Prescription pattern of inhalational medications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in India: insights from cross-sectional survey of pulmonologists across India

Background: Treatment of COPD depends on disease severity, phenotype and exacerbation risk. Inhaled medications are the treatment of choice in COPD. We undertook this survey to find the most commonly prescribed inhalational medication in COPD as per the severity of the disease. Methods: It was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey of pulmonologists in real-world clinical practice settings conducted across India. Results: The participants included 806 pulmonologists across India. Seventy-five per cent of pulmonologists ranked symptom relief, reduction in the frequency of exacerbations and improvement in lung function as the most important treatment targets. In COPD patients falling under GOLD group A, the treatment choice by pulmonologists in descending rank order was fomroterol/glycopyrronium (32%), ipratropium (38%), and tiotropium (30%) and for gold group B, this was fomroterol/glycopyrronium (34%), followed by indacaterol/glycopyrronium (26%) and tiotropium/formoterol (40%). In the GOLD group E, triple therapy (formoterol/glycopyrronium/budesonide) was preferred by 41% of pulmonologists. In the frequent exacerbator, predominant emphysema, chronic bronchitis and concomitant asthma phenotype, 44%, 38%, 46% and 32% of pulmonologists ranked formoterol/ glycopyrronium/budesonide as their preferred 1st therapy, respectively. Among COPD patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) comorbidity, 31% of pulmonologists selected formoterol/glycopyrronium/budesonide as 1st-preference drug therapy. Similar results were obtained for COPD patients with metabolic syndrome comorbidity. Conclusions: For the management of COPD patients, pulmonologists predominantly preferred a triple drug combination of formoterol/glycopyrronium/budesonide in GOLD group E and also in patients with cardiovascular and metabolic comorbidities. Fomroterol/glycopyrronium was the most preferred combination for GOLD group A and GOLD group B.

A comparative study of ProRithm and standard monitoring techniques for non-invasive blood pressure measurement using photoplethysmography and electrocardiography signals through artificial intelligence/machine learning methods

Background: Multi-parameter monitoring devices are essential for providing real-time patient data, which is crucial for effective healthcare interventions. This clinical trial evaluated the accuracy of the ProRithm beat-to-beat cuffless device for arterial blood pressure monitoring, comparing it with a standard sphygmomanometer. Methods: This observational study included 30 subjects aged 18 and above. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements from both the ProRithm device and the Philips Monitor were compared using statistical analysis. Results: The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the ProRithm device and the manual method. In comparison with manual measurements using a sphygmomanometer, the mean systolic blood pressure was 131.2 mmHg with ProRithm it was 129.3 mmHg. Similarly, with the manual method, while the mean diastolic blood pressure was 76.2 mmHg and with ProRithm it was 75.9 mmHg. Conclusions: This study indicates that portable, small-sized devices like ProRithm, which facilitate remote monitoring, are effective for real-time blood pressure assessment in clinical settings.

Pattern of mortality in a tertiary care teaching hospital according to the 11th Revision International classification of disease

Background: Mortality is the oldest known health care indicator and a valuable tool for planning and managing in hospitals. Identifying the causes of mortality in hospital is important to monitor the health of the nations, identifying priorities and burden of disease analysis to attempt to estimate the causes of loss of healthy life. Hence this study was done to know the causes of death as per International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11 among patients who died in Hangal Sri Kumareshwar Hospital in the year 2023. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted from 01 January to 31 December 2023 in Hangal Sri Kumareshwar Hospital. All mortality data of the year 2023 in the hospital were included in the study. The content of format included demographic variables of patients on the patient record like age, sex, address, mortality and its causes and classified according to ICD 11. Collected data was analyzed using percentages and Chi-square test. Results: Out of 505 deaths in Hangal Sri Kumareshwar Hospital and Research centre in 2023, 305 (60.40%) were males and 200 (39.60%) were females. Majority of deaths (31.48%) occurred between 41 to 60 years age group followed by 31.29% deaths occurring between 61 to 80 years age group. Regarding cause of death according to ICD-11, majority (24.16%) had a circulatory disease followed by 16.24% due to an infectious disease. Conclusions: The National Health Program to combat non communicable diseases has been implemented and the 12th five-year plan has made specific provision for the management and control of non-communicable diseases.

