Hancornia speciosa serum latex fraction: a non-allergenic biomaterial / Fração soro do látex de Hancornia speciosa: um biomaterial não alergênico

Abstract Plant-derived products can assist in the healing process of dermal wounds. It has been demonstrated that Hancornia speciosa latex present angiogenic, osteogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Then, it could contribute to the wound healing process. However, natural products in contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The objective of this work was to evaluate the allergic and irritant potential of H. speciosa serum fraction latex using in vitro assays. The obtained results showed that the H. speciosa serum fraction latex has a slightly irritant potential and is not cytotoxic neither allergenic for human cells. Moreover, we identified a remarkable low amount of proteins in this material in comparison to Hevea brasiliensis latex. This result could explain the non-allergenic potential of H. speciosa serum fraction latex because proteins present in latex are the main responsible for allergy. This biomaterial could be used as a non-allergenic source for development of new medicines.

Resumo Produtos derivados de plantas podem auxiliar no processo de cicatrização de feridas cutâneas. Foi demonstrado que o látex de Hancornia speciosa apresenta atividades angiogênicas, osteogênicas, antiinflamatórias e antioxidantes. Então, este biomaterial pode contribuir para o processo de cicatrização de feridas. No entanto, produtos naturais em contato com a pele podem causar dermatites. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial alérgico e irritante do látex da fração soro de H. speciosa por meio de ensaios in vitro. Os resultados obtidos mostraram que o látex da fração do soro de H. speciosa possui um potencial pouco irritante e não é citotóxico nem alergênico para células humanas. Além disso, foi identificado uma notável baixa quantidade de proteínas neste material em comparação ao látex de Hevea brasiliensis. Esse resultado poderia explicar o potencial não alergênico do látex da fração soro de H. speciosa, pois as proteínas presentes no látex são as principais responsáveis ​​pela alergia. Este biomaterial pode ser utilizado como fonte não alergênica para desenvolvimento de novos medicamentos.

The role of enzymes in the angiogenic activity of Hancornia speciosa latex

The Hancornia speciosa latex has shown angiogenic activity. Angiogenesis plays a major role in wound healing, and materials that stimulate this process could be used to develop drugs. This study aimed to explain the role of proteins in the H. speciosa serum fraction latex in angiogenesis. Hence, this material was treated with proteinase K and the proteins were inactivated. After protein inactivation, angiogenic activity was assessed with the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. The result showed that the proteins in the serum fraction are responsible for angiogenic activity. Then, the total protein content in the serum fraction and its enzymatic activity were investigated. The low protein content observed in the H. speciosa serum fraction latex suggests that this biomaterial could be used to develop new drugs with a hypoallergenic response. Despite the low protein content, there was a significant enzymatic activity of at least three enzymes in the serum fraction latex: ß-1,3 glucanase, ß-glucosidase, and proteases. These enzymes seem to influence the healing process, assisting debridement, extracellular matrix remodeling, and collagen deposition, and decreasing the chances of contamination by microorganisms. In conclusion, the enzymes in the H. speciosa serum latex are associated with the angiogenic activity of this biomaterial and may be used to assist the wound healing process.

Evaluation of tissue in repair with natural latex and / or hyaluronic acid in surgical bone defects

