Abstract in English:

Abstract The fruit of Spondias mombin (cajazeira) is widely consumed in the northeast region of Brazil. In this work, three different extraction methods, namely ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), turbo-extraction (TE) and pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE), were evaluated in order to investigate the potential of cajazeira leaves as an alternative source of bioactive compounds. The extraction methods were compared in terms of yield, chemical composition and total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts. The highest yields and TPC values were obtained by TE with a mixture ethanol: water (70:30%, v/v) as the solvent. PHWE has not yet been applied for the extraction of cajazeira leaves. Thus, it was evaluated as one alternative for the recovery of phenolic compounds under conditions of 80, 100 and 120 °C and 100 and 120 bar. A modeling study of PHWE kinetics was investigated at 80 °C and 200 bar. Furthermore, a biorefinery approach considering integrated processes to recover bioactive compounds was investigated and the results showed that combining processes may enhance the valorization of agricultural waste.

Abstract in English:

Abstract In Brazil, the recurring environmental impacts due to insufficient inspection and inadequate management of potentially toxic mining tailings have raised significant concerns. The study concentrates on examining the mobility of elements in flotation (ft) and cyanidation (ct) tailings from gold mining operations, following successive extractions. The influence of extractants on the release of elements from both ft and ct samples, including As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Pb, Se, and Zn, was examined and compared to the ABNT NBR 10004:2004 standard. The samples were obtained from a gold mining company in Brazil. Sequential extraction tests for ft and ct samples were conducted to simulate weathering effects, using solutions of 0.1 mol L-1 citric acid, 0.1 mol L-1 acetic acid, 0.1 mol L-1 oxalic acid, 0.1 mol L-1 ammonium acetate, and distilled water at pH 5.5. The results revealed that the established limits for Pb and Cd under the ABNT NBR 10004:2004 standard were exceeded in a 1:1 tailing-to-extractor ratio. In ct samples, both elements surpassed the standard limits for all extractors, except for Cd when using water. In ft samples, Pb exceeded the limits with all acids, while Cd exceeded the limits only in the presence of acetic acid and ammonium acetate.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Morus nigra L., commonly known as black mulberry, is a significant plant species in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. It is also considered an Unconventional Food Plant with potential applications in nutrition. The diversity of bioactive compounds present accounts for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antitumor properties. Thus, this study aimed to analyze technological and scientific information on M. nigra by examining patent documents and scientific papers. The European Patent Office®, the National Institute of Industrial Property®, and Scopus® were utilized as research sources, employing the search terms “Morus nigra” for the former two and “Morus nigra” and “food” for the latter. A total of 210 documents were validated for the research. China leads in patent applications (44%), while Turkey leads in scientific publications (30%). Patents are concentrated in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and beverages, while scientific publications in the areas of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology. The global blackberry trade is on the rise, attracting significant interest from multinational companies. Therefore, academic research and technological innovation must keep pace with market demand, given the promising use of black mulberry.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Eugenia punicifolia (Kunth) DC (Myrtaceae) is a folk medicinal plant in the Brazilian Cerrado with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antiulcerogenic activities, etc., usually attributed to its phenolic compounds. Since these compounds are sensitive to heat and light, and to increase their applications, Hydroethanolic Extracts E. punicifolia (HEEP, EtOH:H2O 70% v/v) were encapsulated by freeze-drying in xanthan gum (mesh 80, HEEPX80; mesh 200, HEEPX200) in ratio 1:1(w/w). Flavonoids had the highest encapsulation efficiency in HEEPX80, with a total flavonoid content of 55.56%. The release profile at different pH levels showed that pH = 4.5, a relevant antioxidant activity for HEEPX80 and HEEPX200. Also, in HEEP-modified release, higher antioxidant activity was observed in more acidic media (pH 4.5) than in a more neutral medium (pH 7.4). From these results, we could infer that HEEP encapsulations with Xanthan gum could be a good alternative for preserving antioxidants in these extracts.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Maternal endotoxemia disturbs the intrauterine environment, impairs nephrogenesis, and increases the risk of hypertension and kidney disease in adulthood. Here, it was investigated whether maternal treatment with the water extract of Moringa oleifera seeds (WEMoS) or the water-soluble M. oleifera seed lectin (WSMoL) prevents the oxidative stress induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in pregnant rats, and the renal injury and hypertension in the adult offspring. The administration of WEMoS or WSMoL prevented the stimulatory effects of LPS on lipid peroxidation in the maternal-placenta-fetuses environment. The impact of WEMoS was linked to decreased superoxide anions production in the placenta. The effects of WSMoL were parallel to the inhibition of superoxide anion production and NADPH oxidase activity. The WSMoL also prevented increased NADPH oxidase activity in the fetal kidney. The LPS offspring presented higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) and increased lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), NADPH oxidase activity, and nitrate/nitrite in the kidney; the maternal treatment with WEMoS and WSMoL prevented these changes. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that WEMoS and WSMoL have protective effects on maternal endotoxemia, which involve antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions that prevent the programming of hypertension.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Age estimation is a crucial component of human identification in forensic science. It has a vital role in forensic anthropology, including examinations of skeletal remains, disaster victim identification, and locating missing individuals. Present communication focuses on the age estimation through the examination of ossification centers of bones and its significance in identifying the age of 18 years old, a recognized age of majority in many countries. The process of ossification is integral to biological development and serves as critical standard for age estimation in forensic identification. This study reviews relevant literature from well-known databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Additionally, the present review elaborates various classification methods used by authors to classify the stages of ossification centers of bones. The objective of this communication is to assess the effectiveness of both imaging and physical methods for age estimation and to provide a critical comparison to determine the superior approach. The findings suggest that imaging methods are more reliable for the estimation of age from ossification centers. Staging methods introduced by Schmeling et al, Kellinghaus et al, Dedouit et al, Vieth et al, and Kvist et al. are found to be the best methods for age estimation.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Nanotechnology is a fast-growing field with large number of applications. Therefore, the current study, was designed to prepare Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) from A. modesta leaves extract through a cost-effective method. The prepared NPs were characterized through UV-Vis Spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The XRD and DLS analysis revealed the hexagonal nanocrystalline nature of ZnO NPs. The FTIR results displayed multiple fictional groups and UV results confirmed its optical properties. The average size of the NPs was 68.3 nm with a band gap of 2.71 eV. The SEM images divulge a clover leaf shape of ZnO NPs. The EDX spectrum revealed the presence of zinc and oxygen. The prepared NPs showed excellent biomedical application. The highest antileishmanial activity was 68%, anti-inflammatory activity was 78%, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was 79.1%, antibacterial potential (ZOI) 22.1 mm, and highest growth inhibition of 85 ± 2.1% against A. rabiei. The adsorption efficiency of 85.3% within 120 min was obtained. Conclusively ZnO NPs have shown potential biomedical and environmental applications and ought to be the more investigated to enhance their practical use.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study explored the association of cardioprotective role of thyroid hormones (TH) and benefit effects of grape juice (GJ) on vascular function against the apoptosis and inflammation associated with monocrotaline (MCT)-induced pulmonary hypertension (PH). Wistar rats were distributed into five groups: control; PH (MCT 60mg/kg i.p.); PH+GJ (GJ-7 µL/g / day, gavage for 14 days); PH+TH (T3, 2μg/100g/day, and T4, 8μg/100g/day, by gavage for 14 days); and PH+TH+GJ. Echocardiographic, morphometric measurements and expression of proteins associated with apoptosis and inflammation were evaluated. The reduced cardiac output (35%) in PH was attenuated in the PH+GJ, PH+TH, and PH+TH+GJ groups (P<0.05). Both GJ and TH had no effect on the PH-induced hypertrophy index. The PH + TH group showed reduced BAX (~90%) and increased Bcl2 levels (~80%) as compared to PH group (P<0.05). The PH-induced increase in caspase 3 was diminished (~92%) in the PH+TH (P<0.05). Both GJ and TH, isolated and combined, reduced caspase 9 levels (~70%). PH-provoked elevated NLRP3 levels was decreased (~90%) in PH+TH (P<0.05). The therapeutic approach showed cardioprotective effects in the PH model which may be mediated by mitigation of apoptosis and inflammation.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by excessive deposition of collagen in the hepatic parenchyma, which disturbs the normal architecture and function. We have shown that human amniotic membrane (AM) can be used as a patch on the whole liver surface, resulting in an extremely significant reduction in collagen deposition. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of AM on the matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and matrix metalloproteinase 12 (MMP12) genes and proteins expression by real time quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively, as well as image analysis on biliary fibrosis induced in rats by the bile duct ligation (BDL).Two weeks after the BDL, an AM fragment was applied onto the liver, and four weeks later, the liver samples were collected. MMP9 and MMP12 genes were significantly over expressed in group treated with AM. The immunoexpression of MMP9 and MMP12 was observed in all groups. However, the quantitative image analysis demonstrated an increase of the area occupied only by MMP12 in the livers of AM-treated rats with respect to BDL rats. These findings suggest that the AM exerts its beneficial effects on biliary fibrosis by increasing the MMP12, which in turn reduces the excessive collagen deposition on liver tissue.

