Cilostazol protects against changes caused by streptozotocin-induced diabetic retinopathy / Cilostazol protege contra as alterações causadas pela retinopatia diabética induzida por estreptozotocina

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study investigates the protective effect of cilostazol on the development and evolution of diabetic retinopathy in rats. Methods: Sixty male rats were divided into four groups: untreated nondiabetic rats, untreated diabetic rats, cilostazol-treated nondiabetic rats, and cilostazol-treated diabetic rats. The thickness of the internal limiting membrane to the outer limiting membrane, inner plexiform layer, inner nuclear layer, and outer nuclear layer were measured. The number of cell nuclei per 50-μm length in retinal sections was counted to quantify the degree of retinal cell loss. Results: The number of nuclei in the ganglion cell layer was significantly higher in untreated nondiabetic rats (p<0.05). The mean number of nuclei in the cilostazol-treated nondiabetic rats was significantly higher than that in the cilostazol-treated diabetic rats (p<0.05). The cilostazol-treated nondiabetic rats had a significantly higher mean nuclei count in the inner nuclear layer and inner plexiform layer as compared with the other groups (p<0.05). The total mean retinal thickness of the cilostazol-treated nondiabetic rats was significantly higher than that of cilostazol-treated diabetic rats and untreated diabetic rats (p<0.05). Conclusion: By decreasing the loss of ganglion cells and reducing the sensorineural atrophy in the internal retinal layers, cilostazol had a protective effect against changes caused by diabetic retinopathy in diabetic rats.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito protetor do cilostazol no desenvolvimento e na evolução da retinopatia diabética em ratos. Métodos: Sessenta ratos machos foram divididos em 4 grupos: ratos não-diabéticos não-tratados, ratos diabéticos não-tratados, ratos não-diabéticos tratados com cilostazol e ratos diabéticos tratados com cilostazol. A espessura da membrana limitante interna à membrana limitante externa, a camada plexiforme interna, a camada nuclear interna e a camada nuclear externa foram medidas. Para quantificar o grau de perda de células da retina, foi contado o número de núcleos de células por 50 μm de comprimento em secções retinianas. Resultados: O número de núcleos no GCL foi significativamente maior em Ratos não-diabéticos não-tratados com cilostazol (p<0,05). O número médio de núcleos em Ratos não-diabéticos tratados com cilostazol foi significativamente maior do que em Ratos diabéticos tratados com cilostazol (p<0,05). A contagem média de núcleos em camada nuclear interna e camada plexiforme interna de ratos não-diabéticos tratados com cilostazol foi significativamente maior do que nos outros grupos (p<0,05). A espessura retiniana média total de Ratos não-diabéticos tratados com cilostazol foi significativamente maior do que em Ratos diabéticos tratados com cilostazol e Ratos diabéticos não-tratados (p<0,05). Conclusão: Os resultados demonstraram que o cilostazol teve um efeito protetor contra as alterações causadas pela retinopatia diabética em ratos diabéticos, diminuindo a perda de células ganglionares e reduzindo a atrofia neurossensorial nas camadas retinianas internas.

Coadministration of ibuprofen/caffeine on bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract This clinical trial evaluated the effect of the coadministration of ibuprofen/caffeine on bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity (TS). A triple-blind, parallel-design, randomized clinical trial was conducted on 84 patients who received ibuprofen/caffeine or placebo capsules. The drugs were administered for 48 hours, starting 1 hour before the in-office bleaching. Two bleaching sessions were performed with 35% hydrogen peroxide gel with 1-week interval. TS was recorded up to 48 hours after dental bleaching with a 0-10 visual analogic scale (VAS) and a 5-point numeric rating scale (NRS). The color was evaluated with VITA Classical and VITA Bleachedguide scales (ΔSGU) and VITA Easyshade spectrophotometer (ΔE*ab and ΔE00). The absolute risk of TS in both groups was evaluated using Fischer's exact test. Comparisons of the TS intensity (NRS and VAS data) were performed by using the Mann-Whitney test and a two-way repeated measures ANOVA, respectively. The color alteration between the groups was compared with the Student's t test. The significance level was 5%. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for the absolute risk of TS (p = 1.00) or for the intensity of TS (p > 0.05). A bleaching of approximately 7 shade guide units was observed on the Vita Classical and Vita Bleachedguide scales, with no statistical difference between the groups. It was concluded that coadministration of ibuprofen and caffeine did not reduce the absolute risk or intensity of TS and did not interfere with the efficacy of dental bleaching.

