Mango peel as a potential enzyme inducer in Trichoderma harzianum: a strategy for cariogenic biofilm degradation and reuse of industrial waste

Water-insoluble exopolysaccharides (I-EPS) are a virulence factor for dental biofilms. It has already been demonstrated that mango pulp induces the secretion of glucan-hydrolytic enzymes in the fungus Trichoderma harzianum, and that they have an effect on I-EPS from young biofilms. Aim: Evaluate the effect of mango peel as an enzyme inducer in T. harzianum, and the effect of enzymes secreted on mature biofilms. Methods: Fractions of the peel (PL) and ethanol-precipitated pulp (PP) of Tommy Atkins mangoes were sterilized and added to a culture medium containing T. harzianum for induction of hydrolytic enzymes. After 192 h, the culture medium was centrifuged and the supernatant (enzyme extract) was used as treatment on S. mutans biofilms (n=9): a) NaCl 0.9 %; b) 0.12 % chlorhexidine digluconate; and c) extract of enzymes induced by PL or PP. Acidogenicity, bacterial viability, quantification of insoluble polysaccharides, and three-dimensional analysis of the biofilm by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed. Data were analyzed by ANOVA followed by the Tukey test (α=5 %). Results: The hydrolytic enzymes did not alter the metabolism or bacterial viability of the biofilm (p<0.05). Although the images obtained by SEM suggest some degree of matrix degradation, the quantification of I-EPS for the PL and PP groups did not differ from the control group (p>0.05), suggesting a slight effect on the disorganization of the mature S. mutans biofilm. Conclusion: The results suggest that mango peel fraction can induce secretion of mutanase by T. harzianum, however in an insufficient amount to generate significant degradation on cariogenic biofilm.

Alegação de propriedades funcionais aumentam a aceitação de muesli de aveia por consumidores / Functional claim increases the acceptance of oat muesli by consumers

Introdução: Mueslis de aveia contêm betaglucanas, uma fibra solúvel com propriedades hipocolesterolêmicas e hipoglicêmicas. Os benefícios do muesli de aveia podem ser alegados em produtos para atrair potenciais consumidores. Objetivos: Este estudo avaliou a influência de uma alegação funcional na aceitação de um muesli de aveia. Além disso, avaliou-se o efeito da aveia do muesli sobre as percepções de saciedade e humor. Métodos: Formularam-se dois produtos: muesli de aveia e muesli de flocos de arroz (controle), para a realização do estudo. Para os testes sensoriais, o muesli de aveia foi apresentado com duas codificações: uma com alegação de alimento funcional e outra sem alegação. Aos consumidores (n=160) foram abordadas questões sobre gosto, interesse de consumo e benefício antes e depois da degustação do mueslis, utilizando escalas hedônicas. Para entender os efeitos do muesli na saciedade e humor, foi realizado um ensaio clínico com 9 mulheres adultas saudáveis (aproximadamente 22 anos). Um desenho cruzado foi usado, com um período de washout de uma semana entre as intervenções. Os indivíduos preencheram um questionário de humor e saciedade usando escalas analógicas visuais antes e após consumir o mueslis no café da manhã. Resultados: O muesli de aveia com alegação foi apontado como o produto mais benéfico entre as amostras (p<0,05), apresentando maiores escores para gosto e interesse de uso. O consumo de muesli de aveia não influenciou o humor e a saciedade dos participantes pois não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre as intervenções (p>0,05). Conclusão: A alegação funcional influenciou a aceitação dos benefícios do muesli de aveia para a saúde dos consumidores.

Background: Oats-based mueslis contain beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber known for its hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic properties. The claim of these health benefits, oat muesli products may attract potential consumers. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of a functional claim on consumers' acceptance and attitudes toward oat muesli. Additionally, the study evaluated the effects of muesli containing oats on satiety and mood perceptions. Methods: Two muesli products were formulated: one with oats and another with rice flakes (control) for sensory analysis. The oat muesli was presented with two codings (n=160): one with a functional food claim and another without the claim. Consumers were asked about their liking, interest in usage, and perceived benefits before and after tasting the mueslis using hedonic scales. Furthermore, a clinical trial was conducted with 9 healthy adult women subjects (average age 22 years) in a crossover design with a one-week washout period between interventions. The subjects completed a self-perceived mood and satiety questionnaire using visual analog scales (VAS) at Results: The oat muesli with the functional claim was perceived as the most beneficial product among the samples (p<0.05), receiving high scores for liking and interest in use. However, oat muesli consumption did not significantly influence participants' average mood and satiety during the trial (p>0.05), as no significant differences between interventions were found. Conclusion: The inclusion of a functional claim positively affected the acceptance of the health benefits associated with oat muesli.

