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Background: The determination of amino acid supplements for broiler chicken requirements based on performance does not always reflect maximum profitability. Objective: To estimate the optimal levels of digestible threonine (Thr) and sulfur amino acids (SAA) in diets for broilers based on an economic analysis. Methods: Two dose-response assays were conducted, and each assay was divided into three phases: initial (1-14 days), grower (15-28 days), and finisher (29-42 days). Five hundred and sixty male Cobb 500® broilers were randomly distributed to seven treatments with increasing levels of the amino acid (SAA or Thr), with four replicates and 20 birds each. Bodyweight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) were used to fit a segmented model. Gross income (GI), total feed costs (TFC) and gross margin (GM) were calculated based on local values. Results: Increasing levels of amino acid elicited a response in BWG and FI for all evaluated phases. The estimates for maximum profit based on GI and TFC were 223, 504, and 975 mg SAA/bird/d, and 236, 696, and 1,042 mg Thr/bird/d in starter, grower and finisher phases, respectively. Conclusion: Varying the AA prices affected only slightly the economic optimal intake of Thr and sulfur amino acids. Despite market fluctuations, the economic approach presented in this study demonstrates to be a helpful tool to choose the ideal inclusion level of amino acids in the feed.

O adenoma pleomórfico é a neoplasia mais comum das glândulas salivares maiores e menores; entretanto, sua variante metastática é rara. Assim, o objetivo desse trabalho é relatar um caso dessa entidade. Paciente feminina de 42 anos realizou uma ressecção transoral de adenocarcinoma de glândulas salivares menores em mucosa jugal esquerda em 2008. Após 8 anos, apresentou recidiva tumoral e metástase para linfonodos submandibulares, sendo esta identificada como adenoma pleomórfico. Paciente foi submetida a ressecção da lesão, com maxilectomia e esvaziamento radical modificado, com reconstrução a partir de retalho do músculo masseter. Paciente foi encaminhada para radioterapia adjuvante e está livre de doença há 1 ano. A metástase dos adenomas pleomórficos se manifestam anos após o tumor primário. O mecanismo fisiopatológico da disseminação é incerto e marcadores tumorais de maior agressividade para esses adenomas estão sendo estudados. Reafirma-se, portanto, a necessidade de excisão completa e tecnicamente perfeita da neoplasia primária.

Summary: Vorapaxar reduces thrombotic cardiovascular events at the expense of increased bleeding. However, the differential pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of vorapaxar according to diabetes mellitus (DM) status are unknown. Moreover, although withdrawal of aspirin has emerged as a bleeding reduction strategy, the PD effects of stopping aspirin in patients treated with vorapaxar also are unknown. In this prospective PD investigation, vorapaxar was associated with reduced platelet-mediated thrombogenicity without affecting clot kinetics irrespective of DM status. However, platelet-mediated thrombogenicity increased after aspirin withdrawal, particularly among patients with DM. (Optimizing anti-Platelet Therapy In diabetes MellitUS-5 Study [OPTIMUS-5]; NCT02548650) Key Words: dual antiplatelet therapy, pharmacodynamics, platelets, thrombin, vorapaxar

Resumo: Neste artigo, procuramos inventariar o perfil e o posicionamento público dos jovens participantes de eventos religiosos de massa, ocorridos na cidade do Rio de Janeiro entre os anos de 2013 e 2016. Mais especificamente, trata-se de tornar público e aprofundar as análises de um conjunto de dados auferidos pelo projeto “As novas configurações da religião no século XXI”. Para os objetivos que perseguimos neste artigo, focaremos nossas atenções no conjunto de dados que permitem traçar o perfil sociodemográfico dos participantes, bem como os que revelam a sua opinião a respeito de temas controversos. Neste sentido, pretendemos compreender o contraste entre a opinião pública de grupos religiosos ligados às igrejas pentecostais e a de grupos ligados a outras denominações religiosas.

ABSTRACT: Ever since its emergence, the highly transmissible and debilitating coronavirus disease spread at an incredibly fast rate, causing global devastation in a matter of months. SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus responsible for COVID-19, infects hosts after binding to ACE2 receptors present on cells from many structures pertaining to the respiratory, cardiac, hematological, neurological, renal and gastrointestinal systems. COVID-19, however, appears to trigger a severe cytokine storm syndrome in pulmonary structures, resulting in oxidative stress, exacerbated inflammation and alveolar injury. Due to the recent nature of this disease no treatments have shown complete efficacy and safety. More recently, however, researchers have begun to direct some attention towards GSH and NAC. These natural antioxidants play an essential role in several biological processes in the body, especially the maintenance of the redox equilibrium. In fact, many diseases appear to be strongly related to severe oxidative stress and deficiency of endogenous GSH. The high ratios of ROS over GSH, in particular, appear to reflect severity of symptoms and prolonged hospitalization of COVID-19 patients. This imbalance interferes with the body's ability to detoxify the cellular microenvironment, fold proteins, replenish antioxidant levels, maintain healthy immune responses and even modulate apoptotic events. Oral administration of GSH and NAC is convenient and safe, but they are susceptible to degradation in the digestive tract. Considering this drawback, nebulization of GSH and NAC as an adjuvant therapy may therefore be a viable alternative for the management of the early stages of COVID-19.

