Photochemoprevention of topical formulation containing purified fraction of Inga edulis leaves extract.

Natural antioxidants have attracted attention for their therapeutic use as photochemopreventive agents. Inga edulis leaves extract and its purified fraction have high polyphenolic content and high antioxidant capacity. In addition, they presented UV photostability and low citotoxicity in fibroblast cells. In this context, this study first aimed at development of topical formulation containing purified fraction of I. edulis extract and the evaluation of skin penetration of the compounds. Moreover, the photoprotective/photochemopreventive potential of the formulation containing I. edulis purified fraction were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The topical formulation containing 1% of the purified fraction of I. edulis increased the endogenous antioxidant potential of the skin, and vicenin-2 and myricetin compounds were able to penetrate the epidermis and dermis. Additionally, the purified fraction (25 and 50 mg/mL) showed a photoprotective effect against UVA and UVB radiation in L929 fibroblast cells. In vivo studies have shown that the formulation added with purified fraction provided an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin of animals after UVB exposure, since it was observed a reduction in MPO activity, IL-1ß and TNF-α cytokines, and CXCL1/KC chemokine concentrations. In conclusion, the purified fraction of I. edulis, rich in phenolic compounds, when incorporated in topical formulation, appears as an alternative to prevent skin damages induced by UV radiation, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Recent patent applications for coffee and coffee by-products as active ingredients in cosmetics.

OBJECTIVE: Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide, and its production and consumption generate large amounts of by-products annually. Coffee by-products and coffee beans are rich in bioactive compounds of great commercial value, including potential applications as active ingredients in skin care products and cosmetic formulations. In addition, there has been growing interest in the use of natural ingredients for cosmetic purposes. Considering the importance of coffee in the world economy, its chemical constituents with potential for cosmetic and dermatological application, and the importance of patents for innovation and technological development, the present study aimed to review recent patents involving coffee and coffee by-product use in cosmetics. METHODS: This review was carried out using Espacenet. The following inclusion criteria were established: patents that included the terms "coffee" and "skin" in the title, abstract and claims and belonged to the classification A61Q, which is related to the "specific use of cosmetics or similar toilet preparations" considering the International Patent Classification (IPC) or Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC). RESULTS: Considering the 52 patents analysed, the bean was the main way to obtain extracts (39), followed by green beans (7), silverskin (3), peel and pulp (1), pulp (1) and beans and leaves (1). The formulations are mainly intended for use in nonspecific areas of skin (29), eye areas (12), scalp hair (9) and lip skin (2) with claims of anti-ageing, moisturizers, sun protection, hair growth, anti-dandruff, etc. CONCLUSION: Coffee and its residues have high amounts of phenolic compounds, caffeine, fatty acids and other substances known to have important biological properties for the skin. Coffee and its by-products are promising ingredients to be incorporated into topical formulations, ensuring skin health benefits and reducing the environmental impact.

OBJECTIF: Le café est l'une des boissons les plus consommées dans le monde, et sa production et sa consommation génèrent chaque année de grandes quantités de sous-produits. Les sous-produits du café et les grains de café sont riches en composés bioactifs d'une grande valeur commerciale, y compris des applications potentielles en tant qu'ingrédients actifs dans les produits de soins de la peau et les formulations cosmétiques. De plus, il y a eu un intérêt croissant pour l'utilisation d'ingrédients naturels à des fins cosmétiques. Compte tenu de l'importance du café dans l'économie mondiale, de ses constituants chimiques ayant un potentiel d'application cosmétique et dermatologique, et de l'importance des brevets pour l'innovation et le développement technologique, la présente étude visait à examiner les brevets récents concernant l'utilisation du café et des sous-produits du café dans les cosmétiques. MÉTHODES: Cette revue a été réalisée à l'aide d'Espacenet. Les critères d'inclusion suivants ont été établis: les brevets qui incluaient les termes "café" et "peau" dans le titre, l'abrégé et les revendications et appartenaient à la classification A61Q, qui est liée à "l'utilisation spécifique de cosmétiques ou de préparations de toilette similaires" compte tenu de la Classification internationale des brevets ou Classification coopérative des brevets. RÉSULTATS: Considérant les 52 brevets analysés, le grain était le principal moyen d'obtenir des extraits (39), suivi du grain vert (7), du silverskin (3), de la peau et de la pulpe (1), de la pulpe (1) et des grains et des feuilles (1). Les formulations sont principalement destinées à être utilisées dans des zones non spécifiques de la peau (29), des yeux (12), des cheveux du cuir chevelu (9) et de la peau des lèvres (2) avec des revendications anti-âge, hydratantes, protection solaire, croissance des cheveux, antipelliculaire, etc. CONCLUSION: Le café et ses résidus contiennent de grandes quantités de composés phénoliques, de caféine, d'acides gras et d'autres substances connues pour avoir des propriétés biologiques importantes pour la peau. Le café et ses sous-produits sont des ingrédients prometteurs à incorporer dans des formulations topiques, garantissant des bienfaits pour la santé de la peau et réduisant l'impact environnemental.

