Evaluation of berberine nanoparticles as a strategy to modulate acetylcholinesterase activity.

Researchers have concentrated efforts in the search for natural-based reversible inhibitors for cholinesterase enzymes as they may play a key role in the treatment of degenerative diseases. Diverse plant alkaloids can inhibit the action of acetylcholinesterase and, among them, berberine is a promising bioactive. However, berberine has poor water solubility and low bioavailability, which makes it difficult to use in treatment. The solid dispersion technique can improve the water affinity of hydrophobic substances, but berberine solid dispersions have not been extensively studied. Safety testing is also essential to ensure that the berberine-loaded solid dispersions are safe for use. This study investigated the effectiveness of berberine-loaded solid dispersions (SD) as inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE). Docking simulation was used to investigate the influence of berberine on AChE, and in vitro assays were conducted to confirm the enzymatic kinetics of AChE in the presence of berberine. Berberine SD also showed improved cytotoxic effects on tumoral cells when dispersed in aqueous media. In vivo assays using Allium cepa were implemented, and no cytotoxicity/genotoxicity was found for the berberine solid dispersion. These results suggest that berberine SD could be a significant step towards safe nanostructures for use in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Drug development, Brazilian biodiversity and political choices: Where are we heading?

The aim of this review was to (i) acknowledge structural advantages of natural products (NPs) for designing therapeutic drugs; (ii) emphasize how wildlife conservation is socially and economically necessary for scientific and commercial progress in Brazilian regions; and (iii) show how decisions by governmental regulations exert damaging effects on safeguarding of biodiversity. Natural products (NPs) from animals (e.g.: bufadienolides as marinobufagin), plants (diterpenes: casearin X and paclitaxel; triterpenes: betulinic acid) and microorganisms (depsipeptides: geodiamolides; antraciclines: doxorubicin) are the main source of oral drugs and have innate advantages for enteral and parenteral drug design, synthesis and combinational chemistry using novel techniques, including green chemistry. NPs possess high chemical diversity, binding flexibility to biological targets, chiral centers, aliphatic systems, hydrogen-bond acceptors and donors, and/or heteroatoms, and broad-spectrum pharmacological properties, including against malign disorders. Nonetheless, all Brazilian biomes and connected ecosystems have been systemically threatened since 2019 by the following fire, deforestation, monocultures, cattle raising, mining and/or oil spills mainly as consequence of financial cuts in key institutions which oversee environmental stability for terrestrial and marine Brazilian fauna and flora. Nevertheless, natural chemical entities, broad traditional knowledge on agrobiodiversity, fishing, fire management, and pioneering processes of economic interest play a vital role for "Science of Biodiversity," which arises as business bioeconomy opportunities to convert Brazil into a self-sufficient country for production of pharmaceutical supplies, cosmeticsand foods. Hence, Brazil needs sustainable development projects supported by government and scientific input if one wishes to use the chemical and biological biodiversity to treat individuals and improve the quality of life.

In vitro and in vivo acute toxicity of an artificial butter flavoring.

Flavorings used in cookies, electronic cigarettes, popcorn, and breads contain approximately 30 chemical compounds, which makes it difficult to determine and correlate signs and symptoms of acute, subacute or chronic toxicity. The aim of this study was to characterize a butter flavoring chemically and subsequently examine the in vitro and in vivo toxicological profile using cellular techniques, invertebrates, and lab mammals. For the first time, the ethyl butanoate was found as the main compound of a butter flavoring (97.75%) and 24 h-toxicity assay employing Artemia salina larvae revealed a linear effect and LC50 value of 14.7 (13.7-15.7) mg/ml (R2 = 0.9448). Previous reports about higher oral doses of ethyl butanoate were not found. Observational screening with doses between 150-1000 mg/kg by gavage displayed increased amount of defecation, palpebral ptosis, and grip strength reduction, predominantly at higher doses. The flavoring also produced clinical signs of toxicity and diazepam-like behavioral changes in mice, including loss of motor coordination, muscle relaxation, increase of locomotor activity and intestinal motility, and induction of diarrhea, with deaths occurring after 48 h exposure. This substance fits into category 3 of the Globally Harmonized System. Data demonstrated that butter flavoring altered the emotional state in Swiss mice and disrupted intestinal motility, which may be a result of neurochemical changes or direct lesions in the central/peripheral nervous systems.

Cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of the food additive tartrazine on eukaryotic cells.

BACKGROUND: Among the food additives used in the food industry, food dyes are considered the most toxic. For instance, tartrazine (TRZ) is a food colorant commercially available with conflicting data regarding its cytotoxic, genotoxic, and mutagenic effects. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and mutagenic potential of TRZ using different eukaryotic cells (in vitro). METHODS: This study employed 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), brine shrimp lethality, Allium cepa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae tests. Different concentrations of TRZ and different exposure times were used in this study. RESULTS: The results demonstrate that TRZ induced a concentration-dependent toxic effect on the test systems. It also exerted cytotoxicity in fibroblasts and human gastric cells. In addition, TRZ showed mutagenic effects on the A. cepa test system. However, its toxicogenic effects may not relate to the oxidizing activity, which was confirmed by the S. cerevisiae test model. CONCLUSION: Taken together, TRZ exerted toxicogenic effects on the test systems. Therefore, it may be harmful to health, especially its prolonged use may trigger carcinogenesis.

