Differential biological activity of two extracts of ripe fruits of Carica candamarcensis Hook on human neutrophils / Actividad biologica diferencial de dos extractos de frutos maduros de Carica candamarcensis Hook en neutrófilos humanos

We evaluated the effect of the total macerate (TM) and seed oil (SO) of mature Carica candamarcensis fruits, on the release of Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and the phosphorylation of MAPK in neutrophils. The antioxidant capacity of these extracts was evaluated by ABTS assay. Neutrophils stimulated with different dilutions of TM or SO were analyzed for cytotoxicity, MMP9 release, and MAPK phosphorylation, using trypan blue exclusion assays, zymography, and immunoblotting, respectively. Both extracts show antioxidant activity, being higher in TM; none presented cytotoxic effect. The 5% and 2.5% dilutions of TM significantly reduced MMP9 release, and all decreased MAPK phosphorylation. SO significantly increased the release o f MMP9 and MAPK phosphorylation, the effect being greater when they were prestimulated with lipopolysaccharide.TM may have anti - inflammatory potential, while SO could have a priming effect that needs to be confirmed

Evaluamos el efecto del macerado total (MT) y aceite de semillas (AV) de frutos maduros de Carica candamarcensis , en la liberación de Matriz metaloproteinasa 9 (MMP9) y la fosfor ilación de MAPK en neutrófilos. La capacidad antioxidante de estos extractos se evaluó por ensayo ABTS. En neutrófilos estimulados con diferentes diluciones de MT o AV se analizó la citotoxicidad, liberación de MMP9 y fosforilación de MAPK, mediante ensayo s de exclusión con azul de tripano, zimografía e inmunotransferencia, respectivamente. Ambos extractos muestran actividad antioxidante, siendo mayor en MT; ninguno presentó efecto citotóxico. Las diluciones 5% y 2,5% de MT redujeron significativamente la l iberación de MMP9, y todas disminuyeron la fosforilación de MAPK. El AV incrementó significativamente la liberación de MMP9 y la fosforilación de MAPK, el efecto fue mayor cuando se preestimularon con lipopolisacárido. El MT puede tener potencial antiinfla matorio, mientras que el AV podría tener un efecto "priming" que necesita ser corroborado.

Biochemical characterization of Euphorbia resinifera floral cyathia.

Euphorbia resinifera O. Berg is a plant endemic to the Northern and Central regions of Morocco known since the ancient Roman and Greek times for secreting a poisonous latex containing resiniferatoxin. However, E. resinifera pseudo-inflorescences called cyathia are devoid of laticifers and, therefore, do not secrete latex. Instead, they exudate nectar that local honey bees collect and craft into honey. Honey and cyathium water extracts find a broad range of applications in the traditional medicine of Northern Africa as ointments and water decoctions. Moreover, E. resinifera monofloral honey has received the Protected Geographic Indication certification for its outstanding qualities. Given the relevance of E. resinifera cyathia for bee nutrition, honey production, and the health benefit of cyathium-derived products, this study aimed to screen metabolites synthesized and accumulated in its pseudo-inflorescences. Our analyses revealed that E. resinifera cyathia accumulate primary metabolites in considerable abundance, including hexoses, amino acids and vitamins that honey bees may collect from nectar and craft into honey. Cyathia also synthesize volatile organic compounds of the class of benzenoids and terpenes, which are emitted by flowers pollinated by honey bees and bumblebees. Many specialized metabolites, including carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyamines, were also detected, which, while protecting the reproductive organs against abiotic stresses, also confer antioxidant properties to water decoctions. In conclusion, our analyses revealed that E. resinifera cyathia are a great source of antioxidant molecules and a good food source for the local foraging honeybees, revealing the central role of the flowers from this species in mediating interactions with local pollinators and the conferral of medicinal properties to plant extracts.

Comparison of direct analysis in real-time mass spectrometry, atmospheric solids analysis probe-mass spectrometry, and ion mobility spectrometry for ensuring food safety by rapid screening of poppy seeds.