Chemical characterisation by UPLC-Q-ToF-MS/MS and antibacterial potential of Coffea arabica L. leaves: A coffee by-product.

INTRODUCTION: Coffea arabica L. leaves are considered a by-product of the coffee industry however they are sources of several bioactive compounds. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and the in vitro antibacterial activity of the lyophilised ethanol extract of arabica coffee leaves (EE-CaL). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The chemical characterisation of EE-CaL was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-ToF-MS/MS). The in vitro antibacterial effect of EE-CaL was evaluated using the broth microdilution method and the adapted drop plate agar method to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), respectively. RESULTS: The chemical analysis of EE-CaL revealed the presence of compounds from the alkaloid class, such as trigonelline and caffeine, in addition to the phenolic compounds such as quinic acid, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, caffeic acid-O-hexoside, mangiferin, (epi)catechin, (epi)catechin monoglucoside and procyanidin trimer. Regarding the antibacterial potential, EE-CaL was active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, being more effective against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) (MIC = 2500 µg/mL and bactericidal effect). CONCLUSION: The results of this research suggest that coffee leaves, a by-product, possess compounds with antibacterial properties. Thus, further studies with coffee leaf extracts must be carried out to relate the compounds present in the extract with the antibacterial activity and find the mechanisms of action of this extract against bacteria.

Evaluation of synergism and development of a formulation with thymol, carvacrol and eugenol for Rhipicephalus microplus control.

The acaricidal activity of combinations of thymol, carvacrol and eugenol was evaluated on larvae and engorged females of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus. The first step assessed the compounds separately, in concentrations of 3.125, 6.25, 12.5 and 25 mg/mL. Then tests were performed with the compounds combined in the ratio of 1:1 at concentrations of 3.125 and 6.25 mg/mL, along with the control group treated with the solvent (3% DMSO). In the second step, combinations were tested incorporated in a formulation at the concentration de 6.25 mg/mL, using the larval packet and adult immersion tests. The associations carvacrol + thymol (3.125 mg/mL), carvacrol + eugenol and thymol + eugenol (6.25 mg/mL) presented synergism, while the other associations had an additive effect. In the experiments with formulation, all combinations caused 100% larval mortality, but the efficacy was under 15% against engorged females. Therefore, the combinations of thymol + carvacrol (3.125 mg/mL) as well as carvacrol + eugenol and eugenol + thymol (6.25 mg/mL) had a synergistic effect on engorged females, but when incorporated in the formulation, the acaricide activity was strong against larvae but weak against engorged females.

Acaricidal properties of the formulations based on essential oils from Cymbopogon winterianus and Syzygium aromaticum plants.

The cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, has caused serious harm to livestock raising in Brazil, considering the costs of controlling it, loss of revenue due to smaller production of milk and meat, and damage to leather, in addition to transmitting diseases. The use of medicinal plants is considered an alternative to the recurring resistance to chemicals. Due to the need for efficient alternatives with less environmental impact, this study aimed to develop contact formulations with essential oils from the Java citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) plants and to assess in vitro the effects in different stages of the tick cycle. In the present study, concentrations from 0.5-15.0% of the essential oils incorporated in the formulations were used. The ticks from different geographical areas were treated with those formulations, and their effects on the production levels of eggs, on the larvae hatching, and their efficiency on ticks were assessed. The obtained results were compared with other commercial acaricidal products. After the 20th day of treatment, the formulations with citronella essential oil had 2.09-55.51% efficiency, depending on the concentration of the oil incorporated. The efficiency of the treatment with formulations containing clove essential oil was higher, from 92.47-100%. The results showed the acaricidal effects of the formulations tested when compared to commercial chemical products. In vivo studies should be performed in order to assess the efficiency of those formulations in the fields, aiming to use these products as an alternative for controlling cattle ticks.

