Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat that has led to nearly incurable ailments, with prolonged disease occurrences being linked to cancer development. Fungal endophytes from medicinal plants produce diverse natural compounds that can combat the progression of AMR pathogens. Kirkia acuminata is an overharvested African medicinal plant that is used to treat various ailments, such as diarrhoea, toothache and thrush; however, there is little knowledge on the biological potential of its fungal endophytes. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the antimicrobial, cytotoxicity and anticancer properties of fungal endophytes associated with K. acuminata stems. Culturable fungal endophytes from surface-sterilised stems of K. acuminata were identified through sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Ethyl acetate extracts of the isolates were assessed for their antimicrobial activity using the broth microdilution assay. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to determine the cytotoxic profiles of the crude extracts against non-cancerous human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells. Moreover, the alamarBlue assay was used to screen the anticancer activity of the non-cytotoxic extracts against cervical cancer ME-180 and melanoma A375 cancerous cells. A total of 18 morphologically distinct isolates distributed among the genera Diaporthe, Neofusicoccum and Pseudofusicoccum were obtained. Seventeen out of the eighteen isolates possessed inhibitory activity against Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, with overall MIC values between 0.31 and 2.5 mg/mL. However, only four isolates, D. macadamiae KaS-4, D. neotheicola KaS-6, N. parvum KaS-3 and P. olivaceum KaS-5, were non-cytotoxic against the non-cancerous HEK-293 cells and exhibited moderate inhibitory activity against the ME-180 and A375 cancerous cells. Thus, this study highlights the potential of fungal endophytes from K. acuminata in producing safe natural compounds with antimicrobial and anticancer action for drug discovery.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a significant human pathogen that infects approximately 50-70% of the global population. It colonizes the gastric epithelium, causing histological alterations that can lead to diseases ranging from chronic gastritis to gastric cancer. Recent research has focused on exploring bioactive compounds from natural sources as potential therapeutic strategies against H. pylori due to their promising biological properties. This study investigated bioactive extracts from celery seeds (Apium graveolens) to determine their potential antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects against H. pylori.

The extracts were obtained using various solvents through the solid–liquid extraction technique assisted by ultrasound, and both their chemical composition and biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects, against a specific strain of H. pylori, were evaluated.

The results showed that the chemical composition of the extracts varied depending on the solvent polarity employed, which also influenced their biological activity. Ethanolic extracts exhibited the highest phenolic content (42.8 ± 0.9 mg GAE/g extract) and were found to be rich in luteolin and apigenin derivatives, which are known for their potent antioxidant properties. In contrast, hexane extracts contained higher levels of essential oil compounds. Regarding biological activities, the ethanolic extract demonstrated the highest antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ 2 mg/mL), while aqueous and ethanolic extracts showed the strongest anti-inflammatory activity (90% NO production inhibition). Both ethanolic and hexane extracts exhibited the greatest antibacterial activity against H. pylori (MIC 0.005 mg/mL).

Based on these results, the ethanolic extract of celery seeds appears to be the most promising for use against H. pylori due to its chemical composition and potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities against this pathogen.

Introduction: Congenital syphilis continues to be a serious public health problem in Brazil, with significant impacts on neonatal morbidity and mortality. One of the main factors associated with the high rate of this condition is the lack of adequate treatment for pregnant women's partners, which facilitates the vertical transmission of the infection.

Methods: Secondary data were collected from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS) regarding congenital syphilis cases in Brazil from 2014 to 2024. The analysis focused on comparing rates of congenital syphilis across demographic regions, considering the influence of untreated partners on these rates.

Results: Between 2014 and 2024, 250.310 cases of congenital syphilis were reported in Brazil. Of these, 135.693 cases (54.2%) were from untreated partners, 46.096 (18.4%) were from treated partners, and 68.521 (27.3%) were classified as ignored/blank. The southeast region has the highest rate with 108.874 (43.5%) cases and untreated partners represent 57.762 (53%) cases in this region. This is followed by the northeast region with 72.113 (28.8%) total cases and 39,608 (54.9%) cases of untreated parents. The highest rate of untreated parents occurs in the northern region with 12,599 (58.9%) cases.

Conclusions: The data indicate that congenital syphilis remains a critical public health issue in Brazil, with a significant proportion of cases linked to untreated partners. The southeast and northeast regions exhibit the highest absolute numbers, while the northern region shows the highest percentage of cases from untreated partners. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, including comprehensive prenatal screening and effective partner treatment strategies. Strengthening public health policies and awareness campaigns is essential to reducing vertical transmission rates and mitigating neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with congenital syphilis.

