Identification of Human Body Fluid Stains and Non-Biological Stains by Three-Dimensional Fluorescence Spectroscopy / 法医学杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To establish a rapid and nondestructive identification method for human body fluid stains and non-biological stains using three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy.@*METHODS@#The collected three-dimensional fluorescence spectrum data of human saliva, 3% blood, coffee and Fanta® stains were processed with dimensionality reduction. After wavelet transform, spectral denoising and feature extraction, the classification formula was established. The Fisher discriminant was used for spectrum matching and recognition to establish the analysis method to distinguish stain types.@*RESULTS@#According to the results of data training and comparison, all the recognition accuracies of Fanta®, coffee, saliva and blood were more than 91.39%. Among them, saliva reached 100% recognition accuracy.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy is a potential method for rapid and nondestructive identification of biological and non-biological stains.

Análise da pigmentação de cerâmicas odontológicas submetidas a diferentes corantes / Analysis of the pigmentation of dentistry ceramics submitted to different dyes

Objetivo: É mérito deste estudo avaliar a pigmentação de cerâmicas odontológicassubmetidas a diferentes tratamentos de superfície e imersasem soluções corantes.Métodos: Foram confeccionadas 60 amostras de cerâmica, divididas em seis grupos. Os grupos G1, G2 e G3 receberam aplicação prévia de glaze, enquanto G4, G5 e G6 foram submetidos a desgastes e polimento. Os grupos foram mantidos em água destilada, açaí e café por um período de 30 dias. Foram realizadas fotografias digitais, seguidas da mensuração de cor da superfície com o programa mColorMeter, com base no sistema CIELab, antes da imersão, após 15 e 30 dias. Para avaliação quantitativa da variação de cor foi utilizada fórmula de ∆E, onde foram obtidos média e desvio padrão de cada grupo. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística ANOVA de dois fatores. Resultados: Após a realização da análise estatística, foram estabelecidos as médias e desvios-padrão para variância de cor (∆E) e foi constatado que não houve resultado estatisticamente significativo, em que p ≤ 0,05, para pigmentação em nenhum dos grupos de cerâmicas. Conclusão: Nesse contexto, infere-se que as substâncias café e açaí não promoveram alterações de cor significativas, bem como o glaze e o polimento mostraram-se igualmente eficientes na manutenção da estabilidade de cor das cerâmicas.

Aim: The present study sought to evaluate the pigmentation of dental ceramics submitted to different surface treatments and immersed in staining solutions. Methods: Sixty ceramic samples were manufactured and divided into six groups. Groups G1, G2, and G3 received a prior glaze application, while groups G4, G5, and G6 were submitted to wear and polishing. The groups were maintained in distilled water, açaí, and coffee for a period of 30 days. Digital photographs were taken, followed by color measurement of the surface with the mColorMeter program, based on system CIELab, before immersion, after 15 and 30 days. For quantitative evaluation of color variation, a formula from ∆E was used, where mean and standard deviation of each group were obtained. The data were submitted to ANOVA statistical analysis of two factors. Result: After the statistical analysis, the means and standard deviations for color variance (∆E) were established, and it was found that there were no statistically significant results, with p ≤ 0.05, for pigmentation in any of the groups of ceramics. Conclusion: Therefore, it can be inferred that coffee and açaí substances did not promote significant color changes. Glaze and polishing also proved equally efficient in maintaining the color stability of the ceramics.

La Tomasa reduce parámetros metabólicos e inflamatorios asociados a síndrome metabólico en un modelo murino / Tomasa reduces metabolic and inflammatory parameters associated with metabolic syndrome in a murine model

In our country, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death. Unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles, among other factors, have contributed to increase the risk for CDV in the population. An alternative to the commonly used pharmacological therapies is the use of validated natural products that can be incorporated in the development of functional foods or supplements. In particular, the tomato has been shown to have a protective role in CVD; its high content of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, provides it with extensively documented beneficial properties. Tomasa, a by-product of the agroindustry, maintains some of the beneficial characteristics of its fruit of origin. Mice fed with a high-fat (hypercaloric) diet increase their body weight and visceral adipose mass, and also display an increase in metabolic and inflammatory parameters. Our results allow us to conclude that the consumption of Tomasa in mice fed a hypercaloric diet reduces the blood levels of cholesterol, glycaemia and pro-inflammatory cytokines. These results support the rationale of using of this by-product in the generation of functional ingredients with proven beneficial effects.

Characterization of the biosorption of fast black azo dye K salt by the bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris 51ATA strain

BACKGROUND: Removal of dyes from wastewater by microorganisms through adsorption, degradation, or accumulation has been investigated. Biological methods used for dye treatment are generally always effective and environmentally friendly. In this study, biosorption of the Fast Black K salt azo dye by the bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris 51ATA was studied spectrophotometrically, at various pH (2­10), temperatures (25°C, 35°C, and 45°C) and dye concentrations (25­400 mg L-1). RESULTS: The bacterial strain showed extremely good dye-removing potential at various dye concentrations. IR studies at different temperatures showed that the dye was adsorbed on the bacterial surface at lower temperatures. Characteristics of the adsorption process were investigated by Scatchard analysis at 25°C and 35°C. Scatchard analysis of the equilibrium binding data for the dye on this bacterium gave rise to linear plots, indicating that the Langmuir model could be applied. The regression coefficients obtained for the dye from the Freundlich and Langmuir models were significant and divergence from the Scatchard plot was observed. CONCLUSION: The adsorption behavior of the dye on this bacterium was expressed by the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherms. The adsorption data with respect to various temperatures provided an excellent fit to the Freundlich isotherm. However, when the Langmuir and Temkin isotherm models were applied to these data, a good fit was only obtained for the dye at lower temperatures, thus indicating that the biosorption ability of R. palustris 51ATA is dependent on temperature, pH, and dye concentration.