The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) is a global commercial crop that has been historically valued for both medicinal and culinary purposes. Naturally occurring opium alkaloids including morphine, codeine, thebaine, noscapine, and papaverine are found primarily in the latex produced by the plant. If the plant is allowed to fully mature, poppy seeds that do not contain the opium alkaloids will form within the pods and may be used in the food industry. It is possible for the seeds to become contaminated with alkaloids by the latex during harvesting, posing a potential health risk for consumers. In the USA, there have been more than 600 reported adverse events including 19 fatalities that may be linked to the consumption of a contaminated poppy-containing product such as home-brewed poppy seed tea. Unwashed poppy seeds and pods may be purchased over the Internet and shipped worldwide. The Forensic Chemistry Center, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has evaluated several mass spectrometers (MS) capable of rapid screening to be used for high-throughput analysis of samples such as poppy seeds. These include a direct analysis in real-time (DART) ambient ionization source coupled to a single-quadrupole MS, an atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) ionization source coupled to the same MS, and ion mobility spectrometers (IMS). These instruments have been used to analyze 17 poppy seed samples for the presence of alkaloids, and the results were compared to data obtained using liquid chromatography with mass spectral detection (LC-MS/MS). Results from the 17 poppy seed samples indicate that the DART-MS, ASAP-MS, and IMS devices detect many of the same alkaloids confirmed during the LC-MS/MS analyses, although both the false-positive and false-negative rates are higher, possibly due to the non-homogeneity of the samples and the lack of chromatographic separation.

Defining trimester-specific reference intervals for carbohydrate deficient transferrin in pregnant women.

OBJECTIVES: Extensive consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to severe complications for the unborn child. Carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) levels in serum have become a common biomarker for excessive alcohol intake. However, during pregnancy CDT levels can rise to levels above commonly used cut-off values, for reasons unrelated to alcohol intake. The aim of this study is to investigate the changes in CDT values during pregnancy and to determine accurate, trimester dependent reference intervals. METHODS: 439 serum samples of 147 healthy pregnant women were obtained for trimester 1, 2, 3, and post-partum and were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and an N-Latex immunonephelometric assay. New trimester-specific reference intervals were established. RESULTS: This study demonstrates there is a trimester-dependent increase of %CDT, as up to 39.4% of the population exceeded the previously established upper reference limit of 1.7%. In our study the estimated upper reference limit for %DST/%CDT were 1.55%, 1.96%, 2.05% and 1.35% for trimester 1, 2, 3 and post-partum for the HPLC-method and 2.02%, 2.19%, 2.19% and 1.96% for the N-Latex immunoassay. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate that CDT levels rise during pregnancy. The magnitude of the increase is method-dependent and needs to be taken into account. We have established method- and trimester-specific reference intervals to prevent false-positive results in alcohol abuse screening tests during pregnancy.

Plant defense synergies and antagonisms affect performance of specialist herbivores of common milkweed.

As a general rule, plants defend against herbivores with multiple traits. The defense synergy hypothesis posits that some traits are more effective when co-expressed with others compared to their independent efficacy. However, this hypothesis has rarely been tested outside of phytochemical mixtures, and seldom under field conditions. We tested for synergies between multiple defense traits of common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) by assaying the performance of two specialist chewing herbivores on plants in natural populations. We employed regression and a novel application of random forests to identify synergies and antagonisms between defense traits. We found the first direct empirical evidence for two previously hypothesized defense synergies in milkweed (latex by secondary metabolites, latex by trichomes) and identified numerous other potential synergies and antagonisms. Our strongest evidence for a defense synergy was between leaf mass per area and low nitrogen content; given that these "leaf economic" traits typically covary in milkweed, a defense synergy could reinforce their co-expression. We report that each of the plant defense traits showed context-dependent effects on herbivores, and increased trait expression could well be beneficial to herbivores for some ranges of observed expression. The novel methods and findings presented here complement more mechanistic approaches to the study of plant defense diversity and provide some of the best evidence to date that multiple classes of plant defense synergize in their impact on insects. Plant defense synergies against highly specialized herbivores, as shown here, are consistent with ongoing reciprocal evolution between these antagonists.

