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Cover crop nitrogen (N) cycling has an important role in agricultural production and contributes to peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] N nutrition. This study evaluated black oat (Avena strigosa Schreb) and ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum L.) residue decomposition dynamics, N recovery from cover crop residues, and N compartmentalization in peach tree organs. A 2-year field trial was developed with labeled (3.6?4.0 atom% 15N excess) cover crop shoot biomass application in a 5-year-old peach orchard. The region?s climate is warm temperate (Cfb), and the soil is classified as a Typic Hapludalf. Litter bags with unlabeled shoot residues were also deposited in the orchard to assess biomass, carbon (C), N, lignin, cellulose, and non-structural biomass decomposition dynamics. After 13 months, the leaves, trunk, and roots showed the greatest proportion of N derived from residues (Ndfr) (35.4, 25.1, and 22.4%, respectively) while the greatest concentrations of 15N and Ndfr occurred in roots

Background and aim Hibalactone (HB) is a lignan related to the anxiolytic-like effects of Hydrocotyle umbellata L. However, there is a need to understand better the mechanism of action of this lignan to support the ethnopharmacological uses of the species. This work aimed to evaluate by in vivo and in silico analysis the mechanism of action of HB involved in its anxiolytic-like effects. Experimental procedure The effects of HB in mice were evaluated on light-dark box (LDB) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests. The participation of 5-HT1A receptor and the benzodiazepine site of GABAA receptor was evaluated to investigate the possible mechanism of action. In silico tools were used to better elucidate the anxiolytic-like effects of HB. Results Oral treatment with HB at a dose of 33 mg/kg showed an anxiolytic-like effect in the LDB and EPM tests. Besides that, the treatment altered the ethological parameters, frequency of head dips, and stretched-attend postures (SAP), important to better describe the anxiolytic profile of HB. Pretreatment with flumazenil (2 mg/kg) reverted the anxiolytic-like effect of HB on LDB and EPM tests. On the other hand, pretreatment with NAN-190 (0.5 mg/kg) not reverted the activity observed. In silico predictions revealed the potential of HB to increase GABAergic neurotransmission. Pharmacophore modelling and docking simulations showed that HB might interact with the α1β2γ2 GABAA receptor. Conclusion Together, the results presented herein suggest that activation of the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor contributes to the anxiolytic-like effect of HB.

A screening method for zinc levels in different milk samples (raw cow, raw sheep, UHT cow, UHT goat and soybean milk base) was performed to establish the Zn levels' differences in protein samples. The samples were digested in a cavity microwave oven and the total Zn levels in the extracts were determined by flame absorption atomic spectrometry (FAAS). The protein separation was performed by urea polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (UREA-PAGE). Protein bands were digested in the cavity microwave oven and Zn-protein analysis was further conducted by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS). The results showed that Zn is mainly bound to 32 kDa (b-casein) protein (17.0 ± 2.0%) in UHT cow and 24 kDa (a-casein) protein (9.0 ± 0.6%) in raw sheep milk. This method provided quantitative information regarding Zn species present in the protein fractions of the milk samples. The accuracy was evaluated using certified reference material (whole milk powder, NIST 8435) with statistically equivalent concentrations (Student's t-test) for total Zn and by addition and recovery experiments applied to measure Zn-protein. The recovered values were in the 92-110% range. Made available in DSpace on 2021-07-01T19:00:51Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 ZincFractionationCow.pdf: 300396 bytes, checksum: 9c0d5f6e765b2c9996705ff2bb985a87 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2021