Resumo Este ensaio clínico avaliou o efeito da coadministração de ibuprofeno/cafeína na sensibilidade dental decorrente de clareamento (SD). Um estudo clínico randomizado, paralelo, triplo-cego, foi realizado em 84 pacientes que receberam cápsulas de ibuprofeno/cafeína ou placebo. Os fármacos foram administrados por 48 horas, começando 1 hora antes do clareamento em consultório. Duas sessões de clareamento foram realizadas com gel de peróxido de hidrogênio 35% com intervalo de 1 semana. A SD foi registrada até 48 horas após o clareamento dental com uma escala visual analógica (VAS) de 0-10 e uma escala de classificação numérica (NRS) de 5 pontos. A cor foi avaliada com as escalas Vita Classical e Vita Bleachedguide (ΔSGU) e com o espectrômetro Vita Easyshade (ΔE*ab e ΔE00). O risco absoluto de SD em ambos os grupos foi avaliado por meio do teste exato de Fischer. As comparações da intensidade da SD (NRS e VAS) foram realizadas utilizando-se o teste Mann-Whitney e uma ANOVA de dois fatores com medidas repetidas, respectivamente. A alteração de cor entre os grupos foi comparada com a o teste t de Student. O nível de significância foi de 5%. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos para o risco absoluto de SD (p = 1,00) ou para a intensidade de SD (p > 0,05). Observou-se clareamento de aproximadamente 7 unidades nas escalas Vita Classical e Vita Bleachedguide, sem diferença estatística entre os grupos. Concluiu-se que a coadministração de ibuprofeno e cafeína não reduziu o risco absoluto ou intensidade da SD e não interferiu na eficácia do clareamento dental.

Analysis of diagnostic criteria for ventilator-associated pneumonia: a cohort study / Análisis de criterios diagnósticos de neumonía asociada a la ventilación mecánica: estudio de cohorte / Análise dos critérios diagnósticos de pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica: estudo de coorte

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze the diagnostic criteria for ventilator-associated pneumonia recommended by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency and the National Healthcare Safety Network/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as its risk factors. Methods: retrospective cohort study carried out in an intensive care unit throughout 12 months, in 2017. Analyses included chi-square, simple linear regression, and Kappa statistical tests and were conducted using Stata 12 software. Results: the sample was 543 patients who were in the intensive care unit and under mechanical ventilation, of whom 330 (60.9%) were men and 213 (39.1%) were women. Variables such as gender, age, time under mechanical ventilation, and oral hygiene proved to be significant risk factors for the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Conclusions: patients submitted to mechanical ventilation need to be constantly evaluated so the used diagnostic methods can be accurate and applied in an objective and standardized way in Brazilian hospitals.

RESUMEN Objetivos: analizar los criterios diagnósticos de neumonía asociada la ventilación mecánica recomendados por la Agencia Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria y la National Health Care Safety Network/CDC, así como los factores de riesgo. Métodos: estudio de cohorte retrospectivo realizado en una unidad de terapia intensiva durante 12 meses, en 2017. El análisis se realizó mediante pruebas estadísticas de Chi-cuadrado, regresión lineal simple y test de Kappa, utilizando el programa STATA 12. Resultados: muestra constituida por 543 pacientes hospitalizados en UTI con ventilación mecánica, de ellos 330 (60,9%) eran de sexo masculino, y 213 (39,1%) de sexo femenino. Las variables como sexo, edad, tiempo de ventilación e higiene oral fueron significativas como factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de la NAV. Conclusiones: los pacientes en uso de ventilación mecánica requieren evaluación constante de precisión en los métodos de diagnóstico de manera objetiva y estandarizada en las instituciones hospitalarias brasileñas.