Fruits as nutraceuticals: A review of the main fruits included in nutraceutical patents.

Fruits have relevant usefulness in the elaboration of nutraceutical compositions and, as it is considered a "natural medicine", its market has been growing exponentially each year. Fruits, in general, contain a large source of phytochemicals, carbohydrates, vitamins, amino acids, peptides and antioxidants that are of interest to be prepared as nutraceuticals. The biological properties of its nutraceuticals can range from antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, anti-Alzheimer, antiproliferative, antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, among others. Furthermore, the need for innovative extraction methods and products reveals the importance of developing new nutraceutical compositions. This review was developed by searching patents of nutraceuticals from January 2015 until January 2022 in Espacenet, the search database of the European Patent Office (EPO). Of 215 patents related to nutraceuticals, 43% (92 patents) were including fruits, mainly berries. A great number of patents were focused on the treatment of metabolic diseases, representing 45% of the total patents. The principal patent applicant was the United States of America (US), with 52%. The patents were applied by researchers, industries, research centers and institutes. It is important to highlight that from 92 fruit nutraceutical patent applications reviewed, 13 already have their products available on the market.

Adjusting RT-qPCR conditions to avoid unspecific amplification in SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in December 2019 and quickly spread around the world, forcing global health authorities to develop protocols for its diagnosis. Here we report dimer formation in the N2 primers-probe set (CDC 2019-nCoV Real-Time RT-PCR) used in the diagnostic routine, and propose alternatives to reduce dimerization events. Late unspecific amplifications were visualized in 56.4% of negative samples and 57.1% of no-template control, but not in positive samples or positive control. In silico analysis and gel electrophoresis confirmed the dimer formation. The RT-qPCR parameters were optimized and the late unspecific amplifications decreased to 11.5% in negative samples and no-template control. The adjustment of PCR parameters was essential to reduce the risk of false-positives results and to avoid inclusive results requiring repeat testing, which increases the costs and generates delays in results or even unnecessary requests for new samples.

Combination of thymol and eugenol for the control of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato: Evaluation of synergism on immature stages and formulation development.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the combination of thymol with eugenol has a synergistic effect on the immature life stages of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), to evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of using these compounds in combination, and to develop a formulation combining thymol with eugenol with activity on immature stages of R. sanguineus s.l. To evaluate synergism, thymol and eugenol, combined (ratio 1:1) or not, were tested at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 mg/mL on unfed larvae and nymphs using a larval packet test, and 0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5.0 and 10 mg/mL on engorged larvae and nymphs using an immersion test. A cost estimate was calculated to produce 1 L of a solution containing a concentration of thymol and eugenol, combined or not, that could cause a tick mortality rate greater than 95 %. Finally, a formulation was developed, consisting of a micellar dispersion containing polymers (MDP), with thymol + eugenol (1:1), at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 mg/mL, and the activity was evaluated on unfed and engorged larvae and nymphs. For unfed larvae and nymphs, concentrations of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL and 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg/mL, respectively, presented synergistic effects. In tests with engorged larvae and nymphs, respective concentrations of 0.625, 1.25 and 2.5 mg/mL and 2.5 and 5.0 mg/mL had synergistic effects. The estimated costs for producing a solution of 1 L with efficacy greater than 95 % was $5.97 using only thymol (15 mg/mL), $ 5.93 using only eugenol (15 mg/mL), and $ 3.97 using thymol + eugenol (1:1 - 5,0 mg/mL). In tests with MDP, the combination of thymol + eugenol resulted in a mortality rate higher than 95 % at concentration of 10 mg/mL for unfed and engorged larvae and nymphs. Thus, the combination of thymol + eugenol, depending on the concentration, has synergistic effects and this combination lowers the cost for the active ingredients thymol and eugenol. The combination of thymol + eugenol in MDP had acaricidal activity against immature life stages of R. sanguineus s.l.

Entomopathogenic nematodes in pharmaceutical formulations for Rhipicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) control: In vitro evaluation of compatibility, thermotolerance, and efficiency.

