Two step calibration method for ozone low-cost sensor: Field experiences with the UrbanSense DCUs.

Urban air pollution is a global concern impairing citizens' health, thus monitoring is a pressing need for city managers. City-wide networks for air pollution monitoring based on low-cost sensors are promising to provide real-time data with detail and scale never before possible. However, they still present limitations preventing their ubiquitous use. Thus, this study aimed to perform a post-deployment validation and calibration based on two step methods for ozone low-cost sensor of a city-wide network for air pollution and meteorology monitoring using low-cost sensors focusing on the main challenges. Four of the 23 data collection units (DCUs) of the UrbanSense network installed in Porto city (Portugal) with low-cost sensors for particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), and meteorological variables (temperature, relative humidity, luminosity, precipitation, and wind speed and direction) were evaluated. This study identified post-deployment challenges related to their validation and calibration. The preliminary validation showed that PM, CO and precipitation sensors recorded only unreliable data, and other sensors (wind speed and direction) very few data. A multi-step calibration strategy was implemented: inter-DCU calibration (1st step, for O3, temperature and relative humidity) and calibration with a reference-grade instrument (2nd step, for O3). In the 1st step, multivariate linear regression (MLR) resulted in models with better performance than non-linear models such as artificial neural networks (errors almost zero and R2 > 0.80). In the 2nd step, the calibration models using non-linear machine learning boosting algorithms, namely Stochastic Gradient Boosting Regressor (both with the default and post-tuning hyper-parameters), performed better than artificial neural networks and linear regression approaches. The calibrated O3 data resulted in a marginal improvement from the raw data, with error values close to zero, with low predictability (R2 ∼ 0.32). The lessons learned with the present study evidenced the need to redesign the calibration strategy. Thus, a novel multi-step calibration strategy is proposed, based on two steps (pre and post-deployment calibration). When performed cyclically and continuously, this strategy reduces the need for reference instruments, while probably minimising data drifts over time. More experimental campaigns are needed to collect more data and further improve calibration models.

Nanotechnology for catalysis and solar energy conversion.

This roadmap on Nanotechnology for Catalysis and Solar Energy Conversion focuses on the application of nanotechnology in addressing the current challenges of energy conversion: 'high efficiency, stability, safety, and the potential for low-cost/scalable manufacturing' to quote from the contributed article by Nathan Lewis. This roadmap focuses on solar-to-fuel conversion, solar water splitting, solar photovoltaics and bio-catalysis. It includes dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), perovskite solar cells, and organic photovoltaics. Smart engineering of colloidal quantum materials and nanostructured electrodes will improve solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency, as described in the articles by Waiskopf and Banin and Meyer. Semiconductor nanoparticles will also improve solar energy conversion efficiency, as discussed by Boschloo et al in their article on DSSCs. Perovskite solar cells have advanced rapidly in recent years, including new ideas on 2D and 3D hybrid halide perovskites, as described by Spanopoulos et al 'Next generation' solar cells using multiple exciton generation (MEG) from hot carriers, described in the article by Nozik and Beard, could lead to remarkable improvement in photovoltaic efficiency by using quantization effects in semiconductor nanostructures (quantum dots, wires or wells). These challenges will not be met without simultaneous improvement in nanoscale characterization methods. Terahertz spectroscopy, discussed in the article by Milot et al is one example of a method that is overcoming the difficulties associated with nanoscale materials characterization by avoiding electrical contacts to nanoparticles, allowing characterization during device operation, and enabling characterization of a single nanoparticle. Besides experimental advances, computational science is also meeting the challenges of nanomaterials synthesis. The article by Kohlstedt and Schatz discusses the computational frameworks being used to predict structure-property relationships in materials and devices, including machine learning methods, with an emphasis on organic photovoltaics. The contribution by Megarity and Armstrong presents the 'electrochemical leaf' for improvements in electrochemistry and beyond. In addition, biohybrid approaches can take advantage of efficient and specific enzyme catalysts. These articles present the nanoscience and technology at the forefront of renewable energy development that will have significant benefits to society.

REALMS study: real-world effectiveness and safety of fingolimod in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in Portugal.