Abstract in English:

Abstract In forensics, genetic human identification is generally achieved by nuclear STR DNA typing. However, forensic samples often yield DNA in exiguous quantity and low quality, impairing the generation of conclusive DNA profiles by STR typing. In such cases, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) can be used as an alternative solution in forensic human identification. The high copy number, small circular DNA, high mutation rate, maternal inheritance, and absence of recombination are mtDNA’s key features in forensics. In this work, we review mtDNA characteristics, forensic applications, sequencing methodologies and present some relevant examples in the forensic science literature.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Peripheral regulation emerges as a promising intervention in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The hub genes in the peripheral blood of MCI patients from GEO database (GSE63060, GSE63061) were screened using weighted gene co-expression analysis (WGCNA). Meanwhile, behavioral tests, HE staining and Nissl staining were used to detect the memory impairment and histopathological changes in 24-week-old male 3×Tg-AD mice. Thioflavin-S and immunohistochemical staining were used to determine the Aβ deposition in both intracellular and extracellular neurons. Subsequently, the MCI-hub genes were verified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in the peripheral blood of 3×Tg-AD mice. The research revealed ten hub genes associated with MCI were identified WGCNA. Short-term memory loss, intracellular Aβ deposition and limited of extracellular amyloid plaques in 3×Tg-AD mice. The qRT-PCR analysis of peripheral blood from these mice revealed significantly down-regulation in the expression levels of ATP5C1, ITGB2, EFTUD2 and RPS27A genes; whereas the expression level of VCP gene was significantly up-regulated. These findings confirmed that 24-week-old male 3×Tg-AD mice were a valuable animal model for simulating the early symptomatic stages of AD. Additionally, the peripheral blood MCI-hub genes related to immune response, energy metabolism and ribosomal coding efficiency provide potential biomarkers for this stage.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve (RLN) injury is a complication in neck surgery. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of primary suture repair with melatonin treatment on nerve regeneration after RLN damage. After the RLN damage, nerve repair was performed in the first and fourth groups. The third and fourth groups were given intraperitoneal melatonin therapy daily for six weeks. EMG was applied to all subjects and vocal cord movements were evaluated endoscopically. At the end of the sixth week, all subjects were sacrificed, and their larynx were examinedhistologically. Vocal cord paralysis (VCP) was observed in all subjects after RLN damage. In the sixth week, improvement was observed in the first and fourth group who underwent nerve repair, whereas none in the second and third group, who did not undergo nerve repair, improved. With EMG, the highest MUP was in the fourth group. Histologically, an increase in Schwann cells, a decrease in axon damage, and cytoplasmic vacuolization were in the fourth group. Myelin protein zero and Ki-67 staining were the most in the fourth group. In our study, laryngoscopic, electrophysiological and histopathological findings show that melatonin contributes to nerve healing but this could not translate into functional recovery.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Fewer donations are being made in Brazil to meet the growing organ demand. Organ donation in Brazil reached an average of 53% consent. However, hospitals in Paraná have reached a level of 94.2%. What reasons could be given for these levels? Accordingly, this study aimed to understand the causes involved in decision-making to donate organs. The methodology used was qualitative based on a case study. Data was collected at a hospital in Toledo, a city in Paraná, through documentary research and semi-structured interviews with two distinct groups: professionals responsible for the family approach to donation and five families consenting to donation. The search for data was restricted to the period between 2015 and 2023. Data analysis used Bardin’s content analysis. The results were organized into four categories in the first group, and two categories in the second group, suggesting that aspects linked to bioethical references present in the interview, such as beneficence and autonomy, contribute to the emergence of high rates of family consent for organ donation in the hospital studied. It is recommended for future research to test successful interview models to reverse the current organ donation rates in Brazil.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Euschistus heros (Fabricius, 1798) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) is a soybean pest in Brazil. It has a reproductive success that may be associated with the female receptaculum seminis or spermatheca, a reproductive organ for spermatozoa storage until the oocyte fertilization. This study describes the anatomy and histology of the female receptaculum seminis in E. heros. The female receptaculum seminis was dissected and analyzed with a stereomicroscope, following standard procedures for histological and histochemical analyses. The female receptaculum seminis of E. heros has a spherical caspula seminalis and a duct. The epithelial cells of the capsula seminalis have two cell layers with basal one presenting columnar cells with a collecting canaliculus opening in the lumen. The apical layer has cuboidal cells. The cytoplasm in both cell layers was rich in protein. These features suggest a secretory function of these cells. The duct has four regions characterized by muscular pars intermedialis with anterior and posterior cuticular flanges, an elongated and narrow distal ductus receptaculi, a well-developed enlarged vesicular area, and a proximal ductus receptaculi, which indicate several functions, such as control the release and transport of spermatozoa and secretory. These results contribute to the comprehension of the reproductive biology of this agricultural pest.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of ora-pro-nobis (Pereskia aculeate) flour supplementation on the in vivo basal antioxidant system of Drosophila melanogaster, and its action on the neural modulation observed by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The flies will receive a standard diet with flour incorporated at 5, 10 and 20% for 7 days. There was no change in food consumption, body weight, protein thiol levels and negative geotaxis behavior. The flies showed a reduction in the basal production of reactive species at concentrations of 10 and 20%, while there was a reduction in lipid peroxidation and catalase activity at all concentrations, accompanied by an increase in the levels of non-protein thiols. Superoxide dismutase activity was reduced in the 5 and 20% groups, while the reduction of superoxide anion in the 10% group may have contributed to the increase in longevity also in the 10% group. Longevity increased in groups 5 and 10%. The open field test may be related to the reduction in AChE activity in the 5, 10 and 20% groups. In general, the data show that supplementation with ora-pro-nobis flour at the concentrations tested did not cause toxicity and modulated the cholinergic system, demonstrating a therapeutic potential.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Allagoptera campestris is an acaulescent, rhizomatous palm tree that occurs in grassland and savanna areas (Cerrado). In the Santa Bárbara Ecological Station (Águas de Santa Bárbara, São Paulo, Brazil) the species is found growing in three distinct conditions: 1) in the understory of Pinus species plantations introduced in the 1970s in formerly open savanna, 2) in an area where Pinus species cultivated in the 1970s were later removed and the remaining material burned, and 3) in an open, undisturbed savanna area without the interference of pines. Anatomical studies carried out with A. campestris leaves collected in the same three areas indicated leaf plasticity in response to growth conditions. To verify whether there are differences in vessel element morphology in belowground organs, light, and scanning electron microscopy analyses were conducted on portions just below the crown, in the middle of the rhizome, and the median portions of three longer adventitious roots sampled from three plants in each area. The study reveals significant variations in vessel element characteristics of A. campestris, with roots consistently displaying longer and larger elements than rhizomes, and environmental conditions, especially in pine understory, influence vessel dimensions, and hydraulic conductivity in a negative manner.