Exploring the Phytochemical Composition and the Bioactive Properties of Malbec and Torrontés Wine Pomaces from the Calchaquíes Valleys (Argentina) for Their Sustainable Exploitation.

Hydroalcoholic extracts from Malbec and Torrontés wine pomaces (Vitis vinifera L.) originating from the high-altitude vineyards of Argentina's Calchaquí Valleys were characterized. Total phenolics, hydroxycinnamic acids, orthodiphenols, anthocyanins, non-flavonoid phenolics, total flavonoids, flavones/flavonols, flavanones/dihydroflavonols, and tannins were quantified through spectrophotometric methods, with the Malbec extract exhibiting higher concentrations in most of phytochemical groups when compared to Torrontés. HPLC-DAD identified more than 30 phenolic compounds in both extracts. Malbec displayed superior antiradical activity (ABTS cation, nitric oxide, and superoxide anion radicals), reduction power (iron, copper, and phosphomolybdenum), hypochlorite scavenging, and iron chelating ability compared to Torrontés. The cytotoxicity assessments revealed that Torrontés affected the viability of HT29-MTX and Caco-2 colon cancer cells by 70% and 50%, respectively, at the highest tested concentration (1 mg/mL). At the same time, both extracts did not demonstrate acute toxicity in Artemia salina or in red blood cell assays at 500 µg/mL. Both extracts inhibited the lipoxygenase enzyme (IC50: 154.7 and 784.7 µg/mL for Malbec and Torrontés), with Malbec also reducing the tyrosinase activity (IC50: 89.9 µg/mL), and neither inhibited the xanthine oxidase. The substantial phenolic content and diverse biological activities in the Calchaquí Valleys' pomaces underline their potentialities to be valorized for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.

Adequacy of Fatty Acids Consumption Among Individuals in Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention. / Adequação do Consumo de Ácidos Graxos entre Pacientes em Prevenção Cardiovascular Secundária.

BACKGROUND: Adhering to a diet adequate in macronutrients is crucial for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of adherence to recommendations for the consumption of dietary fatty acids for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases and to estimate whether the presence of certain cardiovascular risk factors would be associated with adherence. METHODS: Cross-sectional study using baseline data from 2,358 participants included in the "Brazilian Cardioprotective Nutritional Program Trial". Dietary intake and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed. Adequate intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was considered as ≥10% of total daily energy intake; for monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), 20%; and for saturated fatty acids (SFA), <7% according to the Brazilian Society of Cardiology. A significance level of 5% was considered in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: No participant adhered to all recommendations simultaneously, and more than half (1,482 [62.9%]) did not adhere to any recommendation. Adherence exclusively to the SFA recommendation was the most prevalent, fulfilled by 659 (28%) participants, followed by adherence exclusively to the PUFA (178 [7.6%]) and MUFA (5 [0.2%]) recommendations. There was no association between the number of comorbidities and adherence to nutritional recommendations (p = 0.269). Participants from the Brazilian Northeast region showed a higher proportion of adherence to SFA consumption recommendations (38.42%) and lower adherence to PUFA intake (3.52%) (p <0.001) compared to other regions. CONCLUSIONS: Among the evaluated sample, there was low adherence to nutritional recommendations for dietary fatty acid consumption.

FUNDAMENTO: A adesão à uma alimentação adequada em macronutrientes é fundamental para a prevenção secundária de doenças cardiovasculares. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de adesão às recomendações de consumo de ácidos graxos para prevenção e tratamento de doenças cardiovasculares, e estimar se a presença de determinados fatores de risco cardiovascular estaria associada à adesão. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com os dados de linha de base de 2358 participantes do estudo "Brazilian Cardioprotective Nutritional Program Trial". Dados de consumo alimentar, e fatores de risco cardiovascular foram avaliados. Foi considerada, de acordo com a Sociedade Brasileira de Cardiologia, uma ingestão adequada de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados (AGPI) ≥10% do consumo total de energia diária, para ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (AGM), 20% e para ácidos graxos saturados (AGS), <7%. Na análise estatística foi considerando nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: Nenhum participante aderiu a todas as recomendações de forma simultânea e mais da metade (1482 [62,9%]) não aderiu a nenhuma recomendação. A adesão exclusivamente à recomendação de AGS foi a mais prevalente, sendo cumprida por 659 (28%) dos participantes, seguida da adesão exclusivamente à recomendação de AGP (178 [7,6%]) e de AGM (5 [0,2%]). Não houve associação entre o número de comorbidades e a adesão às recomendações nutricionais (p =0,269). Os participantes da região Nordeste do país apresentaram maior proporção de adesão às recomendações para consumo de AGS (38,42%), e menor para ingestão de AGPI (3,52%) (p <0,001) em comparação às demais. CONCLUSÕES: Na amostra avaliada, evidenciou-se baixa adesão às recomendações nutricionais para consumo de ácidos graxos.

