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Abstract Background Numerous bioassay methods have been used to test the efficacy of repellents for ticks, but the comparability of results across different methods has only been evaluated in a single study. Of particular interest are comparisons between bioassays that use artificial containers (in vitro) with those conducted on a human subject (in vivo) for efficacy testing of new potential unregistered active ingredients, which most commonly use in vitro methods. Methods We compared four different bioassay methods and evaluated three ingredients (DEET [N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide], peppermint oil and rosemary oil) and a negative control (ethanol) over a 6-h period. Two of the methods tested were in vivo bioassay methods in which the active ingredient was applied to human skin (finger and forearm bioassays), and the other two methods were in vitro methods using artificial containers (jar and petri dish bioassays). All four bioassays were conducted using Ixodes scapularis nymphs. We compared the results using nymphs from two different tick colonies that were derived from I. scapularis collected in the US states of Connecticut and Rhode Island (northern origin) and Oklahoma (southern origin), expecting that ticks of different origin would display differences in host-seeking behavior. Results The results between bioassay methods did not differ significantly, even when comparing those that provide the stimulus of human skin with those that do not. We also found that tick colony source can impact the outcome of repellency bioassays due to differences in movement speed; behavioral differences were incorporated into the assay screening. DEET effectively repelled nymphs for the full 6-h duration of the study. Peppermint oil showed a similar repellent efficacy to DEET during the first hour, but it decreased sharply afterwards. Rosemary oil did not effectively repel nymphs across any of the time points. Conclusions The repellency results did not differ significantly between the four bioassay methods tested. The results also highlight the need to consider the geographic origin of ticks used in repellency bioassays in addition to species and life stage. Finally, our results indicate a limited repellent efficacy of the two essential oils tested, which highlights the need for further studies on the duration of repellency for similar botanically derived active ingredients and for evaluation of formulated products. Graphical Abstract

Background: Numerous bioassay methods have been used to test the efficacy of repellents for ticks, but the comparability of results across different methods has only been evaluated in a single study. Of particular interest are comparisons between bioassays that use artificial containers (in vitro) with those conducted on a human subject (in vivo) for efficacy testing of new potential unregistered active ingredients, which most commonly use in vitro methods. Methods: We compared four different bioassay methods and evaluated three ingredients (DEET [N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide], peppermint oil and rosemary oil) and a negative control (ethanol) over a 6-h period. Two of the methods tested were in vivo bioassay methods in which the active ingredient was applied to human skin (finger and forearm bioassays), and the other two methods were in vitro methods using artificial containers (jar and petri dish bioassays). All four bioassays were conducted using Ixodesscapularis nymphs. We compared the results using nymphs from two different tick colonies that were derived from I.scapularis collected in the US states of Connecticut and Rhode Island (northern origin) and Oklahoma (southern origin), expecting that ticks of different origin would display differences in host-seeking behavior. Results: The results between bioassay methods did not differ significantly, even when comparing those that provide the stimulus of human skin with those that do not. We also found that tick colony source can impact the outcome of repellency bioassays due to differences in movement speed; behavioral differences were incorporated into the assay screening. DEET effectively repelled nymphs for the full 6-h duration of the study. Peppermint oil showed a similar repellent efficacy to DEET during the first hour, but it decreased sharply afterwards. Rosemary oil did not effectively repel nymphs across any of the time points. Conclusions: The repellency results did not differ significantly between the four bioassay methods tested. The results also highlight the need to consider the geographic origin of ticks used in repellency bioassays in addition to species and life stage. Finally, our results indicate a limited repellent efficacy of the two essential oils tested, which highlights the need for further studies on the duration of repellency for similar botanically derived active ingredients and for evaluation of formulated products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy content of ingredients