ABSTRACT Purpose: Information is scarce regarding the comprehensive profile of patients with essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm in Brazil. The present study aimed to assess the clinical features of patients with these conditions, followed up in two reference centers in Brazil. Methods: The study included patients with essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm, followed up at the Departments of Ophthalmology at Universidade Federal de São Paulo and Universidade de São Paulo. Apart from demographic and clinical features, past stressful events related to the first symptoms (triggering event), aggravating factors, sensory tricks, and other ameliorating factors for the eyelid spasms were assessed. Results: A total of 102 patients were included in this study. Most patients were female (67.7%). Essential blepharospasm was the most frequent movement disorder [51/102 patients (50%)], followed by hemifacial spasm (45%) and Meige’s syndrome (5%). In 63.5% of the patients, the onset of the disorder was associated with a past stressful event. Ameliorating factors were reported by 76.5% of patients; 47% of patients reported sensory tricks. In addition, 87% of the patients reported the presence of an aggravating factor for the spasms; stress (51%) was the most frequent. Conclusion: Our study provides information regarding the clinical features of patients treated in the two largest ophthalmology reference centers in Brazil.

RESUMO Objetivo: Há poucos dados sobre o perfil de pacientes com blefaroespasmo essencial e espasmo hemifacial no Brasil. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar de forma mais abrangente as características clínicas dos pacientes portadores dessas doenças acompanhados em dois centros de referência em oftalmologia no Brasil. Métodos: Pacientes com blefaroespasmo essencial e espasmo hemifacial, acompanhados nos Departamentos de Oftalmologia da Universidade Federal de São Paulo e da Universidade de São Paulo foram incluídos neste estudo. Além dos dados clínicos e demográficos, foram avaliados também a presença de eventos estressantes relacionados ao início dos sintomas (evento desencadeante), fatores agravantes, truques sensoriais, e outros fatores de melhora. Resultados: Cento e dois pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. A maior parte dos pacientes era do sexo feminino (67,7%). Blefaroespasmo essencial foi a condição mais frequente, observada em 51 (50%) dos pacientes. Espasmo hemifacial correspondia a 45% dos casos, enquanto 5% dos pacientes apresentavam a Síndrome de Meige. 63,5% dos pacientes associaram o início dos sintomas com um evento estressante prévio. 76,5% dos pacientes relataram fatores de melhora para os espasmos; 47% relataram truques sensoriais. Além disso, 87% dos pacientes relataram fatores de piora; estresse (51%) foi o mais frequente. Conclusão: Este estudo fornece informações a respeito das características clínicas dos pacientes com blefaroespasmo essencial e espasmo hemifacial acompanhados nos dois maiores centros de referência em oftalmologia do Brasil.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as características socioambientais, funções executivas e nutricionais de crianças de 6 a 7 anos, de escolas públicas de Alagoas, Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, transversal e descritivo envolvendo 64 crianças, na referida faixa etária, de escolas públicas localizadas em Alagoas: Maceió, no litoral; Major Isidoro, no sertão e Palmeira dos Índios, no país. Tais análises foram feitas por meio da aplicação de testes neuropsicológicos e avaliação antropométrica com crianças e inquéritos alimentares e socioambientais com seus pais. Quanto ao tipo de habitação, 100% eram de alvenaria, com banheiro presente em 98,4%. Todas as crianças relataram o hábito de tomar banho no rio / lagoa, apresentavam alguma patologia. Não houve diferença significativa entre os municípios quanto às características sociodemográficas avaliadas, ocorrendo o mesmo resultado com os fatores associados à ocorrência de doenças em crianças. Os subtestes do WISC-IV, ficaram abaixo da média em todos os municípios, e o TAC e SCC foram classificados dentro da média. Porém, mesmo que a classificação tenha sido dividida entre abaixo da média e média, é possível identificar a partir dos subtestes do WISC-IV, que o QI geral apresentou um nível cognitivo abaixo da média. Também não houve diferença significativa na avaliação antropométrica (peso, altura, IMC e AIDPI) entre os alunos avaliados. O peso médio foi de 23,3 kg a 25 kg, a altura entre 1,23 ma 1,24 m, o IMC entre 16,4 a 17; A AIDPI de 2.8 a 3.0. As crianças foram classificadas dentro da média. Em relação aos micronutrientes (Ca, Fe, K, Mg e Na e vitaminas A, C, D, B1, B9 e B12) e calorias, também não houve diferença significativa entre os municípios avaliados. O mesmo ocorreu com os macronutrientes (proteínas, carboidratos e lipídios). Este estudo mostrou que de maneira geral não houve diferença entre os alunos dos três municípios. Provavelmente, mesmo sendo todas escolas públicas e de diferentes cidades, as crianças têm condições sociais semelhantes.