RESUMO Objetivos: analisar os critérios diagnósticos da Pneumonia Associada à Ventilação Mecânica recomendados pela Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária e pela National Healthcare Safety Network/CDC, bem como os fatores de risco. Métodos: estudo de coorte retrospectivo realizado em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva, no período de 12 meses, no ano de 2017. A análise foi realizada por meio de testes estatísticos Qui-Quadrado, regressão linear simples e teste de Kappa, pelo programa STATA 12. Resultados: a amostra constitui-se de 543 pacientes hospitalizados na UTI em ventilação mecânica, destes, 330 (60,9%) eram do sexo masculino e 213 (39,1%) eram do sexo feminino. As variáveis, como sexo, idade, tempo de ventilação e higiene oral, foram significativas como fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento da Pneumonia Associada à Ventilação Mecânica (PAV). Conclusões: os pacientes em uso da ventilação mecânica necessitam de constante avaliação para acurácia dos métodos de diagnósticos, de forma objetiva e padronizada, nas instituições hospitalares brasileiras.

Influence of radiant exposure values from two third generation LED curing units on polymerization profile and microhardness of orthodontic composite under ceramic and metallic brackets

ABSTRACT Introduction: Third generation of LED light curing units might be used in short exposure periods for orthodontic brackets bonding. Objective: This study evaluated the effect of the different radiant exposure (RE) values: Manufacturers' instructions (MI), ½ MI, 1/4 MI and Turbo mode. Two third-generation LED curing units were used: VALO® and Bluephase 20i® . The degree of conversion (DC) and Vickers hardness (VHN) of an orthodontic composite (OC) (Transbond XT) under metallic (MB) or ceramic brackets (CB) were measured. Methods: OC was applied to the bracket base, which was then placed over an attenuated total reflectance (ATR) table coupled to an infrared light spectroscope, or to a glass surface for the VHN analysis. The specimens were light-cured and DC values were calculated. The VHN was obtained in a microhardness tester. The data were analyzed with 2-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post-hoc test (pre-set α=0.05). Linear regression analysis evaluated the relationship between RE values and dependent variables. Results: CB allowed higher DC and VHN values than MB (p< 0.001). No significant difference was noted among groups when CB were used. For MB, MI groups showed the highest DC and VHN values. A significant, but weak relationship was found between delivered RE values and dependent variables. Conclusions: The decrease in RE values from third generation LED CU did not jeopardize the DC values when CB were used, but can compromise DC and VHN values when MB are used.

RESUMO Introdução: A terceira geração de LEDs fotopolimerizadores pode ser utilizada em curtos períodos de exposição para a colagem de braquetes ortodônticos. Objetivo: O presente estudo avaliou o efeito dos diferentes valores de irradiância (IR): instruções do fabricante (IF), ½ IF, » IF e modo Turbo. Dois fotopolimerizadores LED de terceira geração (VALO® e Bluephase20i®) foram utilizados. Foram mensurados o grau de conversão (GC) e a dureza Vickers (VHN) de um compósito ortodôntico (CO) (Transbond XT) sob braquetes metálicos (BM) ou cerâmicos (BC). Métodos: O compósito ortodôntico foi aplicado na base do braquete e foi posicionado sobre uma mesa de refletância total atenuada (ATR) acoplada a um espectroscópio de infravermelho ou a uma superfície de vidro para análise de VHN. As amostras foram fotopolimerizadas e os valores de GC foram calculados. O VHN foi obtido em um microdurômetro. Os dados foram analisados com ANOVA de 2 fatores seguida do teste post-hoc de Tukey (predefinido α = 0,05). A análise de regressão linear avaliou a relação entre os valores de IR e as variáveis dependentes. Resultados: BC permitiu valores maiores de GC e VHN do que BM (p<0,001). Nenhuma diferença significativa foi observada entre os grupos quando BC foi utilizado. Para BM, os grupos de IF mostraram os maiores valores de GC e VHN. Uma relação significativa, mas fraca, entre os valores de IR entregue e as variáveis dependentes foi encontrada. Conclusões: A diminuição dos valores de IR dos fotopolimerizadores LED de terceira geração não prejudicou os valores de GC quando BC foram utilizados, mas pode comprometer os valores de GC e VHN quando BM são utilizados.

