Abstract In order to determine the structure and biomass of phytoplankton (picophytoplankton, nanodiatoms, and microdiatoms) under oligotrophic conditions, a study was carried out in the surface layer of the Guaymas Basin, Gulf of California, during the late summer of 2016. This study included the measurement of hydrographic, chemical, and biological variables in the surface layer of the study area. Our results showed a warm, strongly stratified, and nutrient-depleted water column associated with reduced phytoplankton biomass (<1 mg Chla·m-3). The average ratios of N:P (0.55 ± 1.34), N:Si (0.13 ± 0.18), and Fe:N (52.70 ± 29.70) indicate N-limiting conditions. The biomass contribution of phytoplankton groups fluctuated widely by depth level, with predominance of picophytoplankton (85.0 ± 2.7%) at the surface (5 m) and nano-microdiatoms (91.5 ± 5.9%) at the deepest level (35-40 m), adjacent to the thermocline. Diatoms dominated the integrated biomass between the surface and 50-m depth, with an average contribution ~6 times greater than that of picophytoplankton. Despite the ideal conditions for the proliferation of diazotrophs, the presence of Trichodesmium spp. and Richelia intracellularis was very irregular and in relatively low abundances (2,220 ± 1,575 cell·L-1). Our results are especially relevant as they suggest that, under N-limiting conditions, the paradigm of high biomass and large cell dominance in the Gulf of California may be challenged during the summer season.

Resumen Con el propósito de determinar la biomasa y la composición del fitoplancton (picofitoplancton, nanodiatomeas y microdiatomeas) bajo condiciones oligotróficas, se realizó un estudio en la capa superficial de la cuenca de Guaymas, golfo de California, durante el verano tardío de 2016. El estudio contempló la medición de variables hidrográficas, químicas y biológicas en la capa superficial del área de estudio. Nuestros resultados mostraron una columna de agua cálida, fuertemente estratificada, empobrecida en nutrientes y con biomasas fitoplanctónicas reducidas (<1 mg Cla·m-3). Los cocientes promedio de N:P (0.55 ± 1.34), N:Si (0.13 ± 0.18) y Fe:N (52.70 ± 29.70) indicaron condiciones de limitación por N. La contribución de los grupos fitoplanctónicos a la biomasa fluctuó ampliamente por nivel de profundidad, y se observó el predominio del picofitoplancton (85.0 ± 2.7%) en superficie (5 m) y de las nano-microdiatomeas (91.5 ± 5.9%) en el nivel más profundo (35-40 m), adyacente a la termoclina. Las diatomeas dominaron la biomasa integrada entre la superficie y 50 m de profundidad, con una contribución promedio ~6 veces mayor que la del picofitoplancton. A pesar de que se registraron condiciones ideales para la proliferación de cianobacterias diazótrofas, la presencia de Trichodesmium spp. y Richelia intracellularis fue muy irregular y en abundancias relativamente bajas (2,220 ± 1,575 célula·L-1). Nuestros resultados son especialmente relevantes, ya que sugieren que, bajo condiciones de limitación por N, el paradigma de la alta biomasa y dominancia de células grandes en el golfo de California puede verse desafiado durante la temporada de verano.

SUMMARY The “fertility islands” are the result of soil partióles, water, nutrients, and biomass accumulation under their canopy. The study of soil and plant parameters in fertility islands is important for the redefinition of management strategies. The hypothesis is that Neltuma flexuosa and Larrea divaricata fertility islands in the Arid Chaco improve soil chemical properties under their canopies affecting the quality and quantity of forage. The objective is to evaluate soil chemical properties on the response of plants in fertility islands. The effect of nurse plants over soil chemical properties and their relation with functional plant groups was studied. Livestock carrying capacity (LCC) significantly increased under the canopy of N. flexuosa. Decreasers were positively related to the N. flexuosa canopy, and negatively to L. divaricata canopy. Soil organic carbon (OC) related positively with decreasers in N. flexuosa Islands, but negatively in L. divaricata islands where there seems to exist allelopathy effect. Extractable phosphorus correlated positively with decreasers.

RESUMEN Las “islas de fertilidad” son el resultado de la acumulación de partículas de suelo, agua, nutrientes y biomasa bajo su canopia. El estudio de parámetros de suelo y de vegetación en islas de fertilidad es importante para la redefinición de estrategias de manejo. La hipótesis es que las islas de fertilidad de Neltuma flexuosa y Larrea divaricata en el Chaco Árido mejoran las propiedades químicas del suelo bajo su canopia afectando la calidad y cantidad de forraje. El objetivo es evaluar las propiedades químicas del suelo sobre la respuesta de las plantas en islas de fertilidad. Se estudió la influencia de plantas nodrizas sobre propiedades químicas del suelo y su relación con grupos funcionales de plantas. La capacidad de carga ganadera (LCC) se incrementó significativamente bajo la canopia de N. flexuosa. Las especies decrecientes se relacionaron positivamente bajo canopia de N. flexuosa, y negativamente bajo L. divaricata. El carbono orgánico del suelo (OC) se relacionó positivamente con las especies decrecientes en islas de N. flexuosa, pero negativamente en las islas de L. divaricata donde aparentemente ocurre alelopatía. El fósforo extractable se correlacionó positivamente con las especies decrecientes.

