Plants of the genus Crotalaria are known for their antagonistic effect against nematodes. It has been found that pyrrolizidine alkaloids are the main metabolites involved in such antagonistic activity. Aiming at obtaining extracts with higher alkaloid content and enhanced potential for use as bionematicides, we investigated the chemical composition and nematicidal activity of extracts obtained from Crotalaria juncea and Crotalaria ochroleuca cultivated in vitro through micropropagation. Remarkably, extracts from the callus of C. ochroleuca (lethal concentration of 95% (LC95) = 157.7 μg mL-1) and C. juncea (LC95 = 189.9 μg mL-1) exhibited high toxicity against Meloidogyne javanica. The ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight with high mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MSE) analysis revealed the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, flavones, flavone glycosides, and isoflavones. These findings highlight the potential of tissue culture to obtain extracts from Crotalaria species compared to conventionally cultivated plants and provide a higher concentration of metabolites with nematicidal effects, paving the way for sustainable agriculture.

Despite the widespread application of electrospun membranes across various scientific fields, there remains a need for a deeper understanding of the molecular interactions between polymers and other compounds in precursor solutions for electrospinning. This study evaluates the molecular conformations of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with different degrees of hydrolysis (PVA87 and PVA99) and high molar mass, crosslinked with citric acid (CA), using molecular modeling. The solution properties, including rheology and conductivity, were compared to obtain electrospun nanofibers. Additionally, Pluronic-F127® (F127) was incorporated into the PVA/CA system for advanced applications. The molecular modeling results indicate that the degree of hydrolysis affects the intermolecular forces of PVA and the effective binding of CA to the polymer chain. The interactions within the PVA/CA/F127 system vary with the degree of hydrolysis. The high viscosity of PVA99, due to interand intramolecular bonds, negatively impacts fiber morphology and formation. Thermal and Raman analyses confirmed crosslinking. Under the conditions used, the PVA99/CA/F127 system is unsuitable for electrospinning. In contrast, the electrospinning and crosslinking of PVA87/CA/F127 with high molar mass yielded better results, enhancing the potential of these nanofibers for drug delivery applications.

This study details the preparation, antileishmanial assay, and in silico analysis of twenty 2-hydroxy-3-(1,2,3-triazolyl)propyl vanillin derivatives. These compounds were synthesized in three steps and evaluated against Leishmania infantum, Leishmania amazonensis, and Leishmania braziliensis promastigotes. Compounds 3s and 3t were the most effective, showing good activity against all Leishmania species tested. Molecular docking indicated that all compounds bind favorably to the sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51) enzyme from L. infantum. ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity) analysis indicated good oral bioavailability, non blood-brain barrier penetration, and high gastrointestinal absorption. Posaconazole and compounds 3e, 3s, and 3t remained stable in the CYP51 binding region during 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Root mean square deviation (RMSD) and root mean square fluctuations (RMSF) analyses from the MD trajectory revealed significant conformational fluctuations of the CYP51 N-terminal, suggesting occasional expulsion of 3e, potentially explaining its higher IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) values. Pairwise decomposition analyses from molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) calculations highlighted the importance of hydrophobic residues in interacting with the synthesized derivatives.

Brazilian Savanna biodiversity is abundant in native fruits with nutritional and sensory properties with potential technological applications. However, the information available regarding the proprieties of Brazilian native fruits is still limited. This study aimed to analyze the metabolic profile of Brosimum gaudichaudii fruits (BGF) using metabolomics approaches, besides its physicochemical and nutritional proprieties. BGF exhibited protein content at least two times higher than other native fruits. Fifty-five metabolites were identified by the metabolomics approaches, mainly fatty acids (n = 22), carbohydrates (n = 13), organic acids (n = 6), and polyphenols (n = 5). The most abundant constituents were D-fructose (42.97%) for sugars, L-asparagine (6.47%) for amino acids, succinic acid (44.11%) for organic acids, and linolenic acid (3.04%) for fatty acids. Highlighted phytochemicals included chlorogenic acid, α-amyrin, and γ-tocopherol. Additionally, this study revealed that BGF is a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber and an excellent source of vitamin A. Future studies providing nutritional information and suggesting consumption methods and potential industrial applications are essential to familiarize consumers with these foods. Additionally, clarifying the appropriate planting and harvesting seasons can revive traditional practices, especially for native fruits like BGF.