Effect of oat beta-glucans on blood levels of lipids, glucose and inflammatory factors in participants with hyperlipemia/hyperglycemia: an exploratory, prospective, single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study / 中华临床营养杂志

Objective:To investigate the impact of oat beta-glucans on blood levels of lipids, glucose, and inflammatory factors in patients with hyperlipemia/hyperglycemia.Methods:A total of 120 patients with hyperlipemia/hyperglycemia were randomized into intervention ( n = 60) and control groups ( n = 60). In addition to the routine nutritional consultation, two groups received oral oat beta-glucan at 3 g/d (intervention) or lotus root powder at 3 g/d (control), respectively. Blood levels of lipids, glucose, insulin and inflammatory factors, body composition and bowel movement were compared between the two groups after 12 weeks of study intervention. The treatment effect was represented by intention-to-treat analysis. Results:A total of 109 participants completed the study. The total cholesterol [(5.18±0.69) mmol/L vs (5.25±0.88) mmol/L, P=0.024] and fasting plasma glucose [(5.50±0.82) mmol/L vs (5.98±1.33) mmol/L, P=0.002] in the intervention group were significantly decreased compared with the control group. Conclusion:Oral oat beta-glucans could decrease the total cholesterol and fasting plasma glucose in participants with mild hyperlipemia/hyperglycemia.

Yeast culture in the diet of feedlot steers: performance, carcass traits and feeding behavior / Cultura de leveduras na dieta de novilhos confinados: desempenho, características da carcaça e comportamento ingestivo

This study aimed to evaluate the performance, apparent digestibility of diet, ingestive behavior which occurred in two moments, carcass traits, being evaluated constituent and non-carcass components, and also the effect the yeast culture could promote in the peripheral temperature of rumen, hull and body temperature. The diets consisted of a constant ratio of 50% forage (maize silage) and 50% concentrate. Thirty-six steers, ½ Angus Nelore, with average age of 11 months and average initial body weight of 339.5±10kg were used in the experiment. The inclusion of yeast culture promoted a higher daily dry matter intake (8.83 vs 9.35kg day-1) and, consequently, a better daily weight gain (1,143 vs. 1,325kg day-1) in the initial feedlot phase, with no difference in other periods. The apparent digestibility of the diet containing yeast culture was higher than the control diet (69.69 versus 68.32%, respectively), and its use did not interfere with the feeding behavior of the animals. Based on our findings, supplementation with yeast culture may bring positive results in the initial feedlot phase.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho; a digestibilidade aparente da dieta; o comportamento oral ingestivo, o qual ocorreu em dois momentos, as características de carcaça, sendo avaliados componentes integrantes e não integrantes da carcaça; bem como o efeito que a cultura de leveduras pudesse promover perante a temperatura periférica de rúmen, casco e temperatura corpórea, sendo aferida por meio da temperatura retal. As dietas foram constituídas em uma constante relação de 50% de volumoso (silagem de milho) e 50% de concentrado. Utilizaram-se no experimento 36 novilhos, ½ sangue Angus Nelore, com idade média de 11 meses e peso vivo médio inicial de 339,5 ± 10kg. O uso de cultura de leveduras promoveu maior consumo diário de matéria seca (8,83 contra 9,35 kg dia-1) e consequentemente melhor ganho de peso diário (1,143 contra 1,325kg dia-1) na fase inicial do confinamento, não havendo diferença nos demais períodos. A digestibilidade aparente da dieta que continha cultura de leveduras foi superior à da dieta controle (69,69 contra 68,32%, respectivamente), e seu uso não interferiu no comportamento ingestivo dos animais. Com base nos resultados do presente estudo, a suplementação com cultura de leveduras pode trazer resultados positivos na fase inicial de confinamento.(AU)

Role of the consumption of fucoidans and beta-glucans on human health: an update of the literature / Rol del consumo de fucoidanos y betaglucanos en la salud humana: artículo de actualización

ABSTRACT Bioactive compounds are substances present in low doses in foods mostly from the plant kingdom. Their consumption can influence physiological or cellular processes and has a beneficial effect on health. Fucoidans and beta-glucans are bioactive compounds that share the characteristic of being carbohydrates of the polysaccharide type, specifically of the soluble fiber kind. These compounds can be found in foods available in Chile and part of the Chilean diet; foods include, brown algae and some cereals. The concentration of these compounds in foods is variable, and depends on factors like season, cultivation, germination, and method of preparation and conservation. The current literature shows the potential beneficial effects of fucoidan and beta-glucans compounds in human health, which include: anticoagulant, immuno-modulator and antidiabetic and immunomodulating. The effects depend, among other factors, on their bioavailability and molecular weight. The objective of this review was to describe the potential beneficial effects of these bioactive compounds, analyze their characteristics and properties, and provide consumption recommendations that may lead to achieving the expected beneficial effects. To that end, relevant and recent scientific literature was analyzed.

