous distribution of triatomines across different municipalities.

Characterization of cases and epidemiological and operational indicators of leprosy: analysis of time series and spatial distribution, Piauí state, Brazil, 2007-2021 / Caracterización de casos e indicadores epidemiológicos y operativos de la lepra: análisis de series temporales y distribución espacial, Piauí, Brasil, 20072021 / Caracterização de casos e indicadores epidemiológicos e operacionais da hanseníase: análise de séries temporais e distribuição espacial, Piauí, 2007-2021

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze epidemiological characteristics, temporal trends and spatial distribution of leprosy cases and indicators in the state of Piauí, 2007-2021. Methods This was an ecological time-series study using data from the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System, describing the spatial distribution and the temporal trend of leprosy using Prais-Winsten regression. Results A total of 17,075 new cases of leprosy were reported. There was a falling trend in the overall detection rate [annual percentage change (APC) = -6.3; 95%CI -8.1;-4.5)], detection in children under 15 years of age (APC = -8,6; 95%CI -12,7;-4,3) and detection of cases with grade 2 physical disability (APC = -4,4; 95%CI -7,0;-1,8). There was a rising trend in the proportion of multibacillary cases. Spatial distribution of the average detection rate identified hyperendemic areas in the Carnaubais, Entre Rios, Vale dos Rios Piauí e Itaueiras regions. Conclusion High leprosy detection rates were found, despite the falling trend of indicators, except the proportion of multibacillary cases.

RESUMEN Objetivo Analizar características epidemiológicas, tendencias temporales, distribución espacial de casos y indicadores de lepra en el estado de Piauí, 2007-2021. Métodos Estudio ecológico de series temporales con datos del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Notificación que describen la distribución espacial y la tendencia temporal de la lepra mediante la regresión de Prais-Winsten. Resultados Se notificaron 17.075 nuevos casos de lepra. Hubo tendencia decreciente en las tasas de detección general [variación porcentual anual (VPA) = -6,3; IC95% -8,1; -4,5], detección en menores de 15 años (VPA = -8,6; IC95% -12,7; -4,3), y detección de casos con discapacidad física grado 2 (VPA = -4,4; IC95%-7,0; -1,8). Hubo una tendencia creciente en la proporción de casos multibacilares. La distribución espacial de la tasa promedio de detección identificó áreas hiperendémicas en las regiones de Carnaubais, Entre Rios, Vale dos Rios Piauí y Itaueiras. Conclusión Se observaron altas tasas de detección de lepra, a pesar de la tendencia decreciente de los indicadores, excepto la proporción de casos multibacilares

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar características epidemiológicas, tendência temporal, distribuição espacial de casos e indicadores da hanseníase no estado do Piauí, 2007-2021. Métodos Estudo ecológico de séries temporais com dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação, descrevendo a distribuição espacial e a tendência temporal da hanseníase pela regressão de Prais-Winsten. Resultados Foram notificados 17.075 novos casos de hanseníase. A distribuição espacial da taxa média de detecção identificou áreas hiperendêmicas nas regiões Carnaubais, Entre Rios, Vale dos Rios Piauí e Itaueiras. Verificou-se tendência decrescente nas taxas de detecção geral [variação percentual anual (VPA) = -6,3; IC95% -8,1;-4,5], de detecção em menores de 15 anos (VPA = -8,6; IC95%12,7;-4,3) e de detecção de casos com grau 2 de incapacidade física (VPA = -4,4; IC95%-7,0;1,8), e tendência crescente na proporção de casos multibacilares. Conclusão Observaram-se elevadas taxas de detecção de hanseníase, apesar da tendência decrescente dos indicadores, exceto a proporção de casos multibacilares.

Evaluation of water-soluble dyes to mark internal structures of Lepidoptera via larval feeding

ABSTRACT Understanding aspects of insect ecology is a key component for the applicability of control methods or pest resistance management. For instance, the comprehension of insect dispersal is crucial to determining insect gene flow and the maximum distance between refuge areas in Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) crops. But, for such studies, insects need to be marked prior to release. Seeking to refine the technique of dispersion studies of the genetic material of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), this study aimed to determine the efficiency of water-soluble dyes for the internal marking of S. frugiperda immatures and adults via larval feeding, with emphasis on marking the spermatophore. Rhodamine B, Methylene Blue, Ponceau, Coomassie, and Eosin-Nigrosin were added to the larval artificial diet at concentrations of 0, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 ppm. Mortality and duration of the larval stage as well as the efficiency of marking internal structures of larvae and adults were evaluated. Rhodamine B and Methylene Blue increased the duration of the larval period, but the former caused higher mortality. The staining of the gut, hemolymph, and imaginal discs, in the larval phase, was observed for Rhodamine B, Methylene Blue, and Coomassie dyes. However, none of the dyes were efficient for marking spermatophores. Thus, the addition of these water-soluble dyes to the larval diet of S. frugiperda can mark internal structures of the larva, but not the adult. Therefore, these dyes have limited application once they may be used only for marking larvae.

