Consistent patterns of common species across tropical tree communities.

Trees structure the Earth's most biodiverse ecosystem, tropical forests. The vast number of tree species presents a formidable challenge to understanding these forests, including their response to environmental change, as very little is known about most tropical tree species. A focus on the common species may circumvent this challenge. Here we investigate abundance patterns of common tree species using inventory data on 1,003,805 trees with trunk diameters of at least 10 cm across 1,568 locations1-6 in closed-canopy, structurally intact old-growth tropical forests in Africa, Amazonia and Southeast Asia. We estimate that 2.2%, 2.2% and 2.3% of species comprise 50% of the tropical trees in these regions, respectively. Extrapolating across all closed-canopy tropical forests, we estimate that just 1,053 species comprise half of Earth's 800 billion tropical trees with trunk diameters of at least 10 cm. Despite differing biogeographic, climatic and anthropogenic histories7, we find notably consistent patterns of common species and species abundance distributions across the continents. This suggests that fundamental mechanisms of tree community assembly may apply to all tropical forests. Resampling analyses show that the most common species are likely to belong to a manageable list of known species, enabling targeted efforts to understand their ecology. Although they do not detract from the importance of rare species, our results open new opportunities to understand the world's most diverse forests, including modelling their response to environmental change, by focusing on the common species that constitute the majority of their trees.

Asociación entre comportamientos ofensivos y riesgo de burnout y depresión en trabajadores de la salud / Association between offensive behaviors and burnout and depression risks in health workers / Associação entre comportamentos ofensivos e risco de burnout e de depressão em trabalhadores de saúde

Objetivo: evaluar la incidencia de conductas ofensivas en el trabajo, las características y la asociación con el sexo, el estrés, el burnout y la depresión en trabajadores de la salud. Método: estudio transversal, descriptivo, cuantitativo, realizado con 125 trabajadores del Sistema Único de Salud brasileño. Los datos fueron recolectados entre junio de 2021 y abril de 2022, por medio de tres cuestionarios autoadministrados que evalúan características personales y ocupacionales; comportamientos ofensivos, estrés y burnout y síntomas de depresión. Se aplicó estadística descriptiva, prueba de asociación chi-cuadrado y análisis de regresión logística Resultados: el 44% de la muestra declararon 83 conductas y las amenazas de violencia fueron las más frecuentes (26%). Técnicos/auxiliares de enfermería, enfermeros y médicos fueron los profesionales más expuestos. El principal agresor fue el paciente; excepto en el caso del bullying, que fue perpetrado por los compañeros de trabajo (48%). Hubo asociación entre conductas ofensivas y burnout (OR: 4,73; IC 95%: 1,29-17,3; p=0,02) y entre conductas ofensivas y síntomas de depresión (OR: 1,05; IC 95%: 1,01-1,10; p=0,02). Conclusión: la práctica de conductas ofensivas en el trabajo en salud es frecuente y característica; el burnout y los síntomas de depresión aumentaron, respectivamente, 4,73 y 1,05 veces las posibilidades de que el trabajador sufriera esas conductas ofensivas en el ambiente de trabajo.

Objective: to evaluate the occurrence of offensive behaviors at work, their characteristics and association with sex, stress, burnout and depression in health workers. Method: a cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study carried out with 125 workers from the Brazilian Unified Health System. The data were collected from June 2021 to April 2022 through three self-applied questionnaires that assess personal and occupational characteristics; offensive behaviors, stress and burnout; and depressive symptoms. Descriptive statistics, the chi-square association test and logistic regression analysis were applied. Results: 44% of the sample reported 83 behaviors, with threats of violence as the most frequent ones (26%). Nursing technicians/assistants, nurses and physicians were the most exposed professionals. The main aggressors were the patients, except for bullying, which was perpetrated by co-workers (48%). There was an association between offensive behaviors and burnout (OR: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.29-17.3; p=0.02) and between offensive behaviors and depression symptoms (OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01-1.10; p=0.02). Conclusion: the occurrence of offensive behaviors in health work is frequent and characteristic and burnout and depressive symptoms respectively increased 4.73 and 1.05 times the chances of workers suffering these offensive behaviors in the work environment.

