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Lipase cartridges are currently the mainstay of treatment to improve fat absorption related to pancreatic insufficiency (PI) in patients receiving enteral nutrition feedings. Enzyme immobilization is an essential prerequisite for designing lipase cartridges systems for efficient enzymatic fat hydrolysis. A microfluidic approach has been adopted to produce lipase (LIP) caged in hyperbranched polyglycerol microcapsules (HPGly). The resulting HPGly-LIP microcapsules are spherical and had an average diameter of 29 µm with monomodal size distribution. The optimum conditions determined by artificial neural networks were HPGly concentration of 10 wt.%, LIP loading of 20% (wt) and total flow rate in microfluidic cell of 1.0 mL/h. Under these conditions, the maximum capacity of the LIP that can be microencapsulated is around 85% with respect to the HPGly concentration of 10 wt.% and total flow rate in microfluidic cell of 1.0 mL/h. This resultant HPGly-LIP exhibited Michaelis-Menten coefficients of 1.138,14 mM (Km) and 0.49 U/mg (Vmax) showing higher activity compared to free LIP. Finally, the robust HPGly-LIP microcapsules showed excellent recyclability. The in vitro Analysis of the HPGly-LIP cytotoxicity showed that microcapsules had no cytotoxic effect to L929 fibroblasts cells and behaved very similar to the negative control. These features will be useful for the facile construction of biocatalytic systems with high efficiency, excellent recyclability and adequate biocompatibility for treatment of patients with PI receiving enteral nutrition feedings.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-29T08:29:30Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-07-01 Mantle cell lymphoma is an aggressive B-cell, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, with lymph node or extranodal origin, and a mean survival of three to five years. Skin involvement is rare, secondary and indicates neoplasia dissemination. The authors report a case of a female patient, 69 years old, diagnosed previously, after lymph node and bone marrow biopsy. She was undergoing the second chemotherapy regimen when she showed infiltrated plaque-like lesions, nodules and tumors on the trunk and thigh root. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry demonstrated cutaneous infiltration of the blastoid lymphoma. Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine Universidade Estadual Paulista Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine Universidade Estadual Paulista

Neonatal heart regeneration depends on proliferation of pre-existing cardiomyocytes, yet the mechanisms driving regeneration and cardiomyocyte proliferation are not comprehensively understood. We recently reported that the anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin 13 (IL13), promotes neonatal cardiac regeneration; however, the signaling pathway and cell types mediating this regenerative response remain unknown. Here, we hypothesized that expression of the type II heterodimer receptor for IL13, comprised of IL4Rα and IL13Rα1, expressed directly on cardiomyocytes mediates cardiomyocyte cell cycle and heart regeneration in neonatal mice. Our data demonstrate that indeed global deletion of one critical subunit of the type II receptor, IL4Rα (IL4Rα(−/−)), decreases cardiomyocyte proliferation during early postnatal development and significantly impairs cardiac regeneration following injury in neonatal mice. While multiple myocardial cell types express IL4Rα, we demonstrate that IL4Rα deletion specifically in cardiomyocytes mediates cell cycle activity and neonatal cardiac regeneration. This demonstrates for the first time a functional role for IL4Rα signaling directly on cardiomyocytes in vivo. Reciprocally, we examined the therapeutic benefit of activating the IL4Rα receptor in non-regenerative hearts via IL13 administration. Following myocardial infarction, administration of IL13 reduced scar size and promoted cardiomyocyte DNA synthesis and karyokinesis, but not complete cytokinesis, in 6-day old non-regenerative mice. Our data demonstrate a novel role for IL4Rα signaling directly on cardiomyocytes during heart regeneration and suggest the potential for type II receptor activation as one potential therapeutic target for promoting myocardial repair.

Context The estimation of genetic parameters for traits related to the production of milk, beef or both may assist in defining the selection criteria and objectives of the breeding program, as well as in the identification and selection of genetically superior animals. Aims The objectives of this study were to estimate genetic parameters for body weight and 305-day milk yield of Guzera cattle and to perform cluster analysis on the basis of estimated breeding values for these traits, to identify groups of animals that could be selected for the production of beef, milk or dual purpose. Methods Body weights (N = 253 012) of males and females were ecorded at 120 days of age (BW120), at weaning (WW), at 365 days (BW365), at yearling stage (YW) and at 24 months (BW24), and 6237 complete lactations (MY305) of 4723 cows were used to estimate the genetic parameters. The bi-trait animal models included direct additive genetic, maternal permanent environmental and temporary random effects for body weights and additive genetic, permanent environmental and temporary environmental random effects for MY305. The fixed effects for all the traits were contemporary group and age of cow at calving. Key results The estimates of heritability ranged from 0.14 ± 0.01 for WW to 0.23 ± 0.01 for MY305. The genetic correlations between body weights at different ages and milk yield were positive and ranged from 0.27 ± 0.11 to 0.38 ± 0.19. Two principal components explained 86.74% of the total genetic variance among the traits. Conclusions Cluster analysis identified four different clusters and showed that the Guzera breed had bulls with different genetic patterns that permits genetic selection for beef, milk or dual purpose. Implications The genetic correlations of the present study suggest that selection to increase milk yield will lead to a slight genetic gain in the same direction for body weight at different ages, in contrast to reports from some other studies.

Living bamboo stalks are one of the most specialized habitats for mosquito oviposition and immature development. Most of the mosquito species that breed in these habitats are sylvatic, and some are of importance for public health as possible vectors of pathogens. Perforated internodes are a very specialized environment due to the difficulty of access. Furthermore, due to their relatively simple fauna, they represent a valuable model for ecological studies that may be applicable to more complex environments. This study aims to assess the mosquito bionomics of species raised in bamboo internodes. Therefore, the diversity of mosquito species and the influence of abiotic variables (pH and temperature) on the distribution of mosquitoes that breed in this habitat were analyzed. The study area is a fragment of Atlantic Forest within the Association of da Armada (ATA) in Nova Iguaçu, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Immature mosquitoes were sampled with suction tubes (mouth aspirators) between August 2017 and July 2018. A total of 3,170 larvae were collected in 5 bamboo plants, each with 8 stalks perforated. Of these, 688 larvae reached the adult stage, representing 10 genera and 19 species. The most common species were Culex neglectus (43%), Trichoprosopon digitatum (22%), Culex iridescens (8%), Sabethes identicus (7%), and Orthopodomyia albicosta (7%). The richness of the immatures collected in the ATA was 19 species, with a diversity of 1.10 and Shannon evenness of 0.57. A diverse composition of Culicidae in bamboo stalks was found, although dominance was low.