ABSTRACT The routes of uptake and efflux should be considered when developing new drugs so that they can effectively address their intracellular targets. As a general rule, drugs appear to enter cells via protein carriers that normally carry nutrients or metabolites. A previously developed pipeline that searched for drug transporters using Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutants carrying single-gene deletions identified import routes for most compounds tested. However, due to the redundancy of transporter functions, we propose that this methodology can be improved by utilizing double mutant strains in both low- and high-throughput screens. We constructed a library of over 14,000 strains harboring double deletions of genes encoding 122 nonessential plasma membrane transporters and performed low- and high-throughput screens identifying possible drug import routes for 23 compounds. In addition, the high-throughput assay enabled the identification of putative efflux routes for 21 compounds. Focusing on azole antifungals, we were able to identify the involvement of the myo-inositol transporter, Itr1p, in the uptake of these molecules and to confirm the role of Pdr5p in their export. IMPORTANCE Our library of double transporter deletion strains is a powerful tool for rapid identification of potential drug import and export routes, which can aid in determining the chemical groups necessary for transport via specific carriers. This information may be translated into a better design of drugs for optimal absorption by target tissues and the development of drugs whose utility is less likely to be compromised by the selection of resistant mutants.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a motivação de alunos do ensino fundamental e médio para as aulas de Educação Física em uma escola pública de Maringá - PR. MÉTODOS: A pesquisa caracteriza-se como descritiva de cunho quantitativo e qualitativo do tipo transversal. Participaram 162 estudantes de ambos os sexos, sendo 81 do 9º ano do ensino fundamental e 81 do 3º ano do ensino médio, média de idade 15,40±2,06 anos. Os instrumentos foram a Escala de Necessidades Psicológicas Básicas e perguntas abertas sobre os aspectos que motivam e desmotivam os alunos para as aulas de Educação Física. Foram realizadas análises pelo teste U de Mann-Whitney (p0,05) nas dimensões das necessidades psicológicas básicas em função das turmas de 9º e 3º ano. A comparação em função do sexo dos alunos do 9º ano apontou valores mais elevados (p=0,033) para o sexo masculino na dimensão de competência (Md=3,75). Os alunos do sexo masculino do 3º ano também apresentaram valores superiores (p

Urban areas in the Brazilian Amazon have grown at an unprecedented rate during the last years. About 90% of the wastewater produced by these urban areas are discharged untreated into Amazonian freshwater ecosystems, constituting a potential environmental pathway for pharmaceuticals and other chemicals consumed by modern societies (e.g. psychostimulants, personal-care products, hormones). The distribution of these chemicals into the Amazon River and their potential risks for freshwater biodiversity have not been evaluated so far. Here, we show the results of the largest chemical monitoring campaign conducted in the Amazon region. We assessed exposure patterns for 43 pharmaceuticals and other urban contaminants in 40 sampling sites distributed along the Amazon River, three major tributaries (Negro, Tapajós and Tocantins Rivers), and four large cities of the Brazilian Amazon (Manaus, Santarém, Macapá, Belém). We assessed risks for freshwater biodiversity using species sensitivity distributions and mixture toxicity approaches. We found that urban areas constitute important hot-spots for chemical contamination, with mixtures containing up to 40 different compounds and exposure concentrations reaching the world’s maxima for some of them. We show that chemical pollution can result in long-term effects for up to 50–80% of aquatic species next to urban areas. Moreover, we identified several ubiquitous compounds which can be used as tracers of anthropogenic pressure in the Amazon basin. We conclude that the chemical burden created by urbanization significantly contributes to a biodiversity loss in the region and should be further controlled.

ABSTRACT Notifications concerning American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) are increasing in the northern areas of Brazil, particularly due to the ongoing increase in human settlements inside the Amazon Forest. Notwithstanding the economical and sanitary importance of the ATL, the ecological aspects of its potential vectors, the Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae), remains largely neglected. This study aimed to investigate the diversity of the phlebotomine fauna as well as the detection of Leishmania DNA in these insects in the rural settlement Perimetral Norte, in the state of Amapá, eastern region of the Amazon, endemic region for tegumentary leishmaniasis. Sand flies were collected bimonthly from February 2018 to February 2019, using CDC light traps exposed for three consecutive nights in 10 houses of settlement residents. DNA extraction and multiplex PCR were performed to detect trypanosomatids. A total of 3,946 sandflies belonging to 37 species were collected. The most abundant species were Ty. trichopyga (Floch & Abonnenc, 1945) (21.9%) and Mi. rorotaensis (Floch & Abonnenc, 1944) (16.9%). A total of 36 positive pools were found with Leishmania DNA (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae), representing 17.9% of the total pools tested (201), those with the highest Minimum infection rates were Mg. migonei (França, 1920) and Lu. gomezi (Nitzulescu, 1931), Leishmania DNA was also detected in Bi. flaviscutellata (Mangabeira, 1942), Ny. umbratilis (Ward & Fraiha, 1977), Ny. anduzei (Roseboom, 1942) and Ny. antunesi (Coutinho, 1939). These data confirm the probable participation of these four species in the tegumentary leishmaniasis cycle in the eastern Amazon.

Sclareol (SC) is arousing great interest due to its cytostatic and cytotoxic activities in several cancer cell lines. However, its hydrophobicity is a limiting factor for its in vivo administration. One way to solve this problem is through nanoencapsulation. Therefore, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN-SC) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC-SC) loaded with SC were produced and compared regarding their physicochemical properties. NLC-SC showed better SC encapsulation than SLN-SC and was chosen to be compared with free SC in human cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and HCT-116). Free SC had slightly higher cytotoxicity than NLC-SC and produced subdiploid DNA content in both cell lines. On the other hand, NLC-SC led to subdiploid content in MDA-MB-231 cells and G2/M checkpoint arrest in HCT-116 cells. These findings suggest that SC encapsulation in NLC is a way to allow the in vivo administration of SC and might alter its biological properties

Several musculoskeletal conditions are triggered by inflammatory processes that occur along with imbalances between anabolic and catabolic events. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous product derived from peripheral blood with inherent immunomodulatory and anabolic properties. The clinical efficacy of PRP has been evaluated in several musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis, tendinopathy, and osteonecrosis. When used in combination with hyaluronic acid (HA), a common treatment alternative, the regenerative properties of PRP are significantly enhanced and may provide additional benefits in terms of clinical outcomes. Recently, a new PRP-derived product has been reported in the literature and is being referred to as “plasma gel”. Plasma gels are obtained by polymerizing plasmatic proteins, which form solid thermal aggregates cross-linked with fibrin networks. Plasma gels are considered to be a rich source of growth factors and provide chemotactic, migratory, and proliferative properties. Additionally, clot formation and the associated fibrinolytic reactions play an additional role in tissue repair. There are only a few scientific articles focusing on plasma gels. Historically, they have been utilized in the fields of aesthetics and dentistry. Given that the combination of three products (PRP, HA, and plasma gel) could enhance tissue repair and wound healing, in this technical note, we propose a novel regenerative approach, named “PRP–HA cellular gel matrix” (PRP-GM), in which leukocyte-rich PRP (LR-PRP) is mixed with a plasma gel (obtained by heating the plasma up) and HA in one syringe using a three-way stopcock. The final product contains a fibrin–albumin network entangled with HA’s polymers, in which the cells and biomolecules derived from PRP are attached and released gradually as fibrinolytic reactions and hyaluronic acid degradation occur. The presence of leukocytes, especially monocytes and macrophages, promotes tissue regeneration, as type 2 macrophages (M2) possess an anti-inflammatory feature. In addition, HA promotes the viscosuplementation of the joint and induces an anti-inflammatory response, resulting in pain relief. This unique combination of biological molecules may contribute to the optimization of regenerative protocols suitable for the treatment of degenerative musculoskeletal diseases.

