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Based in a case study, we seek to understand to what extent a teacher's participation in lesson studies influences her teaching practice. Data collection included participant observation (doing a research journal and audio/video recording), document collection (tasks and lesson plans) and interview. The results suggest that participating in several lesson studies, planning whole-class discussions from the students' answers, influenced the teachers' practice. She proposed a task that allowed students to make connections between representations, as in the lesson studies, and, in the whole-class discussion, she encouraged several students to participate and challenged them to go beyond the task, which she did not do in the lesson studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigated the effect of different extracting agents on the extraction of phenolic compounds from agro-industrial residues of seriguela. Additionally, the phenolic compounds partitioning was studied using aqueous two-phase systems based on the extracting agents. The effect of the type of extracting agent such as water, organic solvent (1,3-dioxolane, acetone, 1,4-dioxane, and acetonitrile), and different ionic liquids (ILs) was evaluated. Afterward, solvent concentration, solid-liquid ratio, and time were analyzed in the extraction process. The solvent polarity played an important role in the extraction; thus 1,3-dioxolane (20 wt%), solid-liquid ratio 1:10 for 45 min was the best condition presented for organic solvents (1437.00 ± 0.01 mg L-1). On the other hand, [C2mim][CH3SO3] (20%), liquid-solid ratio 1:10 for 10 min was the best condition using IL (1842.56 ± 42.43 mg L-1). The mixture of water (60 wt%) + 1.3 dioxolane (20 wt%) + [C2mim][CH3SO3] (20 wt%) increased the concentration of phenolic compounds to 1894.22 ± 90.51 mg L-1. The phase separation was performed with the addition of organic solvent, reaching the mixture composition of 1,3-dioxolane (40 wt%) + [C2mim] [CH3SO3] (10 wt%) + water (50 wt%) at 25 °C, allowing the recovery of the phenolic compounds (98.63 ± 0.15%) to the bottom phase (IL-rich phase) and a partition coefficient of 0.0092 ± 0.0002. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Findings: What is the central question of this study?Is the cardiovascular phenotype of high blood pressure observed in rats salt loaded with 2% NaCl in drinking solution a blood volume‐dependent hypertension?What is the main finding and its importance?Animals exposed to 2% NaCl drinking solution develop hypertension, with dominance of sympathetic outflow and high [Na+] in the cerebrospinal fluid, but without changes in the blood volume. The phenotype of salt‐dependent hypertension might be related to accumulation of [Na+] in the cerebrospinal fluid, which makes it an interesting animal model in which to study the neuronal pathways involved in control of the circulation in osmotic challenge conditions. Evidence suggests that hypertension induced by high salt intake is correlated with an autonomic imbalance that favours sympathetic hyperactivity and an increase in vascular resistance, indicating a neurogenic component to this pathology. Although there are several animal models in which to study salt‐induced hypertension with prolonged exposure to a high‐sodium diet, here we sought to investigate whether the increase in arterial blood pressure of rats subjected to a short exposure to high salt, with 2% NaCl drinking solution instead of water, relies on changes in the circulating blood volume. Male Wistar rats were divided randomly into three groups: euhydrated (EU, n = 10), salt loaded (SL, n = 13) and water deprived (WD, n = 6). The SL rats exhibited a significant increase in mean arterial blood pressure, with a large low‐frequency component of systolic arterial blood pressure variability, when compared with the EU group. Circulating blood volume did not differ between SL and EU rats, but it was lower in WD rats. Compared with EU rats, the [Na+] in cerebrospinal fluid was higher in SL rats and similar in magnitude to the WD rats. Plasma [Na+] did not differ between SL and EU rats, but it was higher in WD rats. Collectively, our data suggest that the hypertension induced by a short exposure to high salt intake closely resembles a neurogenic mechanism, but not a blood volume‐dependent mechanism, with cumulative [Na+] in the cerebrospinal fluid that could be associated with changes in the neurochemistry of autonomic nuclei, which are highly susceptible to osmotic stress related to high salt consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stability of the shoulder joint is granted by ligaments, joint capsule, tendons and muscles. However, traumatic injuries can cause failure of the stabilization mechanisms, which leads to articular luxation or instability. The aim of the paper is to report a case of medial and lateral right shoulder joint instability in a mixed-breed cat, presenting acute forelimb lameness after a fight trauma with another cat. Initially, it was recommended a conservative treatment through articular immobilization. However, the technique was unsuccessful, and the surgery treatment was performed, to stabilize the joint with synthetic ligament prosthetic. In the postoperative period, no crepitation or instability were identified. After eight days of surgery, the patient returned totally to the normal function of the forelimb, without movement restriction or pain. It was concluded that, although rare, the traumatic shoulder joint instability is a differential diagnosis for acute forelimb lameness and the surgical treatment can be necessary, showing a good result in the resolution of these injuries with the surgical approach and stabilization method proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma is frequently reported in the small animal clinics, and can lead to fractures of cranial bone components and injuries to the adjacent soft tissues. In the present study, the objective was to report the case of a seven-month-old male mongrel dog, that had a craniomaxillofacial trauma resulting from a bite, characterized by zygomatic bone fracture and displacement, in addition to a major skin laceration. The stablished treatment was based on wound debridement, surgical stabilization of the zygomatic arch with nylon threads and in the suturing of skin wounds. In a second surgical procedure, enucleation was performed and a surgical polypropylene mesh was applied to cover the orbital defect, exuberant tissue was removed and a subdermal advancement flap was used to cover the skin defect. The complication observed in the first surgical intervention was dehiscence of the skin sutures, while in the second surgical procedure, there were no signs of complications. Postoperatively, the patient had a satisfactory clinical recovery, being discharged 21 days after the second surgical procedure. Considering the adequate clinical evolution and the reduced complications, it is suggested that the clinical conduct and surgical techniques adopted for the treatment of the patient in question were effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As requested, the highlights containing the main conclusions of the study are listed below (85 characters). • The deterministic metrics indicated that the MGB-IPH can well represent the hydrological regime in the study areas, although there was a tendency to overestimate flows. • Results show that the MGB-IPH can satisfactorily produce flows in paired watersheds with similar environmental conditions and different land use and cover. • The study provides results that can be applied to hydrological modeling in the region, helping to manage water resources in the Doce River watershed. Simulating hydrological behavior makes it possible to analyze and predict water availability in river basins, anticipate potential events and carry out quantitative water balances using various scenarios. These scenarios arise from changes in land use and landscape over the years, the occurrence of extreme events and the effects of climate change. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Large Basin Hydrological Model (MGB-IPH) for representing rainfall-runoff in the paired watershed of the Piracicaba River and Piranga River in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, using the usual calibration and validation procedures. The results of the average statistical performance indices NASH, NASH-Log, BIAS, R², D and Dr showed that the model was able to simulate the seasonality of the watersheds and presented good adjustments, with a tendency to overerestimate the flow, but within acceptable limits. It is concluded that the model performed satisfactorily in its ability to simulate the hydrological behaviour of the Piracicaba River and Piranga River watersheds, despite its limitations and the lack of input data, making it an applicable tool in local contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diversity and natural history of Cassidinae s. str (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), popularly known as tortoise beetles, were recorded in a 335 ha remnant area of Atlantic Forest in Passa Quatro, south of Minas Gerais, Brazil. This is the first inventory with beetles conducted within this conservation unit. Tortoise beetles and their host plants were collected manually at weekly visits conducted between November 2015 and December 2017. Biological and behavioural characteristics of these organisms were obtained. Forty-six species of tortoise beetles were identified, belonging to 23 genera and five tribes. New records include 13 species of cassidines for the state of Minas Gerais, the first host plant 22 record for nine species of beetles, and 15 new host plants for ten species of cassidines. The most common tribes were Cassidini (n = 22) and Mesomphaliini (n = 20). Identification of host plants was possible, at least at the family level, for 40 of the 46 cassidine species collected. The dominant host plant families were Convolvulaceae (43%) and Asteraceae (19%). The biological and behavioural findings are discussed by relating them to the defensive mechanisms that have been described or hypothesised previously in the literature. The present paper is a novel contribution to the tortoise beetle diversity studies in Brazil, as well as their natural history and life cycle within the Atlantic Forest, a diverse and endangered Neotropical biome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbivorous insects have their density limited by biotic and abiotic factors, which influence their survival. For subsocial tortoise beetles (Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae) little is known about natural history and what factors affect their densities, although they are promising models for ecological and evolutionary studies. We described (1) the biology, behaviour and natural enemies of Omaspides (P.) brunneosignata Boheman 1854 (Cassidinae: Mesomphaliini); (2) its population density, and (3) the possible correlation between its density and climatic factors (temperature and precipitation) and host plant, Ipomoea syringifolia Meisn. 1869 (Convolvulaceae). The study was conducted in the Floresta Nacional de Passa Quatro, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from: October/2010 to May/2011, to investigate the species life cycle and the population dynamics, correlating the density to the climatic variables and from October/2016 to January/2018, when population dynamics was monitored again, and the density was correlated to the climatic variables and phenology of the host plant. Parental care was observed only by the female of O. (P.) brunneosignata, which cares for the offspring for approximately 48 days, the total duration of immature development. Maternal care was fundamental in the egg stage, because in the absence of the female, all the egg masses were predated, mainly by ants. Immatures were predated and/or parasitised by Hymenoptera (ants, wasps) and Coccinellidae beetles. Omaspides (P.) brunneosignata is a bivoltine species, being abundant during the hot and rainy months and not being observed in the dry and cold season, a similar pattern to that of other cassidines of mountainous tropical areas in Brazil. The density did not correlate with the climatic variables or with the leaf density of the host plant. Other factors are discussed as possible causes for the population fluctuation of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate and environmental conditions are determinant for coral distribution and their very existence. When changes in such conditions occur, their effects on distribution can be predicted through species distribution models, anticipating suitable habitats for the subsistence of species. Mussismilia harttii is one of the most endangered Brazilian endemic reef-building corals, and in increasing risk of extinction. Herein, species distribution models were used to determine the present and future potential habitats for M. harttii. Estimations were made through the maximum entropy approach, predicting suitable habitat losses and gains by the end of the 21st century. For this purpose, species records published in the last 20 years and current and future environmental variables were correlated. The best models were chosen according to the Akaike information criterion (AIC) and evaluated through the partial ROC (AUCratio), a new approach which uses independent occurrence data. Both approaches showed that the models performed satisfactorily in predicting potential habitat areas for the species. Future projections were made using the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scenarios for 2100, with different levels of greenhouse gas emission. Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) were used to model the Future Potential Habitat (FPH) of M. harttii in two different scenarios: stabilization of emissions (RCP 4.5) and increase of emissions (RCP 8.5). According to the results, shallow waters to the south of the study area concentrate most of the current potential habitats for the species. However, in future scenarios, there was a loss of suitable areas in relation to the Current Potential Habitat (RCP 4.5 46% and RCP 8.5 59%), whereas there is a southward shift of the suitable areas. In all scenarios of FPH, the temperature was the variable with the greatest contribution to the models (> 35%), followed by the current velocity (> 33%) and bathymetry (>29%). In contrast, there is an increase of deep (50–75 m) suitable areas FPH scenarios, mainly in the southern portion of its distribution, at Abrolhos Bank (off Espirito Santo State). These deeper sites might serve as refugia for the species in global warming scenarios. Coral communities at such depths would be less susceptible to impacts of climate change on temperature and salinity. However, the deep sea is not free from human impacts and measures to protect deeper ecosystems should be prioritized in environmental policies for Brazilian marine conservation, especially the Abrolhos Bank, due to its importance for M. harttii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses the contents within the issue including articles on topics such as the immunomodulatory activity of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), potential use of AMPs with antibiotics for treating Helicobacter pylori, and wound healing.