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the socio-environmental characteristics, executive and nutritional functions in children aged 6 to 7 years, from public schools in Alagoas, Brazil. A quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive study was performed involving 64 children of the mentioned age group, from public schools located in Alagoas: Maceió, on the coast; Major Isidoro, in the hinterland and Palmeira dos Índios, in the country. Such analyzes were made through the application of neuropsychological tests and anthropometric assessment with children and food and socio-environmental surveys with their parents. As for the type of housing, 100% were made of masonry, with a bathroom present in 98.4%. All children reported with the habit of bathing in the river / lagoon, presented some pathology. There was no significant difference between cities in terms of the sociodemographic characteristics evaluated, with the same result occurring with the factors associated with the occurrence of diseases in children. The subtests of WISC-IV, were below the average in all municipalities, and the TAC and SCC were classified within the average. However, even though the ranking were divided between below average and average, it is possible to identify from the subtests of WISC-IV, that the general IQ showed a cognitive level below the average. There was also no significant difference in the anthropometric assessment (weight, height, BMI and IMCI) between the evaluated students. The average weight was 23.3 kg to 25 kg, the height between 1.23 m to 1.24 m, the BMI between 16.4 to 17; the IMCI from 2.8 to 3.0. Children were classified within the average. Regarding micronutrients (Ca, Fe, K, Mg and Na, and vitamins A, C, D, B1, B9 and B12) and calories, there was also no significant difference between the cities evaluated. The same occurred with macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and lipids). This study showed that in general there was no difference between the students of the three municipalities. Probably, even though they are all public schools and from different cities, children have similar social conditions.

RESUMO Objetivo: Há poucos dados sobre o perfil de pacientes com blefaroespasmo essencial e espasmo hemifacial no Brasil. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar de forma mais abrangente as características clínicas dos pacientes portadores dessas doenças acompanhados em dois centros de referência em oftalmologia no Brasil. Métodos: Pacientes com blefaroespasmo essencial e espasmo hemifacial, acompanhados nos Departamentos de Oftalmologia da Universidade Federal de São Paulo e da Universidade de São Paulo foram incluídos neste estudo. Além dos dados clínicos e demográficos, foram avaliados também a presença de eventos estressantes relacionados ao início dos sintomas (evento desencadeante), fatores agravantes, truques sensoriais, e outros fatores de melhora. Resultados: Cento e dois pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. A maior parte dos pacientes era do sexo feminino (67,7%). Blefaroespasmo essencial foi a condição mais frequente, observada em 51 (50%) dos pacientes. Espasmo hemifacial correspondia a 45% dos casos, enquanto 5% dos pacientes apresentavam a Síndrome de Meige. 63,5% dos pacientes associaram o início dos sintomas com um evento estressante prévio. 76,5% dos pacientes relataram fatores de melhora para os espasmos; 47% relataram truques sensoriais. Além disso, 87% dos pacientes relataram fatores de piora; estresse (51%) foi o mais frequente. Conclusão: Este estudo fornece informações a respeito das características clínicas dos pacientes com blefaroespasmo essencial e espasmo hemifacial acompanhados nos dois maiores centros de referência em oftalmologia do Brasil.

ABSTRACT Purpose: Information is scarce regarding the comprehensive profile of patients with essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm in Brazil. The present study aimed to assess the clinical features of patients with these conditions, followed up in two reference centers in Brazil. Methods: The study included patients with essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm, followed up at the Departments of Ophthalmology at Universidade Federal de São Paulo and Universidade de São Paulo. Apart from demographic and clinical features, past stressful events related to the first symptoms (triggering event), aggravating factors, sensory tricks, and other ameliorating factors for the eyelid spasms were assessed. Results: A total of 102 patients were included in this study. Most patients were female (67.7%). Essential blepharospasm was the most frequent movement disorder [51/102 patients (50%)], followed by hemifacial spasm (45%) and Meige’s syndrome (5%). In 63.5% of the patients, the onset of the disorder was associated with a past stressful event. Ameliorating factors were reported by 76.5% of patients; 47% of patients reported sensory tricks. In addition, 87% of the patients reported the presence of an aggravating factor for the spasms; stress (51%) was the most frequent. Conclusion: Our study provides information regarding the clinical features of patients treated in the two largest ophthalmology reference centers in Brazil.

