ABSTRACT Tausch’s goat grass (Aegilops tauschii Coss.) is a troublesome and widespread weed that poses a significant challenge in winter wheat fields. Understanding the germination biology of Tausch’s goat grass is crucial for predicting its potential distribution area. To better understand its germination and emergence ecology, this study evaluated the effects of various environmental factors on seed germination and seedling emergence in laboratory and greenhouse experiments. Seed germinations were settled across a range of constant temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 27 °C), and optimal germination rates were observed at 5, 15, 20, and 25 °C. The light and pH had no discernible effect on germination. Germination in this study was inhibited at osmotic potentials ranging from 0 to -0.7 MPa. The seedling emergence rate was highest (100%) when seeds were not buried (depth of 0 cm), emergence gradually declined while the depth of burial increased, no seedlings emerge at the depth of 6 cm. Those implied that deep plowing could effectively limit germination and emergence of this species. This study provides valuable insights into the germination conditions of Tausch’s goat grass and lays the groundwork for scientific prediction and control measures.

Resumo Introdução: A OMS aponta que infecções por enteroparasitos podem afetar ~3,5 bilhões de pessoas globalmente. Pacientes em hemodiálise (HD) podem ser mais suscetíveis a infecções por patógenos oportunistas devido à função imunológica prejudicada. Avaliamos a infecção por enteroparasitos em pacientes em HD de dois centros de diálise e um grupo controle Métodos: Amostras fecais foram processadas pelas técnicas de Hoffmann, Pons&Janner, Ritchie, Willis e Rugai. Incluímos pacientes com insuficiência renal, de dois centros de diálise, em HD por mais de três meses. O grupo controle consistiu em familiares dos pacientes sem DRC evidente. PCR TaqMan e PCR Multiplex em tempo real foram realizadas para detecção de Cryptosporidium spp. e C. parvum e para diferenciar o complexo Entamoeba (E.) histolytica/E. dispar, respectivamente Resultados: 97 pacientes em HD e 42 controles foram incluídos no estudo. Cinquenta (51,5%) amostras fecais do grupo HD foram positivas para enteroparasitos, assim como 26 (61,9%) do grupo controle (P = 0,260). S. stercoralis foi o único helminto detectado, presente apenas nos pacientes em HD. A coproscopia detectou sete amostras positivas para o complexo E. histolytica/E. dispar, três de pacientes em HD e quatro controles: através da PCR, todas as amostras foram positivas para E. dispar não patogênica. As lâminas de esfregaço fecal coradas com safranina foram todas negativas para Cryptosporidium spp. Entretanto, através da PCR, observou-se amplificação para Crypstosporidium spp. em seis amostras, todas de pacientes em HD. Duas das espécies foram classificadas como C. hominis por PCR-RFLP Conclusões: A infecção por enteroparasitos, detectada por técnicas tradicionais, não foi mais prevalente em pacientes em HD, mas o S. stercoralis foi encontrado exclusivamente entre eles. Vale ressaltar que a infecção por Cryptosporidium spp., que também afetou somente pacientes em HD, pôde ser detectada somente por técnicas de biologia molecular. Introdução 35 3 5 ~3, globalmente (HD prejudicada Métodos Hoffmann PonsJanner Pons Janner Pons&Janner Ritchie Rugai renal meses evidente spp C E (E. histolyticaE histolytica histolytica/E Resultados 9 4 estudo 51,5% 515 51 (51,5% 2 61,9% 619 61 (61,9% P 0,260. 0260 0,260 . 0 260 0,260) S detectado patogênica Entretanto observouse observou se PCRRFLP RFLP Conclusões tradicionais eles molecular ~3 (E 51,5 (51,5 61,9 6 (61,9 026 0,26 ~ 51, (51, 61, (61, 02 0,2 (51 (61 0, (5 (6 (

