Dissertations/Thesis

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2024
Thesis
1
  • ELIETE ALMEIDA ALVIN
  • DEVELOPMENT OF AN ELECTROANALYTICAL PLATFORM WITH GRAPHITE
    ELECTRODES ON PAPER MATRIX MODIFIED WITH NANOMATERIALS AIMSING
    BIOTECHNOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL APPLICATIONS

  • Advisor : ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANGELINA BOSSI FRAGA
  • ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • BRUNO GABRIEL LUCCA
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • MARCOS VINÍCIUS DA SILVA
  • Rodrigo Amorim Bezerra da Silva
  • Data: Mar 26, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • The rapid development in nanotechnology during the last few decades offers
    broad prospects in the use of nanoscale materials for different areas of
    industry, technology, medicine and biotechnology. In this context, the
    scientific community has been developing research aimed at the development
    and application of nanomaterials in sensors and biosensors. Sensors are
    devices that can be used to detect different substances, they can be
    electrochemical, optical, biosensors and colorimetric sensors.
    Electrochemical and optical sensors are the most commonly used due to their
    high sensitivity and specificity. A promising technology in this field is paper
    matrix-based electrochemical devices as they offer several benefits such as
    portability, low cost, sensitivity and specificity. These devices have the
    potential to revolutionize the way we detect and monitor analytes in various
    environments due to several advantages. In recent years, paper-based
    electrochemical devices have gained significant attention due to their
    simplicity and ease of use, as well as being disposable and biodegradable.
    Thus, this project aimed to develop a paper electrochemical microdevice with
    a system of three electrodes (reference, counter electrode and working
    electrode) made by hand, with graphite pencil, modified with diverse
    nanomaterials, aiming for application in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and
    ascorbic acid. The nanomaterials used were zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals,
    graphene oxide (GO), CdSe/CdS ultrasmall quantum dots (USQDs),
    GO/USQDs nanocomposites and nickel-doped titanium dioxide in
    concentrations: 0.5%, 1 %, 5% and 10%, deposited only on the working
    electrode, in order to evaluate which nanomaterial presented the best
    electroanalytical properties for subsequent application in modifying the
    sensor. Based on the results, we confirmed the stability and specificity of the
    sensor for detecting SARS-CoV-2 and Vitamin C, in addition to certifying
    that the nanomaterials enhanced the electroanalytical properties of the
    electrodes. Thus, generating nanotechnology platforms as an essential tool for
    both the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the detection of Vitamin C.

2
  • NAIANNY LÍVIA OLIVEIRA NASCIMENTO MERGULHÃO
  • Development of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) essential oil encapsulates by ionic gelation and evaluation of antioxidant activity

  • Advisor : JOAO XAVIER DE ARAUJO JUNIOR
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • JOAO XAVIER DE ARAUJO JUNIOR
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • IRINALDO DINIZ BASILIO JUNIOR
  • TICIANO GOMES DO NASCIMENTO
  • JOSEAN FECHINE TAVARES
  • JOHNNATAN DUARTE DE FREITAS
  • Data: May 17, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • Considering the need to improve products, improve the thermal stability of volatile compounds and develop complementary pharmacological therapies, this work aimed to develop sodium alginate encapsulates loaded with clove essential oil (Syzygium aromaticum) using techniques ionic gelation and freeze drying. They were prepared encapsulated in different concentrations of essential oil: F1 (1.0%, v/v); F2 (0.5%, v/v); and F3 (0.1%, v/v). A 3.0% (w/v) CaCl2 solution was used for chemical crosslinking with the alginate (1.0% w/v). Encapsulated F1, F2 and F3 were subjected to freeze-drying to obtain encapsulated LF1, LF2 and LF3, respectively. The following techniques were used to characterize the formulations: eugenol release, degree of swelling, GC/MS, SEM, FTIR, TGA/DSC, in addition to analysis of antioxidant power (DPPH and FRAP). Encapsulated F1, F2 and F3 were rounded, rigid to the touch, with color varying from translucent (lower concentration of CEO) to whitish (higher concentration of CEO). Freeze-drying was used in order to remove the aqueous content present in the encapsulates and provide greater thermal stability to the final product. The encapsulated lyophilized products appeared rigid, with a dry, rough and shriveled appearance. The Encapsulation Efficiency (EE%) was high (LF1: 39.3% + 0.79; LF2: 50.4% + 0.63; LF3: 76.9% + 0.51). Eugenol was the majority component identified by GC/MS. The high phenolic content present in the essential oil (449.9 mg E.AG g-1) was preserved in the freeze-dried encapsulates, resulting in important antioxidant activity. The encapsulated LF1 showed the lowest IC50 of 18.1 μg/mL, reaching 80.3% inhibition of the DPPH radical. In the FRAP test, it presented a reducing power of 1,824.6 + 3.5 µmol Fe2+/g, a value close to that of pure essential oil. The three lyophilized encapsulates showed statistical differences in all concentrations analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (p<0.05). The FTIR peaks corresponding to the CEO present in the encapsulates were identified without molecular changes. SEM microscopies showed a low tendency for the formation of agglomerates and rigid particles, with a wrinkled, porous appearance and irregular shapes. In thermal analysis, the LF3 encapsulated was apparently more stable followed by the LF2 and LF1 encapsulated. The degree of swelling was 19.2% (PBS solution). The release of eugenol (92.5%) in PBS solution was faster than in acidic medium. In general, it is concluded that the results are promising and offer a basis for expanding the scope of research into freeze-dried encapsulated essential oils. The low-cost technology used allows the content and characteristics of CEO to be maintained in the three concentrations tested, offering a basis for future research with essential oil encapsulates.

3
  • REGINA DA SILVA ACACIO
  • Use of microcapsules with Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi essential oil in Integrated Pest Management

  • Advisor : ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • JOÃO GOMES DA COSTA
  • MERYBETH FERNANDEZ TRIANA
  • Data: May 20, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • Essential oils have been advocated as an effective alternative in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), offering a natural and sustainable approach compared to synthetic pesticides. The essential oil of Schinus terebinthifolius, known for its antimicrobial and insecticidal properties, emerges as a viable alternative for controlling these pests, integrating into IPM through the push-pull strategy. Microencapsulation allows for the gradual release of the essential oil, protecting it against adverse environmental factors such as light and moisture. The proposed research aims to develop a matrix for the controlled release of S. terebinthifolius essential oil to repel the stored grain pests Lasioderma serricorne and Alphitobius diaperinus. The thesis is structured into five chapters, presented as scientific articles and a patent application. Maltodextrin and arabic gum polymers were employed as encapsulating agents. Characterization of the microparticles reveals their circular shape, rigidity, and absence of pores, indicating efficient core coverage by the wall materials. Thermogravimetric analysis of the formulations demonstrates the stability of the microparticles against temperature variations, both in the presence and absence of the essential oil. Thermogravimetric curves show three significant mass losses, indicating the presence of volatile components and gradual degradation of the samples. The repellent activity of microparticles containing the essential oil was evaluated through laboratory bioassays. The results indicate that the microparticles maintain the repellent activity of the essential oil, proving its effectiveness in controlling these pests. The microparticles exhibit a significant repellency rate compared to the control arm, suggesting their ability to deter insects. The developed matrix allows for the controlled release of the essential oil, maintaining its repellent activity against the target pests. The presented results contribute to scientific advancement and practical application in the agricultural industry by reducing dependence on synthetic pesticides and minimising associated environmental impacts.

4
  • ILZA FERNANDA BARBOZA DUARTE
  • DEVELOPMENT OF NUTRACEUTICS CONTAINING EXTRACT OF RED PROPOLIS AND NANOPARTICLES/NANOCOMPOSITES OBTAINED BY IONIC GELLING

  • Advisor : ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • ANGELINA BOSSI FRAGA
  • IRINALDO DINIZ BASILIO JUNIOR
  • MARCOS VINÍCIUS DA SILVA
  • RODRIGO CÉSAR ROSA
  • Data: Aug 15, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • Nutraceuticals are foods or parts of foods that will provide health and pharmacological benefits, including the prevention and/or treatment of disease and may range from isolated nutrients to engineered products. A natural product classified as food is red propolis, which has been studied all over the world and is widely used in the form of an extract, in human therapy, due to its pharmacological properties. However, propolis is quite unstable to factors such as oxygen, light, heat and humidity, which compromises its functional activity, requiring technological alternatives to improve its conservation and encapsulation methods can be used in order to increase its stability when exposed to adverse conditions. Propolis has also been used as a material for the production of nanostructured systems, including inorganic nanoparticles, such as metallic ones. Currently, zinc oxide and silver have been used in the production of nanostructured compounds, which have attracted the attention of researchers from different areas. In this context, the work aims to develop nutraceuticals from the encapsulation of red propolis, zinc oxide nanocrystals (NCsPV/ZnO) and zinc and silver oxide nanocomposites (NCs-PV/ZnOAg) by the ionic gelation process. In this study, six formulations called F1 (alginate), F2 (alginate+ZnO), F3 (alginate+ZnOAg), F4 (alginate+PV), F5 (alginate+PV+ZnO) and F6 (alginate+PV+ZnOAg) were developed. ) from the ionic gelling method using sodium alginate (2%) and calcium chloride (3%). Subsequently, the average weight of the microcapsules was evaluated, obtaining similar values; quantified the encapsulation efficiency, where it was verified that F4, F5 and F6 presented efficiency of 92.51, 94.12 and 95.92%, respectively; the antioxidant activity was evaluated, in which F4 and F5 obtained the best results; for antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028) strains, F4, F5 and F6 had the best inhibition halos; characterization by SEM revealed that F5 and F6 resulted in microcapsules with a more uniform shape and surface; the evaluation for degradation and compatibility by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), revealed homogeneity and compatibility for formulations F4 and F5.In this way, it was possible to conclude that the encapsulation technique is promising, allowing the successful development of the study, in addition to offering a basis to expand the scope of the research.