RESUMO Objetivos. Descrever a distribuição das arboviroses causadas pelo vírus da dengue, zika e chikungunya na América Latina e no Caribe e identificar possíveis fatores associados ao potencial de disseminação e à gravidade dessas infecções. Métodos. O protocolo desta revisão sistemática foi registado na plataforma PROSPERO. Foram realizadas buscas nas bases de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, MEDLINE/PubMed e Embase. Os termos de busca foram: vírus zika, infecção pelo vírus zika, dengue, vírus da dengue, vírus chikungunya, febre chikungunya, epidemiologia, estudo observacional, América Latina e região do Caribe. Foram selecionados estudos publicados em inglês, português e espanhol, entre janeiro de 2000 e agosto de 2020, que tratavam da distribuição desses arbovírus e de fatores de risco associados à dengue, à infecção pelo vírus zika e à febre chikungunya. Resultados. Dos 95 estudos selecionados, 70 descreveram fatores de risco, manifestações clínicas e desfechos das arboviroses e 25 destacaram as complicações e/ou mortes. Houve uma maior taxa de casos confirmados de dengue. O Brasil foi o país onde se registrou a maioria dos casos dessas três arboviroses no período analisado. Fatores ambientais e socioeconômicos facilitaram a proliferação e a adaptação dos vetores dos arbovírus e fatores próprios do hospedeiro são determinantes na gravidade da dengue. As mortes ocorreram principalmente nos casos de febre chikungunya, as manifestações neurológicas foram mais comuns na infecção pelo vírus zika e a dengue resultou em maior morbidade e internação hospitalar. Conclusões. Esta revisão sistemática oferece um panorama destas três arboviroses e de suas peculiaridades destacando os fatores que influenciam a disseminação destes arbovírus nas populações estudadas.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To characterize the distribution profile of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus infections in Latin America and the Caribbean and to identify possible factors associated with the risk of dissemination and severity of these arboviruses. Methods. The protocol of this review was registered on the PROSPERO platform. Searches were carried out in the following databases: Virtual Health Library, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Embase. The search terms were: Zika virus, Zika virus infection, dengue, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, chikungunya fever, epidemiology, observational study, Latin America, and Caribbean region. Studies that addressed the distribution of these arboviruses and the risk factors associated with dengue, Zika virus disease, and chikungunya, published between January 2000 and August 2020 in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, were included. Results. Of 95 studies included, 70 identified risk factors, clinical manifestations, and outcomes for arbovirus infections and 25 described complications and/or deaths. The highest frequency of confirmed cases was for dengue. Brazil reported most cases of the three arboviruses in the period analyzed. Environmental and socioeconomic factors facilitated the proliferation and adaptation of vectors, and host-related factors were reported to aggravate dengue. Most deaths were due to chikungunya, Zika virus disease caused most neurological alterations, and dengue resulted in greater morbidity leading to more frequent hospitalization. Conclusions. The review provides a broad view of the three arboviruses and the intrinsic aspects of infections, and highlights the factors that influence the spread of these viruses in the populations studied.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Caracterizar el perfil de distribución de infecciones por dengue, chikungunya y el virus de Zika en América Latina y el Caribe, y determinar posibles factores relacionados con el riesgo de propagación y gravedad de estas arbovirosis. Métodos. Se registró el protocolo de esta revisión en la plataforma PROSPERO. Se realizaron búsquedas en las siguientes bases de datos: Virtual Health Library, MEDLINE/PubMed y Embase. Los términos de búsqueda fueron: “zika virus” [virus del Zika], “zika virus infection” [infección por el virus del Zika], “dengue”, “dengue virus” [virus del dengue], “chikungunya virus” [virus del chikunguña], “chikungunya fever” [fiebre de chikunguña], “epidemiology” [epidemiología], “observational study” [estudio observacional], “Latin America” [América Latina] y “Caribbean región” [Caribe]. Se incluyeron estudios que abordaban la distribución de estas arbovirosis y los factores de riesgo asociados con el dengue, la enfermedad por el virus del Zika y el chikunguña, publicados entre enero del 2000 y agosto del 2020 en español, inglés y portugués. Resultados. De los 95 estudios incluidos, 70 establecieron factores de riesgo, manifestaciones clínicas y resultados de las infecciones por arbovirus y 25 describieron complicaciones o muertes. La mayor frecuencia de casos confirmados fue del dengue. Brasil notificó la mayoría de los casos de infección por los tres arbovirus en el período analizado. Los factores ambientales y socioeconómicos facilitaron la proliferación y adaptación de los vectores, y se notificó que los factores relacionados con el huésped agravaban el dengue. El chikunguña causó la mayor parte de las muertes, la enfermedad por el virus del Zika causó la mayor parte de las alteraciones neurológicas y el dengue fue responsable de una mayor morbilidad, lo que llevó a una hospitalización más frecuente. Conclusiones. Esta revisión ofrece un panorama de las tres arbovirosis y de los aspectos intrínsecos de las infecciones, y pone de relieve los factores que influyen en la propagación de estos virus en las poblaciones estudiadas.

