Mathematical-Physical description of the oxygen-inhibited layer (OIL) in nanofilled dental polymers / Descripción físico-matemática de la capa inhibida por oxígeno en polímeros dentales nano rellenados

Abstract This research evaluates the presence of the oxygen-inhibited layer (OIL) on the top surface of a photopolymerized dental composite resin protected with a glycerin layer. This evaluation was conducted using physical and mathematical methods. Polymerized discs were fabricated to evaluate Vickers microhardness (VHN), and pre-and post-polymerized samples were used for the calculation of C-O/C-H ratios through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) (n=10), using two types of glycerin, one for medical use (MG) and another for dental use (DG). Surface hardness decreased from MG to DG to CO, and the increase in C-O/C-H ratios decreased in the same order (p<0.05). Samples protected with medical and dental glycerin layers are harder and exhibit lower C-O/C-H bond ratios than the control group.

Resumen La presente investigación evalúa la presencia de la capa inhibida por oxígeno OIL en la última superficie fotocurada de una resina compuesta de uso odontológica que fue protegida con una capa de glicerina. Esta evaluación se hizo a partir de métodos físicos y matemáticos. Se fabricaron discos polimerizados para evaluar la microdureza Vickers (VHN) y pre y post polimerizados para el cálculo de tasas C-O/C-H por medio de Espectroscopía Infrarroja Transformada de Fourier (FTIR) (n=10) usando dos tipos de glicerina, una de uso médico (MG) y otra de uso dental (DG). La dureza superficial disminuyó de MG a DG a CO y el aumento de tasas C-O/C-H disminuyó en ese mismo orden (p<0,05). Las muestras protegidas con capas de glicerina médica y odontológica son más duras y presentan menos cantidad tasas de enlaces C-O/C-H que el grupo control.

Estudio de biocompatibilidad de matrices poliméricas combinadas, responsivas al pH, con aplicación en Ingeniería de Tejido Óseo / Biocompatibility study of combined pH-responsive polymeric matrices with application in Bone Tissue Engineering

El presente trabajo muestra la obtención de un material a partir de un polímero sintético (TerP) y otro natural, mediante entrecruzamiento físico y su caracterización fisicoquímica y biológica, con el fin de emplearlos para regeneración de tejido óseo. Las membranas fueron obtenidas por la técnica de evaporación del solvente y caracterizadas por espectroscopia FTIR, ensayos de hinchamiento, medidas de ángulo de contacto y microscopia electrónica de barrido (SEM). Se encontró que la compatibilidad entre los polímeros que la constituyen es estable a pH fisiológico y que, al incorporar mayor cantidad del TerP a la matriz, esta se vuelve más hidrofóbica y porosa. Además, teniendo en cuenta la aplicación prevista para dichos materiales, se realizaron estudios de biocompatibilidad y citotoxicidad con células progenitoras de médula ósea (CPMO) y células RAW264.7, respectivamente. Se evaluó la proliferación celular, la producción y liberación de óxido nítrico (NO) al medio de cultivo durante 24 y 48 horas y la expresión de citoquinas proinflamatorias IL-1ß y TNF-α de las células crecidas sobre los biomateriales variando la cantidad del polímero sintético. Se encontró mayor proliferación celular y menor producción de NO sobre las matrices que contienen menos proporción del TerP, además de poseer una mejor biocompatibilidad. Los resultados de este estudio muestran que el terpolímero obtenido y su combinación con un polímero natural es una estrategia muy interesante para obtener un biomaterial con posibles aplicaciones en medicina regenerativa y que podría extenderse a otros sistemas estructuralmente relacionados. (AU)

In the present work, the preparation of a biomaterial from a synthetic terpolymer (TerP) and a natural polymer, physically crosslinked, is shown. In order to evaluate the new material for bone tissue regeneration, physicochemical and biological characterizations were performed. The membranes were obtained by solvent casting and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, swelling tests, contact angle measurements, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the compatibility between the polymers is stable at physiological pH and the incorporation of a higher amount of TerP into the matrix increases hydrophobicity and porosity.Furthermore, considering the intended application of these materials, studies of biocompatibility and cytotoxicity were conducted with Bone Marrow Progenitor Cells (BMPCs) and RAW264.7 cells, respectively. Cell proliferation, NO production and release into the culture medium for 24 and 48 hours, and proinflammatory cytokine expression of IL-1ß and TNF-α from cells grown on the biomaterials while varying the amount of the synthetic polymer were evaluated. Greater cell proliferation and lower NO production were found on matrices containing a lower proportion of TerP, in addition to better biocompatibility. The results of this study demonstrate that the obtained terpolymer and its combination with a natural polymer is a highly interesting strategy for biomaterial preparation with potential applications in regenerative medicine. This approach could be extended to other structurally related systems. (AU)

Physiological regulation of salicylic acid on Helianthus tubeuosus upon copper stress and root FTIR analysis / 生物工程学报