A study of the health benefits of the Yoga Prana Vidya healing camp conducted at YPV Ashram in December 2022

Background: Several YPV Healing Camp programmes in the past have assisted people of all ages in treating and resolving their current health problems and lowering their chance of developing future chronic illnesses, which typically begin early and get worse with age. This paper presents one such camp and its outcomes successfully conducted at the YPV Ashram in December 2022. Methods: An interventional method for evaluating the outcomes of this camp is used. Patients’ data was collected before and after this camp by a team of 6 YPV healers who performed healing services using YPV protocols. The patient sample consisted of 29 adults (20 female and 9 male) from various places in the country who registered their voluntary participation. Results: Measured parameters such as body weight (Wt.), body mass index (BMI), V Fat, waist circumference, blood pressure (both Systolic and diastolic), and O2 saturation showed statistically significant improvements for the group. The patients experienced considerable improvements in their conditions such as pain in various parts of the body, and other physiological, psychological, and mental health issues. Conclusions: The key success aspects of the YPV healing and wellness camps are the teamwork, preparation and scheduling, expertise, competence, and dedication of the healers. The Yoga Prana Vidya method, as a supplementary and alternative medicine, has had such an impact on the healthcare system that those who have sought this therapeutic system have experienced it well. More research is recommended on this topic utilizing suitable techniques and samples.

A rare prostatic tumour masquerading clinically as benign prostatic hyperplasia

Prostatic tumours are usually benign. Malignant tumours are usually adenocarcinoma. Rare benign prostate tumours include inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours, which can be found in various body parts and are frequently identified in the lung or abdominal cavity of children and young adults. Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours of the urinary tract present more often in kidneys. Prostatic inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours are sporadic and rare. Presenting 44 years old male with complaints of gross hematuria for 15 days with recurrent urine retention. Per rectal examination revealed, grade II prostate enlargement was firm in consistency. PSA was mildly raised (4.4 ng/ml). Ultrasound abdomen showed enlarged prostate (volume -40 cc) with irregular margins and heterogeneous echo texture showing increased flow on colour Doppler. Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) showed a well-defined irregular heterogeneously echoic mass in the transitional zone, but TRUS biopsy showed no malignancy. After TURP, prostate chip examination showed inflammatory myofibroblastic pseudotumour of the prostate. Di?erentiation of inflammatory myofibroblastic prostate tumours from malignant tumours through imaging and laboratory tests is di?cult. A case of prostatic inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour observed after transurethral resection of the prostate to treat prostate hyperplasia in a 44-year-old man is presented in this report.

The effect of Laja in dyslipidemia: an interventional pre-post test

Background: Dyslipidemia is a lipoprotein metabolism disorder and a major risk factor for Cardio Vascular Diseases. The National Cholesterol Education Programme (NCEP) guidelines suggest dietary modifications, exercise and weight control as the main foundation of dyslipidemia treatment. Dyslipidemia can be considered as a kapha medoja vikara, managed with correction of agni and kaphamedahara drugs. L?ja (puffed rice) is an aharadravya ideal in this condition because it is having kaphamedahara property. Methods: This study was conducted at Govt. Ayurveda College, Tripunithura as an interventional pre-post study with control group to find out solution for normalizing lipid profile by changing diet without therapeutic medicine. 30 Participants were allotted in each groups by consecutive sampling and advised to follow diet restriction and exercise for both groups. In addition the study group consumed the L?ja peya two times daily before food. Study period was 90 days and assessment taken in 0th, 46th and 91st day. Results: The results showed significant effect on lipid profile in both groups. But in comparison to control group, the study group showed highly significant reduction in Total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and Triglycerides and not in increasing HDL. Conclusions: L?ja which contains rice bran, low in fat and has Kashaya Madurarasa, lakhu alparooksha guna, agnideepana, kaphachidah and medahara property, that helps to digest the food properly and correct the metabolism. Thus laja peya has a beneficiary role in reducing Total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and Triglycerides and there is no role in increasing HDL.