Abstract The water deficit in particular, reduces the productivity of vegetable crops. To minimize these harmful effects on agriculture, several agronomic and physiological practices are being studied, such as the use of bacteria and water stress attenuators, such as brassinosteroids. Considering the socioeconomic relevance of corn culture and its sensitivity when exposed to water deficit, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the action of brassinosteroids and azospirillum on nitrogen metabolism in corn plants subjected to water stress conditions. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse, in a period of 47 days, with corn plants, using the hybrid K9606 VIP3. The design was completely randomized, in a 2x2x3 factorial scheme, with six replications. The first factor corresponds to two water regimes (presence and absence of water deficit). The second corresponds to inoculation via seed of Azospirillum brasiliense and absence of inoculation. And the third corresponds to the application of three concentrations of brassinosteroids (0, 0.3 and 0.6 μM). Were determined Nitrate; nitrate reductase; free ammonium; total soluble aminoacids; soluble proteins; proline; glycine betaine and glutamine synthetase. The lack of water in plants provided a reduction in the protein and nitrate reductase contents, in leaves and roots. For ammonium, plants with water deficit inoculated at a concentration of 0.3 μM, obtained an increase of 7.16 (70.26%) and 13.89 (77.04%) mmol NH4 + .Kg-1. DM (Dry mass) on the leaf and root respectively. The water deficit in the soil provided significant increases in the concentrations of glycine betaine, nitrate, proline and aminoacids, both in the leaves and in the roots of the corn plants. On the other hand, the contents of glutamine synthetase had a reduction in both leaves and roots.

Resumo O déficit hídrico, em particular, reduz a produtividade das hortaliças. Para minimizar esses efeitos nocivos à agricultura, diversas práticas agronômicas e fisiológicas estão sendo estudadas, como o uso de bactérias e atenuadores de estresse hídrico, como os brassinosteróides. Considerando a relevância socioeconômica da cultura do milho e sua sensibilidade quando expostos ao déficit hídrico, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a ação de brassinosteróides e azospirillum sobre o metabolismo de nitrogênio em plantas de milho submetidas a condições de estresse hídrico. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, no período de 47 dias, com plantas de milho, utilizando-se o híbrido K9606 VIP3. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x2x3, com seis repetições. O primeiro fator corresponde a dois regimes hídricos (presença e ausência de déficit hídrico). A segunda corresponde à inoculação via semente de Azospirillum brasiliense e ausência de inoculação. E a terceira corresponde à aplicação de três concentrações de brassinosteróides (0, 0,3 e 0,6 μM). Foram determinados Nitrato; nitrato redutase; amônio livre; aminoácidos solúveis totais; proteínas solúveis; prolina; glicina, betaína e glutamina sintetase. A falta de água nas plantas proporcionou redução nos teores de proteína e nitrato redutase, nas folhas e raízes. Para o amônio, plantas com déficit hídrico, inoculadas na concentração de 0,3 μM, obtiveram aumento de 7,16 (70,26%) e 13,89 (77,04%) mmol NH4 + .Kg-1. MS (Massa seca) na folha e na raiz, respectivamente. O déficit hídrico no solo proporcionou aumentos significativos nos teores de glicina, betaína, nitrato, prolina e aminoácidos, tanto nas folhas quanto nas raízes das plantas de milho. Por outro lado, os teores de glutamina sintetase apresentaram redução tanto nas folhas quanto nas raízes.