Adequação do consumo de ácidos graxos entre pacientes em prevenção cardiovascular secundária / Adequacy of Fatty Acids Consumption Among Individuals in Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention

FUNDAMENTO: A adesão à uma alimentação adequada em macronutrientes é fundamental para a prevenção secundária de doenças cardiovasculares. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de adesão às recomendações de consumo de ácidos graxos para prevenção e tratamento de doenças cardiovasculares, e estimar se a presença de determinados fatores de risco cardiovascular estaria associada à adesão. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com os dados de linha de base de 2358 participantes do estudo "Brazilian Cardioprotective Nutritional Program Trial". Dados de consumo alimentar, e fatores de risco cardiovascular foram avaliados. Foi considerada, de acordo com a Sociedade Brasileira de Cardiologia, uma ingestão adequada de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados (AGPI) ≥10% do consumo total de energia diária, para ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (AGM), 20% e para ácidos graxos saturados (AGS), <7%. Na análise estatística foi considerando nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: Nenhum participante aderiu a todas as recomendações de forma simultânea e mais da metade (1482 [62,9%]) não aderiu a nenhuma recomendação. A adesão exclusivamente à recomendação de AGS foi a mais prevalente, sendo cumprida por 659 (28%) dos participantes, seguida da adesão exclusivamente à recomendação de AGP (178 [7,6%]) e de AGM (5 [0,2%]). Não houve associação entre o número de comorbidades e a adesão às recomendações nutricionais (p =0,269). Os participantes da região Nordeste do país apresentaram maior proporção de adesão às recomendações para consumo de AGS (38,42%), e menor para ingestão de AGPI (3,52%) (p <0,001) em comparação às demais. CONCLUSÕES: Na amostra avaliada, evidenciou-se baixa adesão às recomendações nutricionais para consumo de ácidos graxos.

Factors associated with diet quality among Brazilian individuals with cardiovascular diseases.

BACKGROUND: An individual's dietary pattern contributes in different ways to the prevention and control of recurrent cardiovascular events. However, the quality of the diet is influenced by several factors. The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of the diet of individuals with cardiovascular diseases and determine whether there is an association between sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study carried out with individuals with atherosclerosis (coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease or peripheral arterial disease) recruited from 35 reference centres for the treatment of cardiovascular disease in Brazil. Diet quality was assessed according to the Modified Alternative Healthy Eating Index (mAHEI) and stratified into tertiles. For comparing two groups, the Mann-Whitney or Pearson's chi-squared tests were used. However, for comparing three or more groups, analysis of variance or Kruskal-Wallis was used. For the confounding analysis, a multinomial regression model was used. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: In total, 2360 individuals were evaluated: 58.5% male and 64.2% elderly. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) of the mAHEI was 24.0 (20.0-30.0), ranging from 0.4 to 56.0 points. When comparing the odds ratios (ORs) for the low (first tertile) and medium (second tertile) diet quality groups with the high-quality group (third tertile), it was observed that there was an association between diet quality with a family income of 1.885 (95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.302-2.729) and 1.566 (95% CI = 1.097-2.235), as well as physical activity of 1.391 (95% CI = 1.107-1.749) and 1.346 (95% CI = 1.086-1.667), respectively. In addition, associations were observed between diet quality and region of residence. CONCLUSIONS: A low-quality diet was associated with family income, sedentarism and geographical area. These data are extremely relevant to assist in coping with cardiovascular disease because they enable an assessment of the distribution of these factors in different regions of the country.

