Dielectric Characterization of Solutions of Galactomannan Extracted from Adenanthera pavonina L.: Effects of Purification and Ethanol Concentration.

Galactomannans are polysaccharides obtained from legume seed extraction. They present a chemical structure consisting of D-mannose chains linked by glycosidic bonds and galactose branches. The main focus lies in their use as thickeners in the food industry, aimed at improving the dielectric properties of food during heating processes within the radiofrequency and microwave ranges. In this work, the prepared galactomannan samples were electrically analyzed through impedance spectroscopy, which is a powerful physical technique. From the experimental measurements, the dielectric permittivity and loss tangent of the galactomannan solutions were analyzed and the electrical modulus formalism was used to study the dielectric relaxations. Crude galactomannans exhibited higher values of permittivity, conductivity, and losses compared to purified galactomannans. Increasing ethanol concentration in galactomannan purification causes an increase in the permittivity and conductivity of galactomannan solutions. In a 1% solution, at 1 kHz, the permittivity increased from 378.56 to 538.09, while in the 2% solution, this increase was from 656.22 to 1103.24. Regarding the conductivity, at the same frequency, the increase was from 1.6 × 10-3 to 3.3 × 10-3 Ω-1m-1 and from 2.9 × 10-3 to 5.5 × 10-3 Ω-1m-1, respectively. The rise of the ethanol concentration in galactomannan purification led to a decrease in the relaxation time, from 448.56 to 159.15 µs and from 224.81 to 89.50 µs in the solution with 1 and 2%, respectively. The results suggest that galactomannan from Adenanthera pavonina L. has potential for use in the food industry.

Modified Procedure for Simple and Rapid Collection of Zebrafish Fluid Samples for Biochemical Analyses.

This study addresses the challenge of collecting blood samples from zebrafish for biochemical analysis. Traditional methods are cumbersome due to low blood flow and rapid coagulation. Based on a previously published technique, we simplified the process by applying an anticoagulant solution directly to the incision site. The modified protocol involves immersing the fish in an ice bath, making a cross-sectional incision, and immediately applying anticoagulant solution. Centrifugation of the specimens provides a streamlined and efficient approach to zebrafish fluid sample collection, compatible with classic biochemical marker analyses.

Exploring the Fluconazole-Resistance Modifying Activity and Potential Mechanism of Action of Fixed Oil from Caryocar coriaceum Wittm. (Caryocaraceae) against Candida Species.

The fixed oil from the inner mesocarp of Caryocar coriaceum Wittm. is used in the Chapada do Araripe region of Brazil for the treatment of genitourinary candidiasis. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition, antifungal activity, reduction of fungal virulence, and the preliminary toxicity of the fixed oil from the inner mesocarp of C. coriaceum tested against three Candida yeasts. The oil was characterized by gas chromatography (GC-MS and GC-FID). Antifungal activity was assessed using the serial microdilution method. Additionally, the potential of the oil as an enhancer of fluconazole action was tested at sub-inhibitory concentrations (MIC/8). The mechanism of action of C. coriaceum fixed oil was determined by evaluating the inhibition of morphological transition in Candida spp. The chemical composition of the fixed oil of C. coriaceum comprised both unsaturated and saturated fatty acids. Oleic (61 %) and palmitic (33 %) acids were the major constituents. Regarding its anti-Candida activity, the oil inhibited the growth of C. albicans (IC50 : 371 µg/mL) and C. tropicalis (IC50 : 830 µg/mL). Furthermore, the oil reversed the antifungal resistance of C. albicans and C. tropicalis, restoring the susceptibility to fluconazole and reducing their IC50 from 12.33 µg/mL and 362 µg/mL to 0.22 µg/mL and 13.93 µg/mL, respectively. The fixed oil of C. coriaceum completely inhibited the morphological transition of C. albicans and C. tropicalis at a concentration of 512 µg/mL, but exhibited limited low antifungal potential against C. krusei. The observed antifungal activity may be attributed to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Additionally, the oil showed no toxic effect on the Drosophila melanogaster in vivo model. The fixed oil from the inner mesocarp of C. coriaceum emerge as a strong candidate for the development of new pharmaceutical formulations to treat infections caused by Candida spp.

Genotype-by-environment interactions for feed efficiency traits in Nellore cattle based on bi-trait reaction norm models.

