Abstract The presence of non-native species is one of the primary drivers of biodiversity loss, disrupting the ecological processes that sustain complex interactions among organisms. Their expansion in freshwater environments is an alarming phenomenon, demanding continuous investigation to map spatiotemporal patterns, assess ecological impacts, forecast future scenarios, and identify strategic areas for intervention to prevent uncontrolled invasions. In the Triângulo Mineiro and Alto Paranaíba (TMAP) region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, non-native species pose an increasing threat. In freshwater systems such as the upper Paraná River basin, the introduction of non-native species is known to alter ecological interactions, disrupt trophic networks, and compromise the persistence of native ichthyofauna. The major tributaries of this basin in the TMAP region, the Paranaíba and Grande rivers, are potentially facing these significant ecological threats. This study investigates the occurrence patterns and spatiotemporal distribution of non-native fish species in the TMAP rivers over the past five decades. We compiled an inventory of non-native fish species in the Paranaíba and Grande rivers, whose tributaries traverse the TMAP, and analyzed geospatial patterns to identify rivers with the highest spatial densities and the temporal trends in species expansion over time. Our inventory revealed 45 non-native fish species present in TMAP rivers, with particularly high occurrences of Cichla spp. (peacock bass), Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia), and Poecilia reticulata (guppy), all characterized by wide spatial distributions and high densities. Our analysis also identified invasion hotspots in key tributaries of the Paranaíba and Grande rivers. Among them, the Araguari, Uberabinha, and lower Tijuco (Paranaíba), and the Claro and São João (Grande) emerged as epicenters of invasion in the TMAP. Although historical records show fluctuations in the abundance of non-native species over the past five decades, a marked trend of rapid expansion, particularly since the 2000s, has been observed. In light of this scenario, conserving the native ichthyofauna of the TMAP requires effective control strategies for non-native species and sustained scientific monitoring in critical areas, especially in the identified invasion hotspots of the Paranaíba River Basin.

ABSTRACTBackgroundCandida (Candidozyma) auris is an emerging yeast that poses a significant global health threat due to its multidrug resistance and ability to cause healthcare‐associated outbreaks. Genomic surveillance is essential for monitoring spread, transmission and antifungal resistance.ObjectivesTo report the first identification and genomic characterisation of C. auris in the state of Minas Gerais, Southeast Brazil, and to investigate the genetic origin and diversity, resistance‐associated mutations, and potential transmission dynamics during a hospital outbreak.MethodsEight C. auris isolates were collected during a hospital outbreak in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, including clinical samples from patients and environmental samples from surfaces in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Epidemiological investigation, whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) and phylogenomic analyses were conducted to determine circulating clade, genetic diversity, outbreak origin and the presence of antifungal resistance mutations.ResultsAll isolates were classified as clade IV and exhibited high genomic similarity to strains previously reported in northern Colombia (Caribbean coast). One isolate carried the ERG11 Y132F mutation, associated with fluconazole resistance, but this mutation was absent in another isolate from the same patient collected 1 day earlier, indicating mixed fungal populations. Environmental isolates clustered tightly with clinical strains, supporting surface‐mediated transmission in the ICU.ConclusionsThis study describes the introduction and local spread of clade IV C. auris in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The findings underscore the critical role of genomic surveillance in identifying resistance mechanisms, tracing transmission pathways and guiding public health responses.

Objective: To analyze the economic, technical, and environmental feasibility of implementing a photovoltaic power plant in a private higher education institution (HEI) located in the state of Minas Gerais, comparing its results with those of a public institution that already operates a photovoltaic system, IFSULDEMINAS. Theoretical Framework: This research is grounded in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with emphasis on SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, as well as studies on sustainability in higher education institutions, environmental management, renewable energy sources, and the economic and financial feasibility of photovoltaic systems. Method: Data were collected from the private HEI and from IFSULDEMINAS covering the period from 2021 to 2024, in addition to the analysis of economic indicators such as Payback, Net Present Value (NPV), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), as well as estimates of environmental impacts. Results and Discussion: The implementation of the photovoltaic plant is economically viable in both institutions, with a payback period of less than eight years and an IRR higher than the minimum acceptable rate of return. A higher financial return was observed in the higher education institution (due to its greater energy demand) and a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions. Research Implications: The study provides support for energy planning and the adoption of sustainable practices in higher education institutions, contributing to strategic decision-making and sustainability policies. Originality/Value: The study contributes to the literature by comparatively addressing the feasibility of photovoltaic energy in public and private higher education institutions, an area still underexplored in the national context, reinforcing the relevance of clean energy in the education sector.