Moringa oleifera Lam. Commercial Beverages: A Multifaceted Investigation of Consumer Perceptions, Sensory Analysis, and Bioactive Properties.

This study employs a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate consumers' perceptions and acceptance of Moringa oleifera Lam. beverages, examining sensory attributes, chemical composition, and bioactivities. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analyses revealed significant chemovariation in phenolic compositions among commercial moringa beverages. A soluble moringa powder drink exhibited the greatest concentrations of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, along with powerful antioxidant capacity powers assessed with ABTS•+, DPPH•, FRAP assays, •NO, and H2O2 scavenging activities. However, this sample was the least preferred and presented high Cd levels, exceeding WHO-acceptable values of 0.3 mg/kg. Sensory testing indicated that sweet and floral flavors contributed to beverages being liked, while green, grass, herbal flavors, sour, bitter, and precipitate presence were considered unfavorable sensory attributes. Health claims positively influenced acceptance, particularly among women. Consumers associated feelings of health, wellness, relaxation, and leisure with moringa beverages. During purchase, the most observed information included the ingredient list, health benefits, and type/flavor. These findings emphasize the importance of consumer awareness in reading labels, verifying product origins, and ensuring the absence of contaminants. By understanding consumer preferences and the impact of health claims, producers can better tailor M. oleifera beverages to meet consumer expectations while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Factors associated with diet quality among Brazilian individuals with cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND: An individual's dietary pattern contributes in different ways to the prevention and control of recurrent cardiovascular events. However, the quality of the diet is influenced by several factors. The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of the diet of individuals with cardiovascular diseases and determine whether there is an association between sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study carried out with individuals with atherosclerosis (coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease or peripheral arterial disease) recruited from 35 reference centres for the treatment of cardiovascular disease in Brazil. Diet quality was assessed according to the Modified Alternative Healthy Eating Index (mAHEI) and stratified into tertiles. For comparing two groups, the Mann-Whitney or Pearson's chi-squared tests were used. However, for comparing three or more groups, analysis of variance or Kruskal-Wallis was used. For the confounding analysis, a multinomial regression model was used. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: In total, 2360 individuals were evaluated: 58.5% male and 64.2% elderly. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) of the mAHEI was 24.0 (20.0-30.0), ranging from 0.4 to 56.0 points. When comparing the odds ratios (ORs) for the low (first tertile) and medium (second tertile) diet quality groups with the high-quality group (third tertile), it was observed that there was an association between diet quality with a family income of 1.885 (95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.302-2.729) and 1.566 (95% CI = 1.097-2.235), as well as physical activity of 1.391 (95% CI = 1.107-1.749) and 1.346 (95% CI = 1.086-1.667), respectively. In addition, associations were observed between diet quality and region of residence. CONCLUSIONS: A low-quality diet was associated with family income, sedentarism and geographical area. These data are extremely relevant to assist in coping with cardiovascular disease because they enable an assessment of the distribution of these factors in different regions of the country.

New ternary Fe(III)-8-hydroxyquinoline-reduced Schiff base complexes as selective anticancer drug candidates.

Due to the growing prevalence of cancer diseases, new therapeutic options are urgently needed, and drugs based on metal ions other than platinum are alternatives with exciting possibilities. We report the synthesis, characterization and biological effect of mixed-ligand Fe(III)-aminophenolate complexes derived from salicylaldehyde and L-tryptophan with quinoline derivatives as co-ligands, namely 8-hydroxyquinoline (8HQ), [Fe(L)(8HQ)(H2O)] (1) and its 5-cloro derivative (Cl8HQ), [Fe(L)(Cl8HQ)(H2O)] (2). The complex bearing the aminophenolate and lacking the quinoline co-ligand, [Fe(L)(Cl)(H2O)2] (3), was prepared for comparison. The analytical and spectroscopic characterization revealed that 1 and 2 are octahedral Fe(III) complexes with the aminophenolate acting as a dianionic tridentate ligand and 8HQ co-ligands as bidentate chelates. Spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking studies were used to evaluate the ability of these complexes to bind bovine serum albumin (BSA) and calf thymus DNA. Complex 2 [Fe(L)(Cl8HQ)(H2O)] was the one showing higher affinity for both biomolecules. Cell viability was assessed in breast, colorectal and bone human cancer cell lines. 1 and 2 were found to be more active than cisplatin in all cell lines tested. A non-tumoral fibroblast line (L929, mouse non-tumoral fibroblasts) was used to evaluate selectivity. The results evidence that 2 shows much higher selectivity than 1 in all cell lines tested, but particularly in bone cancer cells in which selectivity index (SI) values are 8.0 and 18.8 for 1 and 2, respectively.