Evaluation of equine corneal endothelium after exposure to 0. 05% brilliant blue - an in vitro study / Avaliação do endotélio corneano de equinos após contato com o corante azul brilhante 0, 05% - estudo in vitro

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immediate effects of 0.05% brilliant blue on corneal endothelium of horses. Thirty-eight corneas of 19 horses, male or female, of different ages were studied. Corneas were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1: Corneal endothelium was covered with 0.3mL of brilliant blue 0.05% for 60 seconds followed by rinsing with a balanced salt solution. Group 2: Corneal endothelium was covered with BSS for 60 seconds. The corneas were excised with an 8mm trephine and prepared to analyze posterior endothelial surface using a light microscope (24 corneas) and a scanning electron microscope (14 corneas). The equine posterior corneal endothelium surface observed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed a continuous layer of polygonal cells of uniform size and shape in both the control and treatment groups. Due to non-normal residuals at ANOVA mean comparison, a generalized linear model was utilized at 5% level of significance. The chi-square test stated that treatment and control group were not different statistically. The 0.05% brilliant blue did not cause damage to equine corneal endothelium.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos imediatos de uma solução de 0,05% de azul brilhante sobre o endotélio da córnea de equinos. Trinta e oito córneas de 19 cavalos, machos ou fêmeas, de diferentes idades foram estudadas. As córneas foram divididas aleatoriamente em dois grupos. Grupo 1: O endotélio corneano foi perfundido com 0,3mL de azul brilhante 0,05% durante 60 segundos seguido por irrigação com uma solução salina balanceada. Grupo 2: O endotélio corneano foi perfundido com BSS durante 60 segundos. As córneas foram posteriormente excisadas com trépano de 8mm e preparadas para análise endotelial utilizando um microscópio óptico (24 córneas) e um microscópio eletrônico de varredura (14 córneas). A análise da superfície posterior do endotélio da córnea equina observada por microscopia óptica e microscopia eletrônica de varredura revelou uma camada contínua de células poligonais de tamanho e forma uniformes tanto no grupo controle quanto no grupo tratamento. Devido aos resíduos não normais na comparação da média de ANOVA, utilizou-se um modelo linear generalizado com nível de significância de 5%. Evidenciou-se com o teste qui-quadrado que não houve diferença estatística entre o grupo controle e o grupo tratamento. O azul brilhante de 0,05% não causou dano ao endotélio corneano de equinos.(AU)

Comparación Espectrofotométrica de las Sesiones de Blanqueamiento Intracameral con Peróxido de Hidrógeno y Carbamida a Diferentes Concentraciones / Spectrophotometric Comparison of Intracameral Tooth-Bleaching Sessions Using Hydrogen Peroxide, and Carbamide Peroxide at Different Concentrations

RESUMEN: El objetivo del presente trabajo fue comparar espectrofotométricamente el número de sesiones para un cambio efectivo de coloración con peróxido de carbamida al 100 %, 37 % y peróxido de hidrógeno al 35 %, a través de la técnica Walking Bleach. Este fue un estudio experimental, in vitro, en paralelo, con ciego en la medición del efecto y en el análisis de datos. Se utilizaron 88 premolares extraídos por indicación ortodóncica. Estos fueron tratados endodónticamente y artificialmente pigmentados con cromógenos derivados de productos de descomposición de la sangre. Se dividieron aleatoriamente en 4 grupos de 22 dientes (un grupo por cada agente blanqueador, más un grupo control con agua destilada). El régimen de tratamiento para cada grupo fue de 4 sesiones existiendo una separación de 4 días entre cada una. El registro de color previo (baseline) y posterior a cada aplicación fue realizado mediante el espectrofotómetro dental Vita Easyshade V, con el cual se registraron los colores en espacio de color CIE L*a*b*. Se calcularon posteriormente los valores de la variación total de color (DE) entre los parámetros iniciales y los distintos tiempos de evaluación. El análisis de significancia se realizó mediante la prueba Kruskal-Wallis y para comparar las diferencias se usó el test de comparaciones múltiples por pares mediante el procedimiento de Steel-Dwass-Critchlow-Fligner, registrando diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la variación total del color desde la primera sesión de blanqueamiento. En conclusión, utilizando peróxido de carbamida al 100 %, la técnica Walking Bleach no requiere un menor número de sesiones para un cambio efectivo de coloración al compararlo con peróxido de hidrógeno al 35 %, pero si con relación al peróxido de carbamida al 37 %, donde el objetivo se consigue en un menor número de sesiones.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to spectrophotometrically compare the number of sessions for an effective color change using 100 % and 37 % carbamide peroxide, and 35 % hydrogen peroxide, applying the Walking Bleach technique. This was an experimental study, performed in vitro, in parallel, and was a blind study in relation to the measurement of the effect and the analysis of data. 88 premolars extracted by orthodontics indications were used. These were endodontically treated and artificially pigmented with chromogens derived from blood decomposition products. They were randomly divided into 4 groups of 22 teeth (one group for each whitening agent, plus a control group with distilled water). The treatment regime for each group was 4 sessions, with a separation of 4 days between each session. The registration of color before (baseline) and after each application was done using the dental spectrophotometer Vita Easyshade V, with which the colors were registered in the CIE L*a*b* color space. The values of total color variation (DE) were later calculated between the initial parameters and the different stages of evaluation. Significance testing was undertaken using Kruskal-Wallis and to compare the differences the method used was Steel-Dwass-Critchlow- Fligner, registering significant statistical differences in the total color variation from the first bleaching session. In conclusion, using 100 % carbamide peroxide, the Walking Bleach technique does not require fewer sessions for an effective change in coloration when compared to 35 % hydrogen peroxide, however, it does using 37 % carbamide peroxide, where the result is achieved in a lower number of sessions.

Analysis of Endodontist Posture Utilizing Cinemetry, Surface Electromyography and Ergonomic Checklists

The postural risk factors for dentists include the ease of vision in the workplace, cold, vibration and mechanical pressure in tissues, incorrect posture, functional fixity, cognitive requirements and work-related organizational and psychosocial factors. The objective was to analyze the posture of endodontists at the workplace. Eighteen right-handed endodontists aged 25 to 60 years (34±3) participated in the study. Electromyography, kinemetry, ergonomic scales (RULA and Couto's checklist) and biophotogrammetry were used to analyze the posture of endodontists during root canal treatment of the maxillary right first and second molars using rotary and manual instrumentation. The variations observed in the electromyographic activities during the performance of rotary and manual techniques suggest that the fibers of the longissimus region, anterior and medium deltoid, medium trapezium, biceps, triceps brachii, brachioradialis and short thumb abductor muscles underwent adaptations to provide more accurate functional movements. Computerized kinemetry and biophotogrammetry showed that, as far as posture is concerned, rotary technique was more demanding than the manual technique. In conclusion, the group of endodontists evaluated in this study exhibited posture disorders regardless of whether the rotary or manual technique was used.