RESUMEN Los compuestos bioactivos corresponden a aquellos elementos presentes en los alimentos, que influyen en procesos fisiológicos o celulares, cuyo consumo produce un efecto beneficioso para la salud, encontrándose en alimentos principalmente del reino vegetal y cuyas concentraciones en los alimentos son en mínimas dosis. Los fucoidanos y los beta-glucanos, son compuestos bioactivos que comparten la característica de ser un carbohidrato, de tipo polisacárido, específicamente fibra de tipo soluble, encontrándose presente en alimentos disponibles en nuestro país y que son parte de nuestra dieta, como las algas pardas y algunos cereales. La concentración de estos compuestos en los alimentos, es fluctuante y depende de factores como la estacionalidad, cultivo, germinación, método de preparación y conservación. En la bibliografía actual, se evidencian los potenciales efectos beneficiosos de fucanos y beta-glucanos para la salud humana como anticoagulante, antidiabético e inmunomodulador, la intensidad de estos efectos dependen de su biodisponibilidad y del peso molecular. El objetivo de esta revisión fué profundizar respecto a los potenciales efectos beneficiosos de estos compuestos bioactivos, analizar sus características, propiedades, además de relacionar una recomendación de consumo que permita alcanzar los efectos beneficiosos esperados. Para ello se analizó la bibliografía científica atingente, relevante y reciente.

In vivo investigation of antimicrobial effects of cinnamaldehyde using immunosuppressed ICR mice with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Invasive pulmonary Aspergillus infection has the characteristics of high morbidity, difficult to be treated, poor prognosis and high mortality. This study aims to investigate the effects of cinnamaldehyde on 1,3-β-D-glucans in the pulmonary Aspergillus fumigatus cell wall to provide a basis for developing novel antifungal drugs. Methods: Immunosuppressed ICR mice were intranasally inoculated with 50 µL of A. fumigatus suspension (1 × 107 CFU/mL) and then separated into two groups, for the experimental group cinnamaldehyde was orally administered at 240 mg/kg/d consecutively for 14 d. While for the control group, voriconazole was used to treat the fungus infection. Pulmonary tissues were then extracted for 1,3-β-D-glucans assay and electron microscopy. Results: The concentration of 1,3-β-D-glucans was significantly different between the cinnamaldehyde and voriconazole groups, which was (1160.89 ± 364.96) pg/mL and (3885.94 ± 845.45) pg/mL, respectively (P < 0.01). Electron microscopy showed that 2−3 outer layers (1,3-β-D-glucan layer) of A. fumigatus cell wall were damaged and fell off, resulting in serious defect of the cell wall, but the cell membrane was clear and intact. Conclusion: Cinnamaldehyde has a significant influence on the integrity of 1,3-β-D-glucans in the pulmonary A. fumigatus cell wall, but the cell membrane is unaffected, suggesting that cinnamaldehyde has unique antifungal properties depending on its action against the 1,3-β-D-glucans on the pulmonary A. fumigatus cell wall.

ß-Glucanase Addition in Brewing Malt Produced by Reduced Time of Germination

Abstract The β-Glucans content has straight influence on the quality of malt and beer, mainly during the filtration step. Barley presenting high β-Glucan content demands longer germination time at malting. The application of commercial β-Glucanase is an alternative to accelerate the process and preserve the quality of malt. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of commercial β-Glucanase addition in malt produced within reduced germination time (64 h). Micro-malting was conducted with BRS-Caue and Elis barley cultivars at germination time 64 h and 96 h. The β-Glucanase concentration applied were 0, 25, 50 and 100 mg.kg-1. Barley, malt and wort samples were analyzed to check their physical-chemical features. Beers were produced with BRS-Caue malt and the physical-chemical and sensory attributes were analyzed. The commercial enzyme addition in BRS-Caue and Elis (64 h), at concentration 25 and 50 mg.kg-1, resulted in wort presenting proper β-Glucan content (≤ 178 mg.L-1). The beer produced with malt germinated for 64 h and added with 50 mg.kg-1 of β-glucanase was the one showing the largest number of physical-chemical and sensory parameters similar to the beer made with malt germinated for 96 h (conventional process). Commercial β-glucanase application in malt allowed accelerating the malting process without affecting the quality of the malt for beer production.