ABSTRACT Optic neuritis is an important cause of unilateral and acute visual loss in young adults, but other differential diagnoses should be considered, especially when the disease has an atypical presentation. This report presents the case of a young woman with reduced visual acuity in her right eye, associated with optic disc edema and a relative afferent pupillary defect, that was initially misdiagnosed as optic neuritis and subsequently found to have paracentral acute middle maculopathy, possibly secondary to subtle impending central retinal vein occlusion. This case emphasizes the need to remember that retinal vascular diseases can occasionally mimic optic neuritis. Detailed anamnesis and ophthalmic examination can avoid unnecessary interventions.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the total concentration and bioaccessible fractions of Ba, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Pb, V and Zn in berry fruits and analyze the influence of different cultivars and growing conditions on the obtained results. The variations in bioaccessible concentrations were from 7.7-30, 17-29, 22-50, 1.8-96, 22-33 and 20-51% of the total concentration, for Ba, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn, respectively. Copper showed greater bioaccessibility in blackberry and blueberry. For Fe, bioaccessibility was observed in all strawberries and blueberries and in some blackberries. Zinc presented higher bioaccessible fractions in strawberries. For V, only the sample Blackberry 124 showed bioaccessible concentration, (11% of the total concentration). Regarding the different forms of cultivation, the strawberries that received radiation from the red and white lamps presented a higher production of fruit compared to the other systems, however, in relation to the absorption of nutrients, a small variation was observed between the fruits.

We report the electrochemical potential of conductive filaments produced with recycled polylactic acid (rPLA) alongside a mixture of graphite (Gpt) and/or carbon black (CB) and castor oil to create an electrode ready-to-use. Additively-manufactured electrodes (AMEs) were compared with commercial-conductive filament composed of PLA and CB. The Gpt-CB-rPLA and CB-rPLA sensors showed lower charge-transfer resistance (Rct) and a greater heterogenous rate constant, k0, (Rct= 1040 ± 50 Ω and 1810 ± 30 Ω and k0= 6.91 (± 0.58) × 103 and 5.31 (± 0.40) × 103 cm s-1, respectively) compared to the sensor from the commercial filament (Rct = 9620 ± 280 Ω and k0 = 3.62 (± 0.38) ×10-3 cm s-1). The electrochemical response of [Fe(CN6)]3-/4- displayed a peak-to-peak separation of 180 ± 8 mV (Gpt-CB-rPLA) and 240 ± 6 mV (CB-rPLA) compared to commercial AME (740 ±10 mV), without any surface treatment. The filaments were used to create a 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) detection platform with linear range of 5-20 and 5-100 µmol L-1 for Gpt-CB-rPLA and CB-rPLA, respectively. The collector-detector device was applied for the analysis of a blast simulation. Finally, it is worth noting that the results obtained are without electrode treatment/activation, indicating that the rough surface of the additively manufactured electrode is an additional feature of the device for collecting explosive residues, simply by rubbing the additively manufactured platform on different surfaces in crime scenarios.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS) has emerged as a promising technique for the management of large and complex kidney stones, potentially offering advantages over traditional Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This study aims to evaluate best practices, outcomes, and future perspectives associated with ECIRS. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted from 2008 to 2024, using MESH terms and the following key words: "ECIRS" and "Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery" The search yielded 157 articles, including retrospective cohort studies, two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and four meta-analyses comparing ECIRS with PCNL. Most important findings were summarized regarding indications, patient positioning, kidney access, tract size, surgical outcomes, and complications. Results: ECIRS demonstrated higher stone-free rate, lower complication rate, and a reduced need for multiple procedures compared to traditional PCNL. Additionally, ECIRS has the potential to integrate new technologies to further enhance outcomes. Conclusion: ECIRS demonstrates significant advantages in the management of large kidney stones. Future research should focus on well-designed RCTs to provide robust evidence of its efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, potentially establishing ECIRS as the first option treatment for complex kidney stones.

RESUMO O objetivo foi testar a metodologia IRPE, para avaliar o efeito do pastejo bovino em área sob processo de restauração ecológica. O experimento foi instalado em janeiro/2017, com dois tratamentos (T1: sem gado e T2: com gado), onde, mudas de sete espécies nativas foram plantadas em linha. Após quatro anos, o pastejo em baixa lotação reduziu a biomassa de gramíneas em 77%/ano, não afetando a regeneração natural e possibilitando a sobrevivência (T1 = 61% e T2 = 47%) e o desenvolvimento (crescimento em altura) das mudas de espécies nativas (T1 = 34 cm/ano e T2 = 22 cm/ano), ambas às taxas sem diferença significativa entre os tratamentos. A presença dos bovinos aumentou o quantitativo de nutrientes químicos no escoamento superficial, sobretudo nos períodos de maior pluviosidade, contudo os valores se apresentaram de acordo com a legislação brasileira de qualidade de água. A partir da análise dos resultados concluiu-se que a aplicação da metodologia do IRPE foi bem-sucedida, sendo possível concluir que as gramíneas, sob manejo adequado de pastoreio protegeram o solo do processo erosivo e os bovinos ao reduzirem a biomassa vegetal diminuiu a probabilidade de ocorrência de incêndios e os gastos com aceiros e roçagem.