5
  • MIGUEL ANGEL MARTINEZ GUTIERREZ
  • Use of semiochemicals in trophic interaction in pest management

  • Advisor : ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • HENRIQUE FONSECA GOULART
  • MANUEL ALEJANDRO IX BALAM
  • MARIA FERNANDA GOMES VILLALBA PENAFLOR
  • MERYBETH FERNANDEZ TRIANA
  • TIAGO CARDOSO DA COSTA LIMA
  • Data: Sep 17, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • The present study entitled "Study of trophic interactions for the management of Diaphania hyalinata and Liriomyza sativae in cucurbit crops" describes the detailed analysis of the interactions between these two pests and Cucurbitcaceae plants to develop more effective management strategies. Below is a summary of each chapter that makes up this research. This thesis is composed of seven chapters. The first chapter establishes the research context, highlighting the economic and agricultural importance of cucurbit crops worldwide. It also presents the main pests studied, such as Diaphania hyalinata and Liriomyza sativae,  describing the negative impacts on Cucurbitaceae crops. Chapter 2 deals with the collection and analysis of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) from Liriomyza sativae and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from melon (Cucumis melo) and jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis) plants, highlighting the difference in cuticular hydrocarbon profiles between male and female insects. Volatile compounds, including aldehydes and ketones, essential for communication between insects and their host plants, were identified and tested in olfactometry bioassays. In Chapter 3, we analyzed the chromatographic profile of VOCs from male and female insects of the moth D. hyalinata, showing that females released more VOCs than males. In addition, the compound (Z,Z)-10,12-Hexadecadienal, previously reported as a component of the pheromone and present in VOCs collected from female insects, was identified. Chapter 4 reports the study of annatto seeds (Bixa orellana) and their potential use in developing pest control products. Different extraction techniques and solvents are examined, and their efficacy in obtaining active compounds such as Geranylgeraniol is compared. Chapter 5 analyzes VOC data from different cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) genotypes. The experimental design and methodology used for collecting and analysing VOCs are discussed, highlighting the importance of these data for understanding the variation of VOCs emitted by cowpea genotypes. Chapter 6: The use of cis-jasmone as an inducer of resistance in cowpea plants against the black aphid (Aphis craccivora) is evaluated, including studies on the collection of volatile compounds and the effects on the biology of the aphid. Chapter 7. The last chapter comprehensively reviews insect pheromones that affect stored grains, discussing current findings and their implications for managing these pests.

     
     
     
6
  • ADÉLIA REGINA OLIVEIRA DA ROSA SANTANA
  • DEVELOPMENT OF A TECHNIQUE FOR DIAGNOSIS AND
    TREATMENT OF MUSCULAR DISORDERS OF THE PELVIC FLOOR
    USING THE VESTIBULOCERVICAL REFLEX.

  • Advisor : PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • KRISTIANA CERQUEIRA MOUSINHO FONSECA
  • LICIA SANTOS SANTANA
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • RUBNEIDE BARRETO SILVA GALLO
  • Data: Oct 4, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • Knowing that female sexual dysfunctions are included in pelvic floor
    dysfunctions and are considered a public health problem by the World Health
    Organization, it proposed to develop technological resources in search of a
    diagnostic test for these changes in pelvic floor tone, combining
    electromyography and the vestibular evoked myogenic potential.
    Furthermore, considering the lack of an endovaginal probe type electrode that
    could facilitate and capture the stimulation of muscle potentials, the need to
    create a device for this purpose was perceived. Therefore, a patent was
    developed characterized by comprising an adjustable system for an
    endovaginal probe type electrode for capturing and stimulating muscle
    potentials. As well as an industrial design composed of a probe-type
    electrode that has an applicator body, an opening adjustment, three units of
    petals, an expansion sphere, a data cable, a sensor and a threaded rod for
    expanding the petals according to the channel. vaginal, in addition to a
    systematic review with the aim of demonstrating the effectiveness of
    electromyographic biofeedback compared to other physiotherapeutic
    resources used in the treatment of women with sexual dysfunction. The
    invention patent and the industrial design represented by the endovaginal
    probe, represents a promising instrument in the use of electrostimulation
    and/or biofeedback equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic floor
    muscle dysfunctions, providing better capture and stimulation of the pelvic
    floor muscles for professionals of the rehabilitation area. The systematic
    review under development, three articles were included for methodological
    quality using the Cochrane tool to assess the risk of bias for further
    discussion.

7
  • CAMILA CHAVES DOS SANTOS NOVAIS
  • VESTIBULAR MYOGENIC EVOKED POTENTIAL IN MEN WITH
    PROSTATECTOMIZED URINARY INCONTINENCE: DEVELOPMENT
    OF A DIAGNOSTIC TEST AND TREATMENT PROTOCOL.

  • Advisor : PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • KRISTIANA CERQUEIRA MOUSINHO FONSECA
  • LICIA SANTOS SANTANA
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • RUBNEIDE BARRETO SILVA GALLO
  • Data: Oct 4, 2024


  • Show Abstract
  • Prostate cancer is the second cancer that most affects men, in Brazil it is only
    behind non-melanoma skin cancer, in absolute values and considering both
    sexes, it occupies the fourth place. In early stages, it is a disease curable
    through surgical procedures, such as radical prostatectomy, the most used and
    that presents highly satisfactory results, but triggers complications such as
    urinary incontinence, causing great impact in the psychological, physical,
    social spheres. economic and sexual, compromising the patient&#39;s quality of
    life. Conservative treatment, physical therapy, for urinary incontinence has
    gained more space for not causing side effects, for promoting speed in
    recovery through training of the pelvic floor muscles, the muscles responsible
    for urethral closure. It also has resources that provide better motor learning
    and patient comfort in the rehabilitation process. In the search for more
    affordable devices, which provide more celerity in achieving the therapeutic
    objective, the innovative possibility of applying vestibular evoked myogenic
    potential applied to the pelvic floor to evaluate and rehabilitate the muscle
    function responsible for urinary continence. The present research was divided
    into three stages: the first, the technological development of the device
    capable of capturing the electrophysiological response of the pelvic floor that
    can be connected to the vestibular evoked myogenic potential device: a utility
    model patent and industrial design; second stage that is in progress, a
    systematic review on the impact of the use of electromyographic
    biofeedback, one of the most used resources, applied in the rehabilitation of
    prostatectomized men with urinary incontinence and third stage, which will
    be carried out: clinical research on the use of vestibular evoked myogenic
    potential for evaluation and treatment applied to the pelvic floor in men with
    post-prostatectomy incontinence.

2023
Thesis
1
  • JULIANO BUENO BARBOSA DA SILVA
  • FILAMENTAL FUNGI AND THEIR METABOLITES: RESEARCH OF CORROSION INHIBITION POTENTIAL

     
  • Advisor : JOSEALDO TONHOLO
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • JOSEALDO TONHOLO
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • EDSON DE SOUZA BENTO
  • IRAILDES PEREIRA ASSUNCAO
  • CARMEM LUCIA DE PAIVA E SILVA ZANTA
  • MARIA APARECIDA MEDEIROS MACIEL
  • SONIA SALGUEIRO MACHADO
  • Data: Feb 27, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Corrosion of metallic structures is a serious economic problem that affects the entire planet. It is estimated that in Brazil, the amount spent on corrosion damage, whether to replace structures compromised by corrosion, restore damaged parts or even in accidents caused by corrosion of metallic structures, reach an average of 4% of the national GDP. It is therefore extremely harmful to the public purse. In addition, not only the public sector, but also the private sector suffers great losses resulting from this natural phenomenon. Corrosion is understood as the reverse process to metallurgy, where in this phenomenon, metallic structures are again converted to ores, which in the case of iron, one of the metals that suffer most corrosion in the world, reacts with the oxygen present in the air to form assorted nox iron oxides. It has already been observed in previous works that some filamentous fungi have the ability to partially or totally inhibit the corrosion of metallic structures, thus opening up a range of opportunities for the discovery of new formulations for a new natural type of corrosion inhibitor to based on fungal extracts, so far unpublished in the literature, which may in the future replace heavy metal-based inhibitors, which are extremely harmful to the environment. In this work, the corrosion potential of CA-50 carbon steel samples in an environment of calcium hydroxide containing chloride ions in the presence of two types of filamentous fungi: fusarium solani and penicillium oxalicum is studied. Initially, strains CCT2876 and CCT4815 of the fungi fusarium solani, and penicillium oxalicum, respectively, were obtained, both by reactivation through purchase by the André Tosello Foundation. The fungi were then subcultured on potato-dextrose-agar medium for culture maintenance, and after 30 days of growth, they were recultured on potato-dextrose medium. After 60 days of cultivation without agitation at a temperature of 26ºC in the absence of light, the biomaterial obtained was separated by vacuum filtration, and the solid part was removed from moisture through a desiccator for four days. The liquid filtrate from the cultures of the two fungi was then submitted to PCA tests and Tafel extrapolation curves, in order to measure their inhibitory potential.