Effect of cinnamaldehyde on 1, 3-β-D-glucans in cell wall of Candida albicans in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Invasive pulmonary candidiasis is a disease with high incidence, difficult treatment, poor prognosis, and high mortality. The present study analyzed the influence of cinnamaldehyde on 1,3-β-D-glucans in the cell wall of Candida albicans in order to provide a theoretical basis for the research of antifungal drugs. Methods: An immunosuppressed BALB/c mouse model with invasive pulmonary candidiasis was established by nasal perfusion of 50 µL of C. albicans suspension (107 cfu/mL). 1,3-β-D-glucans examination and electron microscopy were carried out. Fluconazole was used as the control. Results: Cinnamaldehyde was administered at a dose of 240 mg/kg/d for 14 consecutive days, and the measured value of 1,3-β-D-glucans was (1160.62 ± 89.65) pg/mL, whereas that of fluconazole was (4285.87 ± 215.62) pg/mL. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Electron microscopy observation indicated that the 2−3 layers outside the cell wall of C. albicans (1,3-β-D-glucans layer) were rough, deformed, and incomplete, although the cell membrane was clear and intact. Conclusion: Cinnamaldehyde demonstrated special efficacy on 1,3-β-D-glucans in the cell wall of C. albicans.

Relación de los mecanismos inmunológicos del asma y la contaminación ambiental / Correlation of immunologic mechanisms of asthma and air pollution

Resumen Introducción. Se calcula que más de 300 millones de personas alrededor del mundo padecen asma y se estima que para el año 2025 esta cifra se incremente a 400 millones debido a los contaminantes criterio. Sin embargo, dadas sus limitaciones, los estudios epidemiológicos son controversiales sobre la contaminación y el desarrollo de asma. Objetivos. Describir las diferencias y similitudes de la respuesta inmunológica de pacientes asmáticos y los modelos animales de asma alérgica después de la exposición a contaminantes criterio y elementos biológicos, para así identificar los factores inmunológicos relacionados con el desarrollo de asma. Materiales y método. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos sobre asma y los diferentes contaminantes criterio. Resultados. La respuesta Th2 es activada por la inhalación de ozono, dióxido de nitrógeno, azufre y la exposición aguda a material particulado, mientras que el contacto con ciertos tipos de pólenes y glucanos y la exposición crónica de partículas incrementa la respuesta Th1, la cual inhibe a la respuesta Th2 produciendo un "efecto protector". Conclusiones. La respuesta Th1 podría causar baja o nula asociación entre la exposición a contaminación y el desarrollo de asma en las diferentes ciudades, adicionando de esta manera otra limitación a los estudios epidemiológicos.

Abstract Introduction: More than 300 million people around the world suffer from asthma, and estimations indicate that this figure will increase to 400 million by 2025 due to criteria pollutants. However, given their limitations, epidemiological studies on pollution and its role in the development of asthma are controversial. Objectives: To describe the differences and similarities of the immunological response of asthmatic patients and animal models to allergic asthma after exposure to criteria pollutants and biological elements, in order to identify the immunological factors related to the development of asthma. Materials and methods: A systematic search was conducted in asthma databases and criteria pollutants. Results: The Th2 response is activated by the inhalation of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur and acute exposure to particulate matter. On the other hand, contact with certain types of pollens and glucans and the chronic exposure of particles increases the Th1 response, which inhibits Th2 response producing a "protective effect". Conclusions: Th1 response could cause low or no association between exposure to pollution and the development of asthma in different cities, which constitutes another limitation in epidemiological studies.

