Toxicological impact of rabeprazole and evaluation of toxic effects on the plant-based eukaryotic test models / Impacto toxicológico del rabeprazol y evaluación de los efectos tóxicos en los modelos de prueba eucariotas basados en plantas

Background: Rabeprazole (RPZ), a widely used proton pump inhibitor, is known to have toxic effects on human beings. Objective: To evaluate the toxic effects of RPZ sodium (RPZ-Na) using plant-based eukaryotic test systems. Methods: The toxic effect of RPZ-Na (0.025-0.4 mM) was evaluated on Allium cepa, Allium sativum, and Cicer arietinum at different exposure times using CuSO4 as a reference standard. Results: RPZ-Na concentration-dependently reduced the root length of A. cepa and A. sativum, as well as the shoot and root lengths of C. arietinum. RPZ-Na at 0.1 to 0.4 µg/mL and at 48 h exposure time exerted toxic effects on the tested systems. Conclusions: RPZ-Na exerted a concentration- and time-dependent toxic effect on A. cepa, A. sativum, and C. arietinum. Therefore, it is important to take adequate precautions during its long-term use.

Antecedentes: El rabeprazol (RPZ), un inhibidor, de la bomba de protones del estómago, ampliamente utilizado; sin embargo, tiene efectos tóxicos en los seres humanos. Objetivo: Evaluar los efectos tóxicos del RPZ sódico (RPZ-Na) Utilizando plantas como modelos eucariotas para evaluación de toxicidad. Métodos: El efecto tóxico de RPZ-Na (0,025-0,4 mM) en Allium cepa, Allium sativum y Cicer arietinum en diferentes tiempos de exposición utilizando CuSO4como estándar de referencia. Resultados: RPZ-Na, de forma dependiente de su concentración, redujo la longitud de raíces de A. cepa y A. sativum, así como el tamaño de los brotes y la raíz de C. arietinum. RPZ-Na a 0,1 a 0,4 µg/mL y a 48 h de tiempo de exposición ejerció efectos tóxicos en los sistemas de prueba. Conclusiones: RPZ-Na ejerció un efecto tóxico dependiente de la concentración y el tiempo de exposición en A. cepa, A. sativum y C. arietinum. Por lo tanto, es importante tomar precauciones adecuadas durante su uso a largo plazo.

Parâmetros farmacocinéticos, farmacodinâmicos e toxicidade da hidroxicloroquina: uma revisão / Parameters pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicity of hydroxychloroquine: a review

Objetivo: verificar a toxicidade do uso medicamentoso da hidroxicloroquina em pacientes. Metodologia: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura com uma avaliação documental e abordagem descritiva nas bases de dados eletrônicos LILACS, SCIELO e MEDLINE-PUBMED, usando diferentes combinações de descritores, publicados entre os anos de 2015 a 2023, nos idiomas inglês, espanhol e português. Resultados: este estudo revisou 117 artigos científicos, dos quais 67 foram nos Estados Unidos. Além disso, o ano de 2020 obteve 21,2% a mais de publicações em relação ao ano de 2015. Desse modo, notou-se que a prevalência de 44,07% das lesões pelo uso da hidroxicloroquina foi oftálmica, 35,5% foram cardíacas, 14,4%, dermatológicas e as outras demais porcentagens restantes. Conclusão: portanto, os resultados obtidos confirmam a toxicidade da hidroxicloroquina no uso de tratamentos adjacentes.

Introduction: Tto verify the toxicity of the use of hydroxychloroquine medications in patients. Methods: it is an integrative literature review with a documentary evaluation and descriptive approach conducted in the electronic databases LILACS, SCIELO, and MEDLINE-PUBMED, using different combinations of descriptors, published between 2015 and 2023 in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Results: this study reviewed 117 scientific articles, with 67 of them conducted in the United States. Besides that, 2020 had a 21.2% increase in publications compared to 2015. It was observed that 44.07% of the injuries caused by hydroxychloroquine use were ophthalmic, 35.5% were cardiac, 14.4% were dermatological, and the remaining percentages accounted for other types of injuries. Conclusion: therefore, the obtained results confirm the toxicity of hydroxychloroquine in the use of adjacent treatments.