     
2
  • VALDEMIR DA COSTA SILVA
  • DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYMERIC MEMBRANES ASSOCIATED WITH RED PROPOLIS AND ALOIN WITH HEALING POTENTIAL
     
     
  • Advisor : MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • IRINALDO DINIZ BASILIO JUNIOR
  • ISIS MARTINS FIGUEIREDO
  • JADRIANE DE ALMEIDA XAVIER
  • MARIA APARECIDA MEDEIROS MACIEL
  • Data: Apr 27, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Chronic skin lesions, such as burns, ulcers or other traumatic injuries, represent a health problem that affects millions of people around the world and causes strong social and economic damage. In the last twenty years, biocompatible, biodegradable, and bioabsorbable polymers are the most used for the development of membranes for wound healing. Natural polymers such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-Na) and pectin are carriers of bioactive compounds and have a high swelling capacity. The incorporation of natural products such as red propolis and aloin in membranes is a relevant strategy to enhance wound healing. Red propolis and aloin have several biological activities, such as antioxidant, healing, anti-inflammatory and tissue repair. Thus, the present work aimed to develop and characterize polymeric membranes associated with red propolis and/or aloin. Extraction by maceration was used to obtain the hydroalcoholic extract of red propolis at 30% (w/v). The membranes (membrane + red propolis - MPV; membrane + aloin - MALO and membrane + red propolis + aloin - MPVALO) were obtained with a previous preparation of a carboxymethylcellulose and pectin gel, followed by the association of the hydroalcoholic extract of red propolis and/ or aloin. The extracts and polymeric membranes were evaluated to obtain the phytochemical profile by UPLC-DAD, the antioxidant activity by DPPH methods and by FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power). The determination of total phenols and flavonoids was performed by the colorimetric method of Folin-Ciocalteau and aluminum chloride, respectively. Membranes associated with red propolis and aloin were evaluated for their decomposition and compatibility by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Membrane morphology was obtained by scanning electron microscopy. The degree of swelling and the release profile were determined in saline solution. The extracts and membranes were evaluated for antimicrobial activity by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and cell viability in L929 fibroblast lineage. The polymeric membranes presented similar macroscopic morphological characteristics such as: uniformity, flexibility, and resistance to handling. The chromatographic method allowed the identification of chemo markers of red propolis and aloin A and B. Phenolic compounds contents of 174.2 ± 2.0 and 79.1 ± 2.5 mgGAE g were respectively found in the red propolis and aloin extract -1 and total flavonoids of 46.2 ± 3.2 and 9.9 ± 3.7 mgQE g-1. The combined extracts showed high antioxidant activity: 91.2 ± 2.7% (red propolis extract) and 63.1 ± 2.5% (aloin) by the DPPH method and iron reducer. Membranes loaded with extracts showed reduced antioxidant activity. Thermal analysis of the membranes by differential scanning calorimetry and infrared spectroscopy by Fourier transform revealed the homogeneity of the membrane with red propolis and aloin. MPVALO showed less homogeneity and greater thermal stability. The morphological assay revealed that the membranes had a smooth surface with foci of depression. The association of red propolis and aloin accelerates swelling and decreases the stability of the polymeric chain. Polymeric membranes release approximately 60% of the incorporated extract within 48 hours. The extracts and the association of red propolis + aloin showed relevant antimicrobial activity against the Staphylococcus aureus strain. MPVALO showed greater halo formation against gram-positive bacteria. MALO showed cytotoxicity (125 µg/mL) and MPVALO showed 99.6% preservation of fibroblasts at a concentration of 125 µg/mL. On this context, it is possible to state that MPVALO is an important biodegradable, non-cytotoxic product, capable of forming a physical barrier, promoting the absorption of exudate and release of phenolic compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.

3
  • ADSO LEVI SOARES DE FIGUEIREDO MENDES
  • Molecular characterization and development of a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for rapid diagnosis of a new badnavirus associated with air yam (Dioscorea bulbifera L.). 

  • Advisor : GAUS SILVESTRE DE ANDRADE LIMA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • GAUS SILVESTRE DE ANDRADE LIMA
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • SARAH JACQUELINE CAVALCANTI DA SILVA
  • PAULO ROBERTO GAGLIARDI
  • ROBERTO RAMOS SOBRINHO
  • Data: Jun 22, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Yams (Dioscorea spp.) are important staple crops cultivated worldwide, and air yam (Dioscorea bulbifera) is among the 12 commercially grown species. The productivity and safe germplasm exchange of Dioscorea spp. are hindered by several pests and diseases, and viruses pose a significant threat especially due to the vegetative propagation of yams that propitiate viral accumulation and dissemination. At least eight viral families have been reported infecting yams. The family Caulimoviridae comprises 11 genera, of which Badnavirus is widespread wherever yams are planted, and badnaviral transmission occurs mainly by vegetative propagation and different species of mealybugs. A putative new badnavirus has been recently reported in D. bulbifera plants in Brazil, and tentatively named as dioscorea bacilliform BL virus (DBBLV), but only partial sequences of the reverse transcriptase (RT) and ribonuclease H (RNase H) genomic region have been characterized. To recover the complete genome sequence of DBBLV isolates, total DNA obtained from an DBBLV-infected air yam plant was used as template for enrichment of viral circular DNA via rolling circle amplification and subjected to high-throughput Illumina sequencing. Two complete badnavirus-like genomes of 7,196 (DBBLV-DBH1) and 7,342 (DBBLV-DBH3) bp in size were de novo assembled from 1,273,444 and 539,840 reads and a coverage depth of 177 and 74x, respectively. Both isolates belong to the species novel Dioscorea bacilliform BL virus, sharing ≥88% nucleotide identity with at least one isolate of DBBLV deposited in GenBank. The recombination analysis showed a complex interspecies recombination pattern involving the DBBLV-DBH1 and DBBLV-DBH3 isolates as putative recombinant or parental sequences in four independent recombination events. The Bayesian phylogenetic tree reconstructed based on complete genome and RT-RNase H nucleotide sequences showed the new DBBLV isolates were more closely related to dioscorea bacilliform AL virus (DBALV) sequences, but some topological incongruences were observed between these two trees, probably caused by recombination.

4
  • ANALÚ CAMPOS REIS
  •  

     

    Identification and synthesis of semiochemicals involved in the communication of Atheloca subrufella (Hulst) (Lepidoptera: Phycitidae) and Anthonomus grandis Boheman (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

  • Advisor : ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • ALINE CAVALCANTI DE QUEIROZ
  • ANIELLE CHRISTINE ALMEIDA SILVA
  • HENRIQUE FONSECA GOULART
  • DANIELA MARIA DO AMARAL FERRAZ NAVARRO
  • JOHNNATAN DUARTE DE FREITAS
  • Data: Jun 23, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Brazil is a country with a large agricultural production and is very diversified, but among
    the major economically relevant crops are cotton and Arecaceae. Insect pests are increasingly
    important for cultivation, especially in large areas of homogeneous plantations such as
    Arecaceae and cotton, causing a reduction in productivity. The Anthonomus grandis Boheman
    (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), known as cotton weevil, in its larval stage, develops inside the
    flower buds, leading to losses in the cotton crop. This reduction in productivity is observed and
    gradually increases if severe control measures are not taken. Atheloca subrufella (Hulst)
    (Lepidoptera: Phycitidae), known as the coconut moth, causes damage to the plant when in
    the larval stage, it feeds on the fruit's mesocarp, preventing the flow of sap, and causing it to fall
    prematurely, thus reducing the productivity of the coconut tree. The use of sprays with
    insecticides to control these pests is not efficient, since they lodge mainly inside the plant/fruit
    and insecticides are not able to reach them and are not recommended. Semiochemicals are
    presented as an efficient and sustainable control method. Thus, this work aimed to synthesize
    the semiochemicals of these insects.A. grandis already has its pheromonal mixture identified
    and in commercial use, consisting of four compounds:(+)-cis-2-isopropenyl-1-methyl-
    cyclobutane-ethanol (Grandisol); (Z)-3,3-dimethylcyclohexylidene-ethanol (Grandlure II); (E)-
    3,3-dimethylcyclohexylideneacetaldehyde (GrandlureIII);and(Z)-3,3-
    dimethylcyclohexylidene-acetaldehyde (GrandlureIV). Grandlures II, III and IV were obtained
    by a single synthetic route, in just three steps, through an α,β-unsaturated intermediate, [(E,Z)-
    ethyl-2-(3,3-dimethylcyclohexylidene)], formed by the Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction.
    The alcohol was obtained through reduction with lithium aluminium hydride and the aldehydes,
    from the oxidation of the alcohol with PCC, with an overall yield of 82.4%. In the study of the
    Chemical Ecology of A. subrufella, two compounds produced by females were identified that
    showed activity in the CG-EAD in front of male antennae. Through GC-MS analysis these
    compounds were proposed as 6,9-dimethyltetradecane and 6,10-dimethylhexadecane. 13-
    methylheptacosane was indicated as the major component in the cuticular extracts of female A.
    subrufella. For the synthesis of this molecule, a route containing seven steps was proposed,
    using Grignard reactions as a strategy for elongating the carbon chain and inserting the branch
    at position 13, obtaining an overall yield of 4.26% in seven steps. The proposed routes proved
    to be effective for obtaining the five target molecules.

5
  • THASSIA CASADO LIMA FRANÇA
  • Sportomics analyses by mass spectrometry in urine of soccer players

     

  • Advisor : ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ALINE CAVALCANTI DE QUEIROZ
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • DANIEL DE MELO SILVA
  • EDUARDO SEIXAS PRADO
  • HENRIQUE FONSECA GOULART
  • KARLOS ANTONIO LISBOA RIBEIRO JUNIOR
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • Data: Jun 27, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Sportomics is the use of “-omics” sciences in conjunction with classical clinical laboratory analysis to understand exercise-induced changes. This approach is developed in a scenario where samples, usually blood and urine, are collected in loco, directly on the competition and training fields, simulating the real challenges and conditions faced during sports performances. The use of undirected analysis (NTA) by mass spectrometry offers possibilities for a better understanding of metabolic changes in a given scenario (eg, pre/post exercise). In addition, it can help in the discovery of relevant biomarkers in sports practice. From the point of view of energy metabolism, a soccer match involves anaerobic and aerobic activities. The present study aimed to analyze before/after metabolic alterations in the urine of soccer players. 30 semi-professional male soccer players participated in the study. Urine samples were collected immediately before and after a soccer match. The analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Metabolites were classified according to class and superclass through the human metabolome database (HMDB) platform. Metabolic pathways were analyzed using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. 1091 metabolites were identified and established whether they were up or down-regulated. The most prominent molecules regulated were fatty acyls, carboxylic acids and derivatives, steroids and steroid derivatives. The least regulated molecules were fatty acyls, benzene and substituted derivatives. It has been shown that metabolites derived from branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) decreased after exercise. In addition, the presence of hawkinsin, 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid and 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, metabolites characteristic of a genetic disease called hawkinsinuria, was demonstrated, which suggests an exercise-induced hawkinsinuria. The importance of on-field metabolic analysis using urine is proposed as a non-invasive way to understand and monitor athletes' metabolism holistically. NTA can engineer individual metabolic signatures to improve athletic performance.

