Solubility and release modulation effect of sulfamerazine ternary complexes with cyclodextrins and meglumine

This study investigated the effect on solubility and release of ternary complexes of sulfamerazine (SMR) with beta-(beta CD), methyl-(M beta CD) and hydroxypropyl-P-cyclodextrin (HP beta CD) using meglumine (MEG) as the ternary component. The combination of MEG with M beta CD resulted the best approach, with an increased effect (29-fold) of the aqueous solubility of SMR. The mode of inclusion was supported by 2D NMR, which indicated that real ternary complexes were formed between SMR, MEG and M beta CD or HP beta CD. Solid state analysis was performed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), which demonstrated that different interactions occurred among SMR, MEG and M beta CD or HP beta CD in the ternary lyophilized systems. The ternary complexes with beta CD and M beta CD produced an additional retention effect on the release of SMR compared to the corresponding binary complexes, implying that they were clearly superior in terms of solubility and release modulation. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Production and characterization of natural rubber-Ca/P blends for biomedical purposes

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester: Consequences of Its Hydrophobicity in the Oxidative Functions and Cytokine Release by Leukocytes

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND LEVELS OF HEAVY METALS IN LETTUCE PLANTS FERTILIZED WITH ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

The use of organic compounds has been a good option to reduce spending on fertilizers, and gain increased productivity in the cultivation of lettuce. However, given the wide variety of raw materials used in the preparation of organic compounds, studies are needed to evaluate its effects on the release of essential nutrients to plants and on the release of contaminants such as heavy metals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mineral nutrition and heavy metal contamination of lettuce in soils treated with doses and types of compost. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in randomized blocks in factorial scheme 5x4, with five types of organic compounds and four nitrogen levels (0, 35, 70 and 140 kg ha(-1) of N), with four replications. In general, the doses of the compounds were not enough to provide the necessary quantity of nutrients to the lettuce, with the exception of nitrogen. There was no increase in levels of heavy metals in the soil above that allowed by Brazilian legislation. Furthermore, compounds based on manure plus grass, and commercial compound caused increases in Zn concentration in plants at levels above the recommended for consumed.

Short-term effect of alginate-biochar microbeads in corn germination

Biochar is the solid by-product of biomass pyrolysis. It is a promising soil conditioner and can be a material with high aggregate economic value, since its performance can improve plant’s nutrient utilization and reduce the usage of conventional fertilizers. Biochar can be used in the formulation of new types of fertilizers as polymeric microbeads. These microbeads can be enriched with biochar and nutrients in its matrix to form fertilizers of slow release of nutrients. Thus, as a promising agricultural material, it is important to assess the environmental hazards caused by the implementation of these microbeads. In this context, seeds were sown in a soil-less Petri dish with microbeads produced with biochar from sugarcane enriched with or without phosphate. The seeds germination and its vitality were evaluated by the first germination count (FGC) and the germination speed index (GSI). The short-term effects showed that the microbeads, in general, assessed by the means of FGC, GSI and mass gain showed the best performance, suggesting that the environment created by these materials provided the best chemical and physical interaction with the embryonic axes.

A novel synthesis of perovskite bismuth ferrite nanoparticles

Abstract. Biochar is the solid by-product of biomass pyrolysis. It is a promising soil conditioner and can be a material with high aggregate economic value, since its performance can improve plant’s nutrient utilization and reduce the usage of conventional fertilizers. Biochar can be used in the formulation of new types of fertilizers as polymeric microbeads. These microbeads can be enriched with biochar and nutrients in its matrix to form fertilizers of slow release of nutrients. Thus, as a promising agricultural material, it is important to assess the environmental hazards caused by the implementation of these microbeads. In this context, seeds were sown in a soil-less Petri dish with microbeads produced with biochar from sugarcane enriched with or without phosphate. The seeds germination and its vitality were evaluated by the first germination count (FGC) and the germination speed index (GSI). The short-term effects showed that the microbeads, in general, assessed by the means of FGC, GSI and mass gain showed the best performance, suggesting that the environment created by these materials provided the best chemical and physical interaction with the embryonic axes.