Organochlorine pesticide analysis in milk by gas-diffusion microextraction with gas chromatography-electron capture detection and confirmation by mass spectrometry.

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are synthetic compounds less used nowadays due to their toxicity combined with slow degradation which leads to accumulation in the environment. Gas-diffusion microextraction (GDME) was employed prior to gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC-ECD) and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). For the first time, the low-cost, eco-friendly GDME system was used to extract the OCPs directly from milk samples and associated with GC-ECD. Parameters that affect GDME's performance (extract volume, extraction time, and temperature) were optimized. The calibration curves of all OCPs (α- and ß-hexachlorocyclohexane, lindane, hexachlorobenzene, p,p'-DDE, aldrin, dieldrin, and α-endosulfan) had coefficients of determination (r2) ranging from 0.991 to 0.995, and limits of detection (LODs) values ranging from 3.7 to 4.8 µg L-1. This method also provided satisfactory values for precision with relative standard deviations (RSDs) lower than 10% and recoveries above 90%. As a proof-of-concept, several commercial milk samples were analyzed, aldrin was found in one of them but below the maximum residue limits.

Antibacterial application of natural and carboxymethylated cashew gum-based silver nanoparticles produced by microwave-assisted synthesis.

This study presents a green synthesis route to silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) stabilized with cashew gum (CG) or carboxymethylated cashew gum (CCG) using microwave-assisted synthesis and evaluates their antibacterial activity. The antimicrobial activity was measured by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In both cases of the presence of CG and CCG, it was found that higher pH lead to more efficient conversion of silver nitrate to AgNPs with well dispersed, spherical and stable particles as well as low crystallinity. CCG-capped AgNPs were slightly smaller (137.0 and 96.3 nm) than those coated with non-modified gum (144.7 and 100.9 nm). The samples presented promising antibacterial activity, especially on Gram-negative bacteria, resulting in significant membrane damage on treated bacteria in comparison to the untreated control, observed by atomic force microscopy. Thus, a quick and efficient synthesis route was applied to produce CGAgNPs and CCGAgNPs with antimicrobial potential.

Nutritional status and consumption of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory foods by patients with inflammatory bowel diseases / Estado nutricional e consumo de alimentos inflamatórios e anti-inflamatórios por pacientes portadores de doenças inflamatórias intestinais

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluation of nutritional status and consumption frequency of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory food by patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. Methods An observational study of the patients assisted by the interdisciplinary inflammatory bowel diseases ambulatory of UNIVALI-SC. The nutritional status of patients was evaluated and each patient was categorized according to his/her body max index and also through a research questionnaire of the individual social-economy situation, life habits, and inflammatory and anti-inflammatory food consumption in a determinate period of time. Results Out of the 65 patients, 57% had Crohn's disease and 43% had ulcerative colitis. According to the disease activity, 71% were in remission and 29% in activity. Of the sample, 57% were classified as overweight. It was not possible to correlate nutritional status and type of inflammatory bowel diseases, nutritional status and income or nutritional status and level of education. The most inflammatory foods were beef (65%) and coffee (60%), while the anti-inflammatory ones were garlic (75%), olive oil (54%), and sweet potatoes (23%). There was no association between the most consumed inflammatory and anti-inflammatory food and body max index. Conclusion According to the results, most of the patients were overweight. The most commonly consumed inflammatory foods were beef and coffee and the anti-inflammatory ones were garlic, olive oil, and sweet potatoes.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o estado nutricional e a frequência de consumo de alimentos inflamatórios e anti-inflamatórios por portadores de doenças inflamatórias intestinais. Metodologia Estudo transversal com indivíduos assistidos pelo ambulatório interdisciplinar de doenças inflamatórias intestinais da UNIVALI-SC. Avaliados por meio do estado nutricional e classificados de acordo com o índice de massa corporal, bem como através de um questionário contendo dados socioeconômicos, hábitos de vida e frequência do consumo de alimentos inflamatórios e anti-inflamatórios. Resultados Dos 65 pacientes, 57% eram portadores de doença de Crohn e 43% de retocolite ulcerativa. De acordo com a atividade da doença, 71% encontravam-se em remissão e 29% em atividade. Da amostra, 57% foram classificados como acima do peso. Não foi possível correlacionar estado nutricional e o tipo de doenças inflamatórias intestinais, estado nutricional e renda ou estado nutricional e escolaridade. Os alimentos inflamatórios mais consumidos foram carne de gado (65%) e café (60%), já os anti-inflamatórios foram alho (75%), azeite de oliva (54%) e batata doce (23%). Não houve associação entre os alimentos inflamatórios e anti-inflamatórios mais consumidos e o índice de massa corporal. Conclusão Segundo os resultados, observou-se que a maioria dos pacientes apresentava excesso de peso. Os alimentos inflamatórios mais consumidos foram carne de gado e café e os anti-inflamatórios foram alho, azeite de oliva e batata doce.