Phytoremediation plays an important role in the treatment of heavy metal pollution in soil. In order to elucidate the mechanism of salicylic acid (SA) on copper absorption, seedlings from Xuzhou (with strong Cu-tolerance) and Weifang Helianthus tuberosus cultivars (with weak Cu-tolerance) were selected for pot culture experiments. 1 mmol/L SA was sprayed upon 300 mg/kg soil copper stress, and the photosynthesis, leaf antioxidant system, several essential mineral nutrients and the changes of root upon copper stress were analyzed to explore the mechanism of copper resistance. The results showed that Pn, Tr, Gs and Ci upon copper stress decreased significantly compared to the control group. Meanwhile, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoid decreased with significant increase in initial fluorescence (F0), maximum photochemical quantum yield of PSⅡ (Fv/Fm), electron transfer rate (ETR) and photochemical quenching coefficient (qP) content all decreased. The ascorbic acid (AsA) content was decreased, the glutathione (GSH) value was increased, the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity in the leaves were decreased, and the peroxidase (POD) activity was significantly increased. SA increased the Cu content in the ground and root system, and weakened the nutrient uptake capacity of K, Ca, Mg, and Zn in the root stem and leaves. Spray of exogenous SA can maintain the opening of leaf stomata, improve the adverse effect of copper on photosynthetic pigment and PSⅡ reaction center. Mediating the SOD and APX activity started the AsA-GSH cycle process, effectively regulated the antioxidant enzyme system in chrysanthemum taro, significantly reduced the copper content of all parts of the plant, and improved the ion exchange capacity in the body. External SA increased the content of the negative electric group on the root by changing the proportion of components in the root, promoted the absorption of mineral nutrient elements and the accumulation of osmoregulatory substances, strengthened the fixation effect of the root on metal copper, and avoided its massive accumulation in the H. tuberosus body, so as to alleviate the inhibitory effect of copper on plant growth. The study revealed the physiological regulation of SA upon copper stress, and provided a theoretical basis for planting H. tuberosus to repair soil copper pollution.

Quality evaluation methods of Poria based on yield and content of alkali extracted polysaccharide / 中国中药杂志

To improve the quality control methods of Poria and develop and utilize its resources fully, alkaline extraction was used in this study to determine the yield and content of alkali-soluble polysaccharides of Poria. The alkali-soluble extracts of Poria were obtained according to the optimum extraction conditions on the basis of single-factor test, and 30 batches of samples were determined. The structure and chemical composition of the alkali-soluble extracts was characterized by high-performance gel permeation chromatography(HPGPC), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry(FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance(NMR) spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC) with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone(PMP-HPLC). The results showed that the content of the alkali-soluble extracts was in the range of 46.98%-73.86%. The main component was β-(1→3)-glucan, and its molecular mass was about 1.093×10~5. Further, the content of alkali-soluble polysaccharides of Poria was measured by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and HPLC coupled with the evaporative light scattering detector(HPLC-ELSD), and 30 batches of samples were measured. The results indicated that the content of alkali-soluble polysaccharides determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry was in the range of 73.70%-92.57%, and the content of samples from Hubei province was slightly higher than that from Yunnan province, Anhui province and Hunan province. The content of alkali-soluble polysaccharides determined by HPLC-ELSD was in the range of 51.42%-76.69%, and the samples from Hunan province had slightly higher content than that from the other three provinces. The content determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry was higher than that by HPLC-ELSD. However, the content determined by HPLC-ELSD was close to that of alkali-soluble extract, which could accurately characterize the content of alkali-soluble polysaccharides in Poria, and the method was simple and repeatable. Therefore, it is recommended that the quantitative analysis method for alkali-soluble extract and alkali-soluble polysaccharides by HPLC-ELSD be used in the quality standards of Poria in Chinese Pharmacopeia.

Polysaccharide isolated from wax apple suppresses ethyl carbamate-induced oxidative damage in human hepatocytes / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Wax apple (Syzygium samarangense) has received growing research interest for its high nutritional and medicinal value due to its constituents such as polysaccharide, organic acids, flavonoids, minerals, and other substances. In this study, wax apple polysaccharide (WAP) was isolated from this plant and its protective effect against ethyl carbamate (EC)‍-induced oxidative damage was evaluated in human hepatocytes (L02 cells). Firstly, a series of analyses such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), high-performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were conducted to identify the structure of WAP. Thereafter, in vitro cell experiments were performed to verify the protective effects of WAP against EC-induced cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and oxidative damage in L02 cells. Our results revealed that WAP is composed of mannose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, arabinose, and fucose in a molar ratio of 2.20:‍3.94:‍4.45:‍8.56:‍8.86:‍30.82:‍39.78:‍1.48. Using a combination of methylation and NMR spectroscopic analysis, the primary structure of WAP was identified as Araf-(1→, Glcp-(1→, →2)‍-Araf-(1→, →3)‍-Galp-(1→, →3)‍-Araf-‍(1→, and →6)‍-Galp-‍(1→. Cell experiments indicated that WAP exhibited significant protective effects on EC-treated L02 cells via suppressing cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and O2•- formation, as well as improving mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and glutathione (GSH). In a nutshell, WAP has the potential as an important therapeutic agent or supplement for hepatic oxidative damage. Meanwhile, further studies are needed to prove the above effects in vivo at the biological and clinical levels.

