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n the Neotropics, the focus of apomictic studies predominantly centres on trees within the Brazilian savanna, characterized, mostly as sporophytic and facultative, associated with polyploidy and polyembryony. To enhance our understanding of the mechanisms governing apomixis and sexual reproduction in tropical herbaceous plants, we clarify the relationship between apomixis, chromosome counts, and polyembryony in the epiphytic orchid Zygopetalum mackayi, which forms a polyploid complex within rocky outcrops in both the Brazilian savanna and the Atlantic forest. To define embryo origins and describe megasporogenesis and megagametogenesis, we performed manual self-pollinations in first-day flowers of cultivated plants, considering all three cytotypes (2x, 3x, 4x) of this species. Flowers and fruits at different stages were collected to describe the development and morphology of ovules and seeds considering sexual and apomictic processes. As self-pollination treatments resulted in high fruit abortion in diploids, we also examined pollen tube development in aborted flowers and fruits to search for putative anomalies. Megasporogenesis and megagametogenesis occur regularly in all cytotypes. Apomixis is facultative and sporophytic, and associated with polyploid cytotypes, while diploid individuals exclusively engage in sexual reproduction. Polyembryony is caused mainly by the production of adventitious embryos from nucellar cells of triploids and tetraploids, but also by the development of multiple archesporia in all cytotypes. Like other apomictic angiosperms within the Brazilian savanna, our findings demonstrate that apomixis in Z. mackayi relies on pollinators for seed production. We also consider the ecological implications of these apomictic patterns in Z. mackayi within the context of habitat loss and its dependence on pollinators.

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The rates of overweight and obesity around the world have increased in past years. The body's adipose tissue stimulates the antioxidant and oxidation imbalance capacity at the cellular level. This scenario favors an inflammatory low-grade systemic condition starting with insulin resistance, which in turn may involve diabetes mellitus type 2 and cognitive decline afterward. Neurological diseases have been correlated to senile age diseases over time. This scenario calls for a change in the incidence of obesity in the younger generation. An unhealthy dietary consumption together with sedentary habits might lead to poor gut absorption of nutrients. Several plants and foods have bioactive compounds that can reduce or inhibit radical scavengers, reactive oxygen species, and metal ion complexes that threaten the cerebral defense system. The bitter acids from hops (Humulus lupulus L.) have been demonstrated to have promising effects on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism improvement, reducing inflammatory responses through alpha acids, beta acids, and analogs action. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the bioactivity of hop bitter acids in obese and lean mice. For that, a dry hop extract (DHE) was obtained by applying carbon dioxide as the fluid of supercritical extraction. Afterward, seventy-eight male mice of the C57BL/6J strain were weighed and randomly distributed into six groups of 13 animals each according to the diet offered: (NO) normolipidic diet, (NO1) normolipidic diet containing 0.35% alpha acids, (NO2) normolipidic diet containing 3.5% alpha acids, (HP) hyperlipidic diet, (HP1) hyperlipidic diet containing 0.35% alpha acids, and (HP2) hyperlipidic diet containing 3.5% alpha acids. After applying the glycemic tolerance and insulin tolerance tests, a better stabilization of glycemia levels and weight gain among those animals fed with DHE (NO2 and HP2) were observed in comparison to the obese control group (HP) (p < 0.05). There was also an amelioration of antioxidant capacity observed by checking the enzymatic profile by SOD and an apparent mitigation of brain degeneration by checking GSK3ß and p-IRS1 proteins expression (p < 0.05). The y-maze cognitive test applied to highlight possible obesity-harmful animal brains did not indicate a statistical difference between the groups. Although the weekly dietary intake between the obese HP2 group (33.32 ± 4.11, p < 0.05) and control HP (42.3 ± 5.88, p < 0.05) was different. The bioactive compounds present in DHE have demonstrated relevant effects on glycemic control, insulin signaling, and the consequent modulatory action of the obesity-related markers with the brain's inflammatory progression.

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Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis, an emerging and often neglected zoonosis in South America, particularly Brazil. Felines, the only definitive hosts, excrete oocysts in their feces, potentially infecting all homeotherms. Domestic cats are primarily responsible for contaminating human environments with these oocysts. Monitoring their populations is therefore essential to ensure proper toxoplasmosis prophylaxis. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii and exposure factors in a population of owner cats in the city of João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. A total of 267 blood samples were collected from domestic cats aged between 1 and 15 years and tested with an immunofluorescence antibody test. The seroprevalence of antibodies against T. gondii was only 17.22% (46/267 individuals). This result therefore suggests a low contribution of domestic cats to T. gondii contamination of the urban environment. The cats' age and living environment were identified as risk factors for cat exposure to T. gondii.