Abstract Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that infection by enteroparasites can affect ~3.5 billion people around the world. Hemodialysis (HD) patients may be more susceptible to infections by opportunistic pathogens due to impaired immune function. We evaluated enteroparasite infection in a sample of HD-patients from two dialysis centers and in a control group. Methods: Fecal samples were processed using the Hoffmann-Pons-Janner, Ritchie, Willis, and Rugai techniques. Patients with kidney failure from two dialysis centers undergoing HD for more than 3 months were included. The control group consisted of relatives of the patients without overt CKD. The TaqMan PCR and multiplex real-time PCR were carried out for detection of Cryptosporidium spp. and C. parvum and to differentiate the Entamoeba (E.) histolytica/E. dispar complex, respectively Results: A total of 97 HD patients and 42 controls were enrolled in the study. Fifty (51.5%) fecal samples from the HD group were positive for enteroparasites, as were 26 (61.9%) from the control group (P = 0.260). S. stercoralis was the single helminth detected and was only present in HD-patients. Coproscopy detected seven positive samples for the E. histolytica/E. dispar complex, three from HD patients and four from controls: by PCR, all samples were positive for the non-pathogenic E. dispar. Safranin-stained fecal smear slides were all negative for Cryptosporidium spp. However, by PCR, amplification for Crypstosporidium spp. was seen in six samples, all from the HD patients. Two of the species were classified as C. hominis by PCR-RFLP Conclusions: Enteroparasite infection as detected by traditional techniques were not more prevalent in HD patients, but S. stercoralis was only found in these patients. It is noteworthy that Cryptosporidium spp. infection, also affecting only HD patients, could only be detected by molecular biology techniques. Introduction WHO (WHO 35 5 ~3. world (HD function HDpatients Methods HoffmannPonsJanner, HoffmannPonsJanner Hoffmann Pons Janner, Janner Hoffmann-Pons-Janner Ritchie Willis included CKD realtime real time spp C E (E. histolyticaE histolytica histolytica/E complex Results 9 4 study 51.5% 515 51 (51.5% 2 61.9% 619 61 (61.9% P 0.260. 0260 0.260 . 0 260 0.260) S HDpatients. nonpathogenic non pathogenic Safraninstained Safranin stained However PCRRFLP RFLP Conclusions ~3 (E 51.5 (51.5 61.9 6 (61.9 026 0.26 ~ 51. (51. 61. (61. 02 0.2 (51 (61 0. (5 (6 (

RESUMEN La utilización de los entornos virtuales de aprendizaje en el proceso docente de la carrera Ingeniería en Bioinformática es una de las prioridades en la actualidad en la Universidad de las Ciencias Informáticas. La caracterización de los procesos formativos en varias disciplinas en el uso de las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones, arrojó uno de los resultados del proyecto de investigación “Estrategia didáctica de innovación que potencie la utilización de los entornos virtuales de aprendizaje en el montaje de las asignaturas en la carrera de Ingeniería en Bioinformática ”, en el que se detectó inconsistencia en el uso del entorno virtual de aprendizaje, manifestada en la escasa preparación de docentes y en la carencia de la identificación de los nodos integradores que permiten darle un enfoque a la enseñanza de la Química que sirven de base a otras disciplinas de la carrera como la Biología y la Bioinformática. El objetivo de este trabajo fue diseñar un sistema de acciones que permitan la preparación de los profesores en los contenidos químicos, en función de los procesos formativos de la carrera de Ingeniería en Bioinformática. Los métodos que se utilizaron fueron: el analítico sintético, el histórico lógico, el análisis documental, la observación y la entrevista, además, se utilizaron algunas herramientas informáticas. Los resultados alcanzados se concretaron en un conjunto de acciones para la preparación de los profesores de la carrera en los contenidos químicos y el uso de las bases de datos biológicas, de gran actualidad en el proceso docente.

