Brazilian Journal of Biology最新文献

{"title":"Assessment of the potential toxic of naringenin nanoparticles using ex vivo and in silico models.","authors":"G B Costa, B F Rossi, B P M Oliveira, D E Santo, F V Leimann, A L Romero, A P Peron, O H Gonçalves","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.290560","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.290560","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Naringenin is a flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic, antiatherogenic, and antioxidant properties. However, it has poor technological characteristics and limited bioavailability, which hinder its use in food applications. Nanoencapsulation could address these limitations, but safety concerns regarding nanoengineered bioactives need to be resolved before they can be effectively utilized as food additives. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential cytotoxic, genotoxic, and mutagenic effects of both free and encapsulated naringenin through in vivo experiments using Allium cepa L. roots, along with pharmacokinetic and molecular docking analyses. The results showed that naringenin nanoparticles did not produce significant changes in the cell division index of meristematic cells in A. cepa roots. Additionally, no significant alterations in the mitotic spindle or chromosomal breaks were observed. Molecular docking studies indicated that naringenin effectively binds to the active site of the catalase enzyme (CAT) in a competitive manner, while it attaches to a site away from the active site of superoxide dismutase (SOD2), demonstrating a non-competitive interaction. ADMET property assessments suggested that naringenin exhibits relatively low toxicity and has favorable molecular characteristics for oral administration. In summary, this study supports the potential of naringenin, particularly in its nanoencapsulated form, as a safe and effective ingredient for functional foods, provided that safety concerns regarding nanoencapsulation are adequately addressed.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e290560"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143191310","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"ERRATUM: Isolation, morpho-physiological and molecular characterization, phylogenetic analysis of Trichoderma asperellum in Bangladesh.","authors":"","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.282954er","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.282954er","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>[This corrects the article doi: 10.1590/1519-6984.282954].</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e282954er"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143191375","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Histopathology and genotoxicity alterations in high Andean catfishes from the Upper Orinoco River Basin, Colombia.","authors":"W Corredor-Santamaría, J P Alvarez-Silva, M A Pérez-Mayorga, Y M Velasco-Santamaría, C A Roa-Fuentes, A J Espinosa-Ramírez","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.285785","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.285785","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Freshwater ecosystem pollution has motivated an extensive list of studies due to deleterious impacts becoming a threat to aquatic organisms that inhabit these environments. This is the first approach to water pollution impact derived from human activities on native ichthyofauna in the Garagoa river basin in Boyacá (Colombian Andes). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the occurrence of mercury and arsenic in catfishes and armored catfishes from the Garagoa River basin and the presence of hepatic alterations and genotoxicity in peripheral blood. Biomarkers of effect were analyzed in fishes caught in eight tributaries from Garagoa river basin. The increased presence of lesions in the hepatic architecture and nuclear abnormalities in peripheral blood erythrocytes in Dolichancistrus fuesslii, Chaetostoma joropo, Astroblepus latidens and Trichomycterus cf. knerii individuals could be associated with exposure of pollutants. The tissue alterations observed compromise the fish health, due to the biotransformation processes of xenobiotics such as mercury and arsenic and probably other contaminants. We need to increase surveillance in the Garagoa River to ensure ecological health, recognize hematological and tissue effects in native fishes, and develop effective monitoring strategies to mitigate sources of pollution.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e285785"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143191381","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Molecular investigation of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from inanimate surfaces in Jordanian hospitals.","authors":"O Al-Fawares, R H F Bashabsheh, I Y Natsheh, W Aburayyan","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.285397","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.285397","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Staphylococcus aureus is a ubiquitous nosocomial bacterium, which confers hospital-associated infections ranging from moderate to life-threatening disorders. The pathogenicity of the microorganism is attributed to various camouflage mechanisms harbored in its genome. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains have become significant pathogens in nosocomial and community settings. In the current study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of S. aureus, and more specifically, MRSA at different departments in four major hospitals in Jordan. A total of 500 inanimate surfaces located in the intensive care unit ICU, kidney department, surgery department, internal department, sterilization ‎department, burn department, and operation department were swabbed.‎ All isolates were identified by using routine bacterial culture, Gram staining, and a panel of biochemical tests such as; catalase, coagulase, DNase, urease, oxidase, and hemolysin production were performed. In terms of PCR, three main genes were screened, the 16S rRNA gene targeting Staphylococcus spp as a housekeeping gene, the coA gene was used as a specific gene to detect S. aureus, and the mecA gene used to identify MRSA isolates. Results revealed the prevalence of Staphylococcus spp was 212 (42.4%), ‎S. aureus ‎prevalence by coA gene 198 (39.6%), and MRSA by mecA gene in 81 samples ‎‎ (16.2%)‎. There was a strong positive connection (P < 0.01) found between department site and bacterial contamination.‎ It was concluded that inanimate hospital environments contain a relatively high number of S. aureus and MRSA. Proper sterilization techniques, infection prevention, and control management strategies should be implemented.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e285397"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143191387","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Morphometric characteristics of organs of female chickens (Pazo de Vilane) supplemented with Curcuma longa.","authors":"D F Maldonado Arias, J M Mira-Naranjo, D I Cajamarca Carrazco, J I García-Guerra, M F Baquero-Tapia, M E Sánchez-Salazar, E M Melendres-Medina, A N Montalvan-Cobo, S A Guamán-Rivera","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.285702","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.285702","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The breeding and exploitation of chickens at the backyard or commercial family level is an activity of great economic relevance for families in Ecuador. In addition to providing protein of high biological value for food security, it revalues local food resources that could provide productive benefits. With this objective, a study has been conducted in order to explore the effect of C. longa flour on the final weight as well as morphometric characteristics of the organs of female chickens. Therefore, a total of 200 birds were randomly distributed into four homogeneous groups, being Control, basal diet only, followed by T1, basal diet + 1 g/d, T2, basal diet + 2 g/d and T3, basal diet + 3 g/d of C. longa. The data analyzed under a general linear model yielded that including C. longa between 1 or 2 g/d did not differ in the final weight compared to the control (2763 ± 28 g, on average; P < 0.32). In the morphometry of the upper organs, T1 indicated a shorter length of the esophagus (3.7 ± 0.5 mm; P < 0.002) and gizzard (4.9 ± 0.3 mm), but with a larger heart than the other treatments (P < 0.02). In addition, differences were evident in the liver, gallbladder and cecum (P = 0.01 to 0.001) that were more marked when C. longa was administered between 1 or 2 g/d. In conclusion, supplementation of female chickens with C. longa proved to be a potential option to have greater final weights with important findings in the morphometric characteristics that could improve different aspects of their development, productivity and well-being. Therefore, more studies at the level of immunology and histology are recommended to support the benefits of C. longa.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e285702"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143069751","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Cutting-edge: bionanomaterial solutions in the battle against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2.","authors":"U Saeed, R Uppal, M H Najmi, I Fazal, A A Khan, Z Z Piracha, M R Uppal, H N Ijaz, D U Ozsahin, B Uzun, I Ozsahin","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.279564","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.279564","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the imperative of our time resides in crafting stratagems of utmost precision to confront the relentless SARS-CoV-2 and quell its inexorable proliferation. A paradigm-shifting weapon in this battle lies in the realm of nanoparticles, where the amalgamation of cutting-edge nanochemistry begets a cornucopia of inventive techniques and methodologies designed to thwart the advances of this pernicious pathogen. Nanochemistry, an artful fusion of chemistry and nanoscience, provides a fertile landscape for researchers to craft innovative shields against infection. Within this intricate tapestry, nanoparticles emerge as champions, offering multifaceted solutions encompassing detection, treatment, prevention, and the precise targeting of SARS-CoV-2 incursions. Noteworthy among these