Osteogenesis of dextran sulfate/recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2/chitosan nano microspheres combined with coralline hydroxyapatite in repair of large segmental bone defects / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective To investigate the osteogenic ability of dextran sulfate/recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2/chitosan (DS/rhBMP2/CS) nano microspheres combined with coralline hydroxyapatite (CHA) in repair of segmental bone defects.Methods DS/rhBMP2/CS microspheres prepared by ionic crosslinking method were adsorbed into CHA by lyophilization.Seventy-two New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 3 equal groups after they had been made into models of bone defect at the right radius.The defects in the 3 groups were implanted respectively with CHA,rhBMP2/CHA and DS/rhBMP2/ CS/CHA.Another 18 animals served as a blank control group.Blood and bone samples were obtained at 4,8 and 12 weeks after implantation.The serum BGP was detected,and the bone grafts were scanned by micro-CT for calculation of volume ratio of the new bone.Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed after bone decalcification.Results All the 72 animals recovered well without any infection or graft exposure.Gross observation at postoperative 12 weeks showed that the DS/rhBMP2/CS/CHA group was the best in the quality,quantity and strength of the new bone,as well as in the healing of bone defects.The serum levels of bone gamma-carboxyglutamic-acid-containing protein at all time points in the DS/rhBMP2/CS/CHA group were significantly higher than those in the CHA and rhBMP2/CHA groups (P ＜ 0.05).Micro-CT scanning demonstrated obvious progress in bone formation,cortical bone and marrow cavity at all time points in the DS/rhBMP2/CS/CHA group which showed significantly faster bone reconstruction synchronized with material degradation and significantly higher volume ratio of the new bone than the other 2 groups (P ＜ 0.05).Histological examinations showed better morphology of mature cortical bone and new marrow cavity at all time points in the DS/rhBMP2/CS/CHA group than in the other 2 groups.Conclusion Since DS/rhBMP2/CS/CHA possesses a better mechanism of sustained-releasing rhBMP2 to induce bone formation because of its reticular and hole-hole-connected structure,it may perform better in repairing segmental bone defects than simple CHA or rhBMP2/CHA.

Development and characterization of pullulan-polymethacrylate free films as potential material for enteric drug release

ABSTRACT Free films of pullulan-polymethacrylate associations were produced by casting process to develop a novel target-specific material. For characterization, tests of water vapor permeability, swelling index, infrared absorption spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and mechanical analysis were performed. The polysaccharide concentration directly influenced vapor permeability and swelling, increasing the values of the latter up to five times when added in a proportion of 20% (per weight). The individual properties of each polymer were maintained, and chemical interactions were not detected. The films were found to be thermally stable and they had unaltered mechanical properties with the addition of the polysaccharide. The microscopic analysis revealed rugosity that was proportional to pullulan and disorganization of the polymer network at pH 6.8. These results suggest that this novel material has potential for enteric drug release because of synergism between pH and enzyme dependence.

Agrobacterium sp.-derived β-1,3-glucan enhances natural killer cell activity in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The present study investigated the hypothesis that a highly pure linear β-1,3-glucan produced by Agrobacterium sp. R259 enhances human natural killer (NK) cell activity and suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines. SUBJECTS/METHODS: In an eight-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 83 healthy adults with white blood cell counts of 4,000-8,000 cells/µL were participated and randomly assigned to take two capsules per day containing either 350 mg β-1,3-glucan or placebo. Six participants withdrew their study consent or were excluded due to NK cell activity levels outside the normal range. NK cell activity and serum levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and cytokines, such as interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured. RESULTS: NK cell activity and the serum levels of IL-10 were significantly higher from baseline to week 8 in the β-glucan group compared with the placebo group (P = 0.048, P = 0.029). Consumption of β-1,3-glucan also significantly increased NK cell activity compared with placebo after adjusting for smoking and stress status (P = 0.009). In particular, the effect of β-1,3-glucan on NK cell activity was greater in participants with severe stress than in those experiencing mild stress. However, the administration β-1,3-glucan did not significantly modulate the levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α and IgG compared with the placebo. CONCLUSION: The results showed that supplementation with bacterial β-1,3-glucan significantly increased NK cell activity without causing any adverse effects. Additionally, the beneficial effect of β-1,3-glucan on NK cell activity was greater in participants experiencing severe stress.

Beneficial effects of glucan against cisplatin side effects on the nervous system in rats 1

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To investigate the protective effect of Bg on cisplatin (CP)-induced neurotoxicity in rats. METHODS: Twenty eight rats were randomly distributed into four groups. The first group was kept as a control. In the second group, CP was given at the single dose of 7 mg/kg intraperitoneally. In the third group, βg was orally administered at the dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 14 days. In the fourth group, CP and βg were given together at the same doses. RESULTS: CP treatment caused significant oxidative damage via induction of lipid peroxidation and reductions antioxidant defense system potency in the brain tissue. In addition, histopathological damage increased with CP treatment. On the other hand, βg treatment largely prevented oxidative and histopathological negative effects of CP. CONCLUSIONS: Cisplatin has severe neurotoxic effects in rats and βg supplementation has significant beneficial effects against CP toxicity depending on its antioxidant properties. Thus, it appears that βg might be useful against CP toxicity in patients with cancer in terms of nervous system.