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Biomphalaria straminea is one of the three snails that act as the intermediate hosts of Schistosoma mansoni and is responsible for maintaining high rates of schistosomiasis in some areas of northeastern Brazil. The principal morphological characteristic of B. straminea is the marked vaginal wrinkling, although it is also present in congeneric species, a group known as the B. straminea complex. Based on the morphological and molecular analyses, we investigated the intraspecific variation of B. straminea. The specimens were obtained from 10 sites in Brazil, and the shells were analyzed, as well as 16 morphological structures of the reproductive system. The COI and ITS2 sequences were used for phylogenetic analysis, genetic divergence, and haplotype network (COI). We observed a large intraspecific variation in the morphological structures examined. The genetic divergence also demonstrated significant intraspecific variability in B. straminea: 0–3% in ITS2 sequences, and 0–6% in COI sequences. Analysis of the distribution of COI haplotypes recovered 16 haplotypes and haplotype diversity of 0.9088. These results indicate phenotypic variability that is not constrained to a locality or strictly controlled genetically by B. straminea, which may have driven a misidentified of these species.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Astyanax bimaculatus are small characids known as piabas or lambaris that form a complex encompassing 18 species, including cryptic species. The present study aimed to use DNA barcode to analyze populations of A. bimaculatus found in Maranhão hydrographic basins, comparing molecular diversity indices between populations from the other Brazilian basins. The results revealed the formation of 32 haplotypes (h = 0.9289; π = 0.0523). Seven haplogroups were formed with intrapopulation genetic distance ranging from 0 to 2%. The Maranhão populations of the Western Northeast Atlantic Region basins separated from the other analyzed basins, corroborating with the groups generated in BAPS and with the Bayesian Inference tree. The occurrence of exclusive OTUs for the Maranhão populations of the Western Northeast Atlantic Region was confirmed through delimitation models. Thus, the data from this study provide information on the genetic diversity of the A. bimaculatus complex with the detection of a different lineage for the State of Maranhão, contributing to the understanding of the group’s systematics.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Benznidazole (BZ) is the trypanocidal compound of choice for Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease in the Americas. However, this drug often fails to cure the infection. The regulation of gene expression in Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, is based on post-transcriptional mechanisms. When environmental changes cause translational arrest, RNA-binding proteins, and their target mRNAs assemble into cytoplasmic bodies, known as RNA granules, which act as RNA sorting centers. We have characterized the T. cruzi RNA-binding protein DRBD3, which has two RRMs domains, and a C-terminal low-complexity sequence rich in proline and glutamines. Using a tagged form of TcDRBD3 (rTcDRBD3), we showed that this protein resides in the cytoplasm, but localizes into perinuclear cytoplasmic foci after BZ exposure. RNA staining after BZ also showed that this molecule accumulates into perinuclear cytoplasmic foci. Moreover, BZ and puromycin treatment enhanced the colocalization of rTcDRBD3 and RNA, suggesting that TcDRBD3 granules repertoire harbors RNAs released from polysomes. Under starvation, rTcDRBD3 granules localized throughout the cytoplasm and also increased in number in the presence of puromycin. Our results suggest that TcDRBD3 accumulates into perinuclear granules that harbor RNA and also that its localization varies according to the type of stress.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Currently, there is a demand for protein sources that do not use soil management or animal breeding. Among these sources we highlight the microorganisms, such cyanobacteria and microalgae, which have a simple growth using light, CO2, water and some mineral salts to generate high protein production. The extraction of these proteins depends on the method used. The most used methods for extracting bio-functional proteins are mechanical, chemical and enzymatic. The aim of this work is to analyze the protein extraction methods in microalgae using Scielo, ScienceDirect and NCBI (PubMed) electronic databases that made it possible to select original studies published in the last five years (2018-2023). A total of 2707 articles, 25 of which were selected for further analysis and subjected to risk of bias assessment. The genera Chlorella, Scenedesmus and Nannochloropsis were the most studied due to their high protein content. Mechanical methods and chemical hydrolysis are the most used methods, achieving an extraction yield of 46.0 % and 64.0 %, respectively. The best extraction results are obtained with a combination of methods, reaching up to 80.0 % yield. However, some aspects need to be observed to choose an ideal protein extraction method.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The use of marine microorganisms in the treatment of dyes and textile effluents is promising in view of their tolerance to salinity, a characteristic found in this kind of effluent. In this study, different culture conditions were applied to evaluate the decolorization, degradation, and detoxification of Sulphur Indigo Blue (SIB) by the marine-derived basidiomycete Paramarasmius palmivorus CBMAI 1062. Low salt concentration (SLS) and high salt concentration (SMASHS) media were used. P. palmivorus decolorized 100 % and 91.38 % of SIB after 120 h of growth in the SLS medium and after 168 h of growth in the SMASHS medium, respectively. Laccase activity was detected only in the SLS bioassay. UV-Vis, FT-IR, and GC-MS analyses indicated the occurrence of dye biosorption and biotransformation. In the SLS medium metabolites associated with SIB biotransformation (e.g. aldehyde, alkanes, and phenols) were detected. The toxicity measured by Cucumis sativus decreased from 45.41 % to 24.11 % in the SLS bioassay, while in SMASHS medium there was no change in toxicity. The efficiency for decolorization and detoxification of SIB indicates that microorganisms from the marine environment can be a source for biotechnological application in bioremediation processes carried out under saline conditions, adding value to blue biotechnology.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The demand for less hazardous and environmentally friendly surface disinfectants is growing and essential oils may be efficient alternatives. Vapor phase assay is a promising technique which explore the volatility of essential oils for determining the antimicrobial activity. In this study, we modified the conditions of the inverted Petri dish technique to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC). As a proof of concept, the antimicrobial activity of Hesperozygis myrtoides essential oil (HM) was studied for the first time in the vapor phase. According to the established protocol the oil volatilization dynamics was used to determine the major compounds in the vapor phase. After 270 min, the relative percentage was like that observed in the crude oil analysis. The HM was also evaluated for safety (IC50=921.2 µg ml-1), being considered safe in case of acute oral exposure. The oil vapors completely inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (MIC=0.39 mg l-1), Candida albicans (MIC=0.83 mg l-1), Aspergillus brasiliensis (MIC=378 mg l-1) and Bacillus subtilis (MIC=704.8 mg l-1). This protocol offers an economical and efficient alternative for antimicrobial activity and safety determination of essential oils, can be used for the evaluation of several applications of essential oils, as disinfectant agent in inhabited environments.

