Activation of NOS-cGMP pathways promotes stress-induced sensitization of behavioral responses in zebrafish.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a molecule involved in plasticity across levels and systems. The role of NOergic pathways in stress-induced sensitization (SIS) of behavioral responses, in which a particular stressor triggers a state of hyper-responsiveness to other stressors after an incubation period, was assessed in adult zebrafish. In this model, adult zebrafish acutely exposed to a fear-inducing conspecific alarm substance (CAS) and left undisturbed for an incubation period show increased anxiety-like behavior 24 h after exposure. CAS increased forebrain glutamate immediately after stress and 30 min after stress, an effect that was accompanied by increased nitrite levels immediately after stress, 30 min after stress, 90 min after stress, and 24 h after stress. CAS also increased nitrite levels in the head kidney, where cortisol is produced in zebrafish. CAS-elicited nitrite responses in the forebrain 90 min (but not 30 min) after stress were prevented by a NOS-2 blocker. Blocking NOS-1 30 min after stress prevents SIS; blocking NOS-2 90 min after stress also prevents stress-induced sensitization, as does blocking calcium-activated potassium channels in this latter time window. Stress-induced sensitization is also prevented by blocking guanylate cyclase activation in both time windows, and cGMP-dependent channel activation in the second time window. These results suggest that different NO-related pathways converge at different time windows of the incubation period to induce stress-induced sensitization.

Cross-linked cellulose beads as an eco-friendly support for ZnO/SnO2/carbon xerogel hybrid photocatalyst: Exploring the synergy between adsorption and photocatalysis under simulated sunlight.

This paper explores the application of cross-linked cellulose beads as a sustainable and cost-effective support for the ZnO/SnO2/carbon xerogel hybrid photocatalyst. The application of the developed photocatalytic beads, named CB-Cat, was directed at a simultaneous adsorption/photocatalysis process, which was carried out under simulated sunlight. The characterization of the CB-Cat indicated a good dispersion of the photocatalyst of choice throughout the cellulose matrix, confirming its incorporation into the cellulose beads. Furthermore, it is possible to observe the presence of the photocatalyst on the surface of the CB-Cat, confirming its availability for the photonic activation process. The results showed that the simultaneous adsorption/photocatalysis process was optimal for enhancing the efficiency of methylene blue (MB) removal, especially when compared to the isolated adsorption process. Additionally, the regeneration of the CB-Cat between cycles was favorable toward the maintenance of the MB removal efficiency, as the process carried out without regeneration displayed significant efficiency drops between cycles. Finally, the mechanism evaluation evidenced that hydroxyl and superoxide radicals were the main responsible for the MB photocatalytic degradation during illumination with simulated sunlight.

Use of Phototherapy and Er-YAG Laser in the Management of Mandible Osteoradionecrosis: A Case Report.

Introduction: Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a secondary complication from radiotherapy, which is difficult to manage and significantly reduces the life quality of the affected patients. Case Report: A 59-year-old female patient, diagnosed with infiltration by squamous cell carcinoma in the left cervical region, underwent adjuvant cervical-facial radiotherapy with a total dose of 66.6 Gy of radiation. Eight years after the diagnosis, the patient underwent multiple extractions and, subsequently, the installation of osseointegrated implants, evolving to extensive intraoral bone exposure associated with oral cutaneous fistula. The patient was initially exposed to photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), with a low-power laser at wavelengths of 660 nm and 808 nm, and thereafter to antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). After an improvement in the clinical condition and resolution of the oral cutaneous fistula, a surgical procedure with the Er: YAG laser was performed to remove the remaining necrotic bone. Once the ORN condition was completely treated, the patient's oral rehabilitation was implemented by the installation of an upper mucous-supported total prosthesis and a lower implant-supported prosthesis. Conclusion: The patient is in a clinical follow-up and has no signs of bone necrosis recurrence, suggesting that low and high-power laser treatment can be an effective therapeutic alternative to resolve this condition.

Development of a magnetically stabilized fluidized bed bioreactor for enzymatic synthesis of 2-ethylhexyl oleate.