BACKGROUND: Selecting animals for feed efficiency directly impacts the profitability of the beef cattle industry, which contributes to minimizing the environmental footprint of beef production. Genetic and environmental factors influence animal feed efficiency, leading to phenotypic variability when exposed to different environmental conditions (i.e., temperature and nutritional level). Thus, our aim was to assess potential genotype-by-environment (G × E) interactions for dry matter intake (DMI) and residual feed intake (RFI) in Nellore cattle (Bos taurus indicus) based on bi-trait reaction norm models (RN) and evaluate the genetic association between RFI and DMI across different environmental gradient (EG) levels. For this, we used phenotypic information on 12,958 animals (young bulls and heifers) for DMI and RFI recorded during 158 feed efficiency trials. RESULTS: The heritability estimates for DMI and RFI across EG ranged from 0.26 to 0.54 and from 0.07 to 0.41, respectively. The average genetic correlations (± standard deviation) across EG for DMI and RFI were 0.83 ± 0.19 and 0.81 ± 0.21, respectively, with the lowest genetic correlation estimates observed between extreme EG levels (low vs. high) i.e. 0.22 for RFI and 0.26 for DMI, indicating the presence of G × E interactions. The genetic correlation between RFI and DMI across EG levels decreased as the EG became more favorable and ranged from 0.79 (lowest EG) to 0.52 (highest EG). Based on the estimated breeding values from extreme EG levels (low vs. high), we observed a moderate Spearman correlation of 0.61 (RFI) and 0.55 (DMI) and a selection coincidence of 53.3% and 40.0% for RFI and DMI, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show evidence of G × E interactions on feed efficiency traits in Nellore cattle, especially in feeding trials with an average daily gain (ADG) that is far from the expected of 1 kg/day, thus increasing reranking of animals.

Tratamento de feridas complexas com prótese de PVC e enxerto parcial de pele autólogo: Protocolo acelerado e de baixo custo de cicatrização por terceira intenção / Treatment of complex wounds with PVC prosthesis and autologous partial skin graft: Accelerated and low-cost third-intention healing protocol

Introdução: Feridas complexas são lesões tegumentares graves, de difícil resolução com curativos convencionais. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever uma técnica de cicatrização de feridas por terceira intenção, reprodutível e de baixo custo, aplicável a feridas complexas, utilizando uma prótese de policloreto de vinila (PVC) colocada temporariamente na área da lesão para promover proteção e estimular sua "granulação", seguida de enxerto autólogo de pele de espessura parcial. Método: De forma consecutiva, foram selecionados 20 pacientes com feridas complexas, decorrentes de causas externas, divididos em 2 grupos: A - pacientes que foram submetidos à técnica de cobertura com prótese de PVC, seguida de enxerto; e B - pacientes submetidos aos cuidados da equipe de curativo, com trocas diárias até granulação da ferida, padrão da nossa instituição. Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto ao tempo de internação; custos; em relação à dor local; à presença de complicações; ao tempo até a alta médica; e à satisfação do paciente. Resultados: O tempo de internamento e seus custos, assim como o tempo até a alta médica, foram menores no grupo A (p<0,05). Todavia, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa em relação à dor local entre as técnicas A e B. Conclusão: A técnica utilizando prótese de PVC e enxerto possui boa eficácia para o tratamento de feridas complexas, sendo reprodutível e de baixo custo.

Introduction: Complex wounds are serious tegumentary injuries that are difficult to resolve with conventional dressings. This study aimed to describe a third-intention wound healing technique, reproducible and low cost, applicable to complex wounds, using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) prosthesis temporarily placed in the injured area to promote the protection and stimulate its "granulation," followed by autologous partial-thickness skin grafting. Method: Consecutively, 20 patients with complex wounds resulting from external causes were selected and divided into 2 groups: A - patients who underwent the coverage technique with PVC prosthesis, followed by grafting, and B - patients submitted to the care of the dressing team, with daily changes until wound granulation, standard in our institution. Patients were evaluated regarding length of stay; costs; local pain; complications; the time until medical discharge; and patient satisfaction. Results: The length of hospital stay, its costs, and the time until medical discharge were shorter in group A (p<0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference in local pain between techniques A and B. Conclusion: The technique using PVC prosthesis and graft has good efficacy for treating complex wounds, being reproducible and inexpensive.