Abstract in English:

Abstract There are about 80 species of wild edible mushroom that certainly occur in Brazil and can be used as a natural source of food and medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro mycelial development in culture media at different temperatures and substrates for cultivation of the edible mushroom species Auricularia fuscosuccinea and Laetiporus gilbertsonii. Additionally, the cultivation and the nutritional composition of A. fuscosuccinea mushrooms were evaluated. The two best wild strains of each species were selected for the in vitro cultivation experiment in two different substrates. Furthermore, an axenic cultivation on sawdust was conduct and the basidiomata produced were evaluated on their nutritional composition. The temperatures that best favored the mycelial growth were 30 °C for A. fuscosuccinea and 25 °C and 30 °C for L. gilbertsonii. The mycelium of both species developed better in the sterile Eucalyptus sawdust substrate. Despite the success in cultivating the mycelium of L. gilbertsonii, it was not possible to obtain basidioma for this species. On the other hand, it was possible to produce basidiomata of the two tested wild strains of A. fuscosuccinea.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Candida albicans is the primary species causing oral candidiasis. Its increasing drug resistance drives the search for more effective antifungal agents. Therefore, we assessed toxicological parameters and the antimicrobial activity and mechanisms of action of the monoterpene (-)-fenchone against oral C. albicans. We conducted an in silico study using PASS online and AdmetSAR, followed by evaluation of antifungal activity through Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC), association study with miconazole, and assays with sorbitol and ergosterol. Inhibition of biofilm formation and disruption of preformed biofilm were considered. Toxicity was also assessed through hemolysis assay. The in silico study revealed a higher likelihood of the compound being active for antifungal activity, as well as promising pharmacokinetic and toxicity characteristics. Subsequently, (-)-fenchone exhibited predominantly fungicidal activity (MIC90 = 8 μg/mL; MFC = 16 μg/mL), including against miconazole-resistant C. albicans isolates. The substance does not appear to act by damaging the fungal cell wall or plasma membrane, and exhibited synergy with miconazole. There was activity in inhibiting biofilm formation but not in disrupting preformed biofilm. Finally, the product exerted low hemolytic activity at more than MIC×10. Based on these results, (-)-fenchone may represent a promising therapeutic alternative for oral candidiasis.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The economic development of human activities contributes to the discharge of many anthropogenic pollutants. To assess the environmental risks in the Jaguaribe River, the most important river in the hydrographic region of the Eastern Northeast Atlantic, a bibliographic review of scientific articles and a series of ecotoxicological bioassays were conducted. The bioassays were conducted using sediment samples at six collection sites along the river, while the bibliographic review was used to identify the presence of anthropogenic contaminants in sediment and tissue samples of aquatic organisms within two km of each of the sediment collection sites. The bibliographic review showed the presence of thirty-eight anthropogenic pollutants in sediment samples and seven in tissue samples of aquatic organisms. The ecotoxicological bioassays showed that the sediment samples produced lethal and sublethal effects in the four tested representatives of the different trophic levels: Daphnia magna, Artemia salina, Allium cepa and Cucumis sativus. The presence of multiple anthropogenic pollutants in the Jaguaribe River and the observed lethal and sublethal effects in ecotoxicological bioassays suggest potential risks not only to the aquatic ecosystem but also to human health. Humans may be exposed to these contaminants through the consumption of water and aquatic organisms, leading to potential health issues such as increased cancer risk. The findings underscore the urgent need for regular monitoring and effective pollution control measures to mitigate these health risks and protect the well-being of local communities.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study aimed to assess the combined antibacterial effect of lectins and antibiotics on S. aureus ATCC 25923, multidrug-resistant E. coli ATCC 11303 and S. aureus ATCC 700698. Using the checkerboard assay, we evaluated the antibacterial effects of eight lectins isolated from marine organisms combined with two common antibiotics, oxacillin and tetracycline, on three virulent bacterial strains. Initially, none of the tested lectins exhibited antibacterial effects when used individually. However, when combined with antibiotics, the lectins exhibited synergistic, additive, antagonistic, or no interaction. Overall, the tested lectins alone had no effect on the efficacy of oxacillin. On the other hand, different lectins in combination with tetracycline potentiated its antimicrobial effect. Lectins from red algae of the Bryothamnium genus, for example, exhibited the most significant synergistic effects, reducing the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of tetracycline by up to 16 times. Lectins from the Hypnea genus also reduced the MIC of tetracycline. Our findings suggest that some lectins binding to complex carbohydrates containing fucosylated cores (α1-6) are excellent candidates to boost the efficacy of some antibiotics.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Amazonian white-sand ecosystems have predominantly sandy soils and a high amount of endemism, and several species found within them are adapted to long periods of drought. However, little is known about the variation in the structure of anuran assemblages in these ecosystems. Considering that most species are not uniformly distributed in heterogeneous landscapes, we tested the hypothesis that anuran assemblage variation in white-sand ecosystems is related to changes in vegetation structure. Specifically, we focused on a heterogeneous patch of white-sand ecosystems of the central Amazon and evaluated whether vegetation structure and soil characteristics, including root depth, influence the richness, abundance, and composition of anuran assemblages. Our results showed that low amounts of clay in the soil play an important role in structuring vegetation in these ecosystems, and these are the main factors that organize anuran assemblages. The Campinaranas close to the water bodies have a high species richness, while Campina landscapes limit the occupation of most of species. Our findings indicate that anurans undergo environmental filtering in white-sand ecosystems and are organized into hierarchical subgroups, in which only species with specialized reproduction can successfully occupy the most water-restricted environments.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Organisms can respond to environmental gradients from local to landscape features. Aquatic insects are particularly affected by watershed peculiarities due to their dependence on microhabitat conditions. However, these relationships are poorly understood in lotic ecosystems of subtropical grasslands, limiting water resources management and bioassessment proposals. Here, we investigated how local stream environment and variations in landscape types affect the assemblage structure of a bioindicator insect group, face to the spatial proximity of the sampled locations. We sampled immatures of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera in streams along the Brazilian Pampa biome, recording environmental descriptors in different grassland ecosystem types. The structure of aquatic insect assemblages differed across grassland types, with specific dominant genera associated with each landscape. Spatially-structured water physicochemical descriptors explained a significant amount of variation in assemblage data. Our findings suggest that grassland ecosystem type delimitations capture ecological attributes, influencing watershed features important to EPT assemblage structuration. Moreover, we highlight the importance of niche-based process structuring EPT assemblages along grassland ecosystem types of Pampa biome. In addition, we encourage using aquatic insects in bioassessment of lotic waters to assess local and landscape environmental impacts. We strongly recommend considering the grassland ecosystem schedule for water resources management and bioassessment proposals.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Asteraceae is highly diverse in the Atlantic Forest, especially in montane environments. The early-diverging tribes within Asteraceae are of particular interest because of their great representation in Brazil and unique features within the family. Thus, a floristic inventory and systematic treatment of these basal grade in Caparaó National Park, an important remnant of Atlantic Forest that has been highlighted for its diversity and endemism, were undertaken. The study was conducted by examining specimens from representative collections of Caparaó and a field expedition. A total of 15 species were found, representing six genera and four tribes, with Mutisieae and Nassauvieae being the most representatives. Six of the species have restricted distributions, either to Brazil (3 spp.), the Atlantic Forest (2) or Caparaó mountain (Mutisia lutzii). Three new records were documented for the park, namely Chaptalia integerrima, Moquiniastrum polymorphum and Mutisia coccinea. Floristic inventories and systematic treatments can make great contributions to science by bringing a better understanding our biodiversity and providing relevant information about flora for the conservation of priority areas.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Floodwater mosquitoes provoke nuisance due to their mass emergence. Citizen complaints about outstanding events of mosquitoes in urban areas are usually reflected in local media and could be potentially used as data. Our objective was to build a temperature dependent function to characterize the immature development time of the floodwater mosquito Ae. albifasciatus in Tandil (Argentina), and validate it using citizen complaints in local media and field collected mosquitoes. The development time obtained ranges from 5-47 days at 30-7°C, respectively. During 2000-2021, nine mosquito abundance peaks were identified through local journalistic records. For these events, the estimated hatching date was successfully associated with a previous precipitation, with a maximum difference of two days. The precipitation identified as the trigger for egg hatching ranged from 15 to 121 mm. Then, to associate mosquito news with the target species, female mosquitoes were captured by a battery-powered aspirator in green areas of the city during September 2019-June 2021. Six mosquito abundance peaks were detected in which Ae. albifasciatus accounted for 97.3% of the captures. Among them, journalistic records were able to detect the largest two; i.e. in our study above 15 mosquitoes in a five minute collection. Citizen complaints related to nuisance or vector species could be valuable retrospective data for researchers of different fields.