Ouratea fieldingiana is a native medicinal plant from Northeastern Brazil and many biological properties are due to the phenolic constituents. The objective of this work was performing the characterization of O. fieldingiana leaf constituents to correlate with antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities by in vitro and in silico studies and thus contribute to find new agents against Alzheimer’s disease. The high-performance liquid chromatography revealed the presence of the flavonoids rutin, isoquercitrin, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, quercetin, apigenin and amentoflavone. The antioxidant activities by the (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) methodologies, showed good results with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranging from 5.63 to 11.47 µg mL-1 and 2.72 to 23.71 µg mL-1, respectively. Acetylcholinesterase inhibition assay pointed out the flavone apigenin with best activity. Computational studies evaluated the interaction of flavonoids with the enzyme acetylcholinesterase co-crystallized with the galantamine, used as standard. All flavonoids exhibited binding energy greater than that of galantamine, but only apigenin showed strong interaction with the active site of the enzyme and other bind probably to different allosteric centers. Then, O. fieldingiana extract and flavonoids with good anti-radical activity and presenting a broad-spectrum action against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme ought to be tested in clinical studies to discover new neuro-therapeutic candidates.

Resumo O bioma Cerrado brasileiro apresenta em uma grande variedade de espécies endêmicas com diversos compostos bioativos, e Anadenanthera peregrina (L.) Speg é uma espécie promissora. Neste estudo, objetivamos realizar a caracterização fitoquímica e avaliar as atividades antioxidantes e antibacterianas contra Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli do extrato hidroetanólico de cascas do caule de A. peregrina. As cascas foram coletadas no Jardim Botânico de Goiânia, Brasil. O extrato hidroetanólico foi obtido por percolação e submetido a triagem físico-química, estimativa de conteúdo fenólico total, impressão digital por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (HPLC) e determinação da atividade antioxidante (valores de IC50 foram calculados para o ensaio 2,2-difenil-1-picril-hidrazil) e antibacteriana. O pH do extrato foi de 5,21 e a densidade foi de 0,956 g/cm3. A triagem fitoquímica indicou a presença de glicosídeos cardíacos, ácidos orgânicos, açúcares redutores, saponinas hemolíticas, fenóis, cumarinas, taninos condensados, flavonóides, catequinas, depsídios e depsidonas derivados de benzoquinonas. O extrato mostrou intensa atividade hemolítica. O conteúdo fenólico total foi de 6,40 g de GAE 100 g-1. A análise por impressão digital por HPLC revelou a presença de ácido gálico, catequina e epicatequina. Confirmamos a atividade antioxidante do extrato. Além disso, o extrato não inibiu o crescimento de colônias de E. coli em nenhum volume testado, mas houve halos em torno das colônias de S. aureus nos três volumes testados. Estes resultados contribuem para uma melhor compreensão da composição química da casca de A. peregrina e apoia ainda mais as aplicações medicinais desta espécie.

Abstract The Brazilian Cerrado biome consists of a great variety of endemic species with several bioactive compounds, and Anadenanthera peregrina (L.) Speg is a promising species. In this study, we aimed to perform phytochemical characterization and evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of the hydroethanolic extract of A. peregrina stem bark. The barks were collected in the Botanical Garden of Goiânia, Brazil. The hydroethanolic extract was obtained by percolation and subjected to physicochemical screening, total phenolic content estimation, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprinting, and antioxidant (IC50 values were calculated for the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay - DPPH) and antibacterial activity determination. The pH of the extract was 5.21 and density was 0.956 g/cm3. The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of cardiac glycosides, organic acids, reducing sugars, hemolytic saponins, phenols, coumarins, condensed tannins, flavonoids, catechins, depsides, and depsidones derived from benzoquinones. The extract showed intense hemolytic activity. The total phenolic content was 6.40 g GAE 100 g-1. The HPLC fingerprinting analysis revealed the presence of gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin. We confirmed the antioxidant activity of the extract. Furthermore, the extract did not inhibit the growth of E. coli colonies at any volume tested, but there were halos around S. aureus colonies at all three volumes tested. These results contribute to a better understanding of the chemical composition of A. peregrina stem bark and further support the medicinal applications of this species.

Resumo Os princípios e as técnicas aplicadas na extração de DNA desempenham um papel crucial na obtenção de material genético purificado. O presente estudo investiga a eficiência de oito protocolos na extração de DNA de Hypostomus commersoni, um importante componente ictiofaunístico de riachos da América do Sul. A qualidade das amostras foi avaliada por espectrofotometria, eletroforese em gel e amplificação por marcadores de PCR-RAPD. A eficiência da extração de DNA foi influenciada tanto pelo método aplicado quanto pelo tecido-alvo de escolha. Maiores concentrações e rendimento de DNA foram obtidos a partir do tecido ocular, com um espectro positivo de incubação em tampão de lise por até 36 horas após a coleta da amostra, utilizando tecidos frescos e na presença de alta concentração de proteinase K (20 mg.ml-1). Nestas condições, as amostras foram amplificadas com sucesso. Até o momento, não há registro de descrição para os parâmetros analisados neste trabalho, nem a descrição de marcadores RAPD para a espécie H. commersoni.