Bovine vaccinia (BV) is an infectious disease caused by Vaccinia virus (VACV) characterized by vesicular and exanthematic lesions, mainly in cattle. Although BV has been described in some Brazilian regions in the last decades, official information regarding the current prevalence in bovine herds of Midwestern Brazil is lacking. Thus, the current study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with BV in cattle in the Distrito Federal (DF), Brazil. Sera of 312 cows of 64 herds were tested by virus-neutralizing test for VACV antibodies. Herd and animal seroprevalence were estimated to be 33.3% (CI 95%: 18.2–48.3%) and 10.6% (CI 95%: 1.0–20.2%), respectively. Seropositive cows were detected in dairy, beef, and mixed-purpose farms. The results of an epidemiological questionnaire showed that no risk factor analyzed was positively associated with seropositivity to VACV. There was no significant association between type of milking (manual/mechanic) and seropositivity to VACV; however, most seropositive cows were present in farms with high daily milk production and high number of lactating and adult cows. Our results indicate that VACV circulates in many regions of DF with considerable prevalence in dairy cows. Control measures to restrict VACV circulation and consequences of the infection may be advisable.

a Universidade Regional do Cariri, URCA, Cel Ant^onio Luis, 1161, 63105-000, Pimenta, Crato, CE, Brazil b Universidade Federal do Paran a, UFPR, XV de Novembro, 1299, 80.060-000, Centro, Curitiba, PR, Brazil c Universidade Regional de Blumenau, FURB, Ant^onio da Veiga, 140, 89030-903, Itoupava Seca, Blumenau, SC, Brazil d Laborat orio de investiga¸c~ao em Gen etica e Hematologia Translacional, Instituto Gon¸calo Moniz (IGM), Funda¸c~ao Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, BA 40296- 710, Brazil e Centro Universit ario Doutor Le~ao Sampaio (Unile~ao), Av. Maria Leticia Leite Pereira s/n, Lagoa Seca, Juazeiro do Norte, Brazil

Lucas Amaral-Machado,1 Wógenes N Oliveira,1 Manoela Torres-Rêgo,2 Allanny A Furtado,3 Éverton N Alencar,1 Matheus F Fernandes-Pedrosa,3 Hugo AO Rocha,1 Eryvaldo Sócrates Tabosa Egito1,3 1Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; 2Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; 3Graduate Program of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, BrazilCorrespondence: Eryvaldo Sócrates Tabosa EgitoFederal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua Jaguarari, 4985 – Apt. 1603D - 59054-500, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, BrazilTel +55-84-994-31-88-16Fax +55-84-3342-9817; +55-84-3342-9817-9808Email socratesegito@gmail.comBackground: Although bullfrog oil (BFO) exerts anti-inflammatory effects, it has undesirable properties limiting its use.Methodology: BFO nanocapsules (BFONc) were produced through nanoprecipitation, and their physicochemical and morphological properties were characterized. To evaluate the biocompatibility of the formulation, a mitochondrial activity evaluation assay was conducted, and cell uptake was assessed. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), type-6 interleukin (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels. The in vivo anti-inflammatory effect was assessed by quantifying myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model.Results: BFONc showed a particle size of 233 ± 22 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.17 ± 0.03, and a zeta potential of − 34 ± 2.6mV. BFONc revealed remarkable biocompatibility and did not induce changes in cell morphology. Furthermore, BFONc decreased ROS levels by 81 ± 4%; however, NO level increased by 72 ± 18%. TNF and IL-6 levels were reduced by approximately 10% and 90%, respectively. Significant in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was observed compared to dexamethasone. MPO levels were reduced up to 2 MPOs/mg.Conclusion: Taken together, the results pointed out the remarkable biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory effects of BFONc.Keywords: polyunsaturated fatty acids, bullfrog oil, nanocapsules, anti-inflammatory activity

The American continent harbors thirteen species of the genus Callinectes, eight of which are distributed in Atlantic South America. This genus has three identification keys for adult individuals only, proposed by Williams and Melo. The first one uses sexual characters to distinguish the species, which prevents the identification of juveniles due to the presence of a sealed abdomen. The other two are similar, both use the form and arrangement of the carapace teeth and have never been systematically tested on juveniles. Therefore, no formal identification keys have been proved to be useful for identify juvenile Callinectes based on any characters. Consequently, there is a lack of baseline studies in taxonomic variation regarding the differences between individuals of this genus. In this study, we investigated the suitability of identification keys, developed for adult individuals of the genus Callinectes, for juvenile individuals. Therefore, we evaluated the degree of dissimilarity of the body shape using the 2D landmark geometric morphometric technique. We compared the results of intra- and interspecific body shape with the key descriptions proposed by Williams and Melo for adults. This study included 537 individuals (juveniles and adults) and is the first effort to propose diagnosis for juvenile Callinectes, demonstrating that the carapace shape is a variable structure with potential to identify juveniles of these species. The results of mean body shape showed the possibility of extending the identification keys developed for adults to earlier ontogenetic classes (juveniles) when analyzed in conjunction with more distinguishable morphological characters tested in this study.