Antimitotic and toxicogenetic action of Stevia urticifolia aerial parts on proliferating vegetal and mammalian cells: in vitro and in vivo traditional and replacement methods.

Stevia urticifolia Thunb. is an underexploited herb possessing bioactive flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids. The aim of this study was to examine the antiproliferative and toxicogenetic properties of the ethyl acetate extract from Stevia urticifolia aerial parts (EtAcSur) upon Artemia salina, erythrocytes, Allium cepa and sarcoma 180 cells and fibroblasts, as well as in vivo studies on mice to determine systemic, macroscopic, and behavioral alterations and bone marrow chromosomal damage. The assessment using A. salina larvae and mouse blood cells revealed LC50 and EC50 values of 68.9 and 113.6 µg/ml, respectively. Root growth and mitosis were inhibited by EtAcSur, and chromosomal aberrations were detected only at 100 µg/ml. EtAcSur exhibited potent concentration-dependent viability reduction of S180 and L-929 cells and antioxidant capacity employing ABTS• and DPPH•. No previous in vivo studies were performed before with the EtAcSur. Signals of acute toxicity were not observed at 300 mg/kg. Physiological and toxicological investigations at 25 and 50 mg/mg/day i.p. for 8 days did not markedly change body or organ relative weights, nor patterns of spontaneous locomotor and exploratory activities. In contrast, clastogenic effects on bone marrow were found at 50 mg/mg/day. EtAcSur was found to (1) produce toxicity in microcrustaceans, (2) capacity as free radical scavenger, (3) antimitotic, cytotoxic and clastogenic activties upon vegetal and mammalian cells, and (4) lethality on both tumor and normal murine cells indistinctly. In vivo damage systemic effects were not remarkable and clinical signals of toxicity were not observed, suggesting the significant pharmacological potential of S. urticifolia for the development of antineoplastic agents.Abbreviations: ABTS: 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid); DMSO: dimethylsulfoxide; DPPH: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl; EC50: effective concentration 50%; EtAcSur: ethyl acetate extract from Stevia urticifolia aerial parts; Hb, hemoglobin; IC50: inhibitory concentration 50%; LC50,: lethal concentration 50%; MI: mitotic index; RBC, red blood cells; Trolox: 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid.

Cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of industrialized powdered milk for infants and young children

This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity and determine the LC50 concentration of powdered infant formulas widely marketed in South American countries. To this, milk samples, called as A, B, C and D, were analyzed in root meristem cells of Allium cepa, at concentrations of 0.075; 0.15 and 0.30 g mL-1, for 24 and 48 hours; and through cell viability in culture of normal line cells, via MTT test, for 24 hours, in the concentrations 0.018; 0.0375; 0.075 and 0.15 g mL-1. In A. cepa, all dairy products in the three concentrations caused significant inhibition of cell division in the meristems within the first 24 hours of exposure. In the in vitro evaluation, all milk formulas at 0.15 g mL-1, as well as milk A at a concentration of 0.037 g mL-1, C at 0.075 g mL-1 and D at 0.037 g mL-1, significantly reduced the cellular viability of the cell culture exposed to the foods studied, being potentially toxic. The milk A was considered the most toxic, with LC50 of 0.031 g mL-1, and B as the least toxic, with LC50 of 0.15 g mL-1. Therefore, the milk evaluated caused significant instability in cells of the test systems used and were characterized as cytotoxic.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of enzymatic and antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of curcumin-loaded solid dispersions.

Curcumin, the main bioactive polyphenolic compound in Curcuma longa L. rhizomes has a wide range of bioactive properties. Curcumin presents low solubility in water and thus limited bioavailability, which decreases its applicability. In this study, cytotoxic effects of curcumin solid dispersions (CurSD) were evaluated against tumor (breast adenocarcinoma and lung, cervical and hepatocellular carcinoma) and non-tumor (PLP2) cells, while cytotoxic and genotoxic effects were evaluated in Allium cepa. The effect of the CurSD on the acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and monoamine oxidase (MAO A-B) enzymes was determined, as well as its capacity to inhibit the oxidative hemolysis (OxHLIA) and the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). CurSD are constituted by nanoparticles that are readily dispersible in water, and inhibited 24% and 64% of the AChE and BChE activity at 100 µM, respectively. GST activity was inhibited at 30 µM while MAO-A and B activity were inhibited at 100 µM. CurSD showed cytotoxicity against all the tested tumor cell lines without toxic effects for non-tumor cells. No cytotoxic and genotoxic potential was detected with the Allium cepa test. CurSD maintained the characteristics of free curcumin on the in vitro modulation of important enzymes without appreciable toxicity.

Cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of Ginkgo biloba L, in industrialized and without-additive forms / Potencial citotóxico e genotóxico de Ginkgo biloba L, nas formas industrializada e não aditivada

The toxic potential at the cellular level of industrialized Ginkgo biloba L. leaves was evaluated in meristematic cells of Allium cepa at concentrations of 0.1; 0.2 and 0.4 mg/ml. The industrialized products, from four pharmaceutical laboratories, were identified as A, B, C and D. Cell-level toxicity of dehydrated ginkgo leaf tea was also evaluated at concentrations of 0.15; 0.30 and 0.60 mg/ml. Dehydrated products were purchased from herbalists certified by ANVISA. The roots were exposed to teas and processed products for 24 and 48 hours. The results were submitted to the Chi-square test at 5%. However, industrialized ginkgo products at all concentrations caused antiproliferative effect. Also, the products purchased in pharmacies did not induce significant changes to root meristems. Therefore, industrialized ginkgo promoted cytotoxicity, however, they were not genotoxic to the bioassay used.

Avaliou-se, em células meristemáticas de raízes de Allium cepa, o potencial tóxico em nível celular de folhas de Ginkgo biloba L. industrializadas, nas concentrações 0,1; 0,2 e 0,4 mg/mL. Os produtos industrializados, oriundos de quatro laboratórios farmacêuticos, foram identificados como A, B, C e D. Também avaliou-se a toxicidade em nível celular de chás de folhas de ginkgo desidratadas, nas concentrações 0,15; 0,30 e 0,60 mg/mL. Os produtos desidratados foram adquiridos em ervanários certificados pela ANVISA. As raízes ficaram expostas aos chás e produtos industrializados por 24 e 48 horas. Os resultados obtidos foram submetidos ao teste Qui-quadrado, a 5%. No entanto, os produtos de ginkgo industrializados, em todas as concentrações, causaram efeito antiproliferativo. Ainda, os produto adquiridos em farmácias não induziram alterações em número significativo aos meristemas de raízes. Portanto, os ginkgos industrializados promoveram citotoxicidade, porém, não foram genotóxicos frente ao bioensaio utilizado.

Toxicity of the goji berry fruit associated with artificial excipients and dried without additives / Toxicidade do fruto goji berry associado a excipientes artificiais e desidratado sem aditivos

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of goji berry fruit-based pharmaceutical powders obtained from three pharmaceutical laboratories. The product A was tested at concentrations of 0.012; 0.025 and 0.05 g mL-1, and B and C at concentrations 0.02; 0.04 and 0.08 g mL-1. It was also evaluated the tea of the dried goji berry fruit (non-additives) in the concentrations 0.035; 0.07 and 0.14 g mL-1 for comparison to the results obtained with powdered goji berry. Tea concentrations in the two exposure times did not cause inhibition of cell division nor cellular alterations to meristem tissues. For the industrialized goji products, all concentrations analyzed caused significant antiproliferative effect to the tissues evaluated at the shortest time of analysis. There were no significant cellular changes in tissues exposed to industrialized goji. Therefore, under the conditions of analysis, goji berry powder, at the three concentrations evaluated, was cytotoxic to root meristems.

Objetivou-se na presente pesquisa avaliar, em células meristemáticas de raízes de A. cepa, nos tempos de exposição 24 e 48 horas, o potencial citotóxico e genotóxico de produtos farmacêuticos do fruto goji berry em pó, provenientes de três laboratórios farmacêuticos. O produto A foi avaliado nas concentrações 0,012; 0,025 e 0,05 g mL-1, e B e C nas concentrações 0,02; 0,04 e 0,08 g mL-1. Avaliou-se também o chá do fruto seco de goji (não aditivado), nas concentrações 0,035; 0,07 e 0,14 g mL-1, para comparação com os resultados obtidos do fruto em pó. Verificou-se que o chá nas concentrações avaliadas, nos dois tempos de exposição estabelecidos, não ocasionaram inibição da divisão celular e nem alterações celulares aos meristemas de raízes. Para os goji industrializados, todas as concentrações analisadas causaram efeito antiproliferativo significativo aos tecidos avaliados logo no menor tempo de análise considerado. Nenhum dos produtos industrializados causou número significativo de alterações aos meristemas analisados. Assim, os goji em pó foram citotóxicos ao bioensaio utilizado por terem acarretado relevante instabilidade genética aos meristemas de raízes.

Industrial milk powder in bioassays for evaluation of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity / Leites industrializados, tipo em pó, frente a bioensaios de avaliação de citotoxicidade e genotoxicidade

Considering the widespread consumption of milk powder by the general population as well as the lack of studies on the toxicity of such industrialized foods, this study evaluated the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of powdered milk from four reputed companies in the food market of Brazil and other South American countries. Milk samples were evaluated in root meristem cells of Allium cepa L., at concentrations of 0.065 and 0.13 g/mL, for 24 and 48 hours of exposure; and by means of cell viability in culture of cells of normal lineage, via MTT test, for 24 hours, at concentrations of 0.016; 0.032; 0.065 and 0.13g/mL. The concentration 0.13 g/mL was the one suggested for consumption in all milk packages evaluated in this study. In A. cepa, we observed that the milks, at both concentrations and at the two exposure times investigated, reduced the cellular proliferation of root meristems demonstrating a significant cytotoxicity. Furthermore, 0.13g/mL milks at the exposure time of 24h induced an expressive frequency of cellular alterations in the plant tissue, showing to be genotoxic. In the in vitro evaluation, three milks at 0.065 g/mL and all milks at 0.13 g/mL have significantly reduced cell viability, proving to be cytotoxic to the analyzed cell culture. Therefore, under the studied conditions, the powdered milks evaluated caused significant genetic instability to the cells of the test systems used.