Os fatores de risco posturais para cirurgiões dentistas incluem o acesso a visão no local de trabalho, frio, vibração, pressão mecânica nos tecidos, postura incorreta, alterações funcionais, requisitos cognitivos e fatores organizacionais e psicossociais relacionados com o trabalho. O objetivo é analisar a postura dos endodontistas no local de trabalho. Participaram dezoito endodontistas destros com idades entre as idades de 25 e 60 anos (34±3). Nesta pesquisa foi utilizado a eletromiografia, cinemetria, escalas de ergonomia (do RULA e Couto checklist) e biofotogrametria para analisar a postura dos endodontistas durante o preparo químico-mecânico do sistema de canais radiculares para primeiros e segundos molares superiores direitos, utilizando a instrumentação rotatória e manual. As variações observadas nas atividades eletromiográficas durante a execução das técnicas rotatórias e manuais sugerem que as fibras da região dos músculos longuíssimo, deltóide anterior e médio, trapézio médio, bíceps, tríceps braquial, braquiorradial e músculos abdutores curtos do polegar passaram por adaptações para promover movimentos funcionais mais precisos. A cinemetria e biofotogrametria computadorizada mostraram que a técnica rotatória foi mais exigente da postura corporal do que a técnica manual. Em conclusão, os endodontistas estudados apresentaram distúrbios de postura, independentemente da técnica utilizada, rotatória ou manual.

Produção e extração de colorantes naturais de Penicillium purpurogenum DPUA 1275 / Production and extraction of natural colorants from Penicillium purpurogenum DPUA 1275

Há interesse mundial no desenvolvimento de pesquisas envolvendo produção e extração de colorantes naturais, devido a sérios problemas de segurança industrial associados ao uso de colorantes sintéticos. Este trabalho objetivou produzir colorantes naturais de Penicillium purpurogenum DPUA 1275 por cultivo submerso (em frascos agitados e em biorreator) e estudar a extração dos colorantes vermelhos. Para a produção, os estudos iniciais mostraram que 5 discos de micélio, sacarose e extrato de levedura como fontes de carbono e nitrogênio, respectivamente, e 336 horas de cultivo eram condições adequadas para a produção dos colorantes. Visando à otimização da produção, realizaram-se planejamentos fatoriais, com as variáveis independentes: tempo de cultivo; velocidade de agitação; pH; temperatura; concentração de sacarose e de extrato de levedura. As variáveis-respostas foram produção de colorantes amarelos, laranjas e vermelhos. Dos resultados obtidos, as variáveis mais significativas ao processo foram concentrações de extrato de levedura e de sacarose. A produção dos colorantes vermelhos foi otimizada, alcançando a produção de 2,97 UA490nm, nas condições 48,90 e 11,80 g/L de sacarose e extrato de levedura, respectivamente, 30°C, pH 4,5 150 rpm e 336 horas de cultivo. Nos experimentos em biorreator, o melhor resultado foi obtido na frequência de agitação de 500 rpm e na mudança do pH do meio para 8,0, após 96 horas de bioprocesso. Ademais, avaliou-se a estabilidade dos colorantes vermelhos presentes no meio fermentado em diferentes condições (pH, temperatura, sais, polímeros e tensoativos). Referente a pH e temperatura, os colorantes vermelhos mostraram-se mais estáveis nas condições alcalinas e a 70 °C. Tanto os sais (NaCl e Na2SO4) quanto os polímeros (PEG 1.000, 6.000 e 10.000 g/mol e NaPA 8.000 g/mol a 5 e 15%) e os tensoativos (Tween 20, CTAB e SDS) não causaram perda da cor nas condições avaliadas. Estudos de solubilidade e de coeficiente de partição octanol-água mostraram que os colorantes vermelhos apresentam solubilidade superior em solventes polares e característica mais hidrofílica. Nos estudos de extração, as técnicas avaliadas foram Sistemas Poliméricos de Duas Fases Aquosas (SPDFA) formados pelo sistema PEG/NaPA e Colloidal Gas Aphrons (CGA). Pela primeira técnica, os colorantes vermelhos migraram preferencialmente para a fase PEG. Os polímeros PEG 6.000 g/mol, na presença de NaCl 0,1 e 0,5 M, e PEG 10.000 g/mol, com Na2SO4 0,5M, se destacaram dentre as condições analisadas com coeficiente de partição (K) próximo a 13, em ambos os casos, e seletividade de proteínas (SeP) próximas a 3. Para a técnica de CGA, o CTAB proporcionou os melhores resultados, seguido do Tween 20. Porém, o valor de K foi inferior ao obtido com SPDFA, com um máximo de 5 (CTAB 2 mM/pH 9,0). Os resultados obtidos demonstram um novo produtor de colorantes naturais, as quais têm potencial de aplicação em diversos segmentos industriais. Ademais, os resultados obtidos mostraram a eficiência das técnicas utilizadas para extração dos colorantes vermelhos, com destaque para SPDFA, que apresentou maiores valores de K