Abstract This study evaluated the bone repair in surgical defects of rats treated with hyaluronic acid (HA) associated or not with Hevea brasiliensis fraction protein (F-1). Bone defect were created in 15 albino Wistar rats divided into 3 groups (n=5): Control group (1) - blood clot; HA group (2) - 0.5% hyaluronic acid; HAF1 group (3) - 0.1% F-1 protein fraction dissolved in 0.5% hyaluronic acid. After 4 weeks, the animals were euthanized and the bone repair was evaluated through histomorphometric analysis, zymography and immunohistochemistry. The neoformed bone area did not show a significant difference (p = 0.757), but there was a tendency for bone trabeculation to increase in the groups HA and HAF1. For immunohistochemically analysis, there was a difference in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) labeling (p = 0.023), being higher in the groups HA and HAF1 than the control group. No significant difference in bone sialoprotein (BSP) (p = 0.681), osteocalcin (p = 0.954), however, significant difference in platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD-31) (p = 0.040), with HAF1 group being significantly lower than the control. For zymographic analysis, there was no significant difference for metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) (p = 0.068), but there was a tendency to increase MMP-2 in the HA group. Despite the influence on angiogenic factors and the apparent tendency for greater trabeculation in the HA and HAF1 groups, there was no significant difference in the area of ​​newly formed bone tissue in the analyzed period.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou o reparo ósseo em defeitos cirúrgicos de ratos tratados com ácido hialurônico (AH) associado ou não à fração proteica de Hevea brasiliensis (F-1). Foram criados defeitos ósseos em 15 ratos albinos Wistar divididos em 3 grupos (n = 5): Grupo controle (1) - coágulo sanguíneo; Grupo HA (2) - ácido hialurônico 0,5%; Grupo HAF1 (3) - fração proteica F-1 0,1% dissolvida em ácido hialurônico a 0,5%. Após 4 semanas, os animais foram submetidos à eutanásia e o reparo ósseo avaliado por meio de análise histomorfométrica, zimografia e imunohistoquímica. A área óssea neoformada não apresentou diferença significativa (p = 0,757), mas houve tendência de aumento da trabeculação óssea nos grupos HA e HAF1. Para a análise imunoistoquímica, houve diferença na marcação do fator de crescimento endotelial vascular (VEGF) (p = 0,023), sendo maior nos grupos HA e HAF1 do que no grupo controle. Nenhuma diferença significativa na sialoproteína óssea (BSP) (p = 0,681), osteocalcina (p = 0,954), no entanto, diferenças significativas foram encontradas para a molécula de adesão de células endoteliais plaquetárias-1 (CD-31) (p = 0,040), com o grupo HAF1 sendo significativamente inferior ao controle. Para a análise zimográfica, não houve diferença significativa para metaloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) (p = 0,068), mas houve tendência de aumento da MMP-2 no grupo HA. Apesar da influência sobre os fatores angiogênicos e da aparente tendência de maior trabeculação nos grupos HA e HAF1, não houve diferença significativa na área de tecido ósseo neoformado no período analisado.

Two Serum Free Light Chain Detection Systems in the Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the comparability of the Freelite, Binding Site, Beckman and N Latex FLC, Siemens in the detection of serum free light chain (sFLC) .@*METHODS@#Fifty newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients in Tianjin Institute of Blood Research from November 2019 to February 2020 were enrolled. The two systems (Freelite, Binding Site, Beckman and N Latex FLC, Siemens) were used to detect the sFLC of the samples. Outlier detection was performed by ESD method, methodological comparison and deviation assessment were performed by Passing-Bablok regression and Bland-Altman regression.@*RESULTS@#Both the systems could quantitatively analyze free kappa light chain serum samples and free lambda light chain samples. Freelite, Binding Site, Beckman and N Latex FLC, Siemens free light chain test showed FLC-κ：36.5 (6.5, 194), 40.5 (6.94, 288), FLC-λ: 30.1 (4.3, 170.5), 35.1 (2.28, 526), rFLC (FLC-κ/ FLC-λ) : 0.82 (0.05, 43.25), 1.03 (0.03, 32.04), dFLC (｜FLC-κ- FLC-λ｜) : -5.8 (-161.97, 183.7), 1.1 (-505.1, 279.01), which existed no outliers. There were systematic differences, and the deviation level was not within the clinically acceptable range.@*CONCLUSION@#Both the systems can meet the needs of clinical diagnosis and treatment, but there is a significant deviation between the two systems, the results are not comparable, and should be analyzed separately. In particular, the same system should be selected for monitoring the prognosis of MM.

Four new lanostane triterpenoids from latex of Euphorbia resinifera / 中国中药杂志

Four new lanostane triterpenoids, 3β-hydroxy-12α-methoxylanosta-7,9(11),24-triene(1), 3β-hydroxy-12α-methoxy-24-methylene-lanost-7,9(11)-dien(2), 3,7-dioxo-lanosta-8,24-diene(3), and 3,7-dioxo-24-methylene-lanost-8-en(4), were isolated from the latex of Euphorbia resinifera with a variety of chromatography methods. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic data and/or comparison with the data reported in previous research. Compounds 1, 2, and 4 showed moderate inhibition of LPS-induced NO production by RAW264.7, with IC_(50) of 30.4, 37.5, and 28.3 μmol·L~(-1), respectively.

Rubbing ethanol and time of use: critical factors compromising latex gloves structure / Desinfecção com etanol e tempo de uso: fatores críticos que comprometem a estrutura das luvas de látex

Abstract Introduction Personal protective equipment is mandatory to protect patients and professionals from diseases, especially in the dental environment. The risk of gloves micro-perforations is imminent when using sharp instruments or cleaning them up during lengthy clinical procedures. Objective This study evaluated the integrity of sterile and non-sterile gloves before clinical use and clarified whether friction with disinfectant solution modifies surface morphology and integrity. Material and method Samples of gloves from four different brands were divided into two groups: (1) Sterile surgical gloves (n=260) and (2) Non-sterile gloves (n=260). They were scissored and placed in Ostby's arch so that three solutions - distilled water, ethanol 70°, ethanol 96° - were rubbed with a cotton swab. After 30s, 5, 10, and 15 minutes of solution rubbing, samples were verified by a Scanning Electron Microscope. The pore sizes were measured by Image J software. Result Regardless of the brands, all gloves have been significantly affected by solutions and assessment periods. In general, remarkable changes were evident with ethanol 70° and 96°, and higher pore diameters were observed compared to distilled water. Conclusion Rubbing disinfectant solutions increases gloves' pores sizes, and time negatively influenced its quality.