BACKGROUND: Fingolimod, an oral sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator, is approved by EMA for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness and safety of fingolimod in patients with RRMS in real-world clinical practice in Portugal. METHODS: Retrospective, multicentre, non-interventional study, reporting 3 years follow-up of data collected from October 2015 to July 2016. Sociodemographic data and previous treatments at baseline and data regarding disease evolution, including number of relapses, annualised relapse rates (ARR) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), were collected. RESULTS: Two-hundred and seventy-five participants were enrolled in the REALMS study. Results showed that the main reason to switch to fingolimod was failure of previous treatment (56.7%) and only 3.6% were naïve patients. In the total population, there was a significant decrease in ARR of 64.6% in the first year of treatment, 79.7% in the second year and 82.3% in the third year, compared with baseline. More than 67.0% of patients had no relapses during the 3 years after switching to fingolimod. EDSS remained stable throughout the study. CONCLUSIONS: Therapy with fingolimod showed a sustained effectiveness and safety over the 3 years, particularly on patients switched from first-line drugs (BRACE). No new safety issues were reported.

A 3D printed microliquid jet with an adjustable nozzle diameter.

Microliquid jets have many applications, in particular in the fields of spectroscopy/analysis of samples susceptible to beam damage. Herein, we report a microliquid jet, manufactured with 3D printing technology, with a tuneable nozzle diameter output. This strategy increases the breadth of techniques that can be covered with a single microliquid jet.

High energy resolution off-resonant spectroscopy for x-ray absorption spectra free of self-absorption effects.

X-ray emission spectra recorded in the off-resonant regime carry information on the density of unoccupied states. It is known that by employing the Kramers-Heisenberg formalism, the high energy resolution off-resonant spectroscopy (HEROS) is equivalent to the x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) technique and provides the same electronic state information. Moreover, in the present Letter we demonstrate that the shape of HEROS spectra is not modified by self-absorption effects. Therefore, in contrast to the fluorescence-based XAS techniques, the recorded shape of the spectra is independent of the sample concentration or thickness. The HEROS may thus be used as an experimental technique when precise information about specific absorption features and their strengths is crucial for chemical speciation or theoretical evaluation.

Amazonian fermentations: an analysis of industrial and social technology as tools for the development of bioeconomy in the region.

This review article explores the potential of fermentations in the Amazon region as catalysts for economic and social development. It highlights the rich cultural and gastronomic diversity of the Amazon, focusing on indigenous fermented products. Two main products, tucupi and caxiri, are discussed in detail, emphasizing their significance in local cuisine and culture. The review examines the challenges and opportunities for industrial applications of these products, as well as their potential for social technology initiatives, particularly in the context of family farming. The sustainable production of native fermented products in the Amazon is seen as a means to preserve biodiversity, empower local communities, and promote cultural heritage. The article concludes that both industrial and social technologies have complementary roles in promoting economic growth, cultural preservation, and the well-being of the Amazon region, making it a promising hub for innovative and sustainable fermented food products on a global scale.

A novel microdeletion syndrome at 3q13.31 characterised by developmental delay, postnatal overgrowth, hypoplastic male genitals, and characteristic facial features.

BACKGROUND: Congenital deletions affecting 3q11q23 have rarely been reported and only five cases have been molecularly characterised. Genotype-phenotype correlation has been hampered by the variable sizes and breakpoints of the deletions. In this study, 14 novel patients with deletions in 3q11q23 were investigated and compared with 13 previously reported patients. METHODS: Clinical data were collected from 14 novel patients that had been investigated by high resolution microarray techniques. Molecular investigation and updated clinical information of one cytogenetically previously reported patient were also included. RESULTS: The molecular investigation identified deletions in the region 3q12.3q21.3 with different boundaries and variable sizes. The smallest studied deletion was 580 kb, located in 3q13.31. Genotype-phenotype comparison in 24 patients sharing this shortest region of overlapping deletion revealed several common major characteristics including significant developmental delay, muscular hypotonia, a high arched palate, and recognisable facial features including a short philtrum and protruding lips. Abnormal genitalia were found in the majority of males, several having micropenis. Finally, a postnatal growth pattern above the mean was apparent. The 580 kb deleted region includes five RefSeq genes and two of them are strong candidate genes for the developmental delay: DRD3 and ZBTB20. CONCLUSION: A newly recognised 3q13.31 microdeletion syndrome is delineated which is of diagnostic and prognostic value. Furthermore, two genes are suggested to be responsible for the main phenotype.