The Municipal Sustainable Development Health Index (MSDHI) was developed to monitor achieving health-related targets outlined in the 2030 Agenda. This study aims to support effective, comprehensive, and context-sensitive policy formulation at the local level by developing a local index that accounts for regional health inequalities. The study addresses critical gaps in existing health equity assessments at the municipal level, where disparities exist in health outcomes due to regional inequalities. This article presents a methodological framework for calculating the index, based on secondary administrative data from various public information systems in Brazil. The MSDHI was estimated for all 5,570 Brazilian municipalities for the period from 2018 to 2022. Its construction followed a systematic eight-step procedure, ensuring consistency and reliability of the results. The municipal index combines multiple health-related indicators: values equal to 1 indicate the best national results, whereas values close to 0 indicate a greater distance from the best outcomes. The same interpretation applies to the thematic indexes: (1) Reproductive and maternal health, (2) Newborn and child health, (3) Infectious diseases, (4) non-communicable diseases, (5) Injuries and violence, (6) Environmental risks, and (7) Universal health coverage and health systems. The results of the MSDHI and its thematic indexes were classified in three tiers: Tier 1 (0 to 0.40) - insufficient; Tier 2 (0.41 to 0.69) - moderated; and Tier 3 (0.70 to 1.00) - adequate. The construct evaluation indicated positive correlations with life expectancy, HDI-M, IDB, and GDP, and a negative correlation with mortality rate. However, the magnitude of the correlations was low, suggesting that the MSDHI may be capturing additional dimensions beyond those reflected in the selected indicators. An applicability assessment was performed for the municipalities of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, indicating that the municipal index and the thematic indexes can identify sustainable health scenarios and highlight areas of inequality. The MSDHI is a valuable tool for local governments and policymakers to effectively implement the 2030 Agenda. Future studies should focus on developing an annual index and integrating the MSDHI into policy prioritization methods.

Outreach projects offer a valuable opportunity for students and professionals to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice, develop interpersonal skills, and contribute to the well-being of society. In this context, the Rehabilitation Outreach Program aims to expand and improve healthcare practices for people with ostomies. In collaboration with the Minas Gerais State Secretariat and the Coordination of Health Care for People with Ostomies, the Program organized the Central-West Minas Gerais Meeting on Health Care for People with Ostomies, held in Divinópolis, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. This event represented a significant commitment to improving healthcare practices for people with ostomies in the region, as well as providing a space for awareness raising, knowledge sharing, and discussion of strategies to improve the quality of life for these patients.

This text is an experience report of an educational health action developed in Sabiá Park, in the city of Uberlândia, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The action was developed by students and teachers from the Academic League of Cardiovascular Diseases, part of the Nursing Undergraduate Program at the Federal University of Uberlândia. This action was designed to be based on World Heart Day, celebrated on September 29th. The main objective was to educate the population about the appropriate use of sodium in their diet, using herbal salt as a resource, aiming to prevent and control high blood pressure – the main modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Posters, pamphlets, brochures, and cards were used as educational materials. In addition, blood pressure was measured, and samples of herbal salt were distributed. In general, there was great participation and interest from the population in educational action, especially regarding the recipe and use of herbal salt.