Chemical treatment of end-of-life PVC at high temperature often results in the formation of polyacetylene and eventually aromatic char. These insoluble conjugated polymers lead to industrial reactor blockages, and limit the efficiency in recycling chlorinated plastic waste. To address this challenge, a solvent-based tandem dehydrochlorination-hydrogenation process is proposed for the conversion of PVC to a saturated polymer backbone. When combining tetrabutylphosphonium ionic liquids and homogeneous Rh catalysts under H2 pressure, 81% dehydrochlorination is reached in 2 h, with the hydrogenation proceeding smoothly with minimal catalyst use of 0.5-2.0 mol% Rh. This process for PVC dechlorination yields soluble products that lack aromatics, have high degrees of dechlorination and possess a tunable content of double bonds. The chemical structures of the partially unsaturated polymer products and of the different structural motifs in the product are accurately monitored by a liquid 1H-NMR method. Finally, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) sheds light on the catalytic Rh species during the tandem process, which are stabilized by the ionic liquid. This tandem process enables rapid PVC conversion to a saturated organic product, with polyethylene segments giving the opportunity for ensuing recycling steps. ispartof: CHEMICAL SCIENCE vol:14 issue:16 pages:4401-4412 ispartof: location:England status: published

Papaya is a fruit of great economic importance worldwide, but still presents a high rate of postharvest losses. Among the different reasons explaining this phenomenom, intensive labor and inappropriate storage conditions are the main ones. Carnauba wax nanoemulsion (CWN) coating may be an alternative to this problem, preserving postharvest fruit quality. Therefore, an experimental CWN was developed and a set of three trials were conducted to evaluate its performance on storage of papaya fruits solo type. On the first trial, this coating was applied to the fruits at concentrations of 4.5, 9.0, 13.5 and 18.0% compared to control group (fruits coated with water). In a second trial, the best concentrations determined in the first one was used (13.5 and 18.0% respectively). On the last trial, CWN on a high concentration 18% was compared to commercially treated and untreated fruits. Fruits were stored for 12 to 20 days at 16 to 18°C and Relative Humidity upper to 70%. Physicochemical analyzes carried were soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH, weight loss, firmness, color and ethylene production, while postharvest disease incidence and severity was only performed on the last trial. Significant difference was observed on treatments with high CWN concentration (13.5 and 18.0%) in relation to reducing weight loss, delay ripening and decreasing ethylene production compared to untreated, commercial coating and even to low CWN concentrations. For disease severity it was observed a reduction on coated fruits with high CWN concentration when compared to control and commercial coating. CWN has a potential use for extending papaya postharvest shelf life. Made available in DSpace on 2021-12-15T22:17:20Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 ACTA-Carnauba-Wax-Zucchini.pdf: 611914 bytes, checksum: 9a5d97c0e6b8ad39ece503b44c5d1823 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2021 V International Symposium on Postharvest Pathology: From Consumer to Laboratory-Sustainable Approaches to Managing Postharvest Pathogens.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-05-01T10:35:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2022-02-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico The angiogenesis process is a phenomenon in which numerous molecules participate in the stimulation of the new vessels' formation from pre-existing vessels. Angiogenesis is a crucial step in tissue regeneration and recovery of organ and tissue function. Muscle diseases affect millions of people worldwide overcome the ability of skeletal muscle to self-repair. Pro-angiogenic therapies are key in skeletal muscle regeneration where both myogenesis and angiogenesis occur. These therapies have been based on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), exosomes, microRNAs (miRs) and delivery of biological factors. The use of different calls of biomaterials is another approach, including ceramics, composites, and polymers. Natural polymers are use due its bioactivity and biocompatibility in addition to its use as scaffolds and in drug delivery systems. One of these polymers is the natural rubber latex (NRL) which is biocompatible, bioactive, versatile, low-costing, and capable of promoting tissue regeneration and angiogenesis. In this review, the advances in the field of pro-angiogenic therapies are discussed. São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu Medical School, Botucatu National Heart and Lung Institute Imperial College London Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL) Department of Obstetrics Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Department of Physiology Faculty of Pharmacy Universidad de Sevilla University of Queensland, Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, QLD Department of Pathology and Medical Biology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Philosophy and Sciences, Marília Federal Institute of São Paulo (IFSP), Avaré São Paulo State University (UNESP), Science Faculty, Bauru São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu Medical School, Botucatu São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Philosophy and Sciences, Marília São Paulo State University (UNESP), Science Faculty, Bauru São Paulo State University (UNESP), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico: 1190316 FAPESP: 2016/01743-5 FAPESP: 2017/21783-4