Devido o amplo consumo de leite em pó pela população em geral, bem como, a carência de estudos sobre a toxicidade de tais alimentos industrializados, objetivou-se na presente pesquisa avaliar o potencial citotóxico e genotóxico de leites em pó provenientes de quatro empresas de reconhecida atuação no mercado de alimentos brasileiro e de outros países da América do sul. As amostras de leite foram avaliadas em células meristemáticas de raízes de Allium cepa L., nas concentrações 0,065 e 0,13g/mL, por 24 e 48 horas de exposição; e por meio da viabilidade celular em cultura de células de linhagem normal, via teste MTT, por 24 horas, nas concentrações 0,016; 0,032; 0,065 e 0,13g/mL. A concentração 0,13 mL/kg foi a sugerida para consumo em todas embalagens de leites avaliados neste estudo. Em A. cepa, verificou-se que os leites, nas duas concentrações e nos dois tempos de análise considerados, reduziram a proliferação celular dos meristemas de raízes demonstrando citotoxicidade significativa. Ainda, os leites na concentração 0,13g/mL induziram, no tempo de exposição 24h, frequência expressiva de alterações celulares ao tecido vegetal, mostrando-se genotóxicas. Na avaliação in vitro, três leites na concentração 0,065g/mL e todos na concentração 0,13g/mL reduziram significativamente a viabilidade celular mostrando-se citotóxicos a cultura de células analisada. Portanto, nas condições de estudo estabelecidas, os leites em pó avaliados causaram significativa instabilidade genética as células dos sistemas testes utilizados.

Processed fruit juice ready to drink: screening acute toxicity at the cellular level / Sucos de frutas industrializados prontos para consumo: screening da toxicidade aguda em nível celular

The present study evaluated the acute toxicity at the cellular level of processed juice ready for consumption Orange and Grape flavors, produced by five companies with significant influence on the food market of South American countries, especially in Brazil. This evaluation was performed in root meristem cells of Allium cepa L., at the exposure times of 24 and 48 hours, directly with marketed liquid preparations. Based on the results, it was found that fruit juices, of all companies considered, promoted significant antiproliferative effect to root meristems at the exposure time of 24 hours and resulted in at both exposure times, statistically significant number of mitotic spindle changes and chromosomal breaks. Therefore, under the study conditions, all juice samples analyzed were cytotoxic, genotoxic and mutagenic to root meristem cells. These results indicate that such beverages have relevant potential to cause cellular disorders and, thus, need to be evaluated more fully in more complex test systems, as those in rodents, and then establish specific toxicity at the cellular level of these juices and ensure the well-being of those who consume them.

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a toxicidade aguda em nível celular de sucos industrializados prontos para beber, sabor laranja e uva, de cinco empresas alimentícias de reconhecida reputação no mercado de alimentos em países da América do Sul, especialmente o Brasil. Esta avaliação se deu por meio das células meristemáticas de raízes de Allium cepa L., nos tempos de exposição 24 e 48h, diretamente nos preparados líquidos comercializados. Com base nos resultados obtidos verificou-se que os sucos de frutas, de todas as empresas consideradas, promoveram expressivo efeito antiproliferativo aos meristemas de raízes já no tempo de exposição 24h, e ocasionaram número estatisticamente significativo de alterações de fuso mitótico e quebras cromossômicas nas células do tecido analisado em todo o tempo de análise. Portanto, nas condições de estudo estabelecidas, os sucos das empresas avaliadas foram citotóxicos, genotóxicos e mutagênicos. Estes resultados são importantes em razão de indicarem que tais alimentos têm relevante potencial em causar distúrbios celulares e, portanto, devem ser avaliados em sistemas com testes mais complexo, como os em roedores, para, dessa forma, estabelecer com propriedade a toxicidade em nível celular desses alimentos e assegurar o bem-estar daqueles que os consomem.

Processed fruit juice ready to drink: screening acute toxicity at the cellular level / Sucos de frutas industrializados prontos para consumo: screening da toxicidade aguda em nível celular

The present study evaluated the acute toxicity at the cellular level of processed juice ready for consumption Orange and Grape flavors, produced by five companies with significant influence on the food market of South American countries, especially in Brazil. This evaluation was performed in root meristem cells of Allium cepa L., at the exposure times of 24 and 48 hours, directly with marketed liquid preparations. Based on the results, it was found that fruit juices, of all companies considered, promoted significant antiproliferative effect to root meristems at the exposure time of 24 hours and resulted in at both exposure times, statistically significant number of mitotic spindle changes and chromosomal breaks. Therefore, under the study conditions, all juice samples analyzed were cytotoxic, genotoxic and mutagenic to root meristem cells. These results indicate that such beverages have relevant potential to cause cellular disorders and, thus, need to be evaluated more fully in more complex test systems, as those in rodents, and then establish specific toxicity at the cellular level of these juices and ensure the well-being of those who consume them.