Title: Géoépidémiologie, séroprévalence et facteurs associés à l'infection à Toxoplasma gondii chez les chats domiciliés à Paraíba (Brésil). Abstract: Toxoplasma gondii est le parasite responsable de la toxoplasmose, une zoonose émergente et souvent négligée en Amérique du Sud, notamment au Brésil. Les félins, seuls hôtes définitifs, excrètent des oocystes dans leurs selles, infectant potentiellement tous les homéothermes. Les chats domestiques sont les premiers responsables de la contamination des environnements humains avec ces oocystes. La surveillance de leurs populations est donc essentielle pour garantir une prophylaxie adéquate contre la toxoplasmose. Le but de cette étude était d'estimer la prévalence de T. gondii et les facteurs d'exposition dans une population de chats domestiques de la ville de João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brésil. Au total, 267 échantillons de sang ont été prélevés sur des chats domestiques âgés de 1 à 15 ans et testés avec un test d'immunofluorescence des anticorps. La séroprévalence des anticorps contre T. gondii n'était que de 17,22 % (46/267 individus). Ce résultat suggère donc une faible contribution des chats domestiques à la contamination du milieu urbain par T. gondii. L'âge et le milieu de vie des chats ont été identifiés comme facteurs de risque d'exposition du chat à T. gondii.

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In recent years, microbial carotenoids have emerged as a promising alternative for the pharmaceutical and food industries, particularly in promoting human health due to their potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Microbial carotenoids, particularly those produced by yeast, bacteria, and microalgae, are synthesized intracellularly, requiring the use of solvents for their effective extraction and recovery. The conventional use of toxic volatile organic solvents (VOCs) like hexane, petroleum ether, and dimethyl sulfoxide in the extraction of microbial carotenoids has been common. However, ongoing research is introducing innovative, non-toxic, environmentally friendly tailor-made solvents, such as ionic liquids (IL) and deep eutectic solvents (DES), indicating a new era of cleaner and biocompatible technologies. This review aims to highlight recent advancements in utilizing IL and DES for obtaining carotenoids from microorganisms. Additionally, we explore the utilization of in silico tools designed to determine the solubilities of microbial carotenoids in tailor-made DES and ILs. This presents a promising alternative for the scientific community, potentially reducing the need for extensive experimental screening of solvents for the recovery of microbial carotenoids in the separation processing. According to our expert perspective, both IL and DES exhibit a plethora of exceptional attributes for the recovery of microbial carotenoids. Nevertheless, the current employment of these solvents for recovery of carotenoids is restricted to scientific exploration, as their feasibility for practical application in industrial settings has yet to be conclusively demonstrated. KEY POINTS: • ILs and DES share many tailoring properties for the recovery of microbial carotenoids • The use of ILs and DES for microbial carotenoid extraction remains driven by scientific curiosity. • The economic feasibility of ILs and DES is yet to be demonstrated in industrial applications.

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ABSTRACT Due to the development of complications and the biocompatibility and scarcity of transplant donor tissues, artificial corneas, which can be used for the rehabilitation of optical functions, have been developed. The current study aimed to analyze the visual rehabilitation effects of the Boston type I keratoprosthesis, Boston type II keratoprosthesis, Aurolab keratoprosthesis, osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis, and tibial bone keratoprosthesis. Results showed that the Boston type I keratoprosthesis was the most effective for visual rehabilitation in patients with moist ocular surfaces. The Aurolab keratoprosthesis had a lower efficacy for visual rehabilitation. Nevertheless, it is still a viable option for individuals in economically restricted countries. In patients with dry eyes, the Boston type II keratoprosthesis was associated with the best visual rehabilitation. However, the final visual acuity of patients who received osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis and tibial bone keratoprosthesis implantation was not evaluated as the necessary information was not available.

RESUMO Em decorrência de complicações, da biocompatibilidade e da escassez de tecido doador para transplantes de córnea natural, foram elaboradas córneas artificiais que são potenciais para reabilitar funções ópticas. Nessa perspectiva, objetivou-se a análise da eficácia da reabilitação visual entre os implantes: Boston tipo I, Boston tipo II, Aurolab, osteo-odonto-ceratoprótese e ceratoprótese de Osso Tibial. De modo geral, a princípio observou-se uma tendência de melhoria da Best-corrected visual acuity em todos os tipos de lentes, mas considerável queda durante acompanhamento a longo prazo. O dispositivo com melhor reabilitação visual em pacientes com superfícies oculares úmidas é a Boston tipo I, seguida pela Aurolab, que é economicamente viável em países emergentes. Ao considerar pacientes com olhos secos, o implante de Boston tipo II apresenta maior reabilitação visual. Por fim, em virtude de não apresentarem dados equiparáveis, as lentes osteo-odonto-ceratoprótese e de osso tibial não puderam ser analisadas.