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional composition (fat, total protein, casein, defatted dry extract, total solids and vitamin A), refractometry and pH of Jersey cow colostrum and correlations between Brix degree and colostrum constituents. Colostrum samples were collected from Jersey cow in the fifth milking after calving. Samples were identified and refrigerated until analysis. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and a descriptive analysis, while differences between milk were compared by the Duncan?s test (P < 0.05) using the SAS version 9.0 software program. Pearson correlations were then performed between Brix grade and bovine colostrum constituents. The fat, total protein, casein, total solid and Brix percentage of the colostrum gradually decreased from the first to the fifth milking, while the lactose content increased. Positive correlations were observed between Brix values and protein, casein, total solids and defatted dry extract contents, while lactose was negatively correlated. The rapid reduction in Brix means and protein concentrations after delivery demonstrates the importance of administer colostrum in the shortest period after birth. © 2021 Friends Science Publishers Made available in DSpace on 2021-11-05T14:00:26Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Physicochemical-characterization.pdf: 377187 bytes, checksum: 39ba920b2866ec597fb91fd3ac25fb3b (MD5) Previous issue date: 2021

The use of recycled plastics is critical in the transition to a circular economy. However, for certain types of plastics, the recycling process is economically unviable. Government-driven incentives, such as a policy imposing a minimum fraction of recycled plastics to be used in production processes of plastic goods, offer an exit from this impasse. In this paper, we study how a firm's investment behavior is affected by policy uncertainty governing the introduction of such a regulatory measure. Specifically, we adopt a real option approach to study the two-step investment of a firm in its transition to the use of recycled plastics. A clear trade-off can be distinguished. On the one hand, investing early causes unnecessary profit losses before the policy implementation. On the other hand, a lack of investment leads to market exclusion after the policy implementation. For our case study on the use of recycled polyethylene, we find that firms plan their first investment step, so that the timing of the second investment step approximates their projection on the policy implementation time. Moreover, we find that the firm's value is maximized when the capacity of the first investment is smaller than the capacity of the second investment.

To our knowledge, this study represents the first demonstration of Arthrographis kalrae biofilm formation in vitro by scanning electron microscopy and the distinct cytotoxic activity between planktonic and biofilm extracts on RAW 264.7 cell line. Higher activity was observed with biofilm. It could impact host immune response, that require furthers study.

Introduction: Vitiligo is a dermatological disease that affects about 0.38% to 2.9% of the world population. Currently, the main treatments used for vitiligo involve the use of topical drugs such as corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, systemic treatment with steroids and even surgical grafts and, in acute cases, depigmenting treatments. Natural products are an alternative for the treatment of vitiligo: mamacadela (Brosimum gaudichaudii), a plant rich in furanocoumarins, and sowthistle (Sonchus oleraceus), rich in phenolic substances, are already used to treat vitiligo. There are also popular reports of the use of a preparation containing coffee (Coffea sp) and sunflower seed (Helianthus annuus) to treat vitiligo. Case report: A female patient, 28 years old, diagnosed with vitiligo, reported having obtained a positive result in the repigmentation of the pale white patches after the daily use of a preparation containing coffee and sunflower seed for about one year. Discussion: Data from the scientific literature demonstrated that chemical constituents of these plants, such as chlorogenic acid and its isomers, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, and substances such as linoleic acid and vitamins E and B, which help in the process of melanin formation on the skin, may be responsible for the observed repigmentation of the patches. Further research on this case report is important for scientific validation and the development of new therapeutic options, especially with less adverse effects, in the treatment of vitiligo.