Introduction: Gestational syphilis remains a significant public health issue due to its severe maternal and neonatal complications. Understanding its epidemiological profile in Brazil is essential for guiding public health interventions and reducing its impact on vulnerable populations. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted on cases of gestational syphilis across Brazil's five regions between January 2020 and December 2023. Data were collected through the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS), as well as from the 2022 census conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). The analysis included variables such as age groups, patient race, sex, and regional distribution. Results: Between 2020 and 2023, 246,265 cases of gestational syphilis were reported in Brazil. The Northern region of the country presented the highest incidence rate, with approximately 157 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The most affected age group was women aged 20 to 39 years, accounting for approximately 76% of the cases, followed by adolescents aged 15 to 19 years (21%). Furthermore, brown women (pardas) comprised about 53% of the reported cases, while white women represented 28%. Conclusions: The elevated number of gestational syphilis cases in Brazil from 2020 to 2023 underscores persistent regional disparities in healthcare access. The disproportionately high rates in the North may be linked to limited healthcare infrastructure and socioeconomic vulnerabilities. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to address the unique challenges faced by this region.

Introduction: The Zika virus is a flavivirus transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which led to an epidemic in Brazil in 2016. In the majority of adult cases, infection is asymptomatic. However, in pregnant women, Zika virus infection can result in fetal abnormalities such as microcephaly. This study intends to analyze Zika virus cases in Brazil during the period from 2020 to 2024. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study on the number of Zika Virus cases in Brazil from 2020 to 2024 is described. Data from the Notification of Diseases Information System available in the DATASUS database were utilized. Among the analyzed variables, age group, education level, and sex were particularly highlighted. Results: In the analyzed period, 133,202 cases were recorded, with women being the most affected, accounting for 62% of the cases. Regarding age, the highest number of registered cases (52,423) was in the 20-39 years age group, followed by the 40-59 age group, computing 31,412 cases. Furthermore, illiterate people recorded the lowest incidence of Zika (1,077), as the highest incidence was recorded in the group that completed high school (22,030). Conclusions: The data from 2020 to 2024 demonstrate that Zika virus infection in Brazil predominantly affected women, particularly those in their reproductive and working-age groups (20-39 years), highlighting the continued vulnerability of this population and their possible children. The higher incidence observed among individuals with higher educational levels, particularly those who completed high school, suggests that exposure and reporting factors may play a role in case distribution. These findings emphasize the importance of tailored public health interventions, with a focus on reproductive-age women, as well as the need for enhanced education and outreach strategies to address at-risk populations effectively.

Introduction: Leptospirosis, a zoonosis caused by Leptospira bacteria, is transmitted through contact with infected animals’ urine, often in flooded, unsanitary environments. In 2024, Rio Grande do Sul experienced severe floods due to heavy rains, inundating cities like Canoas and creating ideal conditions for leptospirosis spread through contaminated water exposure.

Methods: Data on confirmed leptospirosis cases in Canoas for 2023 and 2024 were sourced from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). Monthly notifications were analyzed using time-series analysis to detect trends and descriptive statistics to highlight peak incidence periods. Historical data from 2020–2022 were reviewed to place recent findings in a multi-year context.

Results: In 2023, 14 cases were recorded, while 27 cases were reported in the first half of 2024. From March to June, aligned with the 2024 flooding, cases increased from 7 in 2023 to 27 in 2024, with May 2024 representing 52% of the year’s total. Historical data (2020–2022) show an annual average of 12 to 15 cases, suggesting the 2024 surge exceeds typical fluctuations, particularly during flood-affected months. This indicates a significant deviation linked to environmental conditions.

Conclusions: The 2024 floods in Rio Grande do Sul likely contributed to the notable rise in leptospirosis cases in Canoas, as floodwaters heightened infection risk. Compared to historical averages, this increase appears anomalous, reinforcing the influence of extreme weather on disease incidence. These findings emphasize the importance of tailored public health responses in flood-prone regions, such as improved sanitation and early warning systems, to mitigate future outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.

Introduction: Dengue is a public health challenge in Brazil, characterized by its mosquito-borne nature and potential for severe clinical outcomes. The distribution and dynamics of this disease can be influenced by various factors, including environmental, social, and economic changes. During periods of heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding, like those experienced in Rio Grande do Sul in May of 2024, there is often an increase in reports of Dengue cases. Understanding the epidemiological trends of Dengue is essential for guiding prevention and control efforts. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted on cases of dengue in the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul during 2023 and 2024.The data were obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). Results: In May and June 2024, following the flooding in Rio Grande do Sul, a total of 57,899 dengue cases were reported (47,733 in May and 10,166 in June). In comparison, during the same period in 2023, 18,195 cases were recorded (13,494 in May and 4,701 in June), representing a 218% increase in total cases between the two years. This surge was particularly significant in May, which saw more than triple the number of cases compared to the previous year. Conclusion: The significant increase in Dengue cases in Rio Grande do Sul in 2024, particularly following the severe flooding in May, underscores the influence of environmental factors on disease transmission. The 218% surge in cases compared to 2023 highlights the vulnerability of affected regions to vector proliferation during and after extreme weather events. These findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated public health strategies, including enhanced surveillance, community education, and rapid response measures, to mitigate the impact of environmental changes on Dengue outbreaks.