Eucalyptus cinerea: Microscopic Profile, Chemical Composition of Essential Oil and its Antioxidant, Microbiological and Cytotoxic Activities

Abstract Eucalyptus species possess anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and insecticidal properties. In this study, the chemical composition and biological activities of Eucalyptus cinerea essential oil (EO) and the leaf and stem anatomy were investigated. EO was extracted by Clevenger apparatus and the compounds were identified by GC/MS. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, and reducing phosphomolybdenum complex. Broth microdilution was used to determine antimicrobial activity. Cytotoxicity was verified against HeLa, HRT-18, and Calu-3 cells by MTT assay. The cytotoxic mechanism was studied by cell DNA content, cell cycle, and DNA fragmentation. The microscopic analyzes of the leaves and the stems were performed by light microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The main constituent of the EO was 1,8-cineole (55.24%). The EO showed low antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Calu-3 cells showed a significant reduction in viability with IC50 of 689.79 ± 29.34 μg/mL. EO at 1000 μg/mL decreased the DNA content in Jurkat cells. In general, EO increased cell percentage in sub-G0 and S phases with concomitant reduction of cell percentage in G0/G1 and G2/M phases and provided DNA fragmentation of 29.73%. Anatomical and micromorphological features of the leaves and stems can help in the species identification and its differentiation from other Eucalyptus species.

Preparation and characterization of liposomes loaded with silver nanoparticles obtained by green synthesis

The objective of this work was to develop and characterize liposomes loaded with silver nanoparticles (LAgNPs) to show improvement in stability characteristics. AgNPs were prepared by the green synthesis method with Aloe vera gel extract and exposure to sunlight. Liposomes were prepared by the modified reverse phase method. Particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, as well as the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphological aspects of AgNPs and LAgNPs were evaluated. In addition, was used flame atomic absorption spectroscopy to determine the amount of AgNP that was encapsulated in liposomes. The AgNPs presented as amorphous and polydisperse structures, with a mean diameter of 278.46 nm and zeta potential of -18.3 mV. LAgNPs had a mean diameter between 321 and 373 nm, the polydispersity index close to 0.2 and a zeta potential around -40 mV, which indicates greater stability to the AgNPs. The images obtained by SEM show semicircular structures for AgNPs and well-defined spherical shape for LAgNPs. The percentage of encapsulation was between 51.81 to 58.83%. These results showed that LAgNPs were obtained with adequate physicochemical characteristics as a release system.

Preparation and characterization of a novel antimicrobial film dressing for wound healing application

Antibacterial activity and good mechanical properties are some of the characteristics required for an appropriate film dressing. A novel polymer blend was developed for wound healing application. Twenty-four formulations using the polymers chitosan, poly(vinyl alcohol) and/or ɛ-Polylysine and the plasticizer glycerol were designed using factorial design and then the films were prepared by the casting/solvent evaporation method. Seventeen films were obtained among the twenty-four proposed formulations that were characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Mechanical properties, such as tensile strength (σ), elongation at break (ɛ) and Young's modulus (Y) as well as antibacterial properties were determined. The best candidate was then further analyzed with regard to porosity, Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR), swelling and cytotoxicity experiments. The results showed a film with semi-occlusive characteristics, good mechanical properties and no toxic. Incorporation of ɛ-Polylysine increased antibacterial activity against gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria

Liposomal anesthetic gel for pain control during periodontal therapy in adults: a placebo-controlled RCT

Abstract Periodontal therapy usually requires local anesthesia. If effective, a non-invasive, liposomal anesthetic gel could increase the levels of acceptance of patients in relation to periodontal therapy. Objective: This study investigated the efficacy of liposomal anesthetic gel for pain control during periodontal therapy. Methodology: Forty volunteers with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis were recruited, of which at least three sextants required periodontal therapy. At least one of the selected teeth had one site with a probing depth of ≥4 mm. The volunteers received the following three gels: a placebo, lidocaine/prilocaine (Oraqix®), or a liposomal lidocaine/prilocaine, which were applied to different sextants. Pain frequency was registered during treatment and the volunteers received a digital counter to register any painful or uncomfortable experiences. At the end of each session, the volunteers indicated their pain intensity using rating scales (NRS-101 and VRS-4). The volunteers had their hemodynamic parameters measured by a non-invasive digital monitor. Results: Pain frequency/intensity did not show statistical difference between intervention groups. The tested gels did not interfere with the hemodynamic indices. Dental anxiety, suppuration and probing depth could influence pain during periodontal therapy. Conclusion: Our results suggest limited indications for the use of non-invasive anesthesia when used for scaling and root planing. Intra-pocket anesthetic gel could be a good option for anxious patients, or those who have a fear of needles.