This article describes a study conducted at a reference center in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, on the clinical and functional profile of patients with Motor Neuron Disease (MND). 125 individuals between the ages of 33 and 85 were evaluated, the majority diagnosed with sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The results showed that many patients had impairments and did not receive adequate multiprofessional follow-up. Therefore, it is essential to provide specialized assistance to this population. [Extracted from the article]

This article presents a longitudinal study on the functional decline of individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a complex and disabling disease with an unpredictable course. The objective of the study was to evaluate the progression of ALS over a period of 24 months. 52 individuals with an average age of 57.2 years participated in the study. A progressive decline in the participants' functionality was observed, although some experienced periods of improvement and stability. Further studies are needed to investigate the factors associated with stability and improvement in functionality in ALS. [Extracted from the article]

Antimicrobial peptides (AMP) are promising alternatives to classical antibiotics, due to their high specificity and potency at low concentrations, and low propensity to elicit pathogen resistance. Immobilization of AMP onto biomaterials is an emergent field of research, towards creation of novel antimicrobial materials able to avoid formation of biofilms on the surfaces of medical devices. Herein, we report the chemical route towards one such material, where chitosan was used as biocompatible carrier for the covalent grafting of Dhvar-5, a well-known potent AMP, via the chemoselective (“click”) Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). The material’s structure, as well as peptide loading, were confirmed by Fourier-transformed infra-red (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies, and by Amino Acid Analysis (AAA), respectively. Results herein reported demonstrate that, with proper optimization, the “click” CuAAC is an attractive approach for the tethering of AMP onto chitosan, in order to create novel antimicrobial materials potentially valuable for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Redox imbalance in regions of the CNS controlling blood pressure is increasingly recognized as a leading factor for hypertension. Nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) of the dorsomedial medulla is the main region receiving excitatory visceral sensory inputs that modulate autonomic efferent drive to the cardiovascular system. This study sought to determine the capacity of reduced glutathione, a major bioactive antioxidant, to modulate NTS-mediated control of cardiovascular function in unanaesthetized rats. Male Fischer 344 rats were used for microinjection experiments. Cardiovascular responses to l -glutamate were first used to verify accurate placement of injections into the dorsomedial region comprising the NTS. Next, responses to GSH or vehicle were recorded followed by responses to l -glutamate again at the same site. GSH microinjection increased mean arterial pressure (MAP) compared to vehicle and abrogated responses to subsequent injection of l -glutamate. These data indicate that GSH microinjection into the NTS affects blood pressure regulation by dorsomedial neuronal circuits and blunts l -glutamate driven excitation in this region. These findings raise the possibility that increased antioxidant actions of GSH in NTS could contribute to autonomic control dysfunctions of the cardiovascular system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psidium guajava (guava) leaves extract displays anti-hypertensive properties by mechanisms not yet fully understood. Here, we investigated whether sympathetic drive and immune signaling mechanisms are involved with the antihypertensive effect of the guava extract in a model of salt-dependent hypertension. Raw guava extract (r Ps E) was characterized by colorimetric and UPLC-MS techniques. Two doses of r Ps E (100 and 200 mg/kg) were evaluated for anti-hypertensive effect using a suspension system (Ps E). Weaned male Wistar rats were put on a high-salt diet (HSD, 0.90 % Na+) for 16 weeks and received gavages of Ps E for the last 4 weeks. Blood pressure (BP) was measured at the end of treatment in conscious rats. The neurogenic pressor effect was assessed by ganglionic blockade with hexamethonium. Autonomic modulation of heart rate was evaluated by spectral analysis. The effects of orally administered Ps E on lumbar sympathetic nerve activity (LSNA) were assessed in anesthetized rats. Blood IL-10, IL-17A, and TNF were measured. The increased neurogenic pressor effect of HSD rats was reduced by Ps E 100 mg/kg, but not by 200 mg/kg. Ps E (200 mg/kg) administration in anesthetized rats produced a greater fall in BP of HSD rats compared to standard salt diet (SSD) rats. Ps E hypotensive response elicited an unproportionable increase in LSNA of HSD rats compared to SSD rats. Ps E (200 mg/kg) increased plasma concentrations of IL-10 but had no effect on TNF or IL-17A. Our data indicate that the antihypertensive effects of Ps E may involve autonomic mechanisms and immunomodulation by overexpression of IL-10 in salt-dependent hypertensive rats. [Display omitted] • Nanoemulsion of guava extract (Ps E) reduces blood pressure of hypertensive rats. • Ps E increases lumbar sympathetic nerve activity. • Ps E attenuates cardiovascular autonomic imbalances due to high-sodium diet intake. • Ps E increases TNF and IL-10 plasma concentrations in rats under high-salt diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thoracic traumas are common in trauma patients and mainly include pulmonary contusion, pulmonary laceration, pneumothorax, hemothorax, rib and sternum fractures and diaphragmatic hernia. The main causes are car accidents, falls and bites. Tachypnea or dyspnea are possible clinical signs, associated with hypovolemic shock and gastrointestinal signs. Thoracic injuries may be overlooked when distracting injuries, such as limb fractures, are present. Thus, thorough clinical examination is mandatory and animals with respiratory failure may require stabilization and emergency surgery. Considering the importance of thoracic trauma in clinical practice, the manuscript aimed to report the case of spurious thoracic hernia associated with traumatic laceration of the caudal lung lobe in a bitch with severe dyspnea after car trauma. After an emergency evaluation and radiographic examinations, a flail chest, rib fractures, pulmonary contusion and severe pneumothorax were diagnosed. After clinical stabilization, surgical treatment was performed to stabilize the flail chest. During surgery, herniation and laceration of the left caudal lobe of the lung were observed, and sutures were performed to correct the pulmonary laceration and stabilize the rib cage, in addition to thoracostomy to control the pneumothorax. In cases of flail chest and lobar entrapment, surgical treatment is essential, as in this case, with the aim of repairing and repositioning the pulmonary lobe and stabilizing the flail chest. Traumatic pulmonary herniation is a possible differential diagnosis in post-traumatic flail chest, as well as repairing the lobe and stabilizing the ribs using sutures are effective surgical treatment techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft corals show a wide variety of reproductive strategies, including