Acmella oleracea, commonly known as jambú, is a great source of spilanthol, a secondary metabolite responsible for different kind of biological activities, such as the antioxidant, antimicrobial, ...cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory bioactivities. The purpose of this work was to evaluate spilanthol content in A. oleracea plants obtained from three different cultivation conditions - in vitro, acclimatized and in field - and compare two different extraction techniques: maceration and microwave assisted extraction (MAE). Therefore, A. oleracea nodal segments were cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium. After 30days, developed plants were transferred to ex vitro conditions and successfully acclimatized. From all types of culture, the whole plant as well as the flowers, leaves, stems and roots were used, separately, to obtain ethanolic extract (75%) but only the micropropagated whole plant was used on the factorial design 24–1 on the microwave-assisted extraction. All the samples were quantified by HPLC-DAD and analyzed by CG-MS. Results show that the different acclimatized plant parts are the richest in spilanthol content, followed by the in vitro culture and, finally, field material. The MAE was able to extract the highest amount of spilanthol from in vitro whole plant (3.09%) compared to the classical maceration extract (0.98%) and, furnished good crude extracts yields under an optimized study accurately explained by the mathematical model. The antibacterial assay presented a negative result using in vitro samples and bacteria inhibition with field samples against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC 12228) standard strains.
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•In vitro micropropagation of Acmellaoleraceaunderhormone-free medium•Acclimatized flowers as higher spilanthol producers compared to field conditions•Good spilanthol and crude extract yields were achieved in microwave conditions.•Mathematic model suggested a satisfactorily representation of the MAE process.•Free-spilanthol hexane partition exhibited antibacterial activity.
The ability of Stemphylium lycopersici immobilized in MCM 48 zeolite structure as biocatalyst for ω-transamination reactions was evaluated. The conversion capacity for rac-1-methylbenzylamine, and ...also rac-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-naphthylamine was verified in order to ascertain the potential of this biocatalyst in relation to the bioconversion of amines with different side chains when using immobilized crude enzyme extract in zeolite. In this first reaction (after 24 h), a conversion of 23% to acetophenone and 27% to tetralone was obtained. Observing the promising values obtained in the kinetic resolution reactions, an experimental design was carried considering the amount (mg) out of biocatalyst present in the support and the amount of ionic liquid used Central Compound Rotational Design (CCRD2 complete). After optimization, values close to 36% conversion were achieved. In the present work, there were performed 25 cycles of 18 h with Zeolite MCM48 with the addition of ionic liquids (LI). The presence of LI's helps with stability and still acts as structure drivers, which may have helped by providing a large number of recycles. In this analysis, 87% of the initial activity was maintained.
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•Stemphylium lycopersici immobilized in MCM 48 zeolite structure showed potential as a biocatalyst for ω-transamination reactions.•Conversion capacities for different amines were evaluated, with promising results obtained.•An experimental design was carried out to optimize the reaction conditions, achieving close to 36% conversion.•The addition of ionic liquids (LI) helped maintain stability and allowed for a high number of recycles.•Overall, 87% of the initial activity of the biocatalyst was maintained throughout the analysis.
Lyophilized whole cells and the crude enzymatic extract from the fungus Stemphylium lycopersici were successfully immobilized in situ in rigid polyurethane foam, as an alternative biocatalyst for the ...kinetic resolution of rac-1-phenylethylamine, an interesting building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. The enzymatic activity of immobilized whole cells and the crude enzymatic extract was 2.52 and 5.05 U/g, respectively. The immobilization yield in polyurethane of both forms was at least above 100%, and the process did not change the affinity of the biocatalyst for the substrate. The optima reaction conditions for the kinetic resolution of rac-1-phenylethylamine into acetophenone were: 32.5 °C, 120 rpm by 24 h containing 10 mL (20% m/v) of phosphate buffer (pH 7.5) and 20% biocatalyst mass, resulting in conversions of 45% and 34% using the immobilized lyophilized fungus and crude enzymatic extract, respectively. Stemphylium lycopersici was also subjected to high pressure using CO2. The best conditions provided conversions of 49 (99% ee) and 26.21 (without ee) using the immobilized lyophilized fungus and the immobilized lyophilized crude enzyme extract, respectively, with 20 cycles of reuse and recovery greater than 50% (fungus). Interestingly, the compounds were satisfactorily converted to the corresponding ketones with up to 90% ee for the R-enantiomer. The capacity for conversion of the immobilized lyophilized fungus to different amines: rac-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-naphthylamine, rac-1-phenylpropylamine, and rac-phenylbutylamine was also evaluated. ω-transaminase activity changed significantly depending on the experimental conditions applied, allowing the selection of proper operating conditions for advantageous application of this biocatalyst in transamination reactions.
•Stemphylium lycopersici as biocatalyst for kinetic resolution of amines.•The efficiency of polyurethane for the immobilization of biocatalysts.•The fungal whole cell contributes positively for ω-transamination reactions.•The activation process in pressurized CO2 provided a better catalytic performance.