O’Donoghue’s triad is an extremely debilitating condition. Although there are many conventional treatments available, there is still no consensus regarding the most effective rehabilitation protocol for a full recovery. Surgical interventions have become an ordinary consideration, but problems may still persist even after the surgical procedure. Orthobiologics, however, have gained considerable popularity in regenerative medicine. Notable autologous alternatives, such as bone marrow aspirate (BMA), are often utilized in clinical settings. To our knowledge, the administration of BMA products for the management of O’Donoghue’s triad has not been thoroughly investigated in the literature. In this case report we describe a full recovery from O’Donoghue’s triad with BMA matrix in a patient who was recalcitrant to surgical intervention due to fear of complications. Our patient received three BMA matrix injections with four-week intervals, exhibiting significant recovery according to pain scores, functional assessment outcomes, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results. The patient returned to normal activities with no complaints and MRI evidence at follow-up showed significant signs of structural restoration of the musculoskeletal tissues. Here, we demonstrate that autologous BMA products are a feasible alternative for the accelerated recovery of musculoskeletal tissue injury with safety and efficacy.

Estimates are that land area occupied by grass pasture far exceeds that of other crops; at least half are at some stage of degradation. The use of elite plant-growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) as inoculants represents an important strategy to achieve qualitative and quantitative improvements in forage biomass, increasing the productivity and sustainability of livestock production. Several studies have reported the benefits of PGPM in grass pastures, with an emphasis on bacteria of the genera Azospirillum, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, rhizobia, and on arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF). The main grasses studied are Urocholoa (syn. Brachiaria), Megathyrsus (syn. Panicum), Paspalum, Cynodon, and Agropyron. Several microbial processes associated with improvements in root and shoot growth, nutrient content in biomass, and other benefits have been described. Promotion of plant growth has been associated with the synthesis of phytohormones and enzymes regulating several steps of plant development, nutrient mineralization by release of microbial molecules, biological nitrogen fixation, nutrient uptake facilitation by means of molecules such as exopolysaccharides, amongst others. Outstanding benefits of increased root growth, resulting in higher uptake of water and nutrients, either by phytohormones released by bacteria or by expanding root surface by AMF, have been reported. Biocontrol is another important property of PGPM, by a variety of mechanisms, including the synthesis of antimicrobial molecules, lytic enzymes, siderophores, and the release of specific inhibitory compounds such as hydrogen cyanide. Although improvements in forage management can enhance microbial performance, as shown for AMF, in general, inoculation with elite strains positively impacts growth parameters. Globally, the use of microbial inoculants has significantly increased in the past few years, but their application is still modest on grass pastures, which are generally degraded and would need special use of microbial inoculants for reclamation. Efforts towards increasing the use of PGPM in pastures can have deep positive environmental, economic, and social impacts worldwide.

Cancer and cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death and morbidity worldwide. Strikingly, cardiovascular disorders are more common and more severe in cancer patients than in the general population, increasing incidence rates. In this context, it is vital to consider the anticancer efficacy of a treatment and the devastating heart complications it could potentially cause. Oncocardiology has emerged as a promising medical and scientific field addressing these aspects from different angles. Interestingly, nanomedicine appears to have great promise in reducing the cardiotoxicity of anticancer drugs, maintaining or even enhancing their efficacy. Several studies have shown the benefits of nanocarriers, although with some flaws when considering the concept of oncocardiology. Herein, we discuss how preclinical studies should be designed as closely as possible to clinical protocols, considering various parameters intrinsic to the animal models used and the experimental protocols. The sex and age of the animals, the size and location of the tumors, the doses of the nanoformulations administered, and the acute vs. the long-term effects of treatments are essential aspects. We also discuss the perspectives offered by non-invasive imaging techniques to simultaneously assess both the anticancer effects of treatment and its potential impact on the heart. The overall objective is to accelerate the development and validation of nanoformulations through high-quality preclinical studies reproducing the clinical conditions.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar a associação das condições climático-ambientais e a ocorrência das doenças e agravos de notificação compulsória no estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Métodos: Estudo ecológico dos agregados municipais calculados a partir de casos confirmados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan) para o período 2011-2015. Resultados: As notificações foram mais frequentes no sexo feminino (51,1%), raça/cor da pele parda (31,7%), faixa etária de 20-49 anos (48,1%) e região metropolitana de saúde (60,3%). Os fatores associados aos agravos foram as condições sensíveis à Atenção Básica (p-valor

Urbanization is a major cause of biotic homogenization, once it modifies species habitat and creates new environments in which only a few species are able to survive. However, many authors propose that planned green areas within the bounds of urban centers work real islands, providing shelter for several animal species. In this study, we verified the reproductive pattern of a community of birds within an urban green area in southeastern Brazil. Also, we compared the composition of breeding sites and reproductive activities of birds in different environments available and provided insights about how homogenization process affects birds in the study site. We recorded 359 reproductive sites of 36 species. Our data represents 48% of bird species recorded by previous reports at this study site. Out of the total reproductive records, 68.5% were found in wooded areas, even though this land cover class represents only 26.8% of the analyzed landscape. The proportion and the uniqueness of species at this study site show its importance to maintenance of the local diversity of birds. Our results indicate that a local bird diversity homogenization is in process and they provide subsidies for better management practices of green areas within urban centers.