This study aimed to develop and investigate the synthesis of 2-ethylhexyl oleate catalyzed by Candida antarctica lipase immobilized on magnetic poly(styrene-co-divinylbenzene) (STY-DVB-M) particles in a magnetically stabilized fluidized bed reactor (MSFBR) operated in continuous mode. The physical properties of the copolymer were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The glass transition temperature was 85.68 °C, and the onset of thermal degradation occurred at 406.66 °C. Syntheses were performed at 50 °C using a space time of 12 h and a bed porosity of 0.892. Assays were conducted to assess the influence of magnetic field intensity (5 to 15 mT) on reaction yield, ester concentration, and productivity. The highest productivity was 0.850 ± 0.023 mmol g-1 h-1, obtained with a magnetic field intensity of 15 mT. An operational stability test was performed under these conditions, revealing a biocatalyst half-life of 2148 h (179 operation cycles) and a thermal deactivation constant of 3.23 × 10-4 h-1 (R2 = 0.9446). Computational simulations and mathematical modeling were performed using Scilab based on ping-pong bi-bi kinetics and molar balances of reaction species. The model provided consistent results of interstitial velocity and good prediction of reaction yields, with R2 = 0.926. These findings demonstrate that the studied technique can provide improvements in biocatalytic processes, representing a promising strategy for the enzymatic synthesis of 2-ethylhexyl oleate.

Contributions of telesimulation to the knowledge of mothers about foreign body airway obstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the contributions of telesimulation to the knowledge of mothers faced with foreign body airway obstruction in children under 1 year of age and identify the related factors. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study of the pre- and post-test design carried out between April and September 2021 with 49 mothers from a city in São Paulo. It was organized into four stages: pre-test, telesimulation, immediate and late post-test (60 days later). All steps were carried out remotely via the free online platform Google Hangouts® and Google Forms®. Data analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in the knowledge score between the assessments (p<0.001). Statistically significant relationships were identified between pre-test knowledge and choking experience (p=0.012), promotion of immediate knowledge and another child's choking (p=0.040) and schooling (p=0.006) and promotion of late knowledge with occupation (p=0.012) and choking of another child (p=0.011). CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant improvement in knowledge after telesimulation, especially among those who had never experienced a choking situation and had a higher level of education.

Jogo de tabuleiro para crianças com autismo: desenvolvendo autonomia e habilidades sociais / Board game for children with autism: developing autonomy and social skills

This is a methodological study that aimed to develop a board game to develop autonomy and social skills in children with autism. The game's development was supported by the toy library of the Hospital Universitário Júlio Bandeira [Julio Bandeira University Hospital]. Models were collected through an integrative review and an interview with mothers of autistic children. The game was based on methods extracted from articles, from the Picture Exchange Communication System, Social Stories, and the difficulties encountered during the interview. It has a board with 32 squares, 22 cards (three different models), one die, and small cars used to advance through the squares on the board. Due to their playful nature, board games have the potential to be used by children with autism to develop autonomy and social skills. It was concluded that the production of care-educational technologies aimed at the autistic public is essential for cognitive and social development.

Trata-se de estudo metodológico que objetivou elaborar um jogo de tabuleiro para desenvolver a autonomia e as habilidades sociais nas crianças com autismo. A produção do jogo contou com o apoio da brinquedoteca do Hospital Universitário Júlio Bandeira. Captaram-se modelos mediante uma revisão integrativa e uma entrevista com mães de crianças autistas. O jogo se baseou nos métodos extraídos dos artigos, no Picture Exchange Communication System, nas Histórias Sociais e nas dificuldades encontradas na entrevista. Ele conta com um tabuleiro de 32 casas, 22 cartas (3 modelos diferentes), 1 dado e carrinhos utilizados para avançar as casas do tabuleiro. Devido ao seu caráter lúdico, os jogos de tabuleiro têm potencial de ser usados por crianças com autismo para desenvolver a autonomia e habilidades sociais. Concluiu-se que a produção de tecnologias cuidativo-educacionais voltadas para o público autista é fundamental para o desenvolvimento cognitivo e social.

Use of Calotropis procera cysteine peptidases (CpCPs) immobilized on glyoxyl-agarose for cheesemaking.