Prevention and risk factors associated with incidence of central line associated bloodstream infection: a narrative review

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are a critical concern in healthcare settings, associated with high mortality rates and substantial financial burdens. This article highlights the various risk factors contributing to CLABSI, emphasizing both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as patient age, gender, underlying medical conditions, and catheterization duration. The prevention of CLABSI is addressed through a comprehensive bundle of evidence-based interventions, including hand hygiene, proper catheter insertion, skin preparation, catheter kits, selection of catheters, and maintenance bundles. Antimicrobial lock and flush solutions are crucial in eradicating microbes within catheter lumens. Furthermore, chlorhexidine bathing is recommended to reduce skin contaminants. Implementing these strategies collectively can significantly reduce the incidence of CLABSI, enhancing patient safety and reducing healthcare expenditure.

Understanding the factors influencing pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus

Tacrolimus, a potent calcineurin inhibitor integral to immunosuppressive regimens, exhibits complex pharmacokinetics influenced by diverse factors and understanding these factors is crucial for safety, efficacy and dose optimisation. Genetic variations, particularly in CYP3A enzyme systems and P- Glycoprotein, contribute significantly to inter-individual variability in tacrolimus metabolism. Polymorphisms in these systems alter drug bioavailability, impacting clinical outcomes. Ethnicity further compounds this variability, with distinct genetic profiles leading to differential drug responses. Notably, black patients, often characterized by CYP3A5 expressor status, may have higher drug clearance. Age-related changes in tacrolimus clearance highlights the discrepancies in elderly and paediatric populations. On the other hand, prediction of gender-specific differences is difficult due to lack of evidence. Body composition, specifically variations in fat and muscle mass, significantly impacts drug distribution and clearance. Obesity, associated with altered CYP3A activity, results in decreased drug clearance, emphasizing the importance of accounting for body composition in dosing calculations. Pregnancy -induced physiological changes affect tacrolimus absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, necessitating careful monitoring and dose adjustments in pregnant individuals. Dietary factors and drug interactions, particularly with CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, further contribute to the intricate web of variables influencing tacrolimus pharmacokinetics. In conclusion, this review sheds light on the multifaceted factors influencing tacrolimus pharmacokinetics, providing essential insights for clinicians to tailor individualized dosing regimens and enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing the risk of adverse events.

Proportion of metabolic syndrome among overweight and obese children of age 6 to 16 years attending a tertiary care centre, Kerala

Background: This study aimed to find out the proportion of overweight and obese children of age 6-16 years having metabolic syndrome and to find out the risk factors for the same. Methods: This hospital based cross sectional study was conducted in obesity clinic of Department of Paediatric, Government T D Medical College, Alappuzha over a period of 18 months (from jan 2019 to june 2020). Sample size was calculated as 210 children including 20% expected dropout. Children of age 6-16 years with BMI > 85th centile attending the obesity clinics were enrolled for the study as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After getting consent/assent, relevant points from history, physical examination and investigations were recorded. The data obtained were entered in excel spread sheet and analyzed. Results: In this study, 28.9% were overweight and 71.1% were obese. Proportion of metabolic syndrome [MetS] among subject with overweight and obese were 18% and 29.3% respectively. Metabolic syndrome were more in males, children receiving more calories, have passive smoking and were born as preterm or big baby. Abdominal obesity was present in all children with MetS. Significant associations were found between MetS and inflammatory markers like CRP. Among the metabolic parameters, elevated level of uric acid, SGOT, SGPT and abnormal lipid profile were found to have a positive correlation with MetS. Conclusions: More than 25% of children with BMI > 85th centile is found to have MetS. Being overweight also is high risk for development of metabolic syndrome. High calorie intake, passive smoking, prematurity, birth weight more than 4 kg and abdominal obesity are significant risk factors identified.