Caryocar coriaceum fruits as a potential alternative to combat fungal and bacterial infections: In vitro evaluation of methanolic extracts.

Caryocar coriaceum, commonly known as 'pequi', is a medicinal species used traditionally for the herbal treatment of infectious and parasitic diseases in the Brazilian Northeast region. In this study, we investigated whether the fruits of C. coriaceum have bioactive chemical constituents against etiological agents of infectious diseases. The methanolic extract of the internal mesocarp of the fruits of C. coriaceum (MECC) was chemically analyzed and evaluated for its antimicrobial and drug-enhancing activity against multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus), and Candida spp. strains. The extract had flavones, flavonols, xanthones, catechins, and flavanones as major classes. A total of 11.26 mg GAE/g of phenolics, and 5.98 mg QE/g of flavonoids were found. No intrinsic antibacterial activity was observed; however, the extract was able to intensify the action of gentamicin and erythromycin against multi-resistant strains. The anti-Candida effect observed in this study was mainly due to the formation of reactive oxygen species. The extract was capable of causing damage to the plasmatic membrane of Candida tropicalis through pores formation. Our findings partially support the ethnopharmacological uses of the fruit pulp of C. coriaceum against infectious and parasitic diseases.

Influence of carbonated acid beverage on fracture resistance and marginal gap formation in different restorative approaches to non-carious cervical lesions.

OBJECTIVE: This study is to evaluate fracture resistance, failure mode, and gap formation at the restorative interface of unrestored or restored non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) submitted to a short-term erosive environment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Artificial NCCLs were produced in vitro in bovine incisors, and were randomly divided into four restorative resins groups (n = 22): nanohybrid-NR; bulk-fill-BR; flow with a nanohybrid layer-FNR; bulk-fill with a nanohybrid layer-BNR; and a group unrestored-UR (n = 16). Half of the specimens were submitted to an erosive challenge (per 5 min, 3 × a day for 7 days, before and after restoration), and the other half, was immersed in artificial saliva. After, all teeth undergone thermal (5 ºC, 37 ºC, and 55 ºC, 3600 cycles) and mechanical (50 N, 2 Hz, 300,000 cycles) aging. Eighty teeth were subjected to compressive loading, and resistance and failures were analyzed, while 24 teeth were evaluated for gaps by microcomputed tomography. Statistical tests were performed (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The restorative approaches affected fracture resistance (η2p = 0.14, p = 0.023), and gap formation (η2 = 0.18, p = 0.012) and so did the immersion medium (fracture η2p = 0.09, p = 0.008; gap η2 = 0.09, p = 0.017). BNR showed the highest resistance, while UR the lowest. FNR showed the highest gaps in both immersion media. Neither the resin groups nor the immersion media were associated with failure mode. CONCLUSIONS: The erosive immersion medium based in acid beverages has been shown to affect NCCLs with or without restoration, but when Bulk-Fill resin is covered by nanohybrid resin, the performance is good. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Erosion negatively affects restorations, but unrestored NCCL shows worse biomechanical performance in stress-bearing situations.

Weighted genomic prediction for growth and carcass-related traits in Nelore cattle.

This study aimed to assess the impact of differential weighting in genomic regions harboring candidate causal loci on the genomic prediction accuracy and dispersion for growth and carcass-related traits in Nelore cattle. The dataset contained 168 793 phenotypic records for adjusted weight at 450 days of age (W450), 83 624 for rib eye area (REA), 24 480 for marbling (MAR) and 82 981 for subcutaneous backfat thickness (BFT) and rump fat thickness (RFT). The pedigree harbored information from 244 254 animals born between 1977 and 2016, including 6283 sires and 50 742 dams. Animals (n = 7769) were genotyped with the low-density panel (Clarifide® Nelore 3.0), and the genotypes were imputed to a panel containing 735 044 markers. A linear animal model was applied to estimate the genetic parameters and to perform the weighted single-step genome-wide association study (WssGWAS). A total of seven models for genomic prediction were evaluated combining the SNP weights obtained in the iterations of the WssGWAS and the candidate QTL. The heritability estimated for W450 (0.35) was moderate, and for carcass-related traits, the estimates were moderate for REA (0.27), MAR (0.28) and RFT (0.28), and low for BFT (0.18). The prediction accuracy for W450 incorporating reported QTL previously described in the literature along with different SNPs weights was like those described for the default ssGBLUP model. The use of the ssGWAS to weight the SNP effects displayed limited advantages for the REA prediction accuracy. Comparing the ssGBLUP with the BLUP model, a meaningful improvement in the prediction accuracy from 0.09 to 0.63 (700%) was observed for MAR. The highest prediction accuracy was obtained for BFT and RFT in all evaluated models. The application of information obtained from the WssGWAS is an alternative to reduce the genomic prediction dispersion for growth and carcass-related traits, except for MAR. Furthermore, the results obtained herein pointed out that is possible to improve the prediction accuracy and reduce the genomic prediction dispersion for growth and carcass-related traits in young animals.