Genome-wide identification and characterization of major latex-like protein genes responsible for crop contamination in Cucurbita pepo.

BACKGROUND: Zucchini plants (Cucurbita pepo) accumulate persistent organic pollutants (POPs) at high concentrations in their aerial parts, and major latex-like proteins (MLPs) play crucial roles in their accumulation. MLPs bind to POPs in root cells, MLP-POP complexes are then translocated into xylem vessels, and POPs are transported to the aerial parts. We previously identified three CpMLP genes (MLP-PG1, MLP-GR1, and MLP-GR3) as transporting factors for POPs; however, other studies have shown that the genomes of several plant species contain more than 10 MLP genes, thus, further MLP genes responsible for POP accumulation may have been overlooked. METHODS AND RESULTS: Here, we investigated the number of CpMLP genes by performing a hidden Markov model search against the C. pepo genome database and characterized their effects on POP accumulation by performing the expression analysis in the organs and in silico structural analysis. The C. pepo genome contained 21 CpMLP genes, and several CpMLP genes, including MLP-PG1 and MLP-GR3, were highly expressed in roots. 3D structural prediction showed that all examined CpMLPs contained a cavity with a hydrophobic region, which facilitated binding to POPs. CONCLUSIONS: The present study provides insights regarding CpMLP genes responsible for POP accumulation.

Pre-analytical considerations of condom traces: A review of composition, background, transfer and persistence.

Today, rape and sexual assault cases are mainly solved using evidence such as medical evidence or DNA analysis. Condom traces have been found to be present in 10% of assaulted women, when no DNA is found [1]. Numerous studies have emphasized the interest of analysing the composition of male condoms and their traces, and developing specific methods for the analysis of this type of evidence. However, transfer and persistence of condom traces in a specific matrix are rarely referenced. Therefore, forensic scientists have no complete knowledge of the trace and what could be expected in a real case. The purpose of this article is to review the literature addressing the composition of condoms and their traces as well as its influence on the transfer and persistence from a forensic point of view. Peer-reviewed literature, patents, professional literature, data from international administrations and international organisations' reports have been used to track the composition and the problematics of transfer and persistence of condom traces. The results of this review show that the composition of male condoms and their traces are complex systems, with numerous compounds originating from the condom at the moment of the transfer and evolving over time according to specific persistence patterns. Although numerous types of analyses have already been proposed and tested for condom traces, forensic evidence considerations have not been fully studied yet. Considering the fact that sexual assaults without the detection of DNA are increasingly frequent, there is a definite medical and forensic need to improve our knowledge of the processes involved in the development of condom traces in order to better understand analytical results.

Development of a Method to Extract Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) DNA from Heroin.

This study is the first to report the successful development of a method to extract opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) DNA from heroin samples. Determining of the source of an unknown heroin sample (forensic geosourcing) is vital to informing domestic and foreign policy related to counter-narcoterrorism. Current profiling methods focus on identifying process-related chemical impurities found in heroin samples. Changes to the geographically distinct processing methods may lead to difficulties in classifying and attributing heroin samples to a region/country. This study focuses on methods to optimize the DNA extraction and amplification of samples with low levels of degraded DNA and inhibiting compounds such as heroin. We compared modified commercial-off-the-shelf extraction methods such as the Qiagen Plant, Stool and the Promega Maxwell-16 RNA-LEV tissue kits for the ability to extract opium poppy DNA from latex, raw and cooked opium, white and brown powder heroin and black tar heroin. Opium poppy DNA was successfully detected in all poppy-derived samples, including heroin. The modified Qiagen stool method with post-extraction purification and a two-stage, dual DNA polymerase amplification procedure resulted in the highest DNA yield and minimized inhibition. This paper describes the initial phase in establishing a DNA-based signature method to characterize heroin.

Common Diaper Ingredient Questions: Modern Disposable Diaper Materials Are Safe and Extensively Tested.