Forensic Pathological Diagnosis of Acute and Old Myocardial Infarction Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy / 法医学杂志

OBJECTIVES@#Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze myocardial infarction tissues at different stages of pathological change to achieve the forensic pathology diagnosis of acute and old myocardial infarction.@*METHODS@#FTIR spectra data of early ischemic myocardium, necrotic myocardium, and myocardial fibrous tissue in the left ventricular anterior wall of the sudden death group of atherosclerotic heart disease and the myocardium of the normal control group were collected using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining as a reference, and the data were analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis.@*RESULTS@#The mean normalized spectra of control myocardium, early ischemic myocardium and necrotic myocardium were relatively similar, but the mean second derivative spectra were significantly different. The peak intensity of secondary structure of proteins in early ischemic myocardium was significantly higher than in other types of myocardium, and the peak intensity of the α-helix in necrotic myocardium was the lowest. The peaks of amide Ⅰ and amide Ⅱ in the mean normalized spectra of myocardial fibrous tissue significantly shifted towards higher wave numbers, the peak intensities of amide Ⅱ and amide Ⅲ were higher than those of other types of myocardium, and the peak intensities at 1 338, 1 284, 1 238 and 1 204 cm-1 in the mean second derivative spectra were significantly enhanced. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) showed that FTIR could distinguish different types of myocardium.@*CONCLUSIONS@#FTIR technique has the potential to diagnose acute and old myocardial infarction, and provides a new basis for the analysis of the causes of sudden cardiac death.

Structural characterization of PCP-Ⅰ from Poria as vaccine adjuvant and its hydrolytic oligosaccharide / 中国中药杂志

Poria is an important medical herb in clinic. The authors isolated a polysaccharide(PCP-Ⅰ) from Poria in previous studies, which is composed of galactose, mannose, fucose and glucose. PCP-Ⅰ exhibited significant adjuvant effects on H1N1 influenza vaccine, hepatitis B surface antigen and anthrax protective antigen, and its adjuvant activity was stronger than aluminium adjuvant. However, little is known about the chemical structure of PCP-Ⅰ at present. In this study, weak acid hydrolysis was used to obtain the backbone oligosaccharide of PCP-Ⅰ. Then periodate oxidation, Smith degradation, methylation analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance(NMR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS) were performed to investigate the chemical structural features of PCP-Ⅰ and its hydrolytic oligosaccharide(PCP-Ⅰ-hy-1). These results suggested that the backbone of PCP-Ⅰ was composed of galactose with α anomeric carbon and β anomeric carbon. The linking residues of galactan are(1→),(l→6) and(1→2,6).

Suckermouth catfish bone extract as bone graft raw material for bone-healing promotes bone growth in bone loss / Extrato de osso de bagre como material de reparo promove o crescimento ósseo em perda óssea

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the properties of suckermouth catfish bone extract, which allows it to be adopted as a raw material for bone graft following its graft in an artificial defect of a rat model. Material and Methods: Hydroxyapatite (HA) from suckermouth catfish bone extract was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and its toxicity was evaluated by Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT). This material was grafted on artificial defects in rats' femoral bones, which were observed immunologically by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) after one week and four weeks, and radiographically in the second week, and histologically in the second and fourth weeks. Results: FTIR shows that this material consists of phosphate, hydroxyl, and carbonate groups, while the BSLT results show that this material is not toxic. Observations by ELISA showed an increase in the expression of Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in defects with HA in the fourth week. Radiographically the defect did not show closure in the second week. In contrast, histological analysis showed a better bone healing process in the defect, which was applied with the HA of the suckermouth catfish bone. Conclusion: The HA extracted from the suckermouth catfish bone has beneficial properties as an alternative to bone graft raw material and, more investigated needed to support this biomaterial to be used in the treatment of bone loss (AU)

Objetivo: Avaliar as propriedades do extrato de osso de bagre, que permitem sua adoção como material bruto para enxerto ósseo, em um defeito ósseo artificial em ratos. Material e Métodos: A hidroxiapatita (HA) do extrato de osso de bagre foi caracterizada usando espectroscopia infravermelha por transformada de Fourier (FTIR), e sua toxicidade foi avaliada pelo Teste de Letalidade do Camarão de Sal (BSLT). Esse material foi enxertado em defeitos artificiais nos ossos femorais de ratos. Análise imunológica por meio do ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA) foi realizada uma e quatro semanas após a colocação dos enxertos. Análises radiográficas foram feitas na segunda semana e histológica na segunda e quarta semanas. Resultados: A FTIR mostrou que esse material é composto por grupos de fosfato, hidroxila e carbonato, enquanto os resultados do BSLT mostraram que esse material não é tóxico. As observações pelo ELISA mostraram um aumento na expressão do fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-α) nos defeitos com HA na quarta semana. Radiograficamente, o defeito não apresentou fechamento na segunda semana. Em contraste, a análise histológica mostrou um melhor processo de cicatrização óssea no defeito que foi aplicado com a HA do osso de bagre. Conclusão: A HA extraída do osso de bagre possui propriedades benéficas como alternativa ao material bruto para enxerto ósseo, sendo necessárias mais investigações para apoiar esse biomaterial a ser usado no tratamento da perda óssea.(AU)