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The Sarcophagidae family (Diptera) encompasses a group of flies of significant ecological importance. Additionally, numerous species within this family hold substantial value in the realms of medicine, veterinary and forensic science. The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive survey of Sarcophagidae species within transitional zones between the Caatinga and Cerrado biomes in the Northeastern region of Brazil. To achieve this, a total of 15 field expeditions were conducted across three distinct phytophysiognomies—riparian, vereda, and a segment of shrubby Caatinga—from 2019 to 2021. A total of 16 genera and 40 species were collected. Among them, a new species for science (Titanogrypa (Airypel) sp. nov.), Emblemasoma emblemasoma Dodge is newly recorded from South America/Brazil and the Caatinga biome, and three species constitute new records for the Northeast region (Dexosarcophaga patiuorum Santos, Pape & Mello-Patiu, Lepidodexia (Notochaeta) fumipennis (Lopes), and Oxysarcodexia meridionalis (Engel)). The most abundant species were Oxysarcodexia thornax (Walker), Oxysarcodexia avuncula (Lopes), and Argoravinia (Argoravinia) catiae Carvalho Filho & Esposito, collectively constituting 56.11% of the entire collected sample. The distribution of species across different vegetations was noted, with 19 species exclusive to riparian vegetation, three to vereda vegetation, and seven species unique to the Caatinga.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Dermanura gnoma (Handley, 1987) is a phyllostomid bat that occurs in South America. In Brazil, most of the records are concentrated in the Amazon Forest, with sparse data from Cerrado and Atlantic Forest. This study presents the first record of D. gnoma for Alagoas state, and for the Pernambuco Endemism Center (PEC), the most threatened region of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, characterized by its high rate of endemism, habitat loss, and fragmentation. The species was surveyed at Murici Ecological Station and its identification was supported by morphological and molecular data. We provide the first COI and CYTB gene sequences for this species in the entire Atlantic Forest. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that the generated sequences were recovered in the same clade as the published sequences of D. gnoma from the Amazonian Forest, corroborating the disjunct distribution pattern between Amazonia and PEC, as already reported for other vertebrate taxa. Also, this record increases the number of bat species to 71 for the PEC and extends the geographic distribution of D. gnoma by 758 kilometers to the northeast of its range.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study examined the taxonomic composition and ecological aspects of planktonic green algae (Chlorophyta) in four urban ponds (Parque da Lagoa, Lagoa Grande, Laguneville, and Pindoba) in Feira de Santana, Bahia State, Brazil. We analyzed 96 samples collected bimonthly in 2022 and identified 54 taxa, with the majority (42) classified as uncommon or sporadic. The most common species were Monoraphidium circinale and Lemmermannia komarekii, found in 100% and 95.8% of samples, respectively. Parque da Lagoa had the highest number of taxa (43), followed by Lagoa Grande (40), Laguneville (31), and Pindoba (30). Most taxa were found in water with high levels of oxygenation (5.8-12.3 mg L−1) and conductivity (400-1000 μS cm−1), neutral to slightly alkaline conditions (pH 7-8), and moderate water temperature (26-27 °C). Significant differences in the composition of planktonic green algae and limnological variables were observed among ponds. These studies underscore the importance of implementing actions aimed at the restoration and conservation of urban ponds in Feira de Santana to avoid biodiversity loss and eutrophication while ensuring the provision of critical ecosystem services, such as local climate regulation.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Ecological restoration is crucial to counter global ecosystem degradation. The Brazilian Pampa, home to significant biodiversity, has been overlooked in research and conservation policies. This study involved a comprehensive literature review of 26 articles on restoration in the Brazilian Pampa, including 17 on grasslands and nine on forests, to understand the current state of knowledge on the subject. In grassland areas, the primary challenges were the invasion of exotic species and the lack of native seed or plant material. For forest restoration, the main issue was the conversion of forested areas to pastures, with challenges including the limited availability of nurseries for native species seedlings. Despite recent increases in research and some promising results, effectively guiding restoration efforts requires more research across the ecosystems of the Pampa, stronger networks for seedling and seed production, and concrete actions to achieve national restoration policy goals. The Pampa’s potential for sustainable grassland use offers a unique opportunity to promote biodiversity conservation alongside economic development, making restoration efforts especially attractive.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Pollen dispersal by insects determines the patterns of reproductive encounters between plants with flowers that have spatially or temporally segregated sexes. Pollinators exhibit varied responses to environmental gradients, such as those in grassland-forest ecotones. Individual-based interaction networks are useful yet underexplored tools to understand how interactions vary across these gradients. To test how a grassland-forest ecotone gradient affects these interactions, we studied pollination networks of Butia odorata individuals, a key palm tree species in a threatened South American grassland ecosystem. We assessed, through Structural Equation Models (SEMs), how network metrics (specialization and modularity) and pollinator richness and abundance (total, peripheral, core) respond to gradients of habitat and population structure in the grassland-forest ecotone. Networks with more spatially isolated palms showed greater specialization and modularity. Pollinator richness was dependent on the habitat context and pollinator role. The peripheral pollinators were negatively affected by palm density. The core pollinators were positively affected by tree cover, which, in turn, was positively associated with palm density and proximity to the forest. Our results suggest that palm population density can modulate the presence of peripheral pollinators, while increased tree cover in the grassland matrix can promote pollinator diversity by decreasing the dominance of core species.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study focuses on the laboratory-scale petrophysical characterization of sandstones from the Rio Bonito Formation (Lower Permian), Paraná Basin, carried out from drill core samples from well PN-14-SC.02 obtained by CPRM-Brazilian Geological Service in the 1980s on the eastern edge of the Basin. This study includes integrating experimental data from routine petrophysics, sedimentary petrography, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) obtained from 6 samples arranged in the normal direction of the stratification, present between 40 and 200 m deep. It was possible to conclude that the values of the permeability and porosity properties obtained from the NMR technique correlated in a very satisfactory way, with correlation coefficient R2 = 0.957 and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) = 0.208 about the porosity reference results offered by routine petrophysics, with lower values being less than a porosity unit (+/- 1 p.u.), in the range between 8 and 14%. The same was observed for the estimated permeability, R2 = 0.885 and RMSE = 0.152, by the Timur Coates method, with values in the range between 0.096 and 2.42 mD, which were well supported by the spectra information, as well as by petrographic analyses.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The present study was carried out to investigate the palynoflora of Murree formation using microscopic techniques to understand the climatic changes and vegetation’s evolution. In this palynological study, 31 samples were collected, analyzed, and then identified as palynomorphs using different previous published literature. The results of this study will be described in terms of the evolutionary history of plants and the depositional environment of the reported taxa in the study area. The botanical affinities and systematic description of the taxa were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. The floral record identified Asteraceae as the dominant family and Pinus as a genus. Most of angiosperms i.e Fabaceae and Poaceae, have a poor fossil record but have an abundant palynological record in the study area. The highest polar diameter (75.75 μm), colpus length (34.5 μm) and colpus width (31 μm) were examined for the Convolvulus. Most of the taxa explained here had a wide geographical occurrence in Southeast Asia and show the abundance of angiosperms in the Miocene epoch. The palynological record of Holocene samples is important to know about the vegetation’s origin and environmental fluctuations in the study area.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Sampling (or sample) bias is a widespread concern in scientific research, across several disciplines. The concept of sampling bias originated in statistical studies. The consequence of a biased sample is that scientists will conclude about a population different from their target. In paleontology, sampling bias is typically related to fieldwork context. Human factors, known as sullegic (e.g. collection method, historic resampling) and trephic (transport, and curatorial processes) factors can generate bias. Other factor is the ugly fossil syndrome (i.e. choosing based on completeness of the specimens, or according to the researcher interest). Thus, sampling implies information loss. Biased samples add artificial results and can be considered an additional taphonomic filter. Therefore, sampling bias and the collector role and choices are frequently linked and almost indistinguishable. Compared to the treatment of this topic in other research fields, little related discussion has been held in vertebrate paleontology, especially regarding what happens at the interface between the biosphere, lithosphere, and anthroposphere, and during the transition between the anthroposphere and the patrisphere (museums). Numerous questions still arise. As a community, we must pay attention, to minimize the loss of information, from field activities to cataloging.