Relationship between Lipopolysaccharide,(1,3)-β-D Glucan and Disease Activity of Crohn’s Disease / 胃肠病学

Background:Lipopolysaccharide( LPS)and(1,3)-β-D glucan( BG)are involved in the process of Crohn’s disease(CD)by activating immune cells in gut to produce inflammatory cytokines. Aims:To investigate the relationship between LPS,BG and disease activity of CD. Methods:Sixty-eight patients with CD from April 2013 to July 2014 at Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital were enrolled,of them 41 cases were active-CD( A-CD group)and 27 cases were remission-CD(R-CD group). Twenty healthy subjects were served as normal controls. Crohn’s disease activity index (CDAI)and simple endoscopic score for Crohn’s disease(SES-CD)were used to assess the disease activity and severity. Serum levels of LPS,BG,ESR and CRP were determined,and their relationships were analyzed. Results:Serum levels of LPS and BG in A-CD group were significantly higher than those in R-CD and control groups(P all 0. 05). Levels of LPS and BG were positively correlated with CDAI,SES-CD and ESR(P all 0. 05). Conclusions:Serum levels of LPS and BG can be used to assess the disease activity and severity of endoscopic mucosal lesions in CD.

Aspergilose invasiva em pacientes imunodeprimidos: comparação entre as provas de galactomanana, 1,3 betaD-glucana, dados tomográficos e desfecho clínico / Performance of galactomannan and 1,3 beta-glucan enzyme assays in the serum and bronchoalveolar lavage and comparison with computer tomography scan for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised hosts

A aspergilose invasiva (AI) é a infecção por fungos filamentosos mais comum em pacientes imunodeprimidos, especialmente em transplantes de células tronco hematopoiético e neoplasias hematológicas. Objetivo: Geral: Estabelecer a comparação entre a dosagem de Galactomanana (GM), 1,3betaD-glucana (BDG) e dados tomográficos no diagnóstico da AI bem como seu papel no desfecho clínico. Específicos: 1. Verificar a sensibilidade e especificidade dos ensaios de Galactomanana e de 1,3betaD-glucana no soro e lavado broncoalveolar. 2. Comparar os resultados da galatomanana e 1,3betaD-glucana com os dados de imagem em pacientes com suspeita de AI. 3. Verificar a relação entre a evolução dos níveis de GM e desfecho clínico (óbito e sobrevida). Casuística, Materiais e Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo tipo coorte prospectiva, incluindo 398 sujeitos das diversas enfermarias de pacientes imunodeprimidos do HCFMUSP, sendo incluídos dois grupos de pacientes: 202(51%) AI e 198(49%) controles. Resultados: Dos casos, 18 (8,8%) tinham aspergilose provada, 28 (13,7%) provável e 158 possível (77,5%), de acordo a classificação de 2002 EORTC/MSG (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer / Mycoses Study Group). Os sujeitos submetidos ao TCTH eram 42,7%, com neoplasias hematológicas 37%, TOS 9% e outras doenças 11,3%. Os fatores de risco associados ao desenvolvimento da AI foram neutropenia, monocitopenia, uso de corticóide, presença de doença pelo citomegalovírus e rejeição ou doença do enxerto contra o hospedeiro. O fator de risco associado à evolução para o óbito foi a presença de AI. Foram observados bons desempenhos para a GM tanto no soro como no LBA com LR menores que os registrados na literatura. O melhor desempenho da GM no soro para aspergilose+provável ocorreu com LR de 0,35 com sensibilidade-S, especificidade-E, valor preditivo positivo- VPP), valor preditivo negativo-VPN) e área sob a curva-ASC de 54,4%, 73,4%, 50,8%, 76,2% e 0,64, sendo os valores superiores...

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) has become the leading infectious cause of death in immunocompromised hosts, particularly in subjects under SCTH and hematologic neoplasias. Objectives: General: To compare the performance of GM and BG tests in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAL) and computer tomography (CT) scans in the diagnosis of IA in immunocompromised hosts as well as their role in the patient outcome. Specific: 1. To analyse the sensitivity and specificity of Galactomannan and 1,3 betaD-glucan assays in the serum and bronchoalveolar lavage. 2. To compare the results of Galactomannan and 1,3betaD-glucan assays with CT scans in patients with invasive aspergilosis. 3. To analyse the relationship between the evolution of galactomannan levels and clinical outcome (death or survival). Patients, Materials and Methods: From December 2008 to March 2013, a prospective cohort of 398 patients from several wards of immunocompromised patients of Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo was included classified in two groups of patients: 202 (51%) with invasive aspergillosis (IA) and 198 (49%) control patients. Results: Considering 202 cases, 18(8.8%) were subjects with proven, 28(13.7%) with probable aspergillosis and 156(77.5%), with possible aspergillosis, according to 2002 EORTC/MSG (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group) criteria. The most common underlying disease were: HSCT (42.7%), hematologic malignancy (37%), SOT (9%), or other diseases (11.3%). The main risk factors associated with IA were neutropenia, monocytopenia, patients under corticosterois, presence of CMV disease, and rejection or graft versus host disease. The risk factor associated with death was the presence of invasive aspergillosis. Good performances for serum and BAL GM were registered with lower cutoffs in the present workin relationship to those found in the literature. The best cutoff for proven + probable...