innovations, the Silver (Ag) Respi-strips command our attention. These strips stand as exemplars of ingenuity, illuminating the path to swift and precise test detection. Moreover, the integration of Ag-based textile materials into the arsenal against viral propagation opens a promising avenue to curtail the virus's insidious reach. The indomitable force of iron nanoparticles, duly sanctioned by the esteemed FDA, shines as a beacon of hope in the treatment of infection. Their interaction with the glycoprotein spikes of the virus unleashes an inhibitory action of profound consequence. Meanwhile, the domain of diagnostics has been revolutionized by the advent of Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNPs). Their role in automating nucleic acid extraction and purification has proven indispensable, particularly in the diagnostic milieu of SARS-CoV-2. These MNPs wield a magnetic allure, streamlining diagnostic processes with unmatched precision. In this realm of nano-wonders, Gold nanoparticles rise as formidable sentinels, poised at the intersection of versatility and innovation. Their functionalization via a kaleidoscope of functional groups or in concert with antiviral drug combinations augments their prowess. These microscopic champions effectively hinder viral ingress into host cells and orchestrate the controlled release of antiviral agents, casting a profound influence on the course of viral infections. The pandemic landscape has borne witness to the ascendancy of nanotechnology, unveiling an arsenal of nanoparticle-based strategies that promise to defy, detect, treat, and ultimately vanquish SARS-CoV-2. The future beckons, and within the infinitesimal realm of nanoparticles, we find the promise of a brighter, healthier tomorrow.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e279564"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143069623","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Epidemiological analysis of Leishmaniasis prevalence in Pakistan during 2016-2023.","authors":"R Uppal, U Saeed, M E Khattak, A A Khan, M R Uppal, Z Z Piracha, M N Khan, D Shaikh, U Tariq, A R Mahmood, S S Ali, B Muhammad, M N Tariq, S S Gilani, D U Ozsahin, B Uzun, I Ozsahin","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.284742","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.284742","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Leishmaniasis, caused by the Leishmania parasite, remains a persistent public health challenge in Pakistan. Despite control efforts, the disease prevalence continues to rise, particularly among pediatric populations. Understanding prevalence patterns and transmission dynamics is critical for effective control strategies. This study aims to analyze leishmaniasis prevalence data from January 2016 to July 2023 in Pakistan. Specific objectives include assessing temporal trends, demographic patterns, and geographical hotspots of transmission, while emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance and research for targeted interventions. Retrospective analysis was conducted on leishmaniasis prevalence data collected from multiple healthcare facilities across Pakistan. Data included results from diagnostic tests on suspected cases, encompassing both pediatric and adult patients. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to evaluate prevalence rates, demographic characteristics, and geographical distribution of positive cases. Analysis revealed an increasing trend in leishmaniasis prevalence over the study period. Initially, from 2016 to 2020, a positivity rate of 27% was observed exclusively among pediatric patients in Islamabad, with no adult cases. Subsequently, from 2017 to 2022, the positivity rate increased to 42%, affecting both pediatric and adult populations in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Swat. Notably, between July 2022 and July 2023, the positivity rate surged to 56%, primarily impacting adult males in the identified hotspots. The study provides evidence of rising leishmaniasis prevalence in Pakistan, particularly among pediatric patients. Identified hotspots suggest localized transmission, warranting targeted interventions. Enhanced surveillance and research efforts are crucial for understanding disease dynamics and implementing effective control measures. Priority should be given to vulnerable populations and high-burden regions to mitigate leishmaniasis impact in Pakistan.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e284742"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143069745","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Drying and storage of Piptadenia gonoacantha (Mart.) J.F.Macbr. seeds.","authors":"J M Freire, T B Breier, Z M Moreira, L F D de Moraes, J R C Rouws","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.286382","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.286382","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The objective was to evaluate the sensitivity of Piptadenia gonoacantha seeds to desiccation and storage conditions. The seeds were subjected to artificial drying in a forced air convection oven (39.7 °C ± 0.78 and 28.1% ± 1.90 RH) for different periods. After each drying period, evaluation methods were performed to determine