Calotropis procera cysteine peptidases (CpCPs) have presented several potential biotechnological applications. Here, these enzymes were immobilized on glyoxyl-agarose (glyoxyl-CpCPs) with yields of 90-95 % and the recovered activities ranged from 10 % to 15 %, according to enzyme loadings (5, 10, 20, 40, and 50 mgBSAeq/g). Spectrophotometric assays and SDS-PAGE showed that the casein hydrolysis by glyoxyl-CpCPs was similar to soluble CpCPs. In addition, glyoxyl-CpCPs exhibited similar ratio of milk-clotting activity to proteolytic activity in comparison with soluble CpCPs and chymosin. Even after being stored for six months at 8 °C, the residual proteolytic activity of glyoxyl-CpCPs remained close to 100 %. Atomic force microscopy and dynamic light scattering techniques showed that the process of casein micelle aggregation after treatment with glyoxyl-CpCPs was very similar to its soluble form and chymosin. Glyoxyl-CpCPs performed well after five reaction cycles, producing cheeses with yield, moisture, protein, and fat similar to those produced with chymosin.

Contributions of telesimulation to the knowledge of mothers about foreign body airway obstruction / Aportes de la telesimulaciónem el conocimiento de las madres ante La obstrucción de lãsvías aéreas por cuerpoextraño / Contribuições da telessimulação no conhecimento de mães diante obstrução de vias aéreas por corpo estranho

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the contributions of telesimulation to the knowledge of mothers faced with foreign body airway obstruction in children under 1 year of age and identify the related factors. Methods: A quasi-experimental study of the pre- and post-test design carried out between April and September 2021 with 49 mothers from a city in São Paulo. It was organized into four stages: pre-test, telesimulation, immediate and late post-test (60 days later). All steps were carried out remotely via the free online platform Google Hangouts® and Google Forms®. Data analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics. Results: There was a significant difference in the knowledge score between the assessments (p<0.001). Statistically significant relationships were identified between pre-test knowledge and choking experience (p=0.012), promotion of immediate knowledge and another child's choking (p=0.040) and schooling (p=0.006) and promotion of late knowledge with occupation (p=0.012) and choking of another child (p=0.011). Conclusions: There was a significant improvement in knowledge after telesimulation, especially among those who had never experienced a choking situation and had a higher level of education.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar las contribuciones de la telesimulación en el conocimiento de las madres en situación de obstrucción de las vias respiratorias por cuerpo extraño em niños menores de un año e identificar los factores relacionados. Métodos: Estudio cuasi-experimental del tipo pre y post test realizado entre abril y septiembre de 2021 con 49 madres de un municipio de São Paulo. Se organizo en cuatro etapas: pretest, telesimulación, pos test inmediato y tardío (60 días después). Todos los trámites se realizaron de forma remota a través de la plataforma en línea gratuita Google Hangouts® y Google Forms®. Datos analizados por estadística descriptiva y analítica. Resultados: Hubo diferencia significativa en la puntuación de conocimiento entre las evaluaciones (p<0,001). Se identificaron relaciones estadísticamente significativas entre pretest conocimiento y experiencia de atragantamiento (p=0,012), promoción de conocimiento inmediato con otro atragantamiento (p=0,040) y escolaridad (p=0,006) y promoción de conocimiento tardio con ocupación (p=0,012). y asfixia por outro niño (p=0,011). Conclusiones: Hubo una mejora significativa en el conocimiento después de la telesimulación, especialmente entre aquellos que nunca habían experimentado una situación de atragantamiento y tenían un mayor nivel de educación.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar as contribuições da telessimulação no conhecimento de mães diante situação de obstrução de vias aéreas por corpo estranho em crianças menores de um ano e identificar os fatores relacionados. Métodos: Estudo quase experimental do tipo pré e pós-teste realizado entre abril e setembro de 2021 com 49 mães de um município paulista. Foi organizado em quatro etapas: pré-teste, telessimulação, pós-teste imediato e tardio (60 dias após). Todas as etapas foram conduzidas remotamente via plataforma on-line de acesso livre Google Hangouts® e Google Forms®. Os dados foram analisados por estatística descritiva e analítica. Resultados: Houve diferença significativa na pontuação de conhecimento entre as avaliações (p<0,001). Foram identificadas relações estatisticamente significativas entre conhecimento pré-teste e experiência de engasgo (p=0,012), promoção do conhecimento imediato com engasgo de outra criança (p=0,040) e escolaridade (p=0,006) e promoção do conhecimento tardio com ocupação (p=0,012) e engasgo de outra criança (p=0,011). Conclusões: Houve melhora significativa no conhecimento após telessimulação, especialmente entre aquelas que nunca vivenciaram situação de engasgo e com maior escolaridade.