Oilseeds from A Brazilian Semi-Arid Region: Edible Potential Regarding the Mineral Composition.

Oilseeds from five native plant species with edible potential from the Brazilian Caatinga semi-arid region (Diplopterys pubipetala, Barnebya harleyi, Croton adamantinus, Hippocratea volubilis, and Couroupita guianensis) were investigated regarding their mineral contents. The minerals, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Cr, Al, were analyzed by high-resolution continuum source atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS AAS) and P by the vanadomolybdophosphoric acid colorimetric method. K, Mg, and P were the main elements found (1.62-3.7 mg/g, 362-586 µg/g, and 224-499 µg/g dry weight (dw), respectively). B. harley seeds contained the highest amounts of K and P, while C. guianensis seeds were the richest in Mg. Fe was the most abundant oligoelement (2.3-25.6 µg/g dw). Cr contents were below the limit of quantification for all samples and Al amounts were low: 0.04-1.80 µg/g dw. A linear discriminant analysis clearly differentiated B. harleyi and C. guianensis samples from the remaining ones. In sum, these oilseeds from the Brazilian Caatinga semi-arid region seem to have the potential to be used as natural sources of minerals, mainly K.

Implementation of a Brazilian Cardioprotective Nutritional (BALANCE) Program for improvement on quality of diet and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events: A randomized, multicenter trial

Background Complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with higher ischemic risk, which can be mitigated by long-term dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). However, concomitant high bleeding risk (HBR) may be present, making it unclear whether short- or long-term DAPT should be prioritized. Objectives This study investigated the effects of ischemic (by PCI complexity) and bleeding (by PRECISE-DAPT [PRE dicting bleeding Complications in patients undergoing stent Implantation and Sub sequent Dual Anti Platelet Therapy] score) risks on clinical outcomes and on the impact of DAPT duration after coronary stenting. Methods Complex PCI was defined as ≥3 stents implanted and/or ≥3 lesions treated, bifurcation stenting and/or stent length >60 mm, and/or chronic total occlusion revascularization. Ischemic and bleeding outcomes in high (≥25) or non-high (<25) PRECISE-DAPT strata were evaluated based on randomly allocated duration of DAPT. Results Among 14,963 patients from 8 randomized trials, 3,118 underwent complex PCI and experienced a higher rate of ischemic, but not bleeding, events. Long-term DAPT in non-HBR patients reduced ischemic events in both complex (absolute risk difference: −3.86%; 95% confidence interval: −7.71 to +0.06) and noncomplex PCI strata (absolute risk difference: −1.14%; 95% confidence interval: −2.26 to −0.02), but not among HBR patients, regardless of complex PCI features. The bleeding risk according to the Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction scale was increased by long-term DAPT only in HBR patients, regardless of PCI complexity. Conclusions Patients who underwent complex PCI had a higher risk of ischemic events, but benefitted from long-term DAPT only if HBR features were not present. These data suggested that when concordant, bleeding, more than ischemic risk, should inform decision-making on the duration of DAPT. (AU)