Resistencia a la corrosión y citotoxicidad de los aceros inoxidables expuestos a soluciones de cloruro / Corrosion resistance and cytotoxicity of stainless steels exposed to chloride solutions / Resistência à corrosão e citotoxicidade de aços inoxidáveis expostos a soluções de cloretos

Objetivo: Analizar la resistencia a la corrosión por picaduras de aceros inoxidables AISI 304 y AISI 420 en un medio que contiene cloruros (solu-ción de NaCl al 0,9 y 3,5%, en masa), así como su citotoxicidad, in vitro, en muestras con y sin corrosión por picaduras. Método: Estudio experimental. Se utilizaron técnicas de polarización potenciodinámica cíclica (PPC) para caracterizar el alcance y la forma del ataque corrosivo a las muestras. Se utilizó el método de difusión en agar y evaluación de la viabilidad de la línea celular NCTC clon 929 (CCIAL 020) para evaluar la citotoxicidad de las muestras de acero con y sin picaduras. Resultados: El acero AISI 304 presentó una resistencia a la corrosión superior al acero AISI 420. Los valores de potencial de picadura disminuyeron para ambos aceros cuando aumentó la concentración de cloruros en la solución agresiva. Hubo toxicidad celular moderada (grado 3 ­ ISO 10993-5) en todas las muestras. Conclusión: Los resultados corroboraron las recomendaciones para evitar la inmersión innecesaria de instrumentos en soluciones salinas. La citotoxicidad moderada de estos aceros desaconseja su uso en dispositivos implantables, reservándolos solo para instrumentos quirúrgicos. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the pitting corrosion resistance of AISI 304 and AISI 420 stainless steels in chloride-containing medium (0.9 and 3.5% NaCl solution, by weight), as well as their cytotoxicity,in vitro, in samples with and without pitting corrosion. Method: This is an experimental study. Cyclic potentiodynamic polarization (CPP) techniques were used to characterize the extent and shape of the corrosive attack on the samples. The agar diffusion and viability evaluation method of the NCTC clone 929 cell line (CCIAL 020) was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of samples of steels with and without pitting. Results: The AISI 304 steel showed superior corrosion resistance to the AISI 420 steel. The values of the pitting potentials decreased for both steels when the chloride concentration in the aggressive solution was increased. There was moderate cell toxicity (grade 3 ­ ISO 10993-5) in all samples. Conclusions: The results corroborated the recommendations to avoid unnecessary immersion of the instruments in saline solutions. Moderate cytotoxicity to these steels contraindicates their use in implantable devices, only in surgical instruments. (AU)

Objetivo: Analisar a resistência à corrosão por pites dos aços inoxidáveis AISI 304 e AISI 420 em meio contendo cloretos (solução de NaCl a 0,9 e 3,5%, em massa), assim como sua citotoxicidade,in vitro, em amostras com e sem corrosão por pites. Método: Estudo experimental. Utilizaram-se téc-nicas de polarização potenciodinâmica cíclica (PPC) para caracterizar extensão e forma do ataque corrosivo nas amostras. O método de difusão em ágar e avaliação da viabilidade da linhagem celular NCTC clone 929 (CCIAL 020) foi empregado para avaliar a citotoxicidade de amostras dos aços com e sem pites. Resultados: O aço AISI 304 apresentou resistência à corrosão superior ao aço AISI 420. Os valores dos potenciais de pite caíram para ambos os aços quando se aumentou a concentração de cloretos na solução agressiva. Houve moderada toxicidade celular (grau 3 ­ ISO 10993-5) em todas as amostras. Conclusão: Os resultados corroboraram as recomendações para evitar a imersão desnecessária dos instrumentais em soluções salinas. A citotoxicidade moderada para esses aços contraindica seu uso em dispositivos implantáveis, apenas em instrumentos cirúrgicos. (AU)

Isolation and cDNA cloning of four peptide toxins from the sea anemone Heteractis aurora

Background: Sea anemones are well known to contain multiple peptide toxins. However, of more than 1100 species of sea anemones distributed worldwide, only a little over 50 have been studied for peptide toxins. Therefore, innumerable unique and novel peptide toxins remain to be discovered in unstudied sea anemones. Methods: Isolation of peptide toxins in the sea anemone Heteractis aurora was attempted by gel filtration and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography, using the toxicity to crabs as an index. The amino acid sequences of the isolated four toxins (Hau I-IV) and their precursors were determined using a combination of protein sequencing and cDNA cloning. Results: Hau I and IV were potently lethal to crabs, whereas Hau II and III were only paralytic. The precursor proteins of the four toxins were commonly composed of a signal peptide, a propart, and the remaining region including a mature peptide. Interestingly, four and two copies of the mature peptide were present in the precursor proteins of Hau II and III, respectively. Homology searches revealed that Hau I (30 amino acid residues) is a novel peptide toxin, although it has the same cysteine pattern CXXC-C-C as the boundless ß-hairpin (BBH) family. Hau II (27 amino acid residues) and III (28 amino acid residues) were homologous with the BBH family, whereas Hau IV (49 amino acid residues) was a new member of the well-known type 1 sodium channel toxin family. Conclusion: This study showed that a novel class of toxin (Hau I), two BBH family toxins (Hau II and III), and a type 1 sodium channel toxin (Hau IV) are present in the toxin of the sea anemone H. aurora.