ABSTRACT The objective was to test the IRPE methodology to evaluate the effect of cattle grazing in an area undergoing ecological restoration. The experiment started in January/2017, with two treatments (T1: without cattle and T2: with cattle), where seedlings of seven native species were planted in a row. After four years, low stocking grazing reduced grass biomass by 77%/year, not affecting natural regeneration and allowing survival (T1 = 61% and T2 = 47%) and the development (height growth) of seedlings of native species (T1 = 34 cm/year and T2 = 22 cm/year), both at rates with no significant difference between treatments. The presence of cattle increased the amount of chemical nutrients in the surface runoff, especially in periods of greater rainfall, however the values were presented in accordance with the Brazilian directive on water quality. From the analysis of results it was observed that the application of the IRPE methodology was successful, being possible to conclude that the grasses, under adequate grazing management, protected the soil from erosive process and the cattle, when reducing the vegetal biomass, reduced the probability of fire occurrence and expenses with firebreaks and clearing.

ABSTRACT Background: Success rates in endourological procedures, notably percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and ureteroscopy (URS), have demonstrated suboptimal outcomes, leading to more reinterventions and radiation exposure. Recently, the use of intraoperative computed tomography (ICT) scans has been hypothesized as a promising solution for improving outcomes in endourology procedures. With this considered, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis encompassing all available studies that evaluate the impact of the use of intraoperative CT scans on surgical outcomes compared to conventional fluoroscopic-guided procedures. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Multiple databases were systematically searched up to December of 2023. This study aimed to directly compare the use of an ICT scan with the standard non-ICT-guided procedure. The primary endpoint of interest was success rate, and the secondary endpoints were complications and reintervention rates, while radiation exposure was also evaluated. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed following Cochrane recommendations. Data was presented as an Odds ratio with 95%CI across trials and a random-effects model was selected for pooling of data. Results: A comprehensive search yielded 533 studies, resulting in the selection of 3 cohorts including 327 patients (103 ICT vs 224 in non-ICT). Primary outcome was significantly higher in the experimental group versus the control group (84.5% vs 41.4% respectively, 307 patients; 95% CI [3.61, 12.72]; p<0.00001; I2=0). Reintervention rates also decreased from 32.6% in the control to 12.6% in the ICT group (OR 0.34; 95%CI [0.12,0.94]; p =0.04; I2= 48%), whereas complication rates did not exhibit significant differences. Radiation exposure was also significantly reduced in two of the included studies. Conclusion: This meta-analysis highlights a favorable outcome with intraoperative CT scan use in PCNL procedures, showing a considerable increase in SFR when compared to standard fluoroscopy and nephroscopy. Despite limited studies, our synthesis underscores the potential of ICT scans to significantly reduce residual stones and their consequences for endourology patients, as reinterventions and follow-up ionizing radiation studies.

Resumo Introdução: O papel da tomografia computorizada torácica de ultrabaixa dose (ULDCT) em contexto de urgência é desconhecido. Objetivo: Este estudo avaliou a viabilidade da ULDCT em adultos na urgência com suspeita de pneumonia. Foram medidos a dose de radiação, o tempo entre a solicitação e os relatórios do exame, prescrições de antimicrobianos também foram correlacionadas. Métodos: Este estudo avaliou a viabilidade da ULDCT em adultos na urgência com suspeita de pneumonia. Foram medidas a dose de radiação, o tempo entre a solicitação e a disponibilização dos relatórios do exame, e também foram correlacionadas as prescrições de antimicrobianos. Entre outubro de 2017 e dezembro de 2018, incluímos prospectivamente adultos com suspeita de pneumonia adquirida na comunidade, sem diagnóstico definitivo por avaliação clínica. Os critérios de exclusão abrangeram condições clínicas que pudessem afetar a interpretação da imagem. Resultados: Foram incluídos 131 pacientes elegíveis (idade média de 43,5 anos; 57% homens) encaminhados para ULDCT. Dezoito (13,7%) foram excluídos. A dose média de radiação da ULDCT foi de 0,14 mSv. O intervalo de tempo entre a solicitação médica e o resultado da ULDCT foi de 43 minutos. Conclusão: A ULDCT mostrou-se viável para pacientes adultos com suspeita de pneumonia em contexto de urgência. Os relatórios foram disponibilizados num intervalo razoável e os resultados negativos foram associados a uma baixa taxa de prescrição de antibióticos.