This work aimed to investigate candidate biological control agents against the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus by studying three entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) isolates from two species, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (isolates LPP30 and HP88) and Heterorhabditis baujardi (isolate LPP7). The study comprised the pharmacotechnical development of four test formulations, and their biological evaluation, in three stages: 1) selection of the fittest EPN isolate at 16 ± 1 °C after 120 h of incorporation in the formulations; 2) determination of the effects of temperature and incubation time on the survival of the selected isolate in formulations; 3) evaluation of the in vitro efficacy (infectivity) of the selected EPN formulations and their components against R. microplus females after 72 h exposure. H. baujardi LPP7 presented the highest survival rates in 0.1% carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC) formulations (100% at 25 °C, up to 10 days after incorporation). At the highest tested temperature (34.2 °C), 54% of LPP7 survived for up to 72 h in CMC formulations. The infectivity of LPP7-containing formulation against R. microplus was 99%, reducing oviposition, egg production index and larval hatching. Considering the pressing need for safer acaricide products, incorporation of EPNs in pharmaceutical formulations is presented as a promising approach for the biological control of cattle tick infestations, potentially reducing environmental impact and resistance development associated with chemical acaricides.

A novel research model for evaluating sunscreen protection in the UV-A1.

The use of a broad spectrum sunscreen is considered one of the main and most popular measures for preventing the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on the skin. In this study we have developed a novel in vitro method to assess sunscreens efficacy to protect calcineurin enzyme activity, a skin cell marker. The photoprotective efficacy of sunscreen products was assessed by measuring the UV-A1 radiation-induced depletion of calcineurin (Cn) enzyme activity in primary neonatal human dermal fibroblast (HDFn) cell lysates. After exposure to 24J/cm2 UV-A1 radiation, the sunscreens containing larger amounts of UV-A1 filters (brand B), the astaxanthin (UV-A1 absorber) and the Tinosorb® M (UV-A1 absorber) were capable of preventing loss of Cn activity when compared to the sunscreens formulations of brand A (low concentration of UV-A1 filters), with the Garcinia brasiliensis extract (UV-B absorber) and with the unprotected cell lysate and exposed to irradiation (Irradiated Control - IC). The Cn activity assay is a reproducible, accurate and selective technique for evaluating the effectiveness of sunscreens against the effects of UV-A1 radiation. The developed method showed that calcineurin activity have the potential to act as a biological indicator of UV-A1 radiation-induced damages in skin and the assay might be used to assess the efficacy of sunscreens agents and plant extracts prior to in vivo tests.

Cecropia pachystachya Trécul: a promising ingredient for skin-whitening cosmetics

Abstract Because it promotes the lightening of pigment spots, tyrosinase inhibition is one of the mechanisms of depigmenting cosmetic products. Considering the adverse effects produced by synthetic depigmenting actives, the search for new therapeutic options is desirable, and plant extracts are possible candidates for hyperpigmentation treatment. Glycolic extracts of Cecropia pachystachya Trécul are, therefore, the focus of this study. Its chemical characterization, antioxidant activity, tyrosinase inhibition, and cell viability were evaluated. Glycolic extracts were obtained by macerating the leaves of C. pachystachya in grain alcohol and glycerin or propylene glycol. Both had a similar chemical constitution, the glycerin being more efficient in concentrating phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Analyses by UHPLC-MS detected quinic acid, chlorogenic acid isomers, proanthocyanidin dimers type B and C, catechin/epicatechin, orientin/isoorientin, isoorientin 2"-O-xyloside, vitexin/isovitexin, and rutin. 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid was then quantified was then quantified, with predominance in the extract produced with propylene glycol. These extracts showed a high antioxidant capacity by the method of DPPH, ß-carotene, and nitric oxide. As for depigmenting activity, both extracts were able to inhibit tyrosinase. Cell viability assay also revealed that the extracts could safely be used in concentrations of ≤ 125 µg/mL. Thus, this study demonstrated for the first time that the glycolic extracts of C. pachystachya have promising chemical and biological characteristics for the development of a multifunctional cosmetic with antioxidant and tyrosinase-inhibition activities

Evaluation of cell biomarkers as in vitro photoprotective assays for sunscreen formulations