ABSTRACT Current procedures for determining soil organic carbon (SOC) content are costly, time-consuming, and generate polluting chemical waste. Therefore, developing new protocols using aerial and orbital remote sensing and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) for digitally mapping the stock of soil organic carbon (CS) is essential for promoting actions of research and monitoring SOC in Brazilian soils. Given this, three areas of commercial plots in the region of the Middle North of Mato Grosso were studied, where sampling was carried out for the determination of SOC in the layer from 0 to 30 cm, evaluated by the dry combustion method and estimated through DRS in the visible to near -infrared region - Vis-NIR-SWIR/350-2500 nm). To obtain the images by aerial remote sensing, the Carcará II® Unmanned Aerial Vehicle was used, with a MicaSense® multispectral camera (RGB + NIR + RedEdge) attached. The orbital sensors used were the Sentinel 2® and Planet® satellites. This study showed that soil carbon stock values could be predicted using different modeling approaches based on field and laboratory spectral measurements. Predictive models to estimate SOC can be established using remote and near sensing, thus allowing a better understanding of spatial patterns of SOC in crop fields.

RESUMO Os procedimentos atuais de determinação do conteúdo de carbono orgânico do solo (COS) são onerosos, demorados e geram resíduos químicos poluentes. Por isso, o desenvolvimento de novos protocolos utilizando o sensoriamento remoto aéreo, orbital e a espectroscopia de refletância difusa (ERD) para o mapeamento digital do estoque de carbono orgânico do solo (EC) são imprescindíveis para o fomento de ações de pesquisa e monitoramento do COS nos solos brasileiros. Diante disso, foram estudadas três áreas de talhões comerciais na região do Meio Norte de Mato Grosso onde realizou-se a amostragem para a determinação de COS na camada de 0 a 30 cm, avaliado pelo método de combustão via seca e estimado através da ERD na região do visível ao infravermelho-próximo - Vis-NIR-SWIR/350-2500 nm) . Para obtenção das imagens por sensoriamento remoto aéreo, foi utilizado o Veículo Aéreo Não Tripulado Carcará II®, com uma câmera multiespectal (RGB + NIR + RedEdge) da marca MicaSense® acoplada. Os sensores orbitais utilizados foram o satélite Sentinel 2® e Planet®. Este estudo mostrou que os valores do estoque de carbono do solo podem ser preditos usando diferentes abordagens de modelagem com base em medições espectrais de campo e laboratório. Modelos preditivos para estimar o COS podem ser estabelecidos usando sensoriamento remoto e próximo, permitindo assim uma melhor compreensão dos padrões espaciais do COS nos campos de cultivo.

Resumen Introducción: El objetivo principal del estudio fue evaluar la mortalidad en los pacientes con COVID-19 graves y críticos, que recibieron tocilizumab (TCZ) -un antagonista monoclonal del receptor de IL-6- de forma temprana vs. tardía. Métodos: Cohorte retrospectiva multicéntrica de pacientes >18 años internados con COVID-19 desde el 1/7/2021-1/8/2022, con 5-7 puntos de gravedad inicial (GI) según Escala de la OMS. Se consideró adminis tración temprana o tardía a la infusión de TCZ ≤ ó > a 48 h del ingreso. Las variables de resultado fueron mortalidad a 28 días y cambio de la GI. Los factores relacionados con la mortalidad fueron evaluados con regresión de Cox. Resultados: Se incluyeron 266 pacientes, 159(60%) varones; edad 58(± 15); con hipertensión arterial (43%), obesidad (37%) y diabetes (27%);70 presentaban GI = 5 (oxígeno suplementario), 143 GI = 6 (ventilación no inva siva o cánula nasal de alto flujo) y 53 GI = 7 (ventilación mecánica invasiva). La mortalidad a 28 días fue 42%, asociada independientemente a: edad, obesidad, GI, días entre la internación y administración del TCZ, y días entre la fecha de inicio de síntomas y el TCZ. La mortalidad para GI 5, 6 y 7 fue 26%, 39% y 72%, respectivamente; 76% y 62% de los pacientes permanecieron estables o mejoraron la GI a los días 3 y 7 de la infusión de TCZ. La mortalidad a 28 días fue 39% (TCZ temprano) vs. 57% (TCZ tardío); p = 0.02; HR = 0.63[0.41-0.99, p = 0.05]). Discusión: Estos resultados apoyan la administración temprana de TCZ en pacientes con COVID-19 grave y crítica.

Abstract Introduction: Tocilizumab (TCZ), an IL-6 receptor antagonist monoclonal antibody is warranted in severe and critically-ill COVID-19 patients. The objective was to evaluate 28-day mortality of patients with severe or critical COVID-19 treated with early vs delayed TCZ. Methods: Multicenter, retrospective cohort study in cluding patients>18 years hospitalized between 7/1/2021- 8/1/2022 with confirmed COVID-19, with 5, 6 and 7 points of WHO Ordinal Initial Severity Scale [SS]. Early or late administration was considered if TCZ was administered before or after 48 hours from admission. Outcomes were28-day mortality and change of SS. Factors related to 28-day mortality were evaluated with Cox regression. Results: 266 patients were included, 159(60%) male; aged 58(± 15); frequent comorbidities were hypertension (42%), obesity (37%) and diabetes (27%). Seventy patients had a SS = 5 (Supplemental O2), 143 had SS = 6 (NIV/ HFNC), and 53 had SS = 7 (IMV). 28-day mortality was 42%(112/266); predictors were age, obesity, higher SS, days between hospitalization and TCZ administration, and fewer days between symptoms onset and TCZ. Mortality of SS 5, 6 and 7 was 26%, 39% and 72% respectively. Com pared with baseline SS points, 76% and 62% of patients remained stable or improved on days 3 and 7 since TCZ administration. 28-day mortality was lower when TCZ was administered before 48 hours (39% vs 57%; p = 0.02; HR = 0.63;[0.41-0.99, p = 0.05]). Discussion: This study supports the early use of TCZ in patients with severe or critical COVID-19.

Resumen Antecedentes: La emergencia sanitaria por COVID-19 causó un aumento de la demanda por hospitalización y costos elevados para el sistema de salud. Objetivo: Estimar los costos directos de la atención por COVID-19 desde la perspectiva del proveedor de servicios en un hospital de segundo nivel que fue reconvertido durante el primer año de la emergencia sanitaria. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo. La información sobre cantidades de bienes y servicios se obtuvo de los sistemas de información SINOLAVE y CVOED, así como de fuentes administrativas del hospital. Se definieron cuatro grupos de costos y se valoraron en dólares norteamericanos con precios unitarios de 2021. Resultados: La duración promedio de la estancia hospitalaria (n = 3241 pacientes) fue de 10.8 ± 8.2 días. El costo promedio de la atención por paciente fue de USD 6 557 ± 4 997. La terapia respiratoria con ventilación mecánica asistida fue utilizada por 13 % de los pacientes. Conclusiones: Los costos médicos de atención por COVID-19 representaron una gran cantidad de recursos. La mayor parte de los costos (95 %) se derivó de estancia hospitalaria, terapia respiratoria sin ventilación mecánica asistida, así como de costos relacionados con equipo de protección personal, higiene, adecuación a la infraestructura y pagos al personal médico.

Abstract Background: COVID-19 health emergency caused an increase in the demand for hospitalization and high costs for the health system. Objective: To estimate COVID-19 care direct costs from the perspective of the healthcare provider in a secondary care hospital that underwent conversion during the first year of health emergency. Material and methods: Retrospective, observational study. Information on quantities of goods and services was obtained from the SINOLAVE and CVOED platforms and from hospital administrative sources. Four cost groups were defined and estimated with 2021 unit prices in US dollars. Results: Mean hospital length of stay (n = 3,241 patients) was 10.8 ± 8.2 days. Average cost of care per patient was USD 6,557 ± 4,997. Respiratory therapy with assisted mechanical ventilation was used by 13% of patients. Conclusions: The costs of COVID-19 medical care represent a large amount of resources. Most part of the costs (95%) were derived from hospital stay, respiratory therapy without assisted mechanical ventilation and costs related to personal protective equipment, hygiene, infrastructure adaptation and payments to medical personnel.

Resumen Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura en las bases de datos ScienceDirect, PubMed y SciELO. Como criterios de inclusión se tomaron en cuenta artículos originales, de texto completo que incluyeran el uso de nanopartículas (0-100 nm) con fines de regeneración periodontal publicados de 2016 a mayo del 2022. Los términos de búsqueda fueron “Periodontal regeneration AND nanoparticles AND dental materials”. Se obtuvieron y analizaron 13 artículos que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se encontró que la nanohidroxiapatita tiene alto efecto regenerador, seguido de nanopartículas de dióxido de titanio, oro, fosfato de calcio, quitosano y óxido de hierro, entre otras. Estas nanopartículas mostraron efecto de regeneración periodontal de una a cuatro semanas promoviendo principalmente las propiedades de osteoinducción, citocompatibilidad, adherencia celular, degradabilidad, analgesia y biomineralización. La nanotecnología en el campo odontológico está emergiendo como una plataforma atractiva para la terapia avanzada en conjunto con los biomateriales dentales. En esta revisión se encontró que las nHA y TiO2NPs mostraron la mejor respuesta celular en el menor tiempo para obtener resultados regenerativos en periodoncia en comparación con otros tipos de NPs utilizadas. Aún hay muy pocas NPs analizadas con fines de regeneración periodontal, por lo que su estudio es un área emergente; sin olvidarnos de las posibles limitantes, consecuencias y efectos adversos a corto y largo plazo, los cuales deben ser estudiados con mayor profundidad.

Abstract To carry out a systematic review of the literature to identify the types of nanoparticles and the effect they have on periodontal regeneration, a systematic review of the literature was carried out in the ScienceDirect, PubMed and SciELO databases. As inclusion criteria, the full-text original articles that included the use of nanoparticles (0-100 nm) for periodontal regeneration purposes published between 2016 and 2022 were taken into account. The search terms were “Periodontal regeneration AND nanoparticles AND dental materials”. 13 articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were obtained and analyzed. nHA was found to have a high regenerative effect, followed by TiO2NPs, gold, calcium phosphate, chitosan, and iron oxide, among others. These NPs showed a periodontal regeneration effect for one to four weeks, mainly promoting osteoinduction, cytocompatibility, cell adherence, degradability, analgesia and biomineralization properties. Nanotechnology in the dental field is emerging as an attractive platform for advanced therapy in conjunction with dental biomaterials. In this review, it was found that nHA and TiO2NPs showed the best cellular response and in the shortest time to obtain regenerative results in periodontics in comparison to other NPs. There are still very few NPs analyzed for periodontal regeneration purposes, so their study is an emerging area. It is essential to recognize the possible limitations, consequences and adverse effects in short and long term, which must be studied in greater depth.

Resumen Antecedentes. La incidencia de carcinomatosis peritoneal (CP) secundaria a cáncer gastrointestinal o ginecológico ha aumentado y tiene peor pronóstico en comparación con otros sitios de metástasis. El índice de carcinomatosis peritoneal (ICP) establece la supervivencia global en pacientes con tumores gastrointestinales o ginecológicos y carcinomatosis. Objetivo. Evaluar la relación del ICP con la supervivencia global (SG) y la supervivencia libre de recurrencia (SLR) en pacientes tratados con cirugía citorreductora (CCR) más quimioterapia intraperitoneal e hipertemia (HIPEC). Método. Estudio descriptivo, retrolectivo, de 80 expedientes de pacientes con CP. Se incluyeron tumores de colon, ovario, apendicular, pseudomixomas y gástricos con CP tratados con CCR + HIPEC. Se determinaron la SG y la SLR de acuerdo con el tipo de adenocarcinoma y el grado de diferenciación, en meses, en pacientes con ICP > 15 y con ICP < 15 considerando el tumor de origen. Resultados. Los pacientes con tumores de ovario y pseudomixoma con ICP < 15 tenían una SG > 70 meses, frente a 4 meses con tumores gástricos. Conclusiones. El ICP y la histología son predictores de la SG. Las pacientes con tumores ováricos con ICP < 15 tienen mayor SG, igual que los pseudomixomas. La SLR fue mayor en los pacientes con ICP < 15.

Abstract Background. The peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) secondary to gastrointestinal or gynecological cancer has increased its incidence. It has a worse prognosis compared to other sites of metastasis. The peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) establishes overall survival in patients with gastrointestinal or gynecological tumors and carcinomatosis. Objective. To evaluate the relationship of PCI to overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in patients treated with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Method. A descriptive, retrolective study of 80 charts of patients with CP was conducted. We included patients with colon, ovarian, appendicular, pseudomyxoma and gastric tumors with CP treated with CRS plus HIPEC. The OS and RFS were determined according to the type of adenocarcinoma and the degree of differentiation. The OS and RFS were determined in months in patients with PCI > 15 PCI as well as in patients with PCI < 15 considering the tumor of origin. Results. Patients with ovarian tumors and pseudomyxoma with PCI < 15 presented OS > 70 months, compared to patients with gastric tumors (4 months). Conclusions. The PCI and histology are predictors of OS. Patients with ovarian tumors and PCI < 15 have higher OS, similar to pseudomyxomas. RFS was also higher in patients with PCI < 15.

Resumen Las hojas de yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A.St. Hil) y jarilla (Larrea divaricata Cav.) se usan comúnmente como infusión de té en algunos países de América Latina. Este estudio se realizó para evaluar la actividad antioxidante (FRAP, ABTS y DPPH) y el potencial inhibitorio de los extractos de yerba mate y jarilla sobre la proteasa 3CL (Mpro) de coronavirus SARS-COV-2 por enfoque de acoplamiento molecular. Los principales compuestos bioactivos presentes en los extractos de plantas fueron identificados por HPLC-MS. De acuerdo con los resultados, los extractos polifenólicos de yerba mate y jarilla presentaron alta actividad antioxidante en los ensayos DPPH (> 91 %), ABTS (> 90 %) y FRAP (> 47 mg TE/g). Además, los compuestos fenólicos presentes en la yerba mate, quercetina-3-O-rutinósido (rutina) (-9,60 kcal/ mol) y ácido 3,4-dicafeoilquínico (- 8,20 kcal/mol) han demostrado ser más efectivos (en Mpro) que los medicamentos antivirales remdesivir y ribavirin. Los compuestos rutina y ácido 3,4-dicafeoilquínico tienen alta afinidad e interacción con uno de los residuos catalíticos Cys145 de Mpro. Estos resultados sugieren que las hojas de yerba mate y jarilla podrían potenciar las defensas antioxidantes del organismo y podrían beneficiar la salud.

Abstract Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A.St. Hil) and jarilla (Larrea divaricata Cav.) leaves are commonly used as tea infusions in some Latin American countries. This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant activity (FRAP, ABTS, and DPPH) and the inhibitory potential of yerba mate and jarilla extracts on the 3CL protease (Mpro) from coronavirus SARS-COV-2 by a molecular docking approach. The main bioactive compounds present in the plant extracts were identified by HPLC-MS. According to the results, the extracts of yerba mate and jarilla showed high antioxidant activity in DPPH (> 91 %), ABTS (> 90 %), and FRAP (> 47 mg TE/g) assays. Additionally, the phenolic compounds present in yerba mate, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin) (-9.60 kcal/mol) and 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid (- 8.20 kcal/mol) were more effective on Mpro than the antiviral drugs remdesivir and ribavirin. The compounds rutin and 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid have a high affinity and interaction with one of the catalytic residues Cys145 of Mpro. The glycosylation of phenolic compounds affects biological activities: positively anti-COVID-19 and negatively antioxidant. The results suggest that extracts of yerba mate and jarilla leaves could enhance the body’s antioxidant defenses and can be used to improve health.

ABSTRACT Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the environment represents a danger to people's health. Conventional methods for monitoring H2S require absorbent solutions, which usually contains harmful substances such as cadmium sulphate (CdSO4). Constant exposure to cadmium sulphate may cause health damage. In the present work, Ulvan polysaccharides were evaluated as additives in the preparation of absorbent solutions for H2S(g) capture. The resultant Ulvan-based solution featured low content of harmful substances such as cadmium sulphate, sodium hydroxide, and arabinogalactan. The parameters used to validate the performance of the prepared Ulvan-based absorbent solutions included linearity, precision, selectivity, working range, detection limit, quantification limit, robustness, and uncertainty. The relative standard deviation of repeatability (%RSD) was compared to the Horwitz's %RSD. It was found that %RSD was less than Horwitz's %RSD. This showed that measurements were accurate. The linearity of the calibration curve made with the Ulvan-based solutions featured a coefficient of determination (R2) higher than 0.995. The limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LDQ) values of H2S(g) were 0.13 µg/m3 and 0.26 µg/m3, respectively. Finally, the groups evaluated at different color reaction times were robust. This showed that the determination of H2S(g) content using the Ulvan-based absorbent solution could be performed under normal conditions without affecting the reproducibility of the results. The modified and optimized method with Ulvan polysaccharides complied with the required acceptance parameters proposed. These results showed that Ulvan represents a potential alternative for applications related to detecting polluting gases such as H2S(g).

RESUMEN La presencia de ácido sulfhídrico (H2S) en el medio ambiente representa un peligro para la salud de las personas. Los métodos convencionales para la detección de H2S requieren del uso de soluciones captadoras, las cuales contienen sulfato de cadmio (CdSO4), hidróxido de sodio (NaOH) y arabinogalactano, que a su vez puede provocar daños en la salud por una constante exposición. En el presente trabajo se validó el uso de polisacáridos Ulvan, como aditivo reemplazante en la preparación de la solución absorbente del contaminante gaseoso ácido sulfhídrico (H2S) según la metodología COVENIN 3571:2000 Calidad de aire. Determinación de la concentración sulfuro de hidrogeno (H2S(g)) en la atmosfera. Los resultados obtenidos en la validación del método modificado (porque se modificó la solución absorbente) fueron analizados a través de parámetros como linealidad, precisión, veracidad, selectividad, rango de trabajo, límite de detección, límite de cuantificación, robustez e incertidumbre. Se determinó que los datos obtenidos fueron precisos debido a que el % de desviación estándar relativa (RSD) de repetibilidad fue menor al %RSD de Horwitz. Además, a partir de la curva de calibración, se comprobó la linealidad satisfactoria del método modificado con polisacáridos Ulvan debido a que el coeficiente de determinación (R2) fue superior a 0.995. Los valores límite de detección (LOD) y cuantificación (LDQ) de H2S fueron de 0.47 µg/m3 y 1.88 µg/m3, respectivamente. Finalmente, las evaluaciones a distintos tiempos de desarrollo del color azul de metileno fueron robustos, y se pueden trabajar en condiciones normales sin afectar la reproducibilidad de los resultados. El método modificado y optimizado con la presencia de polisacáridos Ulvan fue validado cumpliendo con los parámetros requeridos de aceptación propuestos. De esta manera, se concluyó que el Ulvan representan una potencial alternativa para aplicaciones en la detección de gases contaminantes como el H2S(g).

ABSTRACT Plants traditionally used for medicinal use could be an alternative against SARS-CoV-2. In this study, the binding energy of 10 bioactive compounds of plants used in Mexico against COVID-19 was evaluated by molecular docking with two online servers: COVID-19 Docking Server and DockThor. Remdesivir was used as a control. The results showed that Cypellocarpin B, Cypellocarpin C, Luteolin 7-glucoside, and Syringetin glucopyranoside showed the highest binding energy towards Mpro and RdRp proteins with respect to Remdesivir. The comparison of molecular docking servers showed differences in the docking motors and proteins available on each server. The bioactive compounds evaluated can act as potential inhibitors against Mpro and RdRp proteins of COVID-19, according to in silico molecular docking.

RESUMEN Las plantas utilizadas en la medicina tradicional podrían ser una alternativa frente al SARS-CoV-2. En este estudio se evaluó la energía de unión de los bioactivos de 10 plantas de uso en México contra la COVID-19 mediante acoplamiento molecular con dos servidores que están disponibles en línea: COVID-19 Docking Server y DockThor. Remdesivir se usó como control. Los resultados mostraron que Cypellocarpin B, Cypellocarpin C, Luteolin 7-glucoside y Syringetin glucopyranoside mostraron la mayor afinidad hacia las proteínas Mpro y RdRp con respecto a Remdesivir. La comparación de los servidores de acoplamiento molecular mostró diferencias en los motores de acoplamiento y las proteínas disponibles en cada servidor. Los compuestos bioactivos evaluados son capaces de actuar como inhibidores potenciales frente a las proteínas Mpro y RdRp de COVID-19 según el acoplamiento molecular in silico.

ABSTRACT No-till vegetable farming is a feasible alternative to reduce erosion-induced losses and to increase soil nutrient availability, because cover crop residue protects the soil and its decomposition promotes nutrient cycling, which can improve the yield of the subsequent crop. The present study assessed the production and decomposition of cover crops and the agronomic performance of broccoli grown on this residue using different nitrogen doses in a no-till system. A randomized block design was used, in a split-split plot arrangement of main plots (cover crops), sub-plots (N doses) and sub-sub plots (decomposition times), with four repetitions. Seven cover crops were studied, as follows: [1) signal grass (SG); 2) sunn hemp (SH); 3) pearl millet (PM): 4) SG+SH; 5) SG+PM; 6) SH+PM and 7) SG+SH+PM]; in addition to four doses of nitrogen topdressing [T1) no N application (control); T2) 60 kg/ha N; T3) 90 kg/ha N and T4) 120 kg/ha N]; and five cover crop residue decomposition times: zero (cutting), 15, 30, 60 and 90 days after transplanting (DAT) the broccoli seedlings. Cover crop dry weight (DW) production, residue decomposition, and the head fresh (HFW) and dry weight (HDW) and yield (YLD) of broccoli were assessed. Among the cover crops, sunn hemp and the intercropped SG+SH treatment exhibited the lowest DW production and, along with signal grass, the shortest half-life (T½) and highest residue decomposition rate. The best-performing broccoli plants were those grown using PM, SH and a combination of both as cover crops. The highest broccoli production was obtained using sunn hemp residue, regardless of nitrogen topdressing, with HFW of 788 g/plant and YLD of 30 t/ha.

RESUMO O plantio direto de hortaliças tem sido uma alternativa viável para diminuir as perdas causadas pela erosão e aumentar a disponibilidade de nutrientes no solo, pois a manutenção da palha na superfície protege o solo e, com a decomposição destes resíduos, ocorre a ciclagem de nutrientes. Esse fato pode proporcionar aumento da produtividade das culturas em sucessão. Neste estudo avaliou-se a produção e a decomposição dos resíduos de plantas de cobertura e o desempenho agronômico do brócolis cultivado sobre estes resíduos e com diferentes doses de adubação nitrogenada em sistema de plantio direto. O estudo foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos casualizados, em parcelas subdivididas (doses de N) e sub-subdivididas (tempos de decomposição), com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados sete tipos de cobertura, sendo 1) braquiária (B); 2) crotalária (C); 3) milheto (M); 4) consórcio B+C; 5) B+M; 6) C+M e 7) B+C+M. Foram avaliados também 4 doses de adubação nitrogenada em cobertura, sendo T1) sem aplicação de N (controle); T2) 60 kg/ha de N; T3) 90 kg/ha de N e T4) 120 kg/ha de N. Ainda, avaliamos cinco tempos de decomposição dos resíduos das plantas de cobertura, sendo: zero (manejo), 15, 30, 60 e 90 dias após o transplante das mudas de brócolis. Foram avaliados a produção de massa seca (MS) das coberturas, decomposição dos resíduos, massa fresca (MFC) e seca das cabeças (MSC) e produtividade (PROD) na cultura do brócolis. Crotalária e o consorcio B+C apresentaram a menor produção de MS e junto com a braquiária o menor T½ vida e maior taxa de decomposição dos resíduos. O melhor desempenho do brócolis ocorreu quando as plantas foram cultivadas sobre os resíduos de M, C e nos consórcios destas plantas como coberturas. A maior produção de brócolis ocorreu no cultivo sob os resíduos de crotalária, independente da adição ou não de adubo nitrogenado em cobertura, com MFC de 788 g/planta e PROD de 30 t/ha.

ABSTRACT: Pullorum disease is described worldwide and is caused by Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Gallinarum biovar Pullorum (S. Pullorum). S. Pullorum infection is important in commercial poultry, provoking a systemic disease with high mortality rates. Its occurrence requires notification, and when it is diagnosed in commercial breeding flocks, its eradication is demanded. The aim of this study was to report a severe outbreak of Pullorum disease in young Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris), resulting in 100% mortality of keets (n=290) within the first two weeks of age. All examined keets had enlarged liver, kidneys and spleen (5/5), and the affected tissues were submitted to histological and bacteriological examination. On histopathology, random paratyphoid nodules characterized by areas of necrosis with fibrin and a moderate infiltrate of macrophages and heterophils were observed in the liver. In kidneys, discrete areas of necrosis associated with moderate multifocal infiltrates of lymphocytes, and plasma cells were observed. In the spleen, a moderate infiltrate of macrophages was noticed. Isolation of colonies suggestive of S. Pullorum from liver and spleen was performed in selective agars and, after biochemical tests, confirmed by specific duplex-PCR. The antimicrobial susceptibility test of the isolated strain revealed resistance to only sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim among the tested antimicrobials. The S. Pullorum isolate recovered in the present study was highly pathogenic to N. meleagris and may represent a risk to other avian species, including industrial poultry.

RESUMO: A pulorose é descrita mundialmente e é causada por Salmonella enterica subespécie enterica sorovar Gallinarum biovar Pullorum (S. Pullorum). A infecção por S. Pullorum é importante em aves comerciais, provocando doença sistêmica com altas taxas de mortalidade. Sua ocorrência requer notificação e quando diagnosticada em aves de criação comercial resulta na erradicação do plantel. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar um surto grave de pulorose em filhotes de galinhas-d’Angola (Numida meleagris), resultando em 100% de mortalidade das aves (n=290) nas primeiras duas semanas de idade. Os pintinhos recebidos tinham hepato, espleno e nefromegalia (5/5). Os tecidos dos cinco indivíduos recebidos foram submetidos a exame histológico e bacteriológico. Na histopatologia, foram observados nódulos paratifoides aleatórios caracterizados por áreas de necrose com fibrina e infiltrado moderado de macrófagos e heterófilos no fígado. Nos rins, foram observadas áreas discretas de necrose associadas a infiltrados multifocais moderados de linfócitos e plasmócitos. No baço, foi observado infiltrado moderado de macrófagos. O isolamento de colônias sugestivas de S. Pullorum de fígados e baços foi realizado em ágares seletivos e, após testes bioquímicos, confirmado por duplex-PCR específico. A susceptibilidade antimicrobiana da cepa isolada revelou resistência apenas ao sulfametoxazol + trimetoprim entre os antimicrobianos testados. O isolado de S. Pullorum recuperado no presente estudo foi altamente patogênico para N. meleagris e pode representar um risco para outras espécies de aves, incluindo aves industriais.

Abstract The limitation in the quality of water sources for irrigation in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil is increasingly present, so it is necessary to use water with high concentrations of salts for agricultural production, which makes the use of elicitors essential to mitigate the harmful effects of salinity on plants. Given the above, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of foliar application of salicylic acid on the mineral composition and production of guava plants under salt stress conditions in the post-grafting phase. The experiment was carried out under greenhouse conditions, in a randomized block design, in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme, with two levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water (0.6 and 3.2 dS m-1) and four concentrations of salicylic acid (0, 1.2, 2.4, and 3.6 mM), with three replicates. During the flowering stage of guava, N, P, and K contents accumulated in the leaves according to the following order of concentration: N > K > P. Foliar application of 1.2 mM of salicylic acid increases the leaf contents of N, P, and K in guava plants grown under irrigation with water of 0.6 dS m-1. Water salinity of 3.2 dS m-1 reduces the growth and production components of guava plants.

Resumo A limitação na qualidade das fontes hídricas para irrigação na região semiárida do Nordeste é cada vez mais presente, tornando-se necessário o uso de águas com altas concentrações de sais para produção agrícola, o que torna indispensável à utilização de elicitores para atenuar os efeitos deletérios da salinidade sobre as plantas. Diante do exposto, objetivou-se com esse trabalho avaliar os efeitos da aplicação foliar de ácido salicílico na composição mineral e na produção de plantas de goiabeira sob condições de estresse salino na fase pós-enxertia. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, no delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2 × 4, sendo dois níveis de condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação (0,6 e 3,2 dS m-1) e quatro concentrações de ácido salicílico (0; 1,2; 2,4 e 3,6 mM), com três repetições. Durante a fase de floração da goiabeira, os teores de N, P, K, se acumularam nas folhas segundo a ordem de concentração N > K > P. A aplicação foliar de 1,2 mM de ácido salicílico aumentou os teores foliares de nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio nas plantas de goiabeira cultivadas sob irrigação com água de 0,6 dS m-1. A salinidade da água de 3,2 dS m-1 diminuiu o crescimento e os componentes de produção das plantas de goiabeira.

Abstract Enzymatic (glutathione S-transferase, GST and catalase, CAT) and histological biomarkers in S. herzbergii are important for the analysis of impacted estuaries in port regions of the Brazilian Amazon coast. Fish specimens were collected in two areas in the rainy and dry seasons: Porto Grande (potentially impacted region) and Ilha dos Caranguejos (less impacted region). Sediment samples were collected for chemical analysis. Morphometric, histological, and enzymatic biomarker analyzes were performed. The analysis of the sediments collected in the potentially impacted region showed levels of iron, aluminum and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons above the limits allowed by CONAMA legislation. Histological changes in the gills and liver, as well as GST and CAT activities, were high in fish collected at the port. Analyzes suggest that fish in the potentially impacted region are subject to pollutants that compromise their health.

Resumo Biomarcadores enzimáticos (glutationa S-transferase, GST e catalase, CAT) e histológicos em S. herzbergii são importantes para a análise de estuários impactados em regiões portuárias da costa amazônica brasileira. Espécimes de peixes foram coletados em duas áreas nas estações chuvosa e seca: Porto Grande (região potencialmente impactada) e Ilha dos Caranguejos (região menos impactada). Amostras de sedimento foram coletadas para análise química. Análises morfométricas, histológicas e de biomarcadores enzimáticos foram realizadas. A análise dos sedimentos coletados na região potencialmente impactada mostrou teores de ferro, alumínio e hidrocarbonetos aromáticos policíclicos acima dos limites permitidos pela legislação do CONAMA. As alterações histológicas nas brânquias e no fígado, bem como as atividades de GST e CAT, foram elevadas nos peixes coletados no porto. As análises sugerem que os peixes da região potencialmente impactada estão sujeitos a poluentes que comprometem sua saúde.

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiology and production of sugar-apple as a function of irrigation intervals and foliar application of proline under the conditions of Paraíba’s semi-arid region. A randomized block design was laid out in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme, with treatments resulting from the combination of four irrigation intervals (1, 4, 8 and 12 days) and two concentrations of proline (0 and 10 mM), with four replicates, and the plot consisted of four usable plants. Increase in irrigation intervals reduced the gas exchange of sugar-apple plants at 298 days after transplanting. Exogenous application of proline at concentration of 10 mM increased contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoids and fruit fresh mass in plants grown under 12-day irrigation intervals.

Resumo Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a fisiologia e a produção da pinheira em função dos turnos de rega e aplicação foliar de prolina em condições do semiárido Paraibano. Foi utilizado o delineamento de blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 4 × 2, cujos tratamentos resultam da combinação de quatro turno de rega (1, 4, 8 e 12 dias) e duas concentrações de prolina (0 e 10 mM), com quatro repetições, cuja a parcela foi constituída de quatro plantas úteis. O incremento nos turnos de rega reduziu as trocas gasosas das plantas de pinheira, aos 298 dias após o transplantio. A aplicação de prolina na concentração de 10 mM aumentou o extravasamento de eletrólitos no limbo foliar, a condutância estomática e diminuiu a concentração interna de CO2 das plantas de pinheira. A aplicação exógena de prolina na concentração de 10 mM aumentou os teores de clorofila a, b, total e carotenoides e a massa fresca de frutos nas plantas cultivadas sob turno de rega de 12 dias.