is estimated from tabulated values, predictive equations, and in vivo bioassays. Numerous institutions and research centers have edited comprehensive tables to evaluate the nutritive value of ingredients in poultry diets. However, the energy values provided in these tables vary widely for most traditional raw materials, including protein meals, cereals, and lipid sources. Various reasons help to explain some of the discrepancies among sources but in most cases, the differences in energy reported are not justified. Predictive equations based on near-infrared reflectance (NIRS) technology are gaining popularity for energy estimation of dietary ingredients. Online regression equations facilitate feed formulation but often the equations available are not suitable for use under many practical conditions. In vivo trials conducted at research institutions and feed companies are valid sources of information, especially for non-traditional ingredients. However, in vivo tests are of limited use under most practical conditions. In summary, each of the methods described has advantages and disadvantages. Two priorities in poultry research are the standardization of the procedures used in the in vivo trials and the online implementation of simple methods, based on NIRS technology, to predict accurately the energy content of ingredients and feeds. Nutritionists and feed mill managers should be aware of the methodology used and their applicability before selecting any of the procedures reported in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A new polyaminocarboxylic bis-(3-hydroxy-4-pyridinone), derivative of DTPA, DTPA(PrHP) 2 , was synthesized starting from maltol by means of a coupling reaction of a protected 3-hydroxy-4-pyridinone and DTPA bis-anhydride. The DTPA(PrHP) 2 acid-base behavior was investigated by UV–Vis spectrophotometry and spectrofluorimetry at I = 0.15 mol L−1 in NaCl (aq) at T = 298.15 K and T = 310.15 K. To confirm the speciation scheme, also 1H NMR measurements were performed at T = 298.15 K. The protonation constants obtained from the cited different analytical techniques showed good accordance and were also in agreement with data reported in the literature. The complexing ability of DTPA(PrHP) 2 towards divalent (Ca2+, Cu2+, Zn2+) and trivalent (Al3+, Fe3+) cations was studied by potentiometric, UV–Vis spectrophotometric and 1H NMR titrations at T = 298.15 K and I = 0.15 mol L−1 in NaCl (aq). The fitting analysis of experimental data led to the determination of different speciation models consisting of M p L q H r (pn+r-5q) species with different stoichiometry and protonation stages, hydrolytic mixed and polynuclear complexes. The equilibrium model and complex formation constants, obtained from various analytical techniques, are in good agreement. The sequestering ability of the ligand towards the metal cations was assessed through the determination of the pL 0.5 and pM parameters at different pH values and pH = 7.4, respectively, which showed to follow the trend Fe3+ > Al3+ > Cu2+ > Ca2+ > Zn2+. Finally, biodistribution studies were carried out in mice previously injected with the radiotracer 67Ga–citrate to evaluate the in vivo ability of DTPA(PrHP) 2 as chelating agent towards trivalent metal cations. Graphical abstract Metal chelation capacity based on the pM values calculated vs. pH for different Mn+/bis-3-hydroxy-4-pyridinone (DTPA(PrHP) 2) systems; in vivo M3+ sequestration. Unlabelled Image Highlights • A new polyaminocarboxylic bis-(3-hydroxy-4-pyridinone), derived from diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, was synthesized. • Its acid-base behavior and complexation towards M2+ and M3+ were investigated. • The sequestering ability of the ligand towards Mn+ was studied using the pL 0.5 parameter determination at different pHs. • The pM values, calculated at physiological pH, follows the trend: Fe3+ > Al3+ > Cu2+ > Ca2+ > Zn2+. • Biodistribution studies indicated that the ligand has high in vivo chelating ability towards trivalent metal cations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This work presents the simple and low cost synthesis of a new tripodal ligand, in which three units of kojic acid are coupled to a tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (tren) backbone molecule. The protonation equilibria, together with the complex formation equilibria of this ligand with Fe3+, Al3+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions were studied. The complementary use of potentiometric, spectrophotometric and NMR techniques, and of Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, has allowed a thorough characterization of the different species involved in equilibrium. The stability of the formed complexes with Fe3+ and Al3+ are high enough to consider the new ligand for further studies for its clinical applications as a chelating agent. Biodistribution studies were carried out to assess the capacity the ligand for mobilization of gallium in 67Ga-citrate injected mice. These studies demonstrated that this ligand efficiently