Chalcones are valuable structures for drug discovery due to their broad bioactivity spectrum. In this study, we evaluated 20 synthetic chalcones against estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer cells (MCF-7 line) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells (MDA-MB-231 line). Antiproliferative screening by MTT assay resulted in two most active compounds: 2-fluoro-4’-aminochalcone (11) and 3-pyridyl-4’-aminochalcone (17). Their IC50 values ranged from 13.2 to 34.7 µM against both cell lines. Selected chalcones are weak basic compounds and maintained their antiproliferative activity under acidosis conditions (pH 6.7), indicating their resistance to ion-trapping effect. The mode of breast cancer cells death was investigated and chalcones 11 and 17 were able to induce apoptosis rather than necrosis in both lines. Antiproliferative target investigations with MCF-7 cells suggested 11 and 17 upregulated p53 protein expression and did not affect Sp1 protein expression. Future studies on chalcones 11 and 17 can define their in vivo therapeutic potential.

This study investigates the role of Sygen® in diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a severe disease that affects the peripheral nervous system in diabetic individuals. This disorder often impacts the lower limbs, causing significant discomfort and, if left untreated, progresses into more serious conditions involving chronic ulcers and even amputation in many cases. Although there are management strategies available, peripheral neuropathies are difficult to treat as they often present multiple causes, especially due to metabolic dysfunction in diabetic individuals. Gangliosides, however, have long been studied and appreciated for their role in neurological diseases. The monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1) ganglioside, popularly known as Sygen, provides beneficial effects such as enhanced neuritic sprouting, neurotrophism, neuroprotection, anti-apoptosis, and anti-excitotoxic activity, being particularly useful in the treatment of neurological complications that arise from diabetes. This product mimics the roles displayed by neurotrophins, improving neuronal function and immunomodulation by attenuating exacerbated inflammation in neurons. Furthermore, Sygen assists in axonal stabilization and keeps nodal and paranodal regions of myelin fibers organized. This maintains an adequate propagation of action potentials and restores standard peripheral nerve function. Given the multifactorial nature of this complicated disorder, medical practitioners must carefully screen the patient to avoid confusion and misdiagnosis. There are several studies analyzing the role of Sygen in neurological disorders. However, the medical literature still needs more robust investigations such as randomized clinical trials regarding the administration of this compound for diabetic peripheral neuropathies, specifically.

Understanding the resilience of urban forms as a latent force that drives a place’s physical characterization and social cohesion is essential for defining successful adaptive processes of pre-existing urban fabrics. Budapest’s ninth district (Ferencváros) is an outstanding example of transforming a complex historical urban context, which underwent renovation strategies guided by maintaining and enhancing essential morphological elements. Courtyards have great relevance in conditioning the well-being in areas of high occupational density, especially in terms of accessibility to urban green infrastructure. In the case of Ferencváros, they were reframed to add new layers of use and to improve territorial integration by unifying smaller private courtyard unities into more extensive communal areas, creating a comprehensive urban green network, preserving urban heritage, and increasing green coverage. This study assesses how this recent re-urbanization phenomenon is related to political changes in a post-socialist city. The conjuncture found in Ferencváros is unique, yet it can be applied in other similar contexts. The methodology applied to this study is supervised classification for the quantitative analysis of remote-sensing image data with GIS software assistance—a procedure rarely applied in medium-scale urban analysis. However, it was verified to be precise and effective in tracking morphological changes. The preliminary results indicate a significant intensification in greenery in the urban pattern, especially in the core areas of the blocks: the courtyards. After the intervention, green areas became more predominant, cohesive, and articulated.

Objetivo: Objetiva-se descrever a elaboração e validação de um bundle para prevenção de infecção de corrente sanguínea associada a cateter venoso central em pacientes com germes multirresistentes. Método: Estudo de validação por consenso entre especialistas, concebido em um hospital universitário. A amostra foi composta por 10 enfermeiros do setor e três da Comissão de Controle de Infecção da instituição, um acadêmico de enfermagem e um professor de uma universidade federal. Foi desenvolvido de janeiro a março de 2019. As informações foram coletadas por meio de registro sistemático das reuniões. Resultados: Elaborou-se um bundle para prevenção de infecção de corrente sanguínea associada ao cateter venoso central estabelecendo atividades específicas para cada membro da equipe. Instituiu-se a figura do especialista, profissional altamente qualificado e com carga horária específica para o cuidado aos cateteres. Conclusão: No Brasil, poucas são as instituições que possuem características semelhantes para cuidados de pacientes portadores de GMR. A utilização de um protocolo deve qualificar o atendimento a estes pacientes, aprimorando a segurança no cuidado e reduzindo a morbimortalidade por infecção nosocomial.

We present a detailed protocol for measuring extracellular electrical signals in plants using the electrode insertion technique. Using this approach, it is possible to measure long-distance electrical signaling induced by several stimuli, including wounding, current application, irrigation, burning, and others. Additionally, we describe how to associate gas exchange measurements using an infra-red gas analyzer (IRGA, Model Li-6400, Li-Cor) and turgor pressure measurements using a patch clamp pressure probe (ZIM-probe, YARA ZIM-plant Technology) to measure extracellular electrical signals.• The method requires a complete electrical circuit that includes a measuring device (amplifier and voltmeter) and electrodes that provide a contact between the biological material and the equipment.• The infra-red gas analyzer (IRGA), needs to be grounded because it is an important source of noise for electrophysiological measurements.• The ZIM-probe did not cause any interference in electrical signal measure.• Our approach is useful for plant physiologists wishing to implement the technique of measuring electrical signals in plants, in association with other parameters of plant physiology. In addition, our text was written for agricultural and biological scientists who are not electronics specialists.