Objetivo: avaliar a ocorrência de comportamentos ofensivos no trabalho, suas características e associação com o sexo, estresse, burnout e depressão em trabalhadores de saúde. Método: estudo transversal, descritivo, de natureza quantitativa, realizado com 125 trabalhadores do Sistema Único de Saúde brasileiro. Os dados foram coletados no período de junho de 2021 a abril de 2022, por meio de três questionários autoaplicáveis que avaliam as características pessoais e ocupacionais; comportamentos ofensivos, estresse e burnout e sintomas depressivos. Estatística descritiva, teste de associação Qui-Quadrado e análise de regressão logística foram aplicados. Resultados: 44% da amostra referiram 83 comportamentos, sendo as ameaças de violência mais frequentes (26%). Técnicos/auxiliares de enfermagem, enfermeiros e médicos foram os profissionais mais expostos. O principal agressor foi o paciente, exceto quanto ao bullying, perpetrado por colegas de trabalho (48%). Houve associação entre comportamentos ofensivos e burnout (OR: 4,73; IC 95%: 1,29-17,3; p=0,02) e entre comportamentos ofensivos e sintomas de depressão (OR: 1,05; IC 95%: 1,01-1,10; p=0,02). Conclusão: a ocorrência de comportamentos ofensivos no trabalho em saúde é frequente e característica; o burnout e os sintomas depressivos aumentaram, respectivamente, 4,73 e 1,05 vezes as chances de o trabalhador sofrer estes comportamentos ofensivos no ambiente de trabalho.

Association between offensive behaviors and burnout and depression risks in health workers. / Asociación entre comportamientos ofensivos y riesgo de burnout y depresión en trabajadores de la salud.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the occurrence of offensive behaviors at work, their characteristics and association with sex, stress, burnout and depression in health workers. METHOD: a cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study carried out with 125 workers from the Brazilian Unified Health System. The data were collected from June 2021 to April 2022 through three self-applied questionnaires that assess personal and occupational characteristics; offensive behaviors, stress and burnout; and depressive symptoms. Descriptive statistics, the chi-square association test and logistic regression analysis were applied. RESULTS: 44% of the sample reported 83 behaviors, with threats of violence as the most frequent ones (26%). Nursing technicians/assistants, nurses and physicians were the most exposed professionals. The main aggressors were the patients, except for bullying, which was perpetrated by co-workers (48%). There was an association between offensive behaviors and burnout (OR: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.29-17.3; p=0.02) and between offensive behaviors and depression symptoms (OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01-1.10; p=0.02). CONCLUSION: the occurrence of offensive behaviors in health work is frequent and characteristic and burnout and depressive symptoms respectively increased 4.73 and 1.05 times the chances of workers suffering these offensive behaviors in the work environment.

Brazilian berry waste as a source of bioactive compounds: grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) as a case study.

Grumixama, Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., is a Brazilian berry little explored commercially and scientifically. However, local small producers market this fruit in the form of frozen pulp, which generates bioresidues, composed of seeds and peels. With the view to propose strategies for valuing grumixama, this study aimed to determine the chemical composition and assess the bioactivities of the hydroethanolic extracts of the whole residue (GR), seed (GS) and peel (GP) fractions of E. brasiliensis. From the results, GP had the highest concentration of organic acids (oxalic, malic, ascorbic and citric acids), total tocopherols, condensed tannins, anthocyanins, and other flavonoids. On the other hand, GS showed the highest content of monounsaturated fatty acids and hydrolysable tannins, whereas GR displayed a mixture of compounds detected in each of its parts. Regarding the bioactivities, low extract concentrations were required in two in vitro antioxidant assays, namely TBARS (EC50 = 0.90-1.34 µg mL-1) and OxHLIA (IC50 = 21-65 µg mL-1). Furthermore, GP had the highest inhibition activity of cellular oxidation in the CAA assay (80 ± 0.6%), while GS showed the highest anti-inflammatory activity via nitric oxide production inhibition (EC50 = 98.0 ± 0.5 µg mL-1). All samples induced cell growth inhibition of the tested tumor cells (GI50 = 14.7-186 µg mL-1) besides antibacterial and antifungal effects at low concentrations, but all samples were harmful to normal cells at moderate concentrations (GI50 = 145-268 µg mL-1). Therefore, E. brasiliensis residue could be a good source of bioactive compounds to be used in several areas. However, additional studies are needed to confirm its safety as well as to unravel the mechanisms behind its biological activities.