Study of p40 is superior to p63 for the diagnosis of pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma on cytological smears

Background: Histology and genetically driven management are the current standard in carcinoma lung. Adequate tissue is a challenge in a few cases. While liquid biopsy is an, it’s an always preferred to get an initial cyto/histo morphological confirmation. While the immune-histo chemistry (IHC) is a proven method to differentiate the squamous vs adeno carcinoma, the role of various “immuno-cyto-chemical” makers were not studied widely. Methods: This is a retrospective (July 2018 to December 2018) for random sample collection and prospective (Jan 2019-August 2019) study conducted from in the Department of pathology, govt. chest hospital Osmania medical college, Hyderabad as a part of PG dissertation, 120 subjects with cytological diagnosis of non-small cell lung carcinoma were analyzed during this period and others were excluded. Results: Out of 120 cases 80-adenocarcinoma (ADC) and 40-squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Most of the patients are in 61-70 years, 20 are 71-80 years, 20 between 51-60 and 10 are between 40-50 years. In this study sensitivity of p63 and p40 is equal, but specificity and positive predictive value are higher for p40 for diagnosis of SCC. Conclusions: Immuno-cyto-chemistry is still a valid option in selected cases where getting a biopsy is difficult. Our findings recommend the use of p40 immuno staining rather than p63 as a squamous cell marker.

Ayurvedic management for hypertension with micro albuminuria: a case report

Hypertension is a non-communicable disease in which the pressure of blood pushing against the arterial walls becomes high. In chronic stage it leads to severe systemic diseases, which affects heart, kidney, lung etc. The main causative factors are unhealthy food and lifestyle, stress, smoking, Alcohol, obesity and hereditary. Microalbuminuria in Hypertension is an early sign of kidney damage and is considered as a predictor for the end stage of renal disease and cardiovascular disease. So, it is of great importance to manage microalbuminuria or high urine albumin creatinine ratio and progression of kidney disease in hypertensive patient. In Ayurveda references no proper description of hypertension is available. By viewing the pathogenesis and physiology, it is formed by the involvement of Tridoshas, Srotorodha, and Dhatudushti. The present case is a 60-year male patient was diagnosed uncontrolled hypertension with microalbuminuria, admitted for 1month, presented with complaints such as frothy urine, over tiredness, uncontrolled anger and increased blood pressure during evening time, not controlled by hypertensive modern medicines. His urine albumin-creatinine ratio was 106.98 mg/dl of creatinine, microalbumin in urine 138 mg/dl and uric acid was 11.5 mg/dl. He was advised the internal Ayurveda medicines, diet restriction and yogic breathing exercise. Within one month of treatment the urine albumin creatinine ratio and uric acid was reduced and became normal. His blood pressure also became controlled and recovered all symptoms. Ayurvedic treatment module appears to be safe and efficacious with early recovery and better outcomes in this case.

A rare cause of epididymo-orchitis

Epididymo-orchitis is an inflammatory lesion of the testis and epididymis with a lymphocytic exudate. Patients with acute epididymo-orchitis typically present with scrotal pain, swelling, tenderness and fever. Here, we present a patient with scrotal pain and hemiscrotal swelling as the main complaints; however further investigations revealed a completely different and rare diagnosis. Zinner抯 syndrome is a very rare developmental anomaly of the Wolffian duct. To date, only about 200 cases have been diagnosed. It is a triad of unilateral renal agenesis, ipsilateral seminal vesicle cyst and ejaculatory duct obstruction. Some patients remain asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, while others present with symptoms related to seminal vesicle cysts or ejaculatory duct obstruction: voiding or ejaculatory difficulty or pain. Treatment options include transurethral or transrectal aspiration and percutaneous drainage, however both are linked to an increased risk of recurrence. Symptomatic, complicated and recurrent cyst will require excision of the cyst, either laparoscopically or robotically.