Gastroprotective potential and mechanisms of action of Hedera nepalensis

Abstract Hedera nepalensis (H. nepalensis) , belonging to the family Araliaceae, is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat stomach problems. The current study investigated the gastroprotective potential and the mechanism of action of H. nepalensis in diclofenac-and ethanol-induced ulcer models. Anti-oxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibitory prospects of H. nepalensis were checked out by free radical scavenging assay and UV spectrophotometer respectively. Effect of H. nepalensis on the pH, gastric total acidity of gastric juice and protective effects of H. nepalensis against ulcer models have been examined. Histopathological studies have been carried out. The aqueous methanol extract of H. nepalensis (100 µg/mL) showed anti-oxidant (83.55%) and lipid peroxidation inhibitory (70.88%) potential at 1000 µg/mL; the extract had no buffer potential. The extract (400 mg/kg) significantly (81.12% and 63.46%) showed gastroprotective effect in diclofenac and ethanol-induced rat ulcer models respectively. Histopathological studies confirmed the biochemical findings. FTIR analysis showed the presence of carboxylic acid, alkanes, conjugated alkanes, aldehydes and alkyl-aryl ethers. Gallic acid, M-coumaric acid and quercetin were found by HPLC analysis. H. nepalensis exhibited significant protection against diclofenac and ethanol induced gastric damage by anti-oxidant and lipid peroxidation suppression effects suggesting potential broad utility in treatment of diseases characterized with gastric damage.

Development of inclusion complex based on cyclodextrin and oxazolidine derivative

Abstract Oxazolidine derivatives (OxD) have been described as third-line antibiotics and antitumoral agents. The inclusion complexes based on cyclodextrin could improve the solubility and bioavailability of these compounds. A novel synthetic OxD was used, and its inclusion complexes were based on 2-hydroxy-beta-cyclodextrin (2-HPßCD). We conducted an in silico study to evaluate the interaction capacity between OxD and 2-HPßCD. Characterization studies were performed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal analyses. A kinetic study of the OxD was performed, including a cytotoxicity assay using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The maximum increment of solubility was obtained at 70 mM OxD using 400 mM 2-HPßCD. SEM analyses and FTIR spectra indicated the formation of inclusion complexes. 1H-NMR presented chemical shifts that indicated 1:1 stoichiometry. Different thermal behaviors were obtained. The pharmacokinetic profile showed a short release time. Pure OxD and its inclusion complex did not exhibit cytotoxicity in PBMCs. In silico studies provided a foremost insight into the interactions between OxD and 2-HPßCD, including a higher solubility in water and an average releasing profile without toxicity in normal cells

Spectral analysis, in vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial studies of bioactive principles from the leaves of Conocarpus lancifolius, a common tree of Jazan, Saudi Arabia / Análise espectral, citotoxicidade in vitro e estudos antibacterianos de princípios bioativos das folhas de Conocarpus lancifolius, uma árvore comum de Jazan, Arábia Saudita