Abstract Background: The role of ultra-low-dose chest CT (ULDCT) in the emergency department is unknown. Purpose: This study sought to examine feasibility of ULDCT in adults presenting to the emergency department for whom pneumonia was suspected. Radiation dose and time interval between medical request and ULDCT results were measured, antibiotic prescriptions were correlated. Methods: Between October 2017 and December 2018, we prospectively enrolled consecutive healthy adult patients in a single-center for whom community-acquired pneumonia was suspected and for whom no definitive diagnosis was possible by clinical judgment. Exclusion criteria comprised all chronic conditions that could impact severity and interpretation of image. Results: 131 eligible patients (mean age 43.5 years; 57% men) were enrolled to ULDCT. Eighteen (13.7%) patients were excluded. Average CT radiation dose was 0.14 mSv. Time interval between medical request and ultra-low-dose chest CT result was 43 minutes. Only 15.9% of patients with negative CT received antibiotics. Conclusion: Ultra-low-dose chest CT was feasible for almost all patients in a group of healthy adults presenting to the emergency department with suspected community-acquired pneumonia. Results were made available in a reasonable interval, and negative ones were associated with a low antibiotic prescription rate.

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this narrative review is to discuss the current state of research funding in Brazil. Materials and Methods: This study is based on the most recent edition of the course Funding for Research and Innovation in the University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine which was a three-day course with 12 hours of instruction. The course brought together leading experts in the field to comprehensively discuss the current state of research funding in Brazil. Each speaker provided a presentation on a specific topic related to research funding. After the workshop, speakers assembled relevant topics in this manuscript. Results: collaborative research is critical for securing research funding. It optimizes proposal competitiveness, amplifies societal impact, and manages risks effectively. As such, fostering and supporting these collaborations is paramount for both researchers and funding agencies. To maintain the highest integrity in research, investigators involved in these collaborations must disclose any relationships that could potentially influence the outcomes or interpretation of their projects. Conclusions: In Brazil, the mainstay of research funding stems from public entities, with agencies such as CNPq, CAPES, and state bodies like FAPESP, FAPERJ, FAPEMIG and others at the forefront. Concurrently, industry funding offers viable pathways, especially through industry-sponsored studies, investigator-led projects, and collaborative initiatives. The Brazilian funding landscape is further enriched by innovative platforms, including crowdfunding and the contributions of institutions like the Serrapilheira Institute. Internationally, esteemed organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation stand out as potential funders.

ABSTRACT The use of biostimulants may mitigate the deleterious effects of salt stress on plant growth and physiological variables. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the growth, physiology, organic solutes, and visual characteristics of two tropical ornamental species (Celosia argentea and Catharanthus roseus) cultivated with brackish waters and treated with Ascophyllum nodosum extract. The experiment was performed in greenhouse conditions. The experimental design was a complete randomized block arranged in a split-plot scheme. The plots comprised three levels of electrical conductivity of the irrigation water (ECw - 0.5, 2.5, and 4.5 dS m-1), the subplots four concentrations of algae extract (0, 400, 800, and 1200 mg L-1), and the sub-subplots two tropical ornamental herbaceous species [C. argentea and C. roseus]. The salinity of the irrigation water negatively affects the morphological and physiological characteristics of the two species studied, mainly C. roseus. Irrigation with water up to 2.5 dS m-1 favored visual quality and increased the purchasing preference for C. argentea. The use of intermediate concentrations (400 mg L-1) of algae extract (A. nodosum) promoted partial mitigation of the effects of salt stress on biomass production and leaf gas exchange, especially for C. argentea, but these positive responses decreased or disappeared with the intensification of salt stress and the increase in algae extract concentration.

RESUMO O uso de bioestimulantes pode mitigar os efeitos deletérios do estresse salino no crescimento e variáveis fisiológicos. Assim, objetivou-se com o presente estudo avaliar o crescimento, fisiologia, solutos orgânicos e características visuais de duas espécies ornamentais tropicais (Celosia argentea and Catharanthus roseus) cultivadas utilizando-se águas salobras e tratadas com extrato de Ascophyllum nodosum. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, em delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso, dispostos em parcelas subsubdivididas, sendo as parcelas constituídas por três níveis de condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação (CEa - 0,5, 2,5 e 4,5 dS m-1), as subparcelas quatro concentrações de extrato de algas (0, 400, 800 e 1200 mg L-1) e as subsubparcelas de duas espécies herbáceas ornamentais tropicais: C. argentea e C. roseus. A salinidade da água de irrigação afeta negativamente as características morfológicas e fisiológicas das duas espécies estudadas, principalmente C. roseus. A irrigação com água de até 2,5 dS m-1 favoreceu a qualidade visual e aumentou a preferência de compra por C. argentea. O uso de concentrações intermediárias (400 mg L-1) de extrato de alga (A. nodosum) promoveu mitigação parcial dos efeitos do estresse salino na produção de biomassa e nas trocas gasosas foliares, especialmente para C. argentea, mas essas respostas positivas diminuíram ou desapareceram com a intensificação do estresse salino e com o aumento da concentração do extrato de algas.