Valorization of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) peel: Chemical composition, biological activity, and optimized recovery of anthocyanins.

Chemical constituents and bioactive properties of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) peel were characterized and heat-/ultrasound-assisted extractions (HAE/UAE) of anthocyanins were optimized by response surface methodology. Five organic acids, the α-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol isoforms, and twenty-five fatty acids (36.8 % oleic acid) were identified, as well as a phenolic profile composed of ellagitannin derivatives, geraniin isomers, ellagic acid, and delphinidin-O derivatives. The extract showed antioxidant activity via lipid peroxidation (IC50 = 2.79 ± 0.03 µg/mL) and oxidative hemolysis (IC50 = 72 ± 2 µg/mL) inhibition, and displayed antibacterial and antifungal properties (MIC ≤ 1 mg/mL). On the other hand, no cytotoxicity was observed in tumor and non-tumor cell lines up to 400 µg/mL. The recovery of anthocyanins was more effective using HAE than UAE, allowing greater yields (16.2 mg/g extract) in just 3 min and using lower ethanol proportions. Overall, rambutan peel could be upcycled into bioactive ingredients and natural colorants for industrial applications.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol from olive pomace treated by gamma radiation: process optimization and bioactivity assessment.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was used to recover hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol from olive pomace, a residue generated by the olive oil industry. The extraction process was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM), with processing time, ethanol concentration and ultrasonic power as the combined independent variables. The highest amounts of hydroxytyrosol (36 ± 2 mg g-1 of extract) and tyrosol (14 ± 1 mg g-1 of extract) were obtained after 28 min of sonication at 490 W using 7.3% ethanol as the solvent. Under these global conditions, an extraction yield of 30 ± 2% was achieved. The bioactivity of the extract obtained under optimized UAE was evaluated and compared with that of an extract obtained under optimal heat-assisted extraction (HAE) conditions in a previous work of the authors. Compared to HAE, UAE reduced the extraction time and the solvent consumption, and also led to higher extraction yields (HAE yield was 13.7%). Despite this, HAE extract presented higher antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities and no antifungal potential against C. albicans. Furthermore, HAE extract also showed higher cytotoxic effects against the breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell line. These findings provide useful information for the food and pharmaceutical industries in developing new bioactive ingredients, which may represent a sustainable alternative to synthetic preservatives and/or additives.

Insights into the Chemical Composition and In Vitro Bioactive Properties of Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) Pericarp.

The industrial processing of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) generates high amounts of waste, as ~60% of the fruit is formed by an inedible pericarp. However, its pericarp has been explored as a source of xanthones; nevertheless, studies addressing the recovery of other chemical compounds from such biomass are still scarce. Hence, this study intended to elucidate the chemical composition of the mangosteen pericarp, including fat-soluble (tocopherols and fatty acids) and water-soluble (organic acids and phenolic compound non-xanthones) compounds present in the following extracts: hydroethanolic (MT80), ethanolic (MTE), and aqueous (MTW). In addition, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and antibacterial potentials of the extracts were assessed. The mangosteen pericarp showed a composition with seven organic acids, three tocopherol isomers, four fatty acids and fifteen phenolic compounds. Regarding the extraction of phenolics, the MT80 was the most efficient (54 mg/g extract), followed by MTE (19.79 mg/g extract) and MTW (4.011 mg/g extract). All extracts showed antioxidant and antibacterial activities; however, MT80 and MTE extracts were more efficient than MTW. Only MTW did not show anti-inflammatory properties, whereas MTE and MT80 showed inhibitory activities towards tumor cell lines. Notwithstanding, MTE showed cytotoxicity towards normal cells. Our findings support the idea that the ripe mangosteen pericarp is a source of bioactive compounds, although their recovery is dependent on the extraction solvent.