Abstract The objective of the present study was to analyse the bioactive compounds of the leaves of Conocarpus lancifolius (C. lancifolius). The GC-MS analysis of the hot methanolic extract of the leaves (HMEL) of C. lancifolius exhibited the bioactive compounds such as 1-(3-Methoxy-2-nitrobenzyl) iso quinoline, morphin-4-ol-6,7-dione, 1-bromo-N-methyl-, phytol, hexadecanoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester, 2,2':4',2"-terthiophene, ethyl iso-allocholate, caryophyllene oxide, campesterol, epiglobulol, cholestan-3-ol, 2-methylene-, (3á,5à)-, dasycarpidan-1-methanol, acetate (ester) and oleic acid, eicosyl ester. The FT-IR analysis of HMEL of C. lancifolius showed a unique peak at 3184, 2413, 1657 cm-1 representing coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid. The HMEL of C. lancifolius was actively inhibiting the proliferation of breast cancer cells MCF-7 ATCC at the concentration of 72.66 ± 8.21 µg/ml as IC50 value. The HMEL of C. lancifolius also revealed a good spectrum of activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial cultures screened in this work. The activity observed has shown more or less similar effects against screened bacteria. However, the magnitude of potentiality was significantly lesser compared to standard ciprofloxacin disc at p< 0.001 level (99% confidence intervals). Furthermore, the study demonstrating the bioactive compounds can be isolated from the leaves of C. lancifolius.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os compostos bioativos das folhas de Conocarpus lancifolius (C. lancifolius). A análise por GC-MS do extrato metanólico quente das folhas (HMEL) de C. lancifolius exibiu os compostos bioativos como 1- (3-Metoxi-2-nitrobenzil) isoquinolina, morfina-4-ol-6,7- diona, 1-bromo-N-metil-, fitol, ácido hexadecanoico, 2,3-di-hidroxipropil éster, 2,2 ': 4', 2 " - tertiofeno, isoalocolato de etil, óxido de cariofileno, campesterol, epiglobulol, colestano -3-ol, 2-metileno-, (3á, 5à) -, dasycarpidan-1-metanol, acetato (éster) e ácido oleico, éster eicosílico. A análise FT-IR de HMEL de C. lancifolius mostrou um pico único em 3184, 2413, 1657 cm-1 representando ácido cumarico, ácido clorogênico e ácido ferúlico. O HMEL de C. lancifolius inibiu ativamente a proliferação de células de câncer de mama MCF-7 ATCC na concentração de 72,66 ± 8,21 µg / ml como valor de IC50. O HMEL de C. lancifolius também revelou bom espectro de atividade contra culturas de bactérias Gram-positivas e Gram-negativas rastreadas neste trabalho. A atividade observada mostrou efeitos mais ou menos semelhantes contra bactérias rastreadas. No entanto, a magnitude da potencialidade foi significativamente menor em comparação com o disco de ciprofloxacina padrão em nível de p < 0,001 (intervalos de confiança de 99%). Além disso, o estudo demonstrando os compostos bioativos pode ser isolado das folhas de C. lancifolius.

Mechanical, optical, and physicochemical properties of HPMC-based doxazosin mesylate orodispersible films

Abstract In this study, orodispersible films formed from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) E6 (2, 2.5, and 3%) and plasticizers ((glycerin (Gly), propylene glycol (PP), or polyethylene glycol (PEG)), containing doxazosin mesylate, were prepared by the solvent casting method and characterized. Design of experiments (DoE) was used as a statistical tool to facilitate the interpretation of the experimental data and allow the identification of optimal levels of factors for maximum formulation performance. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) curves and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) diffractograms showed doxazosin mesylate amorphization, probably due to complexation with the polymer (HPMC E6), and the glass transition temperature of the polymer was reduced by adding a plasticizer. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy results showed that the chemical structure of doxazosin mesylate was preserved when introduced into the polymer matrix, and the plasticizers, glycerin and PEG, affected the polymer matrix with high intensity. The addition of plasticizers increased the elongation at break and adhesiveness (Gly > PEG > PP), confirming the greater plasticizer effect of Gly observed in DSC and FTIR studies. Greater transparency was observed for the orodispersible films prepared using PP. The addition of citric acid as a pH modifier was fundamental for the release of doxazosin mesylate, and the desirability formulation had a release profile similar to that of the reference product

Encapsulation of benznidazole in nanostructured lipid carriers and increased trypanocidal activity in a resistant Trypanosoma cruzi strain

Abstract Chagas disease is a neglected parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, whose treatment has remained unsatisfactory for over 50 years, given that it is limited to two drugs. Benznidazole (BZN) is an efficient antichagasic drug used as the first choice, although its poor water-solubility, irregular oral absorption, low efficacy in the chronic phase, and various associated adverse effects are limiting factors for treatment. Incorporating drugs with such characteristics into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) is a promising alternative to overcome these limiting obstacles, enhancing drug efficacy and bioavailability while reducing toxicity. Therefore, this study proposed NLC-BZN formulations in different compositions prepared by hot-melt homogenization followed by ultrasound, and the optimized formulation was characterized by FTIR, DRX, DSC, and thermogravimetry. Biological activities included in vitro membrane toxicity (red blood cells), fibroblast cell cytotoxicity, and trypanocidal activity against epimastigotes of the Colombian strain of T. cruzi. The optimized NLC-BZN had a small size (110 nm), negative zeta potential (-18.0 mV), and high encapsulation (1.64% of drug loading), as shown by infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermal analysis. The NLC-BZN also promoted lower in vitro membrane toxicity (<3% hemolysis), and 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) for NLC-BZN in L929 fibroblast cells (110.7 µg/mL) was twice the value as the free BZN (51.3 µg/mL). Our findings showed that the NLC-BZN had higher trypanocidal activity than free BZN against the epimastigotes of the resistant Colombian strain, and this novel NLC-BZN formulation proved to be a promising tool in treating Chagas disease and considered suitable for oral and parenteral administration

Influence of medium-translucency monolithic zirconia thicknesses and light-curing time on the polymerization of dual-cure resin cements