Contribution of ultra-processed foods consumption in sodium ingestion of atherosclerotic disease patients, residents in the southern region of Brazil.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Recent studies have related the consumption of ultra-processed foods with the development of cardiovascular diseases and have considered this relation with excessive sodium intake. While Brazilian studies have analysed that this consumption may have no direct relationship with the processing, but rather with the addition of salt. The purpose of this study is to investigate the contribution of the consumption of processed products in the daily intake of sodium ingestion by atherosclerotic disease patients. METHODS: A sub study, conducted with data from 630 cardiopathic patients who take part in "Effect of Brazilian Cardioprotective Food Program study on the reduction of events and risk factors in secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease part". Food was classified as: unprocessed or minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods, ultra-processed food and beverages. Twenty-four-hour food recall (R24h) was collected from patients, and the estimation of total calories and sodium intake were calculated, as well as the percentage of sodium contribution according to the categories already mentioned. For the adequacy ratio analysis, the daily values of sodium intake were used to compared to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (<2000 mg / day). RESULTS: The average sodium intake was 1970.87 mg for women and 2642.86 mg for men, being higher for males' patients aged 60-79. It was observed that 64% of the studied population demonstrated sodium intake > 2000 mg. When considered levels > 3001 mg, a higher incidence of consumption was observed in the male group. Only 21.1% were intaking sodium within the recommended amount. Industrialized foods contributed to 33% of the mineral intake. CONCLUSION: These findings have demonstrated that the majority of the studied patients exceeded the dietary sodium recommendation. It has also indicated that patient's male, have presented increased consumption of the mineral. Consequently, warning for the necessity of greater investments in the nutritional re-education of these patients.

Acetylated cashew gum-based nanoparticles for the incorporation of alkaloid epiisopiloturine.

The natural alkaloid epiisopiloturine has recently become the focus of study for various medicinal properties, particularly for its anti-inflammatory and antischistosomal effect. The incorporation of active molecules in natural polymeric matrices has garnered increasing interest during recent decades. A new derivative of cashew gum successfully obtained by gum acetylation has shown great potential as a carrier in controlled drug release systems. In this work, epiisopiloturine was encapsulated in acetylated cashew gum nanoparticles in order to increase solubility and allow slow release, whereas the morphology results were supported by computer simulations. The particles were produced under a variety of conditions, and thoroughly characterized using light scattering and microscopic techniques. The particles were spherical and highly stable in solution, and showed drug incorporation at high levels, up to 55% efficiency. Using a dialysis-based in vitro assay, these particles were shown to release the drug via a Fickian diffusion mechanism, leading to gradual drug release over approximately 6 h. These nanoparticles show potential for the use as drug delivery system, while studies on their potential anti-inflammatory action, as well as toxicity and efficacy assays would need to be performed in the future to confirm their suitability as drug delivery candidates.

Deficiency of vitamin D and its relation with clinical and laboratory activity of inflammatory bowel diseases / Deficiência de vitamina D e sua relação com a atividade clínica e laboratorial das Doenças Inflamatórias Intestinais