There is worldwide interest in developing research projects involving the production and extraction of natural colorants due to serious safety problems associated with industrial use of synthetic ones. The aim of this work was to investigate the production of natural colorants from Penicillium purpurogenum DPUA 1275 by submerged culture (rotatory shaker and bioreactor) besides studying the red colorants extraction. To the production step, initial studies showed that 5 agar mycelial discs, sucrose and yeast extract as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively, and 336 hours of bioprocess promoted the best results. To optimize the colorants production a serie of factorial designs were performed. The independent variables studied were: fermentation time, agitation speed, pH, temperature, sucrose and yeast extract concentration under the responses production of yellow, orange and red colorants. From these results, the most significant variables for the process were sucrose and yeast extract concentration. The red colorants production was optimized achieving 2.97 UA490nm, in the following conditions: 48.90 and 11.80 g/L of sucrose and yeast extract, respectively, 30 °C, 4.5 pH, 150 rev min-1 and 336 hours of culture. In the experiments performed in bioreactor, the condition that promoted the best results was 500 rpm and pH adjusted for 8.0 after 96 hours of bioprocess. Furthermore, we evaluated the red colorants stability at different conditions (pH, temperature, salts, polymers and surfactants). Concerning to pH and temperature, the red colorants were more stable under basic conditions and 70 °C; not only the salts (NaCl and Na2SO4) but also the polymers (PEG 1000, 6000 and 10000 g/mol and NaPA 8000 g/mol) and the surfactants (Tween 20, CTAB and SDS) not promoted loss of color upon the conditions evaluated. Studies of red colorants solubility and octanol water coefficient showed that these compounds exhibit a higher solubility in polar solvents and present hydrophilic characteristics. Subsequently, the extraction of red colorant was evaluated through two extraction methods: Polymeric Systems Aqueous Two Phase (ATPS) composed by PEG and NaPA and Colloidal Gas Aphrons (CGA). For the first technique, the red colorant preferentially migrated to the PEG phase. The best results were obtained with PEG 6000 g/mol in the presence of 0.1 to 0.5 M NaCl and with PEG 10000 g/mol with 0.5 M Na2SO4. To both cases the partition coefficient (K) was close to 13 and the Selectivity in terms of proteins (SeP) was close to 3. For the CGA technique, CTAB gave the best results followed by Tween 20. However, the K values were lower than the ones obtained with ATPS with a maximum of 5 in the following condition: CTAB 2 mM/pH 9.0. For the SeP, the values obtained for both techniques were close. The results above show a new producer of natural colorants which have potential application in various industries. Moreover, the results show the efficiency of the techniques used to extract the red colorants, especially to ATPS that presented higher K values

A comparison of silver staining protocols for detecting DNA in polyester-backed polyacrylamide gel

Eight silver-staining protocols were applied to detect DNA in polyester-backed gels to select the optimal. Results showed important differences in staining quality and that four methods were well-suited for TGGE gels due to high sensitivity and low background, including the Bassam et al. methods, the manufacturer method and our improved method.

Propostas metodologicas para componentes em matrizes alimenticias, alimentos enriquecidos e contaminantes utilizando eletroforese capilar acoplada a espectrometria de massas e detecção UV/VIS / Methodological proposals for food matrix components, enriched foods and contaminants using capillary electrophoresis coupled to mass spectrometry and UV/Vis detection

O trabalho envolve o desenvolvimento de métodos para análise de alimentos visando a determinação de ácidos fenólicos em frutas, ácido fólico em farinhas enriquecidas e corantes Sudan em produtos de pimenta utilizando eletroforese capilar nos modos de detecção UV e MS. A separação de dez ácidos fenólicos (ácidos clorogênico, siríngico, p-cumárico, benzóico, p-hidroxibenzóico, ferúlico, vanílico, cafeico, gálico e protocatecuico) foi obtida por eletroforese capilar de zona (CZE). Um eletrólito composto de 50 mmol L-1 de tetraborato e 7,5% metanol (v/v) permitiu a separação em linha de base dos dez ácidos fenólicos em menos de 15 minutos. A fim de promover o "clean-up", pré-concentração e liberação dos ácidos fenólicos esterificados, um procedimento de extração líquido-líquido seguido pela hidrólise alcalina foi realizado. O método foi validado obtendo-se limites de detecção de 1,63-3,80 µg mL-1 e limites de quantificação de 4,95-11,39 µg mL-1. O método otimizado foi aplicado para análise de frutas como a abiu-roxo (Chrysophyllum caimito), amora silvestre (Morus nigra L.) e tomate de árvore (Cyphomandra betacea), identificando os ácidos fenólicos na fração livre e hidrolisada. Este trabalho também otimizou o processo de extração e caracterizou a composição de ácidos fenólicos na forma livre e hidrolisada presentes no açaí Juçara (Euterpe precatória Mart.), açaí do Pará (Euterpe oleracea) e em produtos comercias de açaí como polpa congelada e "açaí na tigela". Para a determinação do ácido fólico, estudos de pré-concentração online foram realizados. A focalização do ácido fólico foi obtida por CZE e MEKC, devido a fenômenos de isotacoforese transiente. Um método de extração simples baseado na dissolução da farinha em solução de Na2HPO4 seguida de ultrassom e adição de HCl concentrado foi adotado. Entretanto, a detecção do ácido fólico no extrato foi obtida por MEKC com injeção de grande volume de amostra em condições eletroforéticas de 40 mmol L-1 TBS e 30 mmol L-1 SDS, 15 kV a 310 nm. Os limites de detecção e de quantificação atingidos foram de 0,047 e 0,14 µg mL-1, sendo adequados para quantificação do ácido fólico em farinhas de trigo. Um método para determinação de corantes Sudan (I, II, III e IV) em alimentos foi desenvolvido por cromatografia eletrocinética micelar (MEKC) com preenchimento parcial do capilar. A separação dos quatro corantes foi obtida utilizando-se um preenchimento de 25% do capilar (volume total) com eletrólito composto por 40 mmol L-1 NH4HCO3, 25 mmol L-1 SDS e 32,5% ACN (v/v). O restante do capilar foi preenchido com um tampão composto de 40 mmol L-1 NH4HCO3 e 32,5% (v/v) de ACN. Após otimização do método por CE-UV o método foi aplicado para o acoplamento ao CE-MS. Para detecção dos compostos no MS os parâmetros de ionização foram otimizados. A separação em linha de base dos quatro compostos foi obtida em menos de 10 min com limites de detecção de 0,57 a 0,75 µg mL-1 para detecção no UV-Vis e 0,05 a 0,2 µg mL-1 para detecção no MS. O método foi eficaz para a determinação destes corantes adicionados a amostras de molho de tomate e pimenta e chilli em pó