ABSTRACT The use of virtual learning environments in the teaching process of the Bioinformatics Engineering career is one of the current priorities at the University of Informatics Sciences. The characterization of the formative processes in several disciplines in the use of Information and Communication Technologies, showed one of the results of the research project “Didactic strategy of innovation that enhances the use of virtual learning environments in the assembly of subjects in the career of Bioinformatics Engineering”, in which inconsistency was detected in the use of the virtual learning environment, manifested in the poor preparation of teachers and in the lack of identification of the integrating nodes that allow giving an approach to the teaching of Chemistry that serve as a basis for other disciplines of the career such as Biology and Bioinformatics. The objective of this work was to design a system of actions that allow the preparation of teachers in chemical contents, according to the formative processes of the Bioinformatics Engineering career. The methods used were: synthetic analytical, historical-logical, documentary analysis, observation and interview, and some computer tools were also used. The results achieved resulted in a set of actions for the preparation of the professors of the career in chemical contents.

RESUMEN En este trabajo presentamos una investigación basada en diseño desarrollada con una cohorte de un profesorado de biología en la asignatura Biología Humana. Diseñamos una propuesta que integró al videojuego ‘Plague Inc: Evolved’ para abordar la pandemia COVID 19 como una cuestión sociocientífica. A partir de ello nos propusimos estudiar el desarrollo de prácticas científicas en relación con la dinámica de la transmisión de infecciones virales y las ideas del estudiantado (profesorado en formación) sobre la integración de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) en la enseñanza de las ciencias, específicamente sobre su potencial para el desarrollo de espacios argumentativos y dialógicos. Se resaltan los cambios y avances durante la implementación de la propuesta didáctica implementada. A través de un análisis cualitativo presentamos discusiones y reflexiones teóricas al respecto del desarrollo de las prácticas científicas en la formación docente.

RESUMO Neste artigo apresentamos uma investigação baseada em design desenvolvida com uma coorte de professores de biologia da disciplina Biologia Humana. Concebemos uma proposta que integrou o videojogo ‘Plague Inc: Evolved’ para trabalhar a pandemia COVID 19 como uma questão sociocientífica, a partir da qual nos propusemos estudar o desenvolvimento de práticas científicas relacionadas com as dinâmicas de transmissão de infecções virais e o pensamento dos alunos (professores em formação inicial) acerca da integração das Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TIC) no ensino das ciências, especificamente sobre o seu potencial para o desenvolvimento de espaços argumentativos e dialógicos. Recorrendo a uma análise qualitativa, apresentamos discussões e reflexões teóricas sobre o desenvolvimento de práticas científicas na formação de professores, destacando as mudanças e avanços ocorridos durante a implementação de uma proposta didática.

ABSTRACT In this paper, we present a design-based research developed with a cohort of preservice biology teachers in the subject of Human Biology. We designed a proposal that integrated the video game ‘Plague Inc: Evolved’ to address the COVID-19 pandemic as a socio-scientific issue. In this context, we studied the development of scientific practices concerning the dynamics of the transmission of viral infections and the ideas of students (preservice teachers) about the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in science teaching, specifically on its potential for the development of argumentative and dialogical environments. The changes and progress made during the implementation of the didactic proposal are highlighted. Through a qualitative analysis, we present discussions and theoretical reflections on the development of scientific practices in teacher training.

Abstract Sperm-associated antigen 9 (SPAG9) is a member of cancer-testis antigen, having characteristics of a scaffold protein, which is involved in the c-Jun N-terminal kinase JNK signaling pathway, suggesting its key involvement in different physiological processes, such as survival, apoptosis, tumorigenesis, and cell proliferation. We identified two families (A and B) having multisystem features like coarse facial features, albinism, cataracts, skeletal abnormalities, and developmental delay. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) in families A and B revealed a homozygous frameshift variant (c.903del; p.Phe301Leufs*2) in the SPAG9 gene. Sanger sequencing of both families revealed perfect segregation of the identified variant in all family members. 3D protein modeling revealed substantial changes in the protein’s secondary structure. Furthermore, RT-qPCR revealed a substantial reduction of SPAG9 gene expression at the mRNA level in the affected individuals of both families, thus supporting the pathogenic nature of the identified variant. For the first time in the literature, biallelic SPAG9 gene variation was linked to multisystem-exhibiting features like coarse facial features, albinism, cataracts, skeletal abnormalities, and developmental delay. Thus, this data supports the notion that SPAG9 plays an important role in a multisystemic disorder in humans.