Poor Health Conditions among Brazilian Healthcare Workers: The Study Design and Baseline Characteristics of the HEROES Cohort.

This study was conducted to describe the health conditions (the psychosocial aspects, sleep quality, and musculoskeletal symptoms) among Brazilian healthcare workers in the context of the pandemic. Workers answered an online questionnaire, including the short version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ II), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The most unfavourable psychosocial factors were work pace (61%; 95% CI: 52-69%), emotional work demands (75%; 95% CI: 67-82%), predictability (47%; 95% CI: 39-56%), work-family conflict (55%; 95% CI: 46-64%), burnout (86%; 95% CI: 78-91%), and stress (81%; 95% CI: 73-87%). Most workers (74%; 95% CI: 66-81%) were classified as poor sleepers. Musculoskeletal symptoms were frequent in the neck (64%; 95% CI: 55-72%), shoulders (62%; 95% CI: 54-70%), upper back (58%; 95% CI: 50-67%), and lower back (61%; 95% CI: 52-69%). Depressive symptoms were also highly prevalent (mild: 22%; 95% CI: 15-30%, moderate: 16%; 95% CI: 11-23%, severe: 8%; 95% CI: 4-14%). Most healthcare workers experience unfavourable psychosocial factors, poor sleep quality, as well as musculoskeletal and depressive symptoms. These findings underscore the urgent need to acknowledge and address psychological and physical distress to improve the personal and professional well-being of this population.

Effects of Bulk Tank Milk, Waste Milk, and Pasteurized Waste Milk on the Intake, Ruminal Parameters, Blood Parameters, Health, and Performance of Dairy Calves.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of bulk tank milk (BTM), WM, and PWM on the intake, ruminal parameters, blood parameters, health, and performance of dairy calves. Forty-five male crossbred dairy calves (Gyr × Holstein) were used. On their fourth day of age, animals were grouped according to body weight, serum protein levels, and genetic composition. Three treatments were assessed: BTM (n = 15), WM from cows in antibiotic treatment (n = 15), and PWM via high-temperature, short-time pasteurization (72-74 °C for 16 s) (n = 15). During the experimental period (from 4 to 60 d of age), animals were fed 6 L of milk/d, divided into two equal meals. Water and concentrate were provided ad libitum. Daily measurements were made for milk, concentrate, and water intakes, as well as for fecal and respiratory scores. Rumen fluid and blood were sampled weekly. The following parameters were evaluated: volatile fatty acids (VFAs), pH and ammonia-N in rumen fluid, and ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and glucose in blood. Animals were weighed at birth, 4 d of age, and weekly up to 60 d of age. At the end of the experimental period (60 ± 1 d), all animals were euthanized for pulmonary evaluation. The randomized complete design with an interaction between treatment and week was the experimental method of choice for testing the hypothesis of the treatment's effect on all evaluated outcomes. Animals in the BTM treatment had higher milk dry matter intake (DMI), followed by WM and PWM calves. Concentrate DMI was lower for BTM in comparison to WM and PWM calves. However, total DMI showed no significant differences between treatments. The rumen fluid from calves receiving PWM had higher concentrations of acetate and propionate than that of BTM and WM animals. No differences were observed between treatments for blood glucose and BHB concentrations. Health parameters (fecal and respiratory scores) and pneumonia occurrence showed no significant difference between treatments. No differences were observed for average daily gain (ADG) or body growth. Feeding WM and PWM did not show significant negative effects on the intake, ruminal parameters, blood parameters, health, or performance of dairy calves.

Valorization of Sicanaodorifera (Vell.) Naudin Epicarp as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: Chemical Characterization and Evaluation of Its Bioactive Properties.