Aim: To investigate and compare the effects of different thicknesses of medium-translucency monolithic zirconia and light curing times on the polymerization of two types of dual-cured resin cement. Methods: A total of 200 cement specimens were prepared from TheraCem and RelyX U200 cement. The specimens were divided into 5 groups: Group I, without interposing zirconia; Group II, 0.50 mm thickness; Group III, 1.00 mm; Group IV, 1.50 mm; and Group V, 2.00 mm thickness. Each group was subdivided into (1) RelyX U200 and (2) TheraCem. Each subgroup was subdivided according to the light-curing time into (a) 20 s and (b) 40 s (n =5). The polymerization was tested using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and a Vickers microhardness tester. The data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA, an independent sample t-test, and Tukey's test at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The control group had the highest values of DC and VMH, followed by 0.50, 1.00, and 1.50 mm, respectively, while the 2.00 mm group showed the lowest values. The specimens irradiated for 40 s had greater DC and VMH than those irradiated for 20 s. RelyX U200 revealed higher values for both parameters compared to TheraCem cement. Conclusion: The polymerization of selfadhesive cement depends on the thickness of the monolithic zirconia, the light curing time, and the composition of the cement. The cement should be irradiated for a longer period than recommended to overcome the light attenuation of zirconia. TEGDMA-based self-adhesive cement showed a higher DC and VMH than BISGMA-based cement

Starch-based orodispersible film for diclofenac release

Abstract The form of drug administration affects the success of treatment, since it can influence adherence of the patient to the therapy. The use of orodispersible films has emerged as a way to overcome some drawbacks of conventional methods of drug delivery, especially for patients experiencing difficulty in swallowing. These films are prepared using a matrix that incorporates the drug and contains other substances that confer the properties of the system. The present work describes the use of thermoplastic starch as a carrier for the model drug diclofenac, including film preparation and testing of its orodispersible potential. Preparation of the film employed a microwave oven to gelatinize and plasticize corn starch, with incorporation of the model drug, followed by solvent-casting. The samples were characterized using mechanical tests, analyses of water uptake and water content, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results indicated that the film presented promising properties as an alternative system for oral drug administration, with good incorporation and distribution of the drug in the matrix. The material displayed satisfactory mechanical properties, which are crucial for this type of material, due to the need for oral administration and handling before use.

Efeitos do laser de baixa intensidade em osteoblastos cultivados em arcabouços nanofibrosos de ácido polilático / Effects of low-intensity laser on osteoblasts cultured on polylactic acid nanofibrous scaffolds

A engenharia de tecidos ósseos é um ramo importante da medicina regenerativa e envolve o desenvolvimento de arcabouços com composição e arquitetura favoráveis à integração celular, além do estudo de fatores capazes de promover a adesão e proliferação celular, incluindo estímulos químicos e biofísicos. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a utilização do laser de baixa intensidade (LBI) como uma ferramenta para promover a bioestimulação in vitro de células osteoblásticas cultivadas em arcabouços nanofibrosos de ácido polilático (PLA). Os arcabouços foram produzidos pela técnica de eletrofiação e caracterizados quanto à molhabilidade, composição pela espectroscopia no infravermelho por transformada de Fourier (FTIR), morfologia da superfície por microscópica eletrônica de varredura (MEV), caracterização termogravimétrica (TGA), calorimetria diferencial exploratória (DSC) e cristalinidade por difração de raios-X (DRX). Os ensaios biológicos foram conduzidos com osteoblastos da linhagem OFCOL II cultivados na superfície dos arcabouços e submetidos ou não (grupo controle) a irradiação com laser diodo InGaAIP na potência de 30 mW, nas doses de 1, 4 e 6 J/cm² e nos comprimentos de onda de 660 nm (grupos V1, V4, V6, respectivo as doses) e 780 nm (grupos I1, I4 e I6, respectivo as doses). Os efeitos do LBI na proliferação dos osteoblastos foram avaliados através do método bioquímico Alamar Blue, nos intervalos de 24, 48 e 72h, enquanto a viabilidade e a morfologia celular foram analisadas no intervalo de 72h, através do ensaio Live/Dead e da microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV), respectivamente. Os dados do ensaio bioquímico de Alamar Blue mostraram uma maior proliferação celular nos grupos V6 em todos os intervalos analíticos em comparação ao grupo controle (p<0,05). Outras diferenças entre o grupo controle e irradiados foram encontradas apenas nos intervalos de 48h e 72h para V1, e para o grupo IV6 em 72h. O ensaio Live/Dead revelou um aumento na viabilidade celular nos grupos trados com LBI, sendo significativamente maior no grupo V1 quando comparado ao grupo controle. A análise por MEV mostrou adequada interação dos osteoblastos aos arcabouços, com o corpo celular se espalhando ao longo do eixo da nanofibra e a presença de contatos físicos mais evidentes, através da formação de ligação por meio de filopódios e lamelipódios, nos grupos V1, V6 e I6. Em conjunto, os dados do presente trabalho mostraram que o LBI promove a bioestimulação de osteoblastos cultivados sobre nanofibras de PLA, o que aponta para o seu uso potencial nas técnicas de engenharia tecidual óssea, sobretudo no que se refere ao uso do comprimento de onda de 660 nm, a qual apresentou grupos com mais resultados significativos (AU).