Resumo Introdução Para proteger pacientes e profissionais de doenças, o uso de equipamentos de proteção individual é obrigatório, principalmente no ambiente odontológico. O risco de microperfurações das luvas é iminente ao usar instrumentos cortantes ou na tentativa de limpar as luvas durante longos procedimentos clínicos. Objetivo Este estudo avaliou a integridade das luvas cirúrgicas e de procedimento antes do uso clínico e esclareceu se o atrito com a solução desinfetante modifica a morfologia e integridade da superfície. Material e método Amostras de luvas de quatro marcas diferentes foram divididas em dois grupos: (1) Luvas cirúrgicas (n = 260) e (2) Luvas descartáveis não estéreis (n = 260). As luvas foram cortadas e colocadas em arco de Ostby, de modo que três soluções - água destilada, etanol 70 °, etanol 96 ° foram esfregadas com um cotonete. Após 30s, 5, 10 e 15 minutos de fricção das soluções, as amostras foram verificadas utilizando um microscópio eletrônico de varredura. Os tamanhos dos poros foram medidos pelo software Image J. Resultado Independentemente das marcas, todas as luvas foram significativamente afetadas por soluções e períodos de avaliação. Em geral, maiores alterações foram evidenciadas com o uso do etanol 70° e 96°, e maiores diâmetros dos poros foram observados quando comparados à água destilada. Conclusão Esfregar soluções desinfetantes aumenta o tamanho dos poros das luvas e o tempo influenciou negativamente sua qualidade.

Healing effects of natural latex serum 1% from Hevea brasiliensis in an experimental skin abrasion wound model

Abstract Background Dermabrasion is related with mechanical and surgical traumas on the skin; usually topical antiseptics and/or saline have been used for healing. Natural products for wound healing can also be used for abrasions, such as latex from Hevea brasiliensis. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro viability and migratory/proliferative effects of latex serum from H. brasiliensis and to compare with a commercially available standard antiseptic solution and saline in experimental dermabrasion on rats. Methods For in vitro evaluation, MTT and scratch assays were used. In vivo testing was performed in 72 rats submitted to dermabrasion, treated with saline, antiseptic, or latex serum. This study evaluated re-epithelialization, neutrophilic infiltration, and the quantification of crust and epidermis. Results Latex showed viability at 1% and 0.1% concentrations and migratory/proliferative activity at 0.01% concentrations. The re-epithelialization was highest in latex group on 7th day. The latex group displayed lower thickness of crusts and greater extent of epidermal layers. The latex and antiseptic groups showed increases of myeloperoxidase levels on the 2nd day and showed important reductions from the 7th day. Study limitations Acute superficial wound model in rats and non-use of gel-cream (medium) without latex. Conclusion In conclusion, non-toxic latex stimulated migration/proliferation of keratinocytes in vitro and significantly accelerated wound healing in animal excoriation models compared to chlorhexidine or saline.

Banana anaphylaxis in Thailand: case series

BACKGROUND: Banana fruit has been recognized as an important food allergen source. Nowadays banana hypersensitivity had been reported more frequently with various presentations from oral allergy syndrome to anaphylaxis.OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the pattern of banana hypersensitivity and the sensitivity of diagnostic test.METHODS: Six patients who experienced banana hypersensitivity were recruited from adult allergy clinic, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University between 2015–2018. Demographic data, pattern of banana allergy consisted of the onset of reaction, symptoms, severity, cross-reactivity to kiwi, avocado, latex including type and amount of banana were collected. Skin test, serum specific IgE to banana and open-label food challenge test had been applied.RESULTS: All patients experienced multiple episodes of banana anaphylaxis. Regarding the diagnostic investigation, prick-to-prick skin test had higher sensitivity (sensitivity, 100%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 54.07%–100%) than the commercial banana extract (sensitivity, 83.33%; 95% CI, 35.88%–99.58%) and serum specific IgE to banana (sensitivity, 50%; 95% CI, 11.81%–88.19%). The discordance between skin prick test using commercial banana extract and skin test was reported. The cross-reactivity between the species of banana, kiwi, the avocado was documented in all patients. Latex skin prick test and application test were applied with negative results. From the oral food challenge test, a case of banana anaphylaxis patient can tolerate heated banana.CONCLUSION: The various phenotypes of banana hypersensitivity were identified. The prick-to-prick test showed the highest sensitivity for diagnosis of banana allergy. However, component resolved diagnostics might be needed for conclusive diagnosis.