Leprosy is a chronic disease with clinical presentations according to the immunologic spectrum. Lepromatous form is the most advanced, with the highest transmissibility and risk of causing disabilities. Lucio’s phenomenon is a rare manifestation among lepromatous patients with a rapid and severe evolution and high mortality. It is difficult to differentiate from ulcerative/necrotic erythema nodosum leprosum and has no consensus on how it should be treated. This article is a qualitative review of the literature after the introduction of multidrug therapy, aiming to bring consensus related to the clinical, laboratory and histopathological diagnostic criteria of the disease and its management.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-05-01T12:40:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-09-27 This cross-sectional study evaluates the presence of antibodies against Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in cattle raised in Realeza, PR. There was a seroprevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii of 87.5% and 67.9%, respectively in the properties assessed. The frequencies of T. gondii and N. caninum in the animals were 41.1% and 55.1%, respectively. The studied coccidia are widely distributed in dairy cows reared on family farms in the municipality of Realeza, PR. Sanitary control for reproductive diseases must be adopted to prevent miscarriages and the economic damage caused by the disease. Future studies should be performed to investigate how widespread these pathogens are in cattle herds in southwestern Parana. Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul Campus Realeza Universidade Estadual Paulista Campus Jaboticabal Universidade Estadual Paulista Campus Jaboticabal

While biodiesel from jatropha oil is oxidation-sensitive and fluid, palm oil-biodiesel is more stable, but with sub-optimal fluid dynamics. Mixing these oils before reaction could be advantageous f...

The Northeast region of Brazil has gaps in the distribution of several species of crustaceans. In the last decade, the increase in the sampling effort and the elaboration of species lists have minimized this problem. In some cases, studies suggest that these “gaps” in the distribution of some organisms may be a natural part of a discontinuity in their geographical limits. During the lobster fishing expeditions on coral reefs in the north coast of Rio Grande do Norte (RN), for the first time, the spider crab Mithrax tortugae was captured in RN. After capture, some specimens were sent to the UFRN aquatic fauna laboratory for identification and biometrics. After confirmation of identification, they were deposited in the UFRN invertebrate collection. Thus, the present work aims to update the distribution area of the species, and to fill an existing gap for the Northeast region, bringing the first record of Mithrax tortugae on the coast of Rio Grande do Norte.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the addition of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to feed contaminated with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the performance and health of tambaqui fingerlings. A fully randomised study design was used, represented by four treatments: (T1) with 0.0 μg/kg of AFB1 and 0.0 colony forming unit (cfu)/g of yeast (control); (T2) with 0.0 μg/kg of AFB1 and 106 cfu/g of yeast; (T3) with 100 μg/kg of AFB1 and 0.0 cfu/g of yeast and (T4) with 100 μg/kg of AFB1 and 106 cfu/g of yeast, with four repetitions per treatment. Over a period of 34 days, 192 fingerlings with an initial weight of 2.9±0.2 g and length of 26.1±1.3 mm were used, distributed in 16 tanks with 12 fish per experimental unit. The following parameters were evaluated: water quality, zootechnical performance, histopathological analysis, counting and isolation of yeasts from the feed and intestine. No significant differences were observed (P>0.05) in the initial weight, initial length, final length, specific growth rate, mean length gain, Fulton condition factor (K Factor) or survival rate of the tambaqui fingerlings during the trial period. Statistical differences (P1. The S. cerevisiae A8L2 strain was able to colonise the intestine of tambaqui fingerlings, however, its addition in conjunction with 100 μg/kg AFB1 to fingerling feed did not promote improvements in performance indices or the histopathological parameters of these animals.

A tuberculose (TB) é uma doença infecciosa causada principalmente pelo agente Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (Mtb), que possui uma interação única com o sistema imunológico, passando para a fase ativa apenas em consideráveis deficiências imunológicas. O tabagismo é um dos principais fatores que predispõem ao desenvolvimento da doença, pois o tabagismo prejudica a defesa imunológica e facilita a manifestação da fase ativa da TB. Às vezes, o hábito de fumar leva os indivíduos a abandonar o tratamento da tuberculose, que é quase sempre curável. Objetivo: Avaliar a relação intrínseca causada pelo sistema de fumar no processo de desenvolvimento da tuberculose. Metodologia: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática, utilizando três bancos de dados, Scielo, Pubmed e BVS (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde), que utilizaram o filtro para selecionar os artigos da LILACS e Medline. Uma pergunta central foi feita: como as interações do tabagismo com o sistema imunológico contribuem para o desenvolvimento da forma ativa da infecção por Mycobacterium Tuberculosis? Além de quatro questões secundárias: como o fumo interfere no sistema imunológico? Quais são os mecanismos de interação do sistema imunológico e o desenvolvimento da TB? Como o tabagismo contribui para o aparecimento da tuberculose? Como o uso passado de tabaco contribui para um prognóstico “ruim” para o paciente com TB? Posteriormente, foram reunidos os critérios de inclusão e exclusão e, ao final, foram analisados 17 artigos, de 2002 a 2018, abrangendo inglês, português e espanhol. Resultados e discussão: O tabaco duplica a chance de contrair tuberculose. Com o sistema imunológico competente, o Mtb é restrito a um granuloma, o complexo Ghon, que é um acúmulo de leucócitos. LTCD4 e IFN-gama, combinadas com TNF-alfa, essas células e citocinas são as principais responsáveis pelo controle do Mtb. Além disso, os cigarros afetam negativamente a produção de citocinas e a expansão clonal do LTH1, prejudicando a entrega de uma resposta imune competente ao Mtb. Conclusão: Portanto, percebeu-se que as substâncias do cigarro exercem influência prejudicial no sistema imunológico, prejudicando o controle da Mtb no granuloma e favorecendo a disseminação da infecção.

Objective: To evaluate radiographic outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive Chevron/Akin osteotomy (MICA) for hallux valgus correction. Methods: We have treated 31 patients (40 feet). Preoperative and postoperative hallux metatarsophalangeal angles (hallux valgus angles, HVA), intermetatarsal angles (IMA) between the first and second metatarsals, and distal metatarsal articular angles (DMAA) were followed up for 12 months. Results: The mean age of the patients was 53.2 years. Mean preoperative HVA, IMA, and DMAA values were 28.85°, 15.38°, and 14.35°, respectively. The mean postoperative angles measured after 1 year were 10.60°, 7.95°, and 7.48°. Improvements in HVA, IMA, and DMAA values showed statistical relevance. There were no losses in angular parameters during follow-up. Conclusion: The radiographic outcomes in patients undergoing MICA osteotomy for hallux valgus correction followed up for 12 months showed significant improvements and no recurrence of the deformity. Our results suggest that this technique is effective for correcting hallux valgus. Level of Evidence III; Therapeutic Studies; Comparative Retrospective Study.