Only a few records of pigmentation anomalies, particularly hypopigmentation conditions such as albinism, have been reported among Neotropical non-human primates. In Brazil, there are only 14 documented cases of pigmentation anomalies, with just two instances of albinism recorded within the Cebidae family. To our knowledge, no pigmentation polymorphisms have been documented in the Pitheciidae family to date. In this study, we report the first documented case of albinism in Callicebus nigrifrons (the black-fronted titi monkey) within the largest remnant of the Atlantic Forest in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. This observation was made using a drone equipped with 4K cameras and thermal infrared sensors. This primate exhibited characteristics such as the absence of pigmentation in its fur, as well as in its palms of its hands and feet, and dark red eyes. It was observed in a group composed of two other individuals displaying typical coloration. The group's behavior was normal, showing no signs of exclusion toward the albino individual. Potential causes of albinism in C. nigrifrons may include genetic or environmental factors, or combined pressures, though these remain speculative. This is the first confirmed case of albinism in the Pitheciidae family and the first record of such a phenomenon using drone technology in the wild. Our findings underscore the potential of drones for detecting low-frequency phenotypic traits in elusive species and reinforce the role of protected areas such as the Rio Doce State Park in safeguarding threatened and genetically distinct individuals.

A new species of pearl cichlid of the 'Geophagus' brasiliensis species group, endemic to the Piranga River, a major tributary of the upper Doce River basin in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, is herein described. The new species is delimited using an integrative approach, with molecular-based species delimitation methods coupled with morphological diagnosis. For this, we developed a matrix containing 27 sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of species of the 'G.' brasiliensis species group obtained from GenBank and three new sequences generated in this work. The species delimitation method applied to the morphological characters was Population Aggregation Analysis (PAA), and the species delimitation methods applied to the nucleotide sequences were the branch coalescence methods: Bayesian Poisson Tree Processes (bPTP), General Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) single-threshold and GMYC multi-threshold. The three molecular-based species delimitation methods corroborate that the haplotypes of 'Geophagus' from the Piranga River represent a new species distinguished from all other in the 'G.' brasiliensis species group by exclusive presence of clear, rounded spots in the posteriormost dorsal-fin rays in fixed adult specimens, and the combination of the following morphological characters: long snout (46.22%-52.74% of head length), tall head (94.08%-101.15% of head length), terminal mouth, 25 or 26 longitudinal scales on the E0 series, 14 or 15 spines on the dorsal fin, absence of bluish dots on the most anterior soft rays of the anal fin in live specimens and absence of bluish and longitudinal lines in the basal region of the caudal fin of live specimens. This work is the first description of a new species of the 'G.' brasiliensis species group from the Doce River basin.

Objective To assess whether hospitalizations due to stroke were associated with Chagas disease and the Chagas disease vulnerability index in the state of Minas Gerais. Methods This was a population-based analytical observational study. Data were obtained from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian National Health System in Minas Gerais for the year 2022. Hospitalization records were selected based on the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, in which stroke was recorded as the primary cause and Chagas disease/sentinels as the secondary cause. Stroke-related hospitalization rates were estimated, and a correlation analysis was conducted between the Chagas disease vulnerability index and stroke hospitalization prevalence in Minas Gerais and its health macro-regions. Results In 2022, a total of 25,813 hospitalizations due to stroke as the primary cause were recorded, of which only 18 included Chagas disease/sentinels as the secondary cause, most of them in the Central macro-region (n=10). The correlation between stroke-related hospitalizations and the Chagas disease vulnerability index was weak (r=0.145) and not statistically significant, despite the overlap of macro-regions with higher stroke-related hospitalization rates and higher Chagas disease vulnerability index scores (Jequitinhonha Valley and North). Conclusion Although there was a high number of stroke-related hospitalizations in the Brazilian National Health System in Minas Gerais, only 18 of these records were associated with Chagas disease/sentinels, which may suggest underreporting of Chagas disease and uncertainty regarding the quality of such records.