Phytotoxic and cytogenotoxic assessment of glyphosate on Lactuca sativa L / Avaliação fitotóxica e citogenotóxica do glifosato em Lactuca sativa L

The active ingredient glyphosate is the most commercialized herbicide on the world market due to its capability in eliminating weeds. However, it can harm the development of non-target organisms and threaten environmental quality. This study analyzed the effects of potentially toxic concentrations of glyphosate on germination, growth, cell cycle and genomic stability of Lactuca sativa L., and identified the most sensitive variables for assessing the toxicity of this herbicide to this biomonitor. Seeds of L. sativa were germinated in Petri dishes containing a sheet of filter paper moistened with 5 mL of a concentration of glyphosate (1.34, 3.35, 6.70, 10.05, 13.40 mg L-1). Controls consisted of distilled water (negative) and 3 mg L-1 CuSO4 (positive). Macroscopic and microscopic variables were analyzed. The germination of L. sativa was not affected by the concentrations of glyphosate. Root length and shoot height of the plants and the mitotic index decreased from the lowest concentration tested on. The chromosomal anomaly index and frequency of micronuclei increased by 3.2 and 22 times, respectively, with the presence of the lowest concentration of glyphosate compared to the negative control. The observed phytotoxic and cytogenotoxic effects demonstrate the negative influence that glyphosate has on the development of L. sativa. Root length and microscopic variables showed the highest sensitivity. This study warns of the possible harmful effects that glyphosate can have on non-target organisms and suggests greater control over the use of this herbicide to mitigate its environmental impact.

O ingrediente ativo glifosato é o herbicida mais comercializado do mercado mundial, pela sua capacidade de eliminar as plantas daninhas. No entanto, ele pode prejudicar o desenvolvimento dos organismos não-alvo e ameaçar a qualidade do ambiente. O estudo teve como objetivo analisar os efeitos de concentrações potencialmente tóxicas de glifosato sobre a germinação, o crescimento, o ciclo celular e a estabilidade genômica de Lactuca sativa L., e identificar as variáveis mais sensíveis para avaliar a toxicidade deste herbicida ao biomonitor. Sementes de L. sativa foram germinadas em placas de Petri contendo uma folha de papel-filtro umedecida com 5 mL das concentrações de glifosato (1,34, 3,35, 6,70, 10,05, 13,40 mg L-1). Os controles consistiram em água destilada (negativo) e 3 mg L-1 de CuSO4 (positivo). Variáveis macroscópicas e microscópicas foram analisadas. A germinação de L. sativa não foi afetada pelas concentrações de glifosato. O comprimento da raiz e a altura da parte aérea das plantas e o índice mitótico reduziram desde a menor concentração testada. O índice de anomalias cromossômicas e a frequência de micronúcleos aumentaram, respectivamente, 3,2 e 22 vezes na presença da menor concentração de glifosato em comparação ao controle negativo. Os efeitos fitotóxicos e citogenotóxicos observados demonstram a interferência negativa do herbicida no desenvolvimento de L. sativa. O comprimento da raiz e as variáveis microscópicas foram as que apresentaram maior sensibilidade. Este estudo alerta sobre os possíveis efeitos prejudiciais que o glifosato pode provocar nos organismos não-alvo, sugerindo um maior controle quanto à utilização deste herbicida, a fim de mitigar o seu impacto ambiental.

¿Cuáles son los efectos del uso de cannabis medicinal en personas adultas?: Síntesis rápida de evidencia. Analítica / What are the effects of medicinal cannabis use in adults?: Rapid evidence synthesis. Analytical