Abstract The principle and the techniques applied in DNA extraction play a pivotal role in the obtention of a purified genetic material. The present study investigates the efficiency of eight protocols in the DNA extraction of Hypostomus commersoni, an essential component of South American freshwater ichthyofauna. The quality of samples was assessed through spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, and PCR-RAPD markers amplification. The efficiency of DNA extraction was influenced both by the method applied and the target-tissue of choice. Higher concentrations and yield of DNA were obtained from ocular tissue, with a positive spectrum of incubation in lysis buffer for up to 36 hours after sample collection, using fresh tissues and in the presence of a high concentration of Proteinase K (20 mg.ml-1). In these conditions, samples were successfully amplified. To date, there is no record of description for the parameters analyzed in this work, neither the description of RAPD markers for the species H. commersoni.

Abstract Biotransformations are chemical reactions carried out by microorganisms on organic substrates. Biotransformations can be regio-, chemo-, stereo- and enantio-selective. Bioreductions are of great interest to the food and pharmaceutical industries as they help to reduce costs and impacts on the environment. In this work, the following biotransformations of chalcones were performed: (2E)-1-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-(2-methoxy-phenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one (1), (2E)-1-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one (2), and (2E)-1-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-prop-2-en-1-one (3) by the fungus Scedosporium aspiospermum, leading to formation through chemo-selective reduction of dihydrochalcones 1-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-(2-methoxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one (4), 1-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-propan-1-one (5), and 1-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-propan-1-one (6). Compounds 1-6 had their antimicrobial activities tested and were observed better activity to the biotransformation products compared with substrates. This is the first report of chemo-selective bioreduction by fungi of the genus Scedosporium in biotransformation reactions.

Resumen Las biotransformaciones son reacciones químicas llevadas a cabo por microorganismos sobre sustratos orgánicos. Las biotransformaciones pueden ser regio-, quimio-, estereo- y enantio-selectivas. Las biorreducciones son de gran interés para la industria alimentaria y farmacéutica, ya que ayudan a reducir costes e impactos sobre el medio ambiente. En este trabajo se realizaron las siguientes biotransformaciones de las chalconas: (2E)-1-(4-hidroxi-fenil)-3-(2-metoxi-fenil)-prop-2-en-1-ona (1), ( 2E)-1-(4-hidroxi-fenil)-3-(4-metoxi-fenil)-prop-2-en-1-ona (2) y (2E)-1-(4-hidroxi-fenil)-3-fenil-prop-2-en-1-ona ( 3 ) por el hongo Scedosporium aspiospermum, que conduce a la formación mediante reducción quimio-selectiva de dihidrocalconas 1-(4-hidroxi-fenil)-3-(2-metoxi-fenil)-propan-1-ona (4), 1-(4-hidroxi-fenil)-3-(4-metoxi-fenil)-propan-1-ona (5) y 1-(4-hidroxi-fenil)-3-fenil-propan-1-ona (6). Se ensayaron las actividades antimicrobianas de los compuestos 1-6 y se observó una mejor actividad para los productos de biotransformación en comparación con los sustratos. Este es el primer informe de biorreducción quimio-selectiva por hongos del género Scedosporium en reacciones de biotransformación.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o comportamento biológico de microesferas de hidroxiapatita (HA) substituída com magnésio (Mg) durante o reparo de defeito ósseo crítico, tendo em vista que este íon é de grande interesse clínico, pois está intimamente associado à homeostasia e à mineralização óssea. Para tanto, utilizou-se 30 ratos para compor três grupos experimentais: GI - defeito ósseo preenchido com microesferas de HA; GII - defeito ósseo preenchido com microesferas de HA substituída com Mg; GIII (controle) - defeito ósseo vazio; avaliados nos pontos biológicos de 15 e 45 dias. Os resultados histológicos evidenciaram, aos 15 dias, discreto infiltrado inflamatório crônico e neoformação óssea restrita às bordas, em todos os grupos. Nos grupos GI e GII, os biomateriais mantiveram-se íntegros e circundados por tecido conjuntivo frouxo. Aos 45 dias, notou-se resposta inflamatória do tipo crônica granulomatosa discreta nos grupos GI e GII, e no GIII presença escassa de células inflamatórias mononucleares. As microesferas implantadas no GI e GII mantiveram-se, em sua maioria, íntegras e envolvidas por tecido conjuntivo fibroso. Notou-se discreta neoformação óssea próxima às bordas e circunjacente a algumas microesferas. No GIII, a mineralização limitou-se às bordas e a área remanescente foi preenchida por tecido conjuntivo fibroso. Conclui-se que os biomateriais foram biocompatíveis, bioativos, osteocondutores e apresentaram biodegradação lenta, indicando seu grande potencial para em aplicações clínica como biomaterial de preenchimento.