Antimicrobial resistance currently contributes to over seven million deaths annually worldwide, and that number is projected to rise to ten million by 2050. The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, compounded by the widespread misuse of antibiotics, underscores the urgent need for alternative treatment strategies. Natural products, including camel urine, are emerging as promising candidates to combat this growing public health crisis. By exploring these alternative agents, we may be able to effectively address multidrug resistance and improve global health outcomes.

Using the well diffusion method, sterilized camel urine from male and female camels was tested against eight multidrug-resistant bacterial strains isolated from clinical samples. The strains were first identified through phenotypic characterization on selective media, followed by confirmation using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and the BD Phoenix system.

Our findings revealed that female camel urine exhibited a stronger antibacterial effect than male camel urine. Specifically, the largest inhibition zones were observed on Mueller–Hinton agar, with diameters of 32 mm for NDM-1-producing Enterobacter cloacae, 30 mm for NDM-1-producing Klebsiella oxytoca, 29 mm for VIM-producing Acinetobacter baumannii and Citrobacter freundii, 25 mm for OXA-48-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and 22 mm for NDM-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were ranging from 0.08 to 12.5mg/l and from 0.8 to 25 mg/l, respectively.

This investigation demonstrated that sterilized female camel urine exhibits significant in vitro antibacterial activity against various carbapenem-resistant bacteria isolated from clinical samples which may serve as a promising source of new compounds to combat bacterial infections.

1. Introduction

Climate change significantly impacts agrarian systems, compromising the quality of agricultural production. This situation has led farmers to demand sustainable tools to enhance crop performance while maintaining soil fertility and product quality. Microorganisms capable of interact with plants represent an opportunity for cultivating healthy crops through growth promotion and biostimulation. Numerous studies point to native microbiomes in agricultural soils as a primary source of well-adapted microorganisms to develop new tools for crop treatment. This study was focused on the olive tree, a high-value Mediterranean crop. Microbial diversity was analyzed at two different phenological stages of the crop and both, the growth promotion and inhibitory capability against phytopathogens of isolated microorganisms were also evaluated.

2. Material and methods

A metagenomic analysis was performed using high-throughput sequencing. Additionally, culturable microorganisms were selected based on morphological criteria. Diversity data, combining molecular analysis and variability on isolated microorganisms, were studied to determine the effect of the crop stage on the soil microbiome structure.

The isolated strains were characterized for their plant growth-promoting properties (PGPR), such as nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, siderophores, and phytohormones production, to identify and select candidates to be used for the development of biotechnological tools.

3. Results

The number of morphotypes isolated during the fruit development stage was twice that obtained during the flowering stage. This increment is associated with greater root activity and the presence of exudates richer in organic compounds. Furthermore, microorganisms with remarkable PGPR characteristics were found, granting their strong potential as biocontrol and biofertilization agents.

4. Conclusions

This study demonstrates that soil is a valuable reservoir of microorganisms, that can be used to create bio-tools fos sustainable agriculture.

The bacteriome varies according to environmental conditions, such as pollution. These atmospheric variables also generate genetic and phenotypic changes in them, including antibiotic resistance. One way to study the bacteriome is using culturable communities, allowing the evaluation of changes in the community through controlled interventions. Our objective was to characterize and analyze the antibiotic resistance profile of the cultivable bacteriome of the Región Metropolitana. For this purpose, active air collections were obtained in Petri dishes with culture media from two areas of the Región Metropolitana that were differentially contaminated. After 7 days of growth, the composition and diversity were evaluated by high-throughput sequencing of the bacterial members. In addition, the resistant bacteriome was sampled in culture media supplemented with antibiotics at selective concentrations, and the multi-resistance quality of the isolates was evaluated. Finally, kanamycin-resistant isolates were selected and grown in a liquid medium supplemented with particulate matter, and their tolerance to antibiotics and the abundance of resistance gene transcripts were evaluated. The sequencing of the bacterial community allowed us to detect 170 bacterial ASVs. The most abundant bacterial phyla in the samples were Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. Although there were no significant differences in the alpha diversity of the cultivable bacteriome samples, there were significant differences in beta diversity. Also, we obtained 59 bacterial isolates resistant to antibiotics, of which more than 37% were multi-resistant. We detected resistance to aminoglycosides, beta-lactams, phenicols, glycopeptide antibiotics, and quinalones. Bacterial isolates subjected to particulate matter significantly increased their tolerance to kanamycin, which could be explained by an increase in the relative abundance of the antibiotic-resistance genes qacH and ampC. This study allowed us to determine the effects of pollution on the air bacterial community and antibiotic resistance, contributing to the generation of knowledge in the areas of microbial ecology and environmental sciences.