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O tecido ósseo, embora tenha a capacidade de regeneração, é limitado em sua eficácia diante de defeitos críticos que impedem a regeneração natural. Dessa forma, materiais como a hidroxiapatita (HA) têm sido considerados promissores na engenharia de tecido ósseo. Contudo, apesar de sua ampla utilização, a hidroxiapatita apresenta desvantagens, como a taxa de reabsorção e remodelação lenta. Em contraste, o biovidro 45S5 se destaca por sua biocompatibilidade, propriedades bioativas e degradabilidade. Este estudo objetivou avaliar o comportamento biológico in vitro e in vivo de grânulos de vidro bioativas de biovidro 45S5 fabricadas pelo método de fusão. Os biovidros foram caracterizados por meio da difração de raios X (DRX), espectroscopia de infravermelho por transformação de Fourier (FTIR), calorimetria diferencial de varredura (DSC) e espectrometria de emissão óptica com plasmas indutivamente acoplados (ICP OES). Em seguida, foi realizado o estudo in vitro, utilizando células osteoblásticas isoladas de fêmures de ratos, que foram submetidas a análise da morfologia celular (MEV), viabilidade celular (MTT), conteúdo de proteína total (PT), atividade de fosfatase alcalina (ALP) e formação de nódulos de mineralização. No estudo in vivo, foram realizados defeitos ósseos críticos de 7 mm na tíbia de coelhos da raça New Zealand, que foram divididos em dois grupos (n=6) de acordo com o material de preenchimento: hidroxiapatita comercial (HA) e biovidro 45S5 (BG45S5). Após 2, 8 e 12 semanas, os animais foram eutanasiados e as peças ósseas foram submetidas as análises histológicas e histomorfométricas. Os dados foram submetidos ao teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk (p=0,05) e quando normais realizamos o teste t de student e quando não normais realizamos o teste de Mann-Whitney. Os resultados dos testes físico-químicos mostraram sucesso na produção do novo biomaterial. Nos testes in vitro, observou-se que o grupo BG45S5 não apresentou citotoxicidade e mostrou-se promissor com diferença estatisticamente significante em relação ao grupo hidroxiapatita comercial (p=0.0263). Nos testes de PT, ALP e nódulos de mineralização, os grupos não apresentaram diferença estatística entre eles (p<0,05). Contudo, o grupo BG45S5 mostrou-se promissor em relação aos outros grupos. Na análise histológica, ambos os grupos apresentaram neoformação óssea nos defeitos após 2, 8 e 12 semanas. Na histomorfometria, observou-se que os grupos BG45S5 e HA apresentaram maior área de neoformação óssea em 12 semanas. Houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos no tempo de 2 semanas, com maior neoformação para o grupo BG45S5. Apesar dos resultados promissores do grupo BG45S5, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos (p<0,05) nos tempos de 8 e 12 semanas. Em resumo, os resultados evidenciaram o sucesso na produção do biomaterial sintético e o potencial do biomaterial BG45S5 como um material promissor para tratamento de defeitos ósseos críticos. (AU)

Bone tissue, despite its capacity of regeneration, is limited in its effectiveness when faced with critical defects that prevent natural regeneration. Therefore, materials such as hydroxyapatite (HA) have been considered promising in bone tissue engineering. However, despite its wide use, hydroxyapatite has disadvantages, such as slow resorption and remodeling rates. In contrast, 45S5 bioglass stands out for its biocompatibility, bioactive properties and degradability. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo biological behavior of bioactive 45S5 bioglass beads manufactured by the melt quenched method. The bioglasses were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Following this, an in vitro study was conducted using osteoblastic cells isolated from rat femurs, which were subjected to analysis of cell morphology (SEM), cell viability (MTT), total protein content (TP), alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and mineralization nodule formation. In the in vivo study, critical bone defects of 7 mm were created in the tibia of New Zealand rabbits, which were divided into two groups (n=6) according to the filling material: commercial hydroxyapatite (HA) and bioactive glass 45S5 (BG45S5). After 2, 8, and 12 weeks, the animals were euthanized and the bone pieces were subjected to histological and histomorphometric analyses. Data were subjected to the Shapiro-Wilk normality test (p=0.05), and when normal, we performed the Student's t-test, and when non-normal, we performed the Mann-Whitney test. The results of the physicochemical tests showed success in the production of the new biomaterial. In the in vitro tests, it was observed that the BG45S5 group did not present cytotoxicity and showed promise with a statistically significant difference compared to the commercial hydroxyapatite group (p=0.0263). In the TP, ALP and mineralization nodule tests, the groups showed no statistical difference between them (p<0.05). However, the BG45S5 group showed promise compared to the other groups. In the histological analysis, both groups showed new bone formation in the defects after 2, 8, and 12 weeks. In the histomorphometric analysis, it was observed that the BG45S5 and HA groups presented a larger area of new bone formation at 12 weeks. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups at 2 weeks, with greater new formation for the BG45S5 group. Despite the promising results of the BG45S5 group, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p<0.05) at 8 and 12 weeks. In summary, the results evidenced the successful production of the synthetic biomaterial and the potential of the BG45S5 bioglass as a promising material for treating critical bone defect.(AU)