Surface morphology and in vitro leachability of soft liners modified by the incorporation of antifungals for denture stomatitis treatment

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the surface morphology and in vitro leachability of temporary soft linings modified by the incorporation of antifungals in minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for Candida albicans biofilm. Methodology:Specimens of soft lining materials Softone and Trusoft were made without (control) or with the addition of nystatin (Ny), miconazole (Mc), ketoconazole (Ke), chlorhexidine diacetate (Chx), or itraconazole (It) at their MIC for C. albicans biofilm. The surface analyses were performed using Confocal laser scanning microscopy after 24 h, 7 days, or 14 days of immersion in distilled water at 37ºC. In vitro leachability of Chx or Ny from the modified materials was also measured using Ultraviolet visible spectroscopy for up to 14 days of immersion in distilled water at 37ºC. Data (µg/mL) were submitted to ANOVA 1-factor/Bonferroni (α=0.05). Results: Softone had a more irregular surface than Trusoft. Morphological changes were noted in both materials with increasing immersion time, particularly, in those containing drugs. Groups containing Chx and It presented extremely porous and irregular surfaces. Both materials had biexponential release kinetics. Softone leached a higher concentration of the antifungals than Trusoft (p=0.004), and chlorhexidine was released at a higher concentration than nystatin (p<0.001). Conclusions: The surface of the soft lining materials changed more significantly with the addition of Chx or It. Softone released a higher concentration of drugs than Trusoft did, guiding the future treatment of denture stomatitis.

Ocotea porosa: Anatomy and Histochemistry of Leaves and Stems, Chemical Composition, Cytotoxicity and Insecticidal Activities of Essential Oil

Abstract Ocotea porosa (Nees & Mart.) Barroso, commonly known as "imbuia", "canela-imbuia" or "imbuia-amarela" in Brazil, is a tree of the Southern Atlantic Forest. The present study investigates the anatomy of leaf and stem, volatile oil chemistry, as well as cytotoxicity and insecticidal activities of the essential oil of O. porosa. Species identification was achieved by anatomy features, mainly due to paracytic and anomocytic stomata; non-glandular trichomes; biconvex midrib and petiole with a collateral open arc vascular bundle; presence of a sclerenchymatous layer, starch grains and crystal sand in the stem; and the presence of phenolic compounds in the epidermis, phloem and xylem of the midrib, petiole and stem. The main volatile components of the essential oil were α-pinene (19.71%), β-pinene (13.86%) and bicyclogermacrene (24.62%). Cytotoxicity against human cancer cell (MCF-7), mouse cancer cell (B16F10) and mouse non-tumoral cell (McCoy) was observed as well as insecticidal activity of the essential oil against susceptible 'Ft. Dix' bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) by topical application.

PEG-PCL Nanocapsules Containing Curcumin: Validation of HPLC Method for Analyzing Drug-loading Efficiency, Stability Testing and Cytotoxicity on NIH-3T3 Cell Line

Abstract Curcumin (CUR) shows potential use for treating cancer. However, CUR has low solubility and reduced bioavailability, which limit its clinical effect. Therefore, the development of nanocarriers can overcome these problems and can ensure the desired pharmacological effect. In addition, it is mandatory to prove the quality, the efficacy, and the safety for a novel nanomedicine to be approved. In that sense, this paper aimed (a) to prepare CUR-loaded polyethylene glycol-poly(ε-caprolactone) nanocapsules; (b) to validate an analytical method by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for quantifying CUR in these nanoformulations; (c) to evaluate the physicochemical stability of these formulations; and to investigate their cytotoxicity on NIH-3T3 mouse fibroblast cells. The HPLC method was specific to CUR in the loaded nanocapsules, linear (r = 0.9994) in a range of 10.0 to 90.0 µg.mL-1 with limits of detection and quantification of 0.160 and 0.480 µg.mL-1, respectively. Precision was demonstrated by a relative standard deviation lower than 5%. Suitable accuracy (102.37 ± 0.92%) was obtained. Values of pH, particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential presented no statistical difference (p > 0.05) for CUR-loaded nanoparticles. No cytotoxicity was observed against NIH-3T3 mouse embryo fibroblast cell line using both the tetrazolium salt and sulforhodamine B assays. In conclusion, a simple and inexpensive HPLC method was validated for the CUR quantification in the suspensions of nanocapsules. The obtained polymeric nanocapsules containing CUR showed suitable results for all the performed assays and can be further investigated as a feasible novel approach for cancer treatment.