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a toxicidade aguda em nível celular de sucos industrializados prontos para beber, sabor laranja e uva, de cinco empresas alimentícias de reconhecida reputação no mercado de alimentos em países da América do Sul, especialmente o Brasil. Esta avaliação se deu por meio das células meristemáticas de raízes de Allium cepa L., nos tempos de exposição 24 e 48h, diretamente nos preparados líquidos comercializados. Com base nos resultados obtidos verificou-se que os sucos de frutas, de todas as empresas consideradas, promoveram expressivo efeito antiproliferativo aos meristemas de raízes já no tempo de exposição 24h, e ocasionaram número estatisticamente significativo de alterações de fuso mitótico e quebras cromossômicas nas células do tecido analisado em todo o tempo de análise. Portanto, nas condições de estudo estabelecidas, os sucos das empresas avaliadas foram citotóxicos, genotóxicos e mutagênicos. Estes resultados são importantes em razão de indicarem que tais alimentos têm relevante potencial em causar distúrbios celulares e, portanto, devem ser avaliados em sistemas com testes mais complexo, como os em roedores, para, dessa forma, estabelecer com propriedade a toxicidade em nível celular desses alimentos e assegurar o bem-estar daqueles que os consomem.

Are salty liquid food flavorings in vitro antitumor substances?

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antiproliferative, cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of salty liquid synthetic flavorings of Butter, Cheddar Cheese and Onion. The antiproliferative potential (2.9-1500 µg/mL) was assessed by MTT assay after 72h using the human tumor lines SF-295 (glioblastoma), OVCAR-8 (ovarian), HCT-116 (colon) and HL-60 (promyelocytic leukemia) and primary cultures of murine Sarcoma 180 (S180) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Allium cepa bulbs were exposed to growing respective doses (1 mL and 2 mL). Only Butter and Cheddar flavorings revealed cytotoxic activity on cancer cells, with IC50 values ranging from 125.4 µg/mL (Cheddar - HCT-116) to 402.6 µg/mL (Butter - OVCAR-8). Butter flavoring was the most cytotoxic on PBMC (136.3 µg/mL) and increased cell division rate in relation to the mitotic index but did not cause cellular aberrations. Onion and Cheddar flavorings reduced the mitotic index after 24h and 48h exposure, but only Onion flavoring resulted in cellular aberrations and mitotic spindle abnormalities, such as anaphase and telophase bridges, micronucleated cells, conchicine-metaphases and amplifications. So, Butter, Onion and/or Cheddar flavorings caused significant changes in the division of meristematic cells of A. cepa and presented cytotoxic action even on decontrolled proliferating human tumor cells.

Exposição ocupacional de trabalhadores rurais a agrotóxicos / Occupational exposure of rural workers to pesticides

Resumo Objetivos Avaliar o perfil dos trabalhadores rurais do município de Picos, no Estado do Piauí e suas práticas e atitudes quanto à utilização de agrotóxicos. Métodos A coleta dos dados (n=159) foi realizada em Picos com levantamento de dados socioeconômicos, utilização de equipamentos de proteção individual (EPIs), armazenamento e destino das embalagens de agrotóxicos, toxicidade e risco ambiental. Resultados A maioria dos agricultores era do sexo feminino (63%), não concluiu o ensino fundamental (55,6%), tinha entre 31 e 50 anos (55,3%), com renda de até um salário mínimo (66%) e possuía água encanada (84,3%). Quanto ao uso, 64,1% (102) utilizavam agrotóxicos, principalmente na agricultura (86,3%). Eles obtiveram informações sobre essas substâncias com vizinhos (44,2%), liam o rótulo para utilizar o produto (64,8%), usavam agroquímicos devido à ação rápida (81,4%), compravam em casas agropecuárias (87,4%), sem receituário agronômico (92%) e armazenavam embalagens dentro da própria casa (33,6%). Mais da metade não usava EPIs (56,8%), embora considerassem os agrotóxicos prejudiciais à saúde humana (94,1%) e ao meio ambiente (80,4%), além de 15% (24 pessoas) terem sentido algum sintoma de envenenamento. Conclusões Os entrevistados, em sua maioria, usavam agrotóxicos inadequadamente, tinham baixa escolaridade e conheciam sobre os riscos individuais e coletivos aos quais estavam expostos, mas não usavam EPIs.