the seeds water content and germination (germination test). The seeds were divided into two lots in the storage experiment: with previous drying (at 6.0% water content) and without previous drying (control, at 11% water content), and were stored for 36 months in a plastic bag in three conditions: refrigerator at 5 °C, freezer at -20 °C and natural condition (29 °C). The seeds were removed every three months and subjected to water content measurement and germination tests. The reduction of the initial water content of the seeds from 14% to 6% upon artificial drying resulted in the loss of 1/3 of their viability, suggesting that the seeds are sensitive to desiccation. The best practice to store seeds of P. gonoacantha found in this study was without previous drying, into the freezer. The seeds lost only 14% of their germination after 36 months under these conditions.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e286382"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143069644","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Prevalence and clinical profile of hepatitis C virus infections in multitransfused thalassemic patients in the capital twin cities of Pakistan.","authors":"Z Z Piracha, U Saeed, R Uppal, M R Uppal, A Ahmad Khan, M Abdullah, K Mari, A Basra, S S Gilani, M N Tariq, D U Ozsahin, B Uzun, I Ozsahin","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.284453","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.284453","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hepatitis C virus (HCV) presents a significant global health concern, affecting 3.3% of the world's population. The primary mode of HCV transmission is through blood and blood products. Patients with beta thalassemia, who rely on lifelong blood transfusions, are particularly vulnerable to HCV infections. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of hepatitis C virus infections among multitransfused thalassemic patients in the twin cities of Pakistan's capital. The clinical research, involving the enrollment of 262 multitransfused beta thalassemic patients residing in the capital twin cities of Pakistan. The investigation encompassed the evaluation of hepatitis C virus presence, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, serum creatinine, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and the occurrence of splenectomy. The overall prevalence of Hepatitis C virus infections was notably high at 55.73%. This was particularly pronounced among patients aged 20 years and older, with a 100% infection rate. In HCV-positive thalassemic patients, the average ALT level was observed to be 98 U/L, while average creatinine values stood at 0.39 mg/dL. Additionally, hepatomegaly was prevalent in 82.20% of HCV-positive thalassemic patients, featuring an average liver size increase of 4.33 cm. Splenomegaly was evident in 67.12% of HCV-positive thalassemic patients, with an average spleen size augmentation of 4.46 cm. Splenectomy was identified in 15.75% of cases. The incidence of HCV infections in the thalassemic population of Pakistan is alarmingly high. Furthermore, the risk of contracting HCV infections escalates with the advancing age of thalassemic patients. Elevated ALT levels and hepatomegaly were pervasive among the majority of HCV-positive thalassemic patients. Consequently, there is a compelling need for rigorous screening of blood products prior to transfusion to mitigate the future burden of HCV in Pakistan.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e284453"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143069759","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Effect of iron fortification and prebiotics on iron biomarkers in anemic rats.","authors":"S Iqbal, S Zafar, W Ahmed, S H B U Shah, J Abid, U Farooq, A M R Ahmad","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.284867","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.284867","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>One of the biggest public health problems globally is that of iron deficiency anemia. The present research aimed to determine the effect of prebiotics along with iron fortification on iron biomarkers in female anemic rats as some evidence suggests that prebiotics convert increase the solubility of iron, thereby enhancing its absorption. A total of 126 Sprague Dawley rats were fed with sixteen different types of fortified feed containing prebiotics (Inulin + Galacto Oligosaccharides) and Iron Fortificants (Sodium Ferric Ethylenediaminetetraacetate + Ferrous Sulphate). The duration of the trials was 3 months aimed at determining the effect of iron fortification and prebiotics on different iron biomarkers including Hemoglobin (Hb), Hematocrit, Red Blood Cell (RBC) count, Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC). The trials resulted in statistically significant improved iron biomarkers among female anemic rats (P-value < 0.05). It was concluded that iron fortification and prebiotics in combination were able to increase the levels of iron biomarkers in female anemic rats.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e284867"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143069743","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}