(1) Background: The oral films are a new delivery system that can carry several molecules, such as neuromodulator molecules, including caffeine. These delivery systems have been developed and characterized by pharmacokinetics assays. However, new methodologies, such as psychophysiological measures, can complement their characterization. This study presents a new protocol with psychophysiological parameters to characterize the oral film delivery systems based on a caffeine model. (2) Methods: Thirteen volunteers (61.5% females and 38.5% males) consumed caffeine oral films and placebo oral films (in different moments and without knowing the product). Electrocardiogram (ECG), electrodermal (EDA), and respiratory frequency (RF) data were monitored for 45 min. For the data analysis, the MATLAB environment was used to develop the analysis program. The ECG, EDA, and RF signals were digitally filtered and processed, using a windowing process, for feature extraction and an energy mean value for 5 min segments. Then, the data were computed and presented to the entries of a set of Machine Learning algorithms. Finally, a data statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS. (3) Results: Compared with placebo, caffeine oral films led to a significant increase in power energy in the signal spectrum of heart rate, skin conductance, and respiratory activity. In addition, the ECG time-series power energy activity revealed a better capacity to detect caffeine activity over time than the other physiological modalities. There was no significant change for the female or male gender. (4) Conclusions: The protocol developed, and the psychophysiological methodology used to characterize the delivery system profile were efficient to characterize the drug delivery profile of the caffeine. This is a non-invasive, cheap, and easy method to apply, can be used to determine the neuromodulator drugs delivery profile, and can be implemented in the future.

Orthobiologics are biological materials that are intended for the regeneration of bone, cartilage, and soft tissues. In this review, we discuss the application of orthobiologics in Achilles tendinopathy, more specifically. We explain the concepts and definitions of each orthobiologic and the literature regarding its use in tendon disorders. The biological potential of these materials can be harnessed and administered into injured tissues, particularly in areas where standard healing is disrupted, a typical feature of Achilles tendinopathy. These products contain a wide variety of cell populations, cytokines, and growth factors, which have been shown to modulate many other cells at local and distal sites in the body. Collectively, they can shift the state of escalated inflammation and degeneration to reestablish tissue homeostasis. The typical features of Achilles tendinopathy are failed healing responses, persistent inflammation, and predominant catabolic reactions. Therefore, the application of orthobiologic tools represents a viable solution, considering their demonstrated efficacy, safety, and relatively easy manipulation. Perhaps a synergistic approach regarding the combination of these orthobiologics may promote more significant clinical outcomes rather than individual application. Although numerous optimistic results have been registered in the literature, additional studies and clinical trials are still highly desired to further illuminate the clinical utility and efficacy of these therapeutic strategies in the management of tendinopathies.

Some say that all diseases begin in the gut. Interestingly, this concept is actually quite old, since it is attributed to the Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who proposed the hypothesis nearly 2500 years ago. The continuous breakthroughs in modern medicine have transformed our classic understanding of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and human health. Although the gut microbiota (GMB) has proven to be a core component of human health under standard metabolic conditions, there is now also a strong link connecting the composition and function of the GMB to the development of numerous diseases, especially the ones of musculoskeletal nature. The symbiotic microbes that reside in the gastrointestinal tract are very sensitive to biochemical stimuli and may respond in many different ways depending on the nature of these biological signals. Certain variables such as nutrition and physical modulation can either enhance or disrupt the equilibrium between the various species of gut microbes. In fact, fat-rich diets can cause dysbiosis, which decreases the number of protective bacteria and compromises the integrity of the epithelial barrier in the GIT. Overgrowth of pathogenic microbes then release higher quantities of toxic metabolites into the circulatory system, especially the pro-inflammatory cytokines detected in osteoarthritis (OA), thereby promoting inflammation and the initiation of many disease processes throughout the body. Although many studies link OA with GMB perturbations, further research is still needed.

Teacher training in higher education has been relatively neglected in Brazilian universities because postgraduate programs are mainly focused on the research that students produce. However, these postgraduate students are expected to become the next university and college professors. Herein, we present the experience of the Zoology Summer Course, a university extension course organized by graduate students from the Zoology Graduate Program at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. This course was created aimed to provide graduate students with an opportunity to develop and practice their teaching skills. To understand the influences, motives, and legacy of the CVZOO on its organizers, we developed a questionnaire and evaluated the responses by focusing on elements of academic formation and prospects for a teaching career, using systematic content analysis procedures as parameters. Our results demonstrate the importance of CVZOO as a space of dialogue and interaction for professional teacher training, as well as an opportunity to exchange experiences and build professional identity. The course has also influenced other academic activities such as the organization of scientific events, mentoring experience, and publications. Lastly, we discuss the importance of teacher training in Brazilian graduate programs and propose initiatives to improve the training of future university teachers. Keywords: Graduation; Extension Course; Students; Biodiversity Extensão universitária e formação docente no Brasil: o Curso de Verão em Zoologia Resumo: A formação docente universitária tem sido bastante negligenciada em universidade brasileiras, uma vez que programas de pós-graduação focam majoritariamente na produção acadêmico-científica de seus alunos. No entanto, espera-se que os pós-graduandos sejam a próxima geração de professores universitários. Neste estudo, nós apresentamos a experiência do Curso de Verão em Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Este curso foi criado com o objetivo de proporcionar aos estudantes de pós-graduação a oportunidade de desenvolver e praticar suas habilidades para docência. No intuito de entender as influências, motivações e legado do CVZOO em seus organizadores, nós desenvolvemos um questionário e avaliamos as respostas buscando elementos da formação acadêmica e prospecção para a carreira docente, usando procedimentos de análise de conteúdo como parâmetros Os resultados demonstram a importância do CVZOO como um espaço de diálogo e interação com a prática docente bem como uma oportunidade para trocar experiências e construir uma identidade profissional. O curso tem influenciado em outras atividades acadêmicas, tais como organização de eventos científicos, orientação de alunos e publicações. Por fim, este artigo discute a importância da formação docente em programas de pós-graduação no Brasil e propõe algumas iniciativas para melhorar a formação dos futuros professores universitários. Palavras-chave: Pós-Graduação; Curso de Extensão; Estudantes; Biodiversidade

The present study was developed aiming to evaluate the richness and biogeography of social wasp species in the Brazilian savanna, Cerrado. In order to do so, we gathered data from specialized literature and field samplings performed at Sempre-Vivas National Park, northeastern Minas Gerais state. 18 genera and 137 species were recorded, with 4 endemic species of the Mischocytiarus genus. The results showed that Cerrado houses 40% of Brazilian Polistinae fauna and that Sempre-Vivas National Park is responsible for around 29% of this value, which makes it an important refuge for conservation of social wasps from Cerrado, as well as Mato Grosso state, due to its large number of restricted occurrence and endemic species. Nonetheless, there are Brazilian states and conservation units still lacking information for the taxon, making a bigger sampling effort in the Cerrado biome necessary, as it has been rapidly deteriorating due to human action.