Objective: Develop and assess a transdermal emulsion loaded with nanostructured lipid carriers for vitamin D3 supplementation. Methods: Vitamin D3 loaded nanostructured lipid carriers, produced via high shear homogenization and ultrasonication, were assessed for their particle size, distribution, morphology, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and cytotoxicity. They were incorporated into a transdermal vehicle, and the stability and ex vivo permeation were evaluated. Results: Spherical nanoparticles were developed with a particle size of 192.5 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.13, a zeta potential of -29.0 mV, and an entrapment efficiency of 99.75%. They were stable (particle size and distribution) for 15 days when stored in a refrigerator, and for 30 days at room temperature and 32 °C. The nanoparticles decreased the drug cytotoxicity against fibroblasts, as shown by IC50 (nanoparticle: 32.48 μg mL−1; vitamin D3: 16.73 μg mL−1). The emulsion loaded with nanoparticles minimized the degradation of vitamin D3 when compared with the nanoparticle dispersion. Additionally, the emulsion provided the skin permeation of vitamin D3 following the recommended daily allowance. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to use nanostructured lipid carriers for transdermal delivery of vitamin D. The developed formulation is a promising strategy to overcome the vitamin D3 variable oral bioavailability. It also represents a comfortable route of administration; thus it could be beneficial for patients and clinicians. However, further studies are needed to allow the permeation of larger amounts of vitamin D3, and the combination of these nanoparticles with microneedles would be interesting.

Background: Edible oils have gained the interest of several industrial sectors for the different health benefits they offer, such as the supply of bioactive compounds and essential fatty acids. Microencapsulation is one of the techniques that has been adopted by industries to minimize the degradation of oils, facilitating their processing. Objective: To evaluate the intellectual property related to patent documents referring to microencapsulated oils used in foods. Methods and Results: This prospective study investigated the dynamics of patents filed in the Espacenet and National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) databases, and it mapped technological developments in microencapsulation in comparison with scientific literature. The years 2015 and 2018 showed the greatest growth in the number of patents filed in the Espacenet and INPI databases, respectively, with China leading the domains of origin, inventors, and owners of microencapsulation technology. The largest number of applications of microcapsules were observed in the food industry, and the foods containing microencapsulated oils were powdered seasonings, dairy products, rice flour, nutritional formulae, pasta, nutritional supplements, and bread. The increase in oxidative stabilities of oils was the most cited objective to microencapsulate oils. Spray drying was the most widely used microencapsulation technique, and maltodextrin, gum arabic, and modified starch were the most widely used wall materials. Conclusion: Microencapsulation of oils has been expanding over the years and increasing the possibilities of the use of microcapsules, but further investments and development of policies and incentive programs to boost this technology need to be made in less developed countries. For future perspectives, the microencapsulation technique is already a worldwide trend in the food industry, enabling the development of new products to facilitate their insertion in the consumer market.

The paper considers a firm that has the option to invest in a project with an unknown profitability, which is affected by general market uncertainty. The project has the adverse effect that it can cause environmental damage. In case the firm has the option to undertake preventive investment at the time of market entry, we get that preventive investment is significant when (i) the project revenue is large, (ii) the environmental incidents potentially cause a huge reduction of firm value, and (iii) when preventive investment substantially decreases the probability of environmental damage occurrence. The optimality of such a preventive investment results in a significant delay of the project investment. When the firm has the possibility to invest in the project first and do the preventive investment later, this will accelerate the project investment and will result in a larger preventive investment when it indeed will decide to do that one later.

This work aimed to analyze the chemical composition and evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of Lantana montevidensis (OEFLM) in mice. The chemical composition of the OEFLM was analyzed by GC–MS, and its effects on the central nervous system were determined by the open field and rotarod tests. The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory screenings were conducted using the formalin test, as well as the acetic acid-induced abdominal contortion assay. The antinociceptive activity was assessed by the tail-flick and hot plate tests. The systemic anti-inflammatory activity was determined using models of paw edema induced by carrageenan, dextran, histamine, or arachidonic acid. The effects of the essential oil on vascular permeability and granuloma formation were also investigated. The chemical composition of the OEFLM revealed the presence of valencene (17.93%), bicyclogermacrene (16.35%), trans-caryophyllene (12.84%) and germacrene D (12.18%). The administration of OEFLM at the dose of 2000 mg/Kg caused no evident toxicity. While OEFLM (25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) did not present significant anxiolytic-loke or sedative effects, it showed promising antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. The results of this study indicate that the OEFLM has analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in animal models by inhibiting acute and chronic inflammation.