Today's disposable diapers are high-performance and well-tested products, designed to keep skin dry and healthy. They are primarily made of biologically inert polymers, commonly used in fabrics and other materials that are in contact with skin, and in foods and cosmetics. Still, product safety and ingredients in everyday products can be a source of anxiety for new parents. This article provides the facts behind some commonly asked questions from consumers about diaper ingredients and safety, including myths and facts related to chlorine, latex, dyes, and chemical additives.

The influence of aggregation of latex particles on membrane fouling attachments & ultrafiltration performance in ultrafiltration of latex contaminated water and wastewater.

The goal of the present study was to investigate the influence of latex particle aggregation on membrane fouling attachments and the ultrafiltration performance of simulated latex effluent using Cetyltrimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) as a cationic surfactant. Hydrophilic polysulfone and ultrafilic flat heterogeneous membranes, with molecular weight cut off (MWCO) of 60,000 and 100,000, respectively, as well as hydrophobic polyvinylidene difluoride with MWCO of 100,000, were used under a constant flow rate and cross-flow mode in ultrafiltration of latex solution. In addition, a polycarbonate flat membrane with uniform pore size of 0.05µm was likewise used during the experiment. The effects of CTAB on the latex particle size distribution were investigated at various concentrations, different treatment times, and diverse agitation duration times. The effects of CTAB on the zeta potential of membrane surfaces and latex particles were also investigated. The data obtained indicate that the particle size distribution of treated latex effluent experienced significant shifts in the peaks toward a larger size range caused by the aggregation of particles. As a result, the mass of fouling contributing to pore blocking and the irreversible fouling were noticeably reduced. The optimum results occurred in the instance when CTAB was added at the critical micelle concentration of 0.36g/L, for the duration of 10min and with minimal agitation. Notably, a higher stirring rate had an overall negative effect on the membrane fouling minimization.

Preliminary study to characterize plastic polymers using elemental analyser/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA/IRMS).

Plastic waste is a growing global environmental problem, particularly in the marine ecosystems, in consideration of its persistence. The monitoring of the plastic waste has become a global issue, as reported by several surveillance guidelines proposed by Regional Sea Conventions (OSPAR, UNEP) and appointed by the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Policy responses to plastic waste vary at many levels, ranging from beach clean-up to bans on the commercialization of plastic bags and to Regional Plans for waste management and recycling. Moreover, in recent years, the production of plant-derived biodegradable plastic polymers has assumed increasing importance. This study reports the first preliminary characterization of carbon stable isotopes (δ13C) of different plastic polymers (petroleum- and plant-derived) in order to increase the dataset of isotopic values as a tool for further investigation in different fields of polymers research as well as in the marine environment surveillance. The δ13C values determined in different packaging for food uses reflect the plant origin of "BIO" materials, whereas the recycled plastic materials displayed a δ13C signatures between plant- and petroleum-derived polymers source. In a preliminary estimation, the different colours of plastic did not affect the variability of δ13C values, whereas the abiotic and biotic degradation processes that occurred in the plastic materials collected on beaches and in seawater, showed less negative δ13C values. A preliminary experimental field test confirmed these results. The advantages offered by isotope ratio mass spectrometry with respect to other analytical methods used to characterize the composition of plastic polymers are: high sensitivity, small amount of material required, rapidity of analysis, low cost and no limitation in black/dark samples compared with spectroscopic analysis.

Metabolic changes in Euphorbia palusrtis latex after fungal infection.

The variations of metabolic profile of the latex of wild-growing Euphorbia palustris was carried out using multivariate analysis of 1H NMR spectral data. One population was infected with fungi Fusarium sporotrichioides, Fusarium proliferatum and Alternaria alternata, while the other consisted of healthy plant species. The non-polar metabolites of latex extracts such as benzoyl ingenol-laurate, amyrin decadienoate esters, cis-1,4-polyisoprene, and 24-methylenecycloartanol were identified using 1H and 2D NMR spectra. Principal component analysis of 1H NMR data provided a clear discrimination between the latex of infected and healthy plants. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration values of the latex extracts of healthy and infected plants were determined. The latex of infected plants was found to contain higher levels of benzoyl ingenol-laurate and 24-methylenecycloartanol, of which concentrations were strongly correlated with the antifungal activities of the latex.