6
  • AMYLLY SANUELLY DA PAZ MARTINS
  • a corrigir

  • Advisor : MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • FABIANA ANDREA MOURA
  • JADRIANE DE ALMEIDA XAVIER
  • LUCIANA APARECIDA CORA
  • MANOEL ALVARO DE FREITAS LINS NETO
  • MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • MARISA ANDREIA CARVALHO DE FREITAS
  • Data: Jul 27, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), primarily represented by Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), in addition to genetic factors, involve altered immune response and oxidative stress as potential etiological agents. Given the limitations and side effects associated with traditional pharmacological therapy, the investigation of complementary antioxidant therapies has been the focus of various research studies. Among these alternatives, the use of turmeric (Curcuma longa), a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, stands out. However, turmeric exhibits limited bioavailability, which can be enhanced when combined with piperine, found in black pepper (Piper nigrum), thereby demonstrating promising results. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of oral supplementation with curcumin extract and piperine on the inflammatory and oxidative profiles in patients with IBD. It was conducted as a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial in the colorectal department of Professor Alberto Antunes University Hospital in Maceió, AL, Brazil. The patients were randomly assigned to the following groups: curcumin (1000 mg/day), curcumin (1000 mg/day) + piperine (10 mg/day), or placebo, for a period of three months. Personal, socioeconomic, clinical, body composition, and muscle strength data were collected, along with blood samples for analysis of oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cytokines. Disease activity was assessed through fecal calprotectin levels. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 26.0, employing tests such as General Linear Model (repeated measures), Multinomial Logistic Regression (repeated measures), and Generalized Estimating Equations, adjusted for sex, age, and type of IBD. Within-group comparisons between baseline and endpoint measurements were conducted using chi-square/Fisher's exact test for frequency evaluations and ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test for mean comparisons. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The supplementation with curcumin, compared to the placebo group, significantly improved the percentage of adequacy of brachial circumference (p = 0.042; OR: 0.171; 0.031-0.935) and hydration (p < 0.047). On the other hand, patients in the curcumin + piperine group experienced a significant increase in lean body mass (p = 0.023; OR: 5.00; 1.196-2.910) and lean body mass index (p < 0.015; OR: 6.286, 95% CI), in addition to a positive impact on phase angle (p < 0.028). Among the markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, only superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were positively influenced in patients receiving curcumin + piperine (p < 0.039). Therefore, this clinical trial demonstrated that oral supplementation with curcumin (1000 mg/day) + piperine (10 mg/day) for three months was effective in improving muscle composition and cellular integrity, while also elevating SOD levels. Thus, its use may not only improve the oxidative profile of these patients but also aid in their nutritional recovery.

7
  • SUELLEN MARIA ALBUQUERQUE DA SILVA
  • Evaluation of Leishmanicidal and Antitumor Activity of new Synthetic Anthraquinonic Derivatives.

  • Advisor : MAGNA SUZANA ALEXANDRE MOREIRA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • MAGNA SUZANA ALEXANDRE MOREIRA
  • JOAO XAVIER DE ARAUJO JUNIOR
  • ALINE CAVALCANTI DE QUEIROZ
  • TIAGO GOMES DE ANDRADE
  • CAMILA BRAGA DORNELAS
  • JOHNNATAN DUARTE DE FREITAS
  • Data: Aug 28, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Leishmaniasis are diseases caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania transmitted through infected sandfly vectors. They are endemic in 98 countries and the population at risk of infection is estimated at 350 million. Glioma is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide (75% of malignant brain tumors), its most aggressive form is Glioblastoma, with a worldwide incidence of 3.21/100,000 individuals. The treatment adopted in both cases presents a series of adverse events, contraindications and significant toxicity, which can lead the patient to death. The quinone class can develop activities in more than one segment, due to its structure acting as a multi-target therapeutic, a promising group for trials in both therapies. This study proposes to investigate the leishmanicidal and antitumor activity of new synthetic anthraquinone derivatives (DSAQs). For this, nine DSAQs were developed and provided by the Organic Synthesis Laboratory – UFMG and by the Electrochemistry Laboratory LEQUI/UFAL.The in vitro toxicity assay was carried out by the MTT method, on macrophages of the J774.A1 lineage, to evaluate the DSAQs. Leishmanicidal activity was evaluated by in vitro parasite viability assay on extracellular promastigotes of Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania chagasi. The evaluation of antitumor activity was performed through cell viability assays on Glioblastomas of the GBM02 lineage, using the MTT method. The cytotoxic effect assay on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was performed. Subsequently, the most promising DSAQs were submitted to the following assays: morphological analysis and cell migration. All assays were performed at the Laboratory of Pharmacology and Immunity (LaFI/ICBS/UFAL). In the MTT assay, DSAQs did not reduce 50% of the cell population. Regarding the promastigote assay, ENSJ841, 848, 849 and 854 showed a statistical reduction in parasite viability for Leishmania chagasi, with IC50 between 2.83 ± 0.29 and 71.33 ± 4.04 µM, and ENSJ849, 851 and 854, for Leishmania amazonensis species, with IC50 between 21.33 ± 4.04 and 72.00 ± 7.00 µM. In GBM02 cell viability, ENSJ650, 845, 848 and 854 showed tumor reduction after 72 hours of treatment. DSAQs were not cytotoxic to PBMC. After these assays, only the DSAQs that showed reduction of GBM02 cells, proceeded to the morphology assays, and showed signs of cell death with the presence of cells with rounded cytoplasm, cellular debris, cytoplasmic vacuoles with leakage of contents by membrane rupture. These selected DSAQs, in the cell migration assay, were able to inhibit it, and the percentage of migrated cells ranged from 16 to 51.85%. In view of the results, it is possible to affirm that the DSAQs induce a leishmanicidal and antitumor action, corroborating with the multitherapeutic action of quinone derivatives and in the research of new drugs in both areas.

8
  • JOICE FRAGOSO OLIVEIRA DE ARAUJO
  • Evaluation of the cytotoxic activity of substances isolated from the monofloral bee pollen of Mimosa pudica in a Human Glioblastoma strain (GBM02)

  • Advisor : MAGNA SUZANA ALEXANDRE MOREIRA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ALINE CAVALCANTI DE QUEIROZ
  • LUIZ HENRIQUE AGRA CAVALCANTE SILVA
  • MAGNA SUZANA ALEXANDRE MOREIRA
  • TANIA MARIA SARMENTO DA SILVA
  • TIAGO GOMES DE ANDRADE
  • Data: Sep 21, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a type of malignant tumour of the Central Nervous System and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. The treatment forpatients affected with GBM allows a survival rate of approximately fifteen months. In this sense, it is necessary to search for new prototypes of drugs capable of enabling the cure, or a longer survival of patients affected by this pathology. Bee pollen from Mimosa pudica Linn. It has a rich chemical composition, with the presence of bioactive compounds. The present study aims to evaluate the in vitro antitumor activity of amentoflavone, rusflavone and spermidine derivatives isolated from Mimosa pudica monofloral bee pollen on human glioblastoma cells (GBM02). Initially, to evaluate the effects of the isolated substances on the viability of GBM02 and blood mononuclear cells (monocytes and lymphocytes), the MTT colorimetric assay was used. Then, the selectivity of the derivatives was calculated using the ratio between the cytotoxic concentrations for 50% of monocytes and lymphocytes (CC50) and the inhibitory concentrations for 50% of GBM02 (IC50). The morphological analyzes of GBM02 were performed using optical microscopy. To obtain the migration percentage, the scratch assay evaluated the anti-migratory effect on GBM02 after treatment with the substances isolated by microphotographs. Results were expressed as the mean ± e.p.m. and statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett's post-test, with significant p-value *p<0.05, **p<0.01, ***p<0.001, when compared to the control. The bioflavonoids amentoflavone and rusflavone and the spermidine derivatives (1) and (2) inhibited the viability of GBM02, with an IC50 of 60.16 ± 4.01**** for amentoflavone, 59.16 ± 4.25*** * for rusflavone, 46.50 ± 1.50**** for spermidine derivative (1) and 59.83 ± 5.75**** for spermidine derivative (2). Amentoflavone, rusflavone and spermidine derivatives (1) and (2) were not toxic for monocytes and lymphocytes at the tested concentrations. Amentoflavone (SI > 1.66), rusflavone (SI > 1.69), spermidine derivative (1) (SI > 2.15) and spermidine derivative (2) (SI > 1.67) were more selective for GBM02 than for monocytes and lymphocytes. Amentoflavone, rusflavone and spermidine derivatives (1) and (2) caused morphological changes in GBM02, with the appearance of cells with rounded cytoplasm, atypical morphology, and formation of cytoplasmic vacuoles. In the Scratch test, it was possible to observe that the substances influenced the migration of GBM02, with migration inhibition percentages of 93.48% for spermidine derivative (1), 92.33% for rusflavone, 89.14% for amentoflavone and 78 .37% for spermidine derivative (2). Given the results, it was possible to observe that the substances had antitumor potential against the GBM02 lineage for Human Glioblastoma, demonstrating that they are strong candidates for use in the development of antitumor products, with a perspective for the development of new, more in-depth studies.

9
  • JHONY WILLAMS GUSMÃO DO NASCIMENTO
  • TREATMENT WITH LIRAGLUTIDE IN VITRO AND IN VIVO: CELLULAR EFFECTS, ON GASTROINTESTINAL MOTILITY AND ON THE INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE OF INTESTINAL EPITHELIAL TISSUE OF RATS.