Association between fruit and vegetable allergies and pollen-food allergy syndrome in Japanese children: a multicenter cross-sectional case series

BACKGROUND: Recently, the prevalence of food allergies during childhood is increasing, with fruits being common allergens. However, data on allergens that cause fruit and vegetable allergies and pollen-food allergy syndrome (PFAS) in childhood are relatively few. This study aimed to examine the allergens in fruit and vegetable allergies in pediatric patients and to determine the association between fruit and vegetable allergies and PFAS.OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the current status of fruit and vegetable allergies in Japanese children.METHODS: This was a multicenter case series observational study. The participants included children aged <15 years who developed allergic symptoms after eating fruits and vegetables and subsequently received treatment in the Pediatric Department of 6 hospitals in the Osaka Prefecture in Japan during the study period from August 2016 to July 2017. Participants' information was obtained using a questionnaire, and data were obtained by performing several types of allergy tests using blood samples.RESULTS: A total of 97 children (median age, 9 years; 56 males) were included in the study. Apple was the most common allergen, followed by peach, kiwi, cantaloupe, and watermelon. A total of 74 participants (76%) exhibited allergic symptoms due to PFAS; moreover, pathogenesis-related protein-10 (PR-10) was the most common allergen superfamily. On the contrary, in the group where neither PR-10 nor profilin was sensitized, kiwi and banana were the most common allergens, and the age of onset was lower than that in the PFAS group. Specific antibody titer was significantly associated with Birch for Bet v1 and latex for Bet v2 (r = 0.99 and r = 0.89).CONCLUSION: When we examine patients with fruit and vegetable allergies, we should first consider PFAS even in childhood specifically for children greater than 4 years old.

Natural Latex Rubber Condom Inspection and Exploratory Research Analysis / 中国医疗器械杂志

According to the situation of 34 batches of natural rubber latex condoms tested by our center in 2018, the unqualified items in the product inspection items and the exploratory research results of D4 and D5 content in silicone oil lubricants are analyzed. We make recommendations on product technical requirements or standards to strengthen the quality supervision of products.

Latex proteins downregulate inflammation and restores blood-coagulation homeostasis in acute Salmonella infection

BACKGROUND Calotropis procera latex protein fraction (LP) was previously shown to protect animals from septic shock. Further investigations showed that LP modulate nitric oxide and cytokines levels. OBJECTIVES To evaluate whether the protective effects of LP, against lethal bacterial infection, is observed in its subfractions (LPPII and LPPIII). METHODS Subfractions (5 and 10 mg/kg) were tested by i.p. administration, 24 h before challenging with lethal injection (i.p.) of Salmonella Typhimurium. LPPIII (5 mg/kg) which showed higher survival rate was assayed to evaluate bacterial clearance, histopathology, leukocyte recruitment, plasma coagulation time, cytokines and NO levels. FINDINGS LPPIII protected 70% of animals of death. The animals given LPPIII exhibited reduced bacterial load in blood and peritoneal fluid after 24 h compared to the control. LPPIII promoted macrophage infiltration in spleen and liver. LPPIII restored the coagulation time of infected animals, increased IL-10 and reduced NO in blood. MAIN CONCLUSIONS LPPIII recruited macrophages to the target organs of bacterial infection. This addressed inflammatory stimulus seems to reduce bacterial colonisation in spleen and liver, down regulate bacterial spread and contribute to avoid septic shock.

Chemical constituents of Calotropis procera latex and ultrastructural effects on Haemonchus contortus / Constituintes químicos do látex de Calotropis procera e efeitos ultraestruturais em Haemonchus contortus