ß-glucanos: ¿qué tipos existen y cuáles son sus beneficios en la salud? / ß-glucans: what types exist and what are their health benefits?

ß-glucans are glucose polymers (polysaccharides) of high molecular weight naturally present in the cell wall of various living organisms such as bacteria, yeasts, fungus and plants (mainly cereals like barley and oat). ß-glucans are GRAS and are currently used as texturing agents by the food industry. Furthermore, scientific evidence suggest that, depending on their physicochemical structure and source, their intake would be associated with health promoting effect such as the decrease of plasma cholesterol and the improvement of the glycemic index of the ß-glucan-containing foodstuffs. Accordingly, a health claim related with the intake of cereal ß-glucans and plasma cholesterol improvement has been accepted by the FDA in U.S.A. and by the EFSA in the E.U. For this reason, ß-glucans are increasingly used in the world for the development of functional foods. However, the effect of yeast ß-glucans on immune system stimulation is still discussed.

Los ß-glucanos son polímeros de glucosa (polisacáridos) de elevado peso molecular que se encuentran en forma natural en la pared celular de diversos organismos vivos como bacterias, levaduras, hongos y plantas (cereales como avena y cebada). Los ß-glucanos son inocuos y actualmente son utilizados por las empresas de alimentos como agentes texturizantes. Además, antecedentes científicos sugieren que, dependiendo de su estructura fisicoquímica y de su origen, su consumo se asociaría a efectos beneficiosos para la salud del ser humano como la disminución de la concentración plasmática de colesterol total y la reducción del índice glicémico de los alimentos que lo incluyen. Un mensaje de salud sobre consumo de ß-glucanos de cereales y disminución del colesterol ha sido aceptado tanto por la FDA de EE.UU. como por la EFSA de la U.E. Por esta razón los ß-glucanos están siendo utilizados cada vez más para el desarrollo de alimentos funcionales en varios países del mundo. Sin embargo, el efecto de los ß-glucanos de levadura sobre la estimulación de la respuesta inmune aún está en discusión.

Processamento hidrotérmico em escala industrial sobre parâmetros de qualidade em frações de aveia / Hidrothermal processing on an industrial scale on quality parameters in oat fractions

A aveia destaca-se dentre os cereais por seu teor e qualidade proteica, alta porcentagem de lipídios distribuídos por todo o grão e predominância de ácidos graxos insaturados, além de possuir altos teores de fibra alimentar, minerais e antioxidantes, responsáveis pelos efeitos benéficos à saúde humana. Devido aos seus constituintes, a aveia apresenta forte tendência à rancidez e, por esse motivo, faz-se necessária a inativação enzimática das cariopses. Na indústria, a inativação normalmente é realizada pelo tratamento hidrotérmico. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, estudar os efeitos do processamento hidrotérmico em escala industrial sobre parâmetros de composição química, atividade enzimática, β-glicanas e compostos fenólicos solúveis totais nas frações de aveia farinha, farelo e integral. O processamento industrial da aveia foi realizado em batelada com temperatura e pressão constantes e tempo de retenção na coluna de 37min e 110min. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, sendo os resultados submetidos à análise de variância e as médias comparadas pelo teste Tukey a 5% de significância. Os constituintes químicos das frações farinha, farelo e integral foram pouco afetados nos tempos de retenção estudados. O tempo de retenção de 37min se mostra mais adequado por ser suficiente para inativar as enzimas lipase e peroxidase e preservar os compostos fenólicos solúveis totais em todas as frações de aveia estudadas.

Oat stands out among other cereals because of its quality as high protein content, high percentage of lipids distributed throughout the grain and predominance of unsaturated fatty acids, in addition oat presents high contents of dietary fiber, minerals and antioxidants responsible for the beneficial effects to human health. Due to their constituents oats has a strong tendency to rancidity and because of this reason is necessary to enzymatic inactivation of caryopses. In industry, the inactivation is carried out usually by hydrothermal treatment. The objective of this work was to study the effects of hydrothermal processing on an industrial scale. Parameters of chemical composition, enzyme stability, β-glucan and total soluble phenolic compounds oat fractions (flour, bran and wholemeal) were evaluated. The industrial processing was carried out in batch with constant temperature and pressure and column retention time of 37min and 110min. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design and the results were submitted to analysis of variance and means were compared by Tukey test at 5% significance. The chemical constituents of the fractions flour, bran and whole were little affected the retention times studied. The retention time of 37min shown more appropriate for being sufficient to inactivate lipase and peroxidase enzymes and preserve the phenolic total soluble in all oats fractions studied.