In the present communication, the simultaneous co-immobilization by covalent binding of lipase A from Candida antarctica (CALA) and lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB) in glutaraldehyde (GLU) activated chitosan (CHI) was optimized using the Taguchi method. Under optimized conditions (pH 9, 5 mM, 6:1 (protein load/g of support and 1 h), it was possible to reach 80.00 ± 0.01% for the immobilization yield (IY) and 46.01 ± 0.35 U/g for the activity of the derivative (AtD); in this case, load protein and ionic strength were the only statistically significant parameters and, therefore, those that most influenced the immobilization process. Furthermore, at pH 7, CALA-CALB-CHI had a half-life 2–6 times longer than the mixture of CALA and CALB for a temperature range of 50−80 °C. CALA-CALB showed the highest activity at pH 7, whereas CALA-CALB-CHI, except at pH 7, was more active than the soluble lipase mixture in the pH range (5–9), especially at pH 9. CHI, CHI-GLU, and CALA-CALB-CHI were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Thermogravimetry (TGA), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), proving the immobilization of CALA and CALB in chitosan. CALA-CALB-CHI derivative evaluated in the kinetic resolution of halohydrins acetates rac-2-bromo-1-(2-chlorophenyl) ethyl acetate (2a) and rac-2-chloro-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl) ethyl acetate (2b), to produce the corresponding halohydrins 3a-b, which are intermediates in the synthesis of the drugs chlorprelanine (antiarrhythmic) and luliconazol (antifungal), respectively. (S)-bromohydrin 3a was obtained with 79% enantiomeric excess (ee), whereas (S)-chlorohydrin 3b produced with 98% ee, conversion of 46% and E > 200. Additionally, molecular docking was performed to elucidate the hydrolysis interaction reaction between β-halohydrin acetates and lipases CALA-CALB.

The sol-gel combustion method was applied using three types of fuels (urea, glycine, and ethylene glycol) to synthetize Co sillenite. A Co sillenite - Co3O4 nanocomposite was obtained as result of the synthesis. The effects of initial pH, fuel type, and amount of fuel on the relative mass concentration of Co Sillenite phase present in the nanocomposite, obtained by Rietveld refinement of XRD data, were evaluated by the Box-Behnken design of experiments. Statistical analysis allowed the quantification of each synthesis parameter and the choice of the samples with higher relative mass concentration of Co Sillenite for each type of fuel. The selected samples were analyzed by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), x-ray fluorescence (XRF) and dielectric open-ended coaxial probe techniques. Rietveld refinements showed that Co sillenite and Co3O4 have cubic structure, and Co sillenite structure belongs to I 23 space group. The Co sillenite has crystallite sizes of 43.6 nm (urea), 40.3 nm (glycine) and 44.1 nm (ethylene glycol). The FESEM images displayed a significant change in samples morphology, presenting sphere, flakes and flowers-like shapes. The samples purity was confirmed by the presence of Bi, Co and O elements, identified through EDX. Functional groups and vibrational modes of Co sillenites (Bi–O, Co–O) were identified by FT-IR technique and Raman spectroscopy. Dielectric properties measurements displayed accordance with structural characterizations of each sample. Low losses could also be achieved above 4.5 GHz, leading to a composite suitable for highly efficient microwave systems.