Abstract Centromochlus heckelii has the lowest diploid chromosome number (2n = 46) and the only described heteromorphic sex chromosome system in Auchenipteridae. This study presents a population of C. heckelii from the Central Amazon basin with subtle variations in the karyotype composition and a variant W chromosome with distinct morphology and increased C-positive heterochromatin content. In this population, the W chromosome is subtelocentric, whereas the only previous study on C. heckelii reported a metacentric W chromosome. Constitutive heterochromatin (CH) and accumulation of microsatellite motifs have significantly contributed to this W chromosome enlargement. Notably, this population exhibits numerous interstitial telomeric sites (ITSs). Some of these ITSs might represent genuine chromosomal fusion points due to the reduced 2n; however, additional mechanisms, such as chromosomal inversions, translocations, transpositions, or association with satellite DNA, are likely responsible for this unusual pattern. The 18S rDNA sites were found in both the Z and W chromosomes of all individuals. However, two individuals exhibited an additional 18S rDNA site in a single homologous of the chromosome pair 20, characterizing an intrapopulation polymorphism. The 5S rDNA sites were found in two chromosome pairs, distinguishing this population from other Centromochlinae species and further supporting it as one of the most efficient cytotaxonomic markers within the subfamily.

Haemosporida research started in the 19th century with the description of Plasmodium and other related parasites infecting mammals and birds. Here, we highlight the pioneering contributions of Henrique Aragão and Arthur Neiva in describing the first two Plasmodium species in lizards from the New World, Plasmodium diploglossi and Plasmodium tropiduri, published in the first printed issue of Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz in April 1909. We use these discoveries as a background to explore some historical and taxonomic aspects of Plasmodium species infecting reptiles, with a particular emphasis on the advancements made over the past 115 years in the Neotropics. Our review underscores the complexities and persistent challenges in the taxonomic classification of reptile haemosporidians and discusses some scientific advances in the field that improved our understanding of the biology and evolution of these parasites.

Abstract Glioma brain tumors have similar textural patterns to other tumors, making their detection and segmentation a challenging process. The approach of the Modified Tumor Detection System (MTDS) is presented in this study to identify and categorize brain images of gliomas from images of healthy brains. The Spatial Gabor Transform (SGT), feature calculations, and deep learning structure comprise the training work flow of the suggested MTDS technique. The features are computed from the glioma brain image dataset images and the normal brain image dataset images and these features are fed into the classification architecture. In this paper, the proposed IVGG architecture is derived from the existing Visual Geometry Group (VGG) architecture to improve the detection rate of the proposed system and to decrease the computational time complexity. The testing work flow of the proposed system is also consist of SGT, feature computation and the IVGG architecture to produce the classification result of the source brain images into either normal or glioma. Furthermore, the Morphological Segmentation technique has been used to find the tumor locations in this glioma image. Two separate brain imaging datasets have been used in this study to evaluate and validate the suggested MTDS's performance efficiency. BRATS Imaging 2020 (BI20) and Kaggle Brain Imaging (KBI) are the datasets. Analysis of the performance efficiency has been done in relation to the Jaccard index, recall, precision, and detection rate.