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the vaccine-induced serological response after administering four commercial formulations containing Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) type-1, BVDV-2, and Bovine Herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1) to young heifers with circulating maternal antibody titers. The study also determined the anamnestic response to vaccinations after the complete metabolization of maternal antibodies when the calves reached six months. Eighty-seven Holstein heifers were selected and randomly distributed into four experimental groups based on the vaccine administered. The four vaccine-based experimental groups were as follows: vaccine A (n = 22), vaccine B (n = 22), vaccine C (n = 24), and vaccine D (n = 19), given on the 60th, 90th, and 180th day of life, respectively. Virus-neutralization (VN) tests were performed at baseline (day 60) and 30 days after administering the second (day 120) and third doses (day 210). We analyzed the effect of vaccine group (P ≤ 0.001), day of vaccination (P ≤ 0.001), and group versus vaccine day interaction (P ≤ 0.001) for antibody titers produced against BVDV-1, BVDV-2, and BoHV-1 using the PROC MIXED method (Statistical Analysis System -SAS 9.4). Antibody titers against BVDV-1, BVDV-2, and BoHV-1 were similar at baseline and on day 60 of life. The mean antibody titers were constant and persisted against BVDV-1 in heifers immunized with vaccines A and C. Heifers immunized with vaccine A alone had a similar effect against BVDV-2. Regarding BoHV-1, the antibody titers decreased between days 60 and 210 in groups B, C, and D. The antibody titer for heifers in group A also decreased between days 60 and day 120, and an intense increase in titers was observed on day 210. After being immunized with formulations B, C, and D, the frequency of animals with titers above protective levels for BVDV-1, BVDV-2, and BoHV-1 was very low or null. Indicators of anamnestic response were observed in heifers vaccinated with formulation A only. Therefore, it can be concluded that passive immunity negatively interferes with antibody production after vaccination.

RESUMO: O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a resposta sorológica induzida após vacinação com quatro formulações comerciais contendo o BVDV-1, BVDV-2 e BoHV-1 em novilhas jovens com títulos de anticorpos maternos circulantes, assim como analisar uma possível resposta anamnéstica em vacinações, após a completa metabolização dos anticorpos maternais aos seis meses de idade. Foram selecionadas 87 novilhas Holandesas, distribuídas aleatoriamente em quatro grupos experimentais de acordo com as vacinas: vacina A (n = 22), vacina B (n = 22), vacina C (n = 24) e vacina D (n = 19), aplicadas aos dias 60, 90 e 180 de vida. Testes de vírus-neutralização (VN) foram realizados no momento basal (D60) e 30 dias após a aplicação da 2ª dose (D120) e 3ª dose (D210). Observou-se efeito do grupo (P ≤ 0,001), dia da vacinação (P ≤ 0,001), e interação grupo versus dia (P ≤ 0,001) para os títulos de anticorpos produzidos contra o BVDV-1, BVDV-2 e BoHV-1, por meio do comando PROC MIXED (Statistical Analysis System, versão 9,4). Os títulos de anticorpos contra o BVDV-1, BVDV-2 e BoHV-1 eram semelhantes no momento basal aos 60 dias de vida. Os títulos médios de anticorpos foram constantes e persistentes contra o BVDV-1 nas novilhas imunizadas com as vacinas A e C, porém apenas a vacina A teve este mesmo perfil contra o BVDV-2. Em relação ao BoHV-1, os grupos B, C e D apresentaram queda nos títulos de anticorpos do D60 ao D210, enquanto as novilhas do grupo A apresentaram queda do D60 ao D120, com aumento intenso dos títulos no D210. A frequência de animais com títulos acima dos protetores contra o BVDV-1, BVDV-2 e BoHV-1 foram muito baixos ou nulos após as vacinações nos animais imunizados com as formulações B, C e D. Sugere-se que a imunidade passiva interferiu negativamente na indução de anticorpos pelas vacinas, observando-se indicadores de resposta anamnéstica apenas para as novilhas vacinadas com a formulação A.