Novel Insights into the Organization of Laticifer Cells: A Cell Comprising a Unified Whole System.

Laticifer cells are specialized plant cells that synthesize and accumulate latex. Studies on laticifers have lagged behind in recent years, and data regarding the functional role of laticifers and their fitness benefit still remain elusive. Laticifer differentiation and its impact on plant growth and development also remain to be investigated. Here, cellular, molecular, and genetic tools were developed to examine the distribution, differentiation, ontogeny, and other characteristic features, as well as the potential developmental role of laticifer cells in the latex-bearing plant Euphorbia lathyris. The organization of the laticiferous system within the E. lathyris plant body is reported, emerging as a single elongated and branched coenocytic cell, constituting the largest cell type existing in plants. We also report the ontogeny and organization of laticifer cells in the embryo and the identification of a laticifer-associated gene expression pattern. Moreover, the identification of laticifer- and latex-deficient mutants (pil mutants) allowed for the identification of distinct loci regulating laticifer differentiation, growth, and metabolic activity. Additionally, pil mutants revealed that laticifer cells appear nonessential for plant growth and development, thus pointing toward their importance, instead, for specific ecophysiological adaptations of latex-bearing plants in natural environments.

Estudo da alteração dimensional linear dos elásticos ortodônticos em diferentes pigmentos e tempos de armazenamento / Study of linear dimensional change of orthodontic elastics in different pigments and storage times

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a alteração dimensional linear dos elásticos ortodônticos sendo submetidos ao tempo de armazenagem em saliva artificial a 37ºC durante o período imediato (T0), 24 horas (T24) e 30 dias (T30). Os grupos de elásticos foram divididos em cinco cores com dez (n=10) amostras por grupo: cinza (C); verde (V); preta (P); rosa (R) e transparentes (T), e marcas comerciais: Morelli (a); 3M Unitek (b); GAC (c). Utilizou-se a máquina de análise de dimensão (perfilômetro) da marca Mitutoyo, que avaliou a alteração de dimensão conforme as distâncias de extremidade dos elásticos e os fatores envolvidos como o tempo de armazenamento e a marca comercial. Em seguida, os dados foram analisados estatisticamente, obtendo os resultados e realizadas as tabelas, gráficos e as correlações lineares. Para esta avaliação foram utilizados os testes Anova e de Tukey (p < 0,01). Os resultados apontaram os seguintes valores: grupo V ­ t0:3,09 (± 0,24), t24:3,12 (± 0,36) e t30d:3,15 (± 0,22); grupo T ­ t0:3,07 (± 0,16), t24:3,10 (± 0,15), t30d:3,14 (± 0,10), grupo P ­ t0:3,13 (± 0,24), t24:,16 (± 0,19), t30d:3,18 (± 0,20); grupo R ­ t0:3,08 (± 0,25), t24:3,11 (± 0,14), t30d:3,13 (± 0,18); grupo C ­ t0:3,15 (± 0,31), t24h:3,18 (± 0,15) e t30d:3,19 (± 0,59). O grupo P apresentou diferença estatisticamente significante em relação aos demais. As marcas comerciais apresentaram pequenas alterações dimensionais, aceitáveis clinicamente de acordo com a literatura. Concluiu-se que os pigmentos, que determinam a cor específica dos elásticos, são fatores que interferem na propriedade deste material. O tempo de armazenamento é determinante e fundamental para avaliação do comportamento de estabilidade do material polimérico.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the linear dimensional change of orthodontic elastics submitted to the storage in artificial saliva 37ºC at baseline (T0), 24-hour (T24), and at 30-day (T30) periods. The groups (n=10) were divided into five colors: gray (C), green (V), black (P), pink (R), and clear (T) with the following brands: Morelli (a), 3m Unitek (b), and GAC (c). A profilometer (Mitutoyo) was used to analyze the dimensional changes. Next, means were obtained also with tables, plots, and linear correlations. The Anova and Tukey´s tests (p<0.01) were used to evaluate data. The results showed that group V presented values: t0:3.09 (± 0.24), t24:3.12 (± 0.36) and t30d:3.15 (± 0.22); T group: t0:3.07 (± 0.16), t24:3.10 (± 0.15), t30d:3.14 (± 0.10), P group: t0:3.13 (± 0.24), t 24:16 (± 0.19), t30d:3.18 (± 0.20); R group: t0:3.08 (± 0.25), t24:3.11 (± .14), t30d:3.13 (± 0.18), C group: t0:3.15 (± 0.31), t24h:3.18 (± 0.15) and t30d: 3.19 (± 0.59), being statistically different from the P group compared to other groups. The commercial brands presented small dimensional changes and according the literature. It can be concluded that pigments can interfere with the elastic property.The storage time is fundamental to evaluate the stability of the polymeric material.