Baru is an exotic fruit grown in different regions of the Brazilian savannah, but its sweet mesocarp is discarded after extraction of the almond the nutritional and antioxidant properties of baru mesocarp (pulp), as harvested in three Brazilian locations (Goias-GO; Federal District-DF and Minas Gerais-MG), and the feasibility of crystalizing the sugar from the mesocarp were investigated. Variations (dry weight basis) in the protein (2.6–9.2%), lipid (1.5–5.1%), fiber (24.1–33%), sugar (38.1–42.3%), total phenolic compounds –TPC (179.4–314.7 mg GAE.100 g−1) and tannin (39.3–75.8 mg CAE.100 g−1) contents were observed. The antioxidant activity as determined by the ABTS method followed the tannin content, and by the DPPH and FRAP methods, followed the TPC content. The mesocarp from MG, subjected to higher temperatures, temperature variations and sunlight, presented more sucrose, glucose and fructose. The mesocarp from DF, presented more antioxidants, tannins, total and soluble fibers, proteins, maltose, lipids and ash, contents associated with a higher altitude and greater rainfall. Finally, the GO mesocarps, with rainfall before ripening, higher temperatures and less sunlight, were associated with higher antioxidant, sucrose and insoluble fiber contents. Granulated sugar was obtained by crystallization from the mesocarp.

Ximenia americana L. is popularly known as a plum or wild plum, which belongs to the Olacaceae family. Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus represents one of the most important bovine ectoparasites that causes damage to the livestock sector. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acaricide effect of the X. americana stem bark hydroethanolic extract (EHXA) against R. (B.) microplus and its possible modulatory action when in association with cypermethrin, through the adult immersion test. The in vitro acaricide activity of the extract over R. (B.) microplus engorged females was tested using concentrations ranging from 5 to 80 mg mL− 1, which resulted in mortalities between 13.34 and 100 %, with a posture index (PI) between 0.038 and 0.226 and a posture inhibition index (PII) between 0.87 and 83.33 %. The modulatory effect of the EHXA (1.58 mg mL− 1) resulted in mortality between 0 and 46.6 %, with a posture index of 0.221 to 0.139 and a posture inhibition index between 3.01 and 38.49 %. The acaricide activity of the EHXA and its action on oviposition was demonstrated for the first time in this study, demonstrating the potential use of this extract as an auxiliary therapy in R. (B.) microplus control.

The females of Mansonia are voraciously hematophagous. The spiracular apparatus of the immature, larval, and pupal forms is adapted to perforate submerged aquatic vegetation, from whose aeriferous aerenchyma they obtain the oxygen necessary for breathing. The proliferation of aquatic plants, in some cases linked to anthropic modifications that reduce water flow and/or increase organic matter content, may therefore contribute to the spread of these mosquitoes. This study aims to assess the presence of immature individuals of Mansonia in different aquatic plants of the Madeira River basin in 10 lentic and lotic environments and correlate their population density with abiotic factors such as water pH, dissolved O2, conductivity, and temperature. The sampling lasted from February 2016 to June 2018, a 29-month period during which 31,287 specimens belonging to the genus Mansonia were captured. Of the 12 species of macrophytes inspected, Eichhornia crassipes made up 70.1% of the samples. Lentic environments accounted for 58.9% of the samples and lotic environments for 41.1%. Immature individuals were most commonly found on Eichhornia crassipes, with this plant accounting for an average of 96.2% of all individuals, with a percentage ranging between 58.2% and 77.1% in different breeding areas. Only at the Foz do Igarapé Jirau site was a different distribution observed, with the number of aquatic plants more nearly equal: 83.3% of the larvae were found in Eichhornia crassipes, 9.2% in Ceratopteris pteridoides, 3.6% in E. azurea, 2.0% in Salvinia sp., and 1.9% in Pistia sp. The greatest richness was found in Iguapé do Raul. Concerning the larval/plant relationship, although less frequent, E. azurea had a higher larval density of Mansonia spp. It is important to emphasize that this finding may indicate a possible selection for this plant. Egg deposition by Mansonia spp. was more abundant in sample areas with Eichhornia crassipes and Pistia sp. The number of specimens collected was positively correlated with temperature, pH, and conductivity. These correlations showed a marked increase in the rainy season. Therefore, we were able to establish preliminary parameters of how environmental changes influence the ecology of this important genus of mosquitoes, the species of which are critical disease vectors.

The present study evaluated the general welfare state of two strains of transgenic goats bred in a region with a hot and humid tropical climate. Nine females were used, being three transgenic for human lysozyme (hLZ group), three transgenic for human glucocerebrosidase (hGCase group), and three non-transgenic (control group). The temperature and humidity index (THI) were recorded during the morning, afternoon, and evening. The physiological parameters measured were respiratory rate, heart rate, and rectal and vaginal temperatures. Venous blood samples were collected using Vacutainer® tubes containing 10% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Also, analysis of erythrogram, leukogram, and some biochemical parameters of serum was performed. It was observed that the afternoon shift presented the largest THI, being potentially more impactful on the physiology of animals. In general, respiratory and heart rates were higher in transgenic animals, especially in the hLZ group compared to the control group (P

— A new species of Clusia (sect. Phloianthera) from the Amazon is described and illustrated. Species belonging to the sect. Phloianthera occur mainly in southeastern Brazil and Clusia nascimentojuniorii is the fourth species of the section found and registered in the Amazon region. We provide here a table with the major differences between Clusia nascimentojuniorii and similar species in sect. Phloianthera, as well as an identification key for species from the Amazon, and a distribution map for the new species.