Abstract in English:

Abstract In this work we reported injuries caused by the spider mite Oligonychus yothersi on Vitis vinifera leaves and we also investigate the sex ratio of this species under laboratory conditions. To access the aspects regarding reproduction, females were placed individually in arenas made of V. vinifera leaves to oviposit and all progeny were mounted on slides when they reached adulthood to confirm the offspring sex. Our study showed that O. yothersi reproduces by thelytokous /arrhenotokous parthenogenesis, generating low number of males. Additionally, we found vine plants with leaf browning, particularly on the adaxial surface, where mites were usually found.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Climaciella Enderlein is a genus of the family Mantispidae (Neuroptera) restricted to the New World with records ranging from southern Canada to northern Argentina. The genus is currently represented by 12 valid species, three of them with records from Brazil: C. amapaensis Penny, C. duckei Navás, and C. semihyalina (Le Peletier & Audinet-Serville). Besides the relatively low number of species from Brazil, it is known that Climaciella species present some historical taxonomic problems. In this sense, the main goal of this study was to taxonomically revise the Climaciella species from Brazil, providing detailed (re)descriptions and illustrations of all species, an updated distribution map, and an identification key to the whole genus. The study resulted in some new taxonomic acts: C. tincta (Navás) is revalidated and C. duckei is considered a new synonym of C. tincta; two new species are described: Climaciella hoffmani sp. nov. and Climaciella pennyi sp. nov.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Triatominae are recognized as vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, a protozoan which is the etiological agent of Chagas disease. A specimen of Triatoma delpontei was found at Porto Murtinho in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. This is the first report of the occurrence of T. delpontei to the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. With the present finding, the total number of triatomines recorded in Mato do Grosso do Sul reaches 17 species, while T. delpontei, previously recorded only from Rio Grande do Sul, is now recorded to a second Brazilian state. Based on the information available in the literature, a meticulous and organized compilation has been crafted, highlighting the cytogenetics differentiations of the species occurring in this state. This work emphasizes the importance of continuous research and surveillance on Triatominae, recognized as vectors of T. cruzi.

Abstract in English:

Abstract A part two of Accipitridae Family members that belong to three genera: Circus, Gyps, and Neophron were documented as morphometrics, distribution ranges, and conservation status were reviewed and comprehensively discussed. A total of 29 voucher specimens belong to six species which are conserved in the “Iraq Natural History Research Center and Museum INHM” as follow: Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus (Linnaeus, 1758), Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus (Linnaeus, 1766), Montagus Harrier Circus pygargus (Linnaeus, 1758), Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus (Gmelin, 1770), Egyptian vulture Neophron percnopterus (Linnaeus, 1758), and Griffon vulture Gyps fulfus (Hablitz, 1783). The results revealed significant criteria about near threatened NT species IUCN and Birdlife International listed as Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus, and Endangered (EN) species as Egyptian vulture Neophron percnopterus globally decreasing population trend.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) is an efficient parasitoid of Spodoptera eggs. However, biological control programs require taxonomic, bioecological and behavioral studies of biological agents. Although the performance of T. remus in pest control has been evaluated, little is known about its behavioral aspects that can influence IPM tactics. The aim of this study was therefore to study the parameters related to the oviposition behavior of T. remus on Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) eggs. The experiment was conducted in the laboratory, where 17 females were transferred individually to arenas containing a mass of S. frugiperda eggs. Oviposition behavior was recorded for 30 minutes. The average walking speed of the females was 0.116 mm.s-1 and the total distance covered was 203.3 mm. The females remained on the egg masses for an average of 16.7 min, which corresponds to more than half of the total time. The average number of parasitized eggs was 15.1 per female in 30 minutes. Females with larger antennae had lower values for average speed and total distance covered. The results of the parameters evaluated show the standard oviposition behavior of T. remus females on S. frugiperda eggs and help us to better understand the species.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The present study aims to disclose the importance existing protected areas (PAs) and their level of protection for the conservation of the threatened Brazilian butterflies. A total of 898 occurrence records were found for all 63 species of butterflies present in the current Brazilian Red list. For all studied taxa, at least one occurrence record is within the limits of a PA. More than half of the occurrence records (61.9%) are within the limits of PAs, but less than half (41.7%) of these records are present in fully protected areas. For 17 taxa (27%), less than 50% of their records are within PAs, thus being completely unprotected. For butterfly taxa in the category “critically endangered”, 42.6% of their occurrence records falls outside PAs. Almost 99% of the records are concentrated in the Atlantic Forest and the Cerrado, the two most threatened Brazilian biomes and global hostspots of biodiversity. In conclusion, the present study showed an important panorama of how threatened Brazilian butterflies are protected (or not). Anyway, it is important to highlight that for any record inside a PA, some level of protection is provided for these taxa against the advance of environmental destruction caused by human activities.