both asexual and sexual reproduction which can influence macro-evolutionary processes. The octocoral Carijoa riisei has an ample geographical distribution in Pacific and southern Atlantic and also in Caribbean region. This species was considered invasive in Hawaii, and its capacity for rapid proliferation is recognized, but recent studies, however, have indicated that it appears to be native to the Indo-Pacific region. The present study examined the reproductive biology of C. riisei in the Atlantic basin. The results were then compared to previous studies of the same species from the Pacific (Hawaii) and Caribbean (Puerto Rico) regions to examine the hypothesis that the reproductive patterns of C. riisei populations are the same throughout its geographical distribution, independent of its native or non-native status. Samples were collected on a monthly basis from May/2007 to April/2008 at Porto de Galinhas (Pernambuco State, Brazil). This species was found to have similar reproduction patterns in Brazil, the Caribbean, and in Hawaii (a gonochoric reproductive pattern and continuous and asynchronous gamete release). The similarities of their traits contribute to its rapid proliferation and occupation of spaces left by other species, independent of its native or non-native status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this report is to show the usefulness and versatility of the Mathematica program to simulate enzyme linear pathways and to depict the effect of changing the Vmax and/or Km values of one or more enzymes on the course of the reaction. In addition, analysis of the different types of inhibition of the first enzyme of the pathway by its end product is viewed with the reservoir model for enzyme kinetics. All the data shown here are quantitatively related to the kinetic constants of the implicated enzymes. Particular attention has been paid to calculate the time needed to achieve half of the possible total synthesis of the final product of a metabolic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to analyse representations of hegemonic masculinity in physical education (PE) mixed classes, the only curricular discipline having sport as its contents in the Portuguese educational system. The analysed data come from semi‐structured interviews with Portuguese secondary school teachers and students and from class observation. The sample is formed by 10 PE teachers (five men and five women), 40 students (20 boys and 20 girls) and six classes. An inductive analysis of the data was carried out following the processing of the information by the program QSRNVivo. Sports practices seem to be responsible for spreading a hegemonic masculinity, with an implicit learning and recognition of the necessary manhood code indispensable to a full affirmation and acceptance of being a man. It seems then that we have to consider PE as a singular social space in which the discourses and the practice reiterate the traditional form of masculinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biology and the feeding habits of the subsocial species Omaspides pallidipennis were studied at the Floresta Nacional de Passa Quatro, MG, Brazil, during the period from October 2010 to April 2011. The species was bivoltine, beginning its reproductive and food cycle in October (spring) and seeking its diapause sites in April (autumn). The juveniles took 54.4 days on average to complete their development, a period in which the female remained close to offspring, only feeding during the larval stage of the juveniles. It is a monophagous species, feeding only on Ipomoea alba Linnaeus (Convolvulaceae). In the first cycle, the average number of eggs was 55.7±15.5 eggs per egg cluster (n = 1, 837 eggs in 33 clusters) and in the second it was 61.6±14.2 eggs per egg cluster (n = 5, 607 eggs in 91 clusters). Oviposition peaks were observed in the months of November and February. The average durations of the incubation period and the larval and the pupal development in the first cycle were 19.2±1.4; 26.0±1.5; 8.7±0.8 days, respectively. In the second cycle they wrere 16.7 ± 1.4; 27.0 ± 2.4; 10.2 ± 1.5 days, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article cites a morphological study on the effects of environmental factors on genetic differentiation and the phenotypic plasticity of the colonial zoanthid, Palythoa caribaeorum, in Brazilian intertidal beach rocks. It established a direct link between three harbor sites and the seasons on the adaptation of the zoanthids, in terms of variables such as their numbers, diameter and height. Homogeneity in colonies of zoanthids indicated it is a biological strategy to adapt to the environment.

Abstract: The occurrence of Hepatozoon sp. infection in dogs was evaluated in the urban area of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The study involved 300 animals, 120 from the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Uberlândia''s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 80 from private clinics, and 100 from the Animal Protective Association (APA). Among these animals, 7.66% presented Hepatozoon sp. gamonts inside neutrophils. No statistically significant difference was found among the diagnoses based on capillary and venous blood smears, but a statistical significance was identified in age range and breed. The main signs and symptoms the animals presented were pale mucous membranes, swollen lymph nodes, ocular discharge and pain in response to renal palpation. All the ticks collected were of the species Rhipicephalus sanguineus and no oocyst of the parasite was found in the hemolymph of the ixodidae. The findings of this study reinforce the presence of Hepatozoon sp. infecting dogs in Uberlândia, MG, with age and breed possibly related to the infection. The symptoms presented by the animals were consistent with those reported by other researchers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Double-chained surfactants with potential biocompatibility have been prepared in high yields by lysine acylation with four natural saturated fatty acids (C6 to C12) and with cis-undec-5-enoic acid. The surfactants were found to assemble into nanotubules in aqueous medium and, when mixed with a commercial cationic surfactant, to spontaneously form liposomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water-soluble peptide-chitosans were obtained by reaction of low-molecular-weight chitosan, having a low degree of acetylation, with peptide substituents under mild conditions. These peptide substituents were prepared by standard peptide chemistry from 3-bromopropanoic acid and tert-butyl esters of the α-amino acids glycine and phenylalanine. The structure of the new peptide-chitosan polymers was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy. The thermotropic and morphological properties of both the new peptide-chitosans and two other analogues, derived from valine and aspartic acid [synthesis reported in Batista, M. K. S., Pinto, L. F., Gomes, C. A. R., & Gomes, P. (2006). Novel highly soluble peptide-chitosan polymers: Synthesis and spectral characterization. Carbohydrate Polymers, 64, 299–305], were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. As compared to the parent unmodified chitosan, the four peptide-chitosans had higher thermosensitivity, porosity and water-holding capacity, and such effects increased with the hydrophilicity of the peptide ligands. The acid-base properties of the four peptide-chitosans were also evaluated by potentiometric techniques and reflected the influence of the inserted