Psychotic relapses from the perspective of patients and family members.

This qualitative study was carried out with 10 dyads of patients-family members to explore their perception about psychotic relapses. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview from April to August 2019, in Brazil, and analyzed using the thematic analysis proposed by Braun & Clark. Four main themes emerged from the interviews: (1) defining and describing the psychotic relapses; (2) risk factors for psychotic relapse; (3) protective factors for psychotic relapse; and (4) early warning signs: identification of an episode of psychotic relapse. Exploring the perception of patients with psychotic disorders and their families about relapse is fundamental for the development of relapse risk assessment tools and to guide further research on this topic.

Bioprospecting by Phage Display of Mimetic Peptides of Chlamydia trachomatis for Use in Laboratory Diagnosis.

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis infection is a major public health problem and the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. Although highly prevalent, 70% to 80% of cases are asymptomatic and undiagnosed. Purpose: To overcome some limitations in terms of rapid diagnosis, phage display technology was used to bioprospect peptide mimetics of C. trachomatis immunoreactive and immunogenic antigens to be selected for the production of synthetic peptides. Methods: Initially, IgG from 22 individuals with C. trachomatis and 30 negative controls was coupled to G protein magnetic beads. The phage display technique consisted of biopanning, genetic sequencing, bioinformatics analysis and phage ELISA. Results: Clones G1, H5, C6 and H7 were selected for testing with individual samples positive and negative for C. trachomatis. Reactions were statistically significant (p < 0.05), with a sensitivity of 90.91, a specificity of 54.55, and AUC values >0.8. One-dimensional analysis with C. trachomatis components indicated that the G1 clone aligned with cell wall-associated hydrolase domain-containing protein, the H5 clone aligned with glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase PlsX protein, the C6 clone aligned with a transposase and inactivated derivatives, and the H7 clone aligned with GTP-binding protein. Molecular modeling and three-dimensional analysis indicated the best fit of the four clones with a protein known as chlamydial protease/proteasome-like activity factor (CPAF), an important virulence factor of the bacterium. Conclusion: The peptides produced by phage display are related to the metabolic pathways of C. trachomatis, indicating that they can be used to understand the pathogenesis of the infection. Because of their high sensitivity and AUC values, the peptides present considerable potential for use in platforms for screening C. trachomatis infections.

Structural Analysis Revealed the Interaction of Cardenolides from Calotropis procera with Na+/K+ ATPases from Herbivores.

BACKGROUND: The herbivores Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera), Oncopeltus fasciatus, and Aphis nerii (Hemiptera) are special insects that feed on Calotropis procera (Apocynaceae) (Sodom Apple). At least 35 chemically distinct cardenolides have been reported in C. procera. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the interaction between cardenolides and Na+/K+ ATPases from herbivores. METHODS: The Na+/K+ ATPases from these insects were modeled, and docking studies were performed involving cardenolides from C. procera. RESULTS: The replacement of serine in sensitive Na+/K+ ATPase by histidine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine in the structures examined suggested spatial impairment caused by interaction, probably making the herbivorous insects resistant against the cardenolides of C. procera. In addition, the ability of the insects to avoid cardenolide toxicity was not correlated with cardenolide polarity. Therefore, the plant fights predation through molecular diversity, and the insects, regardless of their taxonomy, face this molecular diversity through amino acid replacements at key positions of the enzyme targeted by the cardenolides. CONCLUSION: The results show the arsenal of chemically distinct cardenolides synthesized by the C. procera.