Aim This study evaluated the inhibitory effects on mycelial growth and damage on membrane integrity and enzymatic activity caused by Conyza bonariensis essential oil (CBEO) on distinct pathogenic Colletotrichum musae isolates, as well as the preventive and curative effects of coatings with gum Arabic (GA) and CBEO to reduce anthracnose development in banana during room temperature storage. The effects of GA-CBEO coatings on some physicochemical parameters of banana were investigated during room temperature storage. Method and results CBEO (0.4-1 μl ml-1 ) inhibited the mycelial growth of C. musae isolates in laboratory media. The exposure of C. musae conidia to CBEO (0.6 μl ml-1 ) for 3 and 5 days resulted in high percentages of conidia with damaged cytoplasmic membrane and without enzymatic activity. Coatings with GA (0.1 mg ml-1 ) and CBEO (0.4-1 μl ml-1 ) reduced the anthracnose development in banana artificially contaminated with C. musae during storage. In most cases, the disease severity indexes found for GA-CBEO-coated banana were lower than or similar to those for banana treated with commercial fungicide. GA-CBEO-coated banana had reduced alterations in physicochemical parameters during storage, indicating more prolonged storability. Conclusion The application of GA-CBEO coatings is effective to delay the anthracnose development in banana during storage, which should help to reduce the amount of fungicides used to control postharvest diseases in this fruit. Significance and impact of the study This is the first study showing the efficacy of coatings formulated with GA and CBEO to delay the development of anthracnose in banana, as well as to decrease alterations in physicochemical parameters indicative of postharvest quality of this fruit during storage. In a practical point of view, GA-CBEO coatings could be innovative strategies to delay the anthracnose development and postharvest losses in banana.

The diversity of endotherms and ectotherms may be differently affected by ambient temperature and net primary productivity (NPP). Additionally, little is known about how these drivers affect the diversity of guilds of different trophic levels. We assessed the relative role of temperature and NPP in multitrophic guilds of ectothermic (arthropods: ants, ground beetles, spiders, and harvestmen) and endothermic (large mammals) animals along a tropical elevational gradient. We sampled arthropods at eight elevation belts and large mammals at 14 elevation belts in Atlantic rainforest (ranging from 600 to 2450 m.a.s.l.) of Itatiaia National Park, Southeast Brazil. Overall arthropod species richness was more associated with temperature than overall large-mammal species richness, while the latter was more associated with NPP. When separated into trophic guilds, we found that the species richness associated with NPP increased across arthropod trophic levels from herbivores to predators. Conversely, although NPP influenced large-mammal herbivore species richness, its effects did not seem to accumulate across large-mammal trophic levels since the species richness of large-mammal omnivores was more associated with temperature and none of the variables we studied influenced large-mammal predators. We suggest that thermal physiological differences between ectotherms and endotherms are responsible for the way in which arthropods and large mammals interact with or are constrained by the environment. Furthermore, the inconsistency regarding the role of temperature and NPP on species richness across multitrophic guilds of ectotherms and endotherms could indicate that thermal physiological differences might also interfere with energy use and flux in the food web.

Randia ferox is a Brazilian native species used in folk medicine. Scientific information regarding the toxicology and phytochemistry of this plant remains unclear. We aimed to produce a R. ferox extract, identify its chemical matrix, and evaluate its safety profile. The extract chemical composition was accessed through UHPLC-MS/MS. Mononuclear cells, erythrocytes, fibroblasts, macrophages, and kidney cells were subjected to extract concentration-response curve testing. The cellular viability, proliferation, dsDNA release, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), hemolysis, and DNA damage were determined. Ten molecules were found in the extract matrix. Most of the tested concentrations can be considered safe. Cellular viability, proliferation, dsDNA release, and NO remained at similar levels to the control. The extract increased ROS in macrophages. None of the tested concentrations induced DNA damage or hemolysis. The data suggest R. ferox extract contains several bioactive molecules and has a safety profile in vitro.

Iron deficiency and hepatic steatosis are common in bariatric surgery patients. Steatosis can falsely elevate ferritin values even in presence of iron deficiency. This study aims to assess the influence of hepatic steatosis on iron deficiency and replacement therapy after bariatric surgery. Seventy-nine individuals undergoing gastric bypass have been studied at 4 time points (preoperative and 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery). Weight, body mass index (BMI), iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, folate, hemoglobin, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and use of iron replacement were recorded. Forty-two individuals (53%) had moderate/severe steatosis assessed by ultrasound. No differences were seen in iron profile and replacement therapy features compared to individuals with no/mild steatosis both in the preoperative and postoperative periods. Mixed model analysis showed ferritin levels to be higher in the moderate/severe steatosis group than in no/mild steatosis at the 6th month (139 ± 131 vs. 60.9 ± 49.8, p

Cancer is considered a multifactorial disease and its development could be associated with several factors, for example, rotenone exposition. Unfortunately, many cancers are resistant to chemothera...

Oxidative stress is known to be involved in development of numerous diseases including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, kidney and cancer. Thus, investigations that mimic oxidative stress in vitro may play an important role to find new strategies to control oxidative stress and subsequent consequences are important. Rotenone, widely used as a pesticide has been used as a model to simulate oxidative stress. However, this chemical was found to produce several diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and cytoprotective effect of avocado (Persea americana Mill) extract and oil in monkey kidney epithelial cells (VERO) exposed to rotenone. VERO cells were exposed to IC50 of rotenone in conjunction with different concentrations of avocado extract and oil (ranging from 1 to 1000 µg/ml), for 24 hr. Subsequently, cell viability and oxidative metabolism were assessed. Data demonstrated that avocado extract and oil in the presence of rotenone increased cellular viability at all tested concentrations compared to cells exposed only to rotenone. In addition, extract and avocado oil exhibited antioxidant action as evidenced by decreased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide ion, and lipid peroxidation, generated by rotenone. Further, avocado extract and oil appeared to be safe, since these compounds did not affect cell viability and or generate oxidative stress. Therefore, avocado appears to display a promising antioxidant potential by decreasing oxidative stress.

Tropical forest biodiversity is being threatened by human activities, and species losses during forest disturbance can compromise important ecosystem functions and services. We assessed how species losses due to tropical forest disturbance affect community functional structure, using Amazonian dung beetles as a model group. We collected empirical data from 106 forest transects and used simulated extinction scenarios to determine how species loss influences community structure at regional and local scales. Although functional and taxonomic community metrics were largely unaffected by primary forest disturbance, they differed markedly between primary and secondary forests. However, our extinction scenarios demonstrated scale-dependence of species losses, whereby functional structure only eroded with species extinction at the local scale. Hence, we extend the spatial insurance hypothesis by demonstrating that landscape-scale functional redundancy offsets the impact of local species losses and confers community-level resistance to primary forest disturbance.