ligands on the polymers’ acidity constants. It was also possible to confirm the polymers’ solubility over the 2–10 pH range. Overall, these polymers present physico-chemical properties that make them promising candidates for the design of novel drug delivery systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present work aims to apply the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with carbon dioxide as a clean technology to extract the natural essential oil from a Portuguese-grown rose geranium (Pelargonium sp.). Geranium oil is an important ingredient in perfumery as middle note and is a natural resource with potential to be explored in Portugal, since this plant is well adapted to our climate and soil. A new SFE equipment was designed and constructed and it was used for the extraction of geranium. The obtained extracts were characterised by GC/MS and their organoleptic quality (colour and odour) was evaluated and compared with the materials obtained by the traditional techniques—hydrodistillation and organic solvent extraction. The best extraction conditions were: extraction time of 15–30min, temperature of 40°C, pressure of 90–100bar, cut fresh plant and dynamic mode. The SFE yields varied between 0.019 and 0.22%. The CO2 geranium extract had a superior organoleptic quality, with very fresh natural floral–fruity character and a pale yellow colour, most suitable for the use in perfumery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new concept of perfumery ternary diagrams (PTDs), based on an analogy between perfume pyramid structure and engineering ternary diagrams, was developed in this work. These diagrams allow a fast evaluation of the odour value in the headspace for all possible combinations of a perfume liquid mixture with three fragrant components and one solvent. A theoretical prediction of the PTD was made, based on perfumery binary lines (PBLs) and perfumery ternary points (PTPs). As an example, this methodology was applied to the system: benzaldehyde-2-phenylethanol-eugenol in ethanol. The effect of ethanol content in the ternary system was also studied. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of the cistus oil from Portuguese-grown rockrose (Cistus ladanifer) was determined using GC and GC/MS. A comparison was also made in terms of the geographical source and use of either dry or fresh plant material. The cistus oil herein obtained was richer in amber-like compounds and had a low content of monoterpenes when compared to the usual values found in the literature. Moreover, it presented a relatively high content of ambrox (amber odor), which usually is only reported in labdanum oil. The major constituents were three sesquiterpene alcohols: viridiflorol (13.6-17.4%), globulol (3.1-5.0%) and an unknown sesquiterpene alcohol (2.7- 6.0%), as well as the diterpene alcohol 15-nor-labdan-8-ol (1.7-5.2%). Three samples of commercially available cistus oil were also analyzed and compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of the Portuguese-grown geranium essential oil (Pelargonium hybrid)cultivated in northern Portugal, which also grows wild,was examined. It was found that the geranium oil herein obtained had characteristics intermediate between Bourbon and China types, with good olfactory quality and presenting characteristics different from those previously studied. The essential oils of fresh/dried and green/yellow geranium leaves were compared. Solvent extraction methods were also employed and the composition of the respective absolutes was determined and compared with the essential oil. It was concluded that using air-dried plant and yellow leaves improved the quality of geranium oil. Moreover, the absolute obtained from a diethyl ether extract had the best organoleptic properties of the extracts studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of imidazolidin-4-one derivatives of primaquine as potential antimalarial agents is described. The target compounds were synthesized in three steps: (i) condensation of (±)-primaquine with Nα-protected amino acids, (ii) removal of the Nα-protecting group, and (iii) reaction of the N-acylprimaquine with a carbonyl compound: acetone, three cyclic ketones and veratraldehyde. Using 2-formylbenzoic acid in the third step afforded 1H-imidazo[2,1-a]isoindole-2,5(3H,9bH)-diones. All products were isolated in good to excellent yields. Whereas imidazolidin-4-ones were formed as mixtures of all possible diastereomers in equal amounts, 1H-imidazo[2,1-a]isoindole-2,5(3H,9bH)-diones were produced in a stereoselective fashion. The compounds hydrolyse very slowly (t1/2 5–30 d) in pH 7.4 buffer to release primaquine. These primaquine derivatives are being submitted to biological assays, and preliminary results of their antimalarial activity are quite encouraging. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Acylation of antimalarial and bacteriostatic sulfonamides with N-protected amino acids and peptides was carried out using standard peptide coupling methods. These acylation reactions are regioselective for the N4 nitrogen atom of diazine-containing sulfonamides. In contrast, only N1 coupling was found for sulfisoxazole, an isoxazole-based sulfonamide. Computational studies suggest that a combination of geometrical, thermodynamic and electronic factors are responsible for the different reactivities reported. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Peptide chloromethyl esters are important compounds in prodrug synthesis. A simple, mild and efficient method for the synthesis of chloromethyl esters of N-blocked amino acids and dipeptides using exclusively bromochloromethane is reported. These N-blocked amino acid and dipeptide chloromethyl esters react readily with the carboxylic acid group of aspirin and with the sulfonamido group of the antimalarial sulfamethazine, to give the corresponding prodrugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro shoots of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) were established under four different cytokinin supplementations by culturing nodal segments excised from aseptically germinated seedlings. The highest rates of shoot proliferation and linear shoot growth occurred with the supplementation of 1.5 mg/l benzyladenine and 0.05 mg/l dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. However, under these conditions, the specific production of total antioxidant phenolics was the lowest. Variation in kinetin (KIN) concentration (1.5; 2.0; 4.0 mg/l), in the presence of 0.05 mg/l 2,4-D, did not influence significantly the rates of shoot proliferation and linear shoot growth but influenced the production of antioxidant phenolics and biomass. Seventeen compounds were identified in the antioxidant phenolic extracts from shoots: gallic acid, 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, caffeic acid, and rosmarinic acid, as phenolic acids; hesperetin, apigenin, hispidulin, cirsimaritin, and genkwanin, as flavonoids; epirosmanol, epirosmanol methyl ether, carnosol, epiisorosmanol ethyl ether, rosmadial, carnosic acid, and methyl carnosate, as phenolic diterpenes. With exception of carnosic acid and methyl carnosate, all the other phenolic compounds (15) were also identified in a commercial sample of this species. Rosmarinic acid and carnosol were the main compounds in all the antioxidant phenolic extracts. The increase in concentration of KIN decreased the accumulation of the most of phenolic diterpenes, particularly that of carnosol. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Using standardized scales to assess motor development via telemedicine can increase access for low-income populations. Our aim was to verify the agreement and feasibility between remotely and synchronously applying the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) and the in-person format.This was a concordance study, with 77 typical infants aged 4–18 months (mean = 13 months). The AIMS was applied remote via video calls and face-to-face. We applied a questionnaire to caregivers to verify feasibility.There was a high level of agreement between the remote and in-person assessments, with intraclass correlation coefficients above 0.98 and low standard error measure values (<1 item for each posture, <2 items for the total raw score, and =5% for the normative score). The smallest detectable change was between 1.67 and 2.45 for each posture, 3 for the total raw score, and 6% for the normative score. The Bland–Altman analysis showed low bias with the mean difference close to zero (<0.80) and low error with little dispersion of the difference points around the mean. Caregivers’ perspectives on the synchronous remote assessment were positive, with good quality, clear information during the assessment, and comfort with the method.The synchronous remote application of the AIMS may be an alternative for families without access to in-person services that assess motor development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, rapidly progressive, and fatal neurodegenerative disease. As the disease progresses, there is a decline in functional status, increased dependence, and limitation, which can have a considerable impact on the quality of life of these individuals. To investigate the correlation between functional status and quality of life in individuals with ALS. Exploratory cross-sectional study. The study included individuals diagnosed with ALS, following the Awaji criteria, aged 18 years or older, followed by a Neuromuscular Disease Center. Individuals diagnosed with other neurological disorder or who showed signs and symptoms of cognitive alterations could not participate. Functional status and quality of life were measured by Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) and ALS Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-40), respectively. To investigate the correlation between the two variables, Pearson's correlation and linear regression were used, considering a significance level of 5%. Statistical tests were performed using SPSS program. Eighty-four individuals participated in the study with mean age of 56.6 (SD 11.4) years and a median of 1.0 year of diagnosis. Most participants had ALS of appendicular onset (82.1%) and had both appendicular and bulbar involvement (91.7%). The mean ALSAQ-40 score was 265.2 (SD 111.9) and the mean ALSFRS-R score was 30.1 (SD 10.5). There was a strong correlation between functional status and quality of life (r= -0.826; p=0.000). When evaluating the correlation between the domains of ALSFRS-R and quality of life, a strong correlation was found with bulbar domain (r=-0.756; p=0.000), moderate with motor (r=-0.677; p=0.000) and weak with respiratory function (r=-0.214; p=0.050). The ALSFRS-R score explained 82.6% of the variation in the scores of ALSAQ-40 (R2=0,826; p=0,000). Functional status is correlated with quality of life in individuals with ALS. Therefore, it is essential to considerer the relationship between functional status and quality of life when monitoring this population. Future studies should investigate strategies for maintaining functional status for as long as possible and whether they are able to improve the quality of life of individuals with ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Postmortem studies suggest that thin-cap fibroatheroma (TFCA) is the main anatomic substrate for acute myocardial infarction. In vivo high resolution intravascular imaging such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings are scarce and subject of controversy associated with the debate regarding phenotypes and plaque characteristics in ACS pts. Purpose: To investigate culprit plaque phenotypes and composition in pts with ACS by applying a contemporary microstructural analysis and definition. Methods: Between 2012 and 2017, 110 pts with ACS who underwent pre-intervention OCT imaging were retrospectively identified. OCT examination was performed using either C7-XR or LightLab Imaging Inc (Abbott Vascular, USA). OCT images were quantitatively and qualitative analyzed using the dedicated software QIVUS (3.0, Medis Medical Imaging Systems, the Netherlands version). TCFA was defined as plaque with the maximal lipid arc > 90 degree and thinnest fibrous thickness of 65 um or less. Plaques were described according to phenotypes (fibrotic, fibrocalcific, thick-layer fibroatheroma [ThCFA], and TCFA) and were also classified on 3 subgroups: rupture, erosion, and calcified nodule. Pts were gathered in 2 groups: unstable angina (UA)/non-STEMI and STEMI. Results: Among 110 lesions, 54 (49%) were UA, 31 (28) were non-STEMI) and 25 (23%) were STEMI. Compared with pts UA/Non-STEMI, those with STEMI had greater percentage of lipid arch, red thrombus, higher rate of rupture plaque and TFCA (Table). Independent predictors of plaque rupture were diabetes (OR 6.16; IC 1.33-28.58; p-value 0.02), and STEMI presentation (OR 9.35; IC 1.66- 52.61; p-value- 0.01). There was a trend toward a protective effect of prior statin use for plaque rupture (OR 0.38; IC 0.11- 1.29; p-value 0.12). Table1: Morphological and Phenotypes Plaque Analysis in Patients with ACS Conclusion: In this single-center study, culprit lesion of pts with STEMI had more necrotic core, red thrombus, and TFCA with plaque rupture; whereas pts with UA/Non-STEMI had more ThFCA and fibrotic/fibrocalcic plaques. Hence, clinical presentation may be driven by distinct pathophysiologic mechanisms in ACS pts. Independent predictor of plaque rupture were associated with clinical condition (diabetes), and presentation (STEMI). The use of statin prior hospitalization may be protective against plaque rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We carried out a literature review to investigate the taxonomic and functional β diversity of zooplankton and its species replacement (βrepl) and richness difference (βrich) components in Brazilian rivers. In addition, the taxonomic (LCBD-t) and functional ecological uniqueness (LCBD-f) were also measured. We tested the following hypotheses: (i) The βrepl component is the main driver of taxonomic β diversity, while βrich is most important for functional β diversity, due to functional simplification; (ii) Sites with lower taxonomic and functional richness are the ones that most contribute to LCBD. Contrary to expectations, βrich drove the taxonomic and functional β diversity. This may have occurred due to environmental constraints and geographic distance, thus causing a loss or gain of species and traits between hydrographic regions. For just two regions, the sites with the lowest functional richness were the ones that most contributed to LCBD-f. This reinforces that sites with lower richness can support species that perform unique functions in the ecosystem. As studies involving zooplankton from lotic systems are still limited in Brazil, we suggest that future research should consider the patterns of β diversity in these dynamic, diverse, and threatened aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bursaphelenchus xylophilus is a destructive phytophagous nematode that mainly infects pine species and causes pine wilt disease (PWD). PWD is one of