Fruit bio-residues can be interesting for the recovery of bioactive molecules, such as phenolic compounds, tocopherols, vitamins, among others. These compounds can be targeted at the food industry and used for the development of functional foods or as food additives. In some cases, fruit epicarps are converted into by-products with non-commercial value, and generally, these fruit parts have a higher content in bioactive compounds than the fruit pulp. From this perspective, S. odorifera, a Brazilian fruit, has an inedible epicarp that could be explored to obtain biological compounds. Therefore, the aims of this study were to evaluate the chemical composition and the antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial bioactivities of this by-product. S. odorifera epicarp showed a total of four organic acids, four phenolic compounds, highlighting the high concentration of anthocyanins (24 ± 1 mg/g dry weight (dw)) and high content of tocopherols (366 ± 2 mg/100 g dw). The hydroethanolic extract showed considerable antioxidant activity (EC50 values of 48.2 ± 0.5 and 27 ± 1 µg/mL for TBARS and OxHLIA assays, respectively), as also antibacterial and antifungal activities (minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ≤ 2.2 mg/mL). The results obtained in this study suggest that Sicana odorifera epicarp represents a reliable option for the development of novel natural-based colorants with functional/bioactive proprieties.

Effects of a Myrciaria jaboticaba peel extract on starch and triglyceride absorption and the role of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside.

The purpose of this study was to perform a parallel and comparative investigation of the effects of a Myrciaria jaboticaba (common name jabuticaba) peel extract and of its constituent cyanidin-3-O-glucoside on the overall process of starch and triglyceride intestinal absorption. The peel extract inhibited both the porcine pancreactic α-amylase and the pancreatic lipase but was 13.6 times more potent on the latter (IC50 values of 1963 and 143.9 µg mL-1, respectively). Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside did not contribute significantly to these inhibitions. The jabuticaba peel extract inhibited starch absorption in mice at doses that were compatible with its inhibitory action on the α-amylase. No inhibition of starch absorption was found with cyanidin-3-O-glucoside doses compatible with its content in the extract. The extract also inhibited triglyceride absorption, but at doses that were considerably smaller than those predicted by its strength in inhibiting the pancreatic lipase (ID50 = 3.65 mg kg-1). In this case, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside was also strongly inhibitory, with 72% inhibition at the dose of 2 mg kg-1. When oleate + glycerol were given to mice, both the peel extract and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside strongly inhibited the appearance of triglycerides in the plasma. The main mechanism seems, thus, not to be the lipase inhibition but rather the inhibition of one or more steps (e.g., transport) in the events that lead to the transformation of free fatty acids in the intestinal tract into triglycerides. Due to the low active doses, the jabuticaba peel extract presents many favourable perspectives as an inhibitor of fat absorption and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside seems to play a decisive role.

Could fruits be a reliable source of food colorants? Pros and cons of these natural additives.

Color additives are important for the food industry to improve sensory quality lost during food process and to expand the variety of products. In general, artificial colorants have lower cost and better stability than the natural ones. Nevertheless, studies have reported their association with some health disorders. Furthermore, consumers have given greater attention to food products with health beneficial effects, which has provided a new perspective for the use of natural colorants. In this context, fruits are an excellent alternative source of natural compounds, that allow the obtainment of a wide range of colorant molecules, such as anthocyanins, betalains, carotenoids, and chlorophylls. Furthermore, in addition to their coloring ability, they comprise different bioactive properties. However, the extraction and application of natural colorants from fruits is still a challenge, since these compounds show some stability problems, in addition to issues related to the sustainability of raw-materials providing. To overcome these limitations, several studies have reported optimized extraction and stabilization procedures. In this review, the major pigments found in fruits and their extraction and stabilization techniques for uses as food additives will be looked over.

Phenolic compounds: current industrial applications, limitations and future challenges.

Phenolic compounds are natural bioactive molecules found mainly in plant tissues that have shown interesting bioactivities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities, among others, which has led to great interest in their use by several industries. However, despite the large number of scientific studies on this topic, some issues still need to be studied and solved, such as the understanding of the main actions of these compounds in organisms. Besides their large potential applicability in industry, phenolic compounds still face some issues making it necessary to develop strategies to improve bioavailability, sustainable technologies of extraction and refinement, and stability procedures to increase the range of applicability. This review focuses on the most recent advances in the applications of phenolic compounds in different technological and medicinal areas. In addition, techniques to improve their sustainable resourcing, stability and bioavailability will be presented and discussed.