El teletrabajo podría convertirse en una alternativa que permita al sector empresarial y al trabajador obtener una relación ganar-ganar para salir adelante ante la situación global de las empresas. El objetivo de este artículo es identificar los factores que permiten, desde el enfoque empresarial, que el trabajador pueda ejecutar actividades laborales acorde a las expectativas de la empresa y alcanzar las metas planteadas como parte del puesto de trabajo. La información fue recopilada por medio de entrevistas en profundidad y encuestas a empresas que realizan de forma exitosa esta modalidad y que han alcanzado las metas planteadas como organizaciones.

This study was developed aiming to compile data concerning the occurrence and distribution of social wasp species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, as well as recording exclusive and rare species. For this purpose, we compiled studies from the specialized literature and created a table containing the species occurrence in the different states which present the phytogeographic domain. A total of 170 species was recorded, corresponding to almost a half of the richness of social wasps in Brazil, including 50 endemic, with highlight to Rio de Janeiro state, which nevertheless is insufficiently sampled. This way, from this work, it is concluded that Brazilian Atlantic Forest must be seen as an important refuge for Polistinae.

Background Vorapaxar as an adjunct to dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) reduces thrombotic events in patients with prior myocardial infarction at the expense of increased bleeding. Withdrawal of aspirin has emerged as a bleeding reduction strategy. The pharmacodynamic effects of vorapaxar with potent P2Y12 inhibitors as well as the impact of dropping aspirin is unexplored and represented the aim of the VORA‐PRATIC (Vorapaxar Therapy in Patients With Prior Myocardial Infarction Treated With Newer Generation P2Y12 Receptor Inhibitors Prasugrel and Ticagrelor) study. Methods and Results Post–myocardial infarction patients (n=130) on standard DAPT (aspirin+prasugrel or ticagrelor) were randomized to 1 of 3 arms: (1) triple therapy: aspirin+prasugrel/ticagrelor+vorapaxar; (2) dual therapy (drop aspirin): prasugrel/ticagrelor+vorapaxar; (3) DAPT: aspirin+prasugrel/ticagrelor. Pharmacodynamic assessments were performed at 3 time points (baseline and 7 and 30 days). Vorapaxar reduced CAT (collagen‐ADP‐TRAP)–induced platelet aggregation, a marker of platelet‐mediated global thrombogenicity (triple therapy versus DAPT at 30 days: mean difference=–27; 95% CI,–35 to –19; P

A pesquisa tem por objeto analisar o conceito de cidadania para fins de ajuizamento da ação popular. Como instrumento de controle da Administração Pública, a ação popular pode ser proposta por qualquer cidadão. A ação encontra-se prevista no inciso LXXIII do artigo 5º da Constituição Federal e está disciplinada pela Lei 4.717/65. O § 3º do artigo 1º da Lei 4.717/65 estatui que o autor precisa comprovar sua condição de cidadão para ajuizar a ação popular, por meio de seu título de eleitor ou de documento equivalente. A exigência prevista na Lei 4.717/65 restringe o conceito de cidadão, ao limitar o uso da ação popular exclusivamente às pessoas detentoras de direitos políticos demonstráveis através do título de eleitor ou de documento equivalente. Conclui a pesquisa que o conceito de cidadania abrange na atualidade não só os direitos políticos, mas também os direitos sociais e civis, motivo por que o termo cidadão, para fins de ajuizamento da ação popular, deve ser amplo, não se limitando aos contornos estabelecidos pela Lei 4.717/65, que nesse aspecto não foi recepcionada pela Constituição Federal. O método utilizado é o hipotético-dedutivo, com base em pesquisa doutrinária e jurisprudencial.

Este trabalho visa abordar o uso da lógica de programação em sala de aula, baseado nas experiências de dois bolsistas de um projeto de extensão de uma faculdade federal do estado de São Paulo, aplicado a uma escola municipal de Campos do Jordão. Para isso, foi desenvolvida uma metodologia de ensino para o ensino fundamental II, com alunos do 8º e 9º ano. A ação se desenvolveu no laboratório computacional da própria escola municipal, onde foram ensinados conceitos lógicos de introdução a lógica de computadores, utilizando o software livre Scratch.

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar quanto à localização do espaço da biopolítica nos contornos da noção do poder soberano e a vida nua, principalmente, nas formas de pensar sobre as práticas políticas que não se enquadram facilmente em categorias tradicionais, como a noção de biopoder. Abordaremos sob o esquema teórico de Agamben e Foucault, ressaltando a característica na qual o poder soberano não mais repousa sob a direção de apenas um sujeito dotado de características excepcionais. No intuito de desvelar, sob a ótica dos autores, como o desenvolvimento das intervenções biopolíticas ocorre, cada vez mais, de maneira velada, amparadas por um saber-poder que as legitima, e emanadas de centros de poder cada vez mais descentralizados. Caracterizando um binômio: a vida qualificada (bios), a vida que merece ser vivida em plenitude e protegida por ser incluída numa comunidade política (como na pólis) e instituída de direitos; e a mera vida (zoé), a vida nua não qualificada, desprovida de garantias e exposta à morte.