Effect of Cilostazol-Loaded PCL/PEG Nanocapsules on Abdominal Aortic Tunics and Lipid Profile of Wistar Rats

Abstract Cilostazol (CLZ) is a phosphodiesterase III inhibitor with antiplatelet and vasodilator properties. It has been recently verified that CLZ plays a significant role in the arteries by inhibiting the proliferation and growth of muscle cells, increasing the release of nitric oxide by the endothelium and promoting angiogenesis. Considering these promising effects, the use of nanocapsules may be an interesting strategy to optimize its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics at the vascular level for preventing atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of cilostazol-loaded nanocapsules in the abdominal aortic tunics and on the lipid profile of Wistar rats in order to investigate its potential role in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Thirty-two animals were divided into four groups of eight animals, with 30-day treatment. Group 1 received nanoencapsulated CLZ; Group 2, control nanocapsules with no drug; Group 3, propylene glycol and water; and Group 4, a solution of CLZ in propylene glycol and water. After 30 days, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding the cellularity and thickness of the arterial tunics of the abdominal aorta. However, the group that received nanoencapsulated CLZ (Group 1) had an improvement in HDL-c and triglyceride values compared to unloaded nanocapsules (Group 2).

Characterization and Cytotoxic Evaluation of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles Produced with Aqueous Extract of Lavandula dentata L. in Relation to K-562 Cell Line

Abstract Metallic nanoparticles have great potential as a chemotherapeutic agent. The aim of this study was to develop and characterize silver and gold nanoparticles using a simple method, as well as evaluating the potential cytotoxic activity in relation to the K-562 cell line. For the synthesis, a solution containing the metallic ions was subjected to magnetic stirring with the aqueous extract of Lavandula dentata L. and a change of colour was observed. With the data obtained from the analyses we concluded that the nanoparticles were successfully obtained by a simple and green method using the aqueous extract of L. dentata. The obtained nanoparticles presented a reduced size, a low level of polydispersion, and a homogenous spherical shape. The nanoparticles presented intense and characteristic diffraction peaks, which could be correlated to the planes of the centred cubic structure of the silver and gold. The two formulations presented predominantly crystalline characteristics. The infrared analysis suggested that the amides and alcohols present in the samples may have been responsible for the reduction and limitation of the size and dispersion of the silver and gold nanoparticles. The cytotoxic assay showed that the nanoparticles demonstrated great potential to reduce the cell viability of the K-562 cell line, especially the gold nanoparticles.

Comparative leaf morpho-anatomy of six species of Eucalyptus cultivated in Brazil

ABSTRACT The present work provides a comparative account of the morpho-anatomy of six species of Eucalyptus, namely E. badjensis Beuzev. & Welch, E. benthamii Maiden & Cambage, E. dunnii Maiden, E. grandis W.Hill, E. globulus Labill. and E. saligna Sm., Myrtaceae. Leaf samples of these six species were investigated by light and scanning electron microscopy. The observed microscopic features that can be useful in the identification and quality control of the studied species include the morphology of epicuticular waxes, presence of prismatic crystals on the leaf surface, leaf midrib shape and arrangement of its vascular system, and the presence or absence of the sclerenchymatous fiber caps in the vascular bundle.