This study was to evaluate the biological activity of the extract of Botryosphaeria fabicerciana isolated from leaves of Morus nigra. The volatile compounds from the crude extract were analysed by GC-MS which demonstrate that mellein and β-orcinaldehyde were are the major compounds. The best minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extract was observed against Gram-positive bacteria, with a MIC of 15.6 μg/mL towards B. cereus and MIC of 62.5 μg/mL towards S. aureus and B. subtilis. MBC values of 31.25 μg/mL, 62.5 μg/mL, and 250 μg/mL were observed towards B. cereus, B. subtilis, and S. aureus, respectively. The cytotoxicity analyses showed CC50 of 115 μg/mL. The crude extract showed antioxidant activity by the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Therefore, the extract of the endophytic fungus presented biotechnological potential as an antibacterial and antioxidant agent.

The present study analyzed the chemical composition and evaluated the in vitro cytotoxicity of essential oil extracted from Lippia origanoides on human gingival fibroblasts. The essential oil was o...

Lutzomyia umbratilis is the main vector of Leishmania guyanensis in the Brazilian Amazon and in neighboring countries. Previous biological and molecular investigations have revealed significant differences between L. umbratilis populations from the central Brazilian Amazon region. Here, a phylogeographic survey of L. umbratilis populations collected from nine localities in the Brazilian Amazon was conducted using two mitochondrial genes. Statistical analyses focused on population genetics, phylogenetic relationships and species delimitations. COI genetic diversity was very high, whereas Cytb diversity was moderate. COI genealogical haplotypes, population structure and phylogenetic analyses identified a deep genetic differentiation and three main genetic groups. Cytb showed a shallower genetic structure, two main haplogroups and poorly resolved phylogenetic trees. These findings, allied to absence of isolation by distance, support the hypothesis that the Amazon and Negro Rivers and interfluves are the main evolutionary forces driving L. umbratilis diversification. The main three genetic groups observed represent three evolutionary lineages, possibly species. The first lineage occurs north of the Amazon River and east of Negro River, where Le. guyanensis transmission is intense, implying that L. umbratilis is an important vector there. The second lineage is in the interfluve between north of Amazon River and west of Negro River, an area reported to be free of Le. guyanensis transmission. The third lineage, first recorded in this study, is in the interfluve between south of Amazon River and west of Madeira River, and its involvement in the transmission of this parasite remains to be elucidated.

This study aimed to characterize ozone gas (O3) decomposition kinetics when injected at low pressure for controlling Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), and its effect on po...

The Momordica charantia is a vegetable crop used worldwide due to its biological activities. Investigations into the pharmacological activities of the M. charantia revealed that it presented a wide range of properties, including antimicrobial, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity. Over the years, the M. charantia compounds have been identified and studied. In this study, we highlighted the Kuguacin, a triterpenoid isolated from any M. charantia parts. Thus, we aimed to synthesize the scientific knowledge about the Kuguacin biological activities and identify gaps in this area. We performed a scoping review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) to design the study’s protocol, with search in PUBMED, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Science Direct, and SciFinder databases. Most of the studies used in vitro methods, and the Kuguacin were isolated from leaves, vines, fruits, and roots. Studies reported the anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-influenza, anti-HIV, and anti-tuberculosis activities of the Kuguacin.

A disfunção craniocervicomandibular envolve um conjunto de estruturas, incluindo a articulação temporomandibular, músculos da mastigação e do pescoço. As alterações vestibulococleares estão intimamente ligadas às disfunções musculares cervicais e mastigatórias por conta das proximidades anatômicas e sua fisiologia. Além delas, nesses casos também há presença de dores referidas (faciais, otalgias, cefaleias, periorbitais, etc), ruídos articulares, alterações da dinâmica mandibular, desvios, deflexões e restrição dos movimentos. Este trabalho apresentará um caso em paciente de 39 anos de idade, sexo feminino, com queixa de dores de cabeça, orelha, por trás dos olhos, zumbidos, estalidos articulares, deslocamento mandibular além de tontura/vertigem. Realizados anamnese, exames físicos e complementares, o diagnóstico foi de disfunção craniocervicomandibular com sintomatologia vestibulococlear, seguido do tratamento proposto, o qual consistiu em exercícios de fisioterapia e uso de dispositivo interoclusal, apresentando efetividade, com resolução do quadro doloroso, otológico e vestibular.

Combretaceae are reported in the literature for presenting neuroprotective and anxiolytic effects in animal models. Combretum lanceolatum Pohl. has few scientific reports on its pharmacological eff...

The present study was carried out with the objective of evaluating the ecological and applied aspects of temperature in the germination of Colubrina glandulosa (Rhamnaceae), Chloroleucon dumosum (Fabaceae), Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Fabaceae), Mimosa bimucronata (Fabaceae) and Sapindus saponaria (Sapindaceae). Then we assessed germination, average germination time, germination uniformity and germination activation energy as a function of temperatures. The experiment was conducted at the Plant Propagation Laboratory, on the Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Campus, at the Federal University of Alagoas, Rio Largo, AL, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized with four replications of 25 seeds per treatment. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and the means were compared using the Tukey test at 5% probability. The isothermal incubation was performed in Biochemical Oxigen Demand (B.O.D.) germination chamber, at constant temperatures of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 ºC and alternating at 20-30 ºC. The seeds of C. glandulosa, C. dumosum, E. contortisiliquum and M. bimucronata germinated in the range of 10 ºC ≤ T ≤ 35 ºC, and S. saponaria germinated in the range of 20 ºC ≤ T ≤ 35 ºC. We found that seeds in the optimal temperature range has unimodal distribution of relative frequency, concentrating germination in the shortest time. The activation energy was positive in the range of 10 ºC ≤ T ≤ 30 ºC, with an inversion of the signal at a temperature of 35 ºC. The studied species had a wide range of temperature tolerance and the speed was curvilinearly dependent on them. The germination process is predominantly endergonic