the most devastating diseases that has damaged the pine forests of eastern Asia and Portugal for the last four decades. B. xylophilus infects healthy pine trees through Monochamus beetles and its subsequent proliferation results in destruction of the infected pine trees. The poor water solubility and high cost of currently used trunk-injected chemicals such as avermectin and abamectin for the prevention of PWD are major concerns. Thus, for the identification of new compounds targeting the different targets, five proteins including cathepsin L-like cystein proteinase, peroxiredoxins, hsp90, venome allergen protein and tubulin that are known to be important for development and pathogenicity of B. xylophilus were selected. The compounds were virtually screened against five proposed targets through molecular docking into hypothetical binding sites located in a homology-built protein model. Of the fifteen nematicides screened, amocarzine, mebendazole and flubendazole were judged to bind best. For these best docked compounds, structural and electronic properties were calculated through density functional theory studies. The results emphasize that these compounds could be potential lead compounds that can be further developed into nematicidal chemical against B. xylophilus. However, further studies are required to ascertain the nematicidal activity of these compounds against phytophagous nematode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Drosophila suzukii is a major destructive insect pest with a pandemic distribution. The lack of effective green control measures for this pest has prompted the search for new approaches, among which are peptides from animal venom. In this study, the biological activity of two underexplored spider venom peptides (J-atracotoxin-Hv1c and µ-theraphotoxin-Hhn2b) was assessed against adult D. suzukii flies, as well as the biological response of flies to these peptides through detoxification mechanisms. Results demonstrate that µ-theraphotoxin-Hhn2b enhanced fly longevity. Gene expression analysis suggests that detoxification and stress-related mechanisms are triggered in D. suzukii flies in response to treatment with these peptides. Our results highlight the potential of venom peptides to control D. suzukii, underscoring the issue of how to ultimately devise improved target-specific formulations. The spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) is a polyphagous pest that causes severe damage and economic losses to soft-skinned fruit production. Current control methods are dominated by inefficient cultural practices and broad-spectrum insecticides that, in addition to having toxic effects on non-target organisms, are becoming less effective due to acquired resistance. The increasing awareness of the real impact of insecticides on health and the environment has promoted the exploration of new insecticidal compounds, addressing novel molecular targets. This study explores the efficacy of two orally delivered spider venom peptides (SVPs), J-atracotoxin-Hv1c (Hv1c) and µ-theraphotoxin-Hhn2b (TRTX), to manage D. suzukii, through survival assays and the evaluation of gene expression associated with detoxification pathways. Treatment with TRTX at 111.5 µM for 48 h enhanced fly longevity compared with the control group. Gene expression analysis suggests that detoxification and stress-related mechanisms, such as expression of P450 proteins and apoptotic stimuli signaling, are triggered in D. suzukii flies in response to these treatments. Our results highlight the potential interest of SVPs to control this pest, shedding light on how to ultimately develop improved target-specific formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is key to fight bacterial adhesion to prevent biofilm establishment on biomaterials. Surface immobilization of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) is a promising strategy to avoid bacterial colonization. This work aimed to investigate whether the direct surface immobilization of Dhvar5, an AMP with head-to-tail amphipathicity, would improve the antimicrobial activity of chitosan ultrathin coatings. The peptide was grafted by copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) chemistry by either its C- or N- terminus to assess the influence of peptide orientation on surface properties and antimicrobial activity. These features were compared with those of coatings fabricated using previously described Dhvar5-chitosan conjugates (immobilized in bulk). The peptide was chemoselectively immobilized onto the coating by both termini. Moreover, the covalent immobilization of Dhvar5 by either terminus enhanced the antimicrobial effect of the chitosan coating by decreasing colonization by both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria. Relevantly, the antimicrobial performance of the surface on Gram-positive bacteria depended on how Dhvar5-chitosan coatings were produced. An antiadhesive effect was observed when the peptide was grafted onto prefabricated chitosan coatings (film), and a bactericidal effect was exhibited when coatings were prepared from Dhvar5-chitosan conjugates (bulk). This antiadhesive effect was not due to changes in surface wettability or protein adsorption but rather depended on variations in peptide concentration, exposure, and surface roughness. Results reported in this study show that the antibacterial potency and effect of immobilized AMP vary greatly with the immobilization procedure. Overall, independently of the fabrication protocol and mechanism of action, Dhvar5-chitosan coatings are a promising strategy for the development of antimicrobial medical devices, either as an antiadhesive or contact-killing surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nucleocapsid (N) protein is highlighted as the main target for COVID-19 diagnosis by antigen detection due to its abundance in circulation early during infection. However, the effects of the described mutations in the N protein epitopes and the efficacy of antigen testing across SARS-CoV-2 variants remain controversial and poorly understood. Here, we used immunoinformatics to identify five epitopes in the SARS-CoV-2 N protein (N(34–48), N(89–104), N(185–197), N(277–287), and N(378–390)) and validate their reactivity against samples from COVID-19 convalescent patients. All identified epitopes are fully conserved in the main SARS-CoV-2 variants and highly conserved with SARS-CoV. Moreover, the epitopes N(185–197) and N(277–287) are highly conserved with MERS-CoV, while the epitopes N(34–48), N(89–104), N(277–287), and N(378–390) are lowly conserved with common cold coronaviruses (229E, NL63, OC43, HKU1). These data are in accordance with the observed conservation of amino acids recognized by the antibodies 7R98, 7N0R, and 7CR5, which are conserved in the SARS-CoV-2 variants, SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV but lowly conserved in common cold coronaviruses. Therefore, we support the antigen tests as a scalable solution for the population-level diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, but we highlight the need to verify the cross-reactivity of these tests against the common cold coronaviruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Findings What is the central question of this study? In this study, we sought to investigate whether cardiovascular responses to peripheral chemoreflex activation of rats recovered from protein restriction are related to activation of AT1 receptors., What is the main finding and its importance? This study highlights the fact that