  • Advisor : LUCIANA APARECIDA CORA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • LUCIANA APARECIDA CORA
  • GUILHERME BENJAMIN BRANDAO PITTA
  • JOSE RICARDO DE ARRUDA MIRANDA
  • EDOARDA VASCO DE ALBUQUERQUE ALBUQUERQUE
  • FERNANDO GOMES ROMEIRO
  • Data: Nov 3, 2023


  • Show Abstract
  • Obesity is a chronic disease, characterized by a state of acute low-grade inflammation, which affects gastrointestinal permeability and motility, and the action of cytokines in this scenario is little reported. Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog that induces weight loss by different mechanisms involving the gastrointestinal tract. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Liraglutide on intestinal epithelial cells in vitro and on metabolic, morpho-functional, and inflammatory parameters in the gastrointestinal tract of rats with obesity. Methods: In the in vitro assay, IEC-6 cells were treated with concentrations from 0.25 to 100 µM of Liraglutide and evaluated for cell viability, cell death by apoptosis and necrosis, morphological analysis, actin cytoskeletal reorganization and assay of cell migration for wound healing. In the in vivo assay, Wistar rats with obesity were randomly assigned to receive saline solution, 400 or 1200 µg Liraglutide/kg/day subcutaneously for 30 consecutive days, once a day. Weight gain, feed efficiency, caloric intake, gastric motility, adiposity, histomorphometric, murinometric, and biochemical parameters were evaluated before and after treatment. Results: There was no change in the viability of cells treated with Liraglutide at concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 μM; moreover, drug treatment decreased the rate of apoptosis of IEC-6 cells relative to control. Treated cells showed a modified actin cytoskeleton, with prominent stress fibers and decreased cell migration. The effects of Liraglutide in treated animals were dose-dependent. The dose of 1200 µg/day/kg provided lower feed efficiency and lower caloric intake, with slower gastric emptying and lower amplitude of gastric contractions. Gastrointestinal effects were accompanied by reductions in muscle layer thickness and crypt depth. Liraglutide reduced retroperitoneal and visceral adipose tissue deposits, decreased TNF-α levels, and increased TGF-β1 levels. There was a reduction in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and liver transaminases. Conclusion: Liraglutide directly affected intestinal cells, decreasing the rate of apoptosis, and the disposition of the actin cytoskeleton, reducing cell migration. In rats, it reduced fat accumulation, improved metabolic parameters, and minimized the expression of inflammatory signaling in the gastrointestinal tract.

2022
Thesis
1
  • LAYS NOGUEIRA MIRANDA
  • CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND BIOACTIVITY OF THE ESSENTIAL OILS FROM CROTON TRICOLOR KLOTZSCH EX BAILL (EUPHORBIACEAE)
  • Advisor : LUCIANO APARECIDO MEIRELES GRILLO
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • FRANCIS SOARES GOMES
  • KARLOS ANTONIO LISBOA RIBEIRO JUNIOR
  • LUCIANO APARECIDO MEIRELES GRILLO
  • RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • TICIANO GOMES DO NASCIMENTO
  • Data: Mar 7, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Essential oils (EO) are secondary metabolites derived from aromatic plants,
    composed of complex mixtures of chemical components, such as phenols,
    aldehydes, hydrocarbons and others, and, due to their highly volatile nature, are
    less likely to leave residues in stored products, representing minimal risk to the
    environment and health. With the knowledge about these adaptive processes
    present in plants, humanity started to explore these physiological adjustments as
    a source of useful bioactive compounds to combat pest insects that cause
    considerable losses in agricultural production. Tribolium castaneum Herbst.
    (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) is one of the stored products pests recognized for
    having one of the greatest population growth potentials among these insects.
    Thus, this study aims to evaluate the insecticidal and repellent potential of Croton
    tricolor Klotzsch ex Baill against Tribolium castaneum. The essential oils of leaves
    and branches of C. tricolor were obtained by hydrodistillation in Clevenger
    equipment and the chemical characterization will be carried out by gas
    chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (CG-EM). The evaluation of the
    repellency potential was developed based on the area preference method and a
    contact toxicity bioassay was carried out with concentrations of 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and
    10% of leaves EO and 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20% of branches EO. The effects of EO
    on nutritional indexes and on the metabolism of T. castaneum after exposure to
    LD50 were evaluated. The C. tricolor EO showed a yield of 0.20% for branches
    and 0.66% for leaves and showed repellency potential (RP) against T. castaneum
    at all times of exposure, with a RP class ranging from IV to V, being the essential
    oil of C. tricolor leaves (EOCTL) responsible for higher RP, obtaining class V in
    30 and 60 minutes after exposure. The contact toxicity tests resulted in an LD50
    of 2.193 μg / adult for the essential oil of C. tricolor branches (EOCTB) and 0.923
    μg / adult for EOCTL and a reduction in the nutritional index of food conversion
    efficiency, associated with a marked reduction in cholesterol levels. Exposure to
    EOCTB caused a 79.7% inhibition of reproduction (p <0.05). The partial results
    of this study point out that C. tricolor EO are promising alternatives for the control
    of the insect pest T. castaneum in stored products and suggest that these EO act
    as inhibitors of sterol transport proteins, which may be one mechanisms of action
    to promote the insecticidal potential of these oils.

2
  • JEINNY CHRISTINE GOMES DOS SANTOS
  • Evaluation of new release materials for volatile compounds attractive to fruit flies

  • Advisor : RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • JOÃO GOMES DA COSTA
  • IARA BARROS VALENTIM
  • IARA SORDI JOACHIM BRAVO
  • Data: Mar 23, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • The lignocellulosic fibrous biomass found in sugarcane bagasse can be the raw material to produce cellulosic ethanol, through delignification processes to obtain fermentative sugars. The residue from this process is called black liquor, which is rich in lignin, an amorphous biopolymer with high energy value used mainly as fuel in the cogeneration of energy in bio-industries. As lignin is a biodegradable and therefore recyclable by-product, it has been attracting interest in areas such as medicine, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. In agriculture, lignin is being studied as a coating for fertilizers and as a biopolymer carrying active compounds (pesticides and semiochemicals) for pest control. As the object of this study, lignin was used as a biopolymeric matrix carrying substances attractive to fruit flies of the species Ceratitis capitata and Anastrepha fraterculus. The attractive substances studied were: ethyl octanoate, an attractive semiochemical for fruit fly species; a mixture of synthetic compounds common to guava host volatiles and volatiles released by males of Ceratitis capitata, composed of (R)-(+)-limonene, (S)-(-)-limonene, ethyl octanoate, αcopaene and β-caryophyllene; and hexane extracts of volatiles obtained by the host fruit guava (Psidium guajava, L.). Release substrates based on crude lignin (BL) were prepared, namely: acid lignin (LA) and a hybrid (LQ), lignin and chitosan in a 1:1 mass ratio. Chitosan (Q) was used as a control treatment. All substrates were subjected to thermogravimetric techniques, infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy to investigate the adsorbent potential when impregnated with semiochemicals. Thermogravimetric isotherms at 30°C, together with solid phase microextractions were also performed, aiming to know the release kinetics of substrate+semiochemical systems. The extracts obtained were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Attractiveness bioassays with mated females of C. capitata and A. fraterculus were carried out to evaluate which system elicits attraction behavior in females of these species. Thermogravimetric tests (TG, DTG and DSC) with pure substrates, containing lignin, LB, LP and LQ, demonstrated greater thermal stability than substrate Q, and when impregnated with semiochemicals, all showed a mass loss around 70 %. The FTIR analysis showed characteristic bands of polymers and substances incorporated in the substrates. The images obtained by SEM revealed porous agglomerates on substrates containing lignin and a smooth and homogeneous surface on chitosan, which has already been described in the literature. The release isotherms showed mass losses around 30% (±1%). In the extracts of substrates impregnated with ethyl octanoate, evaluated by GCEM, a larger relative area of the ester in the LA substrate is observed, like the LQ hybrid, at the end of the release period. Behavioral bioassays revealed that the substrate formulations with LA, elicited greater attractiveness in mated females of the studied species. From the above, it is possible to conclude that lignin-based polymeric matrices can be used as attractive semiochemical carriers for fruit flies.

3
  • ANDRESSA LETICIA LOPES DA SILVA

  • EVALUATION OF ANTITUMOR ACTIVITY OF GUANYLIDRAZONE DERIVATIVES IN HUMAN GLIOBLASTOMA LINEAGE (GBM02)

  • Advisor : JOAO XAVIER DE ARAUJO JUNIOR
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • JOAO XAVIER DE ARAUJO JUNIOR
  • LUCIANO APARECIDO MEIRELES GRILLO
  • MAGNA SUZANA ALEXANDRE MOREIRA
  • ALINE CAVALCANTI DE QUEIROZ
  • ELITA SCIO FONTES
  • MARIANA DA SILVA SANTOS
  • Data: Jun 22, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  •  

    Cancer is considered a public health problem and can be associated with the four main causes of death in the world. The number of new cases grows progressively, highlighting the need for treatments with low cost and high curative rate. Among the types of cancer that are most aggressive are gliomas. Gliomas are considered one of the main types of central nervous system tumors. They originate from glial cells and are the most common glioblastoma in adults. Due to its high molecular heterogeneity and a large number of genetic mutations, the development of specific target prototypes is necessary. Guanylhydrazones belong to the class of hydrazones, which are characterized by the presence of the imine group linked to an amine and are considered more stable, presenting several activities in the literature, such as antitumor activity against leukemia, melanoma, lung, kidney and colon cancer. New researches using guanylhydrazones against human glioblastoma are being developed, since the number of researches focused on this lineage is still not expressive. The present work aims to evaluate the in vitro antitumor activity of guanylhydrazone derivatives in human glioblastoma cells. To assess the antitumor effect of guanylhydrazones, the MTT test was performed with GBM02 cells, where the positive control was Temozolamide (TMZ). Cells were treated with different concentrations of derivatives for 48 hours. For the study on morphology, the GBM02 cells were plated and adhered to cover slips, with TMZ as a positive control and DMSO 0.1% as a negative control. As a result of the in vitro antitumor activity against GBM02, the derivatives that showed the best IC50 were LQM 240 with 3.54 µM followed by LQM 243 with 4.15 µM. Regarding the inhibitory effect, all compounds in the series had a cytotoxic effect greater than 70%, except for LQM 242 which had an effect of 42.92% in 48 hours. Regarding morphology, LQM 14 and LQM 243 derivatives morphologically affected GBM02 cells, both by loss of cytoplasmic content, cell membrane disruption and content leakage. Regarding the cytotoxicity assay, none of the compounds used in the test showed toxicity and all demonstrated to be selective for human glioblastoma cells. In view of the results, other studies such as: antitumor of guanylhydrazones 72 hours, morphology of other derivatives, cytotoxic effect on monocytes and lymphocytes, evaluation of selectivity and antimigratory effect and tests in the Muse flow minicytometer, are being carried out.

4
  • ANDREIZA MÁRCIA MAIA DE OLIVEIRA
  • REMEDIATION OF NITRATES AND NITRITES CONTENT IN HUMAN
    CONSUMPTION WATER USING MICROALGAE CHARACTERISTIC
    OF THE ALAGOAS REGION.