Estimates of genetic and phenotypic parameters for feeding behaviour and feed efficiency-related traits in Nelore cattle.

The objective of this study was to obtain (co)variance components, heritability, and genetic and phenotypic correlation estimates for feed efficiency and feed behaviour-related indicator traits. Further, it aimed to predict the direct and correlated responses for feed efficiency traits when selection was applied for feeding behaviour-related traits in Nelore cattle. Phenotypic records (n = 4840) from 125 feed efficiency tests (RFI: Residual feed intake and DMI: Dry matter intake) carried out between 2011 and 2018 were considered in this study. Animals belonged to five farms located in two Brazilian geographical regions (Midwest and Southeast). Animals under similar management and environmental conditions in the feedlot were evaluated when they attained an average of 13.5 ± 4.15 months of age. Feed behaviour-related traits were also obtained, including meal criteria (MC), meal frequency (MF), average meal duration (AMD), meal duration (MD), average consumption per meal (ACM), and consumption rate (CR) through the GrowSafe System® electronic bunk system. The contemporary groups for all traits were composed of farm, management group, feed efficiency test, sex, and birth year. The (co)variance components were estimated using the restricted maximum likelihood method considering a multi-trait (n = 8) animal model. The heritability estimates for RFI (0.23 ± 0.02), DMI (0.31 ± 0.02), MF (0.65 ± 0.02), AMD (0.29 ± 0.02), ACM (0.24 ± 0.02), MD (0.41 ± 0.02), MC (0.48 ± 0.02), and CR (0.42 ± 0.02) were moderate to high. The highest genetic correlation was obtained between CR and MD (-0.91 ± 0.04), MD and AMD (0.73 ± 0.03), CR and AMD (-0.68 ± 0.04), and RFI and DMI (0.81 ± 0.02). The highest phenotypic correlation was between ACM and AMD (0.76 ± 0.02), DMI and MD (0.77 ± 0.02), and DMI and RFI (0.77 ± 0.02). Genetic improvement for feed efficiency and feeding behaviour-related traits is feasible and the results obtained herein provided valuable information regarding the genetic background of Nelore feeding behaviour-related traits. The genetic association between feeding behaviour and feed efficiency-related traits suggested that animals spending less time feeding at a low feeding rate also had lower DMI and higher feed efficiency (RFI), and likely had lower energy maintenance requirements. The relative efficiency of selection showed that feeding behaviour-related traits were not adequate indicator traits to improve RFI and DMI. The DMI might be an effective selection criterion to improve RFI and reduce the herd's maintenance requirements.

Sudden death in high performance athlete with bradycardia and SCN5A gene mutation