Abstract Objectives To evaluate rural workers’ profile at Picos (Piauí, Brazil) and their practices and attitudes regarding the use of pesticides. Methods Data collection (n=159) was performed in Picos (Piauí, Brazil) to describe socioeconomic information, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), storage and disposal of pesticide packaging, toxicity and environmental risk. Results Most farmers were women (63%), with incomplete primary education (55.6%), age between 31-55 years-old (55.3%), income of up to a 1 minimum wage (66%) and with access to city water (84.3%). In relation to the use, 64.1% (102) use pesticides, especially in agriculture (86.3%). They receive information about pesticides with neighbors (44.2%), read label to use the product (64.8%), use pesticides due to their quick action (81.4%), purchase in agricultural houses (87.4%) without agronomic prescription (92%) and store packages indoors (33.6%). More than half do not use PPE (56.8%), though they consider pesticides damaging products to the human health (94.1%) and environment (80.4%) and 15% (24 persons) reported some poisoning symptoms. Conclusions The majority of the farmers use pesticides incorrectly, has low educational status and know about the individual and collective risks to which they are exposed but do not use PPE.

Toxicity at the cellular level of artificial synthetic flavorings / Toxicidade em nível celular de aromatizantes sintéticos artificiais

The goal of the present study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of artificial synthetic flavoring agents cookie and tutti-frutti. To this end, root meristem cells of Allium cepa L. were exposed to these substances in exposure times of 24 and 48 hour using individual doses of 0.3; 0.6 and 0.9 mL and doses combined as follows: 0.3 mL + 0.3 mL; 0.6 mL and 0.9 mL + 0.6 mL + 0.9 mL. After applying the treatments, root meristems were fixed, hydrolyzed, stained and analyzed a total of 5,000 cells using an optical microscope to evaluate each dose and combined treatment. All three doses of cookie flavoring and combined treatments significantly inhibited cell division of the tissue studied. Doses of tutti-frutti caused no change in cell division rate. In addition, doses of both flavorings and treatments combining these solutions induced cell aberrations in a significant number of cells to the A. cepa system. Therefore, under these analytical conditions, cookie flavoring and combined doses were cytotoxic and genotoxic, and tutti-frutti flavoring, although non-cytotoxic, demonstrated genotoxic action.

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a citotoxicidade e a genotoxicidade de aditivos aromatizantes sintéticos artificiais de biscoito e tutti-frutti. Essa avaliação se deu por meio das células meristemáticas de raízes de Allium cepa L., nos tempos de exposição de 24 e 48 horas, em que estas substâncias foram analisadas individualmente, nas doses de 0,3; 0,6 e 0,9 mL, e associadas entre si, da seguinte forma: 0,3 mL + 0,3 mL; 0,6 mL + 0,6 mL e 0,9 mL + 0,9 mL. Os meristemas de raízes foram fixados, hidrolisados e corados, e em seguida analisados em microscópio óptico, no qual se avaliou para cada dose e tratamento associado um total de 5.000 células. A partir dos resultados obtidos verificou-se que as três doses do aromatizante de biscoito e os tratamentos em associação inibiram significativamente a divisão celular dos tecidos em estudo. Já as doses de tutti-frutti não alteraram o índice de divisão celular das raízes em questão. Verificou-se também que as doses dos dois aromatizantes e os tratamentos em associação, induziram aberrações celulares em número significativo. Portanto, nestas condições de análise, o aditivo de biscoito e as doses associadas foram citotóxicos e genotóxicos, e o de tutti-frutti, apresentou apenas ação genotóxica.

Toxicity in food flavorings at the cellular level associated with each other at different doses / Toxicidade em nível celular de aromatizantes alimentares associados entre si em diferentes doses

This study aimed to examine the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of synthetic flavorings, nature identical, Chocolate, Strawberry and Condensed Milk. This evaluation was performed in root meristem cells of Allium cepa L., in exposure times of 24 and 48 hours and using doses of 0.2; 0.4 and 0.6 mL, in combination, in which one of the three doses of a flavoring was combined with a different dose of one of the two other flavor additives studied. Roots were fixed in Carnoy's solution, hydrolyzed in hydrochloric acid, stained with acetic orcein and then analyzed, under light microscopy, 5,000 cells for each treatment. For data analysis, it was used Chi-square test at 5%. All the treatments with combinations between the flavorings Chocolate/Strawberry and Strawberry/Condensed Milk reduced, in both exposure times considered, cell division of A. cepa roots, proving to be cytotoxic. In turn, the treatments with the association of Chocolate/Condensed Milk did not change significantly the mitotic index of the cells analyzed. The Strawberry flavoring was the most cytotoxic among the additives tested. None of the evaluated associations was genotoxic under the study conditions.

Objetivou-se nesta pesquisa avaliar a citoxicidade e genotoxicidade de aromatizantes alimentares sintéticos de chocolate, morango e leite condensado. Esta avaliação ocorreu por meio das células meristemáticas de raízes de A. cepa L., nos tempos de exposição de 24 e 48h e nas doses de 0,2; 0,4 e 0,6 mL, em associação, em que para uma das três doses de um dos aromatizantes associou-se uma dose diferente de um dos outros dois aditivos de aroma em estudo. Em seguida, as raízes foram fixadas em solução de Carnoy, hidrolisadas em ácido clorídrico e coradas com orceína acética. Analisaram-se, em microscópio óptico, 5.000 células para cada grupo tratamento, e utilizou-se o teste estatístico Qui-quadrado a 5% para análise dos dados. A partir dos resultados, verificou-se que todos os tratamentos decorrentes das associações entre chocolate/morango e morango/leite condensado reduziram, nos dois tempos de exposição considerados, a divisão celular das raízes A. cepa, mostrando-se citotóxicos. Já os tratamentos provenientes da associação chocolate/leite condensado não alteraram de forma significativa os índices mitóticos das células do tecido em análise. Foi possível inferir que o aditivo de morango foi o mais citotóxico dos aditivos em estudo. Nenhuma das associações avaliadas foi genotóxica nestas condições de estudo.