The study aims to analyze the police assistance provided to the LGBTQI+ population in police approaches. Through diversified bibliographical research, after contextualization and presentation of terms and concepts, the importance of establishing, in the State of Minas Gerais, a care protocol that involves and respects the specificities of this social group is presented. The activity of the Military Police must meet the principle of human dignity and, certainly, the enhancement of public safety, through the promotion of social well-being and the free exercise of citizenship. As a result of the study, it is important to note the importance and urgency of applying normative instructions that guide police action towards the LGBTQI+ public, enabling ethical and excellent service, which contributes to the eradication of discriminatory behavior and the revictimization of this portion. of the mining population.

The Cerrado is Brazil's second largest biome and the most biodiverse savannah in the world. This biome has several phytophysiognomies, with many fruit trees. Among the trees of the Cerrado is the pequi tree (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.), with fruit known as pequi. The pequi is a fruit of great socio-economic and cultural importance for the region and for Brazil. In addition to its cultural and economic importance, pequi stands out for its rich chemical composition, containing carotenoids such as β-carotene, phytosterols, flavonoids, phenolic acids and tocopherols. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties, as well as cardiovascular, neuroprotective and immunological benefits, reinforcing their functional and sustainable value in the Cerrado. The aim of this study was therefore to carry out a qualitative study of pequi through semi-structured interviews with rural producers in selected municipalities in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. It was clear that the farmers interviewed consume pequi frequently, especially during the harvest season. For the most part, the consumption of pequi by the interviewees is related to its flavour, aroma, beneficial health properties and cultural aspects. The producers recognise pequi as an environmentally friendly fruit and are concerned about deforestation in the Cerrado.

Coral reefs biodiversity and productivity are currently in decline due to the impacts of human activities, especially those associated with chemical pollutants, including metals. In this context, iron (Fe) contamination of coastal waters associated with land runoff and disasters associated with mining activities has drawn attention around the globe, especially in the Southern Atlantic coast. Fe is an essential metal involved in photosynthesis, respiration, and oxidative metabolism, which can thus influence parameters associated with photosynthesis and the activity of ATPases. Therefore, we evaluated the acute and chronic effects of Fe on the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II and carbonic anhydrase and Ca2+-ATPase activities in three corals species: Mussismilia harttii, Siderastrea sp., and Millepora alcicornis. Corals were maintained in control condition (no Fe addition in seawater) and acutely (4 days—laboratory conditions) or chronically (up to 28 days—mesocosm conditions) exposed to different increments of Fe (0.1, 0.3, and 0.9 mg L−1) in seawater. The tested concentrations were selected based on the range of total and dissolved Fe concentrations observed in seawater in reef environments of the South Atlantic Ocean after the collapse of the Fundão mine dam occurred in Mariana (state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil) in 2015. In the acute and chronic experiments, three and four replicates were performed for each experimental condition, respectively. In the acute exposure, all biological parameters were measured after 4 days of exposure. In the chronic exposure, the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II was measured at 5, 10, 17, and 24 days of exposure while enzyme activities were analyzed at 14 and 28 days of exposure. Results indicated that the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II was decreased by 20.5% (p < 0.05) in Mi. alcicornis exposed for 17 days to 0.1 mg L−1 Fe, when compared to the control condition at the same experimental time. Along the experimental time, it was decreased (p < 0.05) by 19.8% and 20.9% in Mu. harttii exposed for 24 days to 0.3 and 0.9 mg L−1 Fe, respectively. In Mu. harttii, carbonic anhydrase activity was reduced by 31.7% after acute exposure of corals to 0.3 mg L−1 Fe and increased by 102.4% when they were exposed to 0.9 mg L−1 Fe. Also, carbonic anhydrase activity was reduced (p < 0.05) by 62.1% and 54.5% in Mi. alcicornis exposed for 14 days to 0.3 and 0.9 mg L−1 Fe, respectively. After 28 days of Fe exposure, no significant change is CA activity was observed in the three species of corals. Furthermore, Ca2+-ATPase activity of the three coral species was not altered by the Fe increments in seawater, regardless of the exposure time. Overall, our findings indicates that exposure to increments of Fe in seawater influenced the health- (maximum quantum yield of photosystem II) and growth-related (carbonic anhydrase activity) biomarkers evaluated. The observed effects were specific to the three coral species tested and highlight the need to test the impacts of the seawater contamination with Fe over longer exposure periods than those tested in the present study.