Left fallopian tube primitive serous adenocarcinoma presenting as a cardiac tamponade - a case report and review of literature.

A 61-year-old woman presented to the emergency room complaining of anterior left thoracic pain and shortness of breath even after minor efforts. Her previous medical history was unremarkable. Pulmonary angiographic tomography showed a moderate bilateral pleural effusion that had collapsed inferior lung lobes, a large pericardial effusion, and several enlarged lymph nodes in the anterior mediastinum. Echocardiogram (ECG) showed a considerable pericardial effusion with some degree of heart function impairment. Pericardiocentesis and thoracocentesis revealed neoplastic cells in both pericardial and pleural fluids. Abdominal and pelvic ultrasound showed a complex cystic mass with a 13-cm diameter located at left adnexal region and another complex cystic tumor with five-cm diameter at right adnexal region, with small amount of peritoneal effusion. Surgical staging was performed. Pathologic diagnosis was primitive left fallopian tube serous adenocarcinoma with peritubal involvement and multiple peritoneal and lymphatic metastases (FIGO Stage IV; TNM pT3c M1). Chemotherapy was initiated. Death occurred 25 months after diagnosis, with secondary dissemination (breast and lung). No recurrence of pericardial effusion was registered after chemotherapy, suggesting a high susceptibility of pericardial metastasis.

[Actual adherence to dimethyl fumarate in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis]. / Adhesión real al dimetilfumarato en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurological disease with numerous disease-modifying treatments available, including dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a first-line therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Although rates of discontinuation of DMF are generally low in clinical trials, non-adherence to treatment is associated with poorer clinical outcomes. Assessing real-world adherence and predictive factors is critical to be able to improve clinical outcomes for patients. This study evaluated adherence to DMF over 24 months in a cohort of patients treated in a Portuguese healthcare centre. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective, non-interventional, single-centre study with 24 months' follow-up was conducted. The study included adult patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treated with DMF in routine clinical practice. Adherence to DMF was calculated and patients were considered to have adhered if the value was above 80%. Clinical and socio-demographic variables were compared between groups. RESULTS: Of the 80 patients included, 74% were women, with a mean age of 39 years and a mean age of 32 years at diagnosis. Twenty-six patients had not received any previous treatment. Adherence varied between 93, 82 and 87.5% at 6, 12 and 24 months, respectively. No differences were found between patients who had not received any prior treatment and those who had been treated. CONCLUSION: This real-world analysis showed significant adherence to DMF treatment by Portuguese patients over a period of two years. However, these results must be interpreted in the light of the substantial changes in outpatient consultations and the various periodic restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which had an important effect on patient follow-up and data collection.

TITLE: Adhesión real al dimetilfumarato en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente.Introducción. La esclerosis múltiple es una enfermedad neurológica crónica con numerosos tratamientos modificadores de la enfermedad disponibles, incluido el dimetilfumarato (DMF), una terapia de primera línea para la esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente. Aunque las tasas de discontinuación del DMF suelen ser bajas en los ensayos clínicos, la falta de adhesión al tratamiento se asocia con peores resultados clínicos. Evaluar la adhesión en el mundo real y los factores predictivos es fundamental para mejorar los resultados clínicos de los pacientes. Este estudio evaluó la adhesión al DMF durante 24 meses en una cohorte de pacientes tratados en un centro portugués. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio prospectivo no intervencionista, de un solo centro, con un seguimiento de 24 meses. El estudio incluyó a pacientes adultos con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente tratados con DMF en la práctica clínica habitual. Se calculó la adhesión al DMF y se consideró que los pacientes eran adherentes si el valor estaba por encima del 80%. Se compararon variables clínicas y sociodemográficas entre grupos. Resultados. De los 80 pacientes incluidos, el 74% eran mujeres, con una edad media de 39 años y una edad media en el momento del diagnóstico de 32 años. Veintiséis pacientes no habían recibido tratamiento previo. La adhesión varió entre el 93, el 82 y el 87,5% a los 6, 12 y 24 meses, respectivamente. No se encontraron diferencias entre los pacientes que no habían recibido tratamiento previo y los que sí lo habían recibido. Conclusión. Este análisis en el mundo real mostró una adhesión significativa al tratamiento con DMF durante dos años por parte de los pacientes portugueses. No obstante, estos resultados deben interpretarse considerando los cambios sustanciales en las consultas externas y las diversas restricciones periódicas debidas a la pandemia de COVID-19, que afectaron en gran medida al seguimiento de los pacientes y a la recopilación de datos.