Physical Characteristics of the Leaves and Latex of Papaya Plants Infected with the Papaya meleira Virus.

Sticky disease, which is caused by Papaya meleira virus (PMeV), is a significant papaya disease in Brazil and Mexico, where it has caused severe economic losses, and it seems to have spread to Central and South America. Studies assessing the pathogen-host interaction at the nano-histological level are needed to better understand the mechanisms that underlie natural resistance. In this study, the topography and mechanical properties of the leaf midribs and latex of healthy and PMeV-infected papaya plants were observed by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Healthy plants displayed a smooth surface with practically no roughness of the leaf midribs and the latex and a higher adhesion force than infected plants. PMeV promotes changes in the leaf midribs and latex, making them more fragile and susceptible to breakage. These changes, which are associated with increased water uptake and internal pressure in laticifers, causes cell disruption that leads to spontaneous exudation of the latex and facilitates the spread of PMeV to other laticifers. These results provide new insights into the papaya-PMeV interaction that could be helpful for controlling papaya sticky disease.

Analysis of diterpenoid compounds from the latex of two Euphorbiaceae by liquid chromatography‒electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry.

The latex of Euphorbia papillosa A.St.-Hil. and Sapium glandulosum (L.) Morong was phytochemically investigated by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The results reveal the presence of tigliane-type diterpenoid compounds, particularly 12-deoxyphorbol esters, in both species. In addition, ingenane-type diterpene esters were found in the latex of E. papillosa. The latex of S. glandulosum showed only tigliane-type diterpenes, confirming the literature data on this genus. According to mass data, we are proposing the presence of 10 compounds derived from 12-deoxyphorbol monoesters and diesters, from one 12-deoxyphorbaldehyde, from two ingenol derivatives and from one nitrogen-containing phorbol ester in the latex of the analysed species. Considering that 12-deoxy tigliane diterpenes are described as antitumour and antiviral agents, these results indicate a pharmacological potential for these two Euphorbiaceae species.

Avaliação da qualidade de amostras comerciais de leite de janaguba (Himatanthus drasticus (Mart. ) Plumel) em Fortaleza – Ceará / Quality assessment of commercial samples of janaguba’s milk (Himatanthus drasticus (Mart. ) Plumel) in Fortaleza – Ceará.

RESUMO Os fitoterápicos à base de leite de janaguba (Himatanthus drasticus (Mart.) Plumel), usados para o tratamento de câncer, úlcera gástrica e outras doenças, são muito vendidos em mercados públicos de Fortaleza (CE). No entanto, registros mencionam que é comum a troca deste leite por látex de mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa Gomes). O trabalho objetivou avaliar a qualidade físico-química, química e microbiológica de amostras comerciais do leite de janaguba. Dez amostras comerciais foram adquiridas de um mercado de Fortaleza; quatro amostras autênticas de látex de janaguba foram obtidas da chapada do Araripe e uma amostra de látex de mangabeira foi obtida em Paracuru (CE). Foram determinados o aspecto geral, densidade, pH, resíduo seco, volume de sedimentação, perfil cromatográfico e qualidade microbiológica das amostras. Os resultados mostraram elevada contaminação microbiológica nas preparações comerciais e adulteração em seis destas amostras, o que aponta a urgente implantação de uma efetiva farmacovigilância dos fitoterápicos a fim de tornar seu consumo mais seguro e racional.