  • Advisor : JOSEALDO TONHOLO
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • JOSEALDO TONHOLO
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • GUILHERME BENJAMIN BRANDAO PITTA
  • TICIANO GOMES DO NASCIMENTO
  • JOSE LEANDRO DA SILVA DUARTE
  • Data: Jul 15, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Considering that microalgae metabolize nitrogenous compounds, such
    as Ammonia, Nitrate and Nitrite, promoting the growth of their
    biomass and reducing the concentration of these compounds in the
    water. In this way, microalgae have the potential to become an
    alternative in the treatment of water contaminated by nitrate. The main
    objective of this research was to evaluate the use of microalgae in the
    removal of nitrite and nitrate from drinking water from underground
    wells used for human supply, aiming to adapt them to the potability
    standards in force in Brazil. The development of the study consisted of
    the following steps: Characterization and molecular identification of
    Microalgae; Analysis of environmental conditions of growth and
    consequent removal of nitrogen compounds in synthetic water and
    water collected from underground wells. Being evaluated the time for 

    the total removal of the contaminant, and the time in which the
    concentrations of the contaminant reach the standards of potability
    defined by the Ministry of Health. As a result, the microalgae
    Tetradesmus sp. The sequences were deposited at the NCBI, and a
    phylogenetic tree was constructed from specific bioinformatics
    programs. For environmental analysis, the biomass was inoculated, in
    batches, in 2000ml photobioreactors in transparent acrylic with
    adapted BG11 – Medium, reaching optimal growth values with
    luminosity of 100µmol/m2s, at an average temperature of 28°, pH
    between 8, 0 and 8.5 and bubble-type agitation. For the analysis step
    with a real sample, samples were collected from two underground
    wells PJ03A and PJ10A, with nitrate and ammonia, respectively,
    31.50mg/L N and 29.60 mg/L N; 4.98 mg/l and 5.95 mg/l, values
    presented in a technical report from Companhia de Saneamento de
    Alagoas. The reference values recommended by Ordinance No.
    05/2017 – MS, are 1.5 mg/l for ammonia and 10 mg/l for Nitrogen –
    approximately 45 mg/l for Nitrate. Maintaining the parameters used in
    the synthetic medium, the microalgal biomass was inoculated in two
    photobioreactors, initially in batch, where the need to add phosphate to
    the real sample was identified, after which adequate values of removal
    and growth were reached, using 2000ml of the samples in each, it was
    verified the efficiency of the method in semi-continuous systems at
    20%, 40%, 60% and 80%. In the present study, the affinity of
    Tetradesmus sp. for the removal of compounds, such as N and P, in
    well water, under controlled environmental and nutritional conditions
    in closed photobioreactors with supplementary aeration.

5
  • AILTON MOTA DO NASCIMENTO GALVAO
  • App Development for Mobile Devices with Usability in Wound Tracking

  • Advisor : GUILHERME BENJAMIN BRANDAO PITTA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • AMANDA KARINE BARROS FERREIRA RODRIGUES
  • CELIO FERNANDO DE SOUSA RODRIGUES
  • GEORGE AZEVEDO LEMOS
  • GUILHERME BENJAMIN BRANDAO PITTA
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • Data: Jul 29, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Introduction: The UP Feridas app presents itself as an easy and agile innovative proposal for
    the tracking of wounds of vascular origin by health professionals in Primary Care. Diabetic foot
    ulcers (UPD) are the main cause of lower limb amputation, due to lack of prevention, diagnosis
    and late treatment. Amputation, therefore, is an irreversible complication with extreme
    physical, mental and social implications. UPDs precede 85% of amputations and Diabetes
    Mellitus is the main cause of lower extremity amputations.
    Objective: To develop an
    application for mobile devices with usability in tracking diabetic foot wounds and varicose
    ulcers. Method: Study on the technological development of a mobile application for tracking
    patients with diabetic foot and varicose ulcers from the Primary Care of the Family Health
    Program (PSF). Due to the specificity of technological knowledge required in the creation of
    an application for mobile devices, all stages of the study were developed in a partnership
    between I9Colab and PROFNIT and the research group CendoVascular linked to the Arthur
    Ramos Memorial Hospital - HMAR.
    Results: 10 (ten) applications aimed at the care and
    prevention of diabetic foot were identified and analyzed. The results demonstrate that the
    applications found in the databases: patents, articles and in the Play Store, are related to the
    clinical management of the diabetic patient, management and practical pocket guide for patients
    with foot problems. However, none of them refers to the tracking of diabetic patients with
    wounds of vascular origin in primary care, indicating the novelty of the proposed topic in terms
    of patents filed in Brazil and via PCT.
    Conclusion: The application for mobile devices with
    usability in wound tracking was developed.


6
  • GIANCARLO DE BRITO LYRA SANTOS
  • Diagnostics and Illumina sequencing discovery of badnaviruses associated with air yam (Dioscorea bulbifera L.) in Brazil.

  • Advisor : GAUS SILVESTRE DE ANDRADE LIMA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • GAUS SILVESTRE DE ANDRADE LIMA
  • HENRIQUE FONSECA GOULART
  • JOÃO GOMES DA COSTA
  • JOÃO MANOEL DA SILVA
  • KARLOS ANTONIO LISBOA RIBEIRO JUNIOR
  • MAYRA MACHADO DE MEDEIROS FERRO
  • Data: Aug 5, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Dioscorea bulbifera L., commonly known as air yam, is an edible crop belonging to the botanical family Dioscoreaceae, and it has increasingly attracted attention due to its socioeconomical relevance for smallholder farmers in Brazil. Although its natural resistance to diseases, air yam is affected by plant pararetroviruses into the genus Badnavirus (family Caulimoviridae). Badnaviruses have double-stranded, semicircular, DNA genomes of 7.4 to 9.0 kb in size, encapsidated into non-enveloped, bacilliform particles and are mainly transmitted by mealybugs (Pseudococcidae). To molecularly characterize the species diversity and complete genomes of badnaviruses associated with D. bulbifera in Brazil, plant samples (n=60) were collected from different growing regions. Partial sequences of the reverse transcriptase (RT) and ribonuclease H (RNase H) domains (~530 bp) were amplified by PCR and Sanger sequenced from 26 positive samples, while full-length genome sequences were recovered from three representative samples. The new partial RT-RNase H sequences were identified as belonging to the badnaviruses Dioscorea bacilliform AL virus, Dioscorea bacilliform SN virus, and Dioscorea bacilliform TR virus, and the endogenous pararetrovirus dioscorea rotundata endogenous virus eDBV12. Further, a putative species novel tentatively named Dioscorea bacilliform BL virus was partially characterized, sharing highest nucleotide identity with eDBV12 sequences, at 73.4-79.9%. The Bayesian phylogenetic tree based on partial RT-RNase H sequences showed that the new sequences were clustered in three different clades, with the new species being more closely related to eDBV12. Finally, three Illumina-based badnaviral genomes were assembled from 2,240 to 30,668 reads and a coverage depth of 74 to 963 times. The new genomes ranged from 7,208 to 7,420 bp in size and showed typical badnaviral genomic organization with three main open reading frames (ORFs 1-3). The complete RT-RNase H sequences (~1,230 bp) retrieved from the new viral genomes were more closely related to Dioscorea bacilliform AL virus (n=1) and Dioscorea bacilliform SN virus (n=2), at 85.1-86.6 and 82.2-83.9% nucleotide identity, respectively. These results reinforce the high badnaviral species diversity usually observed associated with Dioscorea spp. and constitute the first report of dioscorea bacilliform TR virus (DBTRV) in D. bulbifera. Also, these are the first complete genome sequences of yam-infecting badnaviruses described in Brazil.

7
  • LUCIANA CASTELO BRANCO CAMURÇA FERNANDES
  • EQUIPAMENT DEVELOPMENT FOR ASSESSING SOUND LOCATION IN HUMAN BEINGS

  • Advisor : PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ILKA DO AMARAL SOARES
  • LAERCIO POL FACHIN
  • LILIAN FERREIRA MUNIZ
  • LILIANE DESGUALDO PEREIRA
  • LUCIANA APARECIDA CORA
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • Data: Aug 12, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Sound localization is the ability to identify the source of the sound. This skill is fundamental  for the development of selective attention, is helps in oral communication and is known as one  of the skills needed for central auditory processing (PAC). During the evaluation of the PAC,  the assessment of this ability is made through the localization test in the five directions. The  localization test used in the evaluation of the PAC, needs some adjustments in the applicability  and has been discarded by many professionals for not having an equipment for this purpose. Thus, a search for priorities was carried out in order to verify patents field with this theme,  verifying onlu parents that approached subject, with divergent objectives to that of this study. In view of this reality, the need arose to develop new equipment to assess the ability of sound  localization and compose the PAC exam. Objective: in living beings. Methodology: This study  consists of several states. 1) Equipment development. 2) Software development. 3) Production  of sound stimuli. 4) Application of the test in human beings using the new equipment for  auditory localization. The study sample will consist of a pilot group, formed by 10 adults with  normal CAP; and other group, formed by 10 children with altered CAP. The results will be  compered between the localization test in the 5 directions with the localization test with new  equipment. Result: The equipment was produced at LATEC, with a patent field with the INPI.  It consists of a circuit board, an amplifier, 5 speakers and software, which is registered. Human  testing is in its early stages. Expected result: We hope that this product will be a differential for  the localization test, collaborating with the diagnosis of the CAP.


8
  • FERNANDA CALHEIROS PEIXOTO TENORIO
  • Study of treatment protocols anda analysis of the effects of Covid-19 on the

    auditory system

  • Advisor : PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • LUCIANA APARECIDA CORA
  • ALINE TENORIO LINS CARNAUBA
  • ANA CLAUDIA FIGUEIREDO FRIZZO
  • KARINA PAES ADVÍNCULA
  • KELLY CRISTINA LIRA DE ANDRADE
  • Data: Aug 12, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Introduction: The infectious disease caused by the new coronavirus and first
    identified in 2019 (COVID-19) has become a global public health concern as
    it has spread rapidly around the world. Some studies have preliminarily
    demonstrated that the infection can result in damage to the auditory and
    vestibular systems. Objectives: Investigate treatment protocols and analyze
    the effects of COVID-19 on the system. Materials and Methods: A
    systematic review with meta-analysis was prepared. In it, the effects of
    chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine for the human auditory system were 

    analyzed. In parallel, an observational analytical and cross-sectional study is
    being carried out in patients who tested positive for COVID-19 and were at
    least in stage II of the infection. Auditory and vestibular assessments will be
    performed: otoscopy, audiometry, immittanciometry, auditory brainstem
    evoked potentials, assessment of cortical auditory evoked potentials and
    vestibular evoked myogenic potential. Results: the systematic review article
    with meta-analysis was submitted to a journal and will be presented in this
    qualification. While the study with human beings, it is in its initial phase and
    will be presented in defense of the thesis. Conclusion: The aim is to
    understand the repercussions of the infection on the auditory and vestibular
    systems, helping the health system to plan actions for the eventual
    rehabilitation of the compromised patients.