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Background: Echinometra lucunter is a sea urchin commonly found on America's rocky shores. Its coelomic fluid contains molecules used for defense and biological processes, which may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of amyloid-based neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, that currently have few drug options available. Methods: In this study, we incubated E. lucunter coelomic fluid (ELCF) and fractions obtained by solid phase extraction in SH-SY5Y neuron-like cells to evaluate their effect on cell viability caused by the oligomerized amyloid peptide 42 (Aß42o). Moreover, the Aß42o was quantified after the incubation with ELCF fractions in the presence or not of cells, to evaluate if samples could cause amyloid peptide disaggregation. Antioxidant activity was determined in ELCF fractions, and cells were evaluated to check the oxidative stress after incubation with samples. The most relevant fraction was analyzed by mass spectrometry for identification of molecules. Results: ELCF and certain fractions could prevent and treat the reduction of cell viability caused by Aß42o in SH-SY5Y neuron-like cells. We found that one fraction (El50) reduced the oligomerized Aß42 and the oxidative stress caused by the amyloid peptide through its antioxidant molecules, which in turn reduced cell death. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that El50 comprises small molecules containing flavonoid antioxidants, such as phenylpyridazine and dihydroquercetin, and two peptides. Conclusion: Our results suggest that sea urchin molecules may interact with Aß42o and oxidative stress, preventing or treating neurotoxicity, which may be useful in treating dementia.

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of endoparasites in domestic cats (Felis catus) in the city of Sousa, state of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. A total of 207 samples of fresh feces were randomly collected from domestic and semi-domiciled cats. The samples were analyzed by simple centrifugation and centrifuge-flotation in sucrose solution for the diagnosis of helminth eggs and enteric protozoan oocysts and cysts. Epidemiological information was obtained to determine risk factors related to infections. Among the samples collected, 81.6% (169/207; 95% CI: 77.4-83.8) were positive for at least one parasite genus. Ancylostoma spp. was the most prevalent, at 67.1% (139/207), followed by Taenia spp. at 28.5% (59/207), and Spirometra spp. and Platynosomum sp., both at 17.3% (36/207). The variables associated with helminth infection were a historic lack of deworming (Odds ratio = 12.25) and the presence of dry fur (Odds ratio = 2.15). No risk factors were observed for enteric protozoa infection. This study demonstrated a high prevalence of endoparasites in domestic cats in the city of Sousa, state of Paraíba, and associated risk factors, thus establishing an overview of the main helminths and protozoa that affect cats in this region.

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The aim of the study was to evaluate the salivary metabolomic profile of patients who habitually smoke hookah and cigarettes. The groups consisted of 33 regular and exclusive hookah smokers, 26 regular and exclusive cigarette smokers, and 30 nonsmokers. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected for the measurement of salivary metabolites by gas chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The MetaboAnalyst software was used for statistical analysis and evaluation of biomarkers. 11 smoking salivary biomarkers were identified using the area under receiving-operator curver criterion and threshold of 0.9. Xylitol and octadecanol were higher in cigarette smokers compared to controls; arabitol and maltose were higher in controls compared to cigarette smokers; octadecanol and tyramine were higher in hookah smokers compared to controls; phenylalanine was higher in controls compared to hookah smokers; and fructose, isocitric acid, glucuronic acid, tryptamine, maltose, tyramine, and 3-hydroxyisolvaleric acid were higher in hookah smokers compared to cigarettes smokers. Conclusions: The evaluation of the salivary metabolome of hookah smokers, showing separation between the groups, especially between the control versus hookah groups and cigarette versus hookah groups, and it seems to demonstrate that the use of hookah tobacco is more damaging to health.

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Echinometra lucunter is a sea urchin commonly found on America’s rocky shores. Its coelomic fluid contains molecules used for defense and biological processes, which may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of amyloid-based neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, that currently have few drug options available. Methods: In this study, we incubated E. lucunter coelomic fluid (ELCF) and fractions obtained by solid phase extraction in SH-SY5Y neuron-like cells to evaluate their effect on cell viability caused by the oligomerized amyloid peptide 42 (Aβ42o). Moreover, the Aβ42o was quantified after the incubation with ELCF fractions in the presence or not of cells, to evaluate if samples could cause amyloid peptide disaggregation. Antioxidant activity was determined in ELCF fractions, and cells were evaluated to check the oxidative stress after incubation with samples. The most relevant fraction was analyzed by mass spectrometry for identification of molecules. Results: ELCF and certain fractions could prevent and treat the reduction of cell viability caused by Aβ42o in SH-SY5Y neuron-like cells. We found that one fraction (El50) reduced the oligomerized Aβ42 and the oxidative stress caused by the amyloid peptide through its antioxidant molecules, which in turn reduced cell death. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that El50 comprises small molecules containing flavonoid antioxidants, such as phenylpyridazine and dihydroquercetin, and two peptides. Conclusion: Our results suggest that sea urchin molecules may interact with Aβ42o and oxidative stress, preventing or treating neurotoxicity, which may be useful in treating dementia.