Pulsing With Low Concentration Gibberellin Plus Benzyladenine or Commercial Floral Preservatives Affect Postharvest Longevity, Quality, and Leaf Chlorosis of Cut Lilies and Gladioli

Effects of pulsing with different concentrations of gibberellin plus benzyladenine (GA(4+7) + BA), a proprietary mixture of GA(4+7) plus BA in a commercial floral preservative (GA(4+7) + BA + preservative), or a propriety mixture of sugar plus acidifier developed for bulbous flowers (floral bulb preservative) were studied on postharvest performance and quality of cut lily (Lilium hybrids) and gladiolus ( Gladiolus hybrids) flowers. Pulsing of cut stems of lily with GA(4+7) + BA at 5 or 2 mL.L-1 GA(4+7) + BA + preservative for 20 hours at 3 +/- 1 degrees C extended the vase life and controlled leaf chlorosis of 'Cobra'oriental lily and 'Cappuccino'and Pot Corn'asiatic lily. Cut 'Orange Art'asiatic lily performed best when pulsed with GA(4+7) + BA at 10 mg.L-1. For cut gladiolus, pulsing with GA(4+7) + BA at 10 mg.L-1 extended the vase life of 'Alice', 'Mammoth', and 'Passion', while 'Scarlet'had the longest vase life when pulsed with 5 mg.L-1 GA(4+7) + BA. GA(4+7) + BA + preservative also extended the vase life and controlled leaf chlorosis, but the floral bulb preservative had no effect on vase life extension or preventing leaf chlorosis of lilies. Gladiolus cultivars had no or minor leaf chlorosis during vase period. Overall, overnight pulsing with GA(4+7) + BA + or GA(4+7) + BA + preservative extended the vase life and prevented leaf chlorosis

Participation of dectin-1 receptor on NETs release against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis: role on extracellular killing

Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is a dimorphic fungus from the Paracoccidioides genus, which is the causative agent of paracoccidioidomycosis, a chronic, subacute or acute mycosis, with visceral and cutaneous involvement. This disease that is acquired through inhalation primarily attacks the lungs but, can spread to other organs. Phagocytic cells as neutrophils play an important role during innate immune response against this fungus, but studies on antifungal activities of these cells are scarce. In addition to their ability to eliminate pathogens by phagocytosis and antimicrobial secretions, neutrophils can trap and kill microorganisms by release of extracellular structures composed by DNA and antimicrobial proteins, called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Here, we provide evidence that P. brasiliensis virulent strain (P. brasiliensis 18) induces NETs release. These structures were well evidenced by scanning electron microscopy, and specific NETs compounds such as histone, elastase and DNA were shown by confocal microscopy. In addition, we have shown that dectin-1 receptor is the main PRR to which fungus binds to induce NETS release. Fungi were ensnared by NETs, denoting the role of these structures in confining the fungus, avoiding dissemination. NETs were also shown to be involved in fungus killing, since fungicidal activity detected before and mainly after neutrophils activation with TNF-α, IFN-γ and GM-CSF was significantly inhibited by cocultures treatment with DNAse.

Antioxidant Effects of Quercetin and Catechin Encapsulated into PLGA Nanoparticles

Polymeric nanoparticles (PLGA) have been developed for the encapsulation and controlled release of quercetin and catechin. Nanoparticles were fabricated using a solvent displacementmethod. Physicochemical properties were measured by light scattering, scanning electron microscopy and zeta-potential, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release profiles were obtained from differential pulse voltammetry experiments. Antioxidant properties of free and encapsulated flavonoids were determined by TBARS, fluorescence spectroscopy and standard chelating activity methods. Relatively small (d approximate to 400 nm) polymeric nanoparticles were obtained containing quercetin or catechin in a non-crystalline form (EE approximate to 79%) and the main interactions between the polymer and each flavonoid were found to consist of hydrogen bonds. In vitro release profiles were pH-dependant, the more acidic pH, the faster release of each flavonoid from the polymeric nanoparticles. The inhibition of the action of free radicals and chelating properties, were also enhanced when quercetin and catechin were encapsulated within PLGA nanoparticles. The information obtained from this study will facilitate the design and fabrication of polymeric nanoparticles as possible oral delivery systems for encapsulation, protection and controlled release of flavonoids aimed to prevent oxidative stress in human body or food products.

