No abstract

The graphene aerogels' potential for use as both a hemostatic agent and dermal delivery system has scarcely been investigated. In this study, we used a sol-gel process for generating dry and stable composite aerogels based on graphene oxide (GO) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Furthermore, we incorporated natural extract of País grape seed (SD) and skin (SK), rich in proanthocyanidins (PAs or condensed tannins). The effect of the incorporation of the grape extracts was investigated in relation to the aerogels' structure, coagulation performance and the release of the extracts. The results demonstrated that they have a porous structure and low density, capable of absorbing water and blood. The incorporation of 12% (w/w) of PA extracts into the aerogel increased the negative zeta potential of the material by 33% (-18.3 ± 1.3 mV), and the coagulation time was reduced by 37% and 28% during the first 30 and 60 s of contact between the aerogel and whole blood, respectively. The release of extracts from the GO-PVA-SD and GO-PVA-SK aerogels was prolonged to 3 h with 20%, probably due to the existence of strong binding between PAs andGO-PVA, both characterized by the presence of aromatic and hydroxyl groups that can form noncovalent bonds but are strong and stable enough to avoid a greater release into the medium. This study provides a new GO-based aerogel, which has a great potential use in the field of dermal delivery, wound healing and/or the treatment of trauma bleeding.

No abstract

Continuous photoperiod is extensively used in fish farming, to regulate the reproductive cycle, despite evidence suggesting that artificial photoperiods can act as a stressor and impair the immune system. We evaluated the potential effects of an artificial photoperiod on mucus components: lysozyme and mucin, in juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) after exposure for one month to natural photoperiod (LD12:12) or constant light (LD24:0) artificial photoperiod. For each treatment, we assessed changes in peripheral blood cells (erythrocytes and leukocytes) and skin mucus component concentrations. Our results show a decrease in lysozyme concentration, while mucin levels are increased. Similarly, we find elevated monocytes and polymorphonuclears under constant light photoperiod. These findings suggest that LD24:0 regulates lysozyme, mucin, and leukocytes, implying that artificial photoperiods could be a stressful.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract