Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Biofloc technology (BFT) systems are sustainable for aquaculture due to the growth of microorganisms in the culture medium that can uptake toxic nitrogen compounds, which generates “in situ” microbial protein that can be eaten, decreasing feed costs. BFT brown (formed with no direct natural light and bacterial dominance) and green (exposed to direct natural light, algal system) waters can be potentially used for aquaponics of commercial halophytes. This study evaluated changes in physical-chemical parameters and macronutrient concentrations of brown and green saline waters of BFT systems, with marine shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) breeding stock, subjected to a one-week recirculation cycle in saline aquaponics with halophytes (Salicornia neei, Apium graveolens and Paspalum vaginatum). For 30 days in the summer of 2019, clarified brown and green waters of BFT systems of L. vannamei were used for aquaponic cultivation of these three halophytes. Water samples were collected before and after one week of water recirculation in the aquaponic systems. Halophytes grow well with both water types. The brown water had a higher phosphate concentration and its nitrate content reduced 3-fold in magnitude after one week of recirculation. The green water had higher average concentrations of nitrate, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfate compared to the brown water, and its nitrate and nitrite contents significantly increased after one week of recirculation. The remediation of dissolved macronutrients using aquaponics can be ineffective for green water types, mainly due to the death and decay of photoautotrophic microorganisms during the water recirculation process inside aquaponic structures.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Cunila galioides Benth. is an aromatic and medicinal plant widely used in the traditional medicine of South Brazil. The essential oil of one of its chemotypes has high citral contents, an oxygenated monoterpene used in perfumery, cosmetics, and food industries. The seeds of C. galioides have low germination percentages and there are few studies regarding its vegetative propagation. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate distinct indole-3-butyric acid concentrations (0 - control, 250, 500, and 1,000 mg∙L-1) on the rooting of herbaceous cuttings of C. galioides and different methods (gibberellic acid, potassium nitrate, and stratification) to overcome a possible dormancy in the seeds. In vegetative propagation, the use of indole-3-butyric acid 250 mg∙L-1 only increased root score relative to the control, and higher IBA concentrations had no effective response on the cuttings, not being necessary to use IBA in C. galioides cuttings. The most effective treatments regarding seed germination were gibberellic acid and potassium nitrate, with germination percentages of 57.8 % and 54.5 %, respectively; stratification was not effective in increasing the germination percentage of the seeds relative to the control.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Agricultural wastes are an environmental and economic problem that countries must strive to solve as soon as possible. White-rot fungi can take advantage of these wastes through an efficient process involving the bioconversion of lignocellulosic materials. Therefore, this work has used pine needles (Pinus pseudostrobus) and nutshells (Carya illinoinensis), relevant wastes in Mexico, as substrates for growing three fungal strains (Ganoderma lucidum, Lentinula edodes, and Pleurotus ostreatus) on PDA plates supplemented with these materials. Besides, the capacity to produce lignocellulolytic enzymes by these three fungi through solid-state fermentation has been evaluated using pine needles and nutshells along with barley straw. The relevant results suggest that nutshells are a potential substrate for growing G. lucidum (mycelial growth rate of 0.758 cm d-1). Albeit pine needles waste has allowed G. lucidum growth (0.402 cm d-1), L. edodes and P. ostreatus growth on PDA supplemented plates were not observed. Further to this, nutshells or pine needles combined with barley straw were used as substrates through solid-state fermentation to produce lignocellulolytic enzymes (cellulase, xylanase, and laccase). G. lucidum presented the highest cellulase productivity (3.03 ± 0.34 IU/gdm·d) using nutshells and barley straw (BS_NS) as substrates, while it was half using pine needles and barley straw (BS_PN) (1.35 ± 0.20 IU/gdm·d). The results were similar for xylanase productivity because G. lucidum produced 4.80 ± 0.61 IU/gdm·d using BS_PN, slightly higher than the BS_NS (3.79 ± 0.29 IU/gdm·). Finally, nutshells might be a suitable substrate for the growth of white-rot fungi, mainly the G. lucidum strain, making it an ecological alternative for future biotechnological applications.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Fusarium culmorum produces polyketide-structured aurofusarin and its precursor metabolites. Aurofusarin biosynthetic pathway is catalysed by the products of eleven genes located in gene cluster. In this study, the effects of the expression levels of Pks12, Gip6, and Gip7, responsible genes for the intracellular steps of the pathway, on pigmentation were investigated in an F. culmorum field isolate. Presence of three genes were determined via PCR and sequencing. Their expressions were investigated by qPCR at 48th, 72nd, 120th and 168th hours. Aurofusarin and rubrofusarin production were verified by HPLC at the same time periods. Mycelial pigmentation, which was initially white, turned yellow, then carmine red during the seven-day culture. Pks12, Gip6, Gip7 genes with 1282, 449 and 1278 bps had sequence similarities (86,6%, 99,4% and 80,5% respectively) with the genes of reference (FcUK99). The ΣCp values of all genes ranged from 29th to 32nd cycles, whereas the Σ∆∆Ct values were calculated between 9,59 E-02 and 1,30 E-02. Relative quantification revealed these genes were controlled by down-regulation compared to the β-tubulin expression. Aurofusarin quantities ranged from 2,355 ppm to 27,350 ppm between the 72nd and 168th hours whereas the yield of rubrofusarin decreased from 0,098 ppm to 0,063 ppm. (4) Conclusion: This study becomes first report for both investigating the expression levels of the genes responsible for the catalysis of intracellular steps of aurofusarin biosynthesis in F. culmorum, and for examining the relationship between gene expression and mycelium pigmentation.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The demands of high-quality zucchini fruits by the consumer market make studies regarding the improvement of cultivation systems, such as plant nutrition and salinity tolerance. Considering the demands of the consumer market for the high quality of zucchini fruits, it is necessary studies regarding the improvement of production systems for this improvement, such as nutrition and salinity tolerance to plant. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the zucchini fruits quality characteristics, grown in soilless, under N:K ratios, and levels of electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution. The experiment was conducted in a protected environment in pots with 8.2 dm3 of volumetric capacity filled with commercial substrate. The trial design adopted was randomized blocks, with three replicates, in a 5x3 factorial scheme, with five levels of electrical conductivity (1.0; 2.0; 3.0; 4.0; and 5.0 dS m-1) and three N:K ratios (2:1; 1:1; and 1:2), both in the nutrient solution. The application of the nutrient solution was by fertigation through drip irrigation. Throughout the experiment, variables related to fruit quality and total plant biomass production were analyzed. The increase of the electrical conductivity in the nutrient solution provided an increase in the values of fruits organoleptic properties. Regarding the nutrient solution N:K ratios, the 1:2 ratio provided larger fruits and a higher percentage of water.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Intensive growth of the pigeonpea crop in Central and South India, caused by adequate rainfall, resulted in taller plants with fewer fruited branches, leading to lower yields. However, pigeonpea crops could produce more pods if they restricted apical growth. Nipping (Cutting off the top growing portion) and planting distances are effective techniques to control apical dominance. Thus, there is a need to explore the benefits of simple techniques like nipping and planting distance, suppressing apical dominance. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the best nipping time and planting distance for pigeonpea in a rainfed environment to increase productivity. The experiment was conducted at the Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (Agricultural University), Akola (Maharashtra), India, between 2018 and 2020. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with two factors with three replications. There were three timings of nipping (45 days after planting, 60 days after planting, and no nipping) and four planting distances (90cm x 30cm, 120cm x 30cm, 150cm x 30cm, and 180cm x 30cm). Results indicated that early loss of apical dominance due to the nipping at 45 days after planting resulted in reduced plant height, increased branches, dry-matter accumulation, pods per plant, and markedly increased pigeon pea productivity by 11 percent. In addition, Pigeonpea crops' growth and yield parameters improved when planted at 180cm x 30cm. However, growing pigeonpea at a distance of 90cm x 30cm resulted in significantly higher pigeonpea seed yield, harvest index, and rainwater use efficiency than planting at a wider spacing.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract During the storage period of dry tobacco and its derivatives, insect pests such as species of Ephestia Guenée (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), popularly known as moths, cause damage to the product, being controlled mainly with physical practices and synthetic chemicals, although with limitations on their use and results. Some biological control agents, such as the parasitoid Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), have the potential to control these pests. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of H. hebetor release in tobacco farms and industrial warehouses, on the infestation of Ephestia spp. adults. Parasitoids were released in tobacco farmers and tobacco industry warehouses between 2016-2018, comprising two years/crop seasons. Each release consisted of 1,000 parasitoids (four times) in tobacco farmers warehouses (70 m2) and 30,000 (five times) in tobacco industry warehouses (8,000 m2). Pheromone-baited sticky traps were used to weekly monitor the average number of adults of Ephestia spp. in warehouses with (WP) and without parasitoid release (NP). The average number of adults of Ephestia spp. captured in the traps in WP environments at farmers and industry level was significantly lower than the average captured in NP from the third and fifth weeks. In the following weeks, the averages of Ephestia spp. were always significantly lower in the WP environments until the end of monitoring. Therefore, the use of H. hebetor for moth control should be considered as part of a biological control program in stored tobacco environments.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Nitrogen uptake is essential for coffee growth and development, resulting in important effects on the biomass and final crop yield. Thus, like most nutrients, nitrogen is absorbed by the roots using water as a mean of transport, so that water stress and nitrogen can directly and indirectly affect various physiological processes. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the nitrogen metabolism in young plants of four varieties of coffee trees (Coffea arabica L.) submitted to water deficit (WD) and nitrogen supply. We have done a triple factorial (2 x 4 x 4) experiment entirely randomized. The plots received combinations of high or low N doses (7mmol/L and 2.8 mmol/L NO3 -), four water potentials (0; -0.4; -0.8; and -1.6 Mpa), and four varieties (Mundo Novo IAC379-19, Acauã F6 of IBC - PR 82010, Catuaí Vermelho IAC 44, and Catuaí Amarelo IAC 62). One hundred and forty days after the I of the experiment (140 days after the beginning of N stress and 82 days after the beginning of WD stress) the activity of the enzymes nitrate reductase (NR) and glutamine synthetase (GS), concentration of nitrate, free proline, amino acids (TAA), and total proteins were determined in samples of leaf and root tissues. There were differences between varieties independently of WD and N dose for leaf NR, being ‘Acauã’ the cultivar that presented the highest and ‘Catuaí Vermelho’ the lowest value to this trait. The WD promoted an increase on the proline concentration in the roots. With low N dose, the activity of GS presented linear increases in response to WD. It was concluded that in young coffee plants under WD, proline can be involved in the osmotic adjustment, having its synthesis in the roots increased. Under WD, plants with good nitrogen nutrition presented larger leaf concentration of soluble amino acids and total soluble proteins. The varieties studied do not present differentiated responses to WD.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Tomato mosaic disease caused by Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) reduces tomato crop production globally. Biocontrol measures using various rhizobacteria and algae have been developed to reduce the adverse effects of plant diseases. To this end, two rhizobacteria (probiotic bacteria) including Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus subtilis, and aqueous extract of brown alga (Sargassum angustifolium) were applied. A certain concentration of bacterial suspension was added to the tomato rhizosphere along with the aqueous extract of brown alga and the plants were subsequently inoculated with ToMV. Semi-quantitative indirect-ELISA was performed to estimate the virus titer within inoculated plants. Also, the disease severity index was determined by visual scoring of the plants at 14 and 28 days post-inoculation. Growth indices of plants were evaluated and the data were statistically analyzed. The results showed that multiple treatments of the rhizobacteria and the aqueous extract of brown alga reduced the disease severity to 27.46%, and inhibit the ToMV accumulation up to 86.48% in tomato plants. Moreover, the growth indices of tomato plants pre-treated with a combination of the rhizobacteria and brown alga extract were significantly improved. Taken together, the results suggest that these biocontrol agents have a synergistic effect and their simultaneous application can, therefore, reduce the crop loss caused by ToMV.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Drought stress, which is becoming more frequent and severe, restricts grain production. It is critical to choose wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars that are drought-resistant enough in progressively arid climates. Early physiological and biochemical responses were measured by applying drought stress to susceptible Bezostaja-1 and tolerant Tosunbey wheat cultivars with three different PEG-6000 concentrations to understand the reliability, selectivity and practicality of tested parameters. Depending on the elevated drought, lengths, fresh-dry-turgor weights, relative water content of both root and stem decreased, and chloropyll amounts increased similarly but in different dimensions in both cultivars. While a decrease was observed in the total thiol content of both, it was determined that this value was 10 times higher in Bezostaja-1 cultivar. While proline amounts peaked at the most severe drought, this value was found to be 2.5 times higher in Bezostaja-1 than in Tosunbey. The protein content is 35% higher in Bezostaja-1. In contrast to glutathione S-transferase theta1 (GSTT1) isozyme, total GST activity increased 53.1% in Bezostaja-1 and 33.6% in Tosunbey, compared to control. This average values are about three times higher in Bezostaja-1 compared to Tosunbey. Of the experimental groups whose band profiles were generated by SDS-PAGE and compared with UPGMA and neighbor-joining methods, moderate to high drought samples of Bezostaja-1 showed explicitly different results and possibly a metabolically distinct response from all others. Besides frequently used ones, total thiol content, total GST activity and changes in the protein bands could be used as useful parameters in the selection of drought-resistant cultivars.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Probiotics are live microorganisms that when ingested in adequate amounts help in the balance of the intestinal microbiota. Kefir is considered a probiotic beverage associated with the improvement of several pathologies. Fruit juices are considered an excellent culture medium for these microorganisms, presenting nutrients that favor microbial growth. This work aimed to prepare a probiotic drink from the fermentation of whole grape juice by microorganisms from the water kefir. Different amounts of kefir grains were tested (5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 g) in 500 mL of grape juice. The fermentation processes were developed under static conditions at room temperature for 24 h. Seven formulations were tested for physical-chemical and microbiological analyses. A questionnaire on the knowledge and consumption of probiotics was applied to the academic community. Three formulations were selected for sensory analysis and stored under refrigeration. All formulations showed growth of lactic acid bacteria and no reduction in storage viability. A significant reduction in soluble solids was observed in all formulations, and an increase in acidity and pH formulations with 5 and 20 g of kefir, respectively. About 64% of the participants reported knowing the definition of probiotics. In addition, a low intake of this product was observed. The formulation with 5 grams of water kefir grains was better accepted by the consumers when compared to the others. Thus, grape juice can be a great alternative to consume probiotic microorganisms, especially for those who do not consume dairy products.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Soybean is the main oilseed crop in the world, and one of the main challenges for its production is the Anticarsia gemmatalis management, especially in agroecological production systems. In this study, it was analyzed the impact of dynamized solutions applied to soybean plants and pro-vided as food to A. gemmatalis on insect biology. Solutions tested include: Calcarea carbonica 4CH, Carbo vegetabilis 12CH, Staphysagria 4CH, A. gemmatalis nosode 12CH, Soybean nosode 4CH, and control of distilled water. Biological characteristics analyzed include: weight of caterpillars at the beginning and end of the 4th instar, dry weight of pupa, caterpillar length at 4th instar, duration of cycle, emergence of adults, fecundity of females, and ingestion, ingested food conversion efficiency, and efficiency of digested food conversion. At the beginning and at the end of the 4th instar, caterpillars fed soybean leaves treated with homeopathic substances showed reduced body weight relative to the distilled water control. The dynamized solutions tested are promising as an efficient alternative method for the control of A. gemmatalis, promoting lower conversion of food into biological efficiency and biomass.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In addition to destroying the leaves, stems, pods, and grains of soybean (Glycine max), Spodoptera frugiperda larvae may also have the cut off behavior in the seedlings close to the ground, harming the establishment of the soybean crop. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the consequences of the fall armyworm attack by adopting the cut off behavior, which has been similarly documented for black cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon) in newly emerged soybean plants. The treatments were five levels of infestation with 0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 larvae per m2. Three variables were assessed: (1) stand (relationship between attacked and initial number of plants), (2) types and amounts of injured structures, such as hypocotyl (embryonic shoot), and the cotyledons (seed leaves), and (3) level of defoliation. The variables were collected every 24 hours until the pupal stage. Additionally, the final stand of the seedlings was quantified, with the highest injury intensity observed in the plots that contained the highest number of larvae. In the second experiment, the dynamics of movement and attacks of plants by S. frugiperda larvae at the following times of the day: 07:00, 10:00, 13:00, 16:00, 19:00 and 21:00 were analyzed with supervised machine learning models. The injury caused by S. frugiperda with the behavior of the cut off and the voracity of the larvae were evident in the structures (hypocotyl and cotyledons) of the evaluated plants. The results of the present study emphasize the need to manage S. frugiperda during the preplanting phase of soybean.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Iris sari Schott ex Baker, an endemic plant, has a natural distribution in Turkey. The plant, also known as “Ana kurtkulağı, Bahar çiçeği” among the people, has showy flowers. Chromosome doubling in the plant was successfully performed with colchicine applied to the micro bulbs of the I. sari obtained in vitro. The different colchicine doses and treatment times tested with I. sari were: 0.1 and 0.5% (2, 4, and 6 hours). The resulting polyploid plantlets were determined by flow cytometric analysis. The highest tetraploid plant yield was observed after 4 h of treatment with 0.1% colchicine. From a total of 45 surviving plantlets, 3 were detected. At the end of the applications, the control and other groups were compared in terms of the viability rates of plants. After 2 subcultures of in vitro conditions, the highest viability rate in plantlets was observed with the control group and 0.1% colchicine for 4 h application, 62.97%, and 67.12%, respectively. Also, I. sari putative tetraploid plantlets had fewer and larger stomata than the control, confirming the data. Although the best ratios in terms of stomata length and width (49.04 and 30.52 mm) were come off after 4 h of 0.5% colchicine treatment, tetraploid was not obtained as a result of this application.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Wheat is the most widely cultivated food crop on the planet, and it feeds the majority of the world's population. The field experiment was performed from 2019 to 2021 in the eastern part of Loess Plateau, China Nitrogen (N) fertilizer application improves winter wheat yield. It was necessary to analyze the nitrogen utilization of different varieties and screen varieties with high yield and high nitrogen utilization. Six dryland wheat varieties YH-20410, YH-618, YH-805, JM-92, C-6359, and LH-6 were selected to compare the differences in nitrogen uptake and utilization yield, and quality. The aim was to provide theoretical basis for high yield, and high-efficiency wheat production in dryland of southeast loess Plateau. The results showed that the rainfall during the fallow period from 2019 to 2021 was 245.5 mm and 288.9 mm, respectively, and the nitrogen application rate was 180 kg ha-1.The highest transshipment amount, and transshipment rate of nitrogen before anther were found in YH-618, which reached 79.4 kg ha-1 and 58.6%, respectively. The yield of wheat cultivar YH-20410 was the highest, reaching 4890 kg ha-1, which was significantly higher than that of YH-805, JM-92, C-6359 and LH-6, but there was no significant difference of YH-618. The grain protein content of YH-618 was the highest (15.2%), which was not significantly different from that of JM-92, YH-805 and LH-6, but significantly higher than that of YH-20410, and C-6359, respectively. Therefore, in high-yield years, fallow cultivation can help adjust the relationship among the components, promote a reasonable distribution, and improve yield.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Mycoplasma agalactiae is an economically important pathogen and the main etiological agent of contagious agalactiae (CA) in small ruminants with a relatively high prevalence in sheep and goat, mainly characterized by mastitis, conjunctivitis and arthritis as predominant symptoms of a localized infection. Two genes encoding p48 and p40 major surface lipoprotein are played a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of Mycoplasma agalactiae. In this study a chimeric protein P48-40 of Mycoplasma agalactiae was designed, expressed, purified and evaluated in indirect ELISA. Coding sequence of antigenic regions of two p48 and p40 proteins was cloned into the expression vector Pet32a+ then expressed successfully into the E. coli BL21 (DE3) at optimal temperature 22oC after 4 hours with 0.1mM IPTG as an inducer. Affinity batch formation method was done for purification of recombinant P48-40 by using Nickel resin. The protein was highly expressed in soluble form and purified with yield of 33mg/L. Function of recombinant protein in indirect ELISA was evaluated and the results showed that 125ng of novel P48-40 protein could well detect specific antibodies with 100% sensitivity and Specificity by indirect ELISA. We concluded that the recombinant p48-40 protein could be applied for serodiagnosis of Mycoplasma agalactiae or evaluation of antibody levels in vaccinated animal.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The main aim of this study was to determine the changes in quality properties and bioactive compounds of 3 crab apple species (Malus evereste, Malus floribunda and Malus floribunda coccinella) harvested at 5 different edible maturity stages. Acidity, soluble solids, organic acid and sugar contents were determined in the whole apple. The fleshes and peels of the crab apples were analyzed for antioxidant activities, color, protein, total monomeric anthocyanin, and total phenolic contents. Maturity stage had no significant effect on size, pH, titratable acidity, and citric acid content of crab apples. Peels of all three species had higher total phenolic, monomeric anthocyanin, tannin, and protein concentrations than their fleshes. M. evereste was the richest source of total phenolic and tannin among the species and it exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. Unlike the total phenolic compounds, anthocyanin accumulation was the highest in the flesh of M. floribunda. Concentrations of sugars in all species increased throughout the maturity. While the highest levels of glucose and fructose determined in M. evereste at the last stage, sucrose concentration was higher in M. floribunda that those in other two species at all stages. The trend in malic acid accumulation showed differences between the species. As a result, it can be concluded that the fruits of all species can be harvested in the first two weeks of September.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Scutellaria bornmuelleri is recognized as a medicinal plant and a rich source of terpenoids. Hairy Root Cultures (HRCs) along with elicitation of in vitro cultures have been widely considered in order to produce important secondary metabolites such as terpenoids. In the present study, S. bornmuelleri HRCs were established by transformation of stem explants with Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain A4. The effect of different concentrations of sucrose on transgenic root induction and biomass production were investigated. The production and accumulation of terpenoids in HRCs elicited with chitosan (CS), methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was evaluated using Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Among various concentrations of sucrose, half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2.5% sucrose resulted in significant increase in transformation frequency and maximum root biomass production. The highest sesquiterpene production was observed in HRCs elicited with 100 mg L-1 CS. However, the highest monoterpene accumulation was occurred in HRCs treated with 100 µM MeJA. Among the combined treatments, the highest sesquiterpene and monoterpene yield was achieved by 0.7 and 7 mM β-CD plus MeJA as well as 50 and 100 mg L-1 CS plus MeJA, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, the results of this study for the first time suggested that eliciting HRCs can be an effective method to accumulate sesquiterpenes in large scale cultures of S. bornmuelleri HRs in bioreactor.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Both ‘0900 Ziraat’ and ‘Regina’ grafted on ‘Krymsk 5’, or ‘Piku 1’ rootstocks were trained to either Upright Fruiting Offshoots (UFO), Super Slender Axe (SSA) or Kym Green Bush (KGB) training systems. Vegetative growth of the tree, determined by measuring trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), canopy volume and leaf area, differed significantly, depending on the cultivar x rootstock x training system combination. In general, ‘Krymsk 5’ rootstock resulted in trees with significantly thicker trunks (TCSA: 37.75 cm2) and increased leaf area (up to 86.97 cm2). Fruit weight and fruit quality parameters including Hunter a*, firmness, TSS and acidity were variable between rootstocks and training systems and often not significantly different between treatments. In some years however, significant differences were highly dependent on the training system and rootstock interactions. Higher concentrations of bioactive phytochemical concentrations for total monomeric anthocyanin and antioxidant concentrations were mostly associated with the UFO training system in conjunction with the ‘Krymsk 5’ rootstock suggesting that these are linked to increased tree vigour and increased leaf surface area.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Studies about the viability and vigor of seeds during storage, especially on the characterization of enzymatic changes, may increase the harvesting efficiency of immature seeds and guarantee their viability for a prolonged period. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the behavior of immature seeds of Tabebuia caraiba during storage. For this, thirty selected mother plants at the anthesis stage located in São João do Cariri and Sumé, Paraíba, Brazil were selected. Flowers of each tree were marked, and the fruits were harvested at 35, 42, and 49 days after anthesis (DAA) and characterized according to their maturation stages. The seeds from each maturation stage and city were packed in paper bags and stored in a refrigerator (6 ± 2 °C) for 360 days. The seed quality, seedling vigor, and enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POX) were evaluated at the beginning of the storage period and intervals of 90 days. The seeds of T. caraiba harvested at 35, 42, and 49 DAA maintained high viability for 360 days of storage. T. caraiba seeds stored for 360 days withstood with high vigor when harvested at 42 DAA. The CAT, SOD, and POX activity was correlated to the deterioration process of the seeds under storage conditions.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The determination of the optimum dose of radiation through its impacts on the growth attributes of the crop is the prerequisite for successful induced mutation breeding. For evaluating the impact of different doses of gamma radiation on wheat (Triticum aestivum), two wheat varieties DBW 187 and K 1006 were irradiated at six different doses (200, 250, 300, 350, 400 and 450 Gy) using a Cobalt-60 source at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India. Seed germination, survivability and seedling length of the irradiated seeds were measured at 7 days after sowing in laboratory experiments, while plant height, panicle length, grains per panicle and 1000 seed weight was recorded for field studies. It was observed that seed germination, survivability and seedling length declined with the increase in gamma radiation dose. The germination percentage showed significant differences among treatments (100 to 75%), while the survival percentage exhibited significant differences from 200 to 300 Gy in both the varieties. The LD50 for DBW 187 and K 1006 were found to be 272.71 and 278.61 respectively, while the GR50 values were 316.22 and 346.73 for DBW 187 and K 1006 respectively under laboratory conditions. The GR50 for field observations were 341.19 Gy and 339.70 Gy for DBW 187 and K 1006 respectively. Hence, the gamma radiation dose between 250 Gy and 300 Gy was found optimum to obtain desirable results. The obtained dose could be used to generate highest mutation mediated changes with least lethal effects in the subsequent generations of wheat.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The present study was carried out to determine the effect of quince rootstocks (BA29, QA and MC) on plant growth, fruit quality and yield of ‘Santa Maria’ pear cultivar in 2020 and 2021. In this study, significant differences were determined by all growth, yield and quality parameters except for trunk diameter (TD), trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), canopy volume, fruit stalk thickness, acidity, total soluble solids (TSS) in terms of research years and rootstocks from analysis of variance. Tree height, annual shoot length, leaf area, fruit weight, fruit width, and fruit length was lower in the MC rootstock than in the others. In the case of research years, out of annual shoot growth in 2020, all other parameters were higher in 2021. Fruit stalk length, fruit stalk thickness and fruit firmness were higher on MC rootstock than BA29 and QA. There was an insignificant difference between rootstocks in terms of TSS. The highest L* was in QA and MC; chroma was in QA and hue angle was in BA29 rootstock. The number of fruit was the highest (139.01 pieces/tree) in BA29 in 2021 and the lowest in MC (11.97 pieces/tree) in 2020. The highest yield per tree (30.62 kg), yield per hectare (58484.2 kg), yield per trunk cross-sectional area (2.24 kg/cm2) and yield per canopy volume (71.21 kg/m3) were measured in QA in 2021. In conclusion, the yield efficiency of ‘Santa Maria’ pear cultivar under high density planting on QA was better than other combinations in 2021. Since the plants on which the research is carried out are still young, it may be recommended to continue the research for many years to determine the most suitable rootstock.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In the Agriculture sector, the farmers need a reliable estimation for pre-harvest crop yield prediction to decide their import-export policies. The present work aims to assess the impact of remote sensing-based derived products with Climate data on the accuracy of a prediction model for the sugarcane yield. The regression method was used to develop an empirical model based on VCI, Historical Sugarcane Yield, and Climatic Parameters of 75 districts of six major sugar-producing states of India. The MOD13Q1 product of MODIS on Board Terra Satellite at 16-day intervals was accessed during the growing season of sugarcane crop with 36 meteorological parameters for experimentation. The accuracy of the model was evaluated using R2, Root Mean square Metric (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and mean square error (MSE). The preliminary results concluded that the proposed methodology achieved the highest accuracy with (R2 =0.95, MAE=5.18, MSE=34.5, RMSE=5.87). The conclusion of the study highlighted that the coefficient of determination can be improved significantly by incorporating maximum and minimum temperature parameters with Remote sensing derived vegetation indices for the sugarcane yield.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract High temperature at reproductive stage causes a decrease in seed set that ultimately results in yield loss in important crops. Limited research is available regarding the effect of high temperature on viability attributes of pollen grain in sunflower. This study was planned to reveal the effects of high temperature stress on pollen grains in sunflower. An experiment was laid out in a triplicated Completely Randomized Design with split-split plot arrangements at the Oilseeds Research Institute, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute Faisalabad during spring 2021. Two temperature treatments T1 = 45° C for 10, 20 and 30 minutes, and T2 = 50° C for 3, 5 and 10 minutes were used on 10 sunflower inbred lines. Normal (untreated) pollen grains were used as control (T0). Data were collected on pollen viability, pollen germination, and pollen tube length. Recorded data were subjected to analysis of variance, Tukey’s HSD mean comparison test, and correlation. According to the results, ORI-1 showed the highest mean for pollen viability, whereas, RL-86 had highest mean for pollen germination and pollen tube length under normal conditions. RL-86 and ORI-73 revealed their ability to withstand both heat stresses as all pollen traits were least affected under high temperature stresses. It is advised to incorporate these inbred lines in future breeding programs aimed at the development of heat tolerant sunflower hybrids. Moreover, correlation studies displayed a positive, strong and highly significant relation of pollen germination with pollen tube length under normal and heat stress conditions revealing their importance in pollen study and reproduction.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In vitro multiplication is the main method for seedling production of Comanthera mucugensis, an endangered ornamental plant. The technique consists of cultivating plant tissues under aseptic conditions, controlled environment, and using appropriate culture medium. The physical characteristics of the medium are mainly determined by the presence of a gelling agent. Agar is the most used substance on the in vitro cultivation of C. mucugensis, however, it is one of the most costly components to manufacture the medium. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of κ-carrageenan as an alternative gelling agent in the propagation of C. mucugensis. The seeds and stem explants were cultured on medium gelled with agar or κ-carrageenan, both at 7 g L-1 concentration. The results indicated that the plants established in medium with κ-carrageenan presented an increase in length and induced formation of shoots. Direct organogenesis was also improved with the use of this gelling agent. In comparison, agar culture presented the lowest rate of direct regeneration and the lowest number of shoots. In addition, gelation with κ-carrageenan was efficient in increasing the frequency of callogenesis, as well as, the highest callus regeneration and number of shoots per callus. Rooting was not affected by the type of gelling agent. The substitution of agar for κ-carrageenan can represent a reduction of 23.2% in the cost of manufacturing the culture medium for in vitro propagation of C. mucugensis.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The world is currently facing a severe economic crisis and the rational consumption and reuse of products, including waste are necessary. Agriculture wastes have importance containing beneficial and economic value matters, which unutilized may lead to environmental pollution. Date seed is one of these viable wastes with high nutritional value. Mass rearing of peach fruit flies is important to produce parasitoids for use in biological control programs or sterile insect techniques. In this study powder of date seeds were evaluated as an alternative diet for mass rearing of peach fruit fly Bactrocera zonata. The nutrient composition of the tested diet that contained date seed powder was rich in crude proteins (13.1%), crude carbohydrates (40.41), crude fats (4.6), crude fibers (8.4), and ashes (0.29). The results indicated that the date seed powder produced insects with quality parameters equivalent to FAO, IAEA/USDA standards, without differences with those reared on yeast. The histology of the reproductive system of B. zonata reveals that the female ovariole is of meristic-polytrophic type with successive stages of egg chambers. The male testis has a single long follicle with successive stages of spermatogenesis. Thus, date seed powder is a potential alternative diet for use in the mass rearing of the peach fruit fly.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Classical Quantitative Genetics offers statistical approaches to estimate variance components of important agronomical traits, such as diseases resistance, through different experimental designs. However, the use of RIL in these approaches is limited. As Recombinant Inbred Lines are considered important for developing special breeding projects, we propose a new methodological approach to simultaneously estimate broad and narrow sense heritabilities. This proposed model was applied to calculate heritabilities for resistance to corn ear rots caused by Fusarium verticillioides in three independent RIL populations analyzed by nested ANOVA. Fusarium Incidence (%) and Fusarium Severity heritabilities were significant. The proposed approach proved to be useful for estimating broad and narrow sense heritabilities in the same environment and with these genotypes which is advantageous for corn breeders.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Five dry beans (Kınalı, Alberto, Great, Göynük and Özmen) were selected for high calcareous soils tolerance and used as parents in a full diallel method in 2019. F1 and its parents were grown in the experimental field of the Faculty of Agriculture of Selcuk University with high lime content in 2020 with three replications. Variations for seed yield and its component maintenance were detected between parents and F hybrids grown on high calcareous soils, and some crosses were found to outperform their parents. Significant general combination ability (GCA) and special combination ability (SCA) were observed for seed yield per plant and components including plant height, pods per plant, seeds per pod, seeds per plant, hundred seed weight, protein ratio and protein yield per plant. While non-additive gene effects were effective in plant height, pod height, number of seeds per pod, seed yield per plant, protein ratio, and protein yield per plant, it was determined that additive gene effects were effective in other investigated traits. Garrafol was had the highest GCA for seed yield. The “Alberto x Kınalı”, “Özmen x G Northern 59”, “G Northern 59 x Özmen”, Özmen x Kınalı”, “Kınalı x Alberto” and “Göynük x Kınalı” crosses exhibited high SCA effects for seed yield per plant. These hybrids are the most promising combination, and it is appropriate to carry out selection processes by evaluating seed yield and yield components together in future generations.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Microalgae have been widely studied as raw materials for biofuels, food supplements and several high value products. The hypothesis is that the pH and N levels in the culture medium are important factors to increase microalgae biomass production and its by-products. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate response of Neochloris oleoabundans to sodium nitrate concentration and pH levels by assessing biomass production, pigments, total lipid content and lipid profile of cells. The experimental design was a complete factorial with two factors: sodium nitrate (NaNO3) using the doses of 0.25, 1.12 and 2.5 g L-1 and pH 5.0, 7.0 and 9.0, resulting in nine treatments and three replicates. Differences in the N concentration and pH of the in Bold’s basal medium increased up to 21.1% the production of dry biomass but also up to 36% of lipids and up to of 0.81% of carotenoid concentration in the N. oleoabundans cell. The nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis of bio-oil showed changes in the lipid profile. Oil extracted from N. oleoabundans cells growing in medium at pH 9 and in 2.5 g L−1 of NaNO3 showed fatty acids with molecular weights similar to crude soybean oil, while the oil from treatment 3 (2.5 NaNO3 g L−1) showed a slight increase in molecular weight. Overall, the best adjustment of the liquid medium to grow N. oleoabundans is at pH 9.0 and with addition of 2.5 g of sodium nitrate.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is one of the main physiological parameters of the plant related to transpiration, productivity and rainfall interception. Among the methods to determine the LAI, the use of remote sensing that estimates the LAI through image processing techniques stands out. Thus, the objective of this work was to estimate the LAI for industrial tomatoes from orbital remote sensing images and validate the results with the LAI obtained by the destructive method. The study was carried out in an area irrigated by a central pivot in the municipality of Vila Propício of Goiás. The leaf area was determined from georeferenced sampling in a regular grid of 60x60m, to calculate the SAVI and IAF vegetation index, 4 images obtained through the Sentinel satellite were used in the period from 07/01/2018 to 07/31/2018 where the culture is in the second phase of the vegetative cycle. The LAI estimated by the orbital remote sensing showed good results compared to the LAI obtained through the destructive method. The estimated leaf area index was not completely homogeneous, as part of the pivot showed better results, with a growth in the vegetative development phase and a decrease in the maturation phase of the crop. The values of the statistical analysis of the real LAI compared to the estimated LAI were very close, but the coefficient of variation showed a greater difference between them, indicating that there may be a greater variation in the estimate.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The Very High Gravity (VHG) fermentation is a technology that can lead to a reduction in waste generation, a reduction in energy consumption and GHG emissions and several technical, economic, and environmental advantages. Having, as a limiting factor, yeast tolerance to the most diverse stressors in the fermentation medium. To overcome this limitation, the aim of the work was to verify the potential protective effect of silica (+A) on Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Ethanol Red®) submitted to VHG fermentation. Initially, an adaptive test to VHG fermentation was carried out, with 5 cell recycles in musts from sugar cane syrup. Each recycle was subjected to the treatments, in quadruplicate: T1C (control) - Wort without silica supplementation; T2S100- Wort with supplementation of 100 mg L-1 of silica and T3S300- Wort with supplementation of 300 mg L -1 of silica. As a result, the T3S300 treatment in the adaptive test, showed viability of 77.5 to 81.55%; biomass production from 8.1 to 10.0 g L-1; yield from 90.0 to 95.3% and productivity from 7.3 to 10.9 mL L-1h-1. In conclusion, the treatment of the wort with silica (+A) (100 and 300 mg L-1) has an effect protector on yeast and may present positive responses in VHG fermentations.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Physiological and yield evaluation of perennial forage plants grown in intercropping in the semiarid region is indispensable in the search for higher efficiency of the agricultural and livestock production systems. In this context, an experiment was carried out at the Experimental Station of the National Institute of the Semiarid Region - INSA, in the municipality of Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil, to evaluate the physiological efficiency and yield of prickly pear and gliricidia in intercropping. Treatments were distributed in randomized blocks, with six replicates, being represented by four spacings between gliricidia plants: S1 (1.0 m), S2 (1.5 m), S3 (2.0 m) and S4 (3.0 m) x 2.30 m between rows. Prickly pear was planted in double rows of 1.5 m x 0.8 m x 0.5 m. The analyzed variables were initial, maximum and variable fluorescence chlorophyll a, variable/initial fluorescence ratio, potential quantum yield and the fresh matter yield of both crops. Density planting of gliricidia up to 4,348 plants ha-1 increases its photochemical efficiency and yield, but reduces light energy capture by prickly pear in intercropping, whereas its yield is not influenced by cultivation density. Regardless of gliricidia density, prickly pear yield was not influenced.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract An investigation on tomato was conducted at PAU, Ludhiana during 2020-21 with an objective of developing hybrids possessing maximum harvesting span with desirable horticultural traits. Experimental material, comprised of 56 F1 hybrids, 18 parental lines and standard check ‘PTH-2’, were transplanted in randomized complete block design in three replicates. Evaluation for all the experimental material was carried out during main as well as spring season. Cross combinations viz., PAU 114×nor-RM-1, PAU 2381×nor-RM-1 in main season while, crosses LT-44×rin-Rutgers, PAU 2381×rin-Rutgers in spring season recorded significant heterobeltosis and heterosis over check for yield and quality traits. Out of 56 hybrids, CLN1621L×alc-IIHR-2050, LT-44×rin-Rutgers in main as well as spring season, PAU 2381×nor-RM-1, Leader×nor-RM-1, LT-42×alc-IIHR-2050 and Roma×nor-RM-1 in main season and PAU 2381×rin-Rutgers, FL-556×rin-Rutgers, FL-556×alc-IIHR-2050 and LT-44×alc-IIHR-2050 in spring season were best for prolonged harvesting span vis-à-vis fruit yield, weight, minimum days from transplanting to first harvest, pericarp thickness, lycopene content, dry matter, TSS and titrable acidity. Therefore, the hybrid crosses which expressed higher yield potential in addition with acceptable qualitative performance together with maximum harvesting span could be utilized for commercial exploitation.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study was aimed at determining the effects of corn and wheat glutens on the histopathological and immunohistochemical structure of the ovarian tissue, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, and lipid profile in rats. Twenty-day-old 24 female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to three groups, and were raised until 185 days of age. Three study groups, named as Wheat, Corn and Soybean Groups, were established and fed on wheat gluten, corn gluten and soybean meal, respectively, as a protein source. At the end of the trial, ovarian tissue specimens and serum samples were taken from the animals, and analyzed. Compared to Soybean Group, in Wheat Group, of the ovarian histopathological parameters investigated, values pertaining to the primordial, primary, secondary, and Graafian follicles and corpora lutea (CL) were numerically smaller, and for the immunohistochemical parameters investigated, in the transglutaminase 2 (TGM2), gliadin, IgA, IgM, CD4 and CD8 were immunopositivity higher (P>0.05). It was determined that, in Wheat Group, ovarian tissue LH levels had significantly decreased, whilst serum FSH levels had significantly increased (P<0.05). Wheat Group also displayed reduced ovarian tissue cholesterol levels and increased serum monoacylglycerol levels (P<0.05). In result, it was ascertained that wheat and corn glutens had limited effects on the histopathological and immunohistochemical structure of the ovarian tissue, but showed distinct effects on ovarian tissue LH and serum FSH levels.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The use of Wharton's Jelly (WJ) as a biomaterial is currently undergoing an appearance in the regenerative medicine field. The biomaterials applications focus on the aspects of cellular growth or delivery of proteins capable of stimulating cellular response. However, the basic knowledge about Wharton jelly and decellularization processing technology combined with understanding the physical-chemical properties of this biomaterial is necessary for proper application in regenerative medicine. This mini-review article summarizes information on the composition of WJ, application of drug delivery, in medicine and discusses recent developments with a special focus on its use for regenerative medicine. The most successful and stimulating applications are studies in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, for wound healing to treat burns, tumor treatment, nanoparticle carriers, and drug delivery systems.

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Abstract This paper proposes to analyze how the intervention measures such as lockdown, partial lockdown and no-lockdown help to impede the spread of the severe outbreak of COVID-19 in Brazil. A p-fuzzy model, considering as input variables, the infected population and the intervention measures and as output variable the level of infestation, is proposed. The numerical results show that intervention measures play a crucial role in determining the success of COVID-19 eradication programs, while the population is being vaccinated in stages. Therefore, the model proposed assists government decision making in order to minimize the spread of the pandemic.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Infection disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) have been increasingly reported and often manifest with the same symptoms of tuberculosis (TB). The identification of the causative agent is fundamental for the determination of an appropriate therapy, since each species of mycobacteria requires a specific treatment. Thus, rapid and accurate tests to identify mycobacteria of medical interest, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), are necessary in the clinical routine. The present study evaluated an in-house multiplex PCR to detect, in reference and clinical strains, the genus Mycobacterium and also M. tuberculosis and MAC. To identify the Mycobacterium genus, M. tuberculosis and MAC, it was amplified a fragment of hsp65 gene, esat-6 gene, and the internal transcribed spacer between the 16S and 23S rRNA genes, respectively. In total, 87 mycobacteria strains were used, being 10 reference and 77 clinical strains, previously identified as MTBC (n = 66), M. avium (n = 8) or other NTM specie (n = 13). The hsp65 gene fragment was amplified for all mycobacteria strains evaluated (87/87). This multiplex PCR presented sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 95.2% for M. tuberculosis detection, and sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 100% for MAC detection. The multiplex PCR evaluated is an important tool for the differentiation between M. tuberculosis and NTM, as well as for the identification of MAC, a complex composed by species with high prevalence in the world.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Vitamin C (VC) is involved in many biological processes including immune response. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of supplemental VC on the development of mink lymphocytes in wild type (Standard genotype mink) and animal model of Chediak-Higashy (CH) syndrome (Sapphire genotype mink). Chediak-Higashy syndrome is genetically determined disease of human and animals affecting morphology and functions different cells including leukocytes. Using morphometry and cytochemistry methods, we reveal that VC supplementation (100 mg/animal/day) induces lymphocyte activation in wild type mink and CH-like mink. However, the effect of VC supplementation is sex-related and depends on the genotype of mink. In general, we obtained data that VC supplementation neutralizes genotype-related size differences among lymphocytes.

Resumo em Inglês:

HIGHLIGHTS The potential protective effect of Neo in the STZ-induced damage in INS-1E cells was evaluated. The protective role of Neo on cell viability and reactive oxygen species formation were evaluated. Neo prevented ROS formation and elevated insulin levels in high glucose conditions. Pretreatment of Neo might be a candidate agent to prevent ROS in STZ-induced diabetes.

Resumo em Inglês:

HIGHLIGHTS A levan-based formulation composed of Aloe vera and avocado oil was development. Biocosmetic showed antioxidant activity, retention capacity and good spreadability. Levan-based formulation was efficiently modeled within the simplex design space. Cosmetic formulations showed great stability and pH compatible with skin.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Adenosine is an important regulator within the cardiovascular system and modulates various processes through four distinct G protein-coupled receptors (A1, A2A, A2B, and A3), causing hypotension and reduced renal blood flow, which contributes to ischemia tissue and organ dysfunction. Caffeine causes most of its biological effects by blocking adenosine receptors. Although caffeine is vastly used as a pharmacological tool in basic research, there is a lack of studies characterizing the caffeine doses necessary for blocking the cardiovascular effects of adenosine. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of different doses of caffeine (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg, s.c) on the cardiovascular changes induced by adenosine. In addition, the adenosine response was evaluated at different times (4 and 8 hours) after caffeine administration. The bolus injection of increasing doses of adenosine dose-dependently reduced blood pressure, renal blood flow and heart rate. The dose of 30 mg/kg was the most effective in blocking adenosine-induced cardiovascular events. However, the higher dose of caffeine (100 mg/kg) fails to block the adenosine effect on heart rate. The effect of caffeine lasts for 4 hours. Therefore, caffeine in the dose of 30 mg/kg can block the effects of adenosine for up to 4 hours. These data provide valuable information on the dose and frequency of caffeine administration for future studies in rats.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) -induced Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by hypoxia and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could be prevented with antioxidant agents. The essential oil of Lippia alba (EOLA) chemotype citral-limonene is rich in components with antioxidant activity. So, this study aims to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of the EOLA on in vivo and in vitro models of renal I/R. Male Wistar rats were submitted to right nephrectomy, followed by ischemia by clamping the renal artery in the left kidney and a reperfusion. Animals received EOLA (200 mg/kg) or vehicle three days prior to I/R surgery. Blood and urine samples were obtained to evaluate creatinine, urea, uric acid, and creatinine clearance. The left kidney was collected for histological evaluations and analysis of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH). HK-2 cells were used to evaluate the effect of EOLA on I/R in vitro, using the MTT assay. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to evaluate cell morphological alterations. The I/R resulted in biochemical parameter alterations, with EOLA reverting all these alterations. Histological evaluation showed that EOLA protected the morphological changes caused by I/R. Also, EOLA was able to reduce TBARS and increase GSH levels in renal tissue. In the tubular cells, the EOLA partially reversed the damage caused by I/R, which was observed through the SEM. The EOLA showed effect against I/R-induced AKI through pre-treatment, protecting biochemical and oxidative parameters in vivo and reversing tubular cell damage in vitro.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract One of the main problems to be solved in the commercial production of Nile tilapia is the use of large volumes of steroids during the sex reversion process. The precise evaluation of the time after hatching to start the steroid treatment could help reduce its use in the short-term. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the sex proportion and the growth obtained in a mixed population of Nile tilapia fed fluoxymesterone at different days (3, 6, 9, 12, and 15) after hatching. A one-factor experiment was designed, with the day, after hatching, that the fluoxymesterone (5 mg) began to be supplied as factor (3, 6, 9, 12 and 15). Initial stocking density was 0.4 larvae L-1. All groups were evaluated by triplicate. Steroid treatment finished at day 25 after larvae stocking. Squash technique was used to determine sex proportion at the end of the experiment (45 days). Growth evaluation was performed based on wet weight and total length obtained from each biometry. The results showed the highest percentage of males (92%) in the fish fed fluoxymesterone from day three after hatching. No anabolic effect on growth was observed in any steroid-treated fish. A negative effect on growth was observed after withdrawal of the steroid in the fish that were fed fluoxymesterone for the longest time. These results show that it is necessary to supply the fluoxymesterone prior to the onset of sex differentiation (5-6 days after hatching) to achieve a permanent reversion of the sex differentiation process.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is an infectious virus with a long incubation period, which was first detected in Wuhan, China, spread all over the world, seriously threatening human life. Therefore, accurate and rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 is very important for controlling the epidemic and preventing its further spread. Currently, nucleic acid detection makes an important contribution to the prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2. In this study, a new and highly sensitive nucleic acid detection method for SARS-CoV-2 has been proposed. The nucleic acid sequences were digitized by Entropy-based mapping technique. Then, the digitized these sequences were divided into 100-unit sections using the sliding window method and given as input to Capsule Networks.10988 segments (5494 SARS-CoV-2, 5494 normal) are classified with capsule nets. With the proposed method, an accuracy performance of 100% was achieved by using capsule networks to identify SARS-CoV-2 from nucleic acid sequences. The results show that the proposed method successfully identifies SARS-CoV-2 from nucleic acid sequences.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Pathophysiological characteristics of obesity includes chronic inflammation. Complications in the respiratory tract are related to bodily problems, which lead to a restriction of lung function due to reduced volume, inducing an increase in respiratory work. SARS-CoV-2 has a high potential for contamination by respiratory secretions and, therefore, obesity is one of the main risk factors for complications. The relations between obesity and SARS-CoV-2 are complex, since the immunological agents that are activated by these processes are ubiquitous. It is well-known that network analysis can generate results about the dynamics of complex biological phenomena, such as signalling networks, neural networks, immunological networks, and so on. Here we propose and analysis and interpretation of the complex relationships between obesity and COVID-19 in a meta-analysis study using complex network modelling and the theoretical knockouts technique. In a complex network of this kind, vertices are considered as immunological agents and their relation as directed edges. We built two networks: one related to COVID-19 and obesity (synergy) and another only with COVID-19. In both networks, we have performed the knockout of all 52 vertices. These knockouts indicated that, besides the Infected Host Cell and COVID viral particle, IL-17; CD40, AR and AL channels; and Th17, were the most relevant agents in this complex network. Overall, our study indicated the superior role and importance of IL-17 in this context. Such result corroborates with the role of IL-17 in identification and prognosis of Acute Respiratory Discomfort Syndrome (ARDS).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Selonsertib (GS-4997), a serine/threonine kinase inhibitor, targets apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) and is now in a phase III clinical trial for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Inflammation is a defense against an effect that can damage the tissue or organ itself. Cytokines are the agents that play a key role in acute inflammation and one of the most important cytokine proteins, IL-1β. In this study, we investigated whether selonsertib and diclofenac sodium (positive control) could inhibit IL-1β caused by two different LPS (Salmonella enterica serotype enteritidis and Escherichia coli O111:B4) stimulated on THP-1 cell line. As a result of the WST-1 assay, the inhibitory concentration of diclofenac sodium at doses of IC50 of 32.5 μM/mL and selonsertib was calculated to be 120 μM/mL. The immunological responses of diclofenac sodium and selonsertib (IL-1β) in different LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells were assessed cytometrically: diclofenac sodium and Selonsertib were found to be effective in stimulation from E. coli. The results showed that selonsertib had a significantly anti-inflammatory effect like diclofenac sodium.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Widespread use of green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in pharmaceutical and cosmetics demand for its toxicological assessment. The current study describes the influence of exposure to kumquat, Fortunella margarita (FM) synthesized AgNPs in albino rats. Animals (n=60) were randomly distributed into four groups. Group, I served as control while groups II-IV were exposed to FM-AgNPs by the single intraperitoneal dose of 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Animals were sacrificed at two-week intervals up to 5 weeks. Hematology, tissue (liver and spleen) oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, CAT, and MDA), and histopathological examination were performed. Significant elevation in hemoglobin (Hb), Erythrocyte count (RBC), hematocrits (HCT), and hematological indices and depletion in total leukocytes count (TLC) was recorded at different time points. Similarly, a significant increase in SOD, CAT, and MDA activity was observed in both liver and spleen. But changes (p ≤ 0.005) in the spleen was recorded more consistently. Exposures to the high dose of FM-AgNPs lead to significant alterations in microanatomy of the liver and spleen. In liver vacuolization, enucleation, necrosis, congestion, and reduction in the size of cell, nucleus, portal vein, and elevation in cell density per unit area were recorded. In the spleen, except for enlargement in splenic sinuses, no other alterations could be recorded. It is concluded that FM-AgNPs leaves time and dose-dependent toxicity in rats but variations are more evident at high doses.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is a natural phenolic compound found in leaves of olive trees. It is a photosensitive solid phytochemical constituent and an irritant substance to skin and mucosa as pure drug. HT is a lipophilic chemical constituent and shows low solubility in water, bitter taste, and instability to oxidizing atmosphere. Considering the limitations for its suitable therapeutic use, the aim of the present study was to obtain, to characterize, to quantify, and to evaluate the stability of HT-loaded poly(ԑ-caprolactone) nanocapsules for its further use in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. Nanocapsules were prepared by method of interfacial deposition of the preformed polymer. The formulations were characterized by morphological and spectroscopic methods. The UHPLC-PDA analytical method was developed and validated for quantifying the HT encapsulation. Physicochemical stability assay was performed for 120 days. Nanocapsules were successfully obtained by the proposed method. The morphological evaluation demonstrated the drug absence in the nanocapsule surface. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrated the drug nanoencapsulation. The analytical method was validated and confirmed a high HT encapsulation efficiency over 95%. Considering the physicochemical stability testing, the polydispersity index changed after 30 days for NC-2 (HT at 2 mg/mL) and after 90 days for NC-5 (HT at 5 mg/mL). Zeta potential changed after 60 days for both formulations (NC-2 and NC-5). pH values were modified after 60 days for NC-5 and after 90 days for NC-2. HT-loaded PCL nanocapsules demonstrate adequate physicochemical features and high drug encapsulation. The different formulations revealed stability changes from 30 to 90 days. Additional in vitro and in vivo evaluations may be performed in order to use these nanoformulations for treating several diseases based on oxidative-inflammatory environments.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was the responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Because of its high transmissibility, allied to the emergence of some variants of concern (VOC), like Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron, the detection of these strains must be rapid and efficient. Among the tests available, the reverse-transcriptase polymerase-chain reaction (RT-PCR) is considered the gold standard test for COVID-19 detection, and the use of specific primers and probes can discriminate the different COVID-19 variants. In this study, we screened 317 individuals tested positive for COVID-19 from the municipality of Ponta Grossa (Paraná State, Brazil), from April/2021 to February/2022, aiming to identify the Gamma, Delta, and Omicron variants, by RT-PCR, using specific probes. The Gamma variant was detected from April/2021 to September/2021. The Delta variant was subsequently detected from August/2021 to November/2021. The Omicron variant was the unique strain detected from December/2021 to February/2022 and, because of its high rate of transmissibility, it caused a considerable increase in the number of COVID-19 infections. Mass testing is considered an important strategy for COVID-19 control and, the correct detection of new strains, could improve the knowledge about the virus´ behavior, permitting the development of drugs and optimized vaccines.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The objective of the present work was to quantify the effect of phenolic derivatives on in the oral mucosa of university laboratory technicians. Twenty (20) university laboratory technicians exposed to agents and 11 non-smokers without occupational exposure to phenolic derivatives for more than 10 years underwent anamnesis and extra and intra-oral clinical examination. Exfoliative cytology of the right buccal mucosa was performed. The frequency of micronuclei formation (MN) was analyzed in 1200 cells by standard microscopy. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis test were used. The difference between the groups evaluated was observed in the frequency of more than 01 MN/cell (p=0.0397), being more present in the exposed group. The use of personal protective equipment contributed to a decrease in the frequency of 01 MN/cell (p=0.0272) for the exposed group. Genotoxic effects may be reduced by the use of PPE and/or exhaust laminar flow hood. Five years of exposure could adapt the nucleus cells to the genotoxic aggressor demonstrating that the oral mucosa could be a marker to long-term genotoxic exposure.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Continuous heavy rains along with poor road construction and sewage system had resulted in the frequent occurrence of floods in many areas of the Philippines. As a consequence, leptospirosis remains an infectious disease endemic in the Philippines with numerous cases reported as aftermaths of typhoons especially after heavy flooding. Leptospirosis is known for its invasiveness in penetrating mucous membranes and abraded skin, in inducing macrophage response activity, and in activating T-cell proliferation. Chronic exposure to tobacco smoking weakens the immune system by reducing macrophage phagocytic activity and conferring T-cell insensitivity. In this study, a system of ordinary differential equations was developed to describe the synergy of leptospirosis and smoking in the impairment of immune system. The rate capacities of macrophages and T-cells in response to both smoking and leptospirosis were calculated. In the disease-free model, population of macrophages remains larger when compared with T-cells, and this predominance persists in the synergistic immune response to both smoking and leptospirosis. Leptospira infection in human immune cells is dose-dependent, and is more rapid in smoking-impaired than the normal cells. Findings of the study on these parameter estimates characterize the functions of macrophage and T-cell populations, although further molecular studies are warranted, which are necessary to address the inadequacy of antibiotic therapy in advanced and severe leptospirosis cases.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The proprioceptive system is actually a sensory system based on an individual’s knowledge of the body. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of estrogen and progesterone hormones on understanding and to recognize the proprioceptive sense the knee joint in healthy women during the menstrual cycle. Fifteen healthy women with regular menstrual cycles participated in this study. The estrogen and progesterone levels were evaluated during a cycle in the follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases. The effect on the sense of perception and cognition of the proprioceptive knee joint in two directions (extension and flexion), by target angle reconstruction at 30° was studied. The results showed that female sex hormones affect the knee active Joint Position Sense (JPS). In the extensions, the changes of the menstrual cycle affect the JPS in constant error during the ovulation phase. In the flexion, changes in the menstrual cycle affect the JPS in constant, absolute, and variable error during the luteal phase. The findings of this study show that the menstruation phases can change the active JPS at knee joint. Since the outbreak of joint problems, especially in the knee joint, is higher in women than in men, it was predicted that hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle affect the proprioceptive cognition of the knee joint, which in turn increases the percentage of knee injuries in women.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study evaluated the clinical and bacteriological efficacy of cefovecin sodium in shelter dogs with bacterial lower respiratory disease. All dogs (n = 32) with lower respiratory disease were divided into two treatment groups: the cefovecin (n = 16) and the ceftriaxone (n = 16) groups. On the first five days and the 8th day of treatment, and after treatment (15th day), the examination of all dogs was performed. Blood analysis and thoracic radiographic imaging were done. In bronchoalveolar lavage fluids, in the cefovecin group, Bordetella bronchiseptica (n=13), Staphylococcus spp. (n=9), Streptococcus spp. (n=7), Klebsiella pneumonia (n=1); in the ceftriaxone group; B. bronchiseptica (n=5), Escherichia coli (n=5), Pasteurella canis (n=4), Streptococcus spp. (n=3), Staphylococcus aureus (n=1), Pasteurella aerogenes (n=1) and Klebsiella oxytoca (n=1) were isolated and identified. Cefovecin and ceftriaxone sodium treatment protocols had anti-bacterial efficacies of 68.75% and 100%, respectively. In light of the study results, it is concluded that although cefovecin sodium looks to be an antibacterial drug that may be used to treat bacterial lower respiratory tract infections in shelter dogs due to its ease of use, cefovecin and other cephalosporins should not be used empirically as they may contribute to bacterial resistance.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Microbiota is considered an organ that affects the health of the human body and includes many microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, mold, viruses, protozoa, and archaea. Microorganism such as Candida sp., a part of the microbiota, is known to cause diseases in the case of opportunistic pathogens under various conditions. Yeast loads and species in the oral mycobiota of young individuals aged 18-25 were determined in our study. Two methods, centrifugation and dilution, were used to determine the oral yeast load. Samples were taken from 31 individuals for the centrifugation method, including 29 for the dilution method and five of these individuals. The samples were inoculated on Sabouraud 2% Dextrose Agar (SDA) and SDA containing chloramphenicol (SCAF). As a result, in young individuals aged 18-25, the oral yeast load was 0.01±0.01 and 1.87±0.01 log CFU in SCAF, and it was 0.01±0.01 and >3.00±0.01 log CFU in SDA. A total of 400 isolates were taken from the counting plates, and 140 were determined to be yeast by gram staining. Germ tube test of the isolates determined to be yeasts determined that 108 were probably Candida albicans or Candida dubliniensis. 140 isolates were also identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Isolates were identified as C. albicans (38.58%), C. albicans or C. africana (3.57%), C. dubliniensis (32.86%), C. parapsilosis (20%), C. inconspicua (2.14%), Pichia manshurica (2.14%), and Wickerhamomyces subpelliculosus (0.71%). It has been determined that young individuals between the ages of 18-25 carry Candida species in their oral mycobiota.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This article aims to report the preparation and optimized formulation of Ctn[15-34], a designed anti-infective peptide, with poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid), PLGA, nanoparticles. Ctn[15-34] is a short peptide derived from crotalicidin, a cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide from the venom of the South American rattlesnake (Crotalus durissus terrificus), that has arisen as a promising antifungal and microbicide agent. The PLGA nanoparticles were prepared and loaded with carboxyfluorescein (CF)-Ctn[15-34] using the double emulsion/solvent evaporation method. After a preformulation study, which tested different formulation parameters, Poly (vinyl alcohol) 87-89% hydrolyzed and sonication with Sonifier® were choosen to prepare unloaded PLGA nanoparticles by that method, resulting in smaller particle size and Polydispersity Index (PDI) values and higher zeta potential values of nanoparticles. This better condition was used to prepare CF-Ctn[15-34]-loaded PLGA nanoparticles, resulting in homogeneous and spherical nanoparticles, with an average size of 213.2 ± 2.00 nm, PDI of 0.044 ± 0.04 and zeta potential of -16.03 ± 1.20 mV. An excellent encapsulation efficiency was obtained, corresponding to 93.3 ± 0.10 %. The drug-release profile showed a rapid initial release of the peptide, approximately 27 % in the first 24 hours, followed by a sustained release for at least 16 days. Another relevant aspect in the peptide formulation is that the CF-Ctn[15-34]-loaded nanoparticles potentiated the antifungal effect against the opportunistic pathogenic yeast Cryptococcus neoformans compared with the free, in solution Ctn[15-34], in equivalent volume dosage. A preparation method of CF-Ctn[15-34]-loaded PLGA nanoparticles was established and validated, representing a successful approach to deliver CF-Ctn[15-34] for pharmaceutical applications.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study aimed to examine the effects of exercise, intermittent fasting, and combining two methods on body weight, adipose tissue, lipids, and glucoregulator and antioxidant parameters. 90 day-old male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of 6 rats each. The groups consist of rats with normal body weight-sedentary (C), obese-sedentary (O), obese-intermittent fasting only (IF), obese-exercise (swimming) only (E), and obese-intermittent fasting together with exercise (IFE). For 8 weeks (1. phase), 1 group was fed with standard pellets (2.7 cal/g). The other 4 groups were fed with a high-fat diet (4.496 cal/g) to develop obesity. Then for 8 weeks (2. phase), all rats feeding standard pellets were exercised and/or done intermittent fasting. There was no significant difference in body weight at the beginning of the study. The change in body weight was significantly higher in C than IFE, and E. Fasting blood glucose was higher in IF and IFE. Oxidative stress index (OSI) was lower in IF and IFE. Also, paraoxonase 1 (PON1) decreased in IFE. The fat cells' diameters of IF or E were lower than O but higher than C. The fat cell diameters of IFE were smaller than C. In conclusion, a combination of intermittent fasting and exercise in obese individuals caused reduced body weight, fat cell size, and oxidative stress. Besides, it caused increased fasting blood glucose, different effects on blood lipids, and decreased PON1. Thus intermittent fasting can be suggested by considering its positive and negative aspects and keeping it under follow-up.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Neonatal thoracoscopic correction of type III esophageal atresia requires the establishment of an artificial carbon dioxide pneumothorax in the affected thoracic cavity. At present, there is no suitable double-lumen endotracheal tube or bronchial occluder to be used in neonatal thoracoscopic surgery. Objectives: To research the influence of sevoflurane pretreatment on neonatal inflammatory response and pulmonary ventilation. Sixty neonates were randomized into 2 groups, group C, group S. Neonates in group S received sevoflurane inhalation at a concentration of 2% after endotracheal intubation until the establishment of pneumothorax, followed by a 10-min washout period, while those in group C only inhaled pure oxygen. Venous blood samples were collected from the subjects in the 2 groups from at 10 min before induction of anesthesia to 24 h after pneumothorax relief to determine the concentrations of serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor α. Arterial blood gases were drawn from the radial artery at the above time points. The alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference, and respiratory index were calculated. Concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor α in serum were all lower in group S. Alveolar-arterial oxygen and respiratory index were also lower in group S. Duration of surgical intensive care unit stay, time of mechanical ventilation, and length of stay were all lower in group S. A concentration of 2% sevoflurane pretreatment may have a protective influence on the neonatal inflammatory response and pulmonary ventilation, which correct type III esophageal atresia by suppressing the inflammatory response under the thoracoscope.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The high incidence of melanoma has received significant attention. Despite advances in early detection and standard treatment options, new strategies that improve therapy with reduced side effects are highly desirable. Several studies have demonstrated the efficiency of doxorubicin (Dox) to treat melanoma, however, side effects limit its clinical use. Drug delivery systems, especially nanostructured ones, are a useful approach to enhance antitumor activity and reduce toxicity of drugs. Here, the use of calcium phosphate nanoparticles functionalized with Dox and hyaluronic acid (N-Dox) to enhance Dox antiproliferative activity is reported. The effects were accessed in A-375 melanoma cells, in which N-Dox IC50 significantly decreased over 48 hours (0.14 ± 0.07 (M) compared to free drug (0.44 ± 0.25 (M) and showed selective action against A-375 when compared with HEK-293 cells. Treatment triggered DNA damage, increased nuclear area, and elicited senescent phenotype. Furthermore, it did not form colonies after 14 days of incubation preceded by short exposure treatment. These preliminary results indicate that N-Dox hold promise for melanoma treatment, reducing the minimum effective dose and perhaps a reduction in the cost of treatment.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Vigorous training increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from skeletal muscle, which can contribute to impairing athletic performance and health. Mitochondrial antioxidant such as MitoQ may contribute to protecting against training-induced oxidative stress such as mitochondrial ROS, but the effects on athletic performance are unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of MitoQ to exercise training (EX) on VO2max, miRNA expression involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. In this double-blind clinical trial, 32 professional cyclists (25.6±3.8yr) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=8); 1) Placebo, 2) EX (cycle ergometer, 75% of VO2max, 90 minutes, 3 sessions/week, and 4 weeks), 3) MitoQ (20 mg.day-1 for 4 weeks), and 4) EX+MitoQ (combined EX with MitoQ for 4 weeks). V˙O2max and gene expression of MicroRNAs (miRNAs)-19b, -181b, -155, and -146a and Serum levels of ROS (peroxides, superoxide, hydroxyl radical, singlet oxygen, and alpha oxygen), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured by the gas analyzer, real-time polymerase chain reaction (2-ΔΔCt) and ELISA, respectively. Both EX+MitoQ and MitoQ reduced serum levels of ROS (P < 0.05), but there was no change in EX group. Serum GPx levels were increased in EX, MitoQ, and EX+MitoQ (P < 0.05), but there was no difference between groups. Serum SOD remained unchanged in all groups. miRNA-155 and miRNA-19b expressions were decreased in EX+MitoQ compared to EX, whereas miRNA-146a was increased in EX+MitoQ compared to EX (P < 0.05). Placebo-controlled intervention (tapioca powder) had no effects on all outcomes (P < 0.05). MitoQ supplementation and EX reduced ROS levels and altered expression of key miRNAs mediating ROS generation and vascular endothelial inflammation could contribute to improving vascular function.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The evolution of digital health care system in medical imaging has become a contemporary area. Human eye contain numerous nerves and sensitive tissues in it which are highly prone to eye diseases like hemorrhage, exudates, micro aneurysms etc. These eye diseases may affect blood vessels of retina to a greater extent. There are different research contributions made in this research work. They are (i) Identification of OD/OS (Right eye / Left eye) using DWT. (ii) A clip limit estimation technique which identifies the suitable clip limit value for enhancement. (iii) A framework for blood vessel extraction using estimated clip limit value and thresholding technique. Using DWT the localization of optic disc is done. The clip limit estimation technique involves various analysis to estimate the suitable clip limit for enhancement namely qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, intensity distribution analysis and statistical analysis. A framework is proposed for retina blood vessel segmentation using clip limit estimation technique. The performance of the proposed methods are measured in terms of classification accuracy, sensitivity, specificity. The framework is tested on different datasets which produced an accuracy of 96.87% on DRIVE dataset, 96.89% on HRF dataset, 97.34% on STARE dataset, and 97.52% on DIARETDB1 dataset respectively.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Pesticides are toxic chemicals used to control pests, plant diseases, or undesirable vegetation. Trifluralin (TRF), causing toxicity and mutagenicity, is a dinitroaniline class herbicide used to control undesirable vegetation in agriculture. Aloe vera is a widely used plant having rich gel content and a wide area of utilization. The present study aims to investigate the protective effect of Aloe vera on Drosophila melanogaster toxicity caused by TRF. For this purpose, life span, larval toxicity, and genotoxicity tests were performed on D. melanogaster administered with concentration of TRF (0.1 mM) and Aloe vera (2.5%, 5% and 10%). The results showed that life span was improved in the female and male populations when TRF and Aloe vera was administered (2.5%, 5% and 10%). Furthermore, the larval toxicity experiment showed that TRF decreased the survival rate of larvae; however, TRF and Aloe vera (10%) increased it at the highest concentration. According to the Comet Assay, TRF was found to cause an increase in the DNA damage; on the other hand, when D. melanogaster was administered with TRF and Aloe vera, the DNA damage decreased gradually in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, Aloe vera could be a good candidate to reduce the harmful effects of TRF, one of the most used herbicides.

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Abstract The Paranaguá Estuarine Complex (PEC) is one of Brazil's largest southwest Atlantic estuarine systems, possessing a rich microalgae diversity that remains to be fully explored. Therefore, due to the increasing interest in the microalgae biotechnological potential, this study isolated and identified diatoms found in the PEC. The diatoms were purified and analyzed with light and scanning electron microscopy for morphological identification, while DNA sequences were used for molecular identification. Although a diatoms rich diversity was obtained, only a few were viable after the cultivation period. The two best-selected strains were identified as belonging to two genera, Nitzschia and Navicula. The rbcL region was found to be the most informative for species identification. Morphological and molecular analyses allowed for the identification of species Nitzschia inconspicua and Navicula pseudoantonii, which was understood as the first report of N. pseudoantonii in the American continent.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Cancer is considered the leading cause of death worldwide, and the number of new cases is expected to rise over the next few years. In this context, plant materials are increasingly studied in the search for substances to prevent and/or treat this disease. In this work, the cytotoxic activity of extracts from plants and friable calluses of five Brazilian peanut cultivars (IAC 886, IAC Caiapó, IAC Tatu ST, IAC 8112 and BR-1) against a leukemic cell line (K562) was compared. Inhibition of K562 cells viability (79.8%) was significantly higher in response to extracts from calluses of cultivar IAC 886 as compared to extracts of aerial parts of in vivo and in vitro plants from the same cultivar. Callus extracts displayed low toxicity on non-tumor cells (NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells). Trans-resveratrol was found in extracts from aerial parts of cultivar IAC Tatu ST and from calluses of cultivar IAC 886. In addition, three compounds with UV spectrum compatible with phenolic compounds were detected in the samples. Calluses from cultivar IAC 886 displayed higher relative contents of these compounds, which can be contributing to their cytotoxic activity.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Chemical and pharmacological potentials of botanical species found in the Cerrado are well-known and widely studied. Chemical diversity of secondary metabolites produced by plants that belong to this Brazilian biome has triggered several studies in the fields of farming, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) from fresh leaves of three species found in the Brazilian Cerrado: Cardiopetalum calophyllum Schltdl. (EO-CC), Campomanesia adamantium (Cambess.) O. Berg (EO-CA) and Protium ovatum Engl. (EO-PO) and at determining their anti-Malassezia furfur and anti-inflammatory activities. Both GC-FID and GC-MS showed that the most abundant chemical class of the oils was the one of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. The major constituents identified in EO-CC were germacrene D (34.9%) and bicyclogermacrene (26.8%). EO-CA exhibited mainly germacrene D (21.7%) while EO-PO had high concentrations of germacrene D (25.0%) and γ-muurolene (18.6%). EOs were tested by the broth microdilution method on 96-well microplates and exhibited satisfactory activity against M. furfur, i. e., EO-CA had MIC = 375 µg/mL while EO-CC and EO-PO had MIC = 750 µg/mL. The chemotaxis model, which was used for evaluating their anti-inflammatory activity, showed that EOs exhibited effective results: C. calophyllum (EO-CC; IC50 = 24.4 µg/mL), C. adamantium (EO-CA; IC50 = 15.7 µg/mL) and P. ovatum (EO-PO; IC50 = 32.5 µg/mL). In short, biological activities of EO-CC, EO-CA and EO-PO, such as anti-Malassezia furfur and anti-inflammatory ones, were investigated and described for the first time.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The Brazilian berry, also known as jaboticaba, has a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, besides demonstrating positive effects on hormonal regulation and weight loss. Nowadays, both aging and overweight are considered public health issues, promoting metabolic and hormonal changes that have a substantial role in prostate injury. We demonstrated herein that a low dose of jaboticaba peel extract (PJE) is enough to limit the onset of damages and hormone receptor alterations on the anterior prostate in the senile or high-fat diet (HFD) groups. The senile mice (11-months old) received the PJE and/or a HFD for 60 days. The anterior prostates were collected for histopathological, immunohistochemistry and western-blotting analysis. The PJE treatment reduced the epithelium atrophy and inflammatory infiltrate frequencies besides decreasing the androgen receptor (AR); estrogen receptor alpha (ERα); and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGFR-1) immunoexpression; in the anterior prostate of both senile and HFD-senile mice. However, low prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) frequency, reduced immunoexpression of stromal AR and epithelium IGFR-1 were only observed in the anterior prostate of the PJE and HFD-treated groups. HFD intake intensified the aging-induced histopathological and hormonal alterations by further increasing the AR, ERα and IGFR-1 immunoexpression, as well as the PIN lesion incidence in the anterior prostate. Thus, the PJE was able to interfere in the hormonal signaling mediators, protecting the anterior prostate microenvironment and preventing lesion development due to aging associated or not with HFD intake.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Metabolic flexibility is the capacity of a system to adjust fuel (primarily glucose and fatty acids) oxidation based on nutrient availability. Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase 4 (PDK4) is one of the main enzymes that plays a critical role in metabolic flexibility. In the current study, we examined the expression of genes involved in metabolism in the liver of male rats. Thirty-two male Wistar rats (8 week old) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 8); 1. Control, 2. Training (do HIIT training for 4 weeks), 3. LCAR (received 200 mg / kg of L-carnitine, daily), 4. Training + L-carnitine (LCAR-HIIT). The gene expression was measured by Real-time PCR and quantified by 2-∆∆Ct method. Sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) expression was significantly higher in the LCAR (p = 0.018) and HIIT (p = 0.001) group than in the LCAR- HIIT group. Stearoyl-Coenzyme A desaturase-1 (SCD1) expression in HIIT (p = 0.007, p < 0.001) and LCAR-HIIT (p < 0.001, p = 0.003) groups was significantly increased and decreased compared to the control group and LCAR group, respectively. PDK4 expression was significantly reduced by combination of LCAR-HIIT compared to the control group. In sum, the administration of carnitine and HIIT is very useful and can conduct this by reducing the expression of lipogenic genes such as SREBP-1c and SCD1 as well as increasing the expression of Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Schultz-Bip (feverfew) is among the important medicinal and aromatic plants due to its tryptophan (TRP), serotonin (SER), melatonin (MEL), and parthenolide (PRT) content. In recent studies, have reported TRP, MEL, and (PRT) are effective in the treatment of COVID-19, thus increasing the popularity of feverfew, which is rich in these valuable molecules. This study investigated the possible effects of exogenous foliar applications of methyl jasmonate (MeJA 0.5 mM) and TRP (20 mM) on plant TRP, SER, MEL, and PRT levels. During the pre-flowering period, endogenous TRP was measured as 128.9 µg/mL and endogenous PRT as 1.53% mg/g in the leaves of the control group. During the flowering period, the MEL level was measured as 1.38 µg/mL in the leaves of the TRP application group. In addition, in the pre-flowering period, MeJA-induced increases of 94.51% were determined in DPPH antioxidant activity and the total flavonoid content was 38.76 mg QE/g, whereas the highest total phenolic content of 51.63 mg GAE/g was found in flower samples of the control group. However, neither the developmental periods nor the treatments significantly affected the total phenolic content in the leaves.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract A Penicillium sp. strain was isolated from corroded parts in the Coaracy Nunes hydroelectric power plant in Amapá State, Brazil. Morphological and molecular techniques identified this strain as Penicillium citreosulfuratum Biourge, whose 5.8S-ITS rDNA sequence grouped well in a phylogenetic tree with other Exilicaulis section species of the Penicillium genus. The obtained strain of P. citreosulfuratum ability to form biofilm on the surface of aluminum wires was confirmed by optical and scanning electron microscopy. In plates containing PDA or T&K media, the P. citreosulfuratum strain growth was inhibited around a paper disk containing a highly concentrated solution of copper, iron, or nickel. However, there was no inhibition halo around the paper disk containing aluminum and there was a faint halo around the paper disk containing zinc. This fungus was able to grow in a modified T&K liquid medium containing 50 mM of Al3+ and less efficiently in the same medium but containing 50 mM Zn2+. The essential oils of melaleuca, mint, thyme, and oregano at 100% inhibited the fungus growth. Oregano essential oil inhibited the P. citreosulfuratum strain growth in concentrations as low as 10%. In conclusion, the results show that the obtained strain of P. citreosulfurarum can form a biofilm on aluminum wires, it grows in the presence of a high concentrations of aluminum and zinc, and essential oils can control its growth.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs) from fetal tissues have become a valuable source of cell regeneration therapy due to their low immunogenicity, high plasticity and antimicrobial peptides. Most researches about UMSCs mainly focused on humans, mice, rabbits and other mammals, but it is still unknown in broiler. To the best of our knowledge, we first established a broiler-derived UMSCs line from noncontroversial Wharton's jelly of umbilical cord. The detection of biological characteristics showed UMSCs showed the morphological characteristics of fibroblasts and could be cultured to 26 generations in vitro, and maintained diploid chromosomes (2n=78) by G-banding analysis. Cell cycle of UMSCs showed the rate of G0/G1 was about 76.7-80.9%. Moreover, UMSCs could express mesenchymal markers (CD29, CD90, CD71, and CD44), but not hematopoietic marker (CD34) and endothelial marker (CD31). Additionally, UMSCs could be efficiently induced to transdifferentiate into three germ layer cells, such as adipocytes, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, hepatocytes, epithelia, and neurogenic cells. These results demonstrated UMSCs have the essential characteristics of MSCs, and can be used as an attractive candidate for cell regenerative therapy and the study of regulatory mechanisms associated with selective differentiation.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The chemical investigation of Eugenia pyriformis, popularly known as uvaia, led to the isolation of three compounds, the triterpene β-amiryn (1) and the porphyrin derivatives pheophytin a (2) and b (3). Their structures were assigned based on spectroscopic NMR analysis, as well as by comparison with literature data. Most of the compounds found in the essential oil from leaves are terpenes derivatives, such as ο-cymene; 1,8-cineol; linalol, terpinen-4-ol; 2-carene. Flavonoids, steroids and/or terpenoids, lactones, saponins, tannins and fixed acids were detected in both the leaf and stem crude extracts and fractions generated from the Brazilian E. pyriformis plant. According to the results of the DPPH assay, the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaf extract showed higher antioxidant activity than the other samples tested. In the phosphomolybdenum complex assay, the crude ethanol extract of the leaf and stem, and the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaf, showed a higher antioxidant capacity than rutin. It was observed that the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions of the leaf, and the hexane, ethyl acetate and hydroalcoholic fractions of the stem were toxic to Artemia salina brine shrimp with LD50 < 1.0 µg/mL. The hexane fraction of the stem was also allelopathic in inhibiting the radicle growth of Lactuca sativa seeds. These results adding contributions to chemical and biological studies of this medicinal species.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Juçara fruit (Euterpe edulis Martius) is rich in nutrients and antioxidant compounds, a potential ingredient to meet consumer demands for beers with bioactive potential. In this study, different concentrations (10, 20, and 40%) of juçara fruit pulp were added during the brewing steps (mash, fermentation, and maturation). Physicochemical parameters (carbohydrate profile, real extract, pH, alcohol content, glycerol, and color), total phenolic content, and scavenging effect on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrilhidrazil (DPPH) radical were evaluated during the brewing process and in the beers produced. The sugars, real extract, pH, ethanol, and glycerol did not vary significantly between beers produced with different juçara concentrations. Juçara beers had an average alcohol content of 3.6% (w/v) and a pH of 4.43. The color varied between 3.2 and 16 Standard Reference Method depending on the fruit pulp concentration and the step in which it was added. The addition of juçara fruit pulp increased the total phenolic content (49.57-80.17 mg of gallic acid equivalent 100 mL-1) and the antioxidant effect on DPPH (1785-3971 mmol ascorbic acid equivalent 100 mL-1) in the beers, especially when added in the final production stages. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the beer produced with 20% of juçara fruit pulp added at maturation presented the best results and suggested that this fruit has enormous potential for use in the brewing process, promoting an increase in the bioactive compounds.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The essential oil from Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (EOC) was analyzed by GC/MS. The major component of EOC was found to be d-limonene (92.3% of the total essential oil). Anti-ulcer and antioxidant activities of EOC were evaluated in several gastric ulcer models. The ulcer index or area and biochemical markers of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined. EOC significantly inhibited gastric mucosal lesions induced by ulcerogenic agents with an inhibitory rate of nearly 50% at an oral dose of 85 mg/kg, and exerted a healing effect on acetic acid-induced ulcers with a curative rate of 63%. HCl/EtOH administration caused severe oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which was confirmed by significantly decreased SOD activity and increased MDA levels in mice gastric tissues. EOC pretreatment significantly increased SOD activity and decreased MDA levels, indicating that EOC protects the gastric mucosa against development of numerous lesions by inhibiting oxidative stress. These results demonstrate that EOC has anti-ulcerogenic activity and the mechanism underlying its gastric protective effect is associated with its antioxidant properties.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The objective of this study was to develop a viable and low-cost model of voluntary physical exercise that could be applied to studies on metabolism and behavior. 40 male zebrafish (Danio rerio) were studied, divided into two groups: control and voluntary physical exercise. The model consisted of two aquariums connected by a translucent tube and a video camera on the side to measure physical exercise parameters of the animals. The animals showed higher acceleration and maximum speed and had a higher frequency of activity in the light period. In this model of voluntary physical exercise, we observed better performance in locomotor assessment tests, which was not accompanied by increased anxiety or changes in biochemical parameters related to lipid metabolism. Zebrafish responded positively to voluntary physical exercise and this model appears to be a good option for further studies.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Among the Neotropical fish fauna, suckermouth armored catfishes (Hypostomus - Loricariidae) stands out as one of the most difficult groups to diagnose morphologically. So the use of different molecular markers, as is the case of cytogenetics, has been fundamental for a precise identification of some species. In the present study, we characterize the karyotypes of two allopatric Hypostomus spiniger populations, using classical and molecular cytogenetic methods. This species was described by Hensel (1870) but later synonymized with Hypostomus commersoni, and recently it was again recognized as a valid species. Taking to account this taxonomic problematic, the aim of this study is to determine chromosomal characters that may be useful to validate the taxonomic status of H. spiniger and to complement its diagnosis in relation to H. commersoni populations. The karyotype of H. spiniger is composed by 66 chromosomes (10m+16sm+14st+26a), few heterochromatin and a multiple nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) system. Despite, the currently geographic isolation among the samples collected in Forquetinha River (Patos Lagoon basin) and Quadros Lagoon (Tramandaí River basin), both shared the same karyotypic structure, this cytogenetic evidence, suggest that both populations belongs to the same species. Additionally, our results clearly distinguish H. spiniger from H. commersoni populations collected along the Paraná River basin, that exhibited 2n=68 chromosomes and several divergences in heterochromatin and NORs pattern. In sum, the present study reinforces the valid status of H. spiniger and demonstrated the importance of basic cytogenetic analysis to understand conflictuous taxonomic matters.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Peganum harmala seed extract, as well as to determine its fatty acid profile. The highest zone diameter of P. harmala seed extract formed on S. aureus, E. coli, and Y. enterocolitica was determined to be 30 mm, and the MIC value on these bacteria was 31.2 µg mL-1. It has a high level of antimicrobial effect. Among the four different solvent extracts, the highest absorbance value in the CUPRAC method was observed in water extract (0.714), the highest inhibition value in the DPPH method methanol extract (74.06%) and in the ABTS method (72.06%) ethanol extract. A total of 17 fatty acid components were detected in P. harmala seeds, with the highest proportion of linoleic acid with 61.46%. The P. harmala seed can be a good alternative to drugs in the prevention of microbial resistance.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Plants are well known throughout the world for their medical activities. The history of orchids used in many different countries around the world probably started with their use for medicinal purposes thanks to their therapeutic properties. The aim of this study, to investigate antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of ethanol extracts of plant and tuber parts of eight different epiphytic orchids from Turkey as well as their chemical composition. The antimicrobial screening of extracts was performed against 8 bacterial and 2 fungal species. To determine general chemical profile of them gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis was done. Antioxidative potentials of the species were proved based on 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays. All tested extracts prepared from orchid species especially showed intermediate inhibition activity against Proteus vulgaris and Yersina enterocolitica. The Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry results showed that the phytoconstituent contents of the samples were high. In the case of all extracts, more than 100 compounds were identified. But, distinctive differences in composition between each orchid species were not observed. A good correlation degree between the results of the two antioxidant tests was calculated. These well - determined antioxidant activity values can be attributed to the total phenolic content in terms of gallic acid equivalent, determined in a relatively high range (491.41-14082.94 mg GAE/g sample). These data show that different parts of the orchid samples obtained from Turkey with a past history have remarkable antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The use of melatonin (MEL) on plants has recently become widespread. Melatonin (MEL) was used as elicitor in the leaf-derived sage (Salvia officinalis L.) callus culture, which allows production in a short time regardless of environmental factors. MEL was applied to the calli in various concentrations, and the effect on the amount and quality of phytochemicals was determined. MEL stimulated the production of the maximum quantity of sage calli and the synthesis of secondary metabolites when applied as an elicitor at a certain ratio (100 M). The callus induction rate decreased while the MEL concentration increased. Among the phytochemicals scanned by HPLC and GC-MS, especially the amount of rosmaniric acid was found to increase by 75% (100 µM). The amount of rosmarinic acid decreased gradually in the 200 µM and control groups. The color differences of the callus cultures were also considerable. The color, which was quite dark brown at 100 µM MEL, turned into a light color as the amount of rosmariniric acid decreased. In addition, phytochemicals such as α-thujone (27.56%), 1.8-cineole (5.9%), camphor (16.84%) analyzed in 100 µM MEL application have the highest rates compared to other applications. Phytochemicals present in the control group but not in the MEL treatments, and components present in the treatments but not in the control were detected (1.8-cineol, some aldehyde groups). Therefore, stimulating the production of pharmacologically valuable phytochemicals that can be obtained with a certain amount of MEL application in sage cell culture medium will provide an important commercial advantage.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The in vitro anthelmintic activity of essential oils from the Lamiaceae family species against Ancylostoma spp. eggs was evaluated, as well as the chemical composition by GC/MS of these essential oils. The major chemical compounds for O. vulgare were 4-terpineol, while for the essential oil of O. majorana, o 4-terpineol, and for the oil of R. officinalis it was observed cineole as major components. For this, hatchability tests were performed, where the parasite eggs were exposed to concentrations of 0.07% to 2.5% of the essential oils of Origanum vulgare, Origanum majorana and Rosmarinus officinalis. The assay was accompanied by a control with thiabendazole hydrochloride, a control with distilled water and a control with tween 80. The chemical composition of each essential oil sample was determined by gas chromatography. It was observed that all oils showed ovicidal action, and the percentage of inhibition of hatchability of R. officinalis oil was greater than 90% at concentrations from 0.62% to 2.5%. As for the essential oils of O. vulgare and O. majorana, the concentrations of 0.31% to 2.5% were those that presented an inhibitory percentage greater than 90%. Thus, this study showed that the essential oils of R. officinalis, O. vulgare and O. majorana inhibit the hatchability of Ancylostoma spp., being promising for the control of this helminth.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Communication in science requires standardized terminology with concepts unified that facilitate the processing and exploration of information in any knowledge domain. The morphology is not the exception; however, it has challenged problems, called “the linguistic problem of the morphology”, which is related to the processing of morphological data result of taxonomic work. Ontologies, standardized vocabularies expressed through language parsable (Resource Description Framework, RDF) by machines, are proposed to resolve the linguistic problems in morphology. Springtails are dominants in the soil and other types of habitats with ca 9000 described species. The anatomical terms employed in Collembola are not exempt from problems such as the presence of homonyms related to the chaetotaxy, idiosyncratic language employed in morphological descriptions, and lack of consensual definitions of anatomical terms, which difficult the comparison of morphological data. Collembola Anatomy Ontology (CLAO) is built according to principles established by The OBO Foundry and includes 1554 anatomical terms for the region of the cuticle, appendages, anatomical systems, and cells. CLAO is directed toward morphological descriptions and the production of phenotypic data produced from taxonomic and anatomical works before the obtaining of homologies in a phylogenetic framework. Also, to increase the interoperability with other anatomical ontologies for Arthropoda and knowledge domains.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Phenolic compounds are frequently found in the specific tissues in the leaves and stems of Baccharis species. However, only a few species of the genus have been studied in recent years, including B. erioclada. This study evaluates the in vitro antioxidant potential of B. erioclada crude extract and its fractions. Phytochemical studies, including quantification of total phenolics and flavonoids have also been carried out. Crude extract presented higher antioxidant capacity since it showed lower values of IC50 or greater reductive capacity compared to the fractions. The total phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the crude extract were quantified as 160.66 mg/g and 47.98 mg/g, respectively. Hispidulin showed 27,2296 g/100 g of dried extract. The present study evidenced that B. erioclada extracts are promising sources of antioxidant compounds.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women throughout the world. Research on natural anti-cancer products from plants has gained traction. Salvia L. species and their derivatives are rare in Turkey and have suggested for their potential anti-cancer effects. The aim of this study is to assess the potential cytotoxic/apoptotic activities of methanol extract of Salvia candidissima Vahl. subsp. candidissima (SCE) on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. A GCxGC-TOF/MS system and a dual stage commercial thermal desorption injector were used to determine the chemical components of SCE. MTT and ATP viability tests were used to investigate the anti-growth activity. The apoptosis-inducing effect was assessed using a fluorescence staining method. Caspase-cleaved keratin 18 (ccK18, M30-antigen) levels measured by M30-CytoDeath ELISA Kit. The results showed that SCE suppressed the survival of the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner, based on the findings of both MTT and ATP cell viability tests and pyknotic cell nuclei were observed via fluorescent staining in both cell lines after 48 h of treatment. The treatment group had greater levels of caspase-cleaved keratin 18 in the MCF-7 cells than the untreated group. These results showed that SCE triggers apoptosis, causes cell death in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. SCE may become promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of breast cancer with further in vitro and in vivo studies.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The main concern of today's agricultural production around the world is a cleaner and greener approach to crop production. Streptomyces species with distinct characteristics can be found in soil. The current research focuses on Streptomyces species isolated from marine sediment samples. To evaluate the morphology and biochemical properties of the isolated Streptomyces strain ukm1, it was grown in Starch Casein Nitrate (SCN) agar medium. Morphological, biochemical, and 16s rRNA analysis were performed on the strain. Streptomyces sp. was identified based on these findings. The production of bioactive metabolites by strain nkm1 was carried out in five different fermentative media. After 10 days of incubation, M6 medium was found to be efficient and was extracted with ethyl acetate. The MIC values revealed that the ethyl acetate extract inhibited the growth of plant pathogenic fungi such as Phytophthora palmivora (31.25 g/ml), Aspergillus flavus (15.62 g/ml), Rhizoctonia solani (31.25 g/ml), and Cladosporium herbarum (31.25 g/ml). The GC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate extract revealed 26 components, the major volatile bioactive compound being nonadecane.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Palm trees are striking elements of tropical forests and provide many jobs for Amazonian populations. The research's objective was to identify the palm trees present in the local way of life, the one with the highest consensus value for use in two riverside communities in Abaetetuba, Pará, and evaluate traditional knowledge and implications for residents' way of life. The study was carried out in Rio Urubueua de Fátima (R.U.F) and Nossa Senhora dos Anjos (N.S.A). The interviewees' selection was made by non-probabilistic sampling. The data were obtained through participant observation, semi-structured interview, non-specific induction, annotation in a field diary, and audiovisual record. Of the total palm trees cited, the Ethno-species Inajá was chosen due to its consensus use-value with values of 0.438 for R.U.F. (with 36 citations) and 0.484 N.S.A. (27). Three categories of use were identified: food, construction, and utensils. The high consensus of service is justified by the wide use from its various parts, being a reference as a plant of full use for making it possible to obtain food, protection, shelter, and utensils. Its use is related to the vast repertoires of the interlocutors received from their ancestors. This implies the importance of a species for maintaining people's social lives in two Amazonian riverside communities that depend on nature for their livelihood and quality of life.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Due to human activities in urban areas, they are in a state of rapid change for ecological alteration, which has resulted in a threat to the local plant diversity. Floristic study of a particular region helps everyone to get knowledge about forest management and the ecosystem associated with the existing plant resources of that particular region. Survey and documentation of the floristic wealth of a region are prerequisites for planning and proper utilization of its potential plant resources on the one hand and the depleting genetic resources on the other. The present paper provides the first and most comprehensive account of the monocotyledon flora of Rourkela Steel City in Sundargarh, Odisha. The floristic study of this region demonstrates a wide range of species diversity and growth. From the present investigation of the study area, the floristic exploration of monocotyledons of the Rourkela Steel City revealed the presence of 146 species in 96 genera under 28 families. Poaceae is the most dominant family with 40 species, followed by Cyperaceae (20 spp.).The dominant genus is Cyperus, with 12 species, followed by Dioscorea and Fimbristylis with four species each. The resulted plants had high utility values for food, fodder, ethnomedicine, fiber, etc. Since Rourkela is one of the units for the development of area and programs, the present inventory work will be helpful for the completion of the Rourkela flora as well as the Flora of Sundargarh district and will provide necessary information for an up-to-date compilation of the “Flora of Odisha”.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study aimed to determine the biometric characteristics of seeds of Tabebuia aurea and evaluate the effect of different periods of water immersion on the initial growth of seedlings. For this, the following dimensions were analyzed: length, width, and thickness of seeds with lateral wings and embryo. The moisture content, weight of a thousand seeds, and the number of seeds per kilogram were determined. The seeds were subjected to 11 treatments, as follow: control (no immersion in water; 0 hours) and periods of water immersion for 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48, 54, and 60 hours, with four replications of 25 seeds in each treatment. The aerial part and seedling root lengths were analyzed 30 days after sowing. The water content was 9.81% and the weight of a thousand seeds was 130.260 g, corresponding to about 7,677 seeds/kg. The seeds with lateral wings had mean length, width, and thickness of 5.252, 1.226, and 0.147 cm, respectively. For the embryo, these dimensions corresponded to 1.355, 0.805, and 0.103 cm. Regarding the aerial part and root length of T. aurea seedlings, immersion for 48 hours is recommended because this treatment had the best results.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Animal genetic resources (AnGR), which are a component of biodiversity in agriculture, has an essential role in sustainable agricultural development. Given the significance of AnGR for each nation, all communities need to maintain genetic diversity by preserving indigenous livestock and poultry populations as well as implementing the national plans and policies. This study aims at developing a web-based GIS to collect and monitor information on livestock and poultry genetic resources across the country for typical decision-making activities in the organizational and managerial sectors, where resource managers and policymakers with various ideas can put their conservation best practices into action. The suggested system integrates and organizes the concepts and tools from three distinct study areas, including AnGR, GIS, and web technologies into a unified framework. Data on the different breeds of six species including cattle, sheep, poultry, goat, horse and camel are currently being entered into the system. System implementation consists a four-step process that includes identification and data collection, data entry, querying, and planning and decision-making. The system as a whole contributes towards increased efficiency in the managing and monitoring the farm AnGR (FAnGR) by allowing users to query, visualize, manage, reuse, map and store FAnGR-related data.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Brown rot and blossom blight caused by fungi of the genus Monilinia are the most important peach diseases. The increased concern with the environment and the health of workers and consumers, as well as the emergence of fungus isolates resistant to the main fungicide molecules favor control strategies such as genetic resistance. The objective of this study was to adjust a phenotyping protocol for evaluation of resistance/susceptibility to blossom blight in peach, as well as to quantify the antioxidant compounds present in the petals of these flowers and their correlation with the disease incidence and severity. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block split-split plot design, the plot being four concentrations of Monilinia fructicola conidia; the subplot two phenological flower stage; and the sub-subplot four peach genotypes. The quantification of antioxidant compounds and their correlation with susceptibility to blossom blight was performed in the four genotypes analyzed. Phenotyping was more efficient when concentrations between 400 and 4,000 conidia mL-1 were used, regardless of phenological flower stage. The phenolic compounds, anthocyanins and antioxidant activity are positively correlated among them, and negatively correlated with the blossom blight incidence and severity. In order to estimate the blossom blight susceptibility, it is recommended to use flowers at the pink or bloom stage, inoculum equivalent to 20-200 conidia per flower, and perform the evaluation at 96 hours after inoculation. This study suggests that more intense pink flowers have a higher content of antioxidant compounds and less blossom blight susceptibility.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The present study aimed for the molecular detection of Rickettsia spp. in ticks collected from military training areas in southeastern Brazil. Previously, a total of 9,374 free-living ticks in 66 military instruction areas of five Military Organizations (MOs) were collected. From these, a sample of 1,885 ticks was used for molecular analysis..DNA extraction was performed using the “HotSHOT” technique, and PCR was performed using the Rickettsia spp. gltA, 17kDa and ompA genes. It was found that 11 samples produced DNA sequences of sizes compatible with the Rickettsia spp. gltA and 17kDa gene and two of these, also for ompA, with a prevalence of 0.58% (11/1885). Analyses of amplified fragments of gltA identified the samples as Rickettsia bellii in seven nymphs of Amblyomma dubitatum and one nymph of Amblyomma sculptum, and identified samples as Rickettsia sp. in two nymphs of A. dubitatum and one of A. sculptum. This finding warns the possibility of the risk of exposure of military personnel to ticks infected with Rickettsia spp. during training.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Brazil is a major producer of bananas, being the world's fourth-largest producer. The fruit is a source of minerals and vitamins and, when green, has a high content of resistant starch. Among the possibilities of processing, green banana flour has gained prominence due to its physical, nutritional, and functional characteristics, which can be used for the making of different food products. However, the raw material and the processing steps can influence these characteristics. Thus, this study aimed to provide information ranging from the choice of raw material to the sensory acceptance of consumers. The present work discussed the influence of ripening on fruit characteristics, processing stages and flour characteristics as a result of the different used fruits part or cultivar/variety of banana, and the possibilities of products with good technological quality and sensory acceptance of products made with green bananas flours by Brazilian consumers. One of the main differences provided by the cultivar is the flour yield, which is higher in banana cultivars with lower moisture content and selected for frying. There is little information regarding the whole green banana flour, which could reduce waste and contribute nutritionally to preparations. New products having green banana flours as an ingredient show wide possibilities for a partial or total replacement to other flours, as well as good sensory acceptance, which has led to a growing interest in banana processing and its growing market.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The effect of three independent variables i.e. blanching time (3- 7 minutes), L-ascorbic acid (25-75 mg) and lemon juice (2.5-7.5 mL) was studied on the quality of spinach- lemon- tulsi ready-to-serve (RTS) beverage. The process was optimized using BBD- RSM methodology and the linear effect of the independent variables on the quality parameter was studied using Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA). A total of 15 runs including 3 centre points per block were obtained in BBD RSM and each run was analysed for different quality parameters i.e. total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity, reducing sugars, total sugars, ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity and overall acceptability. TSS, titratable acidity, reducing sugars, total sugars, ascorbic acid, DPPH free radical scavenging activity and overall acceptability ranged from 10.60 to 13.20°B, 0.37 to 0.50 % as citric acid, 1.70 to 3.10%, 6.30 to 8.20%, 42.30 to 64.90 mg/100 gm, 64.00 to 80.20%, and 6.6-8.3 (on a 9-point hedonic scale), respectively. The results analysed by BBD-RSM suggested a blanching time of 5.47 minutes, 75 mg L-ascorbic acid and 6.24 mL lemon juice are the optimum conditions for the preparation of spinach-lemon-tulsi RTS beverage. As per the CCA, the total variance of the independent variables on the dependent variables was 79%. L-ascorbic acid and lemon juice were found to have a positive effect on dependent variables. The model also suggested that an increase in blanching time could harm the quality of the beverage.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Red dog flour (RDF), a milling by-product, is rich in nutritionally and functionally crucial components. Extrusion conditions for extruded corn snacks (ECS) with RDF were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with Box-Behnken Design (moisture content: 13.5%, RDF ratio: 20%, screw speed: 468 rpm, and die temperature: 110°C). Then, functional, nutritional, and sensory properties of ECS containing an increasing ratio of RDF were determined. The addition of RDF improved ash (1,84 fold), fat (2,7 fold) protein (0,51 fold), dietary fiber (roughly 2,8 fold), and mineral content (Fe, K Mg, P, and Se) significantly compared to ECS without RDF. Extrusion condition considerably declined the total phenolic content (from 144.50 to 25,09 mg GAE/100g), Trolox equivalent of antioxidant capacity (from 1.13 to 0.41 mMol Trolox/g), and phytic acid content (from 2147 to 968.11 mg/100g) of ECS with RDF compared to raw materials. However, the increasing ratio of RDF had an increment in bioactive compounds (up to 2,38 fold mg GAE/100g, and 1,63 fold mMol Trolox/g) and phytic acid content (up to 0.36 fold). According to the sensory evaluation, 30% of ECS with RDF was the most preferable snack.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The pistachio nut (Pistacia vera L.) is a popular nut which is beneficial for health. As a result of its high price, adulteration of pistachio products with other foods is common. The green pea (Pisum sativum L.) is similar to pistachio in colour and texture when both are in a fine powder form, therefore powdered pistachio products are often adulterated with powdered green pea. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel method based on high resolution melting (HRM) to detect green pea adulteration in powdered pistachio products as low as in ratio. Novel primers that targeted the chloroplastidial sequence atpA, rpoC1 and ycf3 were tested on admixture ratios of 90:10, 99:1, 499:1 and 999:1 of pistachio:green pea. The melting temperatures (Tm) were found to detect the adulteration for the targets rpoC1 and ycf3. Since the atpA amplicons have identical guanine-cytosine content in both pistachio and green pea PCR products, it failed to distinguish the admixtures from the positive control samples. Differential plots and genotyping confidence percentages clearly distinguished the admixtures from positive controls down to a 0.1% ratio of pistachio:green pea. Sequencing of the amplicons supported the use of HRM to distinguish between pistachio and green pea. The use of HRM with novel rpoC1 and ycf3 primer sets was found to be useful for rapid, cost-effective, and reliable detection of green pea adulteration of pistachio down to a ratio of 0.1%.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The goal of this study was to evaluate the α-amylases production by basidiomycetes in submerged cultivation (SmC), using wheat milling by-products as substrate. Enzymatic activity was evaluated to select the best strain, the ideal concentration, the by-product and the influence of supplementation in the culture medium. The best producer was chosen among three strains, Ganoderma applanatum (MR-56), Schizophyllum commune (MR-01), and Ganoderma stipitatum (MR-72). All of them were cultivated under the same conditions. MR-56 was selected for an initial screening activity of 5.10±0.31 U/mL in 192h. The Ganoderma applanatum strain was cultured in a medium with various starch concentrations to determine which concentration resulted in the highest α-amylase activity. After 120h of cultivation, activity in the medium containing 4.5% (w/v) had increased from 0.40±0.03 U/mL to 20.70±0.9 U/mL. Subsequently, the wheat milling by-products [Glue Flour (GF), Clean-Out Flour (CF4) Flour, and Low-grade Flour (LGF)] were evaluated in aqueous suspension with and without nutritional supplementation. It was shown that GF and LGF are potential starch sources which do not require nutritional supplementation, exhibiting increases in α-amylase activity of 31.79 U/mL and 30.98 U/mL, respectively. This is the first report involving the application of Ganoderma applanatum in SmC for α-amylase production using synthetic and wheat milling by-products. The results also demonstrated that wheat milling by-products may also be used without supplementation for cell growth and enzyme production, contributing to the development of more sustainable forms of enzyme production through the innovative use of edible organisms with medicinal properties.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract A study was conducted to record the effect of modified atmospheric packaging (MAP), storage conditions (ambient, zero energy cool chamber and refrigerated) as well as storage period on shelf-life and quality of tomatoes produced through Subhash Palekar natural farming (SPNF) and chemical farming (CHEM) systems. Freshly harvested tomatoes (SPNF and CHEM) packed in LDPE pouches (25.40 μm and 10 pin holes/100 cm2 area) and without packaging were stored under ambient (27±2 °C and 70±2% RH), zero energy cool chamber (ZECC) (17±2 °C and 82 ±2 % RH) and low temperature conditions (10±2 ºC and 90 % RH) for shelf-life studies. The shelf-life comparison was done at every two days’ interval up to 24 days based on physiological loss in weight (PLW) and spoilage percentage. SPNF and CHEM tomatoes were compared on the basis of quality attributes (firmness, acidity, TSS, sugars, total phenols, antioxidant activity etc.), mineral content and sensory characteristics. Results revealed that tomato stored in refrigerated condition had significantly (p ˂0.05) lowest PLW and spoilage incidence and highest sensory acceptability up to 24 days and was at par with ZECC stored tomatoes. Quality evaluation indicated that tomatoes grown under SPNF system contained a higher amount of total solids, total sugars, reducing sugars, ascorbic acid, total phenols and ash. The results showed that tomatoes with MAP and stored under refrigerated storage condition retained maximum quality up to 24 days followed by tomatoes stored under ZECC (18 days) compared to 12 days at ambient conditions.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Royal Jelly (RJ) is a unique functional food having rich nutrient composition. Due to its extremely sensitive and perishable nature, the cold chain is inevitable to maintain the biological properties of RJ. Microencapsulation is considered as an alternative technology for commercial RJ forms, owing to the elimination of cold-chain requirements. The objective of the study is to evaluate the microencapsulation of RJ and its protective effect on the 10-HDA content as well as on the antimicrobial activity during a defined storage period. Microcapsules were formed by utilizing alginate cross-linking technique in the encapsulator (Buchi B-390, Flawil, Switzerland) under 450 mbar. The antibacterial and antifungal activity of fresh and microencapsulated royal jelly (MRJ) was examined, comparatively. The possible changes in antimicrobial activity in the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months were evaluated considering the changes in 10-HDA levels. The antimicrobial efficiency of RJ on test bacteria (Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Salmonella Enteritidis, Escherichia coli) and yeast (Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis) was maintained throughout the storage period. On the other hand, antifungal activity on test molds (Penicillium digitatum, Aspergillus flavus) slightly decreased from the 3rd month. No significant difference between 10-HDA contents was observed until the end of storage (p˃0.05). The results indicate that microencapsulation retains the 10-HDA content of RJ for six months and is a promising method enabling storage at room temperature.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Utilizing food waste is crucial for several reasons, including preserving valuable ingredients, lowering formulation costs, taking advantage of its functional properties, and preserving the environment. Grapefruit waste (GW) and Tomato waste (TW) are used in oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion formulation to investigate their contributions to emulsion stability, textural parameters, and steady shear rheological properties of the model system. O/W emulsions were formed with four different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 3%) of GW and TW, and chicken breast meat and corn oil were the main components of emulsions. Both food wastes increased emulsion stability (ES) in most concentrations compared to the control. The best ES of 86.35 was observed at a concentration of 1% TW emulsion. Emulsions were subjected to texture profile analysis as both row and heat-treated. Heat-treated emulsions had higher hardness values (241.2-518.6 g) than the row emulsions (149.7-247.2 g). All emulsions were found to have pseudoplastic character and exhibit shear thinning behavior. All emulsion samples' apparent viscosity fit well with the Ostwald-de-Waele model (R2>0.9). Food waste samples used in the study improved the chicken-type O/W emulsion properties in terms of emulsion stability and textural properties.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the use of an oxy-hydrogen generator for preparing hydrogen-rich water (HRW) and studying its effects on the L. garvieae- affected zebrafish. 0, 10, 20, and 100% HRW were prepared to determine the effects of HRW on the mortality rate and gene expression levels of L. garvieae infected- zebrafish. After 48 hours of bacterial injection, the mortality rate of fish was 0, 0, 0, 66, 80, and 100% for the non-infected and non- HRW (G1), infected and 100% HRW (G5), non-infected and 100% HRW (G6), infected and 20% HRW (G4), infected and 10% HRW (G3), and infected without HRW (G2) groups. After 54 hours, there was a non-significant change in immunity-related gene expression levels (IL-1β and IL-6) between non-infected 100% HRW (G6) and non-infected non- HRW control (G1) groups. Gene expression levels were significantly upregulated for IL-1β (14, 13, and 9 times), IL-6 (48, 48, and 22 times), and SOD (9 times for each) genes in G2, G3, and G4 groups, respectively, but not for G5 comparing with control group G1. IL-1β and IL-6 gene expression levels decreased with the increase of hydrogen levels in the water. These results show that HRW could decrease (G3 and G4) and prevent (G5) the mortality of L. garvieae infected- zebrafish. This demonstrates the importance of the application of HRW for the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases of fish using a non-toxic compound as a green method without any residual effects on fish or water.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study aimed to examine the shriveling parameters and some aerobic microbial qualities of waste watermelons in a combined solar energy drying system (CDS) and an open sun drying system (OSDS). Results showed that the CDS was better than the OSDS in terms of the temperature, relative humidity, surface temperature, time, and speed of reaching the target humidity level of the air-shriveled watermelon slices. The number of mesophilic aerobic bacteria (log10 cfu/g) increased in the shriveled (P>0.05) silages compared to fresh watermelon slices in the CDS and OSDS groups and decreased in silages (P<0.05). Compared to fresh watermelon slices, yeast count (log10 cfu/g) decreased in the shriveled CDS group (P>0.05) and increased in the OSDS group (P>0.05) and was not detected in silages. No mold was determined in the fresh watermelon slices and silages in the CDS and OSDS groups. However, mold was found to be higher in the shriveled slices in the OSDS group than in the CDS group (P<0.05). Aflatoxin was not detected in the fresh, shriveled and silage watermelon slices. As a result, it was determined in this study that the CDS group was more advantageous in terms of slaking parameters compared to the OSDS group in the shriveling process of the waste watermelon slices, which had not been previously studied. It was observed that there was no significant difference between the two systems in terms of aerobic microbial quality determined during the wilting and ensiling process.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The present work evaluated the agronomic behavior of species and varieties of Pleurotus submitted or not to the scratching technique. The cultivated species/varieties were Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus ostreatus var. Florida, and Pleurotus djamor, where half of the treatments were scratched before the first and second flushes, while the rest were only scratched before the second flush. Yield (%), biological efficiency (%), weight of mushroom (g) and number of mushrooms (uni) were evaluated. It was observed that scratching harmed the mushroom weight for P. ostreatus, where the treatment without scratching produced significantly higher values, in the first harvest flush. On the other hand, scratching favored yield and the number of mushrooms for P. djamor. When the species are compared, it is noted that P. ostreatus obtained a lower yield, which was also reflected in the biological efficiency. P. djamor stood out with a large number of mushrooms, statistically higher than the other species, on the other hand, producing mushrooms of low weight of mushroom. The use of the scratched technique is not recommended for the conditions used in the work, due to the increase in labor and loss of mushroom weight.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The serrano artisanal cheese (SAC) is a traditional raw milk dairy produced in southern Brazil. The maturation temperature plays a crucial role regarding the cheeses’ microbiological and physicochemical features and has been underexplored when it comes to unpasteurized milk dairy in Brazil. The objective of the present work is to evaluate the effect of ripening temperature on foodborne bacteria (total and thermotolerant coliforms, positive coagulase Staphylococcus and the production of its enterotoxin, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp.) and physicochemical attributes (moisture, water activity, pH, acidity and sodium chloride concentration) of SAC during maturation at 5ºC-20ºC for up to 60 days. Metagenomic analysis was also evaluated through the rDNA 16S method at ripening time of 0-60 days. The samples were safe for L.monocytogenes, E.coli, Salmonella spp. and staphylococcal toxin. The physicochemical parameters reached legal boundaries as follows: moisture, after 30 days at 5ºC; fat, after 30 days at 12.5ºC and 20ºC; fat at dry extract, after 30 days at 12.5ºC or 15 days at 5ºC. The microbiological features indicate that positive coagulase Staphylococcus reached legal conditions after 30 days when cheeses were ripped at 12.5ºC and 20ºC; thermotolerant coliforms after 30 days at 12.5ºC and 20ºC; and total coliforms after 15 days at 20ºC. Lower temperatures lead to lower inactivation rates, and Staphylococcus did not reach legal parameters at 5ºC positive coagulase regarding moisture, water activity and pH reduction. Meanwhile, sodium chloride concentration and enhanced acidity played important role regarding foodborne pathogen inactivation. The main lactic acid bacteria within the cheeses during ripening were Enterococcus sp. and Lactococcus sp.

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Abstract This study aimed to isolate sourdough starters and use them in the production of dephytinized wheat bran enriched bread. Four different sourdoughs, used separately in bread production, which were spontaneous sourdough (SS), Type II sourdough produced with Lactobacillus fermentum, isolated from SS, as a starter (LFS), local produced sourdough (Vakfıkebir, Trabzon, Türkiye) (VS), and Type II sourdough produced with Lactococcus lactis, isolated from VS, as a starter (LCS). The dephytinization process effectively reduced the phytic acid level of bran at the rate of 95.21 g/100 g. The highest specific volume was determined in the control bread produced with the local sourdough sample (3.27 mL/g). The lowest specific volume was determined in the sample of bread containing 15% dephytinized wheat bran produced with Lactococcus lactis fermented sourdough (1.82 mL/g). As expected, increasing bran level caused decreased L* value of bread samples and increased a* and b* values. The high rates of bran had deleterious effects on the texture of bread. Additionally, the changes in texture profile were more intense in bread samples containing dephytinized wheat bran during storage. According to the sensory analysis results, it was determined that the scores of bread samples produced with Lactobacillus fermentum sourdough and including 5% wheat bran were higher.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Due to the short harvest season and their sensitivity to storage, the preservation of fresh mulberry fruits is a very important process. Drying is a method used to preserve mulberry fruits in the long term. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was applied for the optimization of hybrid drying conditions of two different sour black mulberries. The linear and interaction effects of independent parameters such as temperature (50, 60 and 70°C) and microwave power (100, 200 and 300 W) variables were determined on mulberries. Bioactive properties and energy aspects were monitored as influenced by drying conditions. According to the results increase in microwave power provided a significant decrement in the specific energy consumption (SEC) and the total anthocyanin content (TAC), while increase in the energy efficiency (ηen) and total phenolic content (TPC) for both genotypes. In all cases, statistical values showed that all drying curves of black mulberry were best described by the Logistic model. Multiple response optimization was carried out for studied parameters and it was concluded that maximum antiradical activity (ARA), TPC, TAC, ηen and minimum drying time (DT) and SEC values would be at 300 W-50 ºC (desirability=0.842) and 300 W-66.5 ºC (desirability=0.744), for Morus nigra 1 (MN1) and Morus nigra 2 (MN2), respectively. According to the finding, the greatest TPC, ARA, TAC, DT, SEC and ηen were determined as 20.10 mg GAE/g, 86.00%, 456 mg/kg, 330 min, 18.59 kWh/kg and 9.04% for MN1, and 18.08 mg GAE/g, 83.92%, 835.81 mg/kg, 330 min, 16.16 kWh/kg and 10.40 % for MN2, respectively.

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Abstract In this study, the usability of crab apple as a natural food colorant for apple marmalade was investigated. Marmalades were stored at 9, 22, and 35 oC for 6 months and analyzed some physicochemical and biochemical parameters. Titratable acidity decreased with the increase of storage temperature and time in marmalades compared to the initial values. As the storage temperature and time increased, the lightness (L*), redness (a*), chroma (C*) values of the samples decreased, while the hue angle (h) and yellowness (b*) values increased. The increase in temperature and time during the storage period caused a significant decrease in total phenolic content, total monomeric anthocyanin, and antioxidant activity values. The degradation of anthocyanins during storage occurred according to first-order reaction kinetics. According to the results obtained, the addition of crab apple juice concentrate allowed the desired level of color to be formed in apple marmalade as well as a functional product.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In this study, the usability of crab apple (Malus floribunda), which can be consumed as food but has limited economic use, as a natural colorant in Turkish delight was investigated. Crab apple concentrate was added to Turkish delight at a rate of 1.83% during production. Produced Turkish delight were stored at 22, 28 and 35 oC for 6 months and analyzed some physicochemical and biochemical parameters. With the increase in storage temperature and time, there were no significant changes in the titratable acidity compared to the initial values. As the storage temperature and time increased, the L*, a*, C* values of all samples decreased, while the b* and h values increased. The increase in temperature and time during the 6-month storage period caused a significant decrease in total phenolic, total monomeric anthocyanin and antioxidant activity values. Degradation of crab apple anthocyanins during storage occurred according to first-order reaction kinetics. The degradation rate constants of anthocyanin in Turkish delight stored at 22, 28 and 35 °C were determined as -4.2x10-3 days-1, -8.7x10-3 days-1 and -14.2x10-3 days-1, respectively. According to the results obtained, the addition of crab apple juice concentrate gave both desired color and functional properties to Turkish delight.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg (SH), often isolated from broiler chicken samples, damages the entire production chain due to its high resistance in the environment. The search for sustainable disinfectant agents has intensified, focusing on the action of essential oils. This work's objective was to evaluate the in vitro, effect of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (TEO) and thymol in SH isolated from broilers, and the cytotoxicity in animal cells. Four different concentrations of TEO (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.8%, (v/v)) were used against five SH isolates obtained from broilers and ATCC 8326. Thymol was evaluated at the concentrations of 0.023%, 0.047%, 0.071%, and 0.094% (v/v). In vitro antibacterial assays were performed by quantifying viable planktonic cells in the broth microdilution test. The MTT technique was used to assess the cytotoxicity in IEC-6 intestinal cells and NCTC fibroblasts. IC50 was assessed testing the concentrations of 0.0625%, 0.125%, 0.25%, and 0.5% of TEO and thymol in 24 hours. The bacterial activity was observed from the 0.2% concentration of TEO since no colony-forming units were observed. Thymol in the concentration of 0.094% controlled 83.33% of the bacteria. TEO presented an IC50 of 0.14% and 1.22%, while the IC50 for thymol was 0.068% and 0.001% for the IEC-6 and NCTC cells, respectively. On the other hand, TEO showed low cytotoxicity in fibroblasts and a potential action capacity to eliminate SH strains in vitro.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Bromelain is a mix of proteolytic enzymes obtained from the pineapple plant's fruit or stem. The effect of various rates of bromelain supplementation on broiler growth and carcass performance, meat quality, antioxidant metabolism, and blood profiles were examined in this study. In total, 288 male broiler chicks (Ross 308) one-day-old were used to determine the effects of different doses of bromelain (0, 0.15, 0.30, and 0.45 g / kg diet) during the six-week trial period. The trial groups consisted of six replicates of twelve animals each. Bromelain (30g/kg diet) improved the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and increased final body weight (BW) and body weight gain (BWG) (P<0.05). Bromelain increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the drumstick tissue (P<0.05). Bromelain decreased serum cholesterol (COL), High-density lipoprotein (HDL), and Low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Bromelain did not affect drumstick and breast meats' pH value but had shown a limited and variable effect on the color parameters and Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) during the storage period. Bromelain increased goblet cell number (GCN), crypt depth (CD), villus length (VL), and epithelial height (EH) (P<0.05) in the small intestine. In conclusion, bromelain had a minor impact on meat microbiological quality but improved intestinal morphology and final performance parameters.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Cold-induced sweetening (CIS) of potatoes is an industrial problem. Tuber antioxidant activity during cold storage may relate to CIS-resistance and quality storage but not well studied. CIS and antioxidant activity were measured in tubers of eleven potato genotypes during cold storage of four months. During first month, tubers were found to lose starch and produce CIS but improve starch later between 1-2 months. Loss of starch during first month was seen less and gain of starch between 1-2 months was seen high in CIS-resistant genotypes versus CIS-susceptible genotypes. Acid invertase activity increased during first month but this increase was related to CIS in CIS-susceptible genotypes as CIS-resistant genotypes also increased acid invertase. Redox state of ascorbate decreased and H2O2 increased during first month of storage and this change was related to CIS-susceptibility. Catalase and peroxidase levels at one month of storage related to CIS-resistance. During further storage, redox state of ascorbate decreased, H2O2/toxicity increased but tuber quality related to maintained antioxidant levels specially in the form of catalase. Results concluded that genotype with high tuber antioxidant activity may be beneficial for both CIS-resistance and quality storage.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study evaluated the efficacy of pH and temperature on the thermal resistance of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris endospores in different fruit juices. A polynomial equation was used to describe the pH x temperature impact on the D-values of endospores. Endospore resistance was influenced by fruit juice matrices. Maximum heat resistance was found in passion fruit juice (D value 24.7±2.8 min, 90 ºC, pH 4.5) and the greatest thermal destruction was observed in papaya juice (D value 1.7±2.8 min, 95 °C, pH 2.5). Regardless of the fruit juice, endospore thermal destruction was more effective at 95 °C. In both temperatures analyzed, the effect of pH on the reduction of heat resistance was more pronounced in papaya juice. According to the mathematical models, the interaction pH x temperature had the greatest impact on endospores thermal reduction. These results emphasize the relevance of time⁄temperature binomials to prevent spoilage by A. acidoterrestris in thermal treated fruit juices.

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Abstract The present study aims to increase the number of tarhana versions, which have traditionally had a place in our culture, in order to increase the range of vegan products. In the present study, it was aimed to diversify the versions of tarhana, which has had a place in our traditional culture. For this purpose sauced and sauce-free vegan tarhana (yogurt-free) samples added with red beet (Beta vulgaris var. Cruenta) powder at different concentrations (control, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%) samples were produced. Several physicochemical, microbiological, and sensorial properties of tarhanas produced were examined. Vegan tarhana with tomato sauce with 1.0% red beet powder had the highest score for consistency, taste, aroma and general acceptability. The highest score of color and odor properties was determined in vegan tarhana with tomato sauce added with 2.0% red beet powder. Ash, total acidity, protein, water-holding capacity, total dietary fiber, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity increased in parallel with red beet powder concentration. It was found that microbiological characteristics met the standards for tarhana, that the total number of mesophilic aerobic bacteria was higher than that of total yeast-mold. Staphylococcus aureus and coliform-group bacteria could not be detected in vegan tarhanas with red beet powder. In conclusion, it can be stated that all the vegan tarhanas with red beet powder samples had equivalent physicochemical and bioactive characteristics in comparison to the tarhana samples examined in the literature.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The present research aimed to experimentally and statistically investigate the effects of current and time parameters on the inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 using the silver anode technique. Accordingly, cold raw milk was divided into groups and the experimental design was carried out according to the Taguchi L16 index. Four levels of current intensity (5, 10, 15, and 20 µA) and duration (15, 30, 45, and 60 sec) were selected as the process parameters, and the bacterial colony count was chosen as the output parameter. The bacteria were inoculated into raw milk, stored in the cold and the silver anode technique was applied. After incubation Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial colony counts were determined. Experimentally-obtained bacterial colony counts were statistically analyzed using the Taguchi method, ANOVA, and regression analysis. The optimum process parameters for the lowest bacterial colony count (Nc) were 20 µA current and 60-second duration. Also according to the variance analysis results, the current intensity was the most effective process parameter on the bacterial colony counts. The regression model developed to estimate the output parameter (bacterial colony counts) yielded successful results with a high determination coefficient (R2) of 96.26%.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study was aimed to evaluate the capacity of lactic acid bacteria to use commercial resistant starch types as prebiotics. In addition, the prebiotic capacities of resistant starch types were compared. Among the commercially resistant starch types, type 2 (Hi-Maize 260), type 3 (Novelose 330), and type 4 (Demirpolat) resistant starches were used. Lactic acid bacteria have been isolated from kefir, pastırma, cucurbita and beetroots pickled. Four different lactic acid bacteria were purchased as type cultures. It was revealed that Hi-maize 260, Novelose 330 and Demirpolat commercial resistant starch products were fermented by all lactic acid bacteria in the study. At the end of the study, the highest bacterial density was determined in L. sakei (8.P1.8) utilizing Novelose 330, in L. plantarum (K2-1) using Hi-maize 260 and in L. sakei (5.P1.5) using Demirpolat at the 48th hour. In general, it was found that the L. sakei bacterial group used all resistant starch products at the best level at the 48th hour. Commercial-resistant starch products are used as carbon sources by lactic acid bacteria. Therefore, these resistant starch products can be accepted as a prebiotic component and contribute to the development of new functional foods in the food industry.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Sweet potatoes (SP) have gained attention in the media as foods recommended for healthy diets. When preparing the roots for consumption, however, cooking methods do alter their chemical, physical and nutritional properties. In order to assess the changes in carbohydrates of four SP accessions, after common cooking treatments (pressure cooker, convection oven and microwave oven), the contents of sugars and total starch, as well as the starch digestibility were evaluated. The pressure-cooked and convection oven-cooked samples showed high levels of both total reducing sugars (TRS) and soluble reducing sugars (SRS). Among the samples, white pulp sweet potatoes showed the highest starch contents. When cooked by microwave oven without adding water the roots had higher contents of resistant starch (RS). The results demonstrate deep transformations in the carbohydrate profile after cooking, with increase in maltose levels and consequent reduction in starch levels.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The COVID-19 death predictions are helpful for the formulation of public policies, allowing the use of more effective social isolation strategies with less economic and social impact. This article evaluates a wide range of forecasting methods to identify the best models for predicting cumulative and daily deaths caused by COVID-19 in Brazil, considering a forecast for a seven-day horizon. With the seven-day horizon, the predictions have more accuracy. The dataset is from Oxford Covid-19 Government Response Tracker. The jackknife resampling technique was implemented, thus providing an accurate estimate for evaluating the predictive capacity of the models. Each model was fitted with 266 jackknife samples considering 30-day training bases. The comparison between predictions was made using the average results, considering R2, MAPE, RMSE, and MAE. Models from different classes were adopted: 1 ETS, 4 ARIMA, 18 regression models, and 7 machine learning algorithms. The cumulative death models produce better results than daily deaths, as the cumulative death models are less influenced by time series components: cycle and seasonality. The best results for predicting daily deaths were attained by the Ridge regression method. The best results for predicting cumulative deaths were obtained by the Cubist regression method.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Using a local atmospheric electric field sensor network (Field Mill), an electromagnetic link model was proposed considering a free space electric field and a theoretical electric field calculated from an atmospheric discharge. With this, it was possible to compare the theoretical value of this electric field with the experimental value of the local atmospheric electric field (estimated by the Field Mill sensor network). The results are initially analyzed considering wavelengths in the EHF spectrum (λ ~ 10-5m) and the VLF spectrum (λ ~ 104m). As assumed before, admitting that the lightning channel acts as an isotropic irradiator and a Field Mill sensor acts as a receiving antenna for the spectrum emitted by the lightning, a irradiated power model of the electromagnetic waves reaching the Field Mill sensor, according to the ITU-R P.873.4 standard, was calculated, thus allowing a correlation with a satellite radio link, in which the Field Mill sensor acts as a ground receiving antenna and the main channel of the lightning strikes acts as a transmitting antenna. Also, a model of the power irradiated by each lightning discharge, recorded by the Field Mill sensor network, was proposed, and the Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power - EIRP was calculated for different values of effective electric field (Eef) and then compared with the model of the power irradiated by the antenna (lightning). This makes it possible to do an analysis and determine if the lightning discharge can be approximated to an isotropically irradiated antenna model.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Rural electrification is a critical issue in many countries. In Brazil, through the Federal Government’s Light for All Program, universal access to electricity in rural areas was partially made possible, benefiting approximately 16 million people by 2018. In remote areas where conventional grid electrification is impossible due to technical, geographical, and environmental obstacles, electrification by stand-alone photovoltaic systems is an attractive alternative. However, in practice, this solution is challenging and, if it is exhaustively not researched, it may become unfeasible. Therefore, this article reports the lessons learned from real experience with 23 prototypes installation of stand-alone photovoltaic systems with energy storage systems in the remote region of the Pantanal Sul-Mato-Grossense in Brazil, the major flooded surface in the world. It makes electrification a challenge that requires rigorous planning stages to ensure the lowest cost of future maintenance and meet quality performance indices. Recommendations and lessons learned based on experiences and field data are presented to improve the universalization of electrification in remote regions. Finally, opportunities for research and improvements in isolated PV systems are highlighted.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract DNA methylation and Histone are the main constituents to oversee the stable maintenance of cellular phenotypes. Any abnormalities in these components could cause cancer development and, therefore, must be potentially diagnostic. The Epigenomics research field is the study of epigenetic modification which involves gene expression control for better understanding of human biology. The Epigenomics applications are considered quite complex Big Data workflow applications which represent the data processing pipeline for automating the innumerable genome sequencing computation. The infrastructure of high-performance computing imparts heterogeneous computing resources for deploying such complex applications. Scheduling of workflow applications in the complex heterogeneous computing resources is considered an NP-complete problem; therefore, it requires an efficient scheduling approach. In this research work, an efficient list-based scheduling algorithm is proposed which efficiently minimizes the running time (makespan) of the Epigenomics application. In order to identify whether clustering and entry task duplication techniques improve the performance of the proposed algorithm, four versions of the algorithm such as list-based scheduling with clustering and duplication (LS-C-D), list-based scheduling with clustering and without duplication (LS-C-WD), list-based scheduling without clustering and with duplication (LS-WC-D), and list-based scheduling without clustering and without duplication (LS-WC-WD) has experimented. The experimental results prove that LS-WC-D is the best choice for scheduling Epigenomics applications. Further, the comparison of LS-WC-D and state-of-the-art algorithms also proves its significance.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The optimization of microgrids present challenges such as managing distributed energy resources (DERs) and the high reliance on intermittent generation such as PV and wind turbines, which present an aleatory behavior. The most popular techniques to deal with the uncertainties are stochastic optimization, which comes with a high computational burden, and adaptive robust optimization (ARO), which is often criticized for the conservativeness of its solutions. In response to these drawbacks, this work proposes a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model using a data-driven robust optimization approach (DDRO) solved by a two-stage decomposition using the column-and-constraint generation algorithm (C&CG). The DDRO model uses historic data to create the bounds of its uncertainty set, eliminating the conservativeness created by the arbitrary definition of the uncertainty set that is seen in ARO while maintaining a low computational burden. The DDRO model applied was not previously utilized in MGs, only in bulk power systems. A benchmark MG system was simulated for a 24-hour period without uncertainties, with uncertainties using ARO (15% uncertainty budget) and with uncertainties and DDRO. The operational costs without uncertainty were $124,600,60, while the ARO approach rose those costs by 32.5% ($ 165,137.18). Finally, the DDRO approach managed to keep the costs in $ 126,934.54, a mere 1.8% increase from the base case without uncertainty. All simulations were performed in less than 1 minute. The results confirm a) the advantages of bounding the uncertainty set with historical data instead of an arbitrary definition of bounds and b) the fast-converging times of DDRO.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In this paper, a novel MPC controller for Wind turbine system (WTS) is proposed to control the turbine actuation system using intelligent fuzzy logic. The main limitation of wind turbine system is power regulation and frequent transient operation which defines the WTS as unstable among other renewable energy sources. The proposed controller defines the WTS to operate in nominal conditions with high improved performance during capture of wind energy system which maintains the load safe and operate-able to all condition. The controller proposed with the small actuator that defines with WTS will tackle losses associated during operation and rotation of WTS. The complete WTS with actuator model and fuzzy control based MPC controller designed in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. The simulation outcomes suggest that a better transient response and high energy delivery obtained during the usage of proposed controller and further reduces ripples, further the proposed work tested with various operating ranges in domestic loads holds better results compare to conventional one.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This article proposes a comparative analysis between public and regulatory policies for implementing microgeneration and mini generation in Brazilian and German markets. The research was developed based on scientific texts and legal orders. Distributed microgeneration and mini generation are becoming a reality in Brazil. The current regulatory framework for distributed generation, effective from January 2022, promises to update the legislation and promote renewable energy. Since Brazilian legislation is still in its infancy, it is essential to compare it with other places where laws and regulations have already undergone several changes so we can learn from its mistakes and successes.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract A brain tumour is determined to be abnormal cell development on the brain walls and inside the skull. A malignant variation is a dangerous form of cancer with an increased mortality rate. Analyzing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) through deep learning models is the most prevalent and accurate method of early cancer detection. A novel hybrid model is proposed with the VGG16 convolution neural network (CNN) and Neural Autoregressive Distribution Estimation (NADE). The experiment was conducted on 3064 MRI brain tumour images grouped into three categories. The T1 weighted contrast-enhanced MRI images were classified using the hybrid VGG16-NADE model and compared with other methods. The results prove that the proposed hybrid VGG16-NADEmodel outperforms the rest in terms of classification accuracy, specificity, sensitivity and F1 score. The prediction accuracy of the proposed hybrid VGG16-NADE is 96.01%, precision 95.72%, recall 95.64%, F-measure 95.68%, Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) 0.91, error rate 0.075, and the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) 0.3564. The numerical outcomes are comparatively higher than those from other approaches and it is evaluated with existing approaches like the hybrid CNN and NADE, CNN, CNN- kernel Extreme Learning Machines (KELM), deep CNN-data augmentation, and CNN- Genetic Algorithm (GA). Other metrics like the p-value, MCC, error rate and ROC are also evaluated. The experimental outcomes show that the hybrid VGG16-NADE classifier model outperforms other approaches.

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Abstract The benefits of complementarity between renewable energy sources have been presented as having a positive impact, but it has been neglected in generation expansion planning studies. In this paper the complementarity between renewable energy sources and regions of Brazil is characterized and the correlation coefficients are analyzed. A methodology is also proposed to optimize the complementarity between the sources, reducing the energy storage requirements. The methodology is applied to the Brazilian case to meet the projected demand for 2050 with a 100% renewable system and the complementarity is analyzed. The characterization of the data allowed us to propose five solar regions, four wind regions, three hydro regions and a region to represent the biomass. It was possible to find complementarity (negative correlation) of: 0.97 between hydro regions; 0.86 between wind and hydro regions and; 0.96 between biomass and hydro. The proposed methodology allowed us to know which regions and their respective technologies best benefit the electrical system, being the North for solar and the Northeast for wind. Finally, it was possible to reduce the demand for water storage with sources and regions that complement the seasonal hydro drought period.

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Abstract The present work describes synthesis and characterization of new modified Poly (vinyl chloride) polymer containing amino and mercapto - derivatives as pendent groups in the repeating units. This is performed via reacting of heterocyclic compound contain thiol and amine groups with PVC in tetrahydrofuran as solvent. The structure of modified PVC polymer was characterized by IR and 1H-NMR. The Photostability of modified PVC polymer was investigated under irradiation with ultra violet radiation from mercury vapor lamp 150 watt. The photostability effects of this heterocyclic compound depends on the basicity of carbonyl, alkene and hydroxyl indexes. The obtained results showed that the photostability of modified PVC polymer was decreased with increasing of irradiation time and with elevation of reaction temperature as well as in case of increasing of period of illumination.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In 2001, 150 tons of tannery waste was incorporated in the soil as a source of organic matter on the Monte Alegre Farm. This waste, which originates from the tannery industry and contains high chromium concentrations, was irregularly used as a soil fertilizer by farmers to produce mangoes, sugarcane, coffee, oranges, corn and lemons, contaminating the soils. This irregular application of tannery waste also contaminated stream sediment and bioaccumulated in some aquatic macroinvertebrate. The present study aims to collect current information about the aquatic macroinvertebrate community to make a comparison between chromium contamination in the Monte Alegre stream sediment with a study carried out in 2007 in the same place. The aquatic macroinvertebrate community was collected from April to September 2017 using an Ekman-Birge grab at two sampling points: one point at the forested area (Upstream Point) and another near the place of the contaminated soil (Downstream Point). Sediment samples were collected to analyze chromium concentration. The current concentration of chromium in the downstream point (impacted area) was higher than that obtained in 2007. The community metrics confirm that the taxonomic structure and diversity of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community to the Monte Alegre stream were affected by chromium. The results suggest that the environmental impact was maintained after ten years.

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Abstract Recently, the research is towards the development of high static gain DC-DC converters suitable for renewable energy applications. The high voltage gain can be achieved using isolated and non-isolated configurations of the converter. The magnetically coupled inductor based isolated DC-DC converter structures can have improved voltage gain, but they need large size inductors which may lead to increased cost. Thus, the modified structures of non-isolated conventional boost, CUK, and SEPIC topologies with inclusion of additional controlled and uncontrolled switches along with large number of passive components are employed to achieve the improved voltage gain. However, it leads to increased complexity and control. Hence, the researchers concentrated on development of hybrid non-isolated DC-DC converter topologies capable of achieving enhanced static voltage gain, without adding extra controlled switches and passive elements. In this paper, a hybrid non-isolated single-switch DC-DC converter structure is proposed for achieving high voltage gain than that of traditional non-isolated topologies. The proposed hybrid structure operating in continuous inductor current mode is obtained by connecting the conventional boost and the modified CUK converters in parallel. The power switch and the diodes have low voltage-current stress. The operation of the proposed hybrid topology during various modes is explored. The mathematical modeling of the proposed converter is also provided. The MATLAB / SIMULINK study of the suggested hybrid converter has been implemented. The digital simulation study proves the feasibility of the proposed hybrid converter concept and its steady-state behavior.

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Abstract Lipids extracted from microalgae for biofuel production have drawn the attention of researchers. Various methods for quantification of neutral lipids, such as solvent extraction or gravimetric, require a large volume of sample and are time-consuming. In this work, Nile Red was employed to evaluate the lipid content in microalgae Scenedesmus sp. through 2D fluorescence spectroscopy using chemometric modeling with a selection of wavelength pairs reducing the variable numbers. Cultivation of microalgae for 10 days was performed. Samples were taken starting after the 5th day of cultivation. Microalgae samples were dried using an oven with tangential airflow and the conventional Bligh and Dyer method for lipid extraction was employed. Before the measurement of fluorescence, the samples were diluted in ethanol at 40°C for 10 minutes, and then Nile Red solution (10 µg/mL ethanol) was added. The results of lipid quantification using the proposed technique achieved mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) lower than 5% and correlation coefficients around 0.99 in the test phase. Linear models using four excitation-emission pairs of fluorescence were fitted and were selected based on Pure Spectral Chemometric Modelling (PSCM). The method for lipid quantification using predictive linear models and 2D fluorescence proved to be robust and fast (requiring less than 30 min) compared to the conventional gravimetric method (which takes at least 5 hours) to obtain comparable results.

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Abstract The existing practice for Breast Cancer (BC) characterization includes histopathological analysis, which is tedious and time-consuming due to massive data analysis. Further, such techniques are subjected to inter-and intra-observer variability due to the non-availability of skilled pathologists, particularly in low resource settings. Thus, we propose a multi-feature classification technique for risk stratification of BC in Histopathology Images (HI) using machine learning strategies and a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) based deep learning approach. Experiments are performed on a publicly available HI database from which a total of 658 image features are extracted, while 192 relevant features are obtained after feature selection using genetic algorithm. The highest accuracy of 99.85% using 192 features under the 5-fold data division protocol is obtained with the LSTM approach. The proposed framework for analyzing HI using multiple grayscale and color features showed promising results and can be an effective tool in the histopathology laboratory.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The insertion of new distributed energy resources, such as distributed generation (DG), energy storage systems (ESS), demand response (DR), and microgrids (MG), is emerging, bringing new challenges to the current distribution network. In this regard, the active distribution networks (I) with multi-microgrids concept appears. The present paper proposes a hierarchical (master-slave problem) computational model to achieve optimal coordinated operation of multi-microgrids connected to an I. Day-ahead operation planning of an I was formulated as a multiperiod non-linear optimal power flow model, resulting in a non-linear optimization problem, additionally, the day-ahead operation planning of MGs was formulated as a multiperiod linearized optimal power flow resulting in a mixed-integer linear optimization problem. Numerical results on four different test-system microgrids connected to a 359-nodes ADNs test-system belonging to a Brazilian distribution company show the effectiveness of the proposed model and solution strategy. Three cases have been tested: with a maximum load-shedding restriction, without this restriction, and considering insertion of DG. Besides, the hierarchical model can evaluate how much losses and load shedding take effect without integrated operation and expansion planning of emerging distributed networks. This study showed the importance of analyzing the systemic impact of integrating multi-MGs and I synergistic operation interactions, resulting in improvements in the voltage quality levels, operation costs, and power losses. The results showed that, including DG in the system, the costs were reduced by 13,48% compared to the case base.

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Abstract Human posture estimation is the basis of many computer vision tasks, such as motion recognition, violence detection and behavior understanding. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the estimation algorithm of human motion posture (HMP). To address the problem of poor estimation effect of traditional HMP estimation algorithm, in this paper, an estimation algorithm for HMP using multi-labeling transfer learning is proposed. First, the original human motion image is labeled by using the multi-label transfer learning, the HMP features are extracted, and the original image classification is completed. Second, a regulator is constructed based on the classification results of the original image, and the regulator is used to adjust the estimation results of HMP based on a convolutional neural networks. Finally, the posture compensation function is used to compensate for the error part to realize the estimation of HMP. In the experiment, the Human3.6m data set and MPII data set were used as the basis for testing. The results show that the proposed algorithm has high correct recognition rate of HMP. The similarity between the posture estimation results, and the target image is 92%-97%. The accuracy of posture estimation is 98.1%. The proposed algorithm can be widely used in many fields, such as human-computer interaction, recognition authentication and intelligent monitoring.

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Abstract The decrease in the possibilities of increasing the arable agricultural areas in the world and the continuous increase in the population have led those who are engaged in plant production to seek ways to make maximum use of the existing agricultural areas. One of these ways is mixed sowing systems. It is very difficult to sow species with different grain sizes in mixtures. Special sowing machines are needed for this aim. Because of this reason, the article aims to be a guide for artificial intelligence capable of mixed sowing in forage crops. In the research, it is found that there are some differences between YOLOv4-tiny and Y0L0v4 models as Precision, Recall, F1-score, TP, FP, FN scores. For the YOLOv4-tiny model, these scores were found as 0.99, 1.00, 0.99, 90, 1, 0, respectively and the scores for the Y0L0v4 model were 1.00, 1.00, 1.00, 90, 0, 0. According to the YOLOv4-tiny and YOLOv4 tests in the lab, suggesting that the YOLOv4-tiny is faster, and the YOLOv4 is more reliable in terms of all these factors combined. This research establishes a standard for real-time recognition of forage crops based on current technology at NVIDIA Jetson TX2 due to its high performance and low power consumption and a high-performance computer with CUDA support.

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Abstract Gliomas comprise the vast majority of all malignant brain tumors. Low-grade glioma patients with combined whole-arm losses of 1p and 19q chromosomes were shown to have significantly better overall survival rates compared to non-deleted patients. This work evaluates several approaches for assessment of 1p/19q status from T2-weighted magnetic resonance images, using radiomics and machine learning. Experiments were performed using images from a public database (102 codeleted, 57 non-deleted). We experimented with sets of 68 and 100 radiomic features, and with several classifiers, including support vector machine, k-nearest neighbors, stochastic gradient descent, logistic regression, decision tree, Gaussian naive Bayes, and linear discriminant analysis. We also experimented with several ensemble-based methods, including four boosting-based classifiers, random forest, extra-trees, and bagging. The performance of these methods was compared using various metrics. Our best results were achieved using a bagging ensemble estimator based on the decision tree classifier, using only texture-based radiomics features. Compared to other works that used the same database, this approach provided higher sensitivity. It also achieved higher sensitivity than that provided by neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists analyzing the same images. We also show that including radiomic features associated with first order statistics and shape does not improve the performance of the classifiers, and in many cases worsens it. The molecular assessment of brain tumors through biopsies is an invasive procedure, and is subject to sampling errors. Therefore, the techniques presented in this work have strong potential for aiding in better clinical, surgical, and therapeutic decision-making.

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Abstract This paper presents the proposition of a set of technical and managerial actions recommended for the management of energy in industry. Economic, environmental, political and social aspects have been putting pressure on the whole society for a more conscious and efficient use and consumption of energy in its diverse forms. Energy-intensive industries show a high energy consumption, they work with processes in severe temperature conditions, residual dissipation of heat and flux of not used residues, always being subject to great environment risks. These large-sized companies offer great opportunities for making energy more efficient, use of co-generation and various other possibilities for a better management and improvement of energetic performance. The research is characterized as quali-quantitative, exploratory and descriptive, presenting a statistical analysis for the questionnaire answers. The energy management practices refer to procedures used for dealing with energetic issues. In function of the interdisciplinary aspect of energy management in the industry, the management practices can be better understood with technical and managerial continuous or frequent actions. A Delphi study for verification of the validity of the proposed technical and managerial actions was carried out together with academia and industry specialists. The results show a favorable positioning, confirmed by a reliability rate among suitable evaluators (IRR - Inter Rater Reliability). The set of technical and managerial actions is made up of reference elements for creation, organization and conduction of an energy management system in the industry.

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Abstract This paper aims to improve the quality of reconstructed visual stimuli and reduce the computational complexity of the visual stimuli reconstruction processes in the form of functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) profiles. The preceding work envisions the non-cognitive contents of brain activity vain to integrate visual data of diverse hierarchical levels. Existing approaches such as Deep Canonically Correlated Auto Encoder detect the significant challenges of reconstructing visual stimuli from brain activity: fMRI noise, large dimensionality of a limited number of data instances, and complex structure of visual stimuli. In this activity, we will also analyze the scope for utilizing the spatiotemporal data to resolve the neural correlates of visual stimulus representations and reconstruct the resembling visual stimuli. The purpose of this work is to manipulate those suffering from developmental disabilities. A novel Siamese conditional Generative Adversarial Network (ScGAN) approach is proposed to resolve these significant issues. The key features of ScGAN are as follows: 1. Siamese Neural Network (SNN) is a dimensionality reduction approach that takes as visual stimulus information alloy component and its goals to discover each of them effectively. It shows the critical component of visual stimuli. 2. In a conditional Generative Adversarial Network, the labels portrayan expansion to a latent variable to better generate and discriminate visual stimuli. Experiments on four fMRI datasets prove that our technique can reconstruct visual stimuli precisely. The performance metrics are evaluated by Mean Squared Error (MSE), Accuracy, Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC), Losses, Structural Similarity Index (SSIM), Computational Time, etc. It proves that the proposed method yields better outcomes in terms of accuracy.

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Abstract The presented development is an intelligent diagnostic system for transformers that studied machine learning techniques to determine the operational status of these transformers. The study of these techniques is initiated by observing the quantities that define the operational behavior of large transformers, aiming to identify anomalies in their operation from data from sensors that equipment it in the functioning environment. This large power transformer has a theoretical service life of above 20 years and a low failure rate. Thus, obtaining failure values, which have their evolution monitored for large transformers, is almost nil. Therefore, a supervised machine training methodology to diagnose these cases is practically unfeasible. The study carried out with several traditional intelligent techniques can verify this. Several supervised methods (Closest Neighbor K-th Neighbor, Support Vector Machine, Radial Base Function, Decision Trees, Random Forest, Neural Network, AdaBoost, Gaussian Naive Bayes, and Quadratic Discriminant Analysis) were studied.

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Abstract A HA_Cart_AdaBoost model is proposed to clean the data in drinking-water-quality data. First, the data that do not follow the normal distribution are regarded as outliers and eliminated. Next, the optimal control theory of nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) is introduced into the cart decision tree, and the cart decision with the specified depth is used. As a weak classifier of AdaBoost, the tree uses the HA_Cart_AdaBoost model to compensate for the eliminated data, then it fits and predicts the missing values of the data stream, realizes the cleaning of drinking-water-quality data, and finally uses the big data Hadoop architecture for real-time storage and analysing streaming data. The experimental results show that compared with the most advanced data cleaning methods, after the optimal control theory of nonlinear PDEs is introduced into the cart decision tree, the stability and accuracy of the HA_Cart_AdaBoost model for water quality data cleaning are greatly improved. Taking pH as an example, the HA_Cart_AdaBoost model shows a minimum improvement of 2.25% and a maximum improvement of 53.33% in terms of RMSE, and a minimum improvement of 13.51% and a maximum improvement of 78.08% in terms of MAE.

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Abstract Dengue is a viral disease whose number of cases has increased in Brazil. This study aimed to characterize the spatio-temporal distribution patterns of the reported dengue infection cases in the state of Alagoas (AL), Northeastern Brazil (NEB). The data of the officially reported dengue cases from 2000 to 2015 was retrieved from the State Health Secretariat of Alagoas (SESAL), which captures national demographic and health data from the System for the Reporting of Notifiable Conditions (SINAN). After applying the Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) function, maps were generated based on the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation method. By using the clusters analysis (CA) technique, three homogeneous groups of dengue in AL were determined. Next, the LN (Lognormal), GUM (Gumbel) and GEV (Generalized Extreme Value) probability distributions were applied to monthly model dengue case data in AL, with the LN continuous probability distribution standing out. Maceió and Arapiraca have a higher number of dengue cases than other cities, being the main reason for their interpretation as separate groups. The coefficients of determination (R2) of dengue cases analysis as a function of month of each year for the studied years were low (between 0.03 and 0.63) and many regression slopes were not significant. Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) between dengue and the Human Development Index (HDI) of LA was considered moderate (0.53) and the correlation between dengue and demographic density was high (0.76). The importance of constant monitoring and assistance for these areas is reinforced.

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Abstract As high-voltage circuit breakers (HVCBs) are responsible for switching off the load in the event of anomalies, they suffer various wear and tear, both on their main contacts and on the other actuation mechanisms. Not only load maneuvers but also weather conditions can bring factors that contribute to deterioration and, consequently, contribute to failures of this component that is so important for energy supply. Both failures and maintenance shutdowns generate costs for substations, something that could be minimized if there was monitoring of the condition of the HVCBs. This paper shows a methodology to analyze the vibration signal of HVCB in order to identify and quantify contact failures. The proposed methodology is verified through an experimental setup. The results show that it is possible not only to identify the fault but also to assess its intensity using vibration analysis.

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Abstract Sharing digital images on social media has become very common these days. People must check for authenticity to share images on social media websites. The shared image may be forged intentionally or unintentionally and can defame someone's reputation, leading to severe events, such as public riots. Thus, authentication of digital images which are posted on social media websites is of paramount importance. Our social media should be intelligent enough to check on these forged images such that no false information spreads around society. Many image forgery detection algorithms have been used by big social groups based on JPEG compression artifacts, but these may not work well in the presence of anti-forensics. JPEG compression is the most widely used standard in social media these days. Two important artifacts, quantization and blocking artifacts, are being exploited by various experts for forensic analysis. JPEG anti-forensic techniques clear away these artifacts to fool forensic detectors. This work presents a novel technique derived from the inter-block interdependence of DCT coefficients for ferreting out JPEG-blocking artifacts in the presence of anti-forensics. In the case of JPEG images, the cropping operation shifts the blocking artifacts within the block, changing the inter-block interdependence. We propose to take advantage of this change to ferret out the blockiness in an image that will help the forensic analyst detect forgery. The proposed method can detect blocking artifacts even if anti-forensic operations are applied and take the intelligence of social media to a step up. A set of different and reproducible experiments have been conducted over a large set of images. It has been observed that the proposed detector outperformed the existing ones in ferreting out blocking artifacts in altered (anti-forensically) JPEG images.

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Abstract Internet of Things (IoT) can be considered as one of the emergent research topics, which linked several sensor enabled devices. Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) remains a key enabling technology for IoT environment due to their possibility in placing different types of essential smart city applications, like healthcare, smart cities, environment monitoring, etc. At the same time, effectual utilization of energy is required for the design of energy-efficient data transmission strategy in the IoT environment. In this view, this study develops a novel multi-objective sand piper optimization based clustering with multi-hop routing (MOSPO-CMR) technique to IoT assisted WSN. The proposed MOSPO-CMR technique intends to effectively choose cluster heads (CHs) and derive optimal routes to BS. The MOSPO-CMR technique initially performs cluster construction process by the election of CHs using three variables namely Residual energy (RES), distance to BS (DIST), and Node Degree (NDEG). Besides, the MOSPO-CMR technique derives an objective function involving two variables such as RES and DIST to determine optimal routes to destination. In order to demonstrate the enhanced outcomes of the MOSPO-CMR approach, a series of simulations were carried out and the outcomes highlighted the enhanced outcomes of the MOSPO-CMR technique over the other recent approaches.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The image of an athlete's ankle joint injury can help to check whether the athlete's ankle joint is damaged, and plays a very important role in clinical diagnosis. To address the problem of poor segmentation effect of traditional athletes' ankle injury image segmentation algorithm, an ankle injury image segmentation algorithm based on residual double attention U-Net model is proposed. First, the region of interest is extracted from the original ankle injury image. After translation, rotation and turnover, the image data is expanded. Second, the residual structure is used to adjust the gradient propagation and residual feedback of the segmentation framework, extract the attribute information in the region of interest, and combine the two to retain more image features. Finally, combined with the double attention module to improve the weight ratio of image features, the athlete ankle injury image segmentation is realized in the image segmentation framework based on residual double attention U-Net model. The results demonstrate that the maximum values of DSC, ASSD, PM, and CR for the proposed algorithm are 0.93, 0.1, 0.96, and 0.95, respectively, and the F1 score is 95.7%, indicating that the segmentation effect of this algorithm is closer to the theoretical segmentation effect, and higher precision in segmentation, and the segmented image has a high degree of similarity to the original image, resulting in excellent segmentation performance.

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Abstract Precise cost estimation is the first and crucial step for decision-makers at the planning stage of product development. Due to the unavailability of knowledge and the complex nature of manufacturing processes, materials, and product designs, the selection of suitable alternatives based on estimated cost has become more challenging. The purpose of this paper is to present the development of a knowledge-based system (KBS) for assisting decision-makers in identifying suitable alternatives for precise cost estimation in a mistake-proof environment. The system architecture is comprised of three layers namely the database layer, application layer, and end-user layer, and developed using knowledge-based engineering, set-based concurrent engineering, and poke-yoke as lean enabling approaches. Based on the captured knowledge through industrial investigation and experimentation, a real-time system application was developed using C# language and validated using a real case study in the foundry industry using sand casting as the manufacturing process. It ensured the validity of the developed system. KBS provides an extensive tool to decision-makers for accurate decision-making at the design stage using cost and other associated values. Further, it facilitates the practitioners of every business sector to capture, save, and use the identified knowledge for problem-solving in the future.

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Abstract Global public has been threatened by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic which led to nearly 15 million deaths around the world. People with complex and chronic diseases usually have more severe COVID-19 symptoms than the general population. Mounting evidence indicates individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have worse COVID-19 outcomes yet the underlying mechanism still needs to be explored. The aim of our study is to reveal in silico evidence for the molecular mechanisms shared by COVID-19, CAD and RA pathogenesis which may aggravate the COVID-19 disease severity. Public datasets (GSE164805 and GSE23561) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and analyzed for differential expression analysis (DEG). Identified differential expressed genes (DEGs) were further analyzed to find common DEGs, common pathways, hub genes, transcription factors (TFs) and microRNAs (miRNAs). Our study identified common hub genes, miRNAs, TFs and shared mechanisms in both mild and severe COVID-19-CAD patients and mild and severe COVID-19-RA patients. We also uncovered that mild and severe forms of COVID-19 differ in potential biomarkers, mechanisms, miRNAs and TFs in both CAD and RA patients. Our study is the first study investigating the potential shared mechanisms, biomarkers, TFs and miRNAs between COVID-19 and CAD patients and COVID-19 and RA patients. Our results could shed on light to the patient management strategies with CAD with COVID-19 and patients with RA with COVID-19 based on the severity of the COVID-19 disease.

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Abstract This study aims to analyze the scientific production of the journal Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology (BABT) from 2017 to 2020, in order to investigate whether the stratification assigned by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) is consistent with the proposed method for classifying journals on Qualis 2017-2020. To this end, a mapping analysis of articles published in the years 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, located through the BABT journal website on the SciELO platform, available in Open Access format, was carried out. The results show that 526 articles were published in the period, adding up to 2525 authorships, with 711 authors being professors of Stricto Sensu Graduate Programs recognized by CAPES, of which, excluding redundancies, 577 linkages were obtained, in the three colleges, in eight of the nine major areas (88.88%) and in 33 of the 49 CAPES areas (67.34%). It is concluded that the journal comprises a very broad target audience and the A4 stratum in which the BABT was classified on Qualis 2017-2020 is consistent with the method proposed by the documents published by CAPES.

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Abstract Brain tumors (BTs) are a serious medical condition that can have significant impacts on individuals. These tumors typically originate in various parts of the brain and can be detected using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which has become an essential tool for medical research. However, manual analysis of MRI images for BT segmentation is a time-consuming and error-prone process. To address this challenge, automated methods based on deep learning algorithms have been developed for fast and accurate detection of anomalous brain regions. In this article, we propose a novel approach called Equilibrium Optimizer Algorithm with Deep Learning-based Brain Tumor Segmentation and Classification (EOADL-BTSC) for brain tumor segmentation and classification using MRI images. Our method uses enhancement of contrast and skull stripping to preprocess the images, followed by an attention-inception-based UNet model for segmentation, a capsule network (CapsNet) model for feature extraction, and a cascaded recurrent neural network (CRNN) for classification. To optimize the performance of our proposed method, we use the Equilibrium Optimizer Algorithm (EOA) to fine-tune the hyperparameters of the UNet model. We evaluate the performance of our approach on a benchmark database and compare it with other recent approaches. Our experimental results demonstrate that the EOADL-BTSC methodology outperforms the other approaches in terms of several performance measures. In summary, the proposed DL-BTSC methodology provides a promising solution for automated brain tumor segmentation and classification using MRI images. It has the potential to assist medical professionals in accurate and fast detection of brain tumors, leading to better medical analysis and treatment planning. Our proposed method achieves the maximum accu_y, sens_y, and spec_y values of 99.15% 98.78%, and 99.15% respectively. They also note that the proposed approach requires fewer parameters and has a quicker segmentation time than previous approaches.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Anthropic activities have been causing serious impacts in aquatic environments, deteriorating the quality of the waters. Superficial springs with excess of nutrients, rich in compounds of phosphor and nitrogen, may induce blooms of algae and cyanobacteria, hard to be removed in the treatment of water. Such microscopic particles, e.g. Microcystis spp., are named biocolloids. This work propose to apply the mathematical modelling by the extended colloidal XDLVO theory (Extended Derjarguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek) for coagulation and gravel upflow filtration (GUF) and sand downflow rapid filtration (SDRF) to the technology of double filtration applied to study water containing Microcystis spp. The XDLVO theory has been shown to be efficient at evaluating the behavior of the colloidal particles as a function of the separation distance, making apparent how the intermolecular and surface forces act: acid-base interaction (AB), Lifshitz-Vander Walls (vdW), double electric layer (DEL) and Born repulsion forces. Such forces that act in this colloidal system formed by Microcystis spp. were analyzed in terms of their mutual interaction and their interaction with porous environments in double filtration at the stable thermodynamic situations (pre-coagulation) and at unstabilized by the chemical coagulation. The raw water energetic barrier of repulsion and after the sand downflow rapid filtration gave an average decreasing of about 90% in absolute values.

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Abstract The recognizing and categorizing of a glioma brain tumor is a challenging task in the medical domain, and earlier identification of malignancy is much essential in order to increase the patient lifespan. Medical image analysis research has been performed to aid in the detection of malignant brain tumors. To achieve high classification performance, extracted features must be both descriptive and discriminatory. Machine learning is crucial in categorization due to its flexibility and adaptability to different problems. We have proposed a clustered image and feature-supported classifier (CIFC) along with a deep convolutional neural network framework in order to classify the brain tumor image. The proposed model consists of various classifiers such as; (i) original and segmented image feature-supported classifiers; (ii) original and segmented image-supported classifiers and (iii) clustered image and feature-supported classifiers. The free and open-access image dataset BRATS 2021 is used to train and test the proposed system framework for the tumor detection. The CFIC outperforms almost every classifier that has been proposed thus far. The performance metric outcome of the proposed system is 99.76% of sensitivity, 98.04% of specificity and 99.87% of accuracy significantly. Hence, the proposed system outcome performs well in terms of tumor detection when compared with other existing techniques.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The segmentation of athlete knee joint injury images can provide doctors with information about the location and extent of the athlete knee joint injury. Therefore, it is significant to segment the images of athlete knee joint injury. However, the traditional image segmentation method of athlete knee injury has the problems of low accuracy of mask region extraction, completion time of extraction and high error rate of segmentation. In the paper, we propose image segmentation method for athlete knee joint injury using the transformer model by the medical Internet of Things (MIoT). First, the MIoT was used as a way to obtain images of knee joint injury of athletes, and the images of knee joint injury of athletes were derived using the MIoT. Second, the exported image is input into the shadow expansion layer of the transformer model, which performs shadow expansion on the athlete knee joint injury image to obtain its mask region, and then the image is input into the patch embedding layer. Finally, after the patch embedding layer extracts the mask patch of the athlete knee joint injury image, the mask patch is input into the transformer block for down-sampling and up-sampling processing, and then the athlete knee joint injury image segmentation result is output using the end backpropagation layer. The results show that the proposed method has a low error rate in extracting the mask region from the knee joint injury image of athletes, and a short completion time for extracting the mask region, the most detailed and comprehensive segmented athlete knee joint injury image, the maximum error rate of image segmentation is only 6.8%, and the maximum value of segmentation time is only 3.96s. It has important research value in the field of athlete knee joint injury diagnosis.

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Abstract Shielded substations with SF6 gas insulation (GIS) play a critical role in supplying power to urban areas, and it is crucial to quickly identify and isolate faults to restore system operation and meet supply demands. However, locating faults in such substations can involve extensive and time-consuming procedures, such as opening and closing hermetically sealed compartments containing SF6. This paper presents the development of an acoustic test bench that accurately replicates the dynamic characteristics of SF6 shielded substations. By utilizing the traveling wave technique, partial discharges occurring in high-voltage insulation can be detected and precisely located. The method employs various techniques, including the analysis of the arrival time of traveling waves at different points within the substation and triangulation methods. The use of traveling waves in partial discharge detection offers several advantages, such as precise fault location and non-interference with normal substation operations. Additionally, acoustic methods are highly sensitive to other sources of partial discharges, such as moving particles and fluctuating potential discharges. The results demonstrate that the combination of the acoustic test bench and the disturbance localization technique presents an innovative approach to fault location studies in GIS. The acoustic test bench enables controlled simulation of failure conditions, providing accurate data on the acoustic behavior of substations. Through the disturbance location technique, these data can be analyzed and interpreted to pinpoint the exact fault location. This integrated approach enhances the efficiency of the troubleshooting process and reduces the time required to repair GIS.

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Abstract The motivation of this work is to investigate two technological AI paths, evaluate the performance, and discuss the results. Using a covid-19 chest X-ray images databank, we address the two distinct experiments to this problem: (1) an investigation of feature extraction and classification using machine learning algorithms and (2) an approach based on transfer learning used in state-of-the-art applications. For the implementation of our proposal (1), an integrated framework consisting of 25 algorithms with different characteristics was developed to extract features from chest X-ray images. Following this path, we seek to focus on the spatial spectral signatures of shape, texture, local and global statistical quantities. The extraction of features based on information in Fourier and wavelet space-frequency domain was also implemented as part of the framework. On the other hand, several transfer learning CNN’s were also used to evaluate performance and to compere to the first technological path results. Furthermore, the performance of other results reported by various other works are provided. The comparative performance evaluation demonstrated that the two concepts for a computational intelligence tool can produce very good results even working in high-dimensional vector spaces.

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Abstract Orally disintegrating films (ODFs) were prepared from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC E6 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5%), plasticizers ((glycerin (Gly), propylene glycol (PP), or polyethylene glycol (PEG)), and isosorbide dinitrate using the solvent casting method. Design of experiments (DoE) was used considering the amount of film-forming agent (HPMC) and the nature of the plasticizers as independent variables and thickness, mechanical properties, disintegration time, and dissolution efficiency as dependent variables. The best formulation was selected based on the desirability function (fD). Color analysis was performed using CIE-Lab coordinates. DSC curves and XRPD diffractograms showed ISDN amorphization, probably due to complexation with polymers (HPMC E6 and HPβCD). The polymer (HPMC E6) and plasticizer played a critical role in the mechanical and optical properties of the films; however, these factors had no significant effect on the dissolution efficiency of ISDN. Principal component analysis revealed a more defined distinction of the ODFs according to their chromatic characteristics. ODFs prepared with Gly and PEG 400 were translucent, whereas the other films were transparent. The dissolution efficiency values of the ODFs (F1-9) were higher than those observed for the reference product (88.35(0.01%), indicating increased solubility of ISDN, probably due to complexation with polymers (HPMC E6 and HPβCD). The maximum value obtained for desirability function (fD) was 0.86, which corresponded to the use of 1.5% to 2.0% polymer (HPMC E6) and Gly or PP as plasticizers. The F5 formulation showed adequate thickness (85.00(6.38 (m), elongation at break (4.82(0.01%), adhesiveness (0.23(0.09 mJ), dissolution efficiency (95.97(0.01%), and high transparency.

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Abstract Spinal implants are commonly used in the treatment of spinal disorders and injuries. Spine surgery for interbody fusion using intervertebral cages has become a prescribed method to treat degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis. Interbody fusion cages restore disc height by replacing the degenerated disc. Cage design, the material and the surgical approach play significant roles in a successful clinical outcome. A cage implant provides stability for functional spinal units; however, this is accomplished with rods and plates that require additional penetration and space in vertebrae. Hence, stand-alone cage devices are being used, but the designs and their effectiveness are still investigational. This work aims at designing intervertebral cage models with a self-locking mechanism. Four prospective designs for the locking mechanism are proposed. The design is modeled using SOLIDWORKS®. The mechanical analysis was performed on the modeled implants using ANSYS. The material of the implant is titanium, based on its proven biomechanical properties. The dimensions of the cage implant were chosen to best suit the lumbar L4/5 Intervertebral Disc (IVD). Analysis of results indicates that the proposed designs with the locking mechanism withstand load and provide stability to functional spinal units. The modeled cage implants with the proposed locking mechanism show prospective results from mechanical analysis and proceed further for biomechanical testing.

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Abstract Industries play a very vital role in the developed nation. Proportional to the higher production capacity of these industries, there is a surge in the quantity of waste material being discharged. This waste material can be put to effective use; a considerable way is by creating a green composite that is long-lasting, and concocted by using natural fibers and environment-friendly materials as reinforcements. In the following study, an attempt is made to investigate the buckling characteristics of a thin geometrical plate of epoxy-based composite reinforced with Sugarcane fiber/ Fly-ash/ Carbon Nanotube. The investigative study was conducted numerically on the plate by applying axially compressive load. To procure an optimized result on the weight percentages of the composition of the fiber in the composite material, the DOE/optimization tool i.e. a mathematical and statistical technique known as the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used. Essential geometrical modeling and the appropriate boundary conditions for the buckling analysis were carried out using the Static Structural and Eigen Buckling standalone systems in the ANSYS software. The analytical tool, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was utilized to investigate the influential degree of reinforcement variables on buckling characteristics present in the composite. The results reveal that the critical buckling loads escalate for higher weight percentages for carbon nanotube and fly-ash reinforcements in the composite composition. The optimized parameters obtained can be incorporated to achieve improved critical buckling load and hence many synthetic composites were replaced thus enhancing the sustainability of the environment.

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Abstract The transposable elements are known by their ability to move and integrate into the genome of the host organism. They are classified in retrotransposons class I, which has, as intermediate of the transposition, the RNA and retrotransposons class II, which is composed of the DNA transposons, whose DNA migrates directly or is copied and inserted into the genome. The retrotransposable element Rex1 is a non-LTR retrotransposon found in several types of organisms. Many studies indicate that the Rex retrotransposons have the capacity to respond to environmental stress. The results found in this study corroborate the hypothesis that this retrotransposon possesses a response to environmental stress, since the chromosomal mapping, obtained through FISH, showed a higher number of markings on animals that were submitted to stress in 48h by the copper sulfate action. Furthermore, we can identify an increase in heterochromatic regions in the chromosomes. In the absolute quantification by Real-Time PCR, we found the largest numbers of Rex1 copies in the samples that were submitted to environmental stress by copper sulfate.

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Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate different pastures types on carbon footprint (CF). The cattle in the Piedmont zone, Cumaral, Meta, Colombia are principally Brahman, the pastures are formed with the tropical forage grasses Brachiaria decumbens for improved pastures (IP) and degraded pastures of B. brizantha (DP), also, various silvopastoral systems (SPSs) depending of planting trees on pasture at the same time and in the same space were evaluated. GHG emissions per kg of live weight (LW) were estimated to be reduced from 9.14, and 7.17 to 4.4 kgCO2eq.kgLW-1 in SPSs, and IP to DP, respectively. In all systems the largest GHG emission were enteric fermentation CH4, manure management N2O, feed animal management CO2. Soil C sequestration rates ranged from 2.46 to -1.72 tCO2.ha-1.yr-1 in DP to SPSs, respectively, IP account for -1.35tCO2eq.ha-1yr-1. CF were neutralized from 8.12 to -11.6 kg CO2eq.kg LW-1 in DP to IP. The beef production system with the lowest CF studied were that based on SPSs, mainly B. decumbens associated with Acacia mangium, accounting -60 kg CO2eq.kgLW-1. In our study, all other SPSs had a very large impact on negative CF, due to differences in C stored in biomass that would account for GHG neutralization of -15.3, -21.8, -24.31, -20.42 kg CO2eq.kgLW-1 in SPSs of B. decumbens + Gliricidia sepium, B. decumbens + Mangifera indica, B. decumbens + G. angustifolia and B. decumbens + citrus cinensis, respectively. It is possible to neutralize CF in beef cattle production through several SPSs in Piedmont’s case study.

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Abstract The aim of this study was to develop an adsorbent from coffee husk, residue from the coffee industry by different activation methods and to evaluate its application in the treatment of effluent containing synthetic Ponceau 4R dye. The activations were with phosphoric acid and zinc chloride, then the samples were characterized in terms of physical and chemical composition, structure and morphology, thermal behavior and kinetic and thermodynamic study. Regarding the characterization of the material, the activation with phosphoric acid showed porous morphology and a high surface area (429.7 m2 g-1) and with the kinetic study it was possible to obtain an equilibrium time of 60 min and dispersion according to Elovich kinetics (R2 = 0.96 and RMSE < 0.24). According to the experimental design, the adsorptive capacity can be evaluated with the significant result (qe = 19.87 mg g-1) under the conditions of 90 min of the adsorption process and at the concentration of 2 g L-1 of adsorbent. In relation to the equilibrium study the Langmuir model fit the data with coefficient of determination of R2 = 0.84. Finally, the Ponceau 4R dye adsorption process using coffee husks as an activated carbon was thermodynamically favorable through the negative Gibbs free energy and positive entropy (+0.022 kJ mol-1 K-1). Therefore, the use of coffee husk as activated carbon proved to be a favorable material for Ponceau 4R dye adsorption.

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Abstract This study evaluated the removal mechanisms of azo dyes from synthetic textile wastewater using spent mushroom substrate (SMS). The simultaneous adsorption and enzymatic degradation were analyzed. The effect of pH, SMS concentration and temperature were studied. The maximum enzymatic degradation (16.36%) was obtained at pH 4 and 65 g SMS L-1, whereas the maximum adsorption (62.86%) at pH 8 and 155 g SMS L-1, both at 25°C. The simultaneous enzymatic degradation and adsorption led to the removal of 75.67%. with increased color change. The kinetic study showed that dye adsorption was obtained in the first 30 minutes while the enzymatic degradation increased slowly over the time. The treatment with SMS resulted in the removal of 28.75% of the true color and no increase of effluent toxicity.

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Abstract This study shows the results obtained of evaluation and comparison of chemical analysis and ecotoxicity for evaluated the quality of water contaminated with gasoline after Fenton process. The process Fenton was efficient to remove the aromatics organic compounds such as benzene, toluene and xylenes from water contaminated with gasoline. At 90 minutes of reaction time, the concentration measured of aromatics compounds by gas chromatography were less than limit of quantification (0.05mg L-1). This value is in accordance with the limits established by Brazilian legislation for the effluents discharge. On the other hand, analysis of total phenols and dissolved organic carbon demonstrated at 120 minutes that all dissolved organic compound and total phenols are not totally removed even though benzene, toluene and xylenes were almost completely removed. Phytotoxicity tests using Sinapis alba as biological response showed that water contaminated with gasoline are not toxic, however these results was probably influenced by volatilization of aromatics compounds during the assay. Differently, the ecotoxicity using Daphnia magna showed that water contaminated with aromatic compounds is toxic, but after 120 minutes of treatment the toxicity was reduced more than 50%. Then, Daphnia magna was the better bioindicator to evaluate the efficiency of Fenton process since these results were according with response of dissolved organic carbon and total phenol showing the toxicity of intermediates produced during the Fenton process.

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Abstract Soil erosion is the most important soil degradation process threatening arid, semi-arid and semi-humid areas. In this current study, in order to determine the susceptibility of micro basin soils in Çorum province with semi-humid ecological conditions to erosion, some physico-chemical soil properties such as organic matter, sand, silt, clay, bulk density and hydraulic conductivity factors that closely affect soil erosion (USLE-K factor) were determined. For that aim, soil erodibility values were determined for soil samples taken from surface depth (0-20 cm) of the micro basin. In addition, ANN approach was used to estimate the availability of this parameter in similar ecological conditions and spatial distribution of erosion susceptibility maps for the current micro basin were produced with the results obtained. The neural network's input parameters included organic matter, bulk density, hydraulic conductivity, sand, silt, and clay. The output parameter chosen was erodibility. R2 values of 0.81509 for the test, 0.99 for the training, 0.95 for the validation value, and 0.99 for all values were achieved when taking into account the results of the artificial neural network study.

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Abstract Pharmaceutical product development is a challenging, time-consuming, and cost-intensive process. Computational methods could be used for assistance and speed up the industrial process. Artificial neural networks (ANN) and neuro-fuzzy models are tools of artificial intelligence that can be used to develop pharmaceutical products to enhance productivity, quality, and consistency. In the present review, the working principle of ANN and neuro-fuzzy models has been discussed, elaborating on their different types, advantages, and disadvantages. Furthermore, the application of these computational techniques in developing pharmaceutical products like suspension, emulsion, microemulsion, nanocarriers, tablets, transdermal preparations, etc., has been discussed in detail.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Rapid developments in the era of IoT technologies, coupled with the espousal of social media tools and applications, have promoted the use of data analytics as a means to gain significant insights from unstructured data. Sentiment analysis is an approach that identifies data polarity to classify a text as positive, neutral, or negative. Also referred to as opinion mining or subjective mining, sentiment analysis has applications that range from marketing and customer service to clinical medicine. The application of sentiment analysis in the epoch of big data has proved invaluable in classifying sentiment and, in general, determining opinions from the average person’s frame of mind Several sentiment analysis techniques have been developed over the years. In this regard, this article presents a brief survey on the sentiment analysis applications, as well as feature extraction and sentiment classification techniques. This article surveys various feature extractions techniques and concludes that each technique has its own pros and cons, and can be combined for better results. The survey on classification methods suggests that hybrid methods provide finer results than individual ones. The survey of applications surmises that sentiment analysis as applied to different sectors, helps expand business opportunities. Also, the paper presents a few open challenges in carrying out sentiment analysis.

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Abstract This literature brief review compiled the main biological activities and active chemical constituents that have already been isolated from Piper aduncum (Piperaceae), whose common name is spiked paper. In Brazilian Portuguese, it has been called pimenta-longa, aperta-ruão, pimenta de macaco, matico, erva de jaboti, jaborandi do mato, pimenta-de-fruto-ganchoso and tapa buraco. Extracts, essential oils (EOs) and compounds isolated from this species have exhibited remarkable fungicidal and insecticidal activities, besides antibacterial, antileishmanial, antioxidant, cytotoxic/antitumor, larvicidal, antiplatelet, molluscoidal and antiviral ones. P. aduncum is an endemic species in Brazil which has drawn researchers’ attention because of high contents of EOs that are extracted from its leaves, inflorescences and twigs. This study aimed at analyzing data on P. aduncum, its EOs, extracts and isolated compounds found in 45 research papers. Its major chemical constituent is definitely dillapiole, an arylpropanoid. Findings were carefully compiled by this brief review which reinforces the chemical and biological potential of this botanic species.

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Abstract The decision whether the bipotential gonadal anlage will become a testis or ovary is a critical step during sex determination and differentiation in fish. This process involves a complex and coordinated genetic cascade, which result in the differentiation of the somatic cells into ovary or testis. In this context, important genes of TGF-β superfamily appears have a pivotal role in this biological process of fish development. In this review, we showed the breakthrough in the last decades that engage the Anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh) as an important effector in this decision. Here we exposed studies with different species of fishes around of world have paved the way for clarifying the role of Amh in the regulation of the germ cells proliferation, which may influence the spermatogenesis and, sex determination and differentiation decision on teleost fish.

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Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the biometric characteristics of seeds of Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill. and Cnidoscolus urens (L.) Arthur from different matrices in the semi-arid region of Brazil. For biometric evaluation, the length, width, and thickness dimensions and mass of 100 seeds of each species. The data were analysed by univariate statistics, corresponding to the position (mean, minimum and maximum values) and dispersion (standard deviation and coefficient of variation) measurements. In addition, histograms were constructed to analyse the frequency distribution pattern of biometric characteristics. J. mollissima seeds had an average length of 1.278 cm, width of 0.823 cm, thickness of 0.697 cm, and mass of 0.2220 g. The low standard error values indicated that the sampling accurately reflects the population. The frequency distribution analysis showed length between 1.240 and 1.321 cm, width between 0.787 and 0.886 cm, thickness intervals from 0.691 to 0.709 and from 0.653 to 0.671 cm, and mass of seeds concentrated between 0.1684 and 0.2477 g. For C. urens seeds, the registered biometric data were: average length of 0.789 cm, width of 0.238 cm, thickness of 0.405 cm, and mass of 0.0248 g. The sampling also accurately reflects the population as low standard error values were obtained. The frequency distribution analysis showed length between 0.768 and 0.835 cm, width between 0.234 and 0.251 cm, thickness from 0.408 and 0.423 cm, and seed mass ranging from 0.0215 to 0.0240 g. Therefore, the information provided contributes to the identification of species, and diagnosis of their genetic variability.

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Abstract The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 causes a dreadful Coronavirus Disease namely COVID-19. Respiratory system is the primary target of the virus. It also impairs other major organs such as kidney, heart, liver, brain etc. Multiple novel variants of SARS-CoV-2 have appeared since the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic occurred which are linked to increased virulence, disease transmission and severity. The virus attacks the host signalling pathways to maintain a favourable environment for its spread. The present study focuses on the comprehensive analysis of major signaling pathways affected due to several variants of SARS-CoV-2 leading to abnormalities in cell growth and differentiation. The information was curated from the weblinks of several platforms like WHO, CDC, PANGO, Nextstrain clade and GISAID clade. The data on signaling pathways and comorbidities was generated by screening of different research and review articles. SARS-CoV-2 consolidates the cytoskeleton of the host for effective cell invasion and modulates the transcription processes to enable the translation of viral protein(s). These events lead to significant increase and prolonged hyper inflammation. Further, a decreased interferon (IFN) response along with increased interleukin production leading to cytokine storm is observed. Deregulation of interleukin pathways, TNF-α signalling through JAK/STAT-3 signalling, MAPK1, mTOR, PI3K are few other signalling pathways that are affected on SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review represents a comprehensive analysis of the vigorous life cycle of SARS CoV-2, its different variants affecting host signalling pathways which eventually cause dysfunctioning of several organs and development of comorbidities.

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Abstract The use of biopolymers and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is currently investigated as an excellent application biomaterial in the tissue engineering field. Natural biomaterials with application potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are due to their characteristics in biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical characteristic. Though, the basic knowledge of three‐dimensional fibrin scaffold and chitosan/alginate processing technology combined with an understanding of the physical-chemical properties of this natural biomaterial is necessary for proper application in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. This mini review summarizes the information on the composition of chitosan/alginate and PRF in medical area and discusses recent developments with a special focus on its use for the application of drug delivery. The most important advances and stimulating applications are studies in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, for wound healing to treat burns, tumor treatment, nanoparticle carriers, and drug delivery systems.

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Abstract Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium, considered one of the significant discoveries about 40 years ago, and was isolated and cultured from the human stomach. H. pylori has infected more than half of the human population, making it one of the most well-known human pathogens. The front line of immune response starts with innate recognition of H. pylori and its mediators and intracellular signaling by gastric epithelial cells in which they recognize and respond to bacterial products such as flagella, lipopolysaccharides, and peptidoglycan. The inflammatory response is followed by the recruitment of various cells of the innate and adaptive immune system. Cytokines including IL-12, IL-23, and TGF-β direct the polarization of CD4+ T helper cells to Th1, Th17, and Treg, respectively. The clinical symptoms that may occur as a result of H. pylori infection linked to the virulence factors of the bacteria, the genetic factors of the host, and the immune responses. Specific antigens have been found as part of these crucial virulence factors. The specific antigens may play a role in the development of an effective vaccine to eradicate H. pylori infection. Innate and adaptive immunity and genetic factors have an important place in understanding the host response mechanisms, elucidating the pathogenesis of the disease, and developing new targeted therapy approaches. Thus, the aim of this study is to understand immune responses and investigate the potential therapeutic vaccination against H. pylori.

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Abstract One of the most important issues, according to the World Health Organization, to be addressed during the COVID-19 pandemic is understanding the risk factors for the severity of the disease. Some studies show a possible association of SARS-CoV-2 with risk factors such as particulate matter and some weather conditions, in addition to behavioral factors such as smoking. The present review aimed to evaluate the correlation between COVID-19 and these potential risk factors. The Web of Science database searched for eligible studies covering experimental and epidemiological studies from March 2020 to March 2022. The recognized risk groups for an unfavorable evolution are the elderly, those with chronic diseases (such as diabetes, hypertension, and pulmonary diseases), and those who use immunobiological or chemotherapy drugs. But some environmental factors may come to transmit the severity of COVID-19 cases. Lifestyle may be responsible for the variability in the severity of COVID-19, with smoking being one of the main factors, yet environmental factors such as particulate matter levels, humidity, and temperature have been shown to affect the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2.

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Abstract Exponential increase in population has led to the release of large amounts of unregulated and untreated wastewater into water bodies such as rivers, lakes, streams, and estuaries causing various environmental and health issues. Traditionally various procedures are applied for the treatment of wastewater at the local and municipality level. Due to the increased need and development of newer technologies, it is necessary to understand all the available procedures and evaluate their efficiency. In the present review, all the important methods involved in the treatment of wastewater and its monitoring have been comprehensively discussed and compared along with their advantages and disadvantages. Information will not only help in understanding the treatment of wastewater but it will also help in developing procedures for the reuse of treated water for various alternative purposes.