Oranges are among the most consumed fruits in Brazil, with over 80 million tons production per year. Currently, one of the main uses of orange residues is to supplement animal feeds. However, orange ...residues can be used in other ways, including for obtaining enzymes. However, for the pyridoxal 5-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme group, which catalyze transamination reactions, no work has been described. The use of orange-peel residues for solid-state fermentation using endophytic microorganisms is a new and interesting approach to produce these enzymes at lower cost compared to the use of purified enzymes associated to PLP co-factor. In the batch process developed in this study, it was possible to achieve a maximum conversion of 49% after 48 h of incubation, an enantiomeric excess of 99% (R)-1,2,3,4-tetra-hydro-1-naphthylamine, and productivity of 0.0102 mg biocatalyst.h−1, using the solid enzyme preparation from Alternaria arborescens as biocatalyst. In a continuous-flow system, 51% conversion and >99% ee of (R)-1,2,3,4-tetra-hydro-1-naphthylamine were achieved, with a six-fold increase productivity (0.0625 mg biocatalyst.h−1). We have screened different fungi samples for transaminase activity and we found a hit for solid-state fermentation. The endophytic fungus genetically identified as Alternaria arborescens showed promising results for the transaminase activity on the kinetic resolution of chiral amine blocks. Therefore, along with other improvement of the biocatalytic toolbox for chiral amines synthesis, we have found that the solid enzymatic preparation of the endophytic fungus Alternaria arborescens could accept bulky substrates with reasonable activity, compared to the wild-type transaminase already published over literature, and, with high enantioselectivity.
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•First report of transaminase activity for whole cells and solid enzyme preparation of Alternaria arborescens and Sordaria sp.•Higher ω-transaminase activity on solid enzymatic preparation of A. arborescens.•High conversions in (R)-1,2,3,4-tetra-hydro-1-naphthylamine with solid enzyme preparation in a continuous-flow system.
A utilização de plantas medicinais/fitoterápicos (PMF) no tratamento de doenças é uma prática milenar oriunda do empirismo. Mesmo com o avanço do conhecimento científico para a produção sintética de ...fármacos, o uso dessas plantas se manteve inalterável e variando de acordo a economia e o desenvolvimento de alguns países ou regiões, continua sendo a principal fonte terapêutica, tendo como relato a crença de serem totalmente seguros. Ao logo do tempo, a utilização dessas plantas para tratamento de doenças/enfermidades colaborou para o surgimento de medicamentos fitoterápicos, que possui uma eficácia reconhecida para tratamento da sintomatologia ou até mesmo a cura de doenças. O uso de fitoterápicos concomitantes a medicamentos convencionais pode desencadear uma série de alterações farmacocinética nesses usuários, diminuindo a segurança e eficácia e podendo gerar uma falha terapêutica, tendo em vista que os fitoterápicos e as plantas medicinais possuem ativos. Sabe-se que muitos pacientes não informam seus médicos a respeito da utilização de plantas medicinais (PM), aumentando os riscos de possíveis interações medicamentosas e uma falha no diagnóstico preciso, relacionado com os sintomas apresentados. Em razão de toda problemática apresentada, o objetivo deste estudo foi propor uma grande discussão buscando conscientização unilateral sobre as possíveis interações medicamentosas e efeitos tóxicos da utilização irracional e inadequada de PMF, além de propor um ciclo de monitoramento “fitotóxico terapêutico” com finalidade de rastrear, notificar e minimizar eventos adversos relacionados com a exposição de inadequada PMF’s. Para tanto foi realizada uma revisão literária sistêmica qualitativa, além de uma pesquisa de campo para confirmação da problemática apresentada. Os resultados obtidos confirmam que esta pratica relacionada a utilização inadequada de PMF é oriunda de crenças e muitos paradigmas sociais. Sendo fortemente empregada na sociedade sem o conhecimento básico relacionada a utilização racional e os possíveis efeitos tóxicos.
Accessibility is crucial to ensure that all users have interfaces that meet their needs and preferences, promoting inclusion in all sociocultural spaces. In the context of healthcare services in ...Guanambi-BA, deaf individuals face communication difficulties due to the lack of accessibility in identification signs, which are written only in Portuguese, excluding those who use Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) as their first language. This creates barriers that compromise the autonomy and quality of life of these individuals. Faced with this reality, the objective of this work was to produce images and videos in Libras, accessible through QR codes inserted in the identification signs of healthcare sectors. This initiative aims to promote the autonomy and dignity of deaf individuals using healthcare services in Guanambi, Bahia, contributing to a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
The present work aims to provide a brief case study of a distribution center of a major Brazilian pharmaceutical retail company. Initially, a quick literature review is presented regarding the ...fundamental concepts of Logistics, as well as its primary activities according to the most traditional literature, the concept of a distribution center, and the important characteristics for its proper functioning, and finally, the delimitation of the lean philosophy, elucidating key points to be used in its implementation. The study showed that, within a context of continuous improvements, lean practices implemented in production, such as VSM, are a powerful tool for diagnosing and repairing deviations. Thus, it is understood that the lean logistics philosophy is indeed key to the proper functioning of companies in general, especially for large distribution centers, whose merchandise flow depends on robust logistics at the end of the production chain.