Antecedentes y objetivos: El uso de cannabis no medicinal en jóvenes de 15 a 34 años tiene una prevalencia global del 15% y del 12% en Chile (2020). Si bien se asocia a efectos nocivos, el cannabis medicinal se utiliza para tratar patologías crónicas, aunque existen dudas sobre sus beneficios y efectos adversos. En este contexto, el Departamento de Ciclo Vital y de Salud Mental, de la División de Prevención y Control de Enfermedades, requirió una síntesis que responda a cuáles son los efectos del uso de cannabis medicinal en personas adultas. Metodología: Se formuló una estrategia de búsqueda en las bases de datos: MEDLINE y EMBASE utilizando los conceptos medical cannabis, toxicity, adverse effects y therapeutic use, con fecha 31 de agosto de 2023. Dos revisores independientes seleccionaron los estudios que respondieran a la pregunta, basándose en criterios de inclusión y exclusión acordados. La extracción de cada artículo la realizó. Para resumir los resultados y valorar la certeza de evidencia se utilizó la metodología GRADE. Resultados: Se incluyeron 12 estudios primarios, y se obtuvieron los siguientes resultados: - Con certeza baja y moderada de la evidencia, se observa que el uso de cannabis medicinal, no tiene un efecto en el cambio de puntaje de dolor crónico (no oncológico) y en población oncológica. - Con certeza baja de la evidencia, se observa que el uso de cannabis medicinal no tiene un efecto en la espasticidad subjetiva y reducción del dolor en personas con esclerosis múltiple. - El uso de cannabis medicinal en personas con epilepsia podría no tener efecto sobre la ausencia de convulsiones, en comparación con su no uso. Sin embargo, la evidencia es limitada y se requieren más estudios para confirmar este resultado. - Con moderada y baja certeza de la evidencia se observa que el uso de cannabis podría aumentar algunos efectos adversos como mareos, náuseas, vómitos y somnolencia, en comparación con no usar en personas con dolor crónico (no oncológico), esclerosis múltiple y población oncológica.

Evaluación del recolector de orina en la toma de muestra de líquido seminal y tinción diferencial de fluorescencia en espermatozoides / Evaluation of the urine collector in the collection of the seminal fluid sample and differential fluorescent staining method in sperm

Objetivo: Verificar que los recolectores de orina no son tóxicos para los espermatozoides. Métodos: Se evaluó la toxicidad de recipientes de material de vidrio (control) y plástico (recolector de orina) con muestras de semen de buena concentración y movilidad de espermatozoides, mediante el estudio de la movilidad espermática a intervalos de 1 hora, a temperatura ambiente, durante 4 horas, siguiendo lineamientos de la quinta edición del Manual de la Organización Mundial de la Salud para el procesamiento de muestras de semen. Se comparó la movilidad progresiva entre ambos tipos de recipientes (vidrio y plástico) y se evaluaron las características morfotintoriales de los espermatozoides con la tinción diferencial de fluorescencia modificada. Resultados: No se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p = 0,334) entre los grupos. Los espermatozoides que emitieron una fluorescencia verde, se categorizaron como normales y presentaron una fuerte correlación (r = 1,000; p = 0,000); mientras que, las tinciones amarilla (r = -0,838, p = 0,009) y anaranjada (r = 0,940, p = 0,000), estuvieron altamente correlacionadas con anormalidades de los espermatozoides, destacándose que la fluorescencia anaranjada, tuvo una alta correlación (r = 0,940, p = 0,000) con anormalidades de la cabeza. Conclusión: El recolector de plástico no tiene efectos tóxicos sobre los espermatozoides, satisface las necesidades de recogida de la muestra de semen. Con la tinción diferencial de fluorescencia modificada, la tinción verde se asocia a espermatozoides morfológicamente normales y las amarilla y anaranjada se asocian a anormalidades de la cabeza, pieza intermedia y pieza principal de los espermatozoides(AU)

Objective: To verify that urine collectors are not toxic to sperm. Methods: The toxicity of glass (control) and plastic (urine collector) containers with semen samples of good concentration and sperm motility was evaluated by studying sperm motility at intervals of 1 hour, at room temperature, for 4 hours, following guidelines of the fifth edition of the World Health Organization Manual for the processing of semen samples. The progressive motility between both types of containers (glass and plastic) was compared and the morphotintorial characteristics of the spermatozoa were evaluated with the modified fluorescence differential stain. Results: No statistically significant differences (p = 0.334) were found between the groups. Spermatozoa that emitted a green fluorescence were categorized as normal and presented a strong correlation (r = 1,000; p = 0.000); Whereas, yellow (r = -0.838, p = 0.009) and orange (r = 0.940, p = 0.000) stains were highly correlated with sperm abnormalities, highlighting that orange fluorescence had a high correlation (r = 0.940, p = 0.000) with head abnormalities. Conclusion: The plastic collector has no toxic effects on sperm, it satisfies the needs of collection of the semen sample. With modified fluorescence differential staining, green staining is associated with morphologically normal spermatozoa and yellow and orange stains are associated with abnormalities of the head, middle piece, and main piece of sperm(AU)

Chemical characterization, cytotoxicity, antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of Justicia pectoralis Jacq and Croton jacobinensis Baill extracts