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the serum concentrations of vitamin D and their relation with inflammatory bowel diseases. Methods: This is a quantitative and descriptive study, with individuals assisted by the interdisciplinary ambulatory of Inflammatory Bowel Disease of the Family and Community Health Unit of Itajaí/SC from September 2015 to October 2016. Socioeconomic data, life habits, and biochemical tests were collected, with the use of clinical indexes of classification of the disease activity: Harvey-Bradshaw Index (Crohn's Disease) and Partial Mayo Score (Chronic Nonspecific Ulcerative Colitis). Results: Of the 60 patients evaluated, 57% (n = 34) had Crohn's Disease and 43% (n = 26) had Chronic Nonspecific Ulcerative Colitis. According to disease activity, 75% (n = 45) were in the remission phase, 13% (n = 8) had mild activity, and 9% (n = 5) had moderate activity. Regarding vitamin D, 63% (n = 38) had deficiency of this vitamin and 37% (n = 22) presented sufficiency. With the association of serum vitamin D concentrations and disease activity, we observed statistical significance among the variables (p = 0.005). Regarding biochemical exams, the majority of patients with fecal calprotectin elevation presented vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.025). Statistically significant correlation between HSV and vitamin D (p = 0.0001) was found. Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, vitamin D deficiency is related to the clinical and laboratory activity of inflammatory bowel diseases.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as concentrações séricas de vitamina D e sua relação com as doenças inflamatórias intestinais. Métodos: Estudo quantitativo e descritivo com indivíduos assistidos pelo ambulatório interdisciplinar de Doença Inflamatória Intestinal da Unidade de Saúde Familiar e Comunitária de Itajaí/SC no período de setembro 2015 até outubro 2016. Foram coletados dados socioeconômicos, hábitos de vida, exames bioquímicos e foram aplicados os índices clínicos de classificação da atividade da doença: Índice de Harvey-Bradshaw (Doença de Crohn) e Escore Mayo Parcial (Retocolite Ulcerativa Inespecífica Crônica). Resultados: Dos 60 pacientes avaliados, 57% (n = 34) eram portadores de Doença de Crohn e 43% (n = 26) de Retocolite Ulcerativa Inespecífica Crônica. De acordo com a atividade da doença, 75% (n = 45) encontravam-se em fase de remissão, 13% (n = 8) em atividade leve e 9% (n = 5) em atividade moderada. Com relação a vitamina D, 63% (n = 38) apresentavam deficiência e 37% (n = 22) demonstravam suficiência. Associando as concentrações séricas de vitamina D e a atividade da doença, observou-se significância estatística entre as variáveis (p = 0,005). Com relação aos exames bioquímicos, a maioria dos pacientes com calprotectina fecal elevada apresentou deficiência de vitamina D (p = 0,025). Houve correlação estatisticamente significativa entre VHS e vitamina D (p = 0,0001). Conclusão: Segundo os achados do estudo, deficiência de vitamina D relaciona-se com atividade clínica e laboratorial das doenças inflamatórias intestinais.

Lycopene-rich extract from red guava (Psidium guajava L.) displays cytotoxic effect against human breast adenocarcinoma cell line MCF-7 via an apoptotic-like pathway.

This study investigated a lycopene-rich extract from red guava (LEG) for its chemical composition using spectrophotometry, mass spectrometry, attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and computational studies. The cytotoxic activity of LEG and the underlying mechanism was studied in human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), murine fibroblast cells (NIH-3T3), BALB/c murine peritoneal macrophages, and sheep blood erythrocytes by evaluating the cell viability with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method and flow cytometry. Spectrophotometry analysis showed that LEG contained 20% of lycopene per extract dry weight. Experimental and theoretical ATR-FTIR suggests the presence of lycopene, whereas MS/MS spectra obtained after fragmentation of the molecular ion [M]+• of 536.4364 show fragment ions at m/z 269.2259, 375.3034, 444.3788, and 467.3658, corroborating the presence of lycopene mostly related to all-trans configuration. Treatment with LEG (1600 to 6.25µg/mL) for 24 and 72h significantly affected the viability of MCF-7 cells (mean half maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50]=29.85 and 5.964µg/mL, respectively) but not NIH-3T3 cells (IC50=1579 and 911.5µg/mL, respectively). Furthermore LEG at concentrations from 800 to 6.25µg/mL presented low cytotoxicity against BALB/c peritoneal macrophages (IC50≥800µg/mL) and no hemolytic activity. LEG (400 and 800µg/mL) caused reduction in the cell proliferation and induced cell cycle arrest, DNA fragmentation, modifications in the mitochondrial membrane potential, and morphologic changes related to granularity and size in MCF-7 cells; however, it failed to cause any significant damage to the cell membrane or display necrosis or traditional apoptosis. In conclusion, LEG was able to induce cytostatic and cytotoxic effects on breast cancer cells probably via induction of an apoptotic-like pathway.

Structure and function of a novel antioxidant peptide from the skin of tropical frogs.