Toxicity in food flavorings at the cellular level associated with each other at different doses / Toxicidade em nível celular de aromatizantes alimentares associados entre si em diferentes doses

This study aimed to examine the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of synthetic flavorings, nature identical, Chocolate, Strawberry and Condensed Milk. This evaluation was performed in root meristem cells of Allium cepa L., in exposure times of 24 and 48 hours and using doses of 0.2; 0.4 and 0.6 mL, in combination, in which one of the three doses of a flavoring was combined with a different dose of one of the two other flavor additives studied. Roots were fixed in Carnoys solution, hydrolyzed in hydrochloric acid, stained with acetic orcein and then analyzed, under light microscopy, 5,000 cells for each treatment. For data analysis, it was used Chi-square test at 5%. All the treatments with combinations between the flavorings Chocolate/Strawberry and Strawberry/Condensed Milk reduced, in both exposure times considered, cell division of A. cepa roots, proving to be cytotoxic. In turn, the treatments with the association of Chocolate/Condensed Milk did not change significantly the mitotic index of the cells analyzed. The Strawberry flavoring was the most cytotoxic among the additives tested. None of the evaluated associations was genotoxic under the study conditions.

Objetivou-se nesta pesquisa avaliar a citoxicidade e genotoxicidade de aromatizantes alimentares sintéticos de chocolate, morango e leite condensado. Esta avaliação ocorreu por meio das células meristemáticas de raízes de A. cepa L., nos tempos de exposição de 24 e 48h e nas doses de 0,2; 0,4 e 0,6 mL, em associação, em que para uma das três doses de um dos aromatizantes associou-se uma dose diferente de um dos outros dois aditivos de aroma em estudo. Em seguida, as raízes foram fixadas em solução de Carnoy, hidrolisadas em ácido clorídrico e coradas com orceína acética. Analisaram-se, em microscópio óptico, 5.000 células para cada grupo tratamento, e utilizou-se o teste estatístico Qui-quadrado a 5% para análise dos dados. A partir dos resultados, verificou-se que todos os tratamentos decorrentes das associações entre chocolate/morango e morango/leite condensado reduziram, nos dois tempos de exposição considerados, a divisão celular das raízes A. cepa, mostrando-se citotóxicos. Já os tratamentos provenientes da associação chocolate/leite condensado não alteraram de forma significativa os índices mitóticos das células do tecido em análise. Foi possível inferir que o aditivo de morango foi o mais citotóxico dos aditivos em estudo. Nenhuma das associações avaliadas foi genotóxica nestas condições de estudo.

Counteracting effects on free radicals and histological alterations induced by a fraction with casearins.

Casearia sylvestris Swartz is a medicinal plant widely distributed in Brazil. It has anti-inflammatory, antiulcer and antitumor activities and is popularly used to treat snakebites, wounds, diarrhea, flu and chest colds. Its leaves are rich in oxygenated tricyclic cis-clerodane diterpenes, particulary casearins. Herein, we evaluated the antioxidant activities of a fraction with casearins (FC) isolated from C. sylvestris and histological changes on the central nervous system and livers of Mus musculus mice. Firstly, in vitro studies (0.9, 1.8, 3.6, 5.4 and 7.2 µg/mL) revealed EC50 values of 3.7, 6.4 and 0.16 µg/mL for nitrite, hydroxyl radical and TBARS levels, respectively. Secondly, FC (2.5, 5, 10 and 25 mg/kg/day) was intraperitoneally administered to Swiss mice for 7 consecutive days. Nitrite levels in the hippocampus (26.2, 27.3, 30.2 and 26.6 µM) and striatum (26.3, 25.4, 34.3 and 27.5 µM) increased in all treated animals (P < 0.05). Lower doses dropped reduced glutathione, catalase and TBARS levels in the hippocampus and striatum. With the exception of this reduction in TBARS formation, FC displayed only in vitro antioxidant activity. Animals exhibited histological alterations suggestive of neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity, indicating the need for precaution regarding the consumption of medicinal formulations based on Casearia sylvestris.