This article aimed to report on the process of producing an animated video, using aesthetic and synthetic language, on Good Food Handling Practices (GFHP) and attribution of meanings to the work of food handlers in public educational institutions in a Brazilian metropolis. This process was composed of a survey of conceptions about GFHP and an attribution of meaning to the craft of a representative sample of food handlers in public educational institutions in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, which provided input to produce the video. This study advocates the use of animated video as a strategy with the potential to engender processes that favor the construction of knowledge about GFHP and the attribution of meaning to the craft of food handlers, related to the recognition of their role as educators.

Many countries have been simplifying environmental licensing and environmental impact assessment (EIA) using different tactics, such as granting permits based on mere self-declarations of impacts from proponents. However, few studies, if any, have empirically explored the reliability of these self-declarations. The aim of this study was to analyze the self-declaration of impacts by proponents in simplified licensing and EIA processes, using a sample of projects from the agribusiness sector in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. Data were collected through content analysis and GIS-based spatial analysis of self-declared information in 1790 environmental licensing processes. The results showed several inconsistencies in the self-declared information, especially regarding the size of impacted areas and their overlaps with environmentally restricted areas. Agribusiness projects in Minas Gerais are probably being licensed based on inaccurate and unreliable information. Findings serve as a warning to other national and international jurisdictions that intend to implement similar simplification approaches.

This paper analyzes the challenges of implementing Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management in public security institutions in the state of Minas Gerais, focusing on the Military Police, Civil Police, and Fire Department. Considering the high-risk nature of the activities performed by these professionals, the need for effective structures focused on preventing occupational injuries, promoting health, and valuing workers is evident. The research adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on a documentary analysis of regulatory standards and official data extracted from the Minas Gerais Public Security Yearbook (2024), the Brazilian Public Security Yearbook (2024), the Public Security Map (2024), and the Profile of Public Security Institutions (2023). The results demonstrate institutional weaknesses in compliance with OHS guidelines, a lack of systematized data on police victimization, such as injuries, occupational diseases, and suicide, and a lack of specific training on occupational safety. The regulatory framework for these corporations' activities is also limited, as they are classified as having a risk level inadequate for operational realities. Therefore, we propose unifying state OSH guidelines, reviewing risk classification, including technical content in training courses, and strengthening prevention policies, with an emphasis on mental health and continuous monitoring protocols. OSH management, if implemented with a technical foundation and in line with police realities, represents an essential strategy for preserving life, improving working conditions, and institutional efficiency.

Efficient territorial management is essential for organizations operating in large and heterogeneous environments, such as the Brazilian Post (Correios) in the state of Minas Gerais. The state comprises 853 municipalities with significant geographic diversity, and the current distribution among 13 Regional Management Units shows administrative imbalances and high logistical costs. This study proposes a territorial redistribution model based on Data Science techniques, including spatial analysis, clustering, and logistic optimization. Using tools such as Google Maps Platform – Distance Matrix API, Google OR-Tools, and K-Means clustering, alternative regional scenarios were simulated. Results show a reduction in average distances, improved operational balance, and lower logistical costs. The research demonstrates that computational modeling can support strategic decision-making and enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the postal service network.