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Lung Cancer (LC) is an emergent disease widespread globally. Compared to other types of cancer, LC has one of the lowest survival rates (18%). As some risk factors associated with the development of lung carcinogenesis are still unavoidable, researchers have been trying to find efficient and safe alternatives that can help prevent LC or even attenuate its rapid evolution after diagnosis. Studies with natural products promise to offer biological effects against several types of cancers, including LC. The uncountable types of plant matrices dispersed in nature, or even their extracts, contain a powerful composition of bioactive compounds with promising biological effects on LC. The biomes in Brazil are examples of regions with a great biodiversity of bioactive compounds-rich fruits. Therefore, this review aimed to present the potential anticancer effect of Brazilian native fruits, their fractions, and by-products on LC through the elucidation of the main molecular mechanisms involved. The Brazilian plant matrices discussed here (açaí, achiote, araticum, camu camu, cocoa, jaboticaba, genipap, guarana, and pequi) showed promising evidence by inducing cellular apoptosis, reducing cancer cell viability and tumor growth, and regulating cell cycle.

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Dentre as hemoparasitoses com maior frequência de transmissão por carrapatos pode-se destacar a Erliquiose, a Hepatozoonose, a Anaplasmose e a Babesiose. A coinfecção por esses agentes são frequentes na rotina clínica; no entanto, poucas são as descrições sobre a ocorrência simultânea desses agentes em hemogramas. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar os casos de quatro cães diagnosticados com coinfecção por Ehrlichia spp. e Hepatozoon canis, os quais foram atendidos no Hospital Veterinário Adílio Santos de Azevedo (HV-ASA) do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia da Paraíba (IFPB), campus Sousa. Durante a avaliação clínica, relatou-se que os pacientes apresentavam, de maneira em comum, oligodipsia e hiporexia, além de histórico de presença de carrapatos. Em seguida, foram realizados hemogramas, que revelaram que todos os animais apresentavam anemia leve a moderada. Além disso, notou-se que o animal 1 estava com trombocitopenia e os animais 2 e 3, neutrofilia. Na pesquisa de hemoparasitas em esfregaço sanguíneo, observou-se coinfecção por H. canis e E. spp. nos quatro animais. Desta forma, este relato demonstrou a importância do uso do hemograma e da pesquisa dos agentes causadores das hemoparasitoses, através do esfregaço sanguíneo. Ressalte-se que o esfregaço sanguíneo, embora seja um método inespecífico e de baixa sensibilidade, pode e deve ser adotado como rotina, por ser uma técnica simples, rápida, barata, pouco invasiva e de diagnóstico definitivo.

Among the hemoparasitoses with the highest frequency of transmission by ticks, ehrlichiosis, hepatozoonosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis may be highlighted. The coinfection with these agents is frequent in clinical routine; however, there are few descriptions of the simultaneous occurrence of these agents in blood counts. Therefore, this work aimed to report the cases of four dogs diagnosed with Ehrlichia spp. and Hepatozoon canis, which were treated at the Adílio Santos de Azevedo Veterinary Hospital (HV-ASA), of the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Paraíba (IFPB), Sousa campus. During the clinical evaluation, it was reported that the patients had oligodipsia and hyporexia in common, in addition to a history of tick presence. Then, blood counts were performed, which revealed that all animals had mild to moderate anemia. In addition, it was noted that animal 1 had thrombocytopenia and animals 2 and 3 had neutrophilia. In the investigation of hemoparasites in blood smears, co-infection with H. canis and E. spp. was observed in the four animals. Thus, this report demonstrated the importance of using the blood count and researching the causative agents of hemoparasitosis, through the blood smear. It should be noted that the blood smear, although it is a non-specific and low-sensitivity method, can and should be adopted as a routine, as it is a simple, fast, inexpensive, minimally invasive, and definitive diagnostic technique.

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Due to the development of complications and the biocompatibility and scarcity of transplant donor tissues, artificial corneas, which can be used for the rehabilitation of optical functions, have been developed. The current study aimed to analyze the visual rehabilitation effects of the Boston type I keratoprosthesis, Boston type II keratoprosthesis, Aurolab keratoprosthesis, osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis, and tibial bone keratoprosthesis. Results showed that the Boston type I keratoprosthesis was the most effective for visual rehabilitation in patients with moist ocular surfaces. The Aurolab keratoprosthesis had a lower efficacy for visual rehabilitation. Nevertheless, it is still a viable option for individuals in economically restricted countries. In patients with dry eyes, the Boston type II keratoprosthesis was associated with the best visual rehabilitation. However, the final visual acuity of patients who received osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis and tibial bone keratoprosthesis implantation was not evaluated as the necessary information was not available.