Perfil do uso populacional de inseticidas domésticos no combate a mosquitos / Profile of the population use of household insecticides against mosquitoes

Esse trabalho descreve a utilização doméstica de inseticidas pela população de Picos (Piauí, Brasil),identifica quais são os tipos de inseticidas mais utilizados e descreve a incidência de intoxicação e a consciência ambiental da população. Após visitas domiciliares (n=700), notou-se que a maioria dos entrevistados foi representada por mulheres (75%), com idade entre 31-55 anos (49%), ensino fundamental incompleto (38,1%) e renda familiar entre 1-2 salários mínimos (64%). A maioria das residências tem entre 1-3 moradores (48%), 85% dos entrevistados usam inseticidas escolhidos principalmente em propagandas de TV e radio e apenas 54% leem o rótulo antes de aplicar o produto. A forma de apresentação mais usada é o aerossol (70,7%). A maioria (79%) reconhece que inseticidas são maléficos à saúde, mas 74% não usam nenhum Equipamento de Proteção Individual (EPI). Sintomas de toxicidade foram relatados por 27%dos entrevistados. Duas mulheres relataram irritação, tonturas e problemas respiratórios e necessidade de intervenção médica e internação hospitalar. Todos os entrevistados descartam as embalagens como lixo comum, uma vez que em Picos não há coleta seletiva. Em conclusão, a maioria das pessoas usam inseticidas, conhecem sobre os riscos individuais e coletivos aos quais estão expostos mas não usam EPI mesmo acreditando que sejam tóxicos. Notou-se que aquisição de conhecimentos não resulta,necessariamente, em mudanças de comportamento, uma vez que o conhecimento não se traduz em atitudes e práticas preventivas adequadas, ressaltando-se a necessidade de campanhas de conscientização quanto à toxicidade e aos riscos ambientais, capacitação de profissionais e política fiscalizatória contra a venda indiscriminada.

This study described the use of household insecticides in Picos (Piauí, Brazil), identify which are the mostused types of insecticides and describes the incidence of poisoning and environmental awareness of the population. After home visits (n = 700), it was seen that the majority of respondents was represented by women (75%), with 31-55 years-old (49%), incomplete primary education (38.1%) and income between 1-2 earnings (64%). Most homes have between 1-3 residents (48%), 85% of the persons use insecticides mainly chosen in TV and radio and only 54% of them read the label before employing the product. The most used form of presentation is the aerosol (70.7%). Majority (79%) recognizes that insecticides are harmful to health, but 74% do not use any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Symptoms of toxicity were reported by 27% of people interviewed. Two women reported irritation, dizziness and respiratory problems and need for medical intervention and hospitalization. All interviewed discard the package as regular trash, since Picos does not has selective collection. In conclusion, most people use insecticides, know about the individual and collective risks to which they are exposed but do not use PPE, though they believe insecticides are toxic. It was noted that acquisition of knowledge does not necessarily result in behavioral changes, since learning does not translate into appropriate preventive attitudes and practices, emphasizing the requirement for awareness campaigns about toxicity and environmental risks, preparation of professionals and surveillance policy against indiscriminate sale.

Immunonutrition effects in the treatment of cancer patients and itscomplications - a review / Efeitos da imunonutrição no tratamento de pacientes com câncer esuas complicações – uma revisão

The aim of this study was to review and summarize the data from the literature regarding the effects ofpre- and postoperative immunonutrition in the outcome of cancer patients. The review was conductedthrough literature searches in databases such as Medline/Pubmed, Scielo and Lilacs, from July toSeptember 2014, for articles investigating the effects of immunonutrition related to nutritional recoveryand pre- and post-operative procedures in cancer patients. We found 32 articles, 27 of which met theinclusion criteria, including review articles, case-control studies, epidemiological studies and crosssectionalstudies. From this literature review it was possible to see the benefits of using preoperativeimmunomodulating diet in cancer patients undergoing major abdominal surgery, including reduction ofseptic and inflammatory complications during postoperative period and hence the hospital length of stay.Thus, the use of immunonutrition has been shown to be capable to reverse organic and immunologicalchanges caused by both malnutrition and the tumor itself in cancer patients.

O objetivou deste trabalho foi revisar, de forma sucinta e objetiva, as evidências disponíveis nos bancos de dados digitais, sobre os efeitos da imunonutrição para a resposta ao tratamento de pacientes com câncer em pré e pós-operatório. Foi realizada uma revisão de literatura, por meio de buscas bibliográficas nos bancos de dados informatizados Medline/Pubmed, Scielo e Lilacs, no período de julho a setembro de 2014, de artigos que investigaram os efeitos da imunonutrição na recuperação do estado nutricional e em procedimentos pré e pós-operatório de pacientes com câncer. Foram encontrados 32 artigos, dos quais 27 atenderam aos critérios de inclusão do estudo, compreendendo artigos de revisão, caso-controle,epidemiológicos e transversais. A partir desta revisão de literatura foi possível verificar o benefício do uso da dieta imunomoduladora em pacientes oncológicos submetidos ao tratamento no pré-operatório de cirurgias de grande porte abdominal, diminuindo complicações sépticas e inflamatórias no período pós operatório e consequentemente o tempo de internação hospitalar. Dessa forma, o uso da imunonutrição mostra-se com capacidade de reverter alterações orgânicas e imunológicas causadas tanto pela desnutrição como pelo próprio tumor em pacientes com câncer.