Two new species of the Neotropical jumping plant-louse genus Mitrapsylla Crawford (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Psyllidae: Ciriacreminae) are described from the highlands of the state of Minas Gerais in the Southeast Region of Brazil. Both species are associated with Chamaecrista (Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae) and represent the first records of Psylloidea from this plant genus. Chamaecrista, especially its section Absus, has many species endemic to the Cerrado and Caatinga biomes in eastern Brazil. They are characterised by the presence of glandular trichomes that produce sticky secretion that hinders insect mobility and herbivory. Mitrapsylla burckhardtiella sp. nov. is unique within Mitrapsylla because of the long legs and rostrum in the adults and immatures, as well as the details of the tarsus, arolium and claws, the ventral position of the anus, the reduced sectasetae on the caudal plate and the presence of numerous long and thick capitate setae on dorsal sclerites and tubercles in the immatures. These character states are interpreted here as adaptations to living on young leaflets and stems of inflorescences of the densely hairy host plant Chamaecrista ursina, which may help to minimise contact with sticky exudates and camouflage the immatures on the surface of the host plant. In contrast, Mitrapsylla danieli sp. nov. associated with the sparsely haired Chamaecrista hedysaroides lacks these adaptations, and the morphology of adults and immatures is more similar to other Mitrapsylla spp. with non-sticky hosts. The phylogenetic relationships and systematic placement of the two new species within Mitrapsylla and other South American Ciriacreminae are also discussed on the basis of a phylogenetic analysis of the DNA sequences of the mitochondrial COI and cytb gene fragments, which we provide for the first time for four species of Mitrapsylla and two species of Queiroziella Burckhardt. As far as is known, M. burckhardtiella sp. nov. and M. danieli sp. nov. have a limited distribution in the highly diverse but threatened habitats of the Brazilian Cerrado and Campo Rupestre and may be of conservation importance, requiring further study.

Horiola picta (Coquebert, 1801) (Hemiptera: Membracidae) is a secondary pest of Theobroma cacao L. (Malvaceae), a species of cocoa, in several regions of Brazil. It is found in young branches and cocoa fruits, where it lays its eggs in plant tissue, causing damage to plantations. Here, we report the first occurrence of H. picta for the state of Minas Gerais and its first record on Filicium decipiens (Wight & Arn.) Thwaites. Egg masses, nymphs, and adults of H. picta were observed from 2021 to 2024, with increasing colonization over the years. This finding highlights the potential risk of ornamental plants becoming hosts for agricultural pests.

A new species of Psalidodon Eigenmann is described from an ichthyofaunistic poorly known portion of the upper rio Doce basin, in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. The new species is diagnosed and described using an integrative taxonomy approach. Psalidodon canaaensis new species is distinguished from its congeners by an unique combination of character states, which includes: presence of an adipose fin; a complete lateral line with 35–36 perforated scales; six horizontal scale rows between dorsal-fin origin and lateral line, five scales row between lateral line and pelvic-fin origin; 13–14 scales rows around caudal peduncle; presence of a vertically elongated humeral blotch; 18–24 branched anal-fin rays; one or two maxillary teeth bearing 3–5 cusps; males with elongated bony hooks on anal and pelvic fins, one per lepidotrichia segment; and a distinctive coloration pattern of the anal- and caudal- fins, with the anterior portion of the anal-fin olive green, and the caudal-fin greenish from the base to mid-length, followed by light red chromatophores on the distal portion of the fin-rays. A haplotype network, and Maximum Likelihood analysis based on fragments of the Cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene for the new species and some of its congeners highly support it as constituting a separate lineage within Psalidodon. Psalidodon canaaensis has a restricted distribution, inhabiting a high-gradient stream with rapid water flow, subject to anthropogenic pressures. Presently, it is the only species of the genus endemic to the rio Doce basin, emphasizing the importance of surveys in understudied areas.

The nesting substract selection by social wasps is related to the protection of colonies, either against predators or adverse weather conditions. Despite the growing number of studies on nesting, there is still limited information on the use of bromeliad species as substrates for social wasps. Therefore, the aim of this study is to report the use of Tillandsia tenuifolia L. (Bromeliaceae, Tillandsioideae) as nesting substrate for social wasps of the genus Mischocyttarus Saussure, 1853, in a cerrado area in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Eleven colonies of wasps were recorded, including one of Mischocyttarus drewseni Saussure, 1857, three of Mischocyttarus rotundicollis (Cameron, 1912), two of Mischocyttarus mirificus (Zikán, 1935), two of Mischocyttarus wagneri (Buysson 1908), and three of Mischocyttarus sp. This genus of social wasps can build their nests in bromeliads, which protect their nests, either through camouflage or concealment, as a form of indirect defense, and these plants offer ideal conditions for this form of shelter.