The amphibian skin plays an important role protecting the organism from external harmful factors such as microorganisms or UV radiation. Based on biorational strategies, many studies have investigated the cutaneous secretion of anurans as a source of bioactive molecules. By a peptidomic approach, a novel antioxidant peptide (AOP) with in vitro free radical scavenging ability was isolated from Physalaemus nattereri. The AOP, named antioxidin-I, has a molecular weight [M+H]+ = 1543.69Da and a TWYFITPYIPDK primary amino acid sequence. The gene encoding the antioxidin-I precursor was expressed in the skin tissue of three other Tropical frog species: Phyllomedusa tarsius, P. distincta and Pithecopus rohdei. cDNA sequencing revealed highly homologous regions (signal peptide and acidic region). Mature antioxidin-I has a novel primary sequence with low similarity compared with previously described amphibian's AOPs. Antioxidin-I adopts a random structure even at high concentrations of hydrophobic solvent, it has poor antimicrobial activity and poor performance in free radical scavenging assays in vitro, with the exception of the ORAC assay. However, antioxidin-I presented a low cytotoxicity and suppressed menadione-induced redox imbalance when tested with fibroblast in culture. In addition, it had the capacity to substantially attenuate the hypoxia-induced production of reactive oxygen species when tested in hypoxia exposed living microglial cells, suggesting a potential neuroprotective role for this peptide.

Intolerância à lactose e sua relação com a atividade da doença inflamatória intestinal / Lactose intolerance and its relation to the activity of the inflammatory bowel disease

Introdução: As doenças inflamatórias intestinais (DII) são caracterizadas como afecções do intestino, clinicamente divididas em Retocolite Ulcerativa (RCUI) e Doença de Crohn (DC). A má absorção da lactose é um fator que pode influenciar a intensidade e a presença dos sintomas gastrointestinais nas DII. A sensibilidade à lactose ocorre devido a uma deficiência da hidrólise de lactose pela borda em escova no intestino delgado. O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a intolerância à lactose e sua relação com a atividade da DII. Método: Foram avaliados indivíduos diagnosticados com esta afecção, assistidos pela Clínica de DII da Unidade de Saúde Familiar e Comunitária (USFC) de Itajaí/SC, no período de novembro de 2015 a agosto de 2016. Para a avaliação da atividade da doença, foram utilizados exames decalprotectina fecal, ferritina, PCR e VHS. Além destes marcadores, índices clínicos de classificação da atividade também foram aplicados. A intolerância à lactose foi avaliada a partir de curva glicêmica de 30, 60 e 90 minutos. A administração da lactose foi realizada via oral, na dose de 2 g/kg do paciente, sem exceder a dose máxima de 50 g. Para avaliar a frequência do consumo de lácteos, foi aplicado um questionário de frequência alimentar. Resultados: O presente estudo contou com uma amostra de 50 pacientes. Destes, 70% (n=35) eram do sexo feminino, a média de idade foi de 48 anos±12,56 e 64% (n=32) eram tolerantes à lactose. Quanto ao diagnóstico, 62% (n=31) tinham DC e 40% (n=20), padrão de acometimento em íleo terminal. Verificou-se que 26% (n=13) dos intolerantes à lactose estavam em remissão da doença. Conclusões: Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas entre os índices clínicos e bioquímicos de atividade da doença e a tolerância à lactose.

In Situ Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles in a Hydrogel of Carboxymethyl Cellulose with Phthalated-Cashew Gum as a Promising Antibacterial and Healing Agent.

Silver nanoparticles have been shown to possess considerable antibacterial activity, but in vivo applications have been limited due to the inherent, but low, toxicity of silver. On the other hand, silver nanoparticles could provide cutaneous protection against infection, due to their ability to liberate silver ions via a slow release mechanism, and their broad-spectrum antimicrobial action. Thus, in this work, we describe the development of a carboxymethyl cellulose-based hydrogel containing silver nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were prepared in the hydrogel in situ, utilizing two variants of cashew gum as a capping agent, and sodium borohydride as the reducing agent. This gum is non-toxic and comes from a renewable natural source. The particles and gel were thoroughly characterized through using rheological measurements, UV-vis spectroscopy, nanoparticles tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy analysis (TEM). Antibacterial tests were carried out, confirming antimicrobial action of the silver nanoparticle-loaded gels. Furthermore, rat wound-healing models were used and demonstrated that the gels exhibited improved wound healing when compared to the base hydrogel as a control. Thus, these gels are proposed as excellent candidates for use as wound-healing treatments.