Anatomy and volatile oil chemistry of Eucalyptus saligna cultivated in South Brazil

ABSTRACT Eucalyptus saligna Sm., Myrtaceae, commonly known as Sydney blue gum, is often confused with several other species in the genus. The leaf volatile oils of the species have been reported to have antimicrobial, insecticidal, nematicidal, repellent and cytotoxicity properties. The present work provides anatomy as well as volatile oil chemistry of the species collected from South Brazil. The anatomy and histochemistry of the leaves and stems were investigated by light and scanning electron microscopy, and the leaf and stem volatile oils were analyzed by GC-MS. Amphistomatic leaves, anomocytic stomata, presence of papillae and epicuticular waxes, slightly biconvex midrib with a bicollateral vascular bundle in open arc and two dorsal traces, secretory cavities, calcium oxalate druses and prismatic crystals, rounded petiole with a bicollateral vascular bundle in open arc with invaginated ends and rounded stem with sclerenchyma abutting the internal and external phloem are observed in this species. The main components of the volatile oil were p-cymene (28.90%) and cryptone (17.92%). These characteristics can help in the identification and quality control of E. saligna.

A Simple and High-yield Synthesis of Hexadecyl Ferulate and Its In Vitro Antioxidant Potential

ABSTRACT Ferulic acid (FA) is a phenolic compound with well-known antioxidant potential that can be used as a promising anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer molecule. Furthermore, it has been reported to have neuroprotective activity. One of the main problems, which limit its clinical use, is its low bioavailability when administered orally. This limitation can be circumvented by changes in their structure and/or for preparing lipid-based formulations. The aim of this study was to synthesize a derivative of FA, the hexadecyl ferulate (HF). This compound would be more susceptible to pass through blood-brain barrier (BBB) due to its lipophilic character. The HF was obtained by Steglich esterification and yielded 76.77 ± 1.35%. Its structural characterization was performed by spectroscopic methods of Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). FTIR spectrum of HF presented two typical bands of ester group, a C=O ester stretching band at 1725 cm-1 and a C-O stretching band at 1159 cm-1. The 1H and 13C spectral data confirmed the chemical structure of HF. Regarding the 13C NMR spectrum, HF showed a chemical shift at δ 167.39 ppm which corresponded to the carbonyl carbon of the ester group. Concerning the in vitro antioxidant potential, HF had equivalent or improved scavenger activity than FA leading to IC50 values of 0.083 ± 0.009 nmol.mL-1 and 0.027 ± 0.002 nmol.mL-1 in DPPH radical scavenging and ABTS radical cation decolorization assays, respectively. Further studies are required in order to investigate the antioxidant effect of HF in biological media.

Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of The Essential Oil And Anatomical Markers Of Lavandula Dentata L. Cultivated In Brazil

ABSTRACT Lavandula dentata, popularly known as lavender, is commonly used in traditional medicine for the treatment of digestive and inflammatory disorders. The objective of this study was to analyzed the chemical oil composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the essential oil and anatomical markers of the leaf and stem of L. dentata cultivated in South Brazil. Essential oil showed an antioxidant activity similar to rutin and gallic acid when analyzed by phosphomolybdenum method. However, by the free radical DPPH and ABTS methods, it showed a slight potential antioxidant. Essential oil presented 1,8-cineol (63%) as major component, antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria strains and Candida albicans, by broth microdilution. The anatomical profile provided the following main microscopic markers: hypostomatic leaves; diacytic stomata, thin and striate cuticle; multicellular and branched non-glandular trichomes; capitate glandular trichomes; peltate glandular trichomes; dorsiventral mesophyll; flat-convex shape midrib, truncated on the abaxial side; one collateral vascular bundle in the midrib; square stem shape, angular collenchyma alternated with cortical parenchyma; sclerenchymatic fibers well-developed on the four edges.

Effect of the Bis-Dimethylamino Benzydrol Coinitiator on the Mechanical and Biological Properties of a Composite

Abstract To examine the effect of the alternative coinitiator 4,4'bis dimethylamino benzydrol (BZN) in degree of conversion (DC), mechanical and biological properties of experimental composites. The coinitiator BZN was used in three concentrations (0.2, 0.5 and 1.2%), and the coinitiator DMAEMA was used as control at the same concentrations as above. The molar concentration of camphorquinone (CQ) and coinitiators was kept constant (1:1). The composites were manipulated and submitted to microhardness test (VHN), flexural and compressive strength (in MPa), elastic modulus (GPa), DC (FT-IR) and in vitro cytotoxicity (against 3T3 fibroblastic cells) of the experimental resins. Data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey post-test (α=0.05). The experimental composite resin with BZN showed higher DC values compared to control DMAEMA groups. For the mechanical properties, microhardness values were higher in BZN groups; flexural strength and elastic modulus were similar between all the groups. Compressive strength for groups BZN0.5 and DMAEMA0.5 were not statistically different, being the lowest values attributed to group BZN0.2. The experimental resins with BZN and DMAEMA were considered nontoxic against 3T3 fibroblasts. The inclusion of the coinitiator BZN in experimental composites was considered nontoxic against 3T3 fibroblast cells, without compromising DC and mechanical properties.