Abstract This work reports a real-time PCR assay to specifically detect the presence of gluten in complex food matrices and to carry out an in-silico prospection of primers used in scientific research. The primers used were “tritprglut” and “Planta 18S” (reference gene), which had mean quantification cycle values (Cq) of 34.30 and 16.98, respectively. The real-time PCR protocol was validated in different meats (beef, chicken, pork, horse and lamb) with an average Cq of 25.69. Tests to verify fraud in industrialized foods were carried out with the following products: cereal bars, chocolate, crackers and two types of snacks. All foods complied with the information contained on the label, except for the cereal bar that was identified as “may contain gluten” and had a “high content” concentration (1,925 mg/kg). The LD value was 36 cycles and the LQ was 60 mg/kg, being within the “low content” classification range. The in-silico tests were performed using two software, MFE and NETprimer, and the content parameters GC, Tm (°C), ∆G (kcal/mol), dimer formation and hairpins. The “Wheat-w-Gliadin” primer showed the best average parameters: size= 24 bp; GC= 44%; Tm = 62.5 °C; ∆G= -32.25 kcal/mol; no dimer or hairpin formation; and a maximum primer rating (100). There were differences in results between the software used. The results highlight the potential of the real-time PCR technique in detecting gluten and/or allergens in foods with a complex matrix, such as chocolate and cereal bars tested in this study, proving to be sensitive and robust to detect the presence of potentially high gluten concentrations. harmful for celiac consumers.

Abstract To ensure the quality of the energy in distribution networks, configurations of voltage regulators (VRs) and Shunt Capacitor Banks (BCshunts) are traditionally used along the feeders. Series Capacitors Bank (BCseries) along the feeders can also help to improve the power quality. In this paper, a strategy is proposed based on a mathematical formulation for an optimization problem where the aim is to allocate and size BCshunts and VRs (as traditionally implemented in the electricity sector) together with BCseries in distribution networks. These devices are allocated using Genetic Algorithm together with Multiperiod Optimal Power Flow. Using the proposed strategy, it is analyzed the network performance by studying: (i) the allocation of VRs and BCshunts simultaneously, and (ii) the allocation of VRs, BCshunts and BCseries simultaneously. The objective function is based on the minimization of active power loss costs, penalties for voltage violations, and equipment costs. Results are presented for a 90-bus radial distribution system which show that the use of BCseries is suitable for feeders with abrupt load variations, and that this approach competes positively with the simultaneous allocation of VR and BCshunt devices, with shorter investment amortization times and improved quality indices.

Abstract This study aimed to develop a bromelain-based gel and evaluate its effects in a ligature-induced periodontitis model in rats. The bromelain-based gel was formulated in two concentrations (1% and 10%). Ten animals were used per group: Control, Periodontitis, Periodontitis + Neutral Gel, Periodontitis + 1% Bromelain Gel, Periodontitis + 10% Bromelain Gel and Periodontitis + 2% Chlorhexidine Gel. The clinical parameters of tooth mobility (TM), gingival bleeding index (GBI) and probing pocket depth (PPD) were evaluated and, after euthanasia, gingival and liver tissue were collected by biopsy for biochemical evaluation of myeloperoxidase (MPO), malonaldehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and from the jaws for morphometric analysis of alveolar bone height. The clinical parameters of MT, GBI and PPD of the groups treated with bromelain gel showed a significant reduction (MT = 67.04%, GBI = 67.72% and PPD = 41.22%) compared to the group with periodontitis. The results for MPO dosage in the gingival tissue showed statistically significant differences between the groups when compared to the group with periodontitis, MDA and GSH showed promising results in the groups treated with gels in the dosages of gingival and liver tissue. The results for ABL showed significant differences when compared to the groups that received gel treatment. Therefore, the bromelain orabase gel evaluated in periodontitis showed a positive response for the following parameters TM, GBI and PPD, MPO, MDA and ABL of the oral tissues, preventing alveolar bone resorption caused by the disease, highlighting the potential as an adjuvant treatment of periodontitis, in addition to reducing the systemic effects on the liver tissue.