Using Regional Sero-Epidemiology SARS-CoV-2 Anti-S Antibodies in the Dominican Republic to Inform Targeted Public Health Response.

Incidence of COVID-19 has been associated with sociodemographic factors. We investigated variations in SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence at sub-national levels in the Dominican Republic and assessed potential factors influencing variation in regional-level seroprevalence. Data were collected in a three-stage cross-sectional national serosurvey from June to October 2021. Seroprevalence of antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (anti-S) was estimated and adjusted for selection probability, age, and sex. Multilevel logistic regression was used to estimate the effect of covariates on seropositivity for anti-S and correlates of 80% protection (PT80) against symptomatic infection for the ancestral and Delta strains. A total of 6683 participants from 134 clusters in all 10 regions were enrolled. Anti-S, PT80 for the ancestral and Delta strains odds ratio varied across regions, Enriquillo presented significant higher odds for all outcomes compared with Yuma. Compared to being unvaccinated, receiving ≥2 doses of COVID-19 vaccine was associated with a significantly higher odds of anti-S positivity (OR 85.94, [10.95-674.33]) and PT80 for the ancestral (OR 4.78, [2.15-10.62]) and Delta strains (OR 3.08, [1.57-9.65]) nationally and also for each region. Our results can help inform regional-level public health response, such as strategies to increase vaccination coverage in areas with low population immunity against currently circulating strains.

A new long term gridded daily precipitation dataset at high-resolution for Cuba (CubaPrec1).

The paper presents a high-resolution (-3km) gridded dataset for daily precipitation across Cuba for 1961-2008, called CubaPrec1. The dataset was built using the information from the data series of 630 stations from the network operated by the National Institute of Water Resources. The original station data series were quality controlled using a spatial coherence process of the data, and the missing values were estimated on each day and location independently. Using the filled data series, a grid of 3 × 3 km spatial resolution was constructed by estimating daily precipitation and their corresponding uncertainties at each grid box. This new product represents a precise spatiotemporal distribution of precipitation in Cuba and provides a useful baseline for future studies in hydrology, climatology, and meteorology. The data collection described is available on zenodo: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7847844.

The problem of conserving an ecosystem that has not been completely delineated and mapped: the case of the Cocais Palm Forest.

Land cover changes threaten biodiversity and alter the geographic distribution of forests worldwide. Studies on this topic are important to establish conservation strategies and public policies. However, different studies may propose different spatial representations due to differences when identifying, classifying, and/or mapping the same vegetation formation, as observed for the Cocais Forest region. This palm-dominated ecosystem predominates the Brazilian mid-north region in an ecotone region with 3 of the 6 Brazilian biomes. In this study, we conducted a literature review of studies that delineated and mapped the Cocais Forest, aiming to compare different mapped regions and to establish a new distribution map integrating these spatial data. We found seven sources that revealed spatial divergences in identifying the spatial distribution of Cocais Forest, including its characteristics in terms of size and shape, which could affect the conservation, socioeconomic, and cultural policies and studies carried out on this emblematic vegetation formation and influence area. The delineation proposed by de Sousa Nascimento and Lima (Revista de Políticas Públicas 189-192, 2016) encompassed the largest area. In addition, there was a lack of consensus regarding the nomenclature for this ecosystem, and few works offered a detailed description of the mapping process. Despite the different spatial distributions found for the Cocais Forest, we succeeded in establishing a common area by overlapping individual maps, resulting in the identification of a core region exclusive located in the State of Maranhão.

The Use of Spatial Analysis in Syphilis-Related Research: Protocol for a Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Latin America, Africa, and Asia have high incidences of syphilis. New approaches are needed to understand and reduce disease transmissibility. In health care, spatial analysis is important to map diseases and understand their epidemiologic aspects. OBJECTIVE: The proposed scoping review will identify and map the use of spatial analysis as a tool for syphilis-related research in health care. METHODS: This protocol was based on the Joanna Briggs Institute manual, guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). We will conduct searches in Embase; Lilacs, via the Virtual Health Library (Biblioteca Virtual en Salud; BVS), in Portuguese and English; Medline/PubMed; Web of Science; Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL); and Scopus. Gray literature will be searched for in Google Scholar, the Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations, the Catalog of Theses and Dissertations of the Coordination of Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior; CAPES), Open Access Theses and Dissertations, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, and the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations. The main research question is "How has spatial analysis been used in syphilis-related research in health care?" Studies are included if they have the full text available, address syphilis, and use geographic information systems software and spatial analysis techniques, regardless of sample characteristics or size. Studies published as research articles, theses, dissertations, and government documents will also be considered, with no location, time, or language restrictions. Data will be extracted using a spreadsheet adapted from the Joanna Briggs Institute. Quantitative and qualitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and a thematic analysis, respectively. RESULTS: The results will be presented according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and will summarize the use of spatial analysis in syphilis-related research in health care in countries with different contexts, factors associated with spatial cluster formation, population health impacts, contributions to health systems, challenges, limitations, and possible research gaps. The results will guide future research and may be useful for health and safety professionals, managers, public policy makers, the general population, the academic community, and health professionals who work directly with people with syphilis. Data collection is projected to start in June 2023 and end in July 2023. Data analysis is scheduled to take place in August and September 2023. We expect to publish results in the final months of 2023. CONCLUSIONS: The review may reveal where syphilis incidence has the highest incidence, which countries most use spatial analysis to study syphilis, and whether spatial analysis is applicable to syphilis in each continent, thereby contributing to discussion and knowledge dissemination on the use of spatial analysis as a tool for syphilis-related research in health care. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework CNVXE; https://osf.io/cnvxe. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/43243.