E quando o namoro chega ao fim?: um estudo exploratório sobre a experiência do término do namoro entre jovens universitários / When dating comes to an end: An exploratory study on the experience of breaking up among university students / ¿Y cuándo el noviazgo llega a su fin?: Un estudio exploratório sobre la experiencia de rupturas amorosas entre universitarios

This study aims to understand how young people experience the end of romantic relationships nowadays, as well as the consequences of this event in the youth bonding experiences. This qualitative research relied on semi-structured interviews as a method for data collection, which was analyzed through an articulation of the discussions and studies about romantic relationships in contemporaneity with theories from Psychoanalysis. Six college students aged between 18 and 21 were interviewed, who had already gone through the experience of breaking up. Through this study, we observed that dating is experienced by young people as an exclusive form of love bond, involving mutual commitment and care which offers a sense of security, refuge and protection in the face of adversities experienced in their everyday relationships. A breakup, on the other hand, may happen due to difficulties in sharing with the other or tolerating frustrations, and leads them to a grieving process that exposes them to pain, helplessness and loneliness, requiring effort to elaborate and reconfigure the cathexis, during which the help and support of one's friendships and familiar connections have shown to be of great importance.

El presente trabajo busca comprender la vivencia de los jóvenes al finalizar una relación de noviazgo en la actualidad, así como también, los sentidos de este proceso en las experiencias vinculares de la juventud. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa, que utilizó la entrevista semi-estructurada como instrumento de recolección de datos, los cuales fueron analizados a partir de la articulación de las discusiones y los estudios sobre relaciones amorosas en la actualidad, con los apuntes del Psicoanálisis. Se entrevistó a seis estudiantes universitarios con edades entre 18 y 21 años, que ya habían pasado por la experiencia de la ruptura.A lo largo del estudio, se observó que la vivencia del noviazgo para los jóvenes es como un vínculo amoroso exclusivo, de compromiso y cuidado mutuo, esto les brinda una sensación de seguridad, refugio y protección ante las dificultades vividas en sus relaciones cotidianas. La finalización de un noviazgo ocurre como consecuencia a las dificultades para compartir con el otro o la tolerancia a la frustración, esto conduce a un proceso de duelo que los coloca ante el dolor, el desamparo y la soledad, exigiendo un trabajo de elaboración, re-configuración de inversión, en donde el apoyo y soporte vincular de donde están inseridos es de gran importancia.

Elongated Styloid Process in Panoramic Radiographs / Processo Estilóide Alongado nas Radiografias Panorâmicas

The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of the elongated styloid process in panoramic radiographic exams, in a subpopulation of northern Brazil in relation to age, sex and side. Panoramic radiographs were selected, and the apparent size of the styloid process was measured from the point where the styloid leaves the tympanic plate to the tip of the process. The data were analyzed using chi-square tests and variance analysis with a 5% significance level. Approximately 30% of the elongated styloid process was observed in patients between 18 to 35 years. Of the styloid processes that measured more than 30 mm (elongated), 764 styloid processes (81%) showed Type I elongation pattern, 97 styloid processes (10%) showed Type II calcification patterns, and 85 styloid processes (9%) showed Type III calcification patterns. The prevalence of the elongated styloid process was high, and no statistically significant correlation was found between the presence of the elongated styloid process and the variables studied. (AU)

O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a prevalência do processo estilóide alongado em exames radiográficos panorâmicos, em uma subpopulação do norte do Brasil em relação à idade, sexo e lado. Radiografias panorâmicas foram selecionadas, e tamanho aparente do processo estilóide foi medido a partir do ponto em que o estilóide deixa a placa timpânica até a ponta do processo. Os dados foram analisados por meio de testes qui-quadrado e análise de variância com nível de significância de 5%. Aproximadamente 73% do processo estilóide alongado foi observado em pacientes entre 18 e 53 anos (p <0,05). Dos processos estilóides que mediram mais de 30 mm (alongados), 543 processos estiloide (82,9%) mostraram padrão de alongamento do Tipo I, 33 processos estiloide (5,03%) mostraram padrões de calcificação do Tipo II, e 79 processos estilóide (12,06%) mostraram padrões de calcificação do Tipo III. A prevalência do processo estilóide alongado foi alta e não foi encontrada correlação estatisticamente significante entre a presença do processo estilóide alongado e as variáveis estudadas. (AU)

Atendimento em enfermaria psiquiátrica: concepções dos profissionais de saúde / Asistencia en un servicio de psiquiatría en hospital: concepciones de los profesionales de la salud / Attendance in psychiatric ward: healthcare professionals' conceptions