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the anthelmintic and ultrastructural effects of Calotropis procera latex on Haemonchus contortus. C. procera latex was twice centrifuged at 10,000×g and dialyzed to obtain a fraction rich in proteins, named LP (latex protein), and at 3,000 rpm to obtain a fraction rich in secondary metabolites, named LNP (latex non-protein). Specimens of H. contortus exposed to LNP, LP and PBS in the Adult Worm Motility Test (AWMT) were submitted to scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy to verify changes in their ultrastructure. Phytochemical tests in the LNP indicated the presence of phenols, steroids, alkaloids and cardenolides. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) characterized the presence of the compounds gallic acid and quercetin in the LNP. The protein content in the LP was 43.1 ± 1.1 mg/mL and 7.7 ± 0.3 mg/mL in LNP. In AWMT, LNP and LP inhibited the motility of 100% of the nematodes, with LNP being more effective than LP and ivermectin more effective than both (p <0.05). Cuticle changes were observed by SEM and TEM in nematodes treated with LP and LNP. Calotropis procera latex has anthelmintic effects against H. contortus, causing damage to its cuticle and other alterations in its ultrastructure.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos anti-helmínticos e ultraestruturais do látex de Calotropis procera sobre Haemonchus contortus. Látex de C. procera foi centrifugado duas vezes à a 10.000xg e dialisado para obter uma fração rica em proteínas, denominada proteínas do látex (LP). E centrifugado e centrifugado a 3.000 rpm, para obter uma fração rica em metabólitos secundários, denominada LNP (látex não proteico). Espécimes de H. contortus expostos à LNP, LP e PBS no Teste de Motilidade dos Nematoides Adultos (TMNA) foram submetidos a microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) e de transmissão (MET), para verificar alterações em sua ultraestrutura. Testes fitoquímicos em LNP indicaram a presença de fenóis, esteroides, alcaloides e cardenolídeos. A presença dos compostos ácido gálico e quercetina em LNP foi caracterizada por Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Eficiência (CLAE). O conteúdo de proteínas em LP foi de 43,1 ± 1,1 mg/mL e de 7,7 ± 0,3 mg/mL em LNP. No TMNA, LNP e LP inibiram a motilidade de 100% dos nematoides, sendo LNP mais eficaz que LP, e a ivermectina mais eficaz que ambos (p <0,05). Alterações na cutícula de nematoides tratados com LP e LNP foram observadas por MEV e MET. O látex de C. procera apresenta efeito anti-helmíntico sobre H. contortus, causando danos à sua cutícula e outras alterações em sua ultraestrutura.

Cicatrização de feridas cutâneas: uso da membrana de látex natural isolada e associada à fibrina rica em plaquetas em ratos Wistar / Healing of skin wounds: use of natural latex membrane isolated and associated with platelet-rich fibrin in Wistar rats

Devido à alta incidência de feridas e lesões de pele, a busca científica tem se focado no desenvolvimento de coberturas e substitutos epidérmicos alternativos às técnicas de enxertia que possuam a mesma função de evitar a exposição de feridas às variações externas. O látex natural derivado da Hevea brasiliensis estimula o processo de cicatrização, assim como a fibrina rica em plaquetas (PRF). A associação desses dois compostos tem como finalidade oferecer um suporte estrutural e estímulo à migração epitelial, associado à proteção e menor desidratação do leito cicatricial. No presente estudo, investigamos a resposta de reparo cicatricial em feridas agudas de espessura total em ratos Wistar, submetidos a três diferentes tratamentos: membrana de látex associada à PRF (ML+PRF), apenas a membrana de látex (ML) e controle com solução de cloreto de sódio a 0,9% estéril em. A avaliação macroscópica foi realizada por mensuração, posteriormente a amostra tecidual foi coletada e submetida à coloração com Hematoxilina & Eosina e Picrosirius Red para análise histológica. Para análise estatística, as variáveis quantitativas foram determinadas por ANOVA (pós-teste de Tukey) e as variáveis semiquantitativas determinadas pelo teste de Friedman (pósteste de Dunn), sendo considerados significantes quando p<0,05. Como resultados houve diminuição significativa no diâmetro da ferida e melhor reepitelização em relação aos controles , assim como houve estímulo à deposição de colágeno tipo I, que gera resistência tecidual. Não foram observadas complicações quanto ao uso dessa associação, portanto auxilia no reparo da pele em tratamento de feridas agudas de espessura total em ratos Wistar hígidos(AU)

Due to the high incidence of wounds and skin lesions, scientific research has focused on the development of alternative epidermal coverings and substitutes to grafting techniques that have the same function of preventing the exposure of wounds to external variations. The natural latex derived from Hevea brasiliensis stimulates the healing process, as well as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). The association of these two compounds aims to provide structural support and stimulate epithelial migration, associated with protection and less dehydration of the healing bed. In the present study, we investigated the healing repair response in acute full-thickness wounds in Wistar rats, submitted to three different treatments: latex membrane associated with PRF (ML + PRF), only the latex membrane (ML), and control with a solution of 0.9% sodium chloride sterile. The macroscopic and microscopic evaluations were performed by measurement, followed by tissue sample collection and staining with Hematoxylin & Eosin and Picrosirius Red for histological analysis. For statistical analysis, quantitative variables were determined by ANOVA (Tukey's post-test) and semi-quantitative variables were determined by Friedman's test (Dunn's post-test), being considered significant when p<0.05. As a result, there was a significant decrease in the wound diameter and better re-epithelialization concerning the controls, as well as the deposition of type I collagen, which generates tissue resistance. No complications were observed regarding the use of this association. Therefore, it assists in skin repair in the treatment of acute full-thickness wounds in healthy Wistar rats(AU)