X-ray spectroscopy station for sample characterization at ELI Beamlines.

X-ray spectroscopy is a demanded tool across multiple user communities. Here we report on a new station for X-ray emission spectroscopy at the Extreme Light Infrastructure Beamlines Facility. The instrument utilizes the von Hamos geometry and works with a number of different sample types, notably including liquid systems. We demonstrate a simple and reliable method for source position control using two cameras. This approach addresses energy calibration dependence on sample position, which is a characteristic source of measurement uncertainty for wavelength dispersive spectrometers in XES arrangement. We also present a straightforward procedure for energy calibration of liquid and powder samples to a thin film reference. The developed instrumentation enabled us to perform the first experimental determination of the Kα lines of liquidized K3Fe(CN)6 as well as powdered and liquidized FeNH4(SO4)2. Finally, we report on proof-of-principle use of a colliding jet liquid sample delivery system in an XES experiment.

Capture-recapture as a potentially useful procedure for assessing prevalence of multiple sclerosis: methodologic exercise using Portuguese data.

BACKGROUND: Capture-recapture methods (CRMs) are well established in epidemiologic surveillance and considered useful for the task of correcting for case-finding limitations in multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence surveys. To date, however, CRMs have been exclusively applied to crude prevalence figures. This study therefore sought to explore an age-specific application of this method to an urban Portuguese population of 229,342. METHODS: We used a CRM to correct for the age-specific prevalence of MS obtained from two data sources, i.e. general practitioners in three primary-care districts and a neurology unit at the referral hospital. The corrected figures were adjusted for age using the European standard population as reference. RESULTS: When applied to 95 MS patients, the CRM impact was highest at ages 50-59 years, with a 110% increase in cases where the corrected prevalence was highest, i.e. 181.8 (95% CI 75.7-287.9) per 100,000, and lowest, nil, at ages ≥70 years, with an unchanged corrected prevalence of 13.8. The crude prevalence of 41.4 per 100,000 increased by 36% to 56.20 per 100,000 when it was CRM- and age-adjusted. Source independence was poor. CONCLUSIONS: CRMs can be differentially applied to MS counts. Valid comparisons may require simultaneous adjustment for age and other variables, such as diagnostic delay and diagnostic criteria. CRM applications to crude figures and dependent sources should be approached with caution.

Comparative protein binding of taxotere and SID530, a new docetaxel formulation with hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin, in human plasma in vitro.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the plasma-protein binding of docetaxel in two different formulations, Taxotere and SID530, a new docetaxel formulation with hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HP-beta-CD), in human plasma in vitro, using equilibrium dialysis. Unbound docetaxel concentration in the human plasma was determined by LC-MS/MS analysis. SID530 showed a plasma-protein binding profile comparable to that of Taxotere in the clinically relevant concentration range of docetaxel. In both formulations, the unbound fraction of docetaxel increased in a concentration-dependent biphasic manner. The resulting data indicate that the excipient used in SID530, HP-beta-CD, generates similar effects as polysorbate 80 of Taxotere in terms of plasma-protein binding of docetaxel.

Association between selected socio demographic variables and musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by dentists in a southern Karnataka district.

BACKGROUND: The majority of working dentists experience some type of musculoskeletal discomfort during the course of their professional career. The prevalence and location of musculoskeletal symptoms are influenced by work habits, postures adopted by dentists while performing their professional work and socio demographic variables. OBJECTIVES: The current study was carried out to find the association between musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by dentists and selected socio demographic variables in a southern Karnataka district. METHODS: For this study 300 dentists were selected by using convenience sampling method among post graduate dental students, faculty members and private practitioners with more than one year of experience from in and around Mangalore city. In order to find the association, a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire - Musculoskeletal Disorder Rating Scale was used. RESULTS: The study showed that there was statistically significant association between frequency of pain and average patient(s) treated per day. The association between intensity of pain and average patient(s) treated per day was highly significant. Further there was a significant association between intensity of pain and field of dental practice. With regard to the field of dental practice, frequency of stiffness was significantly associated with the age. The association between frequency of stiffness and no. of year(s) in profession was highly significant. CONCLUSION: The study revealed a significant association between musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by the dentists and socio demographic variables like; age, field of dental practice, no. of years in profession and average patients treated per day.