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate cellular indicators, which change with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and can be used as parameters for measuring sunscreens efficiency. Methods: Commercial strains of L929 and HaCaT cells (skin dermis and epidermis, respectively), from the cell bank of Rio de Janeiro, were exposed to different doses of UVA (350 nm) and UVB (309 nm) radiation. The evaluation of the photoprotective potential of sunscreens was analyzed with cell viability, lipid peroxidation and ROS generation tests. Samples of sunscreen with SPF values ranging from 15 to 60 were applied to a quartz plate superimposed on the top of a microplate containing the cell culture, and then the system was irradiated. Results: The viability and lipid peroxidation of the two cell lines remained unchanged after exposure to UVA radiation. When exposed to UVB radiation, the reduction in viability and the increase in lipid peroxides were dose-dependent, that is, they varied from 3.15% to 95.4%, and from 1.2 to 42.7 nM MDA/pg protein, respectively, both for the L929 strain. The dose of 0.5 J/cm2 reduced by 41.4%±1.67 the number of viable cells, and the dose of 30 J/cm2 promoted the oxidation of 42.7 nM of MDA/pg protein. These doses were selected to evaluate the photoprotective effectiveness of commercial sunscreens. Sunscreens exposed to UVB rays could prevent the loss of cell viability (viability remained around 100% for higher SPF) and the formation of lipid peroxides (30 to 80% reduction of peroxide levels). None of the two cell strains, submitted to UVB radiation, formed amounts of intracellular ROS in a dose-dependent manner. Under exposure to UVA radiation, only the HaCaT cell line produced the largest amounts of ROS in a dose-dependent manner. After treating these cells with photoprotective formulations (20 J/cm2), the researchers observed a reduction in the amount of ROS formed. Conclusions: The parameters of cell viability and lipid peroxidation were promising to evaluate the photoprotective capacity of sunscreens against UVB radiation. The generation of ROS expressed in the HaCaT strain can discriminate the photoprotective potential of formulations against UVA radiation, as sunscreens reduced the formation of ROS. These results suggest that in vitro tests that evaluate the damage caused to cells can predict cellular indicators of the photoprotective effectiveness of sunscreens and contribute to minimize these tests in the initial phase of product research and development.

In vitro and in vivo photoprotective/photochemopreventive potential of Garcinia brasiliensis epicarp extract.

The damaging effects of sunlight to the skin has triggered studies that involve the synthesis and extraction of organic compounds from natural sources that can absorb UV radiation, and studies on polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can be used as photochemopreventive agents for reducing skin damage. We investigated the in vitro and in vivo photoprotective/photochemopreventive potential of Garcinia brasiliensis epicarp extract (GbEE). We evaluated the cell viability of L929 fibroblasts after UVB exposure using a quartz plate containing the extract solution or the GbEE formulation. The in vivo photoprotective effect of the GbEE formulation was evaluated by measuring the UVB damage-induced decrease in endogenous reduced glutathione (GSH), the increase in myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and secretion of cytokines IL-1ß and TNF-α. The in vitro methodology using fibroblasts showed that the photoprotective properties of the GbEE solutions and 10% GbEE formulation were similar to the commercial sunscreen (SPF-15). In vivo results demonstrated of the GbEE formulation in decreasing UVB induced-damage such as GSH depletion, an increased in MPO activity and secretion of cytokines IL-1ß and TNF-α. The results showed that the extract has great potential for use as a sunscreen in topical formulations in addition to UV filters.

Biotransformed soybean extract (BSE) inhibits melanoma cell growth and viability in vitro: involvement of nuclear factor-kappa B signaling.

Melanoma is recognized as one of the most aggressive cancers with a relatively high propensity for metastasis. The prognosis of melanoma remains poor in spite of treatment advances, emphasizing the importance of additional preventive measures. Isoflavonoids have become not only potential chemopreventive, but also important therapeutic natural agents. We evaluated the antiproliferative and proapoptotic properties of biotransformed soybean extract (BSE) in A375 melanoma cells. Previous analyses demonstrated that the concentration of daidzein, genistein and aminoacids/peptides present in BSE, fermented by Aspergillus awamori is much higher than in the non biotransformed extract (NBSE). Experiments comparing the efficacy of the extracts in preventing cancer cell growth showed that treatment (24 h) of aggressive melanoma cells (A375 and 451Lu) with BSE resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of growth and viability. In contrast, treatment with similar doses of NBSE failed to inhibit melanoma cell viability. Further studies in A375 cells showed that decrease in cell viability with BSE treatment (1.5-1.9 mg/ml; 24 h) was associated with induction of apoptosis. Immunoblot analysis revealed that BSE treatment resulted in induction of PARP cleavage, activation of caspase-3, -7, and -8 and increased expression of TRAIL and its receptor DR4. BSE did not activate the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in A375 cells, as no change was observed in caspase-9 expression. The expression of Bcl-2 apoptotic proteins such as Bid and Bax remained unaffected with BSE treated cells. Interestingly, we also showed that BSE treatment increased the phosphorylation and activation of IKK, IκBα degradation and p65/NF-κB translocation to the nucleus, and that stimulation of the NF-???B pathway was required for BSE-induced apoptosis of A375 cells. Our findings indicate that the biotransformation of soybean plays a crucial role in the extract anti-cancer effect observed in melanoma cells. However, further studies are warranted to define the active anti-cancer agent(s) present in BSE.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the sesame oil and sesamin.