Oral Administrations of Hancornia speciosa Gomes Latex Do Not Increase Bone Neoformation / Administrações Orais do Látex da Hancornia speciosa Gomes não aumentam a neoformação óssea

Abstract Objective The present work aimed to evaluate the systemic effect of H. speciosa latex on bone neoformation. Methods For this, the latex was collected and diluted to 3% and 50%. A total of 28 Wistar rats were submitted to surgery to create a 5 mm diameter defect in the parietal bone. This experiment was conducted in 2 different periods: 1 and 2. For each period, the rats were divided into 3 groups: Control Group, Latex3 Group, and Latex50 Group, which received, respectively, daily administrations of 0.5 mL of distilled water, latex to 3% and latex to 50% by gavage, orally. The rats of periods 1 and 2 were euthanized, respectively, 15 and 30 days after the surgery, and the calvaria was collected. The results were analyzed using the ANOVA and Tukey tests; the significance level was 0.05. Results We show that, in each analyzed period, the experimental groups had the same amount of newly formed bone in the calvaria defect. Conclusion We conclude that daily and oral administrations of H. speciosa latex to 3% and to 50% over a period of 15 and 30 days does not contribute to the increase of the area of the newly formed bone in the calvaria defect.

Resumo Objetivo Este trabalho objetivou avaliar o efeito sistêmico do látex de H. speciosas obre a neoformação óssea. Métodos Para isso, o látex foi coletado e diluído a 3% e a 50%. Um total de 28 ratos Wistar foi submetido a cirurgia para a criação de um defeito de 5 mm de diâmetro no osso parietal. Esse experimento foi conduzido em dois períodos distintos: 1 e 2. Para cada período, os ratos foram divididos em 3 grupos: Grupo Controle, Grupo Látex3 e Grupo Látex50 que receberam, respectivamente, administrações diárias de 0,5 mL de água destilada, látex a 3% e látex a 50% por gavagem, via oral. Os ratos dos períodos 1 e 2 foram eutanasiados, respectivamente, 15 e 30 dias após a cirurgia e a calvária foi coletada. Os resultados foram analisados utilizando os testes ANOVA e Tukey; o nível de significância estabelecido foi 0,05. Resultados Mostramos que, em cada período analisado, os grupos experimentais tiveram a mesma quantidade de osso neoformado no defeito da calvária. Conclusão Portanto, concluímos que administrações diárias e orais do látex de H. speciosa a 3% e a 50% durante um período de 15 e 30 dias não contribui para o aumento da área do osso neoformado no defeito da calvária.

Role of Synadenium grantii latex proteases in nematicidal activity on Meloidogyne incognita and Panagrellus redivivus / Papel das proteases do látex de Synadenium grantii na atividade nematicida sobre Meloidogyne incognita e Panagrellus redivivus

Abstract Synadenium grantii is a Euphorbiaceae plant commonly found in Brazil, known as Janaúba or Leitosinha, whose latex is traditionally used for several purposes. However, it is not known whether the nematicidal action of this plant latex occurs due to the action of proteases. The present work aims to evaluate the nematicidal activity of proteases from Synadenium grantii latex on Meloidogyne incognita and Panagrellus redivivus. S. grantii latex used in the present study was collected from specimens found in Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The drained latex was collected in Eppendorf microtubes and immediately stored on ice at 4 °C. After this extraction, the latex was frozen (-20 °C) during 2 hours, thawed at room temperature (25 °C) and centrifuged at 10,000 g at 4 °C for 30 minutes to remove larger particles and concentrate the proteases. After the centrifugation, assays of enzymatic activity were performed in order to know in which of the phases the enzymes were found. S. grantii latex presented protease, but no chitinase activity. The results show that there was a significant difference (p <0.01) between the treated and control groups, with 100% mortality of Meloidogyne incognita and 72% average mortality of Panagrellus redivivus. In addition, it was demonstrated that the nematicidal action occurred due to the action of the proteases, since the control was only differentiated from the treatment by the presence of the enzymes with biological activity.