Interlocking design, programmable laser manufacturing and testing for architectured ceramics.

Tough and impact-resistant ceramic systems offer a wide range of remarkable opportunities beyond those offered by the conventional brittle ceramics. However, despite their promise, the availability of traditional manufacturing technique for fabricating such advanced ceramic structures in a highly controllable and scalable manner poses a significant manufacturing bottleneck. In this study, a precise and programmable laser manufacturing system was used to manufacture topologically interlocking ceramics. This manufacturing strategy offers feasible mechanisms for a precise material architecture and quantitative process control, particularly when scalability is considered. An optimized material removal method that approaches near-net shaping was employed to fabricate topologically interlocking ceramic systems (load-carrying assemblies of building blocks interacting by contact and friction) with different architectures (i.e., interlocking angles and building block sizes) subjected to low-velocity impact conditions. These impacts were evaluated using 3D digital image correlation. The optimal interlocked ceramics exhibited a higher deformation (up to 310%) than the other interlocked ones advantageous for flexible protections. Their performance was tuned by controlling the interlocking angle and block size, adjusting the frictional sliding, and minimizing damage to the building blocks. In addition, the developed subtractive manufacturing technique leads to the fabrication of tough, impact-resistant, damage-tolerant ceramic systems with excellent versatility and scalability.

Extreme subcutaneous, intramuscular and inhaled insulin resistance treated by pancreas transplantation alone.

Diabetes mellitus with resistance to insulin administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly (DRIASM) is a rare syndrome and is usually treated with continuous intravenous insulin infusion. We present here two cases of DRIASM in 16 and 18 years female patients that were submitted to pancreas transplantation alone (PTA). Both were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as young children and had labile glycemic control with recurrent episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis. They had prolonged periods of hospitalization and complications related to their central venous access. Exocrine and endocrine drainages were in the bladder and systemic, respectively. Both presented immediate graft function. In patient 1, enteric conversion was necessary due to reflux pancreatitis. Patient 2 developed mild postoperative hyperglycemia in spite of having normal pancreas allograft biopsy and that was attributed to her immunosuppressive regimen. Patient 1 died 9 months after PTA from septic shock related to pneumonia. In 8 months of follow-up, Patient 2 presented optimal glycemic control without the use of antidiabetic agents. In conclusion, PTA may be an alternative treatment for DRIASM patients.

The MEE principle in data classification: a perceptron-based analysis.

This letter focuses on the issue of whether risk functionals derived from information-theoretic principles, such as Shannon or Rényi's entropies, are able to cope with the data classification problem in both the sense of attaining the risk functional minimum and implying the minimum probability of error allowed by the family of functions implemented by the classifier, here denoted by min Pe. The analysis of this so-called minimization of error entropy (MEE) principle is carried out in a single perceptron with continuous activation functions, yielding continuous error distributions. In spite of the fact that the analysis is restricted to single perceptrons, it reveals a large spectrum of behaviors that MEE can be expected to exhibit in both theory and practice. In what concerns the theoretical MEE, our study clarifies the role of the parameters controlling the perceptron activation function (of the squashing type) in often reaching the minimum probability of error. Our study also clarifies the role of the kernel density estimator of the error density in achieving the minimum probability of error in practice.

Logistics reorganization and management of the ambulatory pharmacy of a local health unit in Portugal.