Abstract In this research, aqueous and ethanolic extracts from Justicia pectoralis Jacq and Croton Jacobinensis Baill were characterized. The UPLC-QTOF-MSE analysis was performed on the extracts identified, predominantly, flavonoids, tannins and acids. The extracts did not indicate toxicity in human epithelial cells. C. jacobinensis presented a concentration of phenolics 60.5% higher than J. pectoralis in all scenarios evaluated and, for both samples, the hydroalcoholic extract at 70% exhibited the best efficiency in the extraction (14501.3 and 32521.5 mg GAE 100 g-1 for J. pectoralis and C. jacobinensis, respectively). The antioxidant activity presented a positive correlation with the concentration of phenolics, being 1.186,1 and 1.507,9 µM of Trolox for J. pectoralis and C. jacobinensis at 70% of ethanol; however, it was not verified statistical difference between the ethanolic solutions (p < 0.05). The antimicrobial activity of J. pectoralis extracts was highlighted once was the most effective against gram-positive bacteria. The results suggest that both J. pectoralis and C. jacobinensis extracts present the potential to be applied as natural additives due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and safety. Thus, it is suggesting the development of studies that could investigate the interaction of these plant extracts with food matrices is required

Protective effect of nebivolol on rat ovary exposed to deltamethrin toxicity

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the antioxidant activity of nebivolol against possible damage to the ovarian tissue due to the application of deltamethrin as a toxic agent, by evaluating histopathological proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) signal molecules immunohistochemically. Methods: The animals were divided into three groups as control, deltamethrin and deltamethrin + nebivolol groups. Vaginal smears were taken after the animals were mated and detected on the first day of pregnancy. After the sixth day, deltamethrin (0.5 mL of 30 mg/kg BW undiluted ULV), and 2 mL of sterile nebivolol solution were administered intraperitoneally every day for 6-21 periods. After routine histopathological follow-up, the ovarian tissue was stained with hematoxylin and eosin stain. Results: Control group showed normal histology of ovarium. In deltamethrin group, hyperplasic cells, degenerative follicles, pyknotic nuclei, inflammation and hemorrhagic areas were observed. Nebivolol treatment restored these pathologies. Deltamethrin treatment increased TNF-α and PCNA reaction. However, nebivolol decreased the expression. Conclusions: It was thought that deltamethrin toxicity adversely affected follicle development by inducing degeneration and apoptotic process in preantral and antra follicle cells, and nebivolol administration might reduce inflammation and slow down the apoptotic signal in the nuclear phase and regulate reorganization.

Study of the potential toxicity of adrenaline to neurons, using the SH-SY5Y human cellular model

Abstract Prolonged overexposure to catecholamines causes toxicity, usually credited to continuous adrenoceptor stimulation, autoxidation, and the formation of reactive pro-oxidant species. Non-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells were used to study the possible contribution of oxidative stress in adrenaline (ADR)-induced neurotoxicity, as a model to predict the toxicity of this catecholamine to peripheral nerves. Cells were exposed to several concentrations of ADR (0.1, 0.25, 0.5 and 1mM) and two cytotoxicity assays [lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction] were performed at several time-points (24, 48, and 96h). The cytotoxicity of ADR was concentration- and time-dependent in both assays, since the lowest concentration tested (0.1mM) also caused significant cytotoxicity at 96h. N-acetyl-cysteine (1mM), a precursor of glutathione synthesis, prevented ADR-induced toxicity elicited by 0.5mM and 0.25mM ADR following a 96-h exposure, while the antioxidant Tiron (100µM) was non-protective. In conclusion, ADR led to mitochondrial distress and ultimately cell death in non-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, possibly because of ADR oxidation products. The involvement of such processes in the catecholamine-induced peripheral neuropathy requires further analysis.

Permitted daily exposure from preclinical studies of Ginkgo biloba L. dry extract

Abstract Resolution 658/2022 of the Brazilian Regulatory Agency requires the determination of the permitted daily exposure (PDE) of pharmaceutical agents. Ginkgo biloba L. is used therapeutically to treat memory deficits and other brain diseases. However, published results indicate that more studies are needed to confirm the safety of Ginkgo biloba. This study aimed to evaluate the dry extract of Ginkgo biloba L. leaves PDE as an ingredient in an oral pharmaceutical product in preclinical studies using mice. Acute oral toxicity and repeated dose experiments were performed based on OECD guidelines, as well as genotoxicity tests. The results indicate that Ginkgo biloba L. has low acute toxicity, no liver toxicity, and does not alter blood glucose levels. No changes in weight gain were observed, but food intake decreased in males during the first week of treatment at the highest dose. Hematological parameters were not altered in males, whereas females presented lower leukocyte and lymphocyte counts and higher neutrophil counts at the highest dose. The lipid profile was not altered in males, whereas total cholesterol was increased in females. The estimated PDE was 0.1 mg/day and, when related to the maximum residual concentration, indicates that the cleaning process used is safe and does not require reassessment.