Abstract in English:

Abstract We examined pesticide contamination in honey from Africanized honey bees in two different seasons, and evaluated the concentration and incidence of these compounds in georeferenced apiaries to provide relevant information for food safety and environmental quality. The land use and occupation of the region were evaluated by selecting 15 apiaries and georeferencing three randomly selected colonies of Africanized honey bees within each apiary. Honey samples were collected during two seasons, and three organochlorine pesticides (p.p`-DDE, Mitotane and Bicyclo[2.2.1]) and four organophosphate pesticides (Ethoprophos, Methyl Parathion, Chlorpyrifos and Fenchlorphos) were analyzed in the honey using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. 80% of the apiaries showed a predominance of agricultural land use in the foraging areas of the bees. There was a higher concentration of pesticides in samples collected during Season I compared to Season II. There were differences in the proportion of samples contaminated with pesticides between seasons. Some honey samples showed concentrations of the chlorpyrifos pesticide above the levels recommended by Brazilian legislation. Pesticide contamination of honey is not limited to specific application season, indicating the persistent presence and easy availability of pesticides, including banned pesticides not sold or prescribed by agronomists, potentially smuggled from neighboring countries.

Abstract in English:

Abstract To understand the ecoepidemiology of fleas and their interactions with domestic and wild animals, it is necessary to decode the cycles of flea abundance in relation to host species and environmental factors. The province of Misiones, known for its biodiversity and land use changes, provides an excellent study location. We assessed the diversity, prevalence, abundance, and parasitic intensity of fleas collected from 1153 rodents and opossums in various environments in the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest of Argentina, considering phytogeography and land use. Our findings were consistent with previous studies conducted in humid regions of Argentina and the Atlantic Forest in Brazil. Hosts with high population density exhibited greater flea prevalence and abundance, and widely distributed hosts showed higher flea species richness and diversity. Significant similarities in flea similarity indices among phytogeographic areas, especially in forest. Environments with an anthropogenic gradient exhibited marked dissimilarities, with higher species richness and diversity in less disturbed sites. These parameters may be influenced by the presence of polyxenous Ctenocephalides, Polygenis, and Adoratopsylla fleas co-infesting opossum in urban areas. These findings provide valuable insights into the ecoepidemiology of fleas, their relationships with host species, and the impact of environmental factors in a strategic Atlantic forest ecoregion.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The family Gripopterygidae occurs in the Austral Hemisphere and comprises about 330 species within 57 genera. About 110 species belonging to 28 genera are native to South America. Some are endemic to the Andean Region, while others reside in the Neotropical Region. In this latter region, Gripopterygidae has primarily been documented in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, inland areas, and specific regions in northeastern Argentina, southern Paraguay, and Uruguay. Our research involved examining specimens from diverse Brazilian locations and compiling data sourced from the Plecoptera literature of the Neotropical Region. In this study, we present a comprehensive list of 62 Gripopterygidae species across four genera documented in Neotropical Region: 1) Gripopteryx Pictet, comprising 18 described species; 2) Guaranyperla Froehlich, comprising three species; 3) Paragripopteryx Enderlein, which includes 15 species, and 4) Tupiperla Froehlich, with 26 species. Additionally, we have morphologically characterized a specimen of Gripopteryx elisae Illies collected in Santa Catarina State, Brazil. We provide detailed information about the life stages associated with each species, documented records by administrative and natural areas, and information about the institutions housing the type series of Neotropical gripopterygids.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Fish is an important food item in the diet of humans, whereas it is also a major source of exposure to toxic chemicals. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and mercury (Hg) are known to have hotspots of contamination across the coast of Pernambuco, Brazil. This study investigated organochlorines and Hg in muscle samples from respectively 17 and 14 individuals of the stingray Hypanus berthalutzae – a fishing resource used to prepare a traditional dish in the local cuisine. DDTs, HCHs and mirex were not detected in the samples. Mean concentrations of PCBs, CHLs and total Hg were 0.032, 0.004 and 60 ng g-1 wet weight (ww), respectively. Ecological and biological parameters are important factors in the bioaccumulation of pollutants in fish. Although the concentrations of POPs and Hg do not present a health risk to consumers in general, they may pose a health risk to certain groups such as children and people who eat H. berthalutzae daily. This paper is relevant for the conservation of an endemic stingray species widely consumed in northeastern Brazil and classified as vulnerable in terms of risk of extinction.

Abstract in English:

Abstract In Brazil, most of cereal production is concentrated in the Cerrado which is characterized by poor soils. Thus, the soil fertility management is important for suitable use of Cerrado’s soils. After 40 years of increasing use of Cerrado for agricultural purposes, this work aimed to evaluate the soil fertility of a representative area known as Triângulo Mineiro and Alto Paranaíba (TMAP) mesoregion. Different land uses from 126 farms were selected for soil sampling and assessed the following properties: pH; exchangeable Al3+, Ca2+, Mg2+; available P, K+, S, B, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn; soil organic matter (SOM); and cation exchange capacity (CEC) effective and potential at pH 7.0. Land uses improved the soil fertility properties compared to native Cerrado vegetation, except planted forests. The pH increased and Al3+ was neutralized, however, satisfactory contents of Ca2+ and Mg2+ were not reached. CEC is still considered low to medium, since SOM was not significantly increased. Available P, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu contents increased, being considered satisfactory. In general, our findings suggest that the nutrients can be considered adequate for crop production and sustainability. However, continuous monitoring for maintenance of soil fertility and adoption of best management practices are needed.

Abstract in English:

Abstract In this paper, we looked at the effect of mobility by students, post-doctorates and professors on science in Brazil. We analysed CAPES, CNPq, FAPESP and Incites data to examine the number of scholarships and their impact on posterior publishing. Decision trees, including the region of the country, length of stay by student and Professor, as well as institution abroad, were evaluated, along with logistic regressions. The number of incoming professionals to Brazil is still incipient. The number of undergrad students was not crucial in forming scientific ties, but the number of postgraduates (> 180 days) and professor stays (>90 days) was important. The highest impact factor of publications shows a greater probability of higher impact with more than six postgraduate students going to institutions in the global north region and professors staying for more than 90 days. Looking only at doctors and professors (Mobility after training), the country of most interest was the United States, followed by France and England, which are similar regarding professors. France had a greater emphasis on postdoctoral studies. Databases need to be improved to include factors such as gender and color/race as well as the origin of scholars from abroad.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Textile industries stand out as one of the main polluters of water resources, generating large amounts of liquid effluents with variable composition and intense coloration. The objective of this work is the integration of the reductive process using commercial steel wool, combined with oxidative processes, in the treatment of textile effluent. The effect of the variables of the reductive process were studied using a 32 factorial design. After 30 minutes, the reductive process allowed a reduction of 68% COD, 46% TOC, 62% true color and 72% of total phenols, but showed an increase in color apparent and turbidity, due to the iron species formed by the oxidation of steel wool during the process. With the combined process using sunlight, the reduction was 73% COD, 50% TOC, 97% phenols, 93% true color and 48% apparent color. With artificial light, the reduction was 94% COD, 63% TOC, 95% phenols, 98% true color and 65% apparent color. The evaluation of the acute toxicity against Daphnia magna indicated that after the proposed treatments, the effluent did not present toxicity or the toxicity was reduced. It is concluded that the combined process can be considered an efficient alternative for the treatment of textile effluent.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Edgar Morin is more than 100 years old and has produced numerous original ideas. Complex Thinking is his approach to complexity and took almost thirty years to be written. He developed it based on many other thinkers but chiefly, we argue, on Wiener’s Cybernetics, von Bertalanffy’s General System Theory and Shannon’s Information Theory. This article describes and discusses how those latter theories have been incorporated into Morin’s thought, especially in La Méthode, his magnum opus, and presents, in a comparative fashion, his pros and contras on each of them. In our conclusion, we discuss how some of Morin’s criticisms of the founding theories might be unjust and also present a summary of some judgmental appraisals of Complex Thinking.