Development of Nanoinjector Devices for Electrospray Ionization - Tandem Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MSn)

In mass spectrometric (MS) systems with electrospray ionization (ESI), the sample can be analyzed coupled to separation systems (such as liquid chromatography or capillary electrophoresis) or simply by direct infusion. The greatest benefit of the type of injection is the possibility of continuous use of small amounts of samples over a long period of time. This extended analysis time allows a complete study of fragmentation by mass spectrometry, which is critical for structure elucidation of new compounds, or when using an ion trap mass analyzer. The injector filled with the sample is placed at the ESI source inlet creating an electric field suitable for the continuous formation of a spray (solvent and sample) and consequently, the gradual and even release of the sample. For the formation of the spray, is necessary that the injector end is metalized. The formation of a bilayer of titanium and gold provided an excellent attachment of the film, resulting in a nanoinjector for ionization/spray formation in the system for MS. The nanoinjectors showed high repeatability and stability over 100 min by continuous sampling with 10 mu L of sample.

Root niche separation can explain avoidance of seasonal drought stress and vulnerability of overstory trees to extended drought in a mature Amazonian forest

Large areas of Amazonian evergreen forest experience seasonal droughts extending for three or more months, yet show maximum rates of photosynthesis and evapotranspiration during dry intervals. This apparent resilience is belied by disproportionate mortality of the large trees in manipulations that reduce wet season rainfall, occurring after 2-3 years of treatment. The goal of this study is to characterize the mechanisms that produce these contrasting ecosystem responses. A mechanistic model is developed based on the ecohydrological framework of TIN (Triangulated Irregular Network)-based Real Time Integrated Basin Simulator + Vegetation Generator for Interactive Evolution (tRIBS+VEGGIE). The model is used to test the roles of deep roots and soil capillary flux to provide water to the forest during the dry season. Also examined is the importance of "root niche separation," in which roots of overstory trees extend to depth, where during the dry season they use water stored from wet season precipitation, while roots of understory trees are concentrated in shallow layers that access dry season precipitation directly. Observational data from the Tapajo's National Forest, Brazil, were used as meteorological forcing and provided comprehensive observational constraints on the model. Results strongly suggest that deep roots with root niche separation adaptations explain both the observed resilience during seasonal drought and the vulnerability of canopy-dominant trees to extended deficits of wet season rainfall. These mechanisms appear to provide an adaptive strategy that enhances productivity of the largest trees in the face of their disproportionate heat loads and water demand in the dry season. A sensitivity analysis exploring how wet season rainfall affects the stability of the rainforest system is presented. Citation: Ivanov, V. Y., L. R. Hutyra, S. C. Wofsy, J. W. Munger, S. R. Saleska, R. C. de Oliveira Jr., and P. B. de Camargo (2012), Root niche separation can explain avoidance of seasonal drought stress and vulnerability of overstory trees to extended drought in a mature Amazonian forest, Water Resour. Res., 48, W12507, doi:10.1029/2012WR011972.

Counter-ion effect on surfactant-DNA gel particles as controlled DNA delivery systems

The ability to entrap drugs within vehicles and subsequently release them has led to new treatments for a number of diseases. Based on an associative phase separation and interfacial diffusion approach, we developed a way to prepare DNA gel particles without adding any kind of cross-linker or organic solvent. Among the various agents studied, cationic surfactants offered particularly efficient control for encapsulation and DNA release from these DNA gel particles. The driving force for this strong association is the electrostatic interaction between the two components, as induced by the entropic increase due to the release of the respective counter-ions. However, little is known about the influence of the respective counter-ions on this surfactant-DNA interaction. Here we examined the effect of different counter-ions on the formation and properties of the DNA gel particles by mixing DNA (either single-(ssDNA) or double-stranded (dsDNA)) with the single chain surfactant dodecyltrimethylammonium (DTA). In particular, we used as counter-ions of this surfactant the hydrogen sulfate and trifluoromethane sulfonate anions and the two halides, chloride and bromide. Effects on the morphology of the particles obtained, the encapsulation of DNA and its release, as well as the haemocompatibility of these particles are presented, using counter-ion structure and DNA conformation as controlling parameters. Analysis of the data indicates that the degree of counter-ion dissociation from the surfactant micelles and the polar/hydrophobic character of the counter-ion are important parameters in the final properties of the particles. The stronger interaction with amphiphiles for ssDNA than for dsDNA suggests the important role of hydrophobic interactions in DNA.