Aluminum toxicity induced Alzheimer's Disease and its potential treatment using antioxidants - a review

Abstract Over the years, a handful of drugs have been approved to be used in the fight against Alzheimer's Disease but unfortunately none of these drugs have proven to be solid-treatments. Alzheimer's Disease is one of the most prominent diseases observed in the elderly population. In this review article, we discuss how aluminum toxicity can lead to neuro degeneration. Aluminum is abundantly present on the earth's crust and hence becomes easily accessible to man. This makes it an obvious choice in the preparation of numerous substances, packaging, etc. Such wide usage of the metal can pave an easy access to the body, leading to toxicities. Aluminum toxicity has been linked to oxidative stress which has an established relation with neurodegeneration and mitochondrial damage. We also discuss how consumption of antioxidants can be useful in combating oxidative stress.

Carboxyhemoglobinemia as a laboratory finding in an outpatient

Resumen El monóxido de carbono (CO) es un gas producido principalmente por combustión incompleta de hidrocarburos. La intoxicación por exposición ambiental puede presentarse con síntomas inespecíficos y constituye la causa más importante de aumento de carboxihemoglobina (COHb). Su nivel en sangre depende de la duración de la exposición, la ventilación minuto y las concentraciones de CO y oxígeno en el ambiente. La elevada toxicidad radica en la hipoxia tisular que se genera. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino, 73 años, en seguimiento en el hospital por neumonía intersticial no específica como patología de base. En un control de laboratorio se encontró 11,9% de COHb, sin exposición a tabaco. No utilizaba calefacción a gas sino un panel cerámico eléctrico, recientemente pintado con esmalte sintético. La suspensión del uso del panel normalizó la COHb. El CO, producto de descomposición térmica del esmalte sintético, explica la causa de la intoxicación.

Abstract Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas produced mainly by incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons. Poisoning from environmental exposure can present with nonspecific symptoms and is the most important cause of increased carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). Its blood level depends on the duration of exposure, minute ventilation, and the concentrations of CO and oxygen in the environment. The high toxicity lies in the tissue hypoxia that is generated. The case of a male patient, 73 years old, under follow-up in the hospital for non-specific interstitial pneumonia as the underlying pathology was presented. In a laboratory control, COHb 11,9% was found. There was no exposure to tobacco and there was no use of gas heating but of an electric ceramic panel, recently painted with synthetic enamel type paint. The suspension of the use of the panel normalised the COHb. The CO product of thermal decomposition of synthetic enamel explains the cause of poisoning.

Resumo O monóxido de carbono (CO) é um gás produzido principalmente pela combustão incompleta de hidrocarbonetos. A intoxicação por exposição ambiental pode se apresentar com sintomas inespecíficos e é a causa mais importante de aumento da carboxihemoglobina (COHb). Seu nível em sangue depende do tempo de exposição, da ventilação minuto e das concentrações de CO e oxigênio no ambiente. A alta toxicidade está na hipóxia tecidual gerada. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino, 73 anos, em acompanhamento hospitalar por pneumonia intersticial inespecífica como patologia de bas. Em um controle laboratorial, achou-se 11,9% de COHb, sem exposição ao tabaco. Não utilizava aquecimento a gás e sim um painel elétrico cerâmico, recentemente pintado com esmalte sintético. A suspensão do uso do painel normalizou o COHb. O CO produto da decomposição térmica do esmalte sintético explica a causa da intoxicação.

Linking toxicity and predation in a venomous arthropod: the case of Tityus fuhrmanni (Scorpiones: Buthidae), a generalist predator scorpion

Background: Scorpions are arachnids that have a generalist diet, which use venom to subdue their prey. The study of their trophic ecology and capture behavior is still limited compared to other organisms, and aspects such as trophic specialization in this group have been little explored. Methods: In order to determine the relationship between feeding behavior and venom toxicity in the scorpion species Tityus fuhrmanni, 33 specimens were offered prey with different morphologies and defense mechanisms: spiders, cockroaches and crickets. In each of the experiments we recorded the following aspects: acceptance rate, immobilization time and the number of capture attempts. The median lethal dose of T. fuhrmanni venom against the three different types of prey was also evaluated. Results: We found that this species does not have a marked difference in acceptance for any of the evaluated prey, but the number of capture attempts of spiders is higher when compared to the other types of prey. The immobilization time is shorter in spiders compared to other prey and the LD50 was higher for cockroaches. Conclusions: These results indicate that T. fuhrmanni is a scorpion with a generalist diet, has a venom with a different potency among prey and is capable of discriminating between prey types and employing distinct strategies to subdue them.(AU)

Biological properties of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi essential oil