Resumo Synadenium grantii é uma planta Euphorbiaceae comumente encontrada no Brasil, conhecida como Janaúba ou Leitosinha, e tem seu látex usado tradicionalmente para diferentes propósitos. Entretanto, não se conhece se a atividade nematicida da planta ocorre devido à ação de proteases. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a atividade nematicida das proteases do látex de Synadenium grantii sobre Meloidogyne incognita e Panagrellus redivivus. O látex de S. grantii utilizado no presente trabalho foi coletado a partir de espécimes encontradas na Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. O látex foi coletado em microtubos Eppendorf e imediatamente armazenado em gelo a 4 °C. Após esta extração, o látex foi congelado (-20 °C) durante 2 horas, descongelado à temperatura ambiente (25 °C) e centrifugado a 10000 g a 4 °C durante 30 minutos para a remoção de partículas e concentração das proteases. Após a centrifugação, foram realizados ensaios de atividade enzimática para saber em qual das fases as enzimas foram encontradas. O látex de S. grantii apresentou atividade de protease, mas nenhuma atividade de quitinase. Os resultados mostram que houve diferença significativa (p <0,01) entre os grupos tratados e controle, com 100% de mortalidade de Meloidogyne incognita e 72% de mortalidade média de Panagrellus redivivus. Além disso, foi demonstrado que a ação nematicida ocorreu devido à ação das proteases, uma vez que o grupo controle só foi diferenciado do tratamento pela presença das enzimas com atividade biológica.

Effect of the manual manipulation of composite resin with latex gloves / Efecto de la manipulación manual de resina compuesta con guantes de látex

Purpose: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the influence of the manual manipulation of two composite resins: Filtek™ Z350XT (3M ESPE) and Herculite Précis® (Kerr), with latex gloves contaminated with powder, human saliva and alcohol, on the microhardness values. Material and Methods: Manual manipulation was evaluated using latex gloves with powder, latex gloves without powder, latex gloves without powder with saliva, latex gloves without powder with alcohol, and without hand manipulation or contaminants (control). Each resin was manually manipulated for 10 seconds and photoactivated for 20 seconds with a light intensity of 1000mW/cm2 using a VALO ­Ultradent LED light­ cured unit, and then each sample was evaluated on the microhardness Vickers tester Leitz (Wetzlar). The collected data were analyzed using Kruskal ­Wallis and Mann ­ Whitney post-test (p<0.05). Results. Microhardness values showed a significant difference between the evaluated and control groups, showing lower microhardness values in the group of latex glove with powder for Filtek™ Z350XT and the group of latex glove without powder with saliva for Herculite Précis®. Conclusion. The manual manipulation of composite resins decreases their surface microhardness.

Propósito: Este estudio in vitrotuvo como objetivo evaluar la influencia de la manipulación manual de dos resinas compuestas: Filtek ™ Z350XT (3M ESPE) y Herculite Précis® (Kerr), con guantes de látex contaminados con polvo, saliva humana y alcohol, sobre los valores de microdureza. Material y Métodos: La manipulación manual se evaluó utilizando guantes de látex con polvo, guantes de látex sin polvo, guantes de látex sin polvo con saliva, guantes de látex sin polvo con alcohol, y sin manipulación manual o contaminantes (control). Cada resina fue manipulada manualmente durante 10 segundos y fotoactivada durante 20 segundos con unaintensidad de luz de 1000mW/cm2 usando una unidad de fotocuración LED VALO - Ultradent, y luego cada muestra fue evaluada en el tester de microdureza Vickers Leitz (Wetzlar). Los datos recopilados se analizaron utilizando Kruska ­Wallis y post-test Mann­ Whitney (p<0.05). Resultados: Se observó una diferencia significativa en los valores de microdureza entre los grupos evaluados y el grupo control, con valores más bajos de microdureza en el grupo de guantes de látex con polvo para Filtek™ Z350XT y el grupo de guantes de látex sin polvo con saliva para Herculite Précis®. Conclusión. La manipulación manual de resinas compuestas disminuye su microdureza superficial.

In Vivo Vibration Measurement of Middle Ear Structure Using Doppler Optical Coherence Tomography: Preliminary Study

OBJECTIVES: Doppler optical coherence tomography (DOCT) is useful for both, the spatially resolved measurement of the tympanic membrane (TM) oscillation and high-resolution imaging. We demonstrated a new technique capable of providing real-time two-dimensional Doppler OCT image of rapidly oscillatory latex mini-drum and in vivo rat TM and ossicles. METHODS: Using DOCT system, the oscillation of sample was measured at frequency range of 1–4 kHz at an output of 15 W. After the sensitivity of the DOCT system was verified using a latex mini-drum consisting of a 100 μm-thick latex membrane, changes in displacement of the umbo and contacted area between TM and malleus in normal and pathologic conditions. RESULTS: The oscillation cycles of the mini-drum for stimulus frequencies were 1.006 kHz for 1 kHz, 2.012 kHz for 2kHz, and 3.912 kHz for 4 kHz, which means that the oscillation cycle of the mini-drum become short in proportional to the frequency of stimuli. The oscillation cycles of umbo area and the junction area in normal TM for frequencies of the stimuli showed similar integer ratio with the data of latex mini-drum for stimuli less than 4 kHz. In the case of middle ear effusion condition, the Doppler signal showed a tendency of attenuation in all frequencies, which was prominent at 1 kHz and 2 kHz. CONCLUSION: The TM vibration under sound stimulation with frequencies from 1 kHz to 4 kHz in normal and pathologic conditions was demonstrated using signal demodulation method in in vivo condition. The OCT technology could be helpful for functional and structural assessment as an optional modality.