chelates the radiometal in our animal model, which suggests that it can be a promising candidate as sequestering agent of iron and other hard trivalent metal ions. Furthermore, the good zinc complexation capacity appears as a stimulating result taking into a potential use of this new ligand in analytical chemistry as well as in agricultural and environmental applications. Graphical abstract The synthesis of a new tripodal ligand is presented, with the study of protonation and complex formation equilibria with Fe3+, Al3+, Cu2+ and Zn2. The complementary use of potentiometry, spectrophotometry, NMR and Density Functional Theory has allowed the characterization of the involved species. Biodistribution proved it as a promising chelator. Unlabelled Image Highlights • Simple synthesis of a new ligand with three units of kojic acid properly assembled. • Study of protonation and complex formation equilibria with Fe3+, Al3+, Cu2+ and Zn2+. • Complementary use of potentiometry, spectrophotometry, NMR and Density Functional Theory. • Good stability of the formed complexes with possible forthcoming applications. • Biodistribution studies proved the new ligand a promising chelator for trivalent metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of resistance of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus to synthetic acaricides has given rise to the need for new scientific investigations on alternative ways to control this tick. In this regard, various studies on plants have been developed in an attempt to find extracts with acaricidal properties. Evaluations on plant extracts for controlling R. (B.) microplus have grown intensely over the last decade. There are many advantages from using plant extracts: for example, they can be used in organic cattle farming or even replace synthetic acaricides and they are associated with lower environmental and food contamination, slower development of resistance and lower toxicity to animals and humans. In vitro studies on plant extracts have shown promising results, but most of these extracts have not been tested on animals to validate their use. Difficulties in preparing proper formulations, differences in the chemical composition of plants of the same species due to extrinsic and intrinsic factors and sparse information on active acaricide compounds are hindrances that need to be addressed in order to enable progress within this scientific field.A evolução da resistência do Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus aos acaricidas sintéticos tem impulsionado novas investigações científicas sobre métodos alternativos para controlar este carrapato. Considerando isso, vários estudos com plantas têm sido desenvolvidos numa tentativa de encontrar extratos com propriedades acaricidas. Avalições de extratos de plantas para o controle de R. (B.) microplus tem sido intensificadas nesta última década. Existem muitas vantagens com o uso de extratos de plantas no controle deste carrapato, como: eles podem ser utilizados na produção orgânica de bovinos, ou mesmo substituir os acaricidas sintéticos, além do mais, estão associados com baixa contaminação ambiental e dos alimentos, desenvolvimento mais lento de resistência e baixa toxicidade para animais e seres humanos. Estudos in vitro de extratos de plantas têm apresentado resultados promissores, mas a maioria destes extratos não têm sido testada em animais para validar estes resultados. Dificuldades para preparar formulações apropriadas, diferenças na composição química de plantas de uma mesma espécie devido a fatores intrínsecos e extrínsecos e informações esparsas.sobre os princípios ativos são entraves que precisam ser solucionados visando o desenvolvimento deste campo de pesquisa.

Experimental induction of plant chemical defences with methyl jasmonate (MeJa) is a valuable tool for understanding the ecology of plant defensive responses. However, few studies have examined whether MeJa-induced defences in conifers are effective against insect herbivores. We studied, in 17 half-sib Pinus pinaster families, (i) the effect of MeJa application on plant growth and on the induction of diterpenoid resin in different sections of the stem; (ii) whether MeJa-induced defences increase the resistance of living pine juveniles against the large pine weevil Hylobius abietis in an in vivo bioassay and (iii) the induction of resin content after weevil wounding. Resin concentration was greater in the upper section of the stem compared with basal sections in both MeJa-induced and non-induced seedlings. Sixty days after MeJa application, treated plants showed 40% greater resin content all along the stem, but reduced height growth compared to control plants. MeJa-induction was effective against the pine weevil, as induced seedlings were 21% less damaged than control plants. Wounding activity by H. abietis produced a strong local defensive response after 48 h, where resin concentration was double that observed in the basal and apical sections not exposed to the insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]