Abstract Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi green fruits essential oil (EO) was evaluated regarding its phytochemical profile, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities, and toxicity. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry was applied to identify its constituents, thereafter the minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal and fungicidal concentrations, and its antibiofilm activity were evaluated. The EO cytotoxicity was assessed in tumor and non-tumor human cells, and in vivo toxicity was evaluated in a Galleria mellonella model. The major constituents of S. terebinthifolia EO were alpha-phellandrene and beta-phellandrene. The EO had a weak activity against all strains of Candida albicans (MIC 1000µg/mL) and had no activity against non-albicans strains, bacteria, and C. albicans biofilm. Cytostatic activity against all tumor cell lines was shown. Additionally, cell viability remained at EO concentrations up to 62.5 µg/mL. At 16 mg/mL, 50% hemolysis was observed, and it had low toxicity in vivo. Overall, the S. terebinthifolia EO was characterized by low antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, with no evidence of toxicity to human tumor and non-tumor cells

Cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of bleached turmeric hydro-alcoholic extract versus sodium hypochlorite as an endodontic irrigant: in vitro study / Citotoxicidade e atividade antibacteriana do extrato hidroalcoólico de cúrcuma branqueado versus hipoclorito de sódio como irrigante endodôntico: estudo in vitro

Objetivo: Avaliar a citotoxicidade e o efeito antibacteriano do extrato hidroalcoólico de cúrcuma branqueado comparado ao hipoclorito de sódio como irrigante endodôntico. Material e Métodos: A citotoxicidade foi avaliada em fibroblastos de pele humana usando o ensaio MTT. Os irrigantes foram testados em intervalos de tempo de 1, 5 e 15 minutos. Após o tempo de contato, a solução de MTT foi adicionada e as placas de poços foram incubadas. Após o período de incubação, a densidade óptica foi lida e correlacionada com a porcentagem de viabilidade celular. A eficiência antibacteriana foi avaliada usando o teste de contato direto. Cada irrigante endodôntico foi adicionado à suspensão fresca de Enterococcus faecalis e ao meio de infusão cérebro-coração e então incubados por 48 horas. Após o período de incubação, as leituras de densidade óptica foram obtidas e lidas por leitor de ELISA a 620 nm. Resultados: Os resultados do teste de citotoxicidade revelaram que o extrato de cúrcuma branqueado apresentou porcentagem de viabilidade celular significativamente maior do que o hipoclorito de sódio (NaOCl) em todos os intervalos de tempo (p<0,001). No entanto, no grupo de intervenção, a porcentagem de viabilidade celular diminuiu significativamente ao longo do tempo. Os resultados do teste antibacteriano mostraram inibição bacteriana por ambos os grupos com diferença não significativa entre os dois grupos testados (p<0,05). Conclusão:O extrato hidroalcoólico de cúrcuma branqueado pode representar uma alternativa fitoterápica irrigante endodôntico para evitar os efeitos tóxicos indesejáveis do NaOCl devido à sua menor citotoxicidade e efeito antibacteriano proeminente contra Enterococcus faecalis (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the cytotoxicity and antibacterial effect of bleached turmeric hydro-alcoholic extract compared to sodium hypochlorite as an endodontic irrigant. Material and Methods: Cytotoxicity was evaluated on human skin fibroblasts using MTT assay. The irrigants were tested at 1, 5- and 15-minutes time intervals. After contact time, MTT solution was added and well plates were incubated. After the incubation period, optical density was read and correlated with cell viability percent. Antibacterial efficiency was evaluated using direct contact test. Each endodontic irrigant was added to fresh Enterococcus faecalis suspension and brain heart infusion media then incubated for 48 hours. After incubation period, optical density readings were obtained and read by ELISA reader at 620 nm. Results:Results of cytotoxicity test revealed that bleached turmeric extract had significant higher cell viability percent than Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) at all time intervals (p<0.001). However, in the intervention group, cell viability percent significantly decreased over time. Results of antibacterial test showed bacterial inhibition by both groups with non-significant difference between the two tested groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Bleached turmeric hydro-alcoholic extract can represent an herbal alternative endodontic irrigant to avoid the undesirable toxic effects of NaOCl due to its less cytotoxicity and prominent antibacterial effect against Enterococcus faecalis. (AU)

Chemical and biological properties of nordihydroguaiaretic acid

Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a natural product obtained by the alkaline extraction of dried plants of Larrea tridentata species. Due to the biological properties presented, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and cytotoxic capacity, this compound is being increasingly studied. In this review, it was evaluated the benefits of NDGA against different animal models. Besides that, it was found that this compound has antitumor activity similar to its synthetic derivative terameprocol in prostate tumors. The hypoglycemic effect may be evidenced by the inhibition of sugar uptake by NDGA; in obesity, studies have observed that NDGA presented a positive regulatory effect for Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR-α) involved in the oxidation of hepatic fatty acids and reduced the expression of lipogenic genes. Regarding its antioxidant potential, its mechanism is related to the ability to in vitro scavenging reactive substances. Although there are several studies demonstrating the benefits of using NDGA, there are also reports of its toxicity, mainly of liver damage and nephrotoxicity