The present work involves the development of methods for food analysis in order to determinate phenolic acids in fruits, folic acid in enriched flour and Sudan dye in chilli products by capillary electrophoresis with UV/Vis and MS detection. The separation of ten phenolic acids (benzoic, caffeic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, ferulic, gallic, p-hydroxybenzoic, protocatechuic, syringic, and vanillic acid) was obtained by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). An electrolyte composed by 50 mmol L-1 of tetraborate and 7,5% methanol (v/v) allowed the baseline resolution of all phenolic acids under investigation in less than 15 min. In order to promote sample clean up, to preconcentrate the phenolic fraction and to release esterified phenolic acids from the fruit matrix, elaborate liquid-liquid extraction procedures followed by alkaline hydrolysis were performed. The proposed method was validated with limits of detection of 1.63-3.80 µg mL-1 and limits of quantification of 4.95-11.39 µg mL-1. The optimized method was applied to evaluation of phenolic contents of abiu-roxo (Chrysophyllum caimito), wild mulberry (Morus nigra L.) and tree tomato (Cyphomandra betacea). This work also optimized the extraction process and characterized the free and hydrolysed forms of phenolic acids in Juçara açaí (Euterpe precatória Mart.), Pará´s açaí (Euterpe oleracea) and commercial products such as frozen pulp and açaí desserts. For the determination of folic acid, on-line preconcentration studies were performed. The focalization of folic acid was obtained by CZE and MEKC by transient isotacophoresis. A simple method of extraction based on dissolution of flour in a Na2HPO4 solution followed by ultrasonication and the addition of concentrated HCl was adopted. However, the detection of folic acid in flour extract was obtained by MEKC with the large volume sample injection with eletrophoretic conditions of 40 mmol L-1 TBS and 30 mmol L-1 SDS, 15 kV and 310 nm. The limits of detection and quantification reached were 0.047 and 0.14 µg mL-1, which are suitable limits to quantify folic acid in enriched wheat flours. A method of Sudan dyes (I, II, III and IV) was developed by micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) with partial filling technique. Filling 25 % of the capillary with a MEKC solution containing 40 mmol L-1 NH4HCO3, 25 mmol L-1 SDS and 32.5 % ACN (v/v), a baseline separation of the four azo-dyes was obtained. The rest of capillary was filled with 40 mmol L-1 NH4HCO3 and 32.5 % ACN (v/v). After the optimization by CE-UV the method was applied to CE-MS coupling. To detect the compounds in MS the ionization parameters were optimized. The baseline separation of four compounds was obtained in less than 10 min with limit of detection within 0.57 to 0.75 µg mL-1 to UV-Vis detection and 0.05 to 0.2 µg mL-1 to MS detection. The method was efficient in the determination of these dyes spiked in tomato chilli sauces and chilli powder

Morphology of the male agouti accessory genital glands (Dasyprocta prymnolopha Wagler, 1831) / / Morfologia das glândulas genitais acessórias em cutias (Dasyprocta prymnolopha Wagler, 1831)

The morphology of the accessory genital glands of the male agouti was studied in twenty-three animals that were raised in captivity. Twenty animals had their genital glands dissected in situ for macroscopic description. The samples of each gland were recovered, embedded in paraffin, sliced and stained by Hematoxylin-Eosin technique. It was founded four pairs of glands: the vesicular glands, the coagulating glands, the prostate and the bulbourethral glands. Histological characteristics of the vesicular, coagulating and prostate glands showed similar morphology, within the pseudostratified columnar epithelium. The tubulo-alveolar type of the bulbourethral glands showed a lack of connective tissue among the tubules, a small amount of red stained presented it the cytoplasm, and the presence of vacuoles in the tissue. This study concluded that the agouti showed to have similar morphological aspect described in the others species of rodents.

A morfologia das glândulas genitais acessórias de cutias foram estudados em 23 animais criados em cativeiros. Vinte animais tiveram suas glândulas genitais dissecadas in situ para as descrições macroscópicas. Para o estudo microscópico foram utilizados três animais. Os fragmentos de cada glândula foram embebidos em parafina, seccionados e corados em hematoxilina e eosina. Foram encontrados quatro pares de glândulas: vesiculares, coaguladoras, próstata e bulbouretrais. As características histológicas da glândula vesicular, coaguladora e próstata mostraram morfologia similar, com epitélio colunar pseudoestratificado. O tipo tuboalveolar da glândula bulbouretral mostrou uma deficiência de tecido conjuntivo, citoplasma pouco corado e presença de vacúolos. Este estudo concluiu que a cutia apresenta as mesmas características morfológicas das glândulas genitais acessórias encontradas em roedores.

Decolorization of different textile dyes by Penicillium simplicissimum and toxicity evaluation after fungal treatment

The objective of this study was to investigate the capacity of decolorization and detoxification of the textile dyes Reactive Red 198 (RR198), Reactive Blue 214 (RB214), Reactive Blue 21 (RB21) and the mixture of the three dyes (MXD) by Penicillium simplicissimum INCQS 40211. The dye RB21, a phthalocyanine, was totally decolorized in 2 days, and the others, the monoazo RR198, the diazo RB214 and MXD were decolorized after 7 days by P. simplicissimum. Initially the dye decolorization involved dye adsorption by the biomass followed by degradation. The acute toxicity after fungal treatment was monitored with the microcrustacean Daphnia pulex and measured through Effective Concentration 50 percent (EC50). P. simplicissimum reduced efficiently the toxicity of RB21 from moderately acutely toxic to minor acutely toxic and it also reduced the toxicity of RB214 and MXD, which remained minor acutely toxic. Nevertheless, the fungus increased the toxicity of RR198 despite of the reduction of MXD toxicity, which included this dye. Thus, P. simplicissimum INCQS 40211 was efficient to decolorize different textile dyes and the mixture of them with a significant reduction of their toxicity. In addition this investigation also demonstrated the need of toxicological assays associated to decolorization experiments.