9
  • MARILENE BRANDAO TENORIO FRAGOSO
  • CHARACTERIZATION OF INFLAMMATORY AND REDOX IMBALANCE BIOMARKERS IN UMBILICAL CORDS FROM PREGNANCIES WITH PREECLAMPSIA

  • Advisor : MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • MAGNA SUZANA ALEXANDRE MOREIRA
  • JERUSA MARIA DE OLIVEIRA AMORIM
  • FABIANA ANDREA MOURA
  • ALANE CABRAL MENEZES DE OLIVEIRA
  • MARISA ANDREIA CARVALHO DE FREITAS
  • Data: Oct 27, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Introduction: The umbilical cord is responsible for connecting the developing fetus and the placenta, with an essential role for adequate fetal growth and development. Therefore, morphological and functional changes in this can lead to diseases, such as preeclampsia (PE), and bring adverse outcomes to pregnancies. Objective: To compare the levels of redox imbalance and inflammation biomarkers in pregnancies with PE and without PE and analyze their relationship with perinatal outcomes. Methods: Cross-sectional study, carried out in Maceió-AL, in 2017, including women diagnosed with PE and others without the disease, through the application of a standardized questionnaire containing socioeconomic and clinical data. After delivery, an umbilical cord sample was collected to measure the levels of the following biomarkers: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), interleukin (IL) 6, 8 and 10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). Furthermore, data on newborns from hospital records were collected to assess the outcomes of pregnancies. Statistical analyzes were performed using Stata software version 13.0 and IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0, adopting a confidence level of 95% (α=0.05), and the chi-square test, Wilcoxon–Mann –Whitney and multinomial and Poisson regressions. Results: 150 pregnant women were studied, 100 with PE and 50 without the disease. The levels of GSH (p ≤ 0.001), GPx (p = 0.016), and MDA (p = 0.028) were higher, as well as IL-6 (p = 0:030) and TNF-α (p ≤ 0:001) were lower in the PE group compared to those without the disease, in addition to their association with perinatal outcomes, including low birth weight, newborns small for gestational age, low birth length and Apgar score in the 1st and 5th minutes of life, being the interaction between groups not significant. Conclusion: Increased levels of GSH, GPx, and MDA and reduced levels of IL-6 and TNF-α demonstrate the presence of redox imbalance in umbilical cords of pregnancies with PE and the presence of an adaptive mechanism aimed at fetal protection. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out more studies on the role of the cord in PE and clinical trials using antioxidant supplementation in this group to analyze their effects on the umbilical cord and the outcomes of pregnancies affected by this illness.

10
  • BRENO ARAÚJO DE MELO
  • Use of Infrared Thermography to detect mastitis in crossbred of Murrah × Jafarabadi female buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis - Linnaeus, 1758)

  • Advisor : ANGELINA BOSSI FRAGA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANGELINA BOSSI FRAGA
  • KARLOS ANTONIO LISBOA RIBEIRO JUNIOR
  • TANIA MARTA CARVALHO DOS SANTOS
  • JOSIEL BORGES FERREIRA
  • JOÃO GOMES DA COSTA
  • Data: Oct 27, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Mastitis is inflammation of the mammary gland of multifactorial origin. It is mainly caused by bacteria and causes economic losses for the entire dairy production sector. The control and diagnosis of mastitis on farms can be costly and time-consuming, demanding laboratory analysis. Diagnostic imaging by infrared thermography (IRT) has become promising in veterinary medicine, as it is a non-invasive method and does not require animal restraint, being able to detect body temperature variations associated with inflammatory processes, such as fever and physiological changes. The objective of the present research was to evaluate the efficiency of IVT for the detection of subclinical mastitis in dairy buffaloes, making the association between the infrared images of the udder surface and the results of the conventional tests for the diagnosis of mastitis: Somatic cell count (SCC) and California mastitis test (CMT). 300 mammary quarters of crossbred dairy buffaloes (Murrah × Jafarabadi) were evaluated. Thermographic images were obtained from the following regions of the udder: right hindquarter (RQ) and left hindquarter (LQ). Thermal imaging and milk samples were taken at 60-day intervals between the years 2021 and 2022. Samples were obtained before the morning milking. To obtain the thermographic images, a thermographic camera model Flir tg165® was used. The camera was calibrated for an emissivity of 0.98. The images were collected with an angle of 90° and a distance of 0.50 meters. The diagnosis of subclinical mastitis was performed by CMT and CCS. The results for CMT were based on a score where: 0 = negative reaction, 1(+) = moderately positive reaction, 2(++) = positive reaction and 3(+++) = strongly positive reaction. For the CCS, samples of 50 mL of milk were collected from each breast room studied and then sent to the Clínica do Leite – Piracicaba/SP. Animals with CCS values ≤ 200,000 cells/mL were considered healthy, and those with CCS >200,000 cells/mL were diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. Correlation analyzes were performed Pearson (at 5%) and Linear regression between CCS, CMT and temperature. Sensitivity and specificity analyze were performed to determine the ability of TIV to detect subclinical mastitis in dairy buffaloes. The CMT and CCS tests identified that of the 243 mammary quarters evaluated, 61.72% (150/243) were healthy buffaloes and 38.27% (93/243) had subclinical mastitis. The CCS of healthy breast quarters ranged from 9.00 to 136.00 (×103 cell/mL), while that for diseased breast quarters ranged from 201.00 to 7411.00 (×103 cell/mL). Score 3(+++) presented the highest mean value for CCS (2839.48 ×103 cell/mL). The TIVU of scores 0; 1(+); 2(+) and 3(+++) differed significantly, ranging from 33.52°C to 35.8°C. Score 3+ had the highest mean TIVU value (34.83°C). The CMT identified that the highest proportion of breast rooms evaluated were classified with a score of 1+ (40.00%), followed by scores of 3+ (35.48%) and a score of 2++ (24.73%). There were significant positive correlations between all mastitis indicators (CCS and CMT) and TIVU. TIVU showed positive correlations with CCS (r = 0.58) and CMT (r = 0.60) (P < 0.0001). The highest correlation recorded was between CCS and CMT (0.80). The relationship between TIVU and CCS was best fitted to a logarithmic equation [TIVU, °C = 31.48+ 0.38 × ln(CCS, × 103 cel/mL); R2 = 0.34; P < 0.0001). We conclude that IVT can be a valuable tool as a non-invasive method of control and detection of subclinical mastitis in dairy buffaloes, contributing to facilitate the management of diagnoses of the disease under the same conditions of milk production under study.

11
  • CHRYSLANE BARBOSA DA SILVA
  •  

     

    STUDY OF THE CHEMICAL ECOLOGY OF Acharia auromacula Schaus, 1896 (LEPIDOPTERA: LIMACODIDAE) and Caligo illioneus illioneus Cramer, 1775 (LEPIDOPTERA: NYMPHALIDAE)

  • Advisor : ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • HENRIQUE FONSECA GOULART
  • JOSÉ MAURICIO SIMÕES BENTO
  • RAFAEL MAJOR PITTA
  • RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • TIAGO CARDOSO DA COSTA LIMA
  • Data: Oct 31, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  •  

    Arecaceae comprises palm trees that have great potential for the agricultural market, however, its expansion ends up being limited by factors such as the presence of pest insects. Oil palm (Elaeis guineenses Jacq.) is a palm tree cultivated in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil and has a diversity of pests associated with the culture, which in most cases do not have registered products for their control. As a way to minimize the presence of insects in the area of cultivation and use of pesticides, new control strategies are used, such as the behavioral one, which uses semiochemicals, mainly pheromones, to control insect pests in agricultural environments. The aim of this study was to investigate the morphology and typology of the sensilla in the antennae, histology of the pheromone gland, location of the androconial region and obtain the chemical composition in Acharia auromacula and Caligo illioneus illioneus. At first, insects were collected in oil palm planting areas on the farms of Grupo Agropalma SA, in the city of Thailand – Pará. The material (eggs, caterpillars and pupae) was sent to the Natural Resources Research Laboratory and maintained in a breeding room until obtaining adult insects for analysis. For both species, the morphology of the antennae and identification of the sensilla were carried out by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and the extracts of the different parts of the insects' body (♂ and ♀) were obtained by extraction with HPLC grade hexane solvent and analyzed by GC /EAG, CG/DIC and CG/EM. For A. auromacula, histological analysis was performed with an ovipositor and for C. i. illioneus used the androconia region. As results for A. auromacula it was verified sexual dimorphism in the antennas and identified several types of sensilla, such as basiconic, trichoid, auricillic and coeloconic in both sexes, being able to act in the chemoreception. In C.i. illioneus there is no dimorphism in the antennae and among the types of sensilla stand out basiconic, trichoid and coeloconic in both sexes. The pheromone gland was located in the ovipositor of the female A. auromacula, which has a set of glandular cells. the majority compound is the Decanal. In C.i. illioneus in males the androconia region on the wings and abdomen was observed, the chemical composition profile demonstrates that the androconia region has male-specific compounds. Therefore, this information provides important data on the chemical communication of the A. auromacula moth and the C. i. illioneus.