Abstract in English:

Abstract In the last decades, antibiotic resistance has been considered a severe problem worldwide. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are molecules that have shown potential for the development of new drugs against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Nowadays, medicinal drug researchers use supervised learning methods to screen new peptides with antimicrobial potency to save time and resources. In this work, we consolidate a database with 15945 AMPs and 12535 non-AMPs taken as the base to train a pool of supervised learning models to recognize peptides with antimicrobial activity. Results show that the proposed tool (AmpClass) outperforms classical state-of-the-art prediction models and achieves similar results compared with deep learning models.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Accurate wind power prediction can effectively alleviate the pressure of the power system peak frequency regulation, and is more conducive to the economic dispatch of the power system. To enhance wind power forecasting accuracy, a hybrid approach for wind power interval prediction is proposes in this study. Firstly, an Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN) is applied to decompose the initial wind power sequence into multiple modes, and Variational Mode Decomposition is used to further decompose the high-frequency non-stationary components. Next, Fuzzy Entropy (FE) is utilized to assess the complexity of the post-decomposed Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs), and different forecasting methods are employed accordingly, the point predictions were obtained by linearly summing the component predictions.Additionally, an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA) is used to seek the optimal hyperparameters of the prediction algorithm. Finally, the prediction intervals are constructed using the point prediction results based on kernel density estimation (KDE). The root mean square errors (RMSE) of deterministic predictions are 2.8458 MW and 1.8605 MW, with uncertainty coverage rates of 95.83% and 97.92% at a 95% confidence level.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Effective freight transportation planning through different modes drives countries economic growth by ensuring the delivery of goods safely and sustainably. This article provides a systematic literature review focused on intermodal transport tactical planning, addressing logistical technical factors for efficient transportation modes management in cargo delivery. The methodology is based on the research questions definition, search process, and article selection criteria, exploring the network structures evolution to verify technical factors influencing network structures, including mode combinations, geographical distribution, and mathematical models’ decision variables and constraints. According to the research question proposed, the most relevant technical factors for intermodal planning network structures are flow cargo, transport modal activation, flow conservation, delivery time, and vehicle management, generally found in countries with extensive road infrastructure and a high modal integration capacity, as China, Europe, and USA. Considering the decision variables and constraints, flow conservation is a common element observed in intermodal transport mathematical models. Thus, a balance between transportation costs and transportation modes utilization was verified, and insights into the relation between technical logistics factors application and network structures for cargo delivery efficiency were revealed. Finally, the systematic literature review contributes to understanding the main intermodal transportation planning evolving landscape, offering valuable insights for future research and practical implementations.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Air contamination in confined environments can lead to severe health damage. Searching for effective and sustainable technologies that might bring quality to indoor air is necessary. Heterogeneous photocatalysis has been studied for its ability to oxidize, inactivating microorganisms in the air. In the present work, a reactor was assembled, where titanium dioxide (TiO2) P25 was incorporated into the inner face of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubes and vegetable sponges (Luffa sp.). Polyester Orthophthalic (PO) resin was used to fix the TiO2 onto the surfaces. Ultraviolet lamps (UVA) were used to activate the TiO2 catalyst to test the inactivation capacity of microorganisms, as they are economical and present high energy efficiency and long service life. The inactivation of microorganisms was evaluated in natural and artificially contaminated atmospheres. The photocatalytic reactor proved efficient in most tests in both atmospheres. In tests 1 and 2, no bacterial colony-forming units (CFUs) were found in the photocatalysis tube. In test 3, the average of 5 CFUs of fungi in the photocatalysis tube and 12.67 in the control tube was found, indicating inactivation. Therefore, this research is essential for presenting an alternative solution for indoor air treatment.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study offers a comprehensive systematic review on the removal of antibiotics in Constructed Wetlands (CWs), evaluating their efficacy as an alternative to conventional wastewater treatment methods. Data from 82 articles were analyzed, focusing on removal rates, antibiotic types, and system configurations, including scale, vegetation, sediment, flow, hydraulic retention time (HRT), and hydraulic loading rate (HLR). The findings indicate that full-scale CWs, particularly those utilizing vegetation like Cyperus alternifolius L. and materials such as shells, zeolites, medicinal stone, and ceramics, achieved removal rates exceeding 90% for various antibiotics. The study underscores the importance of optimizing both anaerobic and aerobic conditions to enhance removal efficiency, noting that aerobic environments promote oxidative processes effective for β-lactams, while anaerobic environments facilitate reduction processes beneficial for sulfonamides. Hybrid systems combining these zones demonstrated maximal removal efficiency. This review advances the understanding of antibiotic removal in CWs, presenting them as a viable, sustainable solution to mitigate environmental impacts, preserve water quality, and protect public health. Further research is recommended to explore the impact of root types and bed configurations on removal efficiency.

Abstract in English:

Abstract A new approach in the finite difference framework is developed, which consists of three steps: choosing the dimension of the local approximation subspace, constructing a vector basis for this subspace, and determining the coefficients of the linear combination. New schemes were developed to form the basis of the local approximation subspace, which were derived by approximating only the k2u term of the Helmholtz equation. The construction of a basis of the local approximation subspace allows the new approach to be able to represent any finite difference scheme that belongs to this subspace. The new method is both consistent and capable of minimizing the dispersion relation for all stencils in all dimensions. In the one-dimensional case and 3-point stencil, pollution error is eliminated. In the two-dimensional (2D) case and 5-point stencil, the Complete Centered Finite Difference Method presents a dispersion relation equivalent to Galerkin/Least-Squares Finite Element Method. In the 2D case and 9-point stencil, two versions were developed using two different bases for the local approximation space. Both versions are equivalent and exhibit a dispersion relation similar to Quasi Stabilized Finite Element Method. Additionally, the dispersion analysis revealed a connection between the coefficients of the linear system and the stencil symmetry.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Fixed-bed columns are a well-established water purification technology. Several models have been constructed over the decades to scale up and predict the breakthrough curve of an adsorption column varying the flow rate, length, and initial concentration of solute. In this work, we proposed using an emerging computational approach of a physic-informed neural network (PINN) that uses artificial intelligence to solve the partial differential equation model of adsorption. The effectiveness of this approach is compared with finite-volume methods and experimental data. We also couple the PINN with a sampling importance resampling particle filter, a Bayesian technique that allows the filter and estimate states of the process, quantifying uncertainties of experimental measurements. The results shows physic-informed neural network capability in solving the proposed model and its uses as an evolution model for sequential estimation.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Innovation affects a nation’s sovereignty. In this paper, we look at Science and Technology indicators as proxies for Innovation using databases such as WIPO, INPI, Sucupira and Scival, and including patents registered, academic-corporate collaborations, patents citing Brazilian articles (Number of patents and documents) and technical production in Brazilian higher education institutions. We also look at two major previously state-owned companies (Embraer and Petrobras) to see their patenting and citation behaviour compared to other companies worldwide. Brazilian science is a citation basis for patenting in companies and universities worldwide, but Brazil does not use its own publications to support patent proposals. While USP is the major cited university, Unicamp has more patents. Academic-corporate collaboration exists between Brazilian and foreign universities, especially in the US and Europe. The Brazilian companies show low patenting behaviour, but Embraer has a higher impact than Petrobras. As a consequence of the dynamics of science and technology, we suggest that the analyses of the innovation processes could focus on the generation of startups and, in particular, academic spin-offs.