Screening for ligninolytic enzymes from autochthonous fungi and applications for decolorization of Remazole Marine Blue / Triagem de enzimas ligninolíticas de fungos autóctones e aplicações para descoloramento de Remazole Marine Blue

This study presents new and alternative fungal strains for the production of ligninolytic enzymes which have great potential to use in industrial and biotechnological processes. Thirty autochthonous fungal strains were harvested from Bornova-Izmir in Turkiye. In the fresh fruitbody extracts laccase, manganese peroxidase and lignin peroxidase activities, which are the principal enzymes responsible for ligninocellulose degradation by Basidiomycetes, were screened. Spores of some of the basidiomycetes species such as Cortinarius sp., Trametes versicolor, Pleurotus ostreatus, Abortiporus biennis, Lyophyllum subglobisporium, Ramaria stricta, Ganoderma carnosum, Lactarius delicious ve Lepista nuda were isolated and investigated optimum cultivation conditions in submerged fermentation for high yields of ligninolytic enzyme production. In addition, isolated fungal strains were monitored on agar plates whether having the capability of decolorization of a textile dye Remazol Marine Blue.

Este estudo apresenta novas cepas de fungos produtores de enzimas ligninolíticas com potencial de aplicação em processos industriais e biotecnológicos. Trinta cepas de fungos autóctones foram obtidos em Bornova-Izmir, Turquia. Os extratos frescos dos corpos de frutificação foram submetidos à triagem de atividade de lacase, manganês peroxidase e lignina peroxidase, que são as principais enzimas de degradação de ligninocelulose pelos Basidiomycetes. Foram isolados esporos de Cortinarius sp, Tramnetes versicolor, Pleorotus ostreatus, Abortiporus biennis, Lyophyllum subglobisporium, Ramaria stricta, Ganoderma carnosum, Lactarius delicius ve Lepista desnuda, investigando-se as condições ótimas de cultivo em fermentação submersa para produção de enzimas ligninolíticas com elevado rendimento. Além disso, as cepas fúngicas isoladas foram monitoradas em placas de ágar quanto a capacidade de descoloramento do corante têxtil Remazole Marine Blue.

Xenobiotics enhance laccase activity in alkali-tolerant gama-proteobacterium JB / Xenobióticos aumentam a atividade de lacase em gama-Proteobacterium JB alcali-tolerante

Various genotoxic textile dyes, xenobiotics, substrates (10 µM) and agrochemicals (100 µg/ml) were tested for enhancement of alkalophilic laccase activity inã-proteobacterium JB. Neutral Red, Indigo Carmine, Naphthol Base Bordears and Sulphast Ruby dyes increased the activity by 3.7, 2.7, 2.6 and 2.3 fold respectively. Xenobiotics/substrates like p-toluidine, 8-hydroxyquinoline and anthracine increased it by 3.4, 2.8 and 2.3 fold respectively. Atrazine and trycyclozole pesticides enhanced the activityby 1.95 and 1.5 fold respectively.

Vários corantes têxteis genotóxicos, xenobióticos, substratos (10 mM) e agroquímicos (100 mM/mL) foram testados quanto ao aumento da atividade de lacase em ã-Proteobacterium JB. Os corantes Neutral Red, Indigo Carmine, Naphtol Base Bordears e Sulphast Ruby aumentaram a atividade em 3,7, 2,7, 2,6 e 2,3 vezes, respectivamente. Xenobióticos/substratos como p-toluidina, 8-hidroxiquinolina e antracina aumentaram a atividade em 3,4, 2,8 e 2,3 vezes, respectivamente. Atrazina e pesticidas triciclozol aumentaram a atividade em 1,95 e 1,5 vezes, respectivamente.

Ligninases production by Basidiomycetes strains on lignocellulosic agricultural residues and their application in the decolorization of synthetic dyes / Produção de ligninases por linhagens de fungos Basidiomicetos usando resíduos agrícolas lignocelulósicos e aplicação das enzimas na descoloração de corantes sintéticos

Wood rotting Basidiomycetes collected in the ôEstação Ecológica do Noroeste Paulistaõ, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo State, Brazil, concerning Aphyllophorales order and identified as Coriolopsis byrsina SXS16, Lentinus strigellus SXS355, Lentinus sp SXS48, Picnoporus sanguineus SXS 43 and Phellinus rimosus SXS47 were tested for ligninases production by solid state fermentation (SSF) using wheat branor rice straw as culture media. C. byrsina produced the highest laccase (200 U mL-1) and Lentinus sp produced the highest activities of manganese peroxidase (MnP) and lignin peroxidase (LiP) (7 and 8 U mL-1, respectively), when cultivated on wheat bran. The effect of N addition on enzyme production was studied in medium containing rice straw and the data showed an increase of 3 up to 4-fold in the laccase production compared to that obtained in SSF on wheat bran. The laccases presented optimum pH at 3.0-3.5 and were stable at neutral pH values. Optimum pH for MnP and LiP activities was at 3.5 and between 4.5 and 6.0, respectively. All the strains produced laccase with optimum activities between 55-60ºC while the peroxidases presented maximum activity at temperatures of 30 to 55ºC. The crude enzymes promoted decolorization of chemically different dyes with around 70% of decolorization of RBBR and cybacron blue 3GA in 6h oftreatment. The data indicated that enzymes from these basidiomycetes strains are able to decolorize synthetic dyes.