Despite the high effectiveness of the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine in preventing invasive disease (ID) in children, Hib vaccine failures (VFs) cases may still occur. This study aimed ...to characterize the Hib-VF cases in Portugal in a 12-year period and trying to identify the possible associated risk factors.
Prospective descriptive nationwide surveillance study. Bacteriologic and molecular studies were performed at the same Reference Laboratory. Clinical data were collected by the referring pediatrician.
Hib was identified in 41 children with ID and 26 (63%) were considered VF. Nineteen (73%) cases occurred in children less than 5 years old; 12 (46%) occurred before the Hib vaccine booster dose at 18 months of age. Comparing the first and the last 6-year periods of the study, the incidence rate of Hib, VF and total H. influenzae (Hi) ID significantly raised (P < 0.05). VF cases corresponded, respectively, to 13.5% (7/52) and 22% (19/88) of total Hi-ID cases (P = 0.232). Two children died due to epiglottitis and 1 acquired sensorineural hearing loss. Only 1 child had an inborn error of immunity. The immunologic workup performed in 9 children revealed no significant abnormalities. All 25 Hib-VF strains analyzed belonged to the same clonal complex 6.
In Portugal, more than 95% of children are vaccinated against Hib, but severe Hib-ID cases still occur. No predisposing factors were clearly identified to justify the increased number of VF in recent years. Along with continued Hi-ID surveillance, Hib colonization and serologic studies should be implemented.
•Patients who had recently experienced an acute myocardial infarction and presented standardized phase angle had a longer hospital length of stay.•Patients who had recently experienced an acute ...myocardial infarction and presented low standardized phase angle had a higher incidence of cardiovascular mortality at 12 mo.•No association was observed between standardized phase angle and 12-mo cardiovascular adverse events.•When adjusted by the number of cardiovascular risk factors, the standardized phase angle was not associated with overall mortality.
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is myocardial necrosis resulting from myocardial ischemia, and its risk factors are usually a combination of the consumption of tobacco, inadequate diet, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle, in addition to preexisting comorbidities. These risk factors may compromise cellular integrity, affecting physiologic and nutritional components. The phase angle (PhA) has been measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to identify the quality of the cell membrane and the distribution of body fluids. The aim of this study was to verify if the standardized PhA (SPhA) is a predictor of short- and long-term adverse cardiovascular events in patients after AMI.
This was a prospective cohort study including hospitalized adult patients with a diagnosis of AMI. Demographic, clinical, and nutritional data were collected. The PhA was calculated through the measuring of the resistance (R) and reactance (Xc) from BIA, and it was adjusted based on reference values for sex and age, presenting, therefore, the SPhA. Low SPhA was defined as that <10th percentile of distribution. Hospital length of stay (LOS) and major adverse cardiac events (MACE), such as new hospital admission for unstable angina, new MI, and cardiovascular mortality, were observed. The sample comprised 153 patients, with a mean age of 61.2 ± 12.6 y, with 57.5% being older adults.
Fifteen patients with low SPhA (values <–3.10) had a longer LOS compared with those with normal SPhA (median 14 versus 8 d, P = 0.007), and shorter time for the occurrence of death (320 versus 354 d, P = 0.024). In the multivariate analysis, an association was observed between SPhA and longer LOS (hazard ratio, 9.25; P = 0.005), but not with mortality and MACE (P > 0.05 for all).
SPhA was a predictor of longer LOS, but not of long-term adverse cardiac events in patients following AMI.
Since 2022, monkeypox virus (MPXV) has been causing a multinational epidemic with Brazil as one of the most affected countries.1,2 During the current mpox (formally known as monkeypox) epidemic, men ...with AIDS are at increased risk of severe illness and death, although it remains unclear whether deaths are directly attributed to MPXV.2 We report clinical and autopsy findings of two men in their early 20s, who had severe mpox associated with AIDS in São Paulo. The pathology of mpox described here is severe and includes new findings of visceral involvement by MPXV (figure and appendix pp 8–11).3–6 In both cases, autopsies showed anasarca, cavity effusions, and diffuse MPXV-mediated lesions in various organs confirmed by detectable vaccinia antigens and MPXV-DNA. Besides multiple MPXV-skin lesions with necrotic ulcers and MPXV-dermal vasculitis, the autopsies showed MPXV-induced bilateral necrotising nodular pneumonia, acute pleuritis with pleural effusion, nodular ulcerative gastrointestinal lesions, necrotic glossitis with vasogenic oedema, extensive proctitis, pancreatitis, sialoadenitis, orchitis (including germinative cells within seminiferous tubules), epididymitis, adrenalitis, and haemophagocytosis. ...in cases of HIV and MPXV coinfection, MPXV appears to be transmitted by a complex mechanism involving contact with infected skin and mucosa, and respiratory and sexual transmission, corroborating previous data on aerosol MPVX animal infection and MPXV–DNA detection in semen.8–12 These autopsies show previously undescribed findings in the pathology of human MPXV infection and are helpful to understand why people living with HIV or AIDS are under high risk for worse mpox-associated outcomes.13–15 We declare no competing interests.