INTRODUCTION: Sinus bradycardia (SB) at rest is considered normal in athletes and is determined by intrinsic heart rate (HR) reduction and modulations of the autonomic system. However, the possibility of progressive degeneration in association with genetic mutations that determine rhythm alterations should make the marked and persistent BS to be better investigated. CASE REPORT: Marathon runner, 28 years, SB with HR < 30 bpm associated with first degree atrioventricular block (AVB) and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Diagnosed with atrial flutter (AF) during a period of high-intensity training, which was treated with ablation. After 16 years of follow-up, he had an ischemic stroke (IS), treated with trombolisys, without neurologic sequelae. After developed episodes of sudden loss of consciousness, which was attributed to seizures resulting from the IS. However, the SB with pauses persisted, despite the improvement in the (LVH) pattern. HOLTER showed HR 36-48-80 bpm, BS rhythm, alternating with atrial ectopic rhythm, episodes of type I 2nd degree AVB and pauses of up to 2.7s. TILT-TEST with marked SB, 1st degree AVB and junctional escape, with accentuation of bradycardia and prolonged pauses to orthostasis, without HR response to sensitization with vasodilator, as well as with atropine. Suspecting genetic mutations that cause hereditary primary electrical diseases, a genetic test was collected. However, the patient had sudden death during sleep, before the result, which revealed a mutation of the SCN5A gene. DISCUSSION: SB, prevalent in athletes, may be accompanied by AVB of varying degrees. In this case, in addition to marked bradycardia, the patient had AF. Despite the causal relationship between mutations in the SCN5A gene and the Brugada Syndrome phenotype, there are atypical clinical manifestations that include, in addition to the set of signs and symptoms of Brugada syndrome, AF, sinus node dysfunction, long QT syndrome, dilated cardiomyopathy , and others. Carriers of SCN5A mutations linked to Brugada syndrome or progressive cardiac conduction system degeneration are at increased risk of sudden death. CONCLUSION: Marked bradycardia in athletes should be investigated and the association with channelopathies leads to phenotypes with aberrant rhythms and progressive degeneration of the cardiac conduction system, which can determine fatal arrhythmias.

Hemophagocytic Syndrome in a Patient with HIV and Histoplasmosis: A not so Rare Correlation.

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a disorder that occurs due to unsuitable monocyte activation in a variety of infections. In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, patients with advanced immunossupression associated with opportunistic infections are at increased risk of developing HLH. We describe a clinical case of a 33-year-old male student diagnosed with HIV who was hospitalized for investigation of asthenia and dyspnea, accompanied by adynamia, decreased motor force in the left leg, dysphagia, and dysfluency. His general condition was regular, he was pale, feverish, and had normal cardiac and pulmonary auscultation. Physical examination revealed ulcerated lesions in the perianal region and hepatosplenomegaly without palpable lymph node enlargement. Laboratory parameters showed pancytopenia, a slight increase in liver function accompanied by high lactate dehydrogenase, and hiperferritinemia. The initial diagnosis was disseminated histoplasmosis, thus amphotericin B deoxycholate was empirically prescribed while waiting on myeloculture and blood cultures for fungi and mycobacteria. Other clinical procedures were blood transfusion, resumption of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and secondary prophylaxis. Myeloculture blood cultures of fungi and mycobacteria were negative. Patient evolved well in relation to the initial complaints and showed partial clinical and laboratory improvement. However, 23 days after hospitalization, he developed a febrile episode accompanied by chills and a convulsive crisis. The patient was transferred to the intensive unit care and developed septic shock and respiratory failure. He died 25 days after the onset of the condition. After the postmortem examination, histopathology revealed countless rounded fungal structures compatible with Histoplasma sp., which were observed in the peripancreatic lymph node, liver, and spleen, in addition to hemophagocytosis in the splenic parenchyma. We thus conclude that when the patient met criteria for HLH, such as fever, hepatosplenomegaly, hiperferritinemia, and pancytopenia, the evolution was fast due to the aggressive and rapidly fatal nature of HLH, despite anti-fungal and corticoid treatment. Therefore, this case report reinforces the need to consider hemophagocytic syndrome in patients with HIV and disseminated histoplasmosis, especially where histoplasmosis is highly endemic, in order for the treatment be started early when there is high clinical suspicion.

Transcriptomic profile of longissimus thoracis associated with fatty acid content in Nellore beef cattle.

The beef fatty acid (FA) profile has the potential to impact human health, and displays polygenic and complex features. This study aimed to identify the transcriptomic FA profile in the longissimus thoracis muscle in Nellore beef cattle finished in feedlot. Forty-four young bulls were sampled to assess the beef FA profile by considering 14 phenotypes and including differentially expressed genes (DEG), co-expressed (COE), and differentially co-expressed genes (DCO) analyses. All samples (n = 44) were used for COE analysis, whereas 30 samples with extreme phenotypes for the beef FA profile were used for DEG and DCO. A total of 912 DEG were identified, and the polyunsaturated (n = 563) and unsaturated ω-3 (n = 346) FA sums groups were the most frequently observed. The COE analyses identified three modules, of which the blue module (n = 1776) was correlated with eight of 14 FA phenotypes. Also, 759 DCO genes were listed, and the oleic acid (n = 358) and monounsaturated fatty acids sum (n = 120) were the most frequent. Furthermore, 243 and 13, 319 and seven, and 173 and 12 gene ontology terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways were enriched respectively for the DEG, COE, and DCO analyses. Combining the results, we highlight the unexplored GIPC2, ASB5, and PPP5C genes in cattle. Besides LIPE and INSIG2 genes in COE modules, the ACSL3, ECI1, DECR2, FITM1, and SDHB genes were signaled in at least two analyses. These findings contribute to understand the genetic mechanisms underlying the beef FA profile in Nellore beef cattle finished in feedlot.

COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis in a Series of Complete Autopsies from the Brazilian Amazon.

Between April and July 2020, and, therefore, prior to the broad recommendation of corticosteroids for severe COVID-19, a total of 50 full autopsies were performed in Manaus. We confirmed two invasive cases of aspergillosis through histopathology and gene sequencing (4%) in our autopsy series. The confirmed invasive aspergillosis incidence seems much lower than expected based on the "probable and possible" definitions, and an individualized approach should be considered for each country scenario. Interestingly, a prolonged length of stay in the intensive care unit was not observed in any of the cases. Timely diagnosis and treatment of fungal infection can reduce mortality rates.

Chitosan-Based Biomaterial, Calcium Hydroxide and Chlorhexidine for Potential Use as Intracanal Medication.

The objective of this study was to develop a chitosan-based biomaterial with calcium hydroxide and 2% chlorhexidine for intracanal treatment application and, consequently, to diminish the number of microorganisms in the root canal system. The chitosan solution was prepared by dissolving it in 2% and 4% acetic acid (v/v) for 1 h at room temperature (25 °C) with magnetic agitation (430 rpm). Calcium hydroxide was obtained in two stages: the first was the synthesis of the calcium oxide-CaO, and the second was that of the calcium hydroxide-Ca(OH)2. The samples were developed using different concentrations of chitosan, calcium hydroxide, and chlorhexidine 2%. They were codified as Ca(OH)2 + Q2% (M1), Ca(OH)2 + Q4% (M2), Ca(OH)2 + Q2% + CLX (M3), Ca(OH)2 + Q4% + CLX (M4), Ca(OH)2 + Q2% + PEG (M5), and Ca(OH)2 + Q4% + PEG (M6). They were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and rheological measurement, and the antimicrobial activity was evaluated in vitro. Characteristic absorption bands of the source materials used in this research were observed in the FTIR spectra. The X-ray diffraction technique indicated that the material has a semi-crystalline structure and that the presence of calcium hydroxide made the biomaterial more crystalline. The viscosity measurement showed a pseudoplastic behavior of the studied samples. The microbiologic analysis was positive for all samples tested, with bigger inhibition zones for the samples M3 and M4. As a result, we conclude that the formulation developed based on chitosan is promising and has potential to be an intracanal medication.

Identification of Pneumocystis jirovecii with Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) in Patient Samples-A Proof-of-Principle.

In resource-limited settings, where pneumocystosis in immunocompromised patients is infrequently observed, cost-efficient, reliable, and sensitive approaches for the diagnostic identification of Pneumocystis jirovecii in human tissue samples are desirable. Here, an in-house fluorescence in situ hybridization assay was comparatively evaluated against Grocott's staining as a reference standard with 30 paraffin-embedded tissue samples as well as against in-house real-time PCR with 30 respiratory secretions from immunocompromised patients with clinical suspicion of pneumocystosis. All pneumocystosis patients included in the study suffered from HIV/AIDS. Compared with Grocott's staining as the reference standard, sensitivity of the FISH assay was 100% (13/13), specificity was 41% (7/17), and the overall concordance was 66.7% with tissue samples. With respiratory specimens, sensitivity was 83.3% (10/12), specificity was 100% (18/18), and the overall concordance was 93.3% as compared with real-time PCR. It remained unresolved to which proportions sensitivity limitations of Grocott's staining or autofluorescence phenomena affecting the FISH assay accounted for the recorded reduced specificity with the tissue samples. The assessment confirmed Pneumocystis FISH in lung tissue as a highly sensitive screening approach; however, dissatisfying specificity in paraffin-embedded biopsies calls for confirmatory testing with other techniques in case of positive FISH screening results. In respiratory secretions, acceptable sensitivity and excellent specificity were demonstrated for the diagnostic application of the P. jirovecii-specific FISH assay.

