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

This work aimed to investigate candidate biological control agents against the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus by studying three entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) isolates from two species, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (isolates LPP30 and HP88) and Heterorhabditis baujardi (isolate LPP7). The study comprised the pharmacotechnical development of four test formulations, and their biological evaluation, in three stages: 1) selection of the fittest EPN isolate at 16 ± 1 °C after 120 h of incorporation in the formulations; 2) determination of the effects of temperature and incubation time on the survival of the selected isolate in formulations; 3) evaluation of the in vitro efficacy (infectivity) of the selected EPN formulations and their components against R. microplus females after 72 h exposure.

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

The cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, has caused serious harm to livestock raising in Brazil, considering the costs of controlling it, loss of revenue due to smaller production of milk and meat, and damage to leather, in addition to transmitting diseases. The use of medicinal plants is considered an alternative to the recurring resistance to chemicals. Due to the need for efficient alternatives with less environmental impact, this study aimed to develop contact formulations with essential oils from the Java citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) plants and to assess in vitro the effects in different stages of the tick cycle.

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

Sesame oil is widely consumed as nutritious food, cooking oil, and in pharmaceuticals and food. In this study, the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of the sesame oil and sesamin were investigated. The sesame oil and sesamin reduced the number of abdominal contortions at the doses 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg.

[Prescriptions for anorectic psychotropic drugs in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil].

Obesity is a serious public health issue of epidemic proportions. Although drug therapy is one of the therapeutic approaches, it should be preceded by a change in eating habits along with regular exercise. This study assessed prescription of such drugs in 2009, in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Preparation of dry extract of Mikania glomerata Sprengel (Guaco) and determination of its coumarin levels by spectrophotometry and HPLC-UV.

Guaco (Mikania glomerata Sprengel) syrup is one of the most popular herbal medicines used to treat the symptoms of asthmatic bronchitis, cough and hoarseness. The coumarin 2H-1-benzopyran-2-one, is one of the major constituents of Guaco and contributes to its pharmacological effects. The pharmaceutical capsule form of dry extract of Guaco is recommended by the Brazilian Program of Medicinal Plants and Herbal Medicines and used in primary health care.