Abstract Heat treatment used in milk powder processing cannot always inactivate spore-forming microorganisms. Toxin deterioration and production by some species are significant concerns for the dairy industry, making the identification of these microorganisms essential for solving problems with the quality of the products. Given this scenario, this study sought to quantify and identify the predominant species in milk powder, aiming to know the isolated genetic varieties. Fourteen samples were analyzed for aerobic/anaerobic, mesophilic, and thermophilic bacterial spore presence, totaling 52 analyses. Spore contamination was verified in all samples analyzed, and the thermophilic spores had the highest contamination levels. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 47 isolates: Weizmannia coagulans (21%), Anoxybacillus flavithermus (5.3%), Clostridium butyricum (5.3%), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (2.6%), Geobacillus stearothermophilus (2.6%), Clostridium pabulibutyricum (2.6%), Clostridium sporosphaeroides (2.6%), Bacillus licheniformis (2.6%), Bacillus sp. (34%), Geobacillus sp. (15.8%), and Clostridium sp. (5.3%). The results indicate the need to establish control measures to improve the hygiene and processing conditions of powdered milk, thereby ensuring product quality and consumer safety.

Abstract In the present study, a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach is being explored to remove the harmful dye Congo red from synthetic wastewater, using an equatorial strain of Rhodococcus biphenylivorans. The immobilized cells’ Congo red-decolorizing activity in calcium alginate showed an increase of 217% compared to the free cells. By improving the alginate concentration to 4% (w/v), the bead diameter to 3 mm and using 50 beads, a 67% decrease in the time required for complete decolorization was accomplished. Both free and immobilized cells followed first-order kinetics for the elimination of Congo red, with immobilized cells displaying a decolorization rate 3.2 times greater than that of free cells, resulting in an 84% reduction in half-life. The immobilized cells displayed the capability to remove 0.10 g/L Congo red without any significant decline in their efficiency for up to twelve cycles, offering an economic advantage due to their reusability. Examining the decolorized products of Congo red showed no hindrance in the germination of Triticum aestivum and Vigna radiata, indicating the effective removal of all toxic components from the original dye via the biological method. Therefore, this strain has significant potential as a biological agent to eliminate wastewater contaminated with Congo red efficiently.

Abstract Z. kleinii is an endemic species in Brazil. No reports of popular use, regarding its chemical composition or biological activities were reported to date. The study aimed to investigated the chemical composition of the essential oil of Zanthoxylum kleinii leaves and evaluate its antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. The essential oil was extracted from fresh leaves by hydrodistillation method, using a Clevenger apparatus, having a yield of 0.12% (v/m) volume of essential oil in relation to the amount of plant material. Quantitative analysis was performed by GC-MS and the results showed that the essential oil contains 30 compounds. The major compounds are monoterpene hydrocarbons, including β-phellandrene (37.80%), α-pinene (13.32%) and myrcene (10.05%). The essential oil showed no antibacterial activity against the strains tested (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis and S. aureus).

Abstract In the production of kale, nitrogen is one of the nutrients that the plant needs in greater quantity. Its application must be divided throughout the cycle, due to the loss by leaching. The objective of the research was to evaluate the effect of splitting organic fertilizers in topdressing on the production of kale. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with four replications, with seven treatments being evaluated in a 2 x 3 + 1 factorial scheme, the first factor was the fertilizers (castor bean cake and bokashi) and the second the application intervals (7; 14 and 21 days), in addition to the control without topdressing fertilization. The amount of each fertilizer was calculated to provide the same dose of N (40 kg ha-1) every 21 days. The following characteristics were evaluated: plant height (PH), stem diameter (SD), number of leaves per plant (NLP), leaf fresh matter mass (LFMM), leaf length at the beginning (LLB), middle (LLMe) and end (LLE) of the cycle and “SPAD” index. There was no interaction between the factors, for any characteristic evaluated. For all traits, the values observed in control was lower than treatments with topdressing. The increases of treatments of factorial in relation to the control were 37.8% (plant height); 31.8% (SD); 157.1% (NLP); 213.5% (MLFMM); 7.6% (LLB); 80.2% (LLMe) and 126.6% for the “SPAD” index. It is recommended to use castor bean cake and split it every 21 days as it results in less labor for application.