Effect of rubusoside on cariogenic potential of Streptococcus mutans / 中草药

Objective: To study the inhibitory effect of rubusoside on the growth of Streptococcus mutans. Methods: S. mutans was added to each group, cultured in anaerobic incubator with constant temperature, and the pH value was measured and compared. Microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons method was used to test the adhesion and cell surface hydrophobicity. Centrifugation was followed, Bradford method and Neson-samogyi method were used to measure the total contents of protein and reducing sugar and to calculate the viability of glucosyltransferase (GTF). Anihrone method was used to measure the contents of water-insoluble glucans (WIG). Results: There were highly significant differences among the sweet tea groups, the experiment groups, and control groups on the pH value, adhesion, cell surface hydrophobicity, GTF activity, and total content of WIG (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Rubusoside has the strong inhibition on the ability of acid production, adhesion, cell surface hydrophobicity, GTF activity, and the synthesis of WIG of S. mutans.

Role of plasma (1-3)-beta glucan D testing in curative effect evaluation of pulmonary fungal infection / 国际检验医学杂志

Objective To investigate the dynamic change and the clinical curative effect evaluation of plasma (1-3)-beta glucan D (BG) in the patients with pulmonary disease complicating fungal infection .Methods The MB-80 miroorganism dynamic rapid de-tection system and fungi BG detection kits were adopted to detect plasma BG content before and after treatment in 87 cases of pul-monary disease complicating fungal infection and the controls .The sputum culture in the patients was performed before and after treatment .Results Plasma BG levels before antifungal therapy ,at 1 ,2 weeks after treatment in 87 patients were (162 .81 ± 70 .03) , (15 .89 ± 30 .88) and (4 .58 ± 7 .87)pg/mL ,which in the control group was (5 .62 ± 1 .83)pg/mL ,plasma BG level had statistical differences between before treatment and at 1 ,2 weeks after treatment in the patients with the control group (P<0 .05);Plasma BG levels between at 1 week after treatment with at 2 weeks after treatment and the control group had statistically significant differ-ences (P<0 .05) .Among 87 patients ,66 cases were positive sputum culture at 1 week after antifungal drug treatment and 9 cases were positive sputum culture at 2 weeks after treatment .Conclusion Continuously monitoring the patient′s plasma BG level com-bined with the sputum fungal culture results ,clinical symptoms and lung shadow in X-ray has certain clinical value to judge the anti-fungal effect .

Preparation and bone targeting effect of the epirubicin-oxidized dextran-alendronate compound / 中华骨科杂志

Objective To prepare a new bone-targeting drug of epirubicin-oxidized dextran-alendronate compound,and investigate the compound's bone targeting effect.Methods Based on Schiff base theory,we synthesized a new bone-targeted drug delivery system:epirubicin-oxidized dextran-alendronate compound.The physicochemical character was evaluated through ultra-violet (UV) spectroscopy,infrared (IR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy.The character of affinity to bone in vitro was evaluated through HA absorbing test and the affinity to bone in vivo was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy.Drug distribution in different organs and different time point were investigated through liquid chromatograph.Results There were typical physicochemical characters of dextran,oxidized dextran,Dex-ALN compound,EPI-Dex-ALN compound through UV spectroscopy,IR spectroscopy and 1H-NMR spectroscopy,showed successful preparation of the bone targeting drug.HA binding rates were 86.13％,13.91％ in epirubicin-oxidized dextran-alendronate compound and epirubicin groups respectively through HA absorbing test in vitro.Luminescence microscope showed luminescence located in cortical bone,cancellous bone of metaphysic,no luminescence was found in bone marrow in affinity to bone in vivo.Compared by EPI group,IOD value of fluorescence in EPI-Dex-ALN group was 2.7 times.In HPLC drug concentration test,we detected drug concentration in different organs during the period of 10 min,1 h,2 h,24 h,48 h after injection in EPI,EPI-Dex-ALN compound group.The maximum concentration was at 2 h,and tissue distribute was different in different organs; there was statistical difference during the period of 10 min,1 h,2 h,24h,no statistical difference during the period of 48 h after injection in bone tissue between EPI group and EPI-Dex-ALN compound group.Conclusion We successfully synthesized a new bone-targeting drug delivery system,which showed better bone affinity in vivo and in vitro,and had powerful targeting function.