The Hospital Pharmacy of a Local Health Unit (LHU) in greater Oporto plays a major role in the community. In addition to providing medicines to the entire Internal Unit, it has created a service called "Hospital Ambulatory Pharmacy", which allows continued hospital treatments at home, in a more comfortable and familiar environment. This is mostly due uderfunding which has hindered recruitment of health professionals as well a growing concern for the comfort of patients as they convalesce. The Hospital Ambulatory Pharmacy's main problems are both recurring stock-outs and over-stocks; the fact that medicines's delivery routes are not completed, and that medical staff lacks awareness of the techniques to overcome the logistic issues involved. As a methodology, a context analysis was carried out, KPI's were created to quantify the problems and raise health professionals' awareness of what was happening. Solutions for storage were analysed and visits were made to a central hospital to analyse the solutions adopted to solve the same problems. The most appropriate inventory management policies were considered for the organization of existing and further resources. We chose to create an Advanced Warehouse with Level Replenishment. The levels were defined considering the demand of each medicine and divided into three different classes to use the best strategy for each type of demand. Then, and with the help of the LHU IT team, the inventory management module of the information system was parameterized, so stock replenishment could be done electronically. All these changes resulted in a 30 % reduction in stock-out. At the beginning of the study, stock-outs would reach peaks of 6 %. These were reduced to 4.5 % at a point at which professionals were already more aware of the logistic problem, and finally to 1.5 %, in the final phase, at a time when the proposal had already been implemented. Over-stock was reduced by 66 %. Delivery routes were stipulated, and compliance was verified. A novel service developed to increase the well-being of patients monitored at home which it is intended to improve the service provided to the users and at the same time reduce operational costs. As a contribution to the knowledge, in addition to the case study presented to be a novelty in terms of scientific articles published because it is a service implemented in the distribution of medications to patients at home, mostly with oncologic diseases. Several methods from Lean Thinking were used, such as, Kanban System and Advanced Warehouse for inventory management levelling and optimization techniques, as well as, operational KPIs, with the purpose to reach out the improvement of program planning and evaluation. This approach resulted in some improvements, namely, the increase of the quality of the healthcare services for the population. And, in terms to reduce stock and excess stock-outs, to reduce inventory costs, setting the delivery routes, raising the entire medical team's awareness of the problem and committing to optimization a reality.

A metal-free blue chromophore derived from plant pigments.

Blue natural pigments are rare, especially among plants. However, flowering species that evolved to attract Hymenoptera pollinators are colored by blue anthocyanin-metal complexes. Plants lacking anthocyanins are pigmented by betalains but are unable to produce blue hues. By extending the π-system of betalains, we designed a photostable and metal-free blue dye named BeetBlue that did not show toxicity to human hepatic and retinal pigment epithelial cells and does not affect zebrafish embryonal development. This chiral dye can be conveniently synthesized from betalamic acid obtained from hydrolyzed red beetroot juice or by enzymatic oxidation of l-dopa. BeetBlue is blue in the solid form and in solution of acidified polar molecular solvents, including water. Its capacity to dye natural matrices makes BeetBlue the prototype of a new class of low-cost bioinspired chromophores suitable for a myriad of applications requiring a blue hue.

Barbatic acid from Cladia aggregata (lichen): Cytotoxicity and in vitro schistosomicidal evaluation and ultrastructural analysis against adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni.

Schistosomiasis is one of the most significant neglected tropical diseases, affecting around 260 million people worldwide, and Praziquantel is currently the only available drug for the treatment of infected persons. Thus, the search for new schistosomicidal compounds is urgent. The objective of this study was to investigate of the schistosomicidal effect of barbatic acid, a lichen metabolite, on adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni. The in vitro schistosomicidal effect was evaluated through the assessment of motility and mortality, cellular viability of the worms and ultrastructural analysis through scanning electron microscopy. To evaluate the cytotoxicity of barbatic acid, a cell viability assay was performed with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Barbatic acid showed a schistosomicidal effect after 3 h of exposure. At the end of 24 h the concentrations of 50-200 µM presented lethality on the worms. Motility changes were observed at sublethal concentrations. The IC50 obtained by the cell viability assay for S. mansoni was 99.43 µM. Extensive damage to the worm's tegument was observed from 25 µM. No cytotoxicity was observed on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. This report provides data showing the schistosomicidal effect of barbatic acid on S. mansoni, causing death, motility changes and ultrastructural damage to worms. In addition, barbatic acid was shown to be non-toxic to human peripheral blood mononuclear cells at concentrations that are effective against S. mansoni.