angiotensinergic mechanisms activated by AT1 receptors do not support increased responses to peripheral chemoreflex activation by KCN in rats recovered from protein restriction. Also, we found that protein restriction led to increased resting ventilation in adult rats, even after recovery., The effects of a low-protein diet followed by recovery on cardiorespiratory responses to peripheral chemoreflex activation were tested before and after systemic angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor antagonism. Male Fischer rats were divided into control and recovered (R-PR) groups after weaning. The R-PR rats were fed a low-protein (8%) diet for 35 days and recovered with a normal protein (20%) diet for 70 days. Control rats received a normal protein diet for 105 days (CG105). After cannulation surgery, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, respiratory frequency, tidal volume and minute ventilation were acquired using a digital recording system in freely moving rats. The role of angintensin II was evaluated by systemic antagonism of AT1 receptors with losartan (20 mg kg−1 i.v.). The peripheral chemoreflex was elicited by increasing doses of KCN (20-160 μg kg min−1, i.v.). At baseline, R-PR rats presented increased heart rate and minute ventilation (372 ± 34 beats min−1 and 1.274 ± 377 ml kg−1 min−1) compared with CG105 animals (332 ± 22 beats min−1 and 856 ± 112 ml kg−1 min−1). Mean arterial pressure was not different between the groups. Pressor and bradycardic responses evoked by KCN (60 μg kg−1) were increased in R-PR (+45 ± 13 mmHg and −77 ± 47 beats min−1) compared with CG105 rats (+25 ± 17 mmHg and −27 ± 28 beats min−1), but no difference was found in the tachypnoeic response. These differences were preserved after losartan. The data suggest that angiotensin II acting on AT1 receptors may not be associated with the increased heart rate, increased minute ventilation and acute cardiovascular responses to peripheral chemoreflex activation in rats that underwent postweaning protein restriction followed by recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the synthesis, structural and thermal analysis, and in vitro evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of two new organic salts (OSs) derived from the antimycobacterial drug clofazimine and the fluoroquinolones ofloxacin or norfloxacin. Organic salts derived from active pharmaceutical ingredients (API-OSs), as those herein disclosed, hold promise as cost-effective formulations with improved features over their parent drugs, thus enabling the mitigation of some of their shortcomings. For instance, in the specific case of clofazimine, its poor solubility severely limits its bioavailability. As compared to clofazimine, the clofazimine-derived OSs now reported have improved solubility and thermostability, without any major deleterious effects on the drug's bioactivity profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood, and high-risk disease is resistant to intensive treatment. Histotripsy is a focused ultrasound therapy under development for tissue ablation via bubble activity. The goal of this study was to assess outcomes of histotripsy ablation in a xenograft model of high-risk NB. Female NCr nude mice received NGP-luciferase cells intrarenally. Under ultrasound image guidance, histotripsy pulses were applied over a distance of 4–6 mm within the tumors. Bioluminescence indicative of tumor viability was quantified before, immediately after, and 24 h after histotripsy exposure. Tumors were immunostained to assess apoptosis (TUNEL), endothelium (endomucin), pericytes (αSMA), hypoxia (pimonidazole), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B). The apoptotic cytokine TNFα and its downstream effector cleaved caspase-3 (c-casp-3) were assessed with SDS-PAGE. Histotripsy induced a 50% reduction in bioluminescence compared to untreated controls, with an absence of nuclei in the treatment core surrounded by a dense rim of TUNEL-positive cells. Tumor regions not targeted by histotripsy also showed an increase in TUNEL staining density. Increased apoptosis in histotripsy samples was consistent with increases in TNFα and c-casp-3 relative to controls. Treated tumors exhibited a decrease in hypoxia, VEGF, PDGF-B, and pericyte coverage of vasculature compared to control samples. Further, increases in vasodilation were found in histotripsy-treated specimens. In addition to ablative effects, histotripsy was found to drive tumor apoptosis through intrinsic pathways, altering blood vessel architecture, and reducing hypoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multifunctional alkoxysilane precursor, 2,6-bis(propyl-trimethoxysilylurelene)pyridine (DPS) was designed and synthesized, envisaging a multiple hydrogen-bond interaction in the molecular imprinting of the drug aminoglutethimide (AGT). Imprinted xerogels were obtained in bulk and spherical formats. The spherical format was achieved by pore-filling onto spherical mesoporous silica, as a straightforward technique to generate the spherical format. The bulk gels presented better selectivity for the template against its glutarimide (GLU) analogue (selectivity factor: bulk 13.4; spherical 4.6), and good capacity (bulk 5521 μmol/L; spherical 2679 μmol/L) and imprinting factor parameters (bulk 11.3; spherical 1.4). On the other hand, the microspherical format exhibited better dynamic properties associated to chromatographic efficiency (theoretical plates: bulk 6.8; spherical 75) and mass transfer, due mainly to the existence of a mesoporous network, lacking in the bulk material. The performance of the imprinted xerogels was not as remarkable as that of their acrylic counterparts, previously described. Overall it was demonstrated that the use of designed new “breeds” of organo-alkoxysilanes may be a strategy to achieve satisfactory imprints by the sol–gel processes. DPS may in principle be applied even more effectively to other templates bearing better-matching spatially compatible acceptor–donor–acceptor arrays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tyrosine sulfation is a common post-translational modification operative in many biological processes, including hemostasis and intracellular trafficking. However, the precise structural and functional role of sulfotyrosine residues is not fully understood, so there is a demand for further detailed studies on the role of tyrosine sulfation in biochemical processes. Unfortunately, studies on the biological roles of tyrosine sulfation are hampered by difficulties in gaining access to large quantities of high-purity and homogeneous sulfoproteins and sulfopeptides. This, however, may be addressed by appropriate solid-phase peptide synthesis strategies, and these constitute the core subject of this review. An overview of efficient approaches to the synthesis of sulfopeptides and their associated pros and cons is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The zoantharian Isaurus tuberculatus Gray, 1828 is highly variable in its morphology, and considered pantropical. As it is a shallow water and zooxanthellate species, its wide distribution has been questioned, and it is likely that the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific populations are distinct species. Here we update the distribution of this species in Brazil and provide the first description of the microanatomy and cnidom of populations in the South Atlantic. Along the Brazilian coast, the species is distributed from Ceará to Bahia, and is also in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]