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Abstract Objective Female sterilization is a surgical procedure that aims women to permanently stop the use of conception. The benefits, risks and cost-effectiveness are important issues. The purpose of this study was comparing the applicability, complications and efficacy of salpingectomy versus electrocoagulation and tubal occlusion by laparoscopy in the Ambulatory Surgery Unit. Methods We performed a retrospective and observational study that included women undergoing laparoscopic sterilization procedures at our Ambulatory Surgery Unit, during three years. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, applying the Fisher exact test, the Mann-Whitney test, and Linear Regression. Results Two hundred and twenty-one laparoscopic surgical procedures were performed, including 79 (35.7%) bilateral total salpingectomies and 142 (64.3%) electrocoagulation and bilateral tubal occlusion procedures. The majority of the procedures were performed by a resident (n = 162; 73.3%), with 40% (n = 33) of salpingectomies. The surgical time, independently the type of surgeon, was significantly shorter in the tubal occlusion (42.2 vs. 52.7 min, p < 0.001). Safety and efficacy endpoints were not significantly different between the two groups, with a case of pregnancy in tubal occlusion group. Conclusion Salpingectomy is a safe and effective alternative comparing with electrocoagulation and tubal occlusion.

Resumo Objetivo A esterilização feminina é um procedimento cirúrgico que auxilia as mulheres na paragem permanente de utilização de métodos contraceptivos. Os objetivos desde estudo foram comparar a aplicabilidade, complicações e eficácia da salpingectomia vs. eletrocoagulação e secção tubar na esterilização feminina em regime de ambulatório. Métodos Realizou-se um estudo retrospectivo e observacional que incluiu mulheres submetidas a procedimentos de esterilização por laparoscopia no Serviço de Cirurgia de Ambulatório da ULSAM, durante três anos. A análise estatística foi realizada com recurso ao SPSS, aplicando o teste exato de Fisher, o teste de Mann-Whitney e Regressão Linear. Resultados Foram realizados 221 procedimentos cirúrgicos por laparoscopia, incluindo 79 (35,7%) salpingectomias totais bilaterais e 142 (64,3%) procedimentos por eletrocoagulação e secção tubar bilateral. A maioria dos procedimentos foram realizados por um interno de formação específica (n = 162; 73,3%), com 40% (n = 33) de salpingectomias. O tempo operatório foi significativamente inferior no grupo da eletrocoagulação (42,2 vs. 52,7 min, p < 0,001). Em relação à segurança e à eficácia não se observaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os dois grupos, com um caso de gravidez após eletrocoagulação e secção tubar. Conclusão A salpingectomia é uma alternativa segura e com alta taxa de eficácia quando comparada com eletrocoagulação e secção tubar.

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OBJECTIVE: Female sterilization is a surgical procedure that aims women to permanently stop the use of conception. The benefits, risks and cost-effectiveness are important issues. The purpose of this study was comparing the applicability, complications and efficacy of salpingectomy versus electrocoagulation and tubal occlusion by laparoscopy in the Ambulatory Surgery Unit. METHODS: We performed a retrospective and observational study that included women undergoing laparoscopic sterilization procedures at our Ambulatory Surgery Unit, during three years. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, applying the Fisher exact test, the Mann-Whitney test, and Linear Regression. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty-one laparoscopic surgical procedures were performed, including 79 (35.7%) bilateral total salpingectomies and 142 (64.3%) electrocoagulation and bilateral tubal occlusion procedures. The majority of the procedures were performed by a resident (n = 162; 73.3%), with 40% (n = 33) of salpingectomies. The surgical time, independently the type of surgeon, was significantly shorter in the tubal occlusion (42.2 vs. 52.7 min, p < 0.001). Safety and efficacy endpoints were not significantly different between the two groups, with a case of pregnancy in tubal occlusion group. CONCLUSION: Salpingectomy is a safe and effective alternative comparing with electrocoagulation and tubal occlusion.