For most forest species the irregularity of fruiting, low seed production and spatial distribution of trees, make it impossible to supply seeds to meet seedling production programs. On the other hand, to prevent subsequent years of low production and maintain seed viability, it is necessary to adopt adequate storage procedures. Therefore, the objectives of the study were to evaluate the influence of water content and storage conditions on the physiological potential of seeds of Colubrina glandulosa Perkins (Rhamnaceae), Chloroleucon dumosum (Benth.) G.P. Lewis (Fabaceae), Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong (Fabaceae), Mimosa bimucronata (DC.) O. Kuntze (Fabaceae) and Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindaceae), which are native tree species in tropical forests in South America. The seeds were placed in paper packaging and glass packaging and stored in a laboratory environment (uncontrolled), during storage periods of zero (recently harvested), three, six, nine, 12 and 15 months. For each storage period, the water content and physiological potential of the seeds were evaluated. The design was entirely randomized with four repetitions of 25 seeds. The germination (G) and germination uniformity (U) data were subjected to analysis of variance in a 2 x 6 factorial arrangement (two types of packaging x six storage periods), and application of polynomial regression. Seeds of Colubrina glandulosa, Chloroleucon dumosum, Enterolobium contortisiliquum, Mimosa bimucronata and Sapindus saponaria, packed in paper packaging or glass packaging, and stored under uncontrolled conditions of natural environment, presented higher G and U, in the storage period of 15 months. The physiological potential of the seeds can be maintained for a long time, as long as they are packed in a glass container with an adequate initial water content. With a water content of 8.2, 8.1, 7.9, 8.4% and 12.1%, the seeds of Colubrina glandulosa, Chloroleucon dumosum, Enterolobium contortisiliquum, Mimosa bimucronata and Sapindus saponaria, respectively, maintain the viability during storage. Therefore, the solution to store these seeds would be to rigorously dry them, and then use waterproof packaging. It is recommended that for the storage of seeds of these tree species, they are previously packaged in glass containers

The Serra da Bodoquena includes the headwaters of important rivers of the upper Paraguay River basin and constitutes one of the more extensive karst formations in Brazil. The region is an important tourist destination and Serra da Bodoquena National Park (SBNP) was established in 2000. In this work, we provide a list of the ichthyofauna and describe the main water systems in SBNP. Surveys were carried out in August, September and December 2005 using trawl nets, gill nets and electrofishing. For the list of species, we included records made in subsequent studies, resulting in 60 species belonging to seven orders and 21 families, which are all autochthonous to the upper Paraguay River, except the tilapia Coptodon rendalli, the only non-native species. The species richness was higher in the Salobra River basin (49 species, 39 exclusive) compared to the Perdido River basin (15 species, six exclusive). We documented seven endemic species in the Serra da Bodoquena, of which two are threatened with extinction (Vulnerable category): Trichomycterus dali and Ancistrus formoso. As mitigation and preventive measures for environmental impacts, we suggest regularizing land use and increasing environmental education programs as ways of contributing to public policies that are involved in the conservation of aquatic systems and their biotic communities.

Introduction: The assessment of body composition in female athletes of different sports is important for health monitoring. Objective: To compare body composition in university athletes of different team sports (indoor soccer, flag football and volleyball). Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out with 45 female athletes, aged 18 to 35 years (22.8 ± 3.55). The dependent variables were body fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) measured by air displacement plethysmography. Bone mineral content, adjusted for height (BMC/height) and bone mineral density (BMD), were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. The independent variable was sport [flag football (n = 12); indoor soccer (n = 20); volleyball (n = 13)] and the covariates were age (complete years), training volume (minutes per week) and length of time playing the sport (complete years). Analysis of covariance was used. Results: Adjusting the model for covariates, volleyball athletes (19.27 kg ± 2.20) presented higher FM values compared to the flag football (16.00 kg ± 1.70) and indoor soccer players (12.20 kg ± 1.30). There was no significant difference in FFM, BMC/height and total BMD between sports, even after adjusting for covariates. Conclusion: Volleyball athletes presented higher FM compared to flag football and indoor soccer athletes. There were no differences in FFM, BMC/height and BMD among the players of the different team sports. This study can help coaches and other sports professionals to prevent injuries to athletes in sports such as higher FM (volleyball), or to prevent diseases such as menstrual irregularities, which are common in athletes who may have low levels of body fat (indoor soccer players), this being one of the risk factors for the female athlete triad (eating disorders, menstrual irregularities and low BMD). Level of evidence III; Retrospective comparative study . RESUMEN Introducción: La evaluación de la composición corporal en atletas del sexo femenino de diferentes modalidades deportivas es importante para la monitorización de la salud. Objetivos: Comparar la composición corporal de atletas universitarias, de diferentes modalidades colectivas (fútbol de salón, flag football y vóleibol). Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado con 45 atletas del sexo femenino, con edades entre 18 y 35 años (22,8 ± 3,55). Las variables dependientes fueron la masa grasa (MG) y masa magra (MM) medida por pletismografía por desplazamiento de aire. El contenido mineral óseo ajustado para estatura (CMO/estatura) y densidad mineral ósea (DMO) fueron medidos por absorciometría por doble emisión de rayos X. Las variables independientes fueron los deportes [flag football (n = 12); fútbol de salón (n = 20); vóleibol (n = 13)] y las covariables fueron edad (años completos), volumen de entrenamiento (minutos por semana) y tiempo de práctica (años completos). Fue utilizado el análisis de covariancia. Resultados: Al ajustar el modelo por las covariables, las atletas de vóleibol (19,27 kg ± 2,20) presentaron valores mayores de MG con relación a las de flag football (16,00 kg ± 1,70) y de fútbol de salón (12,20 kg ± 1,30). No hubo diferencia significativa en la MM, CMO/estatura y DMO total entre los deportes, incluso después del ajuste para las covariables. Conclusiones: Las atletas de vóleibol presentaron mayor MG en comparación con los atletas de flag football y fútbol de salón. No hubo diferencias en MM, CMO/estatura y DMO entre las jugadoras de diferentes modalidades colectivas. Este estudio puede ayudar a entrenadores y otros profesionales del deporte a prevenir lesiones en atletas con mayor MG (vóleibol) o prevenir enfermedades como irregularidades menstruales, comunes en atletas con bajos niveles de grasa corporal (fútbol de salón), que es uno de los factores de riesgo para el síndrome de la tríada de la atleta femenina (disturbios alimentarios, irregularidades menstruales y baja DMO). Nivel de evidencia III; Estudio retrospectivo comparativo . RESUMO Introdução: A avaliação da composição corporal em atletas do sexo feminino de diferentes modalidades esportivas é importante para o monitoramento da saúde. Objetivos: Comparar a composição corporal de atletas universitárias, de diferentes modalidades coletivas (futebol de salão, flag football e voleibol). Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado com 45 atletas do sexo feminino, com idades entre 18 e 35 anos (22,8 ± 3,55). As variáveis dependentes foram a massa gorda corporal (MG) e a massa magra (MM) medida por pletismografia por deslocamento de ar. O conteúdo mineral ósseo ajustado para estatura (CMO/estatura) e densidade mineral óssea (DMO) foram medidos por absorciometria por dupla emissão de raios X. As variáveis independentes foram os esportes [flag football (n = 12); futebol de salão (n = 20); voleibol (n = 13)] e as covariáveis foram idade (anos completos), volume de treinamento (minutos por semana) e tempo de prática (anos completos). A análise de covariância foi utilizada. Resultados: Ao ajustar o modelo pelas covariáveis, as atletas de voleibol (19,27 kg ± 2,20) apresentaram valores maiores de MG com relação às de flag football (16,00 kg ± 1,70) e de futebol de salão (12,20 kg ± 1,30). Não houve diferença significativa na MM, CMO/estatura e DMO total entre os esportes, mesmo depois do ajuste para as covariáveis. Conclusões: As atletas de voleibol apresentaram maior MG em comparação com as atletas de flag football e futebol de salão. Não houve diferenças em MM, CMO/estatura e DMO entre os jogadoras de diferentes modalidades coletivas. Este estudo pode ajudar treinadores e outros profissionais do esporte a prevenir lesões em atletas com maior MG (voleibol) ou prevenir doenças como irregularidades menstruais, comuns em atletas com baixos níveis de gordura corporal (futebol de salão), que é um dos fatores de risco para a síndrome da tríade da atleta feminina (distúrbios alimentares, irregularidades menstruais e baixa DMO). Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