An evaluation of primary immunization coverage among 12-23 months children in an urban area of western Maharashtra: a community based cross sectional study

Background: Infectious diseases are major cause of morbidity and mortality in children. One of the most cost effective and easy methods for the child survival is immunization. Objective was to determine the immunization coverage and find out the various factors and its reasons for partial or non-immunization of child. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out for the assessment of immunization coverage in the field practice area of the urban health training center using WHO 30×7 clusters sampling method during March 2021 to October 2022. A total of seven children aged 12-23 months were interviewed from each cluster on pretested, predesigned schedule, thus giving us the sample size of 210. Chi square test was applied for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 210 children aged 12-23 months were included in the study. It was found that 158 (75.24%) of the children were found to be fully immunized. While 49 (23.34%) and 3 (1.42%) nonimmunized respectively. Most common reason for partial and non-immunization of children was found to be obstacles and lack of motivation on the part of parents. There is only statistically significant association between education of mothers and immunization status of children. Conclusions: Increasing the knowledge and understanding of the caretakers of the young children abouts the essentiality and benefits of routine immunization would be a strong step forward in achieving the goals.

Interstate migration and its association with the prevalence of stunting in under-five children of the migrant families in Delhi-NCR, India: a cross-sectional study

Background: Interstate migration in India is increasing every year. Children of the migrant families often face poor living conditions and insufficient nutrition, as a result of various socio-economic determinants. This study aimed to understand the association between rural-to-urban migration and under-five stunting, and the various determinants involved. This study allows researchers to make pre and post pandemic comparison of stunting among migrant children in Delhi, since it was carried-out post the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried-out in the bhatti mines area of south Delhi, using a systemic sampling method. 100 households each of migrants and non-migrants were approached, and height of the under-five children was measured. Stunting was estimated using WHO child growth standards. Information on demography and socio-economic determinants was collected from the mothers using a questionnaire. Results: Stunting was recorded in 62% of the migrant under-five children and 27% in the non-migrant children, with a significant difference between the two groups (p value <0.001), indicating a significant association between migration and stunting. Source of drinking water (p<0.05) and recurring episodes of diarrhea (p<0.05) were also found to be strongly associated with under-five stunting. Conclusions: Under-five nutritional deficits lead to compromised immunity and delay in physical and mental growth and development. It is important to recognize and address the diverse needs of the under-five migrant population’s health in order to avoid stunting and other serious manifestations.

Stimulation of mouse hematopoietic stem cells by angiogenin and DNA preparations

Immature hematopoietic progenitors are a constant source for renewal of hemocyte populations and the basic component of the tissue and cell repair apparatus. A unique property of these cells of internalizing extracellular double-stranded DNA has been previously shown. The leukostimulatory effect demonstrated in our pioneering studies was considered to be due to the feature of this cell. In the present research, we have analyzed the effects of DNA genome reconstructor preparation (DNAgr), DNAmix, and human recombinant angiogenin on both hematopoietic stem cells and multipotent progenitors. Treatment with bone marrow cells of experimental mice with these preparations stimulates colony formation by hematopoietic stem cells and proliferation of multipotent descendants. The main lineage responsible for this is the granulocyte-macrophage hematopoietic lineage. Using fluorescent microscopy as well as FACS assay, co-localization of primitive c-Kit- and Sca-1-positive progenitors and the TAMRA-labeled double-stranded DNA has been shown. Human recombinant angiogenin was used as a reference agent. Cells with specific markers were quantified in intact bone marrow and colonies grown in the presence of inducers. Quantitative analysis revealed that a total of 14,000 fragment copies of 500 bp, which is 0.2% of the haploid genome, can be delivered into early progenitors. Extracellular double-stranded DNA fragments stimulated the colony formation in early hematopoietic progenitors from the bone marrow, which assumed their effect on cells in G0. The observed number of Sca1+/c-Kit+ cells in colonies testifies to the possibility of both symmetrical and asymmetrical division of the initial hematopoietic stem cell and its progeny.