Insulin modulates cytokine release and selectin expression in the early phase of allergic airway inflammation in diabetic rats

Abstract Background Clinical and experimental data suggest that the inflammatory response is impaired in diabetics and can be modulated by insulin. The present study was undertaken to investigate the role of insulin on the early phase of allergic airway inflammation. Methods Diabetic male Wistar rats (alloxan, 42 mg/Kg, i.v., 10 days) and controls were sensitized by s.c. injection of ovalbumin (OA) in aluminium hydroxide 14 days before OA (1 mg/0.4 mL) or saline intratracheal challenge. The following analyses were performed 6 hours thereafter: a) quantification of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC)-1 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, b) expression of E- and P- selectins on lung vessels by immunohistochemistry, and c) inflammatory cell infiltration into the airways and lung parenchyma. NPH insulin (4 IU, s.c.) was given i.v. 2 hours before antigen challenge. Results Diabetic rats exhibited significant reduction in the BALF concentrations of IL-1β (30%) and TNF-α (45%), and in the lung expression of P-selectin (30%) compared to non-diabetic animals. This was accompanied by reduced number of neutrophils into the airways and around bronchi and blood vessels. There were no differences in the CINC-1 levels in BALF, and E-selectin expression. Treatment of diabetic rats with NPH insulin, 2 hours before antigen challenge, restored the reduced levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and P-selectin, and neutrophil migration. Conclusion Data presented suggest that insulin modulates the production/release of TNF-α and IL-1β, the expression of P- and E-selectin, and the associated neutrophil migration into the lungs during the early phase of the allergic inflammatory reaction.

Comparison of different delivery systems of DNA vaccination for the induction of protection against tuberculosis in mice and guinea pigs

The great challenges for researchers working in the field of vaccinology are optimizing DNA vaccines for use in humans or large animals and creating effective single-dose vaccines using appropriated controlled delivery systems. Plasmid DNA encoding the heat-shock protein 65 (hsp65) (DNAhsp65) has been shown to induce protective and therapeutic immune responses in a murine model of tuberculosis (TB). Despite the success of naked DNAhsp65-based vaccine to protect mice against TB, it requires multiple doses of high amounts of DNA for effective immunization. In order to optimize this DNA vaccine and simplify the vaccination schedule, we coencapsulated DNAhsp65 and the adjuvant trehalose dimycolate (TDM) into biodegradable poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres for a single dose administration. Moreover, a single-shot prime-boost vaccine formulation based on a mixture of two different PLGA microspheres, presenting faster and slower release of, respectively, DNAhsp65 and the recombinant hsp65 protein was also developed. These formulations were tested in mice as well as in guinea pigs by comparison with the efficacy and toxicity induced by the naked DNA preparation or BCG. The single-shot prime-boost formulation clearly presented good efficacy and diminished lung pathology in both mice and guinea pigs.

Development of nanoinjector devices for electrospray ionization - tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MSn)

In mass spectrometric (MS) systems with electrospray ionization (ESI), the sample can be analyzed coupled to separation systems (such as liquid chromatography or capillary electrophoresis) or simply by direct infusion. The greatest benefit of the type of injection is the possibility of continuous use of small amounts of samples over a long period of time. This extended analysis time allows a complete study of fragmentation by mass spectrometry, which is critical for structure elucidation of new compounds, or when using an ion trap mass analyzer. The injector filled with the sample is placed at the ESI source inlet creating an electric field suitable for the continuous formation of a spray (solvent and sample) and consequently, the gradual and even release of the sample. For the formation of the spray, is necessary that the injector end is metalized. The formation of a bilayer of titanium and gold provided an excellent attachment of the film, resulting in a nanoinjector for ionization/spray formation in the system for MS. The nanoinjectors showed high repeatability and stability over 100 min by continuous sampling with 10 µL of sample.