OBJETIVO: A esterilização feminina é um procedimento cirúrgico que auxilia as mulheres na paragem permanente de utilização de métodos contraceptivos. Os objetivos desde estudo foram comparar a aplicabilidade, complicações e eficácia da salpingectomia vs. eletrocoagulação e secção tubar na esterilização feminina em regime de ambulatório. MéTODOS: Realizou-se um estudo retrospectivo e observacional que incluiu mulheres submetidas a procedimentos de esterilização por laparoscopia no Serviço de Cirurgia de Ambulatório da ULSAM, durante três anos. A análise estatística foi realizada com recurso ao SPSS, aplicando o teste exato de Fisher, o teste de Mann-Whitney e Regressão Linear. RESULTADOS: Foram realizados 221 procedimentos cirúrgicos por laparoscopia, incluindo 79 (35,7%) salpingectomias totais bilaterais e 142 (64,3%) procedimentos por eletrocoagulação e secção tubar bilateral. A maioria dos procedimentos foram realizados por um interno de formação específica (n = 162; 73,3%), com 40% (n = 33) de salpingectomias. O tempo operatório foi significativamente inferior no grupo da eletrocoagulação (42,2 vs. 52,7 min, p < 0,001). Em relação à segurança e à eficácia não se observaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os dois grupos, com um caso de gravidez após eletrocoagulação e secção tubar. CONCLUSãO: A salpingectomia é uma alternativa segura e com alta taxa de eficácia quando comparada com eletrocoagulação e secção tubar.

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This study evaluates both the occurrence and removal of 24 compounds, including drugs and endocrine disruptors, in 8 water treatment plants (WTP) located in the metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte (Minas Gerais State, Brazil). The compounds 4-nonylphenol, 4-octylphenol, 17α-ethinylestradiol, 17ß-estradiol, acyclovir, bisphenol A, bezafibrate, caffeine, dexamethasone, diclofenac sodium, diltiazem, estrone, estriol, gemfibrozil, ibuprofen, linezolid, loratadine, losartan, metformin, naproxen, paracetamol, promethazine, propranolol and sulfamethoxazole were monitored at 3 sampling points (raw water, filtered water, treated water) over 10 or 12 collection campaigns for each WTP. The results showed that bisphenol A occurred at higher concentrations during the dry period with a maximum concentration of 3257.1 ng L-1, while the compounds 4-nonylphenol and losartan exhibited higher concentrations in the rainy period with maximum concentrations of 8577.2 ng L-1 and 705.8 ng L-1, respectively. Regarding the removal of compounds in the monitored WTPs, the clarification step demonstrated better removals for 4-nonylphenol, bisphenol-A, paracetamol, and sulfamethoxazole, whereas the disinfection step mainly removed the compounds 4-octylphenol and estrone. Margin of exposure (ME) assessment results indicated that only dexamethasone, ethinyl estradiol, diclofenac, estradiol, and estrone were classified as imminent risk or alert considering the 95th percentile concentration found in the samples of treated water.

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Interest in the use of natural non-toxic pigments by the food industry has grown. Some filamentous fungi are producers of natural pigments that are more stable at temperature and pH than other pigments also classified as natural, such as those produced by plants. Production potential of natural pigments by endophytic fungi from grapevines was evaluated. Arcopilus aureus was selected as a potential source for a yellow pigment, which was characterized and tested for stability to variations in temperature and pH. Components, cochlioquinol II and riboflavin, were detected, which has not previously been reported in A. aureus. The pigment was stable and showed increased absorption at lower / acidic pH. These results provide information on the potential of this fungus and a yellow pigment for the first time, which can be used for further development and industrial application.

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Latin America has a wide range of native plants spread through its territory. The palms of the Astrocaryum genus are examples of crops occurring in Central and South America, including the large plant life in Brazil. Although not very well known, the Astrocaryum spp. possess edible and non-edible fractions with potential technological and medicinal uses, as evidenced by recent research. Two native Brazilian fruits, tucumã-do-Amazonas (Astrocaryum aculeatum) and tucumã-do-Pará (Astrocaryum vulgare), typically found in the north and northeast of the country, respectively, stand out for their high antioxidant capacity and rich content in bioactive compounds, mainly carotenoids and phenolic compounds. Accordingly, experimental studies indicate their potential to prevent and treat inflammatory and oxidative stress-related conditions, including cancer. The tucumã plants have also been suggested as tools in the industry, for example for biofuel production, activated carbon technology, and as alternative packaging. Considering the importance of bringing light to underestimated yet culturally relevant native crops with potential benefits for small and large communities, this review aims to present and discuss the characteristics, bioactive composition, health effects, and technological potential of tucumã-do-Amazonas and tucumã-do-Pará fruits.