Buscou-se compreender as concepções de profissionais de uma enfermaria psiquiátrica referentes à organização do serviço e terapêutica oferecida, no que tange a aproximações e distanciamentos dos ideais da Reforma Psiquiátrica. A abordagem foi qualitativa e o tratamento dos dados baseou-se na técnica de Análise de Conteúdo Temática. Aplicou-se um questionário aberto, com temáticas referentes ao tratamento oferecido, planejamento e avaliação das ações, participação do usuário em seu tratamento, continuidade da assistência após a internação e a percepção dos profissionais sobre a enfermaria psiquiátrica. Participaram sete profissionais, sendo eles da área da enfermagem, psicologia, serviço social, terapia ocupacional e psiquiatria. De acordo com os resultados, os profissionais têm incorporado conceitos da Reforma Psiquiátrica; no entanto, encontram impasses, pois o cuidado ainda se mostra fragmentado e há espaços subutilizados para a comunicação da equipe. É essencial repensar formas de otimização do trabalho em equipe multiprofissional, com o propósito de proporcionar um cuidado integral.(AU)

This study intended to understand the psychiatric ward professionals' conceptions concerning the organization of the provided service and therapeutics, with respect to the approach and distancing from the Psychiatric Reform ideals. The qualitative approach was adopted and the data was processed by using the Thematic Content Analysis. The data collection was performed by applying an open questionnaire, approaching themes related to the treatment, planning and evaluation of the actions, participation of the user in his/her treatment, continuity of the assistance after the admission period and professionals' perception about the psychiatric ward. The sample comprised seven professionals from the nursing, psychology, social service, occupational area and psychiatry areas. According to the results, the professionals have incorporated concepts resulting from the psychiatric reform; however, they find impasses, once the care is still fragmented and there are underused spaces for the team communication. With this respect, it would be important to rethink the multiprofessional team work optimization ways in order to provide an integral care.(AU)

Se buscó comprender las concepciones de los profesionales de un pabellón psiquiátrico sobre la organización del servicio y la terapia ofrecida, en cuanto a enfoques y distancias de los ideales de la Reforma Psiquiátrica. El enfoque fue cualitativo y el procesamiento de datos se basó en la técnica de Análisis de Contenido Temático. Se aplicó un cuestionario abierto, con temas relacionados con el tratamiento ofrecido, la planificación y evaluación de las acciones, la participación del usuario en su tratamiento, la continuidad de la atención tras la hospitalización y la percepción de los profesionales sobre el servicio de psiquiatría. Participaron siete profesionales de las áreas de enfermería, psicología, trabajo social, terapia ocupacional y psiquiatría. Según los resultados, los profesionales han incorporado conceptos de Reforma Psiquiátrica; sin embargo, se enfrentan a un callejón sin salida, ya que la atención aún está fragmentada y hay espacios infrautilizados para la comunicación del equipo. Es fundamental repensar formas de optimizar el trabajo en equipo multidisciplinario, con el propósito de brindar una atención integral.(AU)

Continuous production of monoacylglycerol via glycerolysis of babassu oil by immobilized Burkholderia cepacia lipase in a packed bed reactor.

This study investigated the glycerolysis of babassu oil by Burkholderia cepacia lipase immobilized on SiO2-PVA particles in a continuous packed bed reactor. Experiments were conducted in a solvent-free system at 273.15 K either in an inert atmosphere or in the presence of cocoa butter to prevent lipid oxidation. The reactor (15 × 55 mm) was run at a fixed space time of 9.8 h using different molar ratios of babassu oil to glycerol (1:3, 1:6, 1:9, 1:12, and 1:15) to assess the effects of reactant molar ratio on monoacylglycerol productivity and selectivity. Nitrogen atmosphere and cocoa butter were equally effective in inhibiting lipid oxidation, indicating that addition of cocoa butter to glycerolysis reactions may be an interesting cost-reduction strategy. An oil/glycerol molar ratio of 1:9 resulted in the highest productivity (52.3 ± 2.9 mg g-1 h-1) and selectivity (31.5 ± 1.8%). Residence time distribution data were fitted to an axial dispersion model for closed-vessel boundary conditions, giving a mass transfer coefficient (kc) of 3.4229 × 10-6 m s-1. A kinetic model based on elementary steps of the studied reaction was written in Scilab and compared with experimental data, providing standard deviations in the range of 5.5-7.5%.