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the biological behavior and osteogenic potential of magnesium (Mg) substituted hydroxyapatite (HA) microspheres, implanted in a critical bone defect, considering that this ion is of great clinical interest, since it is closely associated with homeostasis and bone mineralization. For the purpose of this study, 30 rats were used to compose three experimental groups: GI - bone defect filled with HA microspheres; GII - bone defect filled with HA microspheres replaced with Mg; GIII - empty bone defect; evaluated at biological points of 15 and 45 days. The histological results, at 15 days, showed, in all the groups, a discrete chronic inflammatory infiltrate; biomaterials intact and surrounded by connective tissue; and bone neoformation restricted to the borders. At 45 days, in the GI and GII groups, an inflammatory response of discrete granulomatous chronic type was observed, and in the GIII there was a scarce presence of mononuclear inflammatory cells; in GI and GII, the microspheres were seen to be either intact or fragmented, surrounded by fibrous connective tissue rich in blood vessels; and discrete bone neoformation near the edges and surrounding some microspheres. In GIII, the mineralization was limited to the borders and the remaining area was filled by fibrous connective tissue. It was concluded that the biomaterials were biocompatible and osteoconductive, and the percentage of Mg used as replacement ion in the HA did not favor a greater bone neoformation in relation to the HA without the metal.

Abstract Modelling studies on climate change predict continuous increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration [CO2] and increase in temperature. This may alter carbon-based phytochemicals such phenolics and modify plant interactions with herbivorous. We investigated the effects of enhanced [CO2] and local climatic variation on young coffee plants, Coffea arabica L. cv Catuaí vermelho IAC-144 and Obatã vermelho IAC-1669-20, cultivated in the FACE (Free-Air Carbon Dioxide Enrichment) facility under two atmospheric [CO2] conditions. Coffee leaves were evaluated for total soluble phenolics (TSP), chlorogenic (5-CQA) and caffeic (CAF) acids, diversity and population size of mites, along two dry and two rainy seasons. Elevated atmospheric CO2 (e[CO2]) significantly decreased 5-CQA in cv. Catuaí but did not affect cv. Obatã. Species richness and population size of mites in coffee leaves were not affected by e[CO2] but were strongly related to the seasonal variability of coffee leaf phenolics. In general, high levels of phenolics were negatively correlated with population size while the mite species richness were negatively correlated with 5-CQA and TSP levels. Our findings show that [CO2] enhancement affects phenolics in coffee plants differentially by cultivars, however seasonality is the key determinant of phenolics composition, mite species richness and population size.

Industry 4.0 has been discussed in the scientific community since its inception in 2011. Discussions have focused on characterising what Industry 4.0 is. This industry will increasingly require professionals to perform complex and indirect tasks, such as working together with machines in their daily work. This article aims to analyse the skills and competencies required by Industry 4.0, and to compare them with the scope of production engineering disciplines in six Brazilian universities. As a methodological option, the study is classified as exploratory, bibliographic, and qualitative. It is established that the current syllabus of production engineering courses of Brazilian universities needs to be improved, seeking alignment with the skills and competencies required by Industry 4.0. Although the Industry 4.0 theme is being discussed in the scientific field in Brazilian universities, it is not yet possible to identify any key actions taken to adjust and improve production engineering courses.

Industrie 4.0 word al sedert die ontstaan daarvan in 2011 deur die wetenskaplike gemeenskap bespreek. Besprekings fokus op die karakterisering van wat presies Industrie 4.0 behels. Die industrie sal toenemend professionele persone benodig om ingewikkelde en indirekte take te voltooi, soos om daagliks saam met masjiene te werk. Die doel is om die vaardighede en bekwaamhede wat deur Industrie 4.0 benodig word te ontleed en om hulle te vergelyk binne die omvang van ses Brasiliaanse universiteite. Die ondersoek is geklassifiseer as verkennend, bibliografies en kwalitatief. Daar is vasgetel dat die bestaande sillabus van bedryfsingenieurswese van die ses universiteite verbeter moet word sodat daar beter belyning is met die benodigde vaardighede en bekwaamhede van Industrie 4.0. Alhoewel die Industrie 4.0-tema deur akademici by Brasiliaanse universiteite bespreek word, is dit nog nie moontlik om enige sleutel stappe om die bestaande bedryfsingenieurswese kursusse aan te pas te identifiseer nie.