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Background: In Brazil, there is a higher prevalence of Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) compared to worldwide, due to the founder mutation in the TP53 gene p.R337H. However, a large portion of the population, that depends on National Health Care System, does not have access to effective screening through the Toronto Protocol guidelines that enables early diagnosis and improves overall survival. Population strategies for early cancer detection recommended in Brazil are limited and additional screening is not offered to patients at a high risk, leading to late diagnoses and higher cancer mortality. This study aims to assess the cost-effectiveness of introducing annual screening that follows the Toronto Protocol for patients diagnosed with LFS in Brazil. Methods: A Markov decision analytic model was developed to estimate cost-effectiveness of 1,000 LFS carriers under surveillance and non-surveillance strategies over a patient's lifetime. The main outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), expressed as cost per additional life year gained, comparing surveillance and non-surveillance strategies in p.R337H TP53 carriers. Findings: For females, the model showed a mean cost of $2,222 and $14,640 and yielded 22 and 26·2 life years for non-surveillance and surveillance strategies, respectively. The ICER for early cancer surveillance versus no surveillance was $2,982 per additional life year gained. For males, the model predicts mean lifetime costs of $1,165 and $12,883 and average life years of 23·5 and 26·3 for non-surveillance and surveillance strategies, respectively. This amounts to an ICER of $ 4,185 per additional life year. Surveillance had 64% and 45% probabilities of being the most cost-effective strategy for early cancer detection in female and male carriers, respectively. Interpretation: The adoption of surveillance for patients diagnosed with LFS by the Brazilian National Health Care System is cost-beneficial for both males and females. Funding: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency.

Introdução: No Brasil, há uma maior prevalência da Síndrome de Li-Fraumeni (LFS) em comparação ao mundo, devido à mutação fundadora no gene TP53 p.R337H. No entanto, uma grande parte da população brasileira, que depende do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), não tem acesso a um rastreamento eficaz através das diretrizes do Protocolo de Toronto, que possibilitam o diagnóstico precoce e ganho em sobrevida dos portadores da síndrome. As estratégias populacionais para detecção precoce do câncer recomendadas no Brasil são limitadas e o rastreamento adicional não é oferecido a pacientes de alto risco, levando a diagnósticos tardios e maior mortalidade por câncer. Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar a relação custo-efetividade do rastreamento anual, conforme o Protocolo de Toronto, para pacientes diagnosticados com LFS no Brasil. Métodos: Foi desenvolvido o modelo analítico de decisão Markov para estimar a relação de custo-efetividade de 1.000 portadores da LFS sob estratégias de vigilância e de não-vigilância durante a vida útil do portador. O principal desfecho é a razão de custo-efetividade incremental (ICER), que expressa qual o custo adicional por ano de vida ganho, comparando as estratégias de vigilância e não-vigilância em portadores da mutação p.R337H TP53. Resultados: Para as mulheres, o modelo demonstrou o custo médio de $2.222 e $14.640 e resultou em 22 e 26·2 anos de vida útil para as estratégias de vigilância e não-vigilância, respectivamente. O ICER para rastreamento precoce do câncer versus nenhum rastreamento foi de $2.982 por ano de vida adicional ganho. Para os homens, o modelo prevê custos médios de vida de US$ 1.165 e US$ 12.883 e anos de vida médios de 23·5 e 26·3 anos para estratégias de vigilância e não-vigilância, respectivamente. Isto equivale a um ICER de US$ 4.185 por ano de vida adicional ganho. A realização do rastreamento conforme o Protocolo de Toronto tem probabilidades de 64% e 45% de ser a estratégia mais custo-efetiva para a detecção precoce do câncer em portadores do sexo feminino e masculino, respectivamente. Interpretação: A adoção do rastreamento para pacientes diagnosticados com LFS pelo Sistema Único de Saúde Brasileiro é custo-efetiva tanto para portadores do sexo masculino quanto feminino. Financiamento: Esta pesquisa não recebeu nenhum subsídio específico de nenhuma agência de financiamento.

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Mining activities can affect the environment either by the tailings releasing or dams failures. The impact of the tailings can last decades and cause chronic effects due to their toxicity. The Fundão dam collapse, a relevant environmental disaster, occurred in November 2015 in Southeastern Brazil. Tailing rich in metals reached the Doce River and arrived in the Atlantic Ocean. Previous studies revealed the acute impact of the tailings in the marine planktonic community near the Doce River mouth. The current study aims to characterize the structure of planktonic assemblages in the impacted area after four years of the disaster. Sampling occurred in November 2018, January, April, and July 2019 at 32 stations located at the marine coastal area near the Doce River mouth. Our study detected high metal concentrations in the surface waters during January 2019, when the lowest diversity and abundance of phytoplankton, lowest zooplankton diversity, and low ichthyoplankton abundance were recorded. The zooplanktonic community was structured by environmental parameters and ichthyoplankton assemblages in November 2018, January and April 2019. Nutrients and metals, mainly iron from the tailing carried by the Doce River waters to the marine environment changed the plankton community, confirming the impact of the Fundão Dam collapse in the coastal area near the Doce River mouth. The phytoplankton community, influenced by the nutrients and to a lesser extent metals concentrations, was not decisive in the zooplankton community structure. The environmental variability was driven by the meteoceanographic conditions and the Doce River flow. There was a high correlation between the zooplanktonic community and ichthyoplanktonic assemblage and the environmental factors and metals. These relations indicate the impact of the tailings from the collapse of the Fundão Dam on these communities, even after four years of the Mariana disaster.

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