ABSTRACT The herbal medicines made from janaguba milk (Himatanthus drasticus (Mart.) Plumel), used to treat gastric ulcer, cancer and other diseases, and arewidely sold in the public markets of Fortaleza (CE). However, records mention that it is common to make fake copies of the milk by using mango tree latex (Hanconia speciosa Gomes). This study aimed to evaluate the chemical, physical-chemical and microbiological quality of commercial samples of janaguba milk. Ten commercial samples were purchased from a Fortaleza market; four authentic samples of janaguba latex were obtained from the Araripe plateau, and one mango tree latex sample was obtained in Paracuru (CE). We determined the general appearance, density, pH, dry residue, sedimentation volume, chromatographic profile and microbiological qualities. Results showed high microbiological contamination in the commercial preparations and evidence of tampering in six of these samples, which indicates the need for an urgent implementation of an effective pharmacovigilance strategy for herbal medicines in order to make its consumption more secure and rational.

Simultaneous qualitation and quantitation of natural trans-1,4-polyisoprene from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver by gel permeation chromatography (GPC).

Natural trans-1,4-polyisoprene (TPI) as a functional biomaterial has aroused great interest for rubber industrial product use. Here, we proposed a method that enables simultaneous analysis of the content and molecular-weight distribution (MWD) of natural TPI by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The natural TPIs were collected from leaves, fruit coatings and bark of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver (E. ulmoides) through toluene extraction followed by ethanol purification. The results of TPI contents from leaves and fruit coatings were shown ca. 3.5% and 13.8%, respectively. Accordingly, limits of detection (LODs) of TPI were 0.58mg/mL from leaves and 0.47mg/mL from fruit coatings. The MWDs of TPI demonstrated a bimodal distribution from leaves, a unimodal distribution from bark, and a unimodal distribution with a tiny peak shoulder from fruit coatings. In real-life E. ulmoides analysis, the results from three independent methods (GPC, gravimetric method, and infrared spectroscopy) were obtained with good consistency.

Molecular profile of sensitization in subjects with short occupational exposure to latex.

OBJECTIVES: We examined the prevalence of latex allergy in subjects with occupational exposure to latex allergens for less than 5 years, determining the disease spectrum in symptomatic workers. We identified the most frequent molecular allergens by Immuno- CAP (ICAP), correlating the findings with skin prick test (SPT) results. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seven hundred twenty-three healthcare students using latex gloves on a regular basis were invited to participate in a baseline questionnaire screening. An ICAP serum test was performed only when a possible latex allergy was indicated by the questionnaire. RESULTS: The total number of participants responding to the baseline survey was 619. Glove-related symptoms were indicated by 4% (N = 25) of the students. The most common symptom was contact dermatitis (N = 18, 72%). In 12 subjects, ICAP revealed a real sensitization to latex, with a recombinant latex allergen profile showing a high frequency for rHev b 6.01 specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) (N = 9, 67%). In these individuals, skin symptoms were more prevalent than other types (88%). CONCLUSIONS: The combined positivity for rHev b 6.01, rHev 8 and rHev b 5 determined by ICAP identified 92% of latex-allergic subjects with short-term exposure to latex.

Characterization of the thickness and distribution of latex coatings on polyvinylidene chloride beads by backscattered electron imaging.

Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) co-polymer resins are commonly formulated with a variety of solid additives for the purpose of processing or stabilization. A homogeneous distribution of these additives during handling and processing is important. The Dow Chemical Company developed a process to incorporate solid materials in latex form onto PVDC resin bead surfaces using a coagulation process. In this context, we present a method to characterize the distribution and thickness of these latex coatings. The difference in backscattered electron signal from the higher mean atomic number PVDC core and lower atomic number latex coating in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging using a range of accelerating voltages was used to characterize latex thickness and distribution across large numbers of beads quickly and easily. Monte Carlo simulations were used to quantitatively estimate latex thickness as a function of brightness in backscatter electron images. This thickness calibration was validated by cross-sectioning using a focused ion-beam SEM. Thicknesses from 100 nm up to about 1.3 µm can be determined using this method.