Analyses of the Proficiency Testing Program and the Performance of Qualitative Reagents for Rheumatoid Factor / 임상검사와정도관리

BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid factor (RF) is used as one of the diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate qualitative RF reagents used in clinical laboratories in Korea, and to provide basic data that can be used as a reference to improve the quality of RF testing. METHODS: We reviewed the proficiency testing results for RF from the Korean Association of External Quality Assessment Service (KEQAS) and College of American Pathologists. Moreover, we evaluated five commercially available RF qualitative reagents, including LabSlide RF (IVD Lab Co., Korea), ASAN RA Latex Reagents (Asan Pharmaceuticals Co., Korea), RaPET RF (Stanbio Laboratory, USA), RF Latex Test (Pulse Scientific Inc., Canada), and RF-100 (Teco Diagnostics, USA). Commercially available quality control materials, calibrators, and pooled sera were used in this study. The consistency of qualitative reagents and Kappa statistics were calculated based on the quantitative values of the quality control materials and the mixed sera. RESULTS: Up to 51.5% of high concentration samples were reported as negative in KEQAS. RF qualitative reagent test results were not consistent among reagent types. The consistency of the qualitative and quantitative test results was between 51% and 100%, and the kappa statistics varied depending on the reagent manufacturer. CONCLUSIONS: Measurement of RF qualitative reagents used in domestic clinical laboratories was not consistent with the quantitative values, and hence it is necessary to improve the consistency and verify the adequacy of the cut-off value.

The novel latex agglutination turbidimetric immunoassay system for simultaneous measurements of calprotectin and hemoglobin in feces

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Fecal calprotectin (Fcal) as well as the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) are useful biomarkers for detecting activity and mucosal healing in inflammatory bowel diseases. Here, we report the performance of simultaneous measurements of Fcal and FIT for ulcerative colitis (UC) patients using the newly-developed latex agglutination turbidimetric immunoassay (LATIA) system. METHODS: Fcal and hemoglobin were measured by the LATIA system in 152 UC patients who underwent colonoscopy. Fcal was also quantified with a conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Fecal markers were evaluated in conjunction with the mucosal status of UC, which was assessed via the Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES) classification. RESULTS: The LATIA system could quantify calprotectin and hemoglobin simultaneously with the same fecal samples within 10 minutes. The values of the Fcal-LATIA closely correlated with those of the Fcal-ELISA (Spearman rank correlation coefficient, r=0.84; P<0.0001). The values of Fcal for each assay and the FIT all significantly correlated with the MESs (Spearman rank correlation coefficient, Fcal-LATIA: r=0.58, Fcal-ELISA: r=0.55, and FIT: r=0.72). The mucosal healing predictability (determined by an MES of 0 alone) of the Fcal-LATIA, Fcal-ELISA, and FIT-LATIA with the cutoffs determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was 0.79, 0.78, and 0.92 for sensitivity, respectively, and 0.78, 0.69, and 0.73 for specificity, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The performance of the novel Fcal-LATIA was equivalent to that of the conventional Fcal assay. Simultaneous measurements with FITs would promote the clinical relevance of fecal biomarkers in UC.

Comparison of Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, and Comfort between Buckwheat and Latex Pillows

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate differences in neck pain, shoulder pain, and comfort between buckwheat and latex pillows in elderly sanatorium residents. METHODS: The crossover experimental study was performed with 30 elderly patients in a convalescent hospital for seniors. The buckwheat and latex pillows were used for 2 weeks, the 7 day was assigned as the washout between each one week intervention, respectively. Pre- and posttest visual analog scale (VAS) scores for neck and shoulder pains and the neck disability index (NDI) were investigated. Data were analyzed using paired-samples t test, and their correlations were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 21.0 (IBM Corp., New York, NY, USA). RESULTS: After the 2-week intervention, results showed that the use of buckwheat pillows decreased the VAS scores for neck and shoulder pains and NDI. Further, the use of latex pillows decreased the VAS score for neck pain and NDI, but the VAS score for shoulder pain showed no statistically significant differences (t=1.887, P=0.069). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, using latex and buckwheat pillows is the best option for reducing neck pain. Between the buckwheat and latex pillows, the buckwheat pillow is a better option for decreasing neck and shoulder pains.