The biosynthesis of exopolysaccharides (EPSs) is essential for endophytic bacterial colonisation in plants bacause this exopolymer both protects bacterial cells against the defence and oxidative systems of plants and acts on the plant colonisation mechanism in Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus. The pathway involved in the biosynthesis of bacterial EPS has not been fully elucidated, and several areas related to its molecular regulation mechanisms are still lacking. G. diazotrophicus relies heavily on EPS for survival indirectly by protecting plants from pathogen attack as well as for endophytic maintenance and adhesion in plant tissues. Here, we report that EPS from G. diazotrophicus strain Pal5 is a signal polymer that controls its own biosynthesis. EPS production depends on a bacterial tyrosine (BY) kinase (Wzc) that consists of a component that is able to phosphorylate a glycosyltranferase or to self-phosphorylate. EPS interacts with the extracellular domain of Wzc, which regulates kinase activity. In G. diazotrophicus strains that are deficient in EPS production, the Wzc is rendered inoperative by self-phosphorylation. The presence of EPS promotes the phosphorylation of a glycosyltransferase in the pathway, thus producing EPS. Wzc-mediated self-regulation is an attribute for the control of exopolysaccharide biosynthesis in G. diazotrophicus.

Chalcones (1,3-diaryl-2-propen-1-ones) are naturally occurring polyphenols with known anticancer activity against a variety of tumor cell lines, including osteosarcoma (OS). In this paper, we present the preparation and characterization of spheres (~2 mm) from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) containing a combination of 4′-Amino-1-Naphthyl-Chalcone (D14) and doxorubicin, to act as a new polymeric dual-drug anticancer delivery. D14 is a potent inhibitor of osteosarcoma progression and, when combined with doxorubicin, presents a synergetic effect; hence, physically crosslinked PVA spheres loaded with D14 and doxorubicin were prepared using liquid nitrogen and six freeze–thawing cycles. Physical-chemical characterization using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) presented that the drugs were incorporated into the spheres via weak interactions between the drugs and the polymeric chains, resulting in overall good drug stability. The cytotoxicity activity of the PVA spheres co-encapsulating both drugs was tested against the U2OS human osteosarcoma cell line by 3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and compared to the spheres carrying either D14 or doxorubicin alone. The co-delivery showed a cytotoxic effect 2.6-fold greater than doxorubicin alone, revealing a significant synergistic effect with a coefficient of drug interaction (CDI) of 0.49. The obtained results suggest this developed PVA sphere as a potential dual-drug delivery system that could be used for the prominent synergistic anticancer activity of co-delivering D14 and doxorubicin, providing a new potential strategy for improved osteosarcoma treatment.

In Colombia, the highest cassava production comes from the semi-arid region of the Atlantic Coast with relatively low yield for fresh consumption (≤11 t/ha). Development of improved varieties is based on a plant ideotype which integrates a group of desirable traits independently measured in the field. However, selecting high performance genotypes for several traits simultaneously is a complex process. Sixteen genotypes were evaluated under four environmental conditions (localities) of the Colombian Caribbean region (Cereté, Carmen de Bolivar, Agustín Codazzi, and Sevilla), and two production cycles (2016/2017–2017/2018) in order to assess phenotypic expression of selected traits, their stability, and utility in genotype selection. Selection of promising genotypes should consider both their superiority and stability. Genotypes SM3106-14, GM1692-56, CM9456-12, and GM214-62 were selected based on their agronomic performance. In addition, frequency analysis of sensorial data showed that genotypes CM9456-12, SM1127-8, SM3553-27, and SM3562-32 were preferred by panelists who assessed, color, flavor, texture, and root shape. Determination of superiority through across-environments, multi-trait selection index allows identifying genotypes with superior performance. However, selection was improved when local multi-trait selection indices were included—phenotypic stability determination (through Lin and Binns index and AMMI model) supported an adequate selection of superior and stable cassava genotypes. The inclusion of palatability response and quality features determination in cassava genotypes can be recommended to identify genotypes with higher adoption rates by farmers and consumers.

Forage dry matter is the main source of nutrients in the diet of ruminant animals. Thus, this trait is evaluated in most forage breeding programs with the objective of increasing the yield. Novel solutions combining unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and computer vision are crucial to increase the efficiency of forage breeding programs, to support high-throughput phenotyping (HTP), aiming to estimate parameters correlated to important traits. The main goal of this study was to propose a convolutional neural network (CNN) approach using UAV-RGB imagery to estimate dry matter yield traits in a guineagrass breeding program. For this, an experiment composed of 330 plots of full-sib families and checks conducted at Embrapa Beef Cattle, Brazil, was used. The image dataset was composed of images obtained with an RGB sensor embedded in a Phantom 4 PRO. The traits leaf dry matter yield (LDMY) and total dry matter yield (TDMY) were obtained by conventional agronomic methodology and considered as the ground-truth data. Different CNN architectures were analyzed, such as AlexNet, ResNeXt50, DarkNet53, and two networks proposed recently for related tasks named MaCNN and LF-CNN. Pretrained AlexNet and ResNeXt50 architectures were also studied. Ten-fold cross-validation was used for training and testing the model. Estimates of DMY traits by each CNN architecture were considered as new HTP traits to compare with real traits. Pearson correlation coefficient r between real and HTP traits ranged from 0.62 to 0.79 for LDMY and from 0.60 to 0.76 for TDMY; root square mean error (RSME) ranged from 286.24 to 366.93 kg·ha−1 for LDMY and from 413.07 to 506.56 kg·ha−1 for TDMY. All the CNNs generated heritable HTP traits, except LF-CNN for LDMY and AlexNet for TDMY. Genetic correlations between real and HTP traits were high but varied according to the CNN architecture. HTP trait from ResNeXt50 pretrained achieved the best results for indirect selection regardless of the dry matter trait. This demonstrates that CNNs with remote sensing data are highly promising for HTP for dry matter yield traits in forage breeding programs.

Açaí berry is a fruit from the tree commonly known as açaízeiro (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) originated from the Amazonian region and widely consumed in Brazil. There are several reports of the anti-inflammatory activity of its pulp and few data about the seed’s potential in inflammation control. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of catechin-rich açaí extract on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and carrageenan-induced paw edema. The treatment with E. oleracea ethyl acetate extract (EO-ACET) was used in an in vitro model performed with macrophages stimulated by LPS, in which pro-inflammatory markers were evaluated, and in an in vivo model of acute inflammation, in which edema inhibition was evaluated. EO-ACET showed an absence of endotoxins, and did not display cytotoxic effects in RAW 264.7 cells. LPS-stimulated cells treated with EO-ACET displayed low levels of nitrite and interleukins (IL’s), IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-12, when compared to untreated cells. EO-ACET treatment was able to inhibit carrageenan-induced paw edema at 500 and 1000 mg/kg, in which no acute inflammatory reaction or low mast cell counts were observed by histology at the site of inoculation of λ-carrageenan. These findings provide more evidence to support further studies with E. oleracea seeds for the treatment of inflammation.