Sesame oil is widely consumed as nutritious food, cooking oil, and in pharmaceuticals and food. In this study, the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of the sesame oil and sesamin were investigated. The sesame oil and sesamin reduced the number of abdominal contortions at the doses 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg. The first and second phases of the time paw licking were inhibited by sesame oil and sesamin (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg). After 90 min of treatment, sesame oil and sesamin increased the reaction time on a hot plate (200 or 400 mg/kg). Considering the tail-immersion assay, the sesame oil and sesamin produced significant effect after 60 min at the doses of 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg. After 4 h of application of the carrageenan, the sesame oil and sesamin were effective against the paw edema. The exudate volume and leucocyte migration were also reduced by sesame oil and sesamin. These results suggest that sesamin is one of the active compounds found in sesame oil and justify the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of this product.

Effect of ultraviolet filters on skin superoxide dismutase activity in hairless mice after a single dose of ultraviolet radiation.

Organic sunscreens may decrease their protective capability and also behave as photo-oxidants upon ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure. The present study investigated the effect of a cream gel formulation containing the UV filters benzophenone-3, octyl methoxycinnamate, and octyl salicylate on skin superoxide dismutase (SOD) after a single dose of UVR (2.87 J/cm(2)). The retention of these UV filters was first evaluated in vivo using hairless mice to guarantee the presence of the filters in the skin layers at the moment of irradiation. The in vivo effect of the UV filters on skin SOD was then assayed spectrophotometrically via the reduction of cytochrome c. The cream gel formulation promoted the penetration of the three UV filters into the epidermis and the dermis at one hour post-application. A significant decrease in SOD activity was observed in irradiated animals treated with sunscreen formulation. However, no effect on SOD activity in skin was observed by the isolated presence of the sunscreens, the formulation components, or the exposure to UVR. The sunscreens may have formed degradation products under UVR that may have either inhibited the enzyme or generated reactive species in the skin.

Official monitoring of the Brazilian Norm for Commercialization of Food for Nursling and Children of First Infancy, Rubber Nipples, Pacifiers, and Nursing Bottles - NBCAL / Monitoramento oficial da Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos de borracha, chupetas e mamadeiras - NBCAL

This work aimed to evaluate advertisement of baby food, rubber nipples, pacifiers and nursing bottles through newspapers as well as on TV, radio, and the internet, in order to check whether the 'Brazilian Norm for Commercialization of Food for Nursling and Children of First Infancy, Rubber Nipples, Pacifiers and Nursing Bottles' (Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras - NBCAL) has been complied. Samples of all the items above were acquired at discount and department stores to check whether labeling was in compliance with the NBCAL. The development of this research as well as the analyses of commercial promotion were carried out in Juiz de Fora - state of Minas Gerais, from May to July 2006, using convenient, non-representative sampling composed of 680 pieces of advertisement. The results obtained through descriptive statistics showed that 564 of the 680 samples analyzed, or 83.0 percent, did not meet the NBCAL. Irregularities were detected in 100 percent of the samples advertised on the media and found in hospitals and drugstores; in 70.1 percent of the samples purchased at supermarkets, in 37 percent of those from medical clinics and in 86.6 percent of those found on the internet. The evidences showed that monitoring must be carried out continuously and educational campaigns on the importance of breast-feeding for the full development of children must be addressed to mothers, the food industry and commercial establishments.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar propagandas e publicidades impressas de alimentos infantis, bicos, chupetas e mamadeiras, além das veiculadas em rádio, TV e internet, para verificar o cumprimento da Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância (NBCAL). Também foi realizada a aquisição de bicos, mamadeiras e chupetas em "lojas de 1,99" e de departamento, para a verificação de rotulagem de acordo com a NBCAL. O desenvolvimento da pesquisa foi realizado no período de maio a julho de 2006, no município de Juiz de Fora, MG, mediante amostragem não representativa, de conveniência. A amostra constituiu-se de 680 peças publicitárias. Os resultados foram analisados pela estatística descritiva. Das 680 peças publicitárias analisadas, 564 (83,0 por cento) não cumpriram a NBCAL. Foram encontradas irregularidades em 100 por cento das amostras captadas em rádio, TV, jornais, revistas, hospitais e farmácias; em 70,1 por cento das amostras captadas em supermercados; em 37 por cento das amostras captadas em clínicas médicas e em 86,6 por cento das captadas na internet. Concluiu-se que há necessidade de intensificar o monitoramento em caráter contínuo e que as ações educativas relativas à importância do aleitamento materno devem ser direcionadas para as mães, indústrias produtoras e empresas que comercializam alimentos infantis.