Food Bioactive Compounds and Emerging Techniques for Their Extraction: Polyphenols as a Case Study.

Experimental studies have provided convincing evidence that food bioactive compounds (FBCs) have a positive biological impact on human health, exerting protective effects against non-communicable diseases (NCD) including cancer and cardiovascular (CVDs), metabolic, and neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). These benefits have been associated with the presence of secondary metabolites, namely polyphenols, glucosinolates, carotenoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, vitamins, and fibres, among others, derived from their antioxidant, antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antithrombotic, cardioprotective, and vasodilator properties. Polyphenols as one of the most abundant classes of bioactive compounds present in plant-based foods emerge as a promising approach for the development of efficacious preventive agents against NCDs with reduced side effects. The aim of this review is to present comprehensive and deep insights into the potential of polyphenols, from their chemical structure classification and biosynthesis to preventive effects on NCDs, namely cancer, CVDs, and NDDS. The challenge of polyphenols bioavailability and bioaccessibility will be explored in addition to useful industrial and environmental applications. Advanced and emerging extraction techniques will be highlighted and the high-resolution analytical techniques used for FBCs characterization, identification, and quantification will be considered.

Anthocyanin-rich extract of jabuticaba epicarp as a natural colorant: Optimization of heat- and ultrasound-assisted extractions and application in a bakery product.

Heat- and ultrasound-assisted extractions of anthocyanins from jabuticaba epicarp were optimized and the colouring potential of the developed extract was tested on macarons. The independent variables time (t), solvent concentration (S), and temperature (T) or power (P) were combined in a five-level central composite design coupled with response surface methodology. The delphinidin-3-O-glucoside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside levels monitored by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS were used as response criteria. The developed models were successfully fitted to the experimental data and used to determine optimal extraction conditions. HAE was the most efficient method yielding 81 ± 2 mg/g extract under optimal conditions (t = 21.8 min, T = 47.1 °C and S = 9.1% ethanol, v/v). Macarons were then produced using the optimized anthocyanin-rich colouring extract and their colour parameters and nutritional profile were monitored during shelf-life. The obtained results provided useful information for the development of anthocyanin-rich extracts from a bio-waste with potential use as natural food colorants.

Jabuticaba residues (Myrciaria jaboticaba (Vell.) Berg) are rich sources of valuable compounds with bioactive properties.

Jabuticaba (Myrciaria jaboticaba (Vell.) Berg) is a Brazilian berry, very appreciated for in natura consumption. However, its epicarp is not normally consumed due to its stiffness and astringent taste, and in manufacture of products from jabuticaba fruit, it is responsible for the generation of large amounts of residues. The exploration of by-products is becoming important for the obtainment of valuable bioactive compounds for food and pharmaceutical industries. In this context, jabuticaba epicarp was studied regarding its chemical composition, namely in terms of phenolic compounds, tocopherols, and organic acids, and its bioactive properties, such as antioxidant, anti-proliferate, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. A total of sixteen phenolic compounds, four tocopherols and six organic acids were identified in jabuticaba epicarp. Regarding bioactive properties, it showed high antioxidant activity, also presenting moderate anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and antimicrobial activities. The extract did not present hepatotoxicity, confirming the possibility of its applications without toxicity issues.

By-Products of Camu-Camu [Myrciaria dubia (Kunth) McVaugh] as Promising Sources of Bioactive High Added-Value Food Ingredients: Functionalization of Yogurts.

Camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia (Kunth) McVaugh) is a fruit economically relevant to the Amazon region, mostly consumed in the form of processed pulp. Our aim was to perform an unprecedented comparative study on the chemical composition and bioactivities of the camu-camu pulp and industrial bio-residues (peel and seed), and then the most promising fruit part was further explored as a functionalized ingredient in yogurt. A total of twenty-three phenolic compounds were identified, with myricetin-O-pentoside and cyanindin-3-O-glucoside being the main compounds in peels, followed by p-coumaroyl hexoside in the pulp, and ellagic acid in the seeds. The peel displayed the richest phenolic profile among samples, as well as the most significant antibacterial (MICs = 0.625-10 mg/mL) and anti-proliferative (GI50 = 180 µg/mL against HeLa cells) activities. For this reason, it was selected to be introduced in a food system (yogurt). Taken together, our results suggest the possibility of using the camu-camu peel as a source of food additives.