Hepatotoxicidad por talidomida: caso clínico y revisión de la literatura / Hepatotoxicity by thalidomide: case report and literature review

La talidomida fue desarrollada e introducida al mercado por los laboratorios Grünenthal en 1953, siendo usada principalmente como sedante y también para el tratamiento de las náuseas durante el embarazo. Los informes dan cuenta de aproximadamente 10.000 niños que nacieron con focomelia, dando lugar a la denominada "tragedia de la talidomida", que obligó a su retiro del mercado en 1962. Luego de casi 60 años, es nuevamente utilizada en otros campos de la medicina, entre ellos, para el tratamiento de la lepra y del mieloma múltiple, debido a sus propiedades antinflamatorias, inmunomoduladoras y antiangiogénicas, con expresas advertencias sobre su utilización durante el embarazo; no obstante, con su nuevo uso han sido reportados múltiples efectos adversos, entre los que se encuentra la hepatitis aguda o crónica inducida por este fármaco. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 34 años con lepra, que estaba en tratamiento con talidomida desde hacía 4 años para combatir las lesiones de piel asociadas a esta enfermedad. Presentó malestar general, vómito, pérdida de peso, artralgias, ictericia, edemas de miembros inferiores, ascitis, coluria y acolia. Se sospechó toxicidad por talidomida, por lo que se suspendió su uso, y se trató con ácido ursodesoxicólico y N-acetilcisteína con mejoría sintomática y de laboratorio, desde la primera semana hasta los 41 días de seguimiento. Las entidades clínicas para las cuales se aprobó talidomida en 1998, pueden traer nuevos problemas y desafíos clínicos. Este caso muestra hepatotoxicidad crónica por talidomida, situación que hasta el momento no se había reportado en la literatura.

Thalidomide was developed and introduced to the market by Grünenthal laboratories in 1953, being used mainly as a sedative and also for the treatment of nausea during pregnancy. Reports give account of approximately 10,000 children who were born with phocomelia, giving rise to the so-called "thalidomide tragedy", which forced its withdrawal from the market in 1962. After almost 60 years, it is usedagain in other fields of medicine, including the treatment of leprosy and multiple myeloma, due to its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-angiogenic properties, with clear warnings about its use during pregnancy; however, multiple adverse effects have been reported in patients with leprosy and multiple myeloma, including acute or chronic hepatitis. We present the case of a 34-year-old patient with leprosy, who had been on thalidomide therapy for 4 years to treat skin lesions associated with this disease. She presented general malaise, vomiting, weight loss, arthralgia, jaundice, lower limb edema, ascites, choluria and acholia. Thalidomide toxicity was suspected, so its use was suspended, and treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid and N-acetylcysteine was initiated, with symptomatic and laboratory improvement from the first week up until 41 days of follow-up. The new range of medical conditions for which thalidomide was approved for in 1998 may bring clinical challenges. This case shows chronic hepatotoxicity due to thalidomide, a situation that had not been reported previously in the literature.

The benefit of Silybum marianum in ethanol-induced reprotoxicity of male Wistar rat

Abstract This study investigates the toxic effects of ethanol (Eth) on the reproductive system of male rats and the possible protective role of Silybum marianum seeds-infused solution (SMI) over six consecutive weeks of administration. Animals were divided into the following groups: control, SMI positive control (200 mg/kg/day), Eth1 (1 g/kg/day), Eth2 (2 g/kg/day), Eth1+SMI, and Eth2+SMI. Plasma testosterone concentration, epididymal spermatozoa biology, and testicular and epididymal MDA, GSH and GPx levels were evaluated. The results indicated a significant decrease in testis and epididymis weight, testosterone level, sperm concentration, sperm vitality and sperm motility (total motility, progressive motility, curvilinear velocity, straight-line velocity, velocity average path, beat cross frequency, and lateral head displacement) in both Eth1 and Eth2 compared to the control groups and the combined-treatment groups (Eth1+SMI and Eth2+SMI). Furthermore, results showed a significant elevation in MDA concentration with a significant decrease of testicular and epididymal GSH concentration and GPx activity in theEth1 and Eth2 groups compared to the combined-treatment groups. The administration of SMI succeeded in improving the parameters cited above in the combined-treatment groups compared to the Eth1 and Eth2 groups, and bring them to the levels seen in the control groups. To conclude, SMI has clearly protected reproductive indices against ethanol-induced reprotoxicity in male rats