Confirmed Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis and COVID-19: the value of postmortem findings to support antemortem management.

We present postmortem evidence of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in a patient with severe COVID-19. Autopsies of COVID-19 confirmed cases were performed. The patient died despite antimicrobials, mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor support. Histopathology and peripheral blood galactomannan antigen testing confirmed IPA. Aspergillus penicillioides infection was confirmed by nucleotide sequencing and BLAST analysis. Further reports are needed to assess the occurrence and frequency of IPA in SARS-CoV-2 infections, and how they interact clinically.

Biologia alimentar de Aequidens tetramerus em macrófitas aquáticas de lagos de várzea da reserva de desenvolvimento sustentável Mamirauá, Região do Médio Solimões, Estado do Amazonas, Brasil / Food biology of Aequidens tetramerus in floodplain lake macrophytes in the Mamirauá sustainable development reserve, Mid-Solimões Region, State of Amazonas, Brazil / Biología alimentaria del Aequidens tetramerus en macrófitas acuáticas de lagos de várzea de la reserva de desarrollo sostenible Mamirauá, Región del Medio Solimões, Estado de Amazonas, Brasil

Estudos sobre a alimentação de peixes são fundamentais para compreender as relações tróficas e estrutura de comunidades ícticas. A espécie em estudo Aequidens tetramerus pertence à família Cichlidae que detém mais de 450 espécies para os neotrópicos, sendo que destes, 287 habitam a América do Sul. Objetivou-se com este estudo compreender a dieta e padrão alimentar de A. tetramerus em lagos de várzea nos ambientes de macrófitas aquáticas da Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Mamirauá (RDSM), Estado do Amazonas. A análise da dieta foi feita a partir da averiguação do conteúdo estomacal de 59 indivíduos. Determinou-se o Grau de Repleção Estomacal (GRE), Frequência de Ocorrência (FO%), Frequência de Biomassa (FB%) e o Índice de Importância Alimentar (IAi %). Segundo o (GRE), 28 espécimes (39,4%) apresentaram estômagos vazios. A dieta de A. tetramerus foi composta por 12 itens alimentares diferentes. Entretanto, poucos foram predominantes com destaque para insetos (12,6% e 42,7%), em FO% e FB%, respectivamente. Pode-se inferir que A. tetramerus possui hábito carnívoro com tendência a insetivoria, pois quando realizado a combinação dos métodos, por meio da determinação do (IAi %) para verificar a importância das 12 categorias que compuseram a dieta, o item inseto também obteve o maior valor (IAi = 0,71%). Este fato pode estar relacionado ao próprio ambiente de macrófitas aquáticas, pois este é um habitat ideal para a reprodução e desenvolvimento de insetos.(AU)

Studies on the feeding habits of fish are key to understanding the trophic relationships and the structure of ictic communities. The species under study, Aequidens tetramerus, belongs to the Cichlidae family which has over 450 species for the neotropics, of which 287 inhabit South America. The aim of this study was to understand the diet and dietary patterns of A. tetramerus in floodplain lakes in the aquatic macrophyte environments of the Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserve (RDSM) in the state of Amazonas. The diet was analyzed by investigating the stomach contents of 59 individuals. The degree of stomach repletion (DRS), frequency of occurrence (FO%), frequency of biomass (FB%), and dietary importance index (IAi%) were determined. According to DSR, 28 specimens (39.4%) had empty stomachs. The diet of A. tetramerus was composed of 12 different food items. However, only a few were predominant, with emphasis to insects (12.6% and 42.7% in FO% and FB%, respectively). It can be inferred that A. tetramerus has carnivorous habits with a tendency to be an insectivore, since when the combination of methods was performed, by determining the IAi% to verify the importance of the 12 categories that composed the diet, the insect category also presented the highest value (IAi = 0.71%). This fact may be related to the aquatic macrophyte environment itself, as this is an ideal habitat for the reproduction and development of insects.(AU)