Recovery of bioactive compounds from Arbutus unedo L. fruits: Comparative optimization study of maceration/microwave/ultrasound extraction techniques.

The aim of this work was to produce an extract rich in different bioactive compounds from Arbutus unedo L. fruits to enhance its possible valorization and commercialization. The conditions of the main variables of maceration, microwave, and ultrasound assisted extractions (MA, MAE and UAE, respectively) were optimized and compared in terms of its composition (based on the total material extracted, total content in carbohydrates, phenolic and flavonoid compounds) and its preservative potential (based on the response of four in vitro antioxidant assays). The key variables of each extraction technique (time, temperature or power and hydroalcoholic mixture) were evaluated by specific experimental designs using response surface methodology. Mathematical models were developed and numerical optimal values for each extraction technique and response were achieved. Regarding the extraction of target compositional compounds, MAE was the most efficient, closely followed by MA. In terms of its preservative potential, MAE was the most suitable solution, but MA gave similar results at lower temperatures (~90 °C). Globally, MA and MAE were the best options conducting to optimal solutions using reduced amounts of ethanol. UAE required higher ethanol contents (~60%). The results showed alternatives to obtain extracts of A. unedo fruits, supporting their potential to be exploited at industrial level.

Técnica operatória: conceitos básicos para acadêmicos / Operative technique: basic concepts for academics

Introdução: Devido à popularidade da Cirurgia Plástica nos dias atuais, bem como ao avanço e ao aprimoramento das técnicas cirúrgicas, torna-se necessária a participação de acadêmicos que, por meio de cursos práticos, promovem aquisição e atualização de importantes fundamentos dessa área. Objetivos: Oferecer aos acadêmicos noções básicas sobre diferentes técnicas cirúrgicas essenciais. Metodologia: É realizada aula teórica ministrada por um residente do Serviço de Cirurgia Plástica do Hospital São Lucas, com duração de 90 minutos, baseada em material didático. Após, é realizada aula prática composta por 4 estações, com um orientador em casa mesa, onde são desenvolvidas as técnicas cirúrgicas de antissepsia, paramentação, instrumentação e sutura. Resultados: A antissepsia cirúrgica consiste no processo de escovação pré-operatória. A paramentação consiste na vestimenta adequada de diversos utensílios para a realização de procedimentos no bloco cirúrgico. Na instrumentação cirúrgica, são apresentados os instrumentos que devem ser utilizados e quando devem ser utilizados no ato cirúrgico. A sutura tem como função o fechamento dos espaços mortos e a sustentação das feridas. O método apresentado é o ponto simples. Conclusão: O curso cumpre com o propósito de preparar o acadêmico não só para as atividades realizadas no bloco, como também para atividades que antecedem a cirurgia.

Introduction: Due to the popularity of Plastic Surgery today, as well as the advancement and improvement of surgical techniques, it is necessary the participation of academics who, through practical courses, promote the acquisition and updating of important foundations of this area. Objectives: To provide to the academics the basic knowledge of different essential surgical techniques. Methodology: Theoretical lecture given by a resident of the Plastic Surgery Service of the Hospital São Lucas, which lasts 90 minutes, is based on didactic material. After that, a practical class composed of 4 stations is carried out, where the surgical techniques of antisepsis, paramentation, instrumentation and suture are developed. Results: The surgical antisepsis consists of the preoperative brushing process. Paramentation consists of the adequate dressing of several utensils for the accomplishment of procedures in the surgical block. In the surgical instrumentation, the instruments that must be used and when they should be used in the surgical act are presented. The suture has as function the closure of the dead spaces and the sustentation of the wounds. The method presented is the simple point. Conclusion: The course accomplish the purpose of preparing the academic not only for the activities carried out in the block, but also for activities that precede the surgery.