Resumo Analisar o efeito do co-iniciador alternativo 4,4'bisdimetilaminobenzidrol (BZN) no grau de conversão (GC) e nas propriedades mecânicas e biológicas de resinas compostas experimentais. O co-iniciador BZN foi utilizado em três concentrações (0,2, 0,5 e 1,2), e o co-iniciador DMAEMA como controle, nas mesmas concentrações acima. A concentração molar entre canforoquinona (CQ) e os co-iniciadores foi mantida constante (1:1). As resinas compostas foram manipuladas e submetidas aos testes de microdureza (VHN), resistência à compressão e flexural (em MPa), módulo de elasticidade (em GPa), GC (em %, por meio de espectroscopia micro-Raman e FTIR com KBr), citotoxicidade in vitro (frente às células fibroblásticas 3T3) das resinas experimentais. Os resultados foram submetidos ao teste ANOVA 1 fator e pós-teste de Tukey (α=0,05). As resinas compostas experimentais com o BZN apresentaram GC e propriedades mecânicas satisfatórias, além de serem consideradas atóxicas a fibroblastos 3T3. A inclusão do co-iniciador BZN à resina composta foi considerada não tóxica frente a células fibroblásticas 3T3 e sem comprometer o grau de conversão e as propriedades mecânicas da mesma.

Anatomy and histochemistry of leaves and stems of Sapium glandulosum

Abstract Sapium belongs to Euphorbiaceae family and comprises 23 species. Sapium glandulosum (L.) Morong is popularly known in Brazil as "pau-leiteiro" and "leitosinha" and it is used in traditional medicine to cicatrisation. Its leaf extracts have shown analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. The preliminary set of pharmacognostic tools used for quality assessment of medicinal plant parts is macro- and micro-anatomy and S. glandulosum has not anatomical and histochemical description. Thus the aim of this study was to investigate the anatomical and histochemical characteristics of the leaf and stem of S. glandulosum as a means of providing information for quality assessment of herbal industry. The leaves and stems were investigated by employing field emission scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy, and histochemistry techniques. The analysis showed that S. glandulosum had the following anatomical features: dorsiventral and amphistomatic leaves; paracytic stomata; tabular crystal druses; non-articulated and branched laticifers; midrib's biconvex shape with vascular systems in open arc with invaginated ends; petiole with a round shape and slight concavity on the adaxial side; six collateral vascular bundles in U-shaped organisation; a circular stem shape and a sclerenchymatous ring. In the histochemical tests lipophilic components were found in cuticle and in the latex; phenolic compounds were met in the mesophyll and in the latex; starch grains were found in the parenchymatous sheath; lignified elements were met in the sclerenchymatous ring in the cortex and in the perivascular sclerenchymatous caps, beyond in the vessel elements. These features are helpful when conducting a quality control process.

Comparative morphoanatomical analysis of Mikania species

ABSTRACT Mikania belongs to the Asteraceae family and includes a wide range of promising pharmacological activities. Several species of Mikania, which is popularly known in Brazil as “guaco”, occur in Southern Brazil and their external morphology is similar. The aim of this study was to investigate the morpho-anatomical characteristics of the leaf and stem of Mikania campanulata, Mikania cordifolia, Mikania glomerata, Mikania hastato-cordata, Mikania microptera and Mikania sessilifolia as a means of providing additional support for differentiating these taxa. The leaves and stems were investigated by employing scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy techniques. The morphological features of Mikania spp. leaves make it possible to differentiate between the species; nevertheless, when the plants were fragmented or pulverized the anatomical features of the leaves and stems supplied additional helpful data in this regard. The main anatomical characteristics were presence of hypodermis and lens shaped epidermal cells, set of trichomes; midrib, petiole and stem shape and vascular pattern; sclerenchymatous ring in the cortex, sclerenchymatous cells and secretory ducts in the pith.