Selective inhibition of interleukin 6 receptor decreased inflammatory cytokines and increased proteases in an experimental model of critical calvarial defect

Considering the lack of consensus related to the impact of selective IL-6 receptor inhibition on bone remodeling and the scarcity of reports, especially on large bone defects, this study proposed to evaluate the biological impact of the selective inhibitor of interleukin-6 receptor (tocilizumab) in an experimental model of critical calvarial defect in rats. In this preclinical and in vivo study, 24 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups (n=12/group): defect treated with collagen sponge (CG) and defect treated with collagen sponge associated with 2 mg/kg tocilizumab (TCZ). The defect in the parietal bone was created using an 8-mm diameter trephine drill. After 90 days, the animals were euthanized, and tissue samples (skull caps) were evaluated through micro-CT, histological, immunohistochemistry, cytokines, and RT-qPCR analyses. Tocilizumab reduced mononuclear inflammatory infiltration (P<0.05) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels (P<0.01) and down-regulated tissue gene expression of BMP-2 (P<0.001), RUNX-2 (P<0.05), and interleukin (IL)-6 (P<0.05). Moreover, it promoted a stronger immunostaining of cathepsin and RANKL (P<0.05). Micro-CT and histological analyses revealed no impact on general bone formation (P>0.05). The bone cells (osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes) in the defect area were similar in both groups (P>0.05). Tocilizumab reduced inflammatory cytokines, decreased osteogenic protein, and increased proteases in a critical bone defect in rats. Ninety days after the local application of tocilizumab in the cranial defect, we did not find a significant formation of bone tissue compared with a collagen sponge.

Insects and spiders on Acacia mangium (Fabaceae) saplings as bioindicators for the recovery of tropical degraded areas / Insetos e aranhas em plantas de Acacia mangium (Fabaceae) como bioindicadores na recuperação de área tropical degradada

Abstract Acacia mangium is a pioneer species with fast growth and frequently used in the recovery of degraded areas. The objectives were to evaluate insects and spiders, their ecological indices and interactions on A. mangium saplings in a tropical degraded area in recovering process. The experimental design was completely randomized with 24 replications, with treatments represented by the first and second years after A. mangium seedling planted. Numbers of leaves/branch, branches/sapling, and ground cover by A. mangium saplings, Hemiptera: Phenacoccus sp. and Pachycoris torridus; Hymenoptera: Tetragonisca angustula and Trigona spinipes, Brachymyrmex sp., Camponotus sp. and Cephalotes sp.; Blattodea: Nasutitermes sp. and Neuroptera: Chrysoperla sp.; abundance, species richness of pollinating insects, tending ants, and the abundance of Sternorrhyncha predators were greatest in the second year after planting. Numbers of Hemiptera: Aethalium reticulatum, Hymenoptera: Camponotus sp., Cephalotes sp., Polybia sp., T. angustula, T. spinipes, tending ants, pollinating insects, Sternorrhyncha predators and species richness of tending ants were highest on A. mangium saplings with greatest numbers of leaves or branches. The increase in the population of arthropods with ground cover by A. mangium saplings age increase indicates the positive impact by this plant on the recovery process of degraded areas.

Resumo Acacia mangium é uma espécie pioneira, de rápido crescimento e utilizada na recuperação de áreas degradadas. Os objetivos foram avaliar insetos e aranhas, seus índices ecológicos e interações com plantas de A. mangium em área tropical degradada em processo de recuperação. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado com 24 repetições, com os tratamentos representados pelos primeiro e segundo anos após a plantio de A. mangium. Os números de folhas/galhos, galhos/plantas e cobertura do solo por plantas de A. mangium, de Hemiptera: Phenacoccus sp. e Pachycoris torridus; Hymenoptera: Tetragonisca angustula e Trigona spinipes, Brachymyrmex sp., Camponotus sp. e Cephalotes sp.; Blattodea: Nasutitermes sp. e Neuroptera: Chrysoperla sp.; a abundância, riqueza de espécies de insetos polinizadores, formigas cuidadoras e a abundância de predadores de Sternorrhyncha foram maiores no segundo ano após o plantio. Os números de Hemiptera: Aethalium reticulatum, Hymenoptera: Camponotus sp., Cephalotes sp., Polybia sp., T. angustula, T. spinipes, formigas cuidadoras, insetos polinizadores, predadores de Sternorrhyncha e a riqueza de espécies de formigas cuidadoras foram maiores em plantas de A. mangium com maior altura e número de folhas ou galhos. O aumento populacional de artrópodes e da cobertura do solo com o processo de envelhecimento das plantas de A. mangium indicam impacto positivo dessa planta na recuperação de áreas degradadas.