Estudios sobre la alimentación de peces son fundamentales para comprender las relaciones tróficas y estructura de comunidades ícticas. La especie en estudio, Aequidens tetramerus, pertenece a la familia Cichlidae que posee más de 450 especies en neo trópicos, 287 de los cuales habitan en América del Sur. El objetivo de este estudio yace en la compresión de la dieta y el patrón alimentar del A. tetramerus en lagos de vega en los ambientes de macrófitas acuáticas de la Reserva de Desarrollo Sostenible de Mamirauá (RDSM), en el Estado de Amazonas. El análisis de la dieta se realizó investigando el contenido estomacal de 59 individuos. Se determinaron el Grado de Repleción Estomacal (GRE), Frecuencia de Ocurrencia (FO%), Frecuencia de Biomasa (FB%) y el Índice de Importancia Alimentar (IAi%). Según GRE, 28 muestras (39,4%) tenían estómagos vacíos. La dieta de A. tetramerus consistió en 12 alimentos diferentes. Sin embargo, pocos fueron predominantes, con énfasis en insectos (12.6% y 42.7%), en FO% y FB%, respectivamente. Se puede inferir que el A. tetramerus tiene un hábito carnívoro con tendencia insectívora, porque cuando se realiza la combinación de los métodos, determinando el (IAi%) para verificar la importancia de las 12 categorías que componían la dieta, el ítem insecto también obtuvo el valor más alto (IAi = 0.71%). Este hecho puede estar relacionado con el propio ambiente de macrófitas acuáticas, ya que este es un hábitat ideal para la reproducción y el desarrollo de insectos.(AU)

Orally hypoglycemic activity of an insulin mimetic glycoprotein isolated from Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl. (Euphorbiaceae) seeds, Cq-IMP.

The genus Cnidoscolus (Euphorbiaceae) is widely distributed in tropical areas. In the Northeast of Brazil, the species C. quercifolius is endemic and has been used in traditional medicine. In this study, a novel protein was isolated from C. quercifolius seeds and characterized by its molecular weight, primary structure, isoelectric point (pI), and carbohydrate content. The hypoglycemic activity of this protein was investigated by in vitro assay with the RIN-5F glucose-responsive cell line and in vivo test using alloxan-induced diabetic mice models. In addition, safe use of the protein was also investigated by cytotoxicity, hemagglutinating, and immunogenicity assays. The protein which was named Cq-IMP (Cnidoscolus quercifolius - Insulin Mimetic Protein) showed a single 11.18 KDa glycopolypeptide chain (16.4% of carbohydrates, m/m), pI of 8.0 and N-terminal sequence (TKDPELKQcKKQQKKqQQYDDDDKK) with similarity around 46-62% to sucrose binding protein-like and vicilin-like protein that was confirmed by mass spectrometry tryptic peptides analysis. Besides that, Cq-IMP presented anti-insulin antibody cross-reactivity as hypoglycemic activity in both in vitro and in vivo models. Additionally, it did not present any toxicity by methods tested. In conclusion, Cq-IMP is an insulin-mimetic protein, with a potent hypoglycemic activity and no toxicity showing great potential for therapeutic applications and drug development.

Mo-CBP4, a purified chitin-binding protein from Moringa oleifera seeds, is a potent antidermatophytic protein: In vitro mechanisms of action, in vivo effect against infection, and clinical application as a hydrogel for skin infection.

Dermatophytes belonging to Trichophyton ssp. are important anthropophilic and zoophilic pathogens, which developed resistance to griseofulvin, the common antifungal drug used to treat dermatophytosis. In this context, Moringa oleifera seed proteins have been described as antifungal agents with potential applications. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the antidermatophytic in vitro, focusing on mechanisms, and in vivo potential of Mo-CBP4, purified from M. oleifera seeds. Mo-CBP4was purified after protein extraction with 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 8.0, and chromatography on chitin and CM Sepharose™ columns and antidermatophytic potential of Mo-CBP4 evaluated in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, Mo-CBP4 reduced in 50% the germination of microconidia of Trichophyton mentagrophytes at 45 µM; but did not show inhibition of mycelial growth. Mo-CBP4 (45 µM) presents the inhibitory activity even when incubated with N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (NAG). Analysis of the mechanisms of Mo-CBP4 revealed an increase in membrane permeability, ROS overproduction and damage to cell wall leading to microconidia death. Furthermore, using in vivo models, Mo-CBP4 (5, 10 and 20 mg g-1) reduced the severity and time of dermatophytosis. Altogether, these findings indicate that Mo-CBP4 has great potential for the development of novel antifungal drugs for the clinical treatment of dermatophytosis.