Integrated bioprocess strategies may facilitate ethanol production from both C6 and C5 fractions of lignocellulosic feedstocks. We propose a new process concept, SSICF, where sugarcane bagasse is hydrolyzed simultaneously with xylose isomerization and the co-fermentation of C6 and C5 sugars. A commercial cocktail was supplemented with our multi-enzymatic system composed of three recombinant enzymes immobilized in Feroxyhyte magnetic nanoparticles: β-glucosidase, β-xylosidase and xylose isomerase. SSICF was performed using non-GMO Saccharomyces at pH 6.0 and 35 °C for 72 h in a synthetic medium containing cellobiose and xylose, and another medium containing pretreated sugarcane bagasse (PSB). The results of ethanol global yields in SSICF were 77.67% and 73.24% for the synthetic medium and PSB, respectively. In a nutshell, this is the first report of a successful proof-of-concept of SSICF with four rounds of enzyme recycling and a non-GMO yeast, an innovative process with high potential for industrial use.

Hydroxyapatite is the main bones and teeth inorganic mineral component. This material has been an object of research aiming its use in biomaterials as bone replacement option for biomedical applications. In this investigation, the synthesis of hydroxyapatite was studied by the Hydrothermal (HT) and Microwave Irradiation (MW) methods. Here, parameters such as pH (9 and 11) and synthesis time were varied, and residue of chicken eggshell was used as calcium precursor. The obtained powders were characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Dispersive Energy X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the material synthesized when the pH reached the value of 9 which generated less carbonated powders than those with pH of 11. The Hydrothermal method presented more satisfactory morphological results according to the TEM analysis. This procedure was considered more suitable as a route to obtain hydroxyapatite as biomaterial.

Enoxaparin is an effective biological molecule for prevention and treatment of coagulation disorders. However, it is poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. In this study, we developed an Eudragit® L100 coated chitosan core shell nanoparticles for enoxaparin oral delivery (Eud/CS/Enox NPs) through a completely eco-friendly method without employing any high-energy homogenizer technique and any organic solvents. Spherical nanocarriers were successfully prepared with particle size lower than 300 nm, polydispersity index about 0.12 and zeta potential higher than +25 mV, entrapment efficiency greater than 95% and the in vitro release behavior confirms the good colloidal stability and the successful Eudragit® L100 coating process demonstrated by negligible cumulative enoxaparin release (

This study reports the development of conjugates based on quantum dots (QD)s and lectins from Schinus terebinthifolia leaves (SteLL) and Punica granatum sarcotesta (PgTeL). Cryptococcus neoformans cells were chosen to evaluate the efficiency of the conjugates. Lectins were conjugated to QDs via adsorption, and the optical parameters (emission and absorption) were monitored. Lectin stability in the conjugates towards denaturing agents was investigated via fluorometry. The conjugation was evaluated using fluorescence microplate (FMA) and hemagglutination (HA) assays. The labeling of the C. neoformans cell surface was quantified using flow cytometry and observed via fluorescence microscopy. The QDs-SteLL and QDs-PgTeL conjugates, obtained at pH 7.0 and 8.0, respectively, showed the maintenance of colloidal and optical properties. FMA confirmed the conjugation, and the HA assay indicated that the lectin carbohydrate-binding ability was preserved after conjugation. SteLL and PgTeL showed stability towards high urea concentrations and heating. Conjugates labeled over 90% of C. neoformans cells as observed via flow cytometry and confirmed through fluorescence microscopy. C. neoformans labeling by conjugates was inhibited by glycoproteins, suggesting specific interactions through the lectin carbohydrate-binding site. Thus, an effective protocol for the conjugation of SteLL or PgTeL with QDs was proposed, yielding new nanoprobes useful for glycobiological studies.