El inicio de la era digital ha ocasionado un incremento en el uso de las tecnologías de información y comunicación por parte de los trabajadores que laboran de forma remota, actividad que puede mejorar la competitividad de la organización. Por lo tanto, identificar y validar los factores de las competencias profesionales para el teletrabajo es un componente fundamental de la productividad laboral del teletrabajador como parte de la estrategia de la empresa. Utilizando un análisis cualitativo, con apoyo de estudios cuantitativos, a través de una muestra intencional con grupos de interés, se identificaron los factores necesarios. Luego, con una encuesta a nivel de la sociedad costarricense, se estudió qué factores están significativamente asociados con la productividad laboral. Se encontraron pruebas sólidas de que las percepciones subjetivas tienen un impacto crucial en la productividad laboral de los teletrabajadores para los grupos de interés. Sin embargo, los resultados a nivel de las encuestas no lograron demostrar un nivel de correlación entre los factores identificados a nivel sectorial; por lo cual, el estudio se enfocó en el análisis cualitativo del fenómeno. Los resultados sugieren que el fenómeno estudiado al ser de reciente auge, todavía no presenta un patrón de comportamiento común en las empresas y sociedad, exceptuando a las organizaciones que ya se encuentran ejecutando sus actividades basadas en esta modalidad laboral, en función de las metas establecidas.

Atualmente, a palavra “crise” tornou-se recorrente, transformando-se num signo presente em quase todos os tipos de narrativas, mobilizado como categoria definidora do contemporâneo. A crise é um acontecimento histórico, tanto quanto é uma condição de vida duradoura e fundamental para uma condição humana transcendente. Dessa forma, o objetivo do presente artigo (sendo sua concepção inicial um ensaio) é considerar como a “crise” é mobilizada em construções narrativas para marcar um “momento de verdade” ou como um meio de pensar a própria “história”, portanto, compreender como um dos principais marcos definidores do início da crise política brasileira, as Jornadas de Junho de 2013, foram resignificadas e instrumentalizadas para o processo de impeachment de Dilma Rousseff e a alocação de interesses políticos na promoção de reformas polêmicas, que afetarão de forma profunda as gerações vindouras. Modificando, assim, por completo o programa político vencedor das eleições de 2014.

ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION:The aim of this study was quantify annexin A1 expression in macrophages and cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) + and cluster of differentiation 8 (CD8)+ T cells from the skin of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (n=55) and correlate with histopathological aspects.METHODS:Infecting species were identified by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism, and expression of annexin A1 was analyzed by immunofluorescence.RESULTS:All patients (n = 55) were infected with Leishmania braziliensis . Annexin A1 was expressed more abundantly in CD163 + macrophages in infected skin (p < 0.0001) than in uninfected skin. In addition, macrophages in necrotic exudative reaction lesions expressed annexin A1 at higher levels than those observed in granulomatous (p < 0.01) and cellular lesions p < 0.05). This difference might be due to the need to clear both parasites and necrotic tissue from necrotic lesions. CD4 + cells in cellular lesions expressed annexin A1 more abundantly than did those in necrotic (p < 0.05) and granulomatous lesions (p < 0.01). Expression in CD8 + T cells followed the same trend. These differences might be due to the pervasiveness of lymphohistiocytic and plasmacytic infiltrate in cellular lesions.CONCLUSIONS:Annexin A1 is differentially expressed in CD163 + macrophages and T cells depending on the histopathological features of Leishmania -infected skin, which might affect cell activation.

O trabalho em unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) pode ser considerado um dos mais estressantes para o médico e a relação entre este trabalho e o burnout ainda é pouco estudada. Realizou-se revisão sistemática com o objetivo de descrever a produção científica sobre a prevalência e os fatores associados ao burnout em médicos intensivistas, publicados nas bases de dados: IBECS, LILACS, MEDLINE, Psyc Info, PubMed e Scielo. Os critérios de inclusão foram estudos originais, com delineamento transversal, que utilizaram o Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) em médicos intensivistas. A busca identificou 118 artigos e destes, 09 artigos foram elegíveis. A segunda década dos anos 2000 teve a maior concentração de artigos e cinco publicações foram realizadas no Brasil, o que pode significar um incremento na produção científica nacional sobre o tema. Os resultados dos estudos que utilizaram como critério diagnóstico o nível alto em pelo menos uma dimensão da síndrome, apontaram elevada prevalência de burnout. Observou-se também uma diversidade de fatores associados a prevalência de burnout. Constatou-se uma heterogeneidade de critérios para identificação da síndrome e de formas de cálculo e de interpretação dos resultados do MBI. Sugere-se a padronização dos critérios para identificação da síndrome, dos cálculos e da interpretação dos resultados do MBI.

Naturally-occurring chalcones and synthetic chalcone analogues have been demonstrated to have many biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-malarial, anti-fungal, and anti-oxidant/anti-cancerous activities. Compared to other chalcones, trans-chalcone exhibits superior inhibitory activity in cancer cell growth as shown via in vitro assays, and exerts anti-cancerous effects via the activation of the p53 tumor suppressor protein. Thus, characterization of the specific mechanisms, by which trans-chalcone activates p53, can aid development of new chemotherapeutic drugs that can be used individually or synergistically with other drugs. In this report, we found that trans-chalcone modulates many p53 target genes, HSP40 being the most induced gene in the RNA-Seq data using trans-chalcone-treated cells. CRM1 is also inhibited by trans-chalcone, resulting in the accumulation of p53 and other tumor suppressor proteins in the nucleus. Similar effects were seen using trans-chalcone derivatives. Overall, trans-chalcone could provide a strong foundation for the development of chalcone-based anti-cancer drugs.