Bone tissue engineering is a relevant branch of regenerative medicine and involves the development of scaffolds with composition and architecture favorable to cell integration, in addition to studying factors capable of promoting cell adhesion and proliferation, including chemical and biophysical stimuli. The study aimed to evaluate the use of low-level laser irradiation (LLLI) to promote in vitro biostimulation of osteoblastic cells cultured on polylactic acid (PLA) nanofibrous scaffolds. The scaffolds were produced by the electrospinning technique and characterized in terms of wettability, composition by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), surface morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric characterization (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and crystallinity by Xray diffraction (XRD). The biological assays were conducted with osteoblasts of the OFCOL II lineage cultured on the surface of the scaffolds and submitted or not (control group) to irradiation with InGaAIP diode laser, power of 30 mW, with doses of 1, 4 and 6 J/cm² and wavelengths of 660 nm (groups V1, V4, V6, respectively doses) and 780 nm (groups I1, I4 and I6, respectively doses). The effects of LLLT from the perspective of osteoblasts were evaluated using the biochemical method Alamar Blue assay, at intervals of 24, 48 and 72h, while cell viability and morphology were observed at 72h, using the Live/Dead assay and electron microscopy. scan (SEM), respectively. The Alamar Blue assay data showed more significant cell proliferation in groups in the V6 groups at all analytical intervals compared to the control group (p<0.05). Other differences between the control and irradiated groups were found only at intervals of 48h and 72h for V1, and for group IV6 at 72h. The Live/Dead assay revealed an increase in cell viability in the groups treated with LLLT, being significantly higher in the V1 group when compared to the control group. SEM analysis showed adequate interaction between osteoblasts and scaffolds, with the cell body spreading along the nanofiber axis and the presence of more evident physical contacts, through the formation of bonds through filopodia and lamellipodia, in groups V1, V6 and I6. Together, the data from the present study observed that LLLT promotes the biostimulation of osteoblasts cultured on PLA nanofibers, which pointed to its potential use in bone tissue engineering techniques, especially with regard to the use of the wavelength of 660 nm, which presented groups with more significant results (AU).

The relationships among Flory-Huggins specific interaction parameters, maximum amorphous capacity, and solid-state interactions of spray dried amorphous drug dispersions with conventional and novel pharmaceutical polymers / Las relaciones entre los parámetros de interacción específicos de Flry-Huggins, la capacidad amorfa máxima y las interacciones en estado sólido de las dispersiones de fármacos amorfos secados por aspersión con polímeros farmacéuticos convencionales y nuevos

This study evaluated the specific interactions between drug and polymers in amorphous spray dried dispersions (SDDs). Four Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) II class drugs were evaluated. Binary and ternary SDDs were manufactured with conventional polymers and arabinogalactan. Specific interaction parameters between drug and polymer were determined using theoretical calculations and DSC data. Analytical methods were used to evaluate solid and solution state interactions. Maximum amorphous content for each formulation was calculated using DSC. Flory-Huggins Specific Interaction Parameters were calculated. Negative specific parameters were associated with solid-state interactions and improved capacity of drug in the amorphous state. Ternary SDDs containing drug, polymer, and arabinogalactan displayed similar hydrogen bonding as was observed with binary SDDs. Solution-state interactions observed in binary systems may be used in tertiary systems to improve the amorphous drug capacity and improved dissolution compared to the binary. The resultant tertiary systems are an improvement over binary drug polymer systems.

Este estudio evaluó las interacciones específicas entre el fármaco y los polímeros en dispersiones amorfas secadas por pulverización (SDD). Se evaluaron cuatro fármacos de clase II del Sistema de Clasificación Biofarmacéutica (BCS). Los SDD binarios y ternarios se fabricaron con polímeros convencionales y arabinogalactano. Los parámetros de interacción específicos entre el fármaco y el polímero se determinaron utilizando cálculos teóricos y datos de DSC. Se utilizaron métodos analíticos para evaluar las interacciones del estado sólido y de la solución. El contenido amorfo máximo para cada formulación se calculó usando DSC. Se calcularon los parámetros de interacción específicos de Flory-Huggins. Los parámetros específicos negativos se asociaron con interacciones en estado sólido y una capacidad mejorada del fármaco en el estado amorfo. Los SDD ternarios que contienen fármaco, polímero y arabinogalactano mostraron enlaces de hidrógeno similares a los observados con los SDD binarios. Las interacciones de estado de solución observadas en sistemas binarios pueden usarse en sistemas terciarios para mejorar la capacidad del fármaco amorfo y mejorar la disolución en comparación con el binario. Los sistemas terciarios resultantes son una mejora con respecto a los sistemas de polímeros de fármacos binarios.