Fungos decompositores de madeira, do grupo Basidiomicetes, coletados na ôEstação Ecológica do NoroestePaulistaõ, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brasil, pertencentes a ordem Aphyllophorales e identificados como Coriolopsis byrsina SXS16, Lentinus strigellus SXS355, Lentinus sp. SXS48,Picnoporus sanguineus SXS 43 e Phellinus rimosus SXS47 foram estudados para a produção de ligninases por FES (fermentação em estado sólido) usando farelo de trigo ou palha de arroz como meio de cultura. A espécie C. byrsina produziu a maior quantidade de lacase (200 U mL-1) enquanto que Lentinus sp. foi o melhor produtor de manganês peroxidase (MnP) e lignina peroxidase (LiP) (7 e 8 U mL-1, respectivamente), quando cultivados em meio composto por farelo de trigo. A avaliação do efeito da suplementação de nitrogênio do substrato sólido lignocelulósico (palha de arroz) indicou um aumento de 3 a 4 vezes na produção de lacase. A caracterização das enzimasmostrou que as lacases apresentaram atividade ótima em pH 3,0-3,5 e foram estáveis em pH de neutro a alcalino. O pH ótimo para atividade de MnP e LiP foi de 3,5 e entre 4,5 e 6,0, respectivamente. Todas as linhagens produziram lacase com atividade ótima a 55-60ºC, enquanto as peroxidases apresentaram atividades máximas entre temperaturas de 30 e 55ºC. A aplicaçãodas soluções enzimáticas brutas, obtidas pelo cultivo das linhagens em meio de farelo de trigo, em testes de descoloração de corantes sintéticos de diferentes grupos químicos levou amais 70% de perda de cor dos corantes RBBR e de cybacron blue 3GA, em 6h de tratamento. Os dados obtidos indicaramque as soluções enzimáticas contendo ligninases produzidas pelas linhagens de basidiomicetos estudadas promoveram adescoloração de corantes sintéticos.

Biofilm formation by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolates from device-associated nosocomial infections / Formación de biopelículas por aislamientos de Stenotrophomonas maltophilia recuperados de infecciones nosocomiales asociadas al uso de dispositivos médicos

Medical devices are often colonized by bacteria which may cause severe infections. The aim of this work was to evaluate biofilm formation by S. maltophilia isolates from device-associated nosocomial infections. The 13 local isolates exhibited different capacities of biofilm formation on hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces. All isolates formed strong biofilms in polystyrene microplates, while strong, moderate or weak biofilms were detected in borosilicate (BS) or polypropylene (PP) tubes. The proficiency of biofilm formation was better evaluated by the level of crystal violet staining expressed relative to the final culture density. The microscopic analysis of biofilms formed on glass coverslips revealed the presence of a matrix of exopolysaccharides and microcolonies typical of biofilm architecture. Isolates with increased adhesion to BS showed larger microcolonies. According to our results, twitching correlated well with attachment to the three abiotic surfaces tested, while swimming only showed a slight correlation with biofilm formation on PP. Poor correlation was observed between cell surface hydrophobicity and biofilm formation. One of the highest biofilm-producing isolates adhered to urethral catheters of different materials, and exhibited an increased resistance to oxidative stress, one of the common stresses encountered by bacteria during the infection process due to the immune response.

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la formación de biopelículas por parte de aislamientos de Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Los 13 aislamientos locales evaluados mostraron diferente capacidad de formar biopelículas en superficies hidrofílicas e hidrofóbicas. Todos ellos formaron biopelículas fuertes en microplacas de poliestireno (PS), mientras que se observaron biopelículas fuertes, moderadas o débiles en tubos de borosilicato (BS) o polipropileno (PP). La medida del cristal violeta unido a la biopelícula expresada en función de la densidad final de los cultivos permitió una mejor evaluación de la eficiencia de formación de biopelículas. El análisis microscópico de biopelículas formadas sobre cubreobjetos mostró la presencia de una matriz de exopolisacáridos y microcolonias típicas de la arquitectura de las biopelículas. Los aislamientos con mayor adhesión a BS mostraron microcolonias de mayor tamaño. La motilidad asociada a superficies ( twitching) presentó buena correlación con la adhesión a BS, PP y PS, mientras que la motilidad asociada a flagelos solo correlacionó ligeramente con la adhesión a PP. La correlación entre la hidrofobicidad de la superficie bacteriana y la formación de biopelículas fue escasa. Uno de los aislamientos productores de biopelículas fuertes evidenció capacidad de adhesión a catéteres uretrales de diferentes materiales y mayor resistencia al estrés oxidativo.

Screening mitosporic fungi for organochlorides degradation

Fifty-five isolates of filamentous fungi were studied regarding their ability to decolorize Remazol brilliant blue R dye. The fungi were isolated from soil in the Baixada Santista region, which is contaminated with industrial residues containing a mixture of organochlorine compounds, mainly hexachlorobenzene. The fungi were grown in liquid malt extract medium with 0.02 percent of dye and shaken at 200 rpm for 14 days at 28 ± 2°C. Two types of behavior regarding the dye were observed: adsorption and degradation. Eupenicillium baarnenseSsp1951 and Ssp1952 and Eupenicilliumcrustaceum SSP1953 presented high RBBR decolorization and were then analyzed regarding their ability to degrade 14C-hexachlobenzene (4138.31 mg HCB per kg soil) during a 56 days culture at 28 ± 2°C. Eupenicillium crustaceum SSP1953 was able to reduce n-hexane soluble 14C-compounds (24.6 percent) and to form non-extractable 14C-residues (20.5 percent). The same behavior was also observed in the two E. baarnense strains (Ssp1951 and Ssp1952) but the percentages were lower than those obtained for Eupenicilliumcrustaceum. The main action of Eupenicillium spp on HCB is to transform it into non-extractable 14C-residues as confirmed by the gas chromatography results.

Cinqüenta e cinco isolados de fungos filamentosos foram avaliados quanto a capacidade de descolorir o corante remazol brilliant blue R. Estes fungos foram isolados de solos da Região da Baixada Santista contaminados com resíduos industriais contendo uma mistura de organoclorados, principalmente hexaclorobenzeno. O crescimento dos fungos foi realizado em meio líquido de extrato de malte contendo 0,02 por cento do corante, sob agitação de 200 rpm, durante 14 dias a 28°C ± 2. Foi possível verificar, entre os fungos avaliados, dois comportamentos em relação ao corante: adsorção e degradação. Eupenicillium baarnense SSp1951 e sSp1952 e Eupenicilliumcrustaceum SSP1953 apresentaram altas porcentagens de descoloração do RBBR. Estes fungos foram, então, avaliados quanto a sua capacidade de degradar 14C-hexaclorobenzeno (4138,31 mg de hexaclorobenzeno kg-1 de solo) durante 56 dias a 28°C ± 2. Eupenicillium crustaceum SSP1953 foi capaz de reduzir em 24,6 por cento os 14C-compostos solúveis em n-hexano e formar 20,5 por cento de 14C-resíduos não extraíveis. As duas linhagens de E. baarnense (Ssp1951 e Ssp1952) também apresentaram o mesmo comportamento, porém com porcentagens inferiores à observada para Eupenicillium crustaceum. A principal ação de Eupenicillium spp sobre hexaclorobenzeno foi transformá-lo em 14C-resíduos não extraíveis, como comprovaram os resultados da cromatografia gasosa.