This study aimed to assess the phytosociology of weeds as a function of different crop management technology levels in cassava production. Field experiments were conducted in Santa Maria (29°41′03″ S; 53°48′25″ W) and Itaqui (lat. 29°07′31″ S; long. 56°33′11″ W), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Treatments consisted of three technology levels: low (postemergence weeding without basal dressing); medium (weeding performed at 7 and 40 days after planting and fertilization with 6.25, 25, and 25 kg⋅ha−1 of N, P, and K, respectively); and high (postemergence application of s-metolachlor; 1250 kg⋅ha−1 of lime and 12.5, 50, and 50 kg⋅ha−1 of N, P, and K, respectively). Weed frequency, density, relative abundance, and importance values were calculated for each location. Then, locations were compared using a dissimilarity matrix. Weed density and diversity decreased linearly as technology levels increased. The predominant weed species found in Itaqui and Santa Maria belong to the Poaceae family. Itaqui presented highest weed diversity among the locations. The genus Cyperus had the highest importance value index in Santa Maria. The use of S-metolachlor at the high technology level provided a lower frequency and lower diversity of weed species than did levels without chemical control in Itaqui and Santa Maria.

High case counts after the Gamma (P. 1) variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 emerged in Brazil raised concerns that previously infected persons might become reinfected. Investigation of a cluster of coronavirus disease cases in Parintins, in the Brazilian Amazon, suggested household transmission but did not identify high rates of reinfection.

The discovery of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors is a hot topic in the medicinal chemistry community regarding cancer research. This is related primarily to two factors: success in the clinic, e. g., the four FDA-approved HDAC inhibitors, and strong versatility to combine their pharmacophoric features to design new hybrid compounds with multitarget profiles. Thus, the selection of adequate pharmacophores to combine, i. e., combining targets that can result in a synergistic effect, is desirable, as it increases the probability of discovering a new useful therapeutic strategy. In this work, we highlight the design of multitarget HDAC/PI3K inhibitors. Although this approach is still in its early stages, many significant works have described the design and pharmacological evaluation of this new promising class of multitarget inhibitors, where compound CUDC-907, which is already in clinical trials, stands out. Therefore, the question emerges of whether there still space for the design and evaluation of new multitarget HDAC/PI3K inhibitors. When considering the selectivity profile of the described multitarget compounds, the answer appears to be in the affirmative, especially since the first examples of compounds with a certain selectivity profile only recently appeared in 2020.

Our objective was to measure chemical composition and anatomy of 5 Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum) genotypes, when grown in combination with eucalypts in a silvopastoral system. Cultivars Massai, Mombaça, BRS Tamani, Tanzânia and intraspecific hybrid accession PM44 were evaluated in full sun and a silvopastoral system at 5 different distances from eucalyptus tree rows. The experimental design was a randomized block in split plot with 2 replications. Plots corresponded with genotypes and subplots with sampling points within the system. Total forage and leaf biomass as well as nutritive value und tissue proportions were evaluated. Our results showed a decrease in biomass as radiation incidence decreased. Forage biomass was greatest in BRS Tamani and Mombaça and lowest in PM44. There was a significant interaction between sampling points and genotype for nutritive value variables, such as crude protein, in vitro digestibility of organic matter, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin-S, while tissue proportions were not affected by the interaction between sampling points and genotypes. Genotype had more pronounced effects on chemical composition and anatomical characteristics than did sampling points. The leaves of Mombaça were the longest and had greatest total cross-sectional area, and this genotype showed greater proportions of sclerenchyma and vascular tissues than other cultivars and the lowest proportion of mesophyll. The greatest proportion of parenchyma bundle sheaths was also found in Mombaça leaves. Genotypes PM44 and Tanzânia had the lowest proportions of sclerenchyma, and PM44 and BRS Tamani had the lowest proportions of vascular tissues. On the other hand, PM44 and Tanzânia had the greatest proportions of mesophyll. BRS Tamani was comparable with the most used cultivars, Mombaça and Tanzânia, and had forage quality slightly superior to that of Mombaça. Tropical grasses growing under shade can potentially produce less forage but with better nutritive value, in terms of chemical composition and tissue proportions, than grasses grown under full sun. However, as the degree of shading in silvopastoral systems does not occur uniformly across the whole area, the improved nutritive value would not be uniform and may not be very prominent overall.