Background A. gratissima is a shrub used in folk medicine as analgesic and sedative. However, studies on its antinociceptive activity are scarce. This research aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive effect of a supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) extract of A. gratissima leaves (EAG) in mice. Materials and methods A. gratissima leaves were subjected to extraction with supercritical CO2 (60 °C, 200 bar). The chemical composition of EAG was determined by Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The antinociceptive profile of the extract (1, 10 and 30 mg/kg, p.o.) was established using acetic acid-induced abdominal contraction tests and formalin-induced paw-licking tests. The open field and rota-rod tests were used to evaluate a possible interference of EAG on mice motor performance. The contribution of the opioid system and ATP sensitive K+ channels in the mechanism(s) of EAG action was evaluated by specific receptor blockers. EAG's acute toxicity was investigated using OECD 423 guideline. Results The GC–MS revealed the presence of sesquiterpenes (guaiol and pinocamphone) in the EAG. Doses of 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg significantly reduced the number of abdominal writhes and paw licking time in mice in the formalin test. The EAG did not affect the locomotor activity and motor coordination of the mice. The antinociceptive effect of the EAG was prevented by glibenclamide in the mice formalin test, unlike naloxone pre-treatment. The acute administration of EAG caused no mortality. Conclusions A. gratissima leaves possess antinociceptive effect, mediated by K+ channels sensitive to ATP.

Anaerobic biotechnology has been widely used for swine wastewater (SWW) treatment. However, its organic loading rate (OLR) is far lower than expected, mainly because of the low rate of hydrolysis. In this study, the comparative process performance and efficiency of an up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor (R1) and an up-flow microaerobic sludge blanket (UMSB) reactor (R2) were evaluated for SWW treatment, operating for 264 days under higher OLRs and lower hydraulic retention times than those found in the literature. The R2 was subjected to the three different air doses: 0.09 (stage I), 0.17 (stage II), and 0.25 (stage III) LO2 Lfeed−1 d−1 aiming at enhancing the hydrolysis step of the anaerobic digestion (AD). The overall results showed that 0.17 LO2 Lfeed−1 d−1 was the best experimental condition evaluated, which provided volatile suspended solids, total chemical oxygen demand, and particulate chemical oxygen demand removal efficiencies of 85.0 ± 1.9%, 83.8 ± 2.5%, and 82.1 ± 4.8%, respectively. This performance was due to the higher organic matter hydrolysis, resulting in higher methane production. Therefore, the UMSB reactor treatment was demonstrated to be a feasible alternative for SWW, although some strategies to control biomass washout must be investigated.

Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of anti-interleukin-5 class therapy agents in the treatment of eosinophilic asthma and the financial impact of these drugs on the Brazilian and Mato Grosso public health systems. Methods The literature review in important databases was guided by a structured research question including patient or population, intervention, comparator, outcome and type of study. The retrieved studies went through a screening, selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment process. A model with two scenarios, one with mepolizumab and the other with benralizumab, was created for budget impact analysis. Results Evidence indicated that anti-interleukins-5 have an acceptable safety profile and can reduce exacerbation rates by up to 50% in the population with eosinophilic asthma; however, they showed no significant difference in quality of life. The adoption of these drugs in the Brazilian health system can impact the budget from R$ 40,379,731.50 to R$ 140,301,211.34 depending on the drug incorporated, considering a time horizon of 5 years. From the perspective of the state of Mato Grosso, the budget impact may reach, in the fifth year, an amount of R$ 1,301,210.58 and R$ 2,050.687.62 for the scenarios with mepolizumab and benralizumab, respectively. Conclusion Anti-interleukins-5 are promising treatments for eosinophilic asthma because they minimise exacerbations and are well tolerated and safe. The financial impact is large, implying that technology costs may be a barrier to accessing this treatment class.

Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are natural polymers with physical-chemical properties that make them very attractive for modulating stem cell differentiation, a crucial step in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Although cellulose is cytocompatible, when materials are in nanoscale, they become more reactive, needing to evaluate its potential toxic effect to ensure safe application. This study aimed to investigate the cytocompatibility of cotton CNF and its differentiation capacity induction on stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth. First, the cotton CNF was characterized. Then, the cytocompatibility and the osteogenic differentiation induced by cotton CNF were examined. The results revealed that cotton CNFs have about 6-18 nm diameters, and the zeta potential was -10 mV. Despite gene expression alteration, the cotton CNF shows good cytocompatibility. The cotton CNF induced an increase in phosphatase alkaline activity and extracellular matrix mineralization. The results indicate that cotton CNF has good cytocompatibility and can promote cell differentiation without using chemical inducers, showing great potential as a new differentiation inductor for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.