Co-amorphous technology to improve dissolution and physical stability of silybin / 中国中药杂志

The present study explored the effect of co-amorphous technology in improving the dissolution rate and stability of silybin based on the puerarin-silybin co-amorphous system prepared by the spray-drying method. Solid-state characterization was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction(PXRD), polarizing microscopy(PLM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry(DSC), etc. Saturated powder dissolution, intrinsic dissolution rate, moisture absorption, and stability were further investigated. The results showed that puerarin and silybin formed a co-amorphous system at a single glass transition temperature which was higher than that of any crude drug. The intrinsic dissolution rate and supersaturated powder dissolution of silybin in the co-amorphous system were higher than those of the crude drug and amorphous system. The co-amorphous system kept stable for as long as three months under the condition of 40 ℃, 75% relative humidity, which was longer than that of the single amorphous silybin. Therefore, the co-amorphous technology could significantly improve the dissolution and stability of silybin.

Explore the antiproliferative phytocompounds from ethanolic extracts of Citrus paradisi against liver cancer cell line by chemical analysis using TLC and FT-IR spectroscopy / Explorar os fitocompostos antiproliferativos de extratos etanólicos de Citrus paradisi contra linhagem de células de câncer de fígado por análise química usando espectroscopia de TLC e FT-IR

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro antiproliferative activity of ethanolic extract of leaves and fruits Citrus paradisi plant on HepG-2 liver cell lines by MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2Hterazolium bromide) assay and to isolate and characterize the antiproliferative compounds by TLC (Thin layer chromatography) and FT-IR (Fourier transforms Infrared) spectroscopy. Qualitative phytochemical screening tests were performed to detect phytochemicals compounds from the crude extracts. Antioxidant activity of the plant extracts were characterized by using DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging method. The results showed that antioxidant activity using DPPH were found to be increased in a concentration dependent manner and decreased cell viability and cell growth inhibition in a dose dependent manner. The findings from this study indicated that fruit extract exhibited good antiproliferation and antioxidant potential. The seven functional groups of phytocompounds such as carboxylic acid, amine salt, aromatic compounds, cyclic alkene, aldehyde, fluoro compounds and alkene were detected by FT-IR which indicated that fruit extracts of Citrus paradisi possessed vast potential as a medicinal drug especially in liver cancer treatment.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a atividade antiproliferativa in vitro do extrato etanólico de folhas e frutos da planta Citrus paradisi em linhagens de células hepáticas HepG-2 por MTT (3- (4, 5-dimetil-2-tiazolil) -2, Ensaio de brometo de 5-difenil-2H-terazólio) e isolar e caracterizar os compostos antiproliferativos por espectroscopia de TLC (cromatografia de camada fina) e FT-IR (infravermelho com transformadas de Fourier). Testes qualitativos de triagem fitoquímica foram realizados para detectar compostos fitoquímicos nos extratos brutos. A atividade antioxidante dos extratos vegetais foi caracterizada pelo método de eliminação de radicais livres DPPH (2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazil). Os resultados mostraram que a atividade antioxidante usando DPPH aumentou de uma maneira dependente da concentração e diminuiu a viabilidade celular e a inibição do crescimento celular de uma maneira dependente da dose. Os resultados deste estudo indicaram que o extrato de fruta exibiu bom potencial antiproliferação e antioxidante. Os sete grupos funcionais de fitocompostos, como ácido carboxílico, sal de amina, compostos aromáticos, alceno cíclico, aldeído, compostos de flúor e alceno, foram detectados por FT-IR, o que indicou que extratos de frutas de Citrus paradisi possuíam vasto potencial como medicamento, especialmente no tratamento de câncer do fígado.

Pharmaceutical co-crystals of posaconazole for improvement of physicochemical properties

Abstract Posaconazole exerts an extended spectrum of antifungal activity against various strains of clinically relevant moulds and yeasts. In recent years, antifungal triazole posaconazole has become increasingly important for the prophylaxis and treatment of systemic mycoses. After oral administration of posaconazole, absolute bioavailability has been estimated to range from 8% to 47%. Pharmaceutical co-crystallization is a promising approach for improving dissolution rate or manipulating other physical properties of API. The objective of this study is to improve the dissolution rate of posaconazole by co-crystallization. A 1:1 stoichiometric co-crystals of adipic acid were prepared by solvent assisted grinding method. The prepared co-crystals were subjected to solid-state characterization by FTIR, PXRD and DSC studies. The physicochemical properties of posaconazole and co-crystals were assessed in terms of melting point, flowability and dissolution rate. The results indicated improvement in flow property and dissolution rate. In vitro dissolution profile of co-crystals showed a significant increased dissolution of posaconazole from initial period in 0.1 N hydrochloric acid solution. The dissolution efficiency for posaconazole-adipic acid co-crystal was 61.65 % against posaconazole, 46.58 %. Thus, co-crystallization can be a promising approach to prepare posaconazole-adipic acid co-crystals with improved physicochemical properties.