Objective: To translate, establish the diagnostic accuracy, and standardize the Brazilian Portuguese version of the European Cross-Cultural Neuropsychological Test Battery (CNTB) considering schooling level. Methods: We first completed an English-Brazilian Portuguese translation and back-translation of the CNTB. A total of 135 subjects aged over 60 years – 65 cognitively healthy (mean 72.83, SD = 7.71; mean education 9.42, SD = 7.69; illiterate = 25.8%) and 70 with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (mean 78.87, SD = 7.09; mean education 7.62, SD = 5.13; illiterate = 10%) – completed an interview and were screened for depression. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to verify the accuracy of each CNTB test to separate AD from healthy controls in participants with low levels of education (≤ 4 years of schooling) and high levels of education (≥ 8 years of schooling). The optimal cutoff score was determined for each test. Results: The Recall of Pictures Test (RPT)-delayed recall and the Enhanced Cued Recall (ECR) had the highest power to separate AD from controls. The tests with the least impact from schooling were the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS), supermarket fluency, RPT naming, delayed recall and recognition, and ECR. Conclusions: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the CNTB was well comprehended by the participants. The cognitive tests that best discriminated patients with AD from controls in lower and higher schooling participants were RPT delayed recall and ECR, both of which evaluate memory.

Resumo Objetivou-se descrever e caracterizar a morfologia de frutos, sementes, plântulas, e germinação de Richeria grandis. Frutos maduros foram coletados de árvores-matrizes localizadas em matas de galeria e, posteriormente, foram realizadas descrições morfológicas. Procedeu-se a mensuração biométrica dos frutos e sementes. Ainda, após beneficiamento, foram separados de forma aleatória, 650 sementes, em que 20% foram utilizadas para germinação e teste de umidade no mesmo dia da coleta e as outras, armazenadas durante 5, 10, 15 e 20 dias. O teste de germinação foi realizado em gerbox, feito em câmeras do tipo B.O.D. com um fotoperíodo de 12 h e temperatura de 25 ºC ± 1 ºC. Realizou-se observações periódicas para o acompanhamento do desenvolvimento das plântulas até que as primeiras sementes germinadas atingissem o estádio de plântula completa. O fruto da R. grandis é simples, seco, do tipo cápsula septífraga, deiscentes e esquizocarpos, com comprimento médio de 16,24 mm e largura média de 8,57 mm. A semente é elipsoide com presença de sarcotesta, com comprimento médio de 7,40 mm e largura média de 4,57 mm. A R. grandis apresenta sementes recalcitrantes. A emergência é do tipo Fanero-epígeo-foliáceo. A radícula rompe o tegumento no segundo dia após a semeadura, o coleto é evidenciado ao 10º dia, separando a raiz primária do hipocótilo. A partir do 16º dia, os cotilédones expandem-se da testa, posicionados em um ângulo de 90º em relação ao hipocótilo. O protófilo e o epicótilo surgem somente após o 50º dia, caracterizando a plântula completa.

Abstract The objective was to describe and characterize the fruit morphology, seeds, seedlings and germination of Richeria grandis. Mature fruits were collected from matrix trees located in gallery forests. After, morphological descriptions were performed. Biometric measurement of fruits and seeds were carried out. A total of 650 seeds were randomly separated, with 20% being used for germination and humidity testing on the same day of collection and the others stored for 5, 10, 15 and 20 days. The germination test was performed in a gerbox, conducted in a laboratory chamber of the type B.O.D (biochemical oxygen demand) with a photoperiod of 12h and a temperature of 25 ºC ± 1 ºC. Periodic observations were made to monitor the development of the seedlings until the first germinated seeds reached the full seedling stage. The fruit of R. grandis is a simple, dry, capsule type septifraga, dehiscent and schizocarpic, with average length of 16.24 mm and an average width of 8.57 mm. The seed is an ellipsoid shape, containing a sarcotesta and has an average length of 7.40 mm and an average width of 4.57 mm. R. grandis presents recalcitrant seeds, which emerge in a Phanero-epigene-foliaceous manner. The radicle breaks the integument on the second day after sowing, the collection is evidenced on the 10th day, separating the primary root from the hypocotyl. At day 16, the cotyledons expand from the forehead, positioned at a 90º angle to the hypocotyl. The protophyll and the epicotyl appear only after the 50th day, characterizing the complete seedling.