Fall-Related Hospitalizations in Elderly People: Temporal Trend and Spatial Distribution in Brazil.

This study aims to identify the temporal variation and the spatial dependence structure of the hospitalization rate for falls in the elderly residing in Brazil in the period between 2010 and 2021. This ecological study employs secondary data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health about the fall-related hospitalization of people aged 60 years old and over. A time-series analysis was carried out, employing the joinpoint model. For the spatial analysis, the Moran autocorrelation technique was employed. In Brazil, between 2010 and 2021, there were 1,270,341 hospitalizations for falls recorded among the elderly in the Brazilian Hospitalization System. There was a continuous upward trend between 2010 and 2019 for all age groups, female and male, and all Brazilian regions. The trend stabilized between 2019 to 2021. The North and Northeast regions had faster upward trends among all Brazilian regions, and there was also a faster upward trend among women compared to men. A high-high pattern in hospitalization incidence was noticed from 2011 to 2019 in the states of São Paulo, Minhas Gerais, Paraná, and Mato Grosso do Sul. The results of this study provide subsidies for Brazilian health authorities to implement more efficient public policies to improve the quality of life of elderly people.

Spatial Variability of External Egg Quality in Vertical Naturally Ventilated Caged Aviaries.

External egg quality is an essential parameter of egg production as it relates directly to economic losses. This study evaluated the spatial variability of external egg quality in five naturally ventilated caged vertical aviaries. Differences caused by bird age and thermal and luminous variability within aviaries during winter and summer were analyzed. Data on aviary air temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, and external egg quality were collected at evenly distributed points along the aviary length within three levels of cages. The experimental design was completely randomized in a factorial scheme. In the summer, the highest air temperature and lowest relative humidity were found in central cages, mainly in upper center cages; hens produced eggs with a lower weight and shape index in this area. Similar results were obtained in the winter. In the summer, eggs with lower shell weight and thickness were also produced by hens housed in the central cages, but in the winter, the opposite result was obtained. This study of the spatial variability of external egg quality proved efficient in detecting areas within an aviary with poor quality eggs; improvements to design and management in these areas could help management improve production efficiency and contribute to a sustainable egg supply.

Large-scale spatiotemporal variations, sources, and risk assessment of banned OCPs and PAHs in suspended particulate matter from the Negro river, Argentina.

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) threaten the environment due to their wide environmental resistance. Environmental paradigms coexist along the Negro River (NR) in Argentina, South America, which flows to the sea below the latitude of 40o S; however, this is the first environmental assessment of OCPs and PAHs in water of the NR for more than 15 years. With 21 sampling sites covering a range of 600 km of river extension, we assessed 16 OCPs and 16 PAHs in suspended particulate material (SPM) with regard to their levels, seasonality, sources, and potential biological risk assessment. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detection, we found an overall mean value for Σ16 OCPs of 648.56 ng. g-1, d.w. Despite a ban spanning 25 years, an increasing trend of accumulation of hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) and endosulfan was shown in the lower valley. The ɑ-HCH/ɤ-HCH and ß-HCH/(ɑ + É¤)-HCH ratios indicated a prevalent usage of technical HCH over lindane and recent HCH inputs. The most abundant compound, α-endosulfan, averaged 141.64 ng. g-1, d.w. and DDX (Σ 4,4'-DDE, 4,4'-DDD, and 4,4'-DDT) averaged 99.98 ng. g-1, d.w. Winter OCP loads in the NR reflected the runoff of the heaviest pesticide application period. We estimated the total discharge of DDT into the Atlantic ocean was 96 g.day-1, added to 458 g of HCHs and 257 g of endosulfans (ɑ + ß + epoxide) adsorbed by the SPM. PAHs occurred widely along the river (38.83 ± 43.52 µg. g-1) and the highest levels coincided with locations with marked anthropogenic-related activity, such as petroleum/gas exploitation facilities. Risk quotient analysis showed a low risk posed by OCPs, but a high risk of potential effects on biota posed by the PAHs, highlighting the need for mitigation measures.