Poultry litter is widely applied as a fertilizer even though it is one of the main antibiotic sources to agricultural soils. Long-term sublethal effects (56 days) on the antioxidant system of Eisenia andrei earthworms following exposure to fluoroquinolone-contaminated poultry litter (enrofloxacin + ciprofloxacin) at 5.0, 10, and 20 g kg-1 were evaluated. The following biomarkers were assessed: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), reduced glutathione (GSH), and a lipid peroxidation (LPO) proxy. Significant CAT and SOD increases, and a moderate positive correlation (ρ = 0.67, p < 0.05) between these enzymes was observed. Glutathione-S-transferase levels increased significantly at 10 g kg-1, while GSH exhibited a dose-dependent response at 5.0 mg kg-1 (4-106%), 10 mg kg-1 (28-330 %), and 20 mg kg-1 (45-472%). LPO levels exhibited a decreasing trend with increasing poultry litter concentrations of 8-170% (5.0 g kg-1), 7-104% (10 mg kg-1), and 3-6% (20 mg kg-1). A principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted increased SOD and CAT activities, possibly due to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations. Biological health status assessments based on the biomarker response index indicate major alterations in the first month of exposure and becoming moderate in the second month. These findings indicate an antioxidant system attenuation trend. It is possible, however, that successive poultry litter applications may reduce the long-term recovery capacity of the evaluated biomarkers.

Inflammatory markers represent important candidates responsible for the altered behavior and physiology observed after stressful experiences. In the maternal brain, the olfactory bulb (OB) is a key constituent of the neural circuit that mediates the reciprocal interaction between mother and infant. This study aimed to investigate the effects of stress during pregnancy on maternal behavior and inflammatory changes in the olfactory bulb of lactating mice. Female Balb/c mice were divided into two groups: control (CT) and restraint stress (RS). Maternal behavior was performed during the first 8 days of life of the offspring. On the 10th day after parturition, corticosterone, gene, and protein expression were assessed. Stress during pregnancy decreased the maternal index at postnatal day 4 and the nuclear factor-κB 1 (NFκB1) gene expression in the OB. Moreover, females from the RS group showed increased interleukin (IL-1β) protein expression. In contrast, stressed females exhibited a decreased tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) protein expression in the OB. In conclusion, exposure to stress during pregnancy was able to induce specific postnatal effects on maternal behavior and balance of inflammatory mediators in the OB.

cis-Aconitic acid is a constituent from the leaves of Echinodorus grandiflorus, a medicinal plant traditionally used in Brazil to treat inflammatory conditions, including arthritic diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-arthritic effect of cis-aconitic acid in murine models of antigen-induced arthritis and monosodium urate-induced gout. The possible underlying mechanisms of action was evaluated in THP-1 macrophages. Oral treatment with cis-aconitic acid (10, 30, and 90 mg/kg) reduced leukocyte accumulation in the joint cavity and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 and IL-1β levels in periarticular tissue. cis-Aconitic acid treatment reduced joint inflammation in tissue sections of antigen-induced arthritis mice and these effects were associated with decreased mechanical hypernociception. Administration of cis-aconitic acid (30 mg/kg p. o.) also reduced leukocyte accumulation in the joint cavity after the injection of monosodium urate crystals. cis-Aconitic acid reduced in vitro the release of TNF-α and phosphorylation of IκBα in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated THP-1 macrophages, suggesting that inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B activation was an underlying mechanism of cis-aconitic acid-induced anti-inflammatory effects. In conclusion, cis-aconitic acid has significant anti-inflammatory effects in antigen-induced arthritis and monosodium urate-induced arthritis in mice, suggesting its potential for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the joint in humans. Additionally, our findings suggest that this compound may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect previously reported for E. grandiflorus extracts.