Brazilian Journal of Biology最新文献

{"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}

{"title":"Growth and metabolic functions of Schizolobium amazonicum subjected to nickel doses.","authors":"L D Souza, C Tavares-Drago, B N M S Rosa, J P Teixeira, T M Silva, L F Gonçalves, L R Silva, V K C Ribeiro, T J M Oliveira, V R Nascimento, A E A Brito, G A S Nogueira, C F Oliveira-Neto","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.283010","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.283010","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Anthropic activities such as industries, agriculture and mining has generated public concern for its numerous irregular disposals of its waste, the incorrect deposition of heavy metals such as nickel (Ni) has caused the degradation and contamination of groundwater and water. Studies that point out cheap and efficient solutions have been an obstacle to the advancement of solutions for degraded area recovery programs. For this, a vegetable home experiment was developed, with an entirely randomized design with 5 treatments being a control (no metal) and 4 nickel concentrations (200 μM/L; 400 μM/L; 600 μM/L and 800 μM/L) with 6 repetitions. The variables analyzed were growth and biochemical activity. Plant height and diameter were not affected by increasing nickel concentrations and this response was due to the low leaf and leaflet production capacity of the species under these conditions, consequently reducing biomass production. Metabolic parameters such as sucrose, carbohydrates, proline and glycine increase under stressful conditions, which does not occur for nutritional configurations that decrease with increasing nickel stress.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e283010"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143026118","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":"Cannabis oil in treating Parkinson's disease: improvement of motor and non-motor symptoms: a case report.","authors":"C T M I Issa, R D Castro, K L G D Albuquerque","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.290305","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.290305","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, which leads to a reduction in the production of dopamine. Medication with levodopa becomes less effective as the disease progresses. Despite the excellent results observed in clinical practice with the medicinal use of Cannabis in the treatment of PD, the level of scientific evidence is still limited due to the small number of studies published in this field. We present the case of a 77-year-old man diagnosed 22 years ago with PD in an advanced stage, with significant bradykinesia, tremor, and rigidity along with the inability to maintain an upright position and walk, exacerbated by a femur fracture. He also had advanced dysphagia, resulting in a gastrostomy. Although lucid, he showed no interest in conversation and tended to become depressed and isolated. He used Prolopa® with no satisfactory therapeutic response. After starting treatment with Cannabis sativa oil, he is now able to walk around the house frequently and eat pasty food regularly without choking or broncho-aspiration episodes. There has also been a significant improvement in non-motor symptoms; he is more active, cheerful, communicative, and attentive to his surroundings. Further studies are needed to elucidate these results and the mechanisms of action of cannabinoids through which they exert possible neuroprotective and neuroreparative effects. These compelling results suggest that cannabis oil may offer a valuable and effective therapeutic option for individuals with Parkinson's disease.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e290305"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143026117","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":"Would Phrynops geoffroanus' plastron formula and morphological diversity be preserved under anthropic conditions?","authors":"Mauro Sérgio Cruz Souza Lima, Ulisses Caramaschi, Jonas Pederassi, Joara de Sousa Andrade, Diogo Brunno E Silva Barbosa","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.286230","DOIUrl":"10.1590/1519-6984.286230","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Phrynops geoffroanus has a wide distribution in South America, living in aquatic environments such as rivers, streams, and lakes, in natural and urban environments. In this work, the plastron formula and the diversity index associated with the allometric condition are established for the species. For the morphometric analyses, the following were calculated: standard error, class intervals, sample standard deviation, principal component analysis, and allometry. When evaluating the morphometric dependence, r = 0.85 was obtained, which allowed us to verify the allometric classification Y, the growth rate K, and the proportion of growth b for each segment that composes the length of the plastron (LP). Thus, the calculated morphometric set demonstrates that the plastron formula can serve as a diagnostic character for Phrynops geoffroanus. We inferred from this study that the plastron formula can be maintained even in conditions of high environmental degradation.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e286230"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143026120","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":"Antiproliferative effect of hydroalcoholic brown propolis extract on tumor and non-tumor cells.","authors":"I Vendruscolo, G H Berton, M T Biffi, P A Bressiani, A K G Oliveira, A P Berti, V M Concato-Lopes, W R Pavanelli, A P Simon, T L C Oldoni, F A R Santos, I A L Dalmolin, M H G Canteri, E Düsman","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.287297","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.287297","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Studies show that propolis has antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and immunomodulatory properties, and may protect against diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. We aimed to extract compounds of brown propolis with hydroalcoholic solvents and evaluate their cytotoxic activity on tumor and non-tumor cells by MTT test. We tested the solute:solvent ratio (ethanol:water) and extraction time in a Shaker incubator (710 rpm) before conducting a central composite rotational design (CCRD) to optimize time and solvent mixture. We found that a temperature of 80 °C and a solvent concentration of 90:10 were the best extraction conditions for phenolic compounds, especially pinocembrin and cinnamic acid. The extract showed antioxidant capacity, acid characteristics, low humidity, and the presence of ash, lipids, and soluble solids. The cytotoxicity test with normal kidney cells of Macaca mullata (LLC-MK2) and human lung tumor cells (A549) showed no statistical difference from the negative control. For liver tumor cells (HuH7.5), different concentrations showed cytotoxic/antiproliferative activity. Thus, the data indicate that this product deserves prominence in the search for new applications.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e287297"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143016875","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":"Natural history of the hyperdominant tree, Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.) Kuntze, in the Amazon River estuary.","authors":"A R Dantas, C C Vasconcelos, M C Guedes, A C Lira-Guedes, M T F Piedade","doi":"10.1590/1519-6984.282123","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.282123","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Pentaclethra macroloba is a hyperdominant species with multiple uses in the Amazon. This species tolerates varying flood amplitudes, however the effect of flood topographic gradient on its ecophysiology remains unclear. We want to know if individuals from the high (10 trees) and low (20 trees) várzea show distinct phenological patterns as a function of the flood gradient, as well as their colonization strategies and their seed predators. From February 2018 to December 2019, we monitored the phenology of P. macroloba. There was no difference in phenological patterns between the two environments, but flooding caused different phenological responses. The increase in temperature favored the production of flower buds and increased precipitation reduced the proportion of flowering trees in both environments. The increase in rainfall and river flood level favored the ripe fruit only in the low várzea where individuals were most exposed to flooding. When the flood level increased, there was a greater proportion of trees losing leaves in both environments. The species produces high variability in seed size (length: H = 49.2, p > 0.001; width: H = 62.5, p > 0.001; weight: H = 70.4, p > 0.001). The seed predation rate was 5%, mainly caused by Carmenta surinamensis moth larva. The flood gradient established different phenological responses in the species, directing trees to have a better reproductive performance. The low predation rate and the variability in seed size are factors that contribute to the formation of large population densities in the Amazon River estuary.</p>","PeriodicalId":55326,"journal":{"name":"Brazilian Journal of Biology","volume":"84 ","pages":"e282123"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143016318","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}