Family environment and depressive episode are associated with relapse after first-episode psychosis.

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Relapse rates are high among patients who have experienced first-episode psychosis (FEP). Psychotic relapses are associated with worse quality of life and poorer functionality of the FEP patient. The use of psychoactive substances, non-adherence to drug treatment, and high expressed emotion (EE) are notable predictors of relapse after the FEP. Although some studies have suggested that psychotic relapse may be associated with a family environment with high levels of emotional over-involvement (EOI), this finding is still inconsistent across different cultures. EE specific components must be evaluated and interpreted according to the context of cultural norms. There is a scarcity of studies on the role of depression in the occurrence of relapses after the FEP, and the results remain uncertain. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: This study explored the predictors of psychotic relapses in Brazilian patients who experienced FEP. Our results indicate that 29.2% of the patients relapsed after the FEP. Patients diagnosed with depression and high-EOI in the family environment were predictors of psychotic relapses in this population. This study expands knowledge about the cultural specificity of EOI and the role of depression in psychotic relapse. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Nursing professionals must consider the implications of the family environment and depression in the course of psychosis. Family interventions and the appropriate treatment of depression are important for improving the prognosis of FEP patients. ABSTRACT: Introduction Psychotic relapse may be associated with relatives' high emotional over-involvement (EOI) and with a diagnosis of major depressive episode (MDE) among first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients, but the results are still inconsistent across different cultures. Aim Evaluate the predictors of relapse in FEP patients. Method Prospective cohort study with 6-month follow-up conducted with 65 dyads of patients and relatives from an early intervention unit in Brazil. At the baseline interview, relatives answered to a sociodemographic data form and to the Family Questionnaire. Patients provided sociodemographic and clinical data and answered the Measurement of Treatment Adherence; the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test; the Severity of Dependence Scale to assess cannabis dependence, and the MDE module of the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. Psychotic relapses were evaluated using items from the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. The data were analysed using multiple logistic regression. Results 29.2% of the patients presented at least one psychotic relapse. High-EOI and MDE were predictors of psychotic relapses. Discussion Our findings expand the knowledge about the cultural specificity of EOI and the role of depression in psychotic relapse. Implications for practice Family nursing interventions and the appropriate treatment of MDE must be considered in the care of FEP patients.

Yeast communities associated with cacti in Brazil and the description of Kluyveromyces starmeri sp. nov. based on phylogenomic analyses.

Yeast communities associated with cacti were studied in three ecosystems of Southeast, Central and North Brazil. A total of 473 yeast strains belonging to 72 species were isolated from 190 samples collected. Cactophilic yeast species were prevalent in necrotic tissues, flowers, fruits and insects of cacti collected in Southeast and North Brazil. Pichia cactophila, Candida sonorensis and species of the Sporopachydermia complex were the most prevalent cactophilic species in Southeast and Central regions. Kodamaea nitidulidarum, Candida restingae and Wickerhamiella cacticola were frequently associated with cactus flowers and fruits. The diversity of yeasts associated with the substrates studied was high. Twenty-one novel species were found. One is described here as Kluyveromyces starmeri sp. nov. based on 21 isolates obtained from necrotic tissues, flowers, fruits and associated insects of the columnar cacti Cereus saddianus, Micranthocereus dolichospermaticus and Pilosocereus arrabidae in two different ecosystems in Brazil. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences encoding the gene of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene, the internal transcribed spacer, the 5.8S rRNA gene and the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA showed that the species is related to Kluyveromyces dobzhanskii, Kluyveromyces lactis and Kluyveromyces marxianus. Phylogenomic analyses based on 1264 conserved genes shared among the new species and 19 other members of the Saccharomycetaceae confirmed this phylogenetic relationship. The holotype is K. starmeri sp. nov. CBS 16103T (=UFMG-CM-Y3682T ). The Mycobank number is MB 836817.

Antidermatophytic activity of synthetic peptides: Action mechanisms and clinical application as adjuvants to enhance the activity and decrease the toxicity of Griseofulvin.