Sucking insects and their predators on tree canopies of a monocultural stand of Caryocar brasiliense / Insetos sugadores e seus predadores na copa de Caryocar brasiliense em sistema de monocultura

Abstract Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) trees are widely distributed throughout the Cerrado ecosystem. The fruits of C. brasiliense trees are used by humans for food and as the main income source in many communities. C. brasiliense conservation is seriously threatened due to habitat loss caused by the land-use change. Sucking insects constitute an important ecological driver that potentially impact C. brasiliense survival in degraded environments. In addition, insects sampling methodologies for application in studies related to the conservation of C. brasiliense are poorly developed. In this study, sucking insects (Hemiptera) and their predators were recorded in three vertical strata of Caryocar brasiliense canopies. The distribution of sucking species showed vertical stratification along the canopy structure of C. brasiliense. The basal part of the canopy had the highest numbers of sucking insects Aphis gossypii (Glover 1877) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Bemisia tabaci (Genn. 1889) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), and their predators Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), spiders (Araneae), and Zelus armillatus (Lep. & Servi., 1825) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Predators' distribution follows the resource availability and preferred C. brasiliense tree parts with a higher abundance of prey.

Resumo Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) é amplamente distribuído por todo o ecossistema de cerrado. Os frutos de C. brasiliense são utilizados na alimentação humana e constitui uma importante fonte de renda para muitas comunidades. A perda de habitat provocada pelas mudanças de uso da terra coloca em risco a conservação de C. brasiliense. Insetos sugadores constituem um importante fator ecológico que, potencialmente, afeta o fitness de C. brasiliense em ambientes degradados. Além disso, as metodologias de amostragem de insetos para aplicação em estudos relacionados à conservação de C. brasiliense são pouco desenvolvidas. Neste estudo, o número de insetos sugadores (Hemiptera) e seus predadores foram avaliados em três estratos verticais do dossel de C. brasiliense. A distribuição das espécies sugadoras apresentou estratificação vertical ao longo da estrutura do dossel. O estrato basal do dossel apresentou o maior número de insetos sugadores Aphis gossypii (Glover 1877) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) e Bemisia tabaci (Genn. 1889) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), e seus predadores Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), aranhas (Araneae) e Zelus armillatus (Lep. & Servi., 1825) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Os predadores distribuíram-se de acordo com a disponibilidade de recursos, ocorrendo em maior número nas partes do dossel com maior abundância de suas presas.

Application of PolyPRep tools on HIV protease polyproteins using molecular docking / Aplicação da ferramenta PolyPRep em poliproteínas de protease de HIV usando docking molecular

Abstract In recent years, the development of high-throughput technologies for obtaining sequence data leveraged the possibility of analysis of protein data in silico. However, when it comes to viral polyprotein interaction studies, there is a gap in the representation of those proteins, given their size and length. The prepare for studies using state-of-the-art techniques such as Machine Learning, a good representation of such proteins is a must. We present an alternative to this problem, implementing a fragmentation and modeling protocol to prepare those polyproteins in the form of peptide fragments. Such procedure is made by several scripts, implemented together on the workflow we call PolyPRep, a tool written in Python script and available in GitHub. This software is freely available only for noncommercial users.

Resumo Nos últimos anos, o desenvolvimento de tecnologias de alto rendimento para obtenção de dados sequenciais potencializou a possibilidade de análise de dados proteicos in silico. No entanto, quando se trata de estudos de interação de poliproteínas virais, existe uma lacuna na representação dessas proteínas, devido ao seu tamanho e comprimento. Para estudos utilizando técnicas de ponta como o Aprendizado de Máquina, uma boa representação dessas proteínas é imprescindível. Apresentamos uma alternativa para este problema, implementando um protocolo de fragmentação e modelagem para preparar essas poliproteínas na forma de fragmentos de peptídeos. Tal procedimento é feito por diversos scripts, implementados em conjunto no workflow que chamamos de PolyPRep, uma ferramenta escrita em script Python e disponível no GitHub. Este software está disponível gratuitamente apenas para usuários não comerciais.