Excipientes de medicamentos e as informações da bula / Pharmaceutical excipients and the information on drug labels

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a presença de conservantes, corantes, adoçantes e aromatizantes em 73 apresentações farmacêuticas de 35 medicamentos para uso oral, e as informações da bula sobre excipientes. MÉTODOS: Selecionamos 35 medicamentos, de venda livre ou sob prescrição médica, comercializados no Brasil. A amostra incluiu: analgésicos/antitérmicos, antimicrobianos, mucolíticos, antitussígenos, descongestionantes, anti-histamínicos, broncodilatadores, corticosteróides, antiinflamatórios e suplementos vitamínicos. Foram analisadas 73 apresentações desses fármacos, anotando-se as informações da bula sobre conservantes, corantes, adoçantes e aromatizantes. RESULTADOS: A bula de um medicamento (1,3 por cento) não mencionava os ingredientes inativos. Os conservantes mais encontrados nos medicamentos foram metilparabeno e propilparabeno (43 por cento e 35,6 por cento respectivamente). Os adoçantes mais usados foram: sacarose (açúcar) (53,4 por cento), sacarina sódica (38,3 por cento) e sorbitol (36,9 por cento). Vinte e um produtos (28,7 por cento) continham dois adoçantes. Predominaram os medicamentos sem corante (43,8 por cento), seguidos pelos coloridos por amarelo crepúsculo (amarelo FD&C no. 6) (15 por cento). Cinco produtos (6,8 por cento) continham mais de um corante. A tartrazina (amarelo FD&C no. 5) foi encontrada em sete formulações (9,5 por cento). Os aromatizantes mais usados foram os de frutas (83 por cento). Constatamos a freqüente omissão das bulas sobre o teor exato de açúcar dos produtos (77 por cento). Duas das quatro bulas de medicamentos contendo aspartame não mencionavam as precauções no uso por fenilcetonúricos. CONCLUSÕES: A omissão e a imprecisão das informações da bula sobre os excipientes farmacêuticos expõem os indivíduos suscetíveis ao risco de reações adversas dos conservantes e corantes. Também podem ocorrer complicações do uso inadvertido de medicamentos contendo açúcar pelos pacientes diabéticos, ou de fármacos adoçados com aspartame pelos fenilcetonúricos.

AIM: to evaluate the presence of preservatives, dyes, sweeteners and flavouring substances in 73 pharmaceutical preparations of 35 medicines for oral administration, according to drug labeling information about the excipients. METHODS: 35 medications were selected, both over-the-counter and prescription durgs, marketed in Brazil. The sample included: analgesic/antipyretic, antimicrobial, mucoregulatory, cough and cold, decongestant, antihistamine, bronchodilator, corticosteroid, antiinflammatory and vitamin medications. We collected data on 73 preparations of these drugs, according to drug labeling information regarding preservatives, dyes, sweeteners and flavourings. RESULTS: Methylparaben and propylparaben were the most common preservatives found (43 percent and 35.6 percent respectively). The most common sweeteners were: sucrose (sugar) (53.4 percent), sodium saccharin (38.3 percent) and sorbitol (36.9 percent). Twenty-one medicines (28,7 percent) contained two sweeteners. Colourless medicines predominated (43.8 percent), followed by those with sunset yellow dye (FD&C yellow no. 6) (15 percent). Five products (6.8 percent) contained more than one colour agent. Tartrazine (FD&C yellow no. 5) was present in seven preparations (9.5 percent). Fruit was the most common flavouring found (83 percent). Labelings of drugs which contained sugar frequently omitted its exact concentration (77 percent). Of the four labelings of medicines which contained aspartame, two did not warn patients regarding phenylketonuria. CONCLUSION: Omission and inacuracy of drug labeling information on pharmaceutical excipients may expose susceptible individuals to adverse reactions caused by preservatives and dyes. Complications of inadvertent intake of sugar-containing medicines by diabetics, or aspartame intake by patients with phenylketonuria may also occur.

Biosorption of Baftkar textile effluent.

Decolourization of wastewater from a textile plant by a marine Aspergillus niger was studied. The fungus was previously isolated from Gorgan Bay in the Caspian Sea. The kinetics of decolourization was studied by varying energy sources. The best decolourization was achieved when sucrose was used as source of carbon and energy. NH4+ ion was demonstrated to be the best nitrogen source. Color reduction was found to increase from 80-97% as inoculum concentration increased from 0.04-1.0 g/L. A minimum inoculum of 0.2 g/L is necessary to achieve decolourization. The optimal temperature for the growth of A. niger on Baftkar wastewater is found to be 30 degrees C. 90-96% colour reduction is achieved in 19-20 hr of contact of mycelium cell with the wastewater. Colour reduction in a continuous column reactor of 70% was obtained using treated mycelium (NaOH, 90 degrees C) after 1 hr.

Diagnostic potential of histochemical demonstration for copper-orcein stain.

The histochemical demonstration of hepatic copper is important in the diagnosis of paediatric copper storage disorders. Conflicting results have been published regarding ability of different histochemical stains to demonstrate copper storage in the liver. Hence the authors retrospectively analysed eighty-two liver biopsies from 82 patients of Indian childhood cirrhosis (ICC), 59 males and 23 females aged between 1-4 years (mean age 3.1 years). All cases were stained with orcein stain. On the basis of histological picture the liver biopsies were divided into the three histological grades I, II and III. Orcein positively was graded from I to IV. All cases showed positivity with orcein stain. Most cases showed grades II and III of orcein positivity. The association between histological and orcein grades was significant. The present study demonstrates the diagnostic utility of orcein stain in liver copper storage disorder, Indian childhood cirrhosis. Variable copper content in the same histological grade of the disease could be due to individual factors such as genetic milieu which determine the amount of copper liver can store without toxicity.