BACKGROUND: Dermatophytes belonging to the Trichophyton genus are important human pathogens, but they have developed resistance to griseofulvin, the most common antifungal drug used to treat dermatophytosis. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed to evaluate the antidermatophytic activity of synthetic peptides, as well as mechanisms of action and synergistic effect with griseofulvin. METHODS: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and fluorescence microscopy (FM) were employed to understand the activity and the mechanism of action of peptides. RESULTS: Here we report that synthetic peptides at 50 µg/mL, a concentration 20-fold lower than griseofulvin, reduced the microconidia viability of T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum by 100%, whereas griseofulvin decreased their viability by only 50% and 0%, respectively. The action mechanism of peptides involved cell wall damage, membrane pore formation and loss of cytoplasmic content. Peptides also induced overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhanced the activity of griseofulvin 10-fold against both fungi, suggesting synergistic effects, and eliminated the toxicity of this drug to human erythrocytes. Docking analysis revealed ionic and hydrophobic interactions between peptides and griseofulvin, which may explain the decline of griseofulvin toxicity when mixed with peptides. CONCLUSION: Therefore, our results strongly suggest six peptides with high potential to be employed alone as new drugs or as adjuvants to enhance the activity and decrease the toxicity of griseofulvin.

Anti-inflammatory latex proteins of the medicinal plant Calotropis procera: a promising alternative for oral mucositis treatment.

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN: Oral mucositis (OM) is an intense inflammatory reaction progressing to tissue damage and ulceration. The medicinal uses of Calotropis procera are supported by anti-inflammatory capacity. PII-IAA, a highly homogenous cocktail of laticifer proteins (LP) prepared from the latex of C. procera, with recognized pharmacological properties was tested to treat OM. MATERIALS AND SUBJECTS: Male Golden Sirius hamsters were used in all treatments. TREATMENT: The latex protein samples were injected i.p. (5 mg/Kg) 24 h before mucositis induction (mechanical trauma) and 24 h later. METHODS: Histology, cytokine measurements [ELISA], and macroscopic evaluation [scores] were performed. RESULTS: PII-IAA eliminated OM, accompanied by total disappearance of myeloperoxidase activity and release of IL-1b, as well as reduced TNF-a. Oxidative stress was relieved by PII-IAA treatment, as revealed by MDA and GSH measurements. PII-IAA also reduced the expression of adhesion molecules (ICAM-1) and Iba-1, two important markers of inflammation, indicating modulatory effects. Histological analyses of the cheek epithelium revealed greater deposition of type I collagen fibers in animals given PII-IAA compared with the control group. This performance was only reached when LPPII was treated with iodoacetamide (IAA), an irreversible inhibitor of proteolytic activity of cysteine proteases. The endogenous proteolytic activity of LPPII induced adverse effects in animals. Candidate proteins involved in the phytomodulatory activity are proposed. CONCLUSIONS: Therapy was successful in treating OM with the laticifer protein fraction, containing peptidases and osmotin, from Calotropis procera. The effective candidate from the latex proteins for therapeutic use is PII-IAA.

Advanced Glycation End Product Inhibition by Alkaloids from Ocotea paranapiacabensis for the Prevention of Skin Aging.

A bioassay-guided study aiming at identifying inhibitors of the glycation process on the leaves of Ocotea paranapiacabensis afforded four benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (1-4), with 1 and 2 identified as new naturals products, while 3 and 4 were previously described in the literature, with 3 being identified as magnocurarine. Purification was performed by column chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic methods including UV, NMR, and HRMS. The process of skin aging has been recently associated with advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and strategies inhibiting their formation have been addressed by pharmaceutical companies for the development of novel antiaging compounds. Alkaloids 1-4 were evaluated for their potential to inhibit AGE formation and showed inhibition of 62.9%, 83.3%, 26.1%, and 98.2% (150 µM), respectively. The antiaging potential of compounds 1 and 4 were evaluated with a reconstructed human skin model in vitro, and results showed a decrease in dermis contraction (8.7% and 4.2% respectively for 1 and 4) when compared to the glycated control (57.4%). Additionally, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) and toxicity properties were predicted using in silico methods, and the results were considered significantly promising for alkaloids 1 and 4 to continue the development of these alkaloids with skincare properties.