Ocorrência de larvas de Ancylostoma sp na areia de áreas de lazer de praças públicas no município de Juiz de Fora, MG, Brasil / Ancylostoma sp larvae in the sand of communal spaces in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil

A larva migrans cutânea é uma zoonose causada pela migração de larvas de Ancylostoma sp na pele de um hospedeiro não habitual. Neste estudo, foi avaliada a ocorrência de agentes de larva migrans em 16 praças públicas no município de Juiz de Fora, MG. Foram coletadas 64 amostras de areia das áreas de lazer entre os meses de outubro de 2006 e janeiro de 2007 para estabelecimento da freqüência de larvas de Ancylostoma sp, através de isolamento pelo método de Baermann modificado. A presença de larvas de Ancylostoma sp foi observada em 43,7% (7/16) dos bancos de areias das praças públicas pesquisadas.

Cutaneous larva migrans is a zoonosis caused by the migration of Ancylostoma sp larvae through the skin of an accidental host. We studied the prevalence of agents of cutaneous larva migrans in 16 communal spaces in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil. 64 sand samples were obtained during the period from October 2006 to January 2007, and submitted to the modified Baermann method for isolation of Ancylostoma sp larvae. Ancylostoma sp larvae were identified in the sand of 43.7% (7/16) of the communal spaces studied.

A propaganda de alimentos e a proteção da saúde dos portadores de doença celíaca / Food publicity and health protection for the celiac disease carrier

A doença celíaca é uma intolerância alimentar relacionada ao glúten. O tratamento consiste na exclusão do glúten da dieta. A Lei n° 10.674, de 16 de maio de 2003, obriga que os produtos alimentícios comercializados informem sobre a presença ou não de glúten. A advertência deve ser impressa nos rótulos, embalagens, cartazes e materiais de divulgação em caracteres com destaque, nítidos e de fácil leitura. O trabalho analisou o cumprimento da legislação vigente em 226 propagandas tipo folder de alimentos industrializados coletadas em estabelecimentos comerciais nos municípios de Juiz de Fora, Viçosa, Belo horizonte e São Paulo, no período de março de 2006 a março de 2007, utilizando-se da amostragem não probabilística de conveniência. Observou-se a predominância de amostras (n=221, 97,8%) em desacordo com a legislação. Concluiu-se que há necessidade de maior esforço para a implementação das ações de Vigilância Sanitária que resultem na promoção e proteção da saúde pública.

Celiac disease is a permanent food intolerance to gluten. The 10674 Act, from 16 May, 2003, states that commercialized food products must inform the existence or not of this ingredient in its formulation. The warning message must be printed on the labels, wrappings, posters, and publicity material, in bold, highlighted, and easy-to read manner. This work has analyzed 226 leaflet-like pieces of publicity of industrialized foods collected from commercial establishments in the municipalities of Juiz de Fora, Viçosa, Belo Horizonte, and São Paulo, Brazil, from March/2006 to March/2007, by means of non-probabilistic convenience sampling. A prevalence of samples mostly not in accordance with the legislation (n=221; 97,8%) was observed. More efficient sanitary surveillance is mandatory in order to promote protection of public health.