     

12
  • TAMIRES ALVES DO NASCIMENTO
  • CONTRIBUTIONS OF MOLECULAR ELECTROCHEMISTRY IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY AND IN THE ANALYSIS OF FLUORESCENT PROBES


  • Advisor : MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANA CAROLINE FERREIRA SANTOS
  • ANTONIO EUZEBIO GOULART SANTANA
  • JADRIANE DE ALMEIDA XAVIER
  • JERUSA MARIA DE OLIVEIRA AMORIM
  • MARILIA OLIVEIRA FONSECA GOULART
  • Data: Nov 21, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Molecular electrochemistry is useful for characterizing redox reactions and deciphering reactional mechanisms associated with electron transfer. Quinones represent a wide and varied family of metabolites of natural distribution. The interest in these substances has increased due to their contribution to vital biochemical processes and increasing prominence for their biological and pharmacological activities. Despite the various beneficial effects, quinones are also considered toxins. It is precisely this double behavior (pro-oxidant versus antioxidant) that gives this class of compounds a peculiarity of great interest to researchers, especially in medicinal chemistry. Fluorescent compounds are attractive substrates and have been widely used as chemical sensors, laser dyes, and therapeutic applications, and their electrochemical properties are adjustable. Substitution at different positions affects the electronic environment around the BODIPY core, causing characteristic changes in oxidation and reduction potentials and other physical-chemical properties. Both quinones and BODIPYS are promising bioactive molecules that have stood out as prototype candidates for drugs or probes. This work investigated the electrochemical behavior in electrochemical cells, in vitro hybrid quinones and nitrosyl-BODIPYs, in an aprotic medium ((ACN or DMF + TBAPF6 0.1 mol L-1) to obtain data on their redox mechanisms, electrogenerated intermediates, formation of reactive oxygen species, and interaction with biological macromolecules. The electrochemical techniques used were cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry on vitreous carbon electrodes (d = 3 mm). The counter electrode was a platinum wire, and the reference electrode, Ag | AgCl, Cl− (saturated). We investigated 14 acrylated quinones, and in the comparison among reduction potentials and biological activities, it was noted that the most electrophilic (more positive reduction potentials) presented the highest trypanocidal activity (CI50/24 h, less than about 300 μM), except for one of them. An apparent correlation between the presence of an electron-withdrawing group, such as chlorine, with an easier reduction and a higher biological activity, appeared, together with an ideal range for the reduction potential. In the aprotic medium employed, all compounds, with first wave reduction potential values (Ep1c), around -0.5 V or more positive, were active. These compounds can be considered "highly oxidizing" in this biological context, with consequences on trypanocidal activity. Nitrosylated BODIPYs were investigated at α (5-nitrosyl) and β (6-nitrosyl). The location of the NO group on α or β strongly affects the electronic structures and redox behavior. The electrochemical spectrum associated with Conceptual Density analysis and Functional Theory (CDFT) corroborates the voltammetric results and explains the unexpected reactivity differences. The nitrosyl group is the first to be reduced in 5-nitrosyl-BODIPY, while in the beta isomer, the nitrosyl group strongly facilitates the reduction in the BODIPY moiety.

13
  • CLAUDINETE DOS SANTOS SILVA
  • Influence of volatile compounds common to sex pheromone and host fruits on reproductive behavior of male Anastrepha obliqua (Diptera: Tephritidae)
  • Advisor : RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • RUTH RUFINO DO NASCIMENTO
  • FABIANE CAXICO DE ABREU GALDINO
  • FRANCIS SOARES GOMES
  • JOÃO GOMES DA COSTA
  • IARA SORDI JOACHIM BRAVO
  • ADRIANA DE LIMA MENDONCA
  • Data: Dec 9, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • The fruit fly Anastrepha obliqua (Diptera: Tephritidae) represents one of the main pests in the world's fruit culture, as it is a polyphagous insect whose larvae feed on the fruit pulp, causing great economic losses for producing and exporting countries. A promising tool for the integrated management of this pest is the use of volatile compounds from host fruits combined with male pheromone. These substances are used by conspecific males to attract other males in order to potentiate the emission of the sex pheromone, attracting females for mating. There are few studies related to chemical communication of the species under study, and no comparative research on the chemistry of volatile compounds common to hosts and the pheromone released by males has been reported in the literature. To understand the role of volatile organic compounds present in mixtures released by host fruits and virgin males of this insect-pest, in different stages of reproductive behavior (calling and copulation), the present work aimed to study the attraction of virgin males to formulations of mixtures of common compounds to pheromonal mixture released by virgin males of A. obliqua and to host fruits guava, carambola and mango, through behavioral bioassays conducted in the laboratory. Therefore, the dynamic headspace technique was used to obtain extracts containing the volatile compounds released by sexually mature males and by the host fruits, and the compounds common to the pheromone mixture and the host fruits were identified through comparisons of literature data. The results showed that, among the 14 mixtures tested, derived from different fruits, twelve were attractive to virgin males of A. obliqua, when compared to the control treatment (mixture of male volatiles with fruit volatiles), namely: M1FG , M2FG, M3FG, M4FG and M5FG, consisting of compounds common to guava and sex pheromone; M2FC, M3FC and M4FC, made up of compounds common to carambola and sex pheromone and M2FM, M3FM, M4FM, made up of compounds common to mango and sex pheromone. The M5FM mixture exerted greater attractiveness than the control treatment, while the M1FC and M1FM mixtures, common to sex pheromone and to carambola and mango fruits, respectively, elicited less attraction in males than the control treatment. New bioassays must be conducted to evaluate the effect of these formulations on the sexual performance of males of A. obliqua

14
  • THAIS NOBRE UCHÔA SOUZA
  • New verbal discrimination test with the use of mismatch negativity in children with phonological disorder

  • Advisor : PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ANA CLAUDIA FIGUEIREDO FRIZZO
  • GUILHERME BENJAMIN BRANDAO PITTA
  • KELLY CRISTINA LIRA DE ANDRADE
  • LUCIANA MACEDO DE RESENDE
  • MARCIA KESKE-SOARES
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • Data: Dec 21, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • Auditory discrimination represents a fundamental aspect for the correct production of speech sounds, as it is through the perception of acoustic characteristics that phonemes can be distinguished from one another, generating appropriate neural representations. Children with phonological disorder present disorganization of the sound system, with the presence of substitution and/or omission of phonemes, in an age group that is no longer expected. The etiology of this disorder is still not clear, however, the inability to audibly discriminate the characteristics of phonemes may be a causal or aggravating factor of this condition. Given the relationship between auditory skills and phonological disorder, the investigation of auditory processing in these children becomes extremely valuable. Thus, the objective assessment of auditory processing, through electrophysiological tests of hearing, such as the Mismatch Negativity, plays a relevant role in studies of this population. In the search for a greater understanding of this theme, a systematic review with meta-analysis was carried out, in order to know the researches that used the Mismatch Negativity to assess auditory discrimination in children with the disorder, and to have an overview of the protocols used in these studies. Few studies were found in the literature that used this potential in the studied population and no studies were found that related the verbal stimulus used for auditory discrimination with the phonological processes that children with phonological disorders present in their speech. In addition, still focusing on the auditory discrimination of children with phonological disorders, the development of a device that could contribute to the therapy of these children was proposed, providing a better perception and discrimination of phonemes, necessary for the adequate production of speech, enabling thus, a more efficient auditory feedback, and that would also offer the teaching practice the possibility of a more refined shared learning of the acoustic characteristics of speech. Knowing that the investigation of the relationship between the skills of speech production and perception is essential for these children, since new discoveries can reorganize the intervention model for this population, it was proposed to develop a new verbal discrimination test with use of the Mismatch Negativity for children with phonological disorder, using verbal stimuli that correspond to phonological processes. The research aimed to compare the auditory discrimination ability of children with phonological and neurotypic disorders, aged between four and seven years, of both sexes, using the Mismatch Negativity, using the natural speech stimuli /ta/, /ga/ and /da/, developed for the present study. The stimuli were chosen to be matched in pairs so as to correspond to phonological processes, with the stimulus /ta/x/da/ being associated with the deafening process or the sound of plosives and the stimulus /ga/x/da/ related to frontalization or posteriorization to velar, in which the syllable /da/ was always presented as the rare stimulus, with 20% of appearance. The results were analyzed statistically. The sample studied showed a high prevalence of phonological disorder in boys, aged 5 years, with mild-moderate severity and with a higher occurrence of processes of consonant cluster simplification, liquid simplification and final consonant simplification. In the intragroup comparison, it was possible to verify that children with phonological disorder discriminate in a similar way the pairs of stimuli used. There was no correlation between MMN and speech intelligibility.

15
  • RANILDE CRISTIANE CAVALCANTE COSTA
  • Development of a diagnostic test to identify auditory discrimination levels with cortical auditory evoked potentials
  • Advisor : PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • COMMITTEE MEMBERS :
  • ALINE TENORIO LINS CARNAUBA
  • ANA CLAUDIA FIGUEIREDO FRIZZO
  • GUILHERME BENJAMIN BRANDAO PITTA
  • PEDRO DE LEMOS MENEZES
  • SILVANA MARIA SOBRAL GRIZ
  • VALDETE ALVES VALENTINS DOS SANTOS FILHA
  • Data: Dec 22, 2022


  • Show Abstract
  • The examination of cortical auditory evoked potentials is used to characterize auditory processing, based on different stimuli, which can be elicited by pure tone or speech. Speech sounds are composed of different distinctive features that are defined as acoustic-articulation characteristics capable of marking the difference between phonemes. Changes in speech sounds, a condition frequently observed during child development, may be related to difficulties in auditory discrimination. Considering the characteristics of speech for the definition of stimuli that can be used to elicit evoked potentials, this research was divided into three stages. Initially, speech stimuli were defined considering the distinctive features to perform the examination of cortical auditory evoked potentials in adults and children with normal hearing and speech, with the aim of developing a diagnostic test to identify levels of auditory discrimination. Preliminary results showed that the stimuli were able to generate cortical auditory evoked potentials, making it possible to identify the N1-P2-N2 complex in adults and children. The analysis of partial data showed that there is no difference between the three stimuli in the adult population. Data collection from children has not been completed. Then, a systematic review was carried out with meta-analysis on cortical auditory potentials in children with phonological disorder, finding that there is no difference in N1-P2-N2 latency in these children, when compared to children with typical speech development. Finally, a speech screening application is under development with the aim of early identification of children with phonological disorders. Initial tests indicate that the application works properly.

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