Encapsulation of human serum albumin in submicrometer magnetic poly(lactide-co-glycolide) particles as a model system for targeted drug delivery

Two types of iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized by coprecipitation of Fe(II) and Fe(III) chlorides: water-dispersible γ-Fe2O3 and organic solvent-dispersible oleic acid-coated Fe3O4 particles. The nanoparticles, together with human serum albumin (HSA) serving as a model for a protein-type drug, were then incorporated in poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) particles using double emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Morphology, size and particle size distribution of the resulting particles was analyzed by electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. Iron oxide and HSA encapsulating efficiency was determined by Prussian Blue staining and micro-BCA assay, respectively

Preparation of Veterinary Premix with Dual Active Ingredients in Granular Form

The aim of the study was to investigate the preparation of granular veterinary premix containing two different antibiotics by fluid bed granulation process. The particle size and density of the active ingredients were investigated for the proper selection of the filler material. The used antibiotics were tylosin tartarate and colistin sulfate, while isomalt sugar alcohol and cellulose materials were selected as filler and binder, respectively. The colistin sulfate was fed together with the binder solution because of its low density, fine particle size and relatively low (1.2%) concentration in the product. The type and concentration of the binder in its solution, the feeding rate and the total amount of added binder solution were optimized for obtaining dust free granules with desirable abrasion resistance and good flowability. The active ingredient content for both antibiotics was preserved even at the elevated temperature applied during the fluid granulation process

Geobody architecture of continental carbonates: “Gazda” travertine quarry (Süttő, Gerecse Hills, Hungary)

The Gazda quarry is one of the largest outcrops of the present-day Süttő travertine complex that is situated close to the town of Süttő (Hungary), in the Pannonian Basin. Sedimentological and petrographical analyses show that the Gazda travertine body is built out of phytohermal, wavy laminated, massive and flat laminated travertine lithofacies representing reed mound, slope, lacustrine and palustrine depositional environments, respectively. Based on petrographic analyses, the following three main textural features were recognized that allow to describe the most common microscopic features: (1) micrite textures; (2) micritic coatings and crusts; and (3) different types of clasts. Each major lithofacies is characterized by a particular association of these textural types. The geometry of the travertine beds follows the antecedent land-surface, a NE-SW striking pre-Pleistocene valley. It is proposed that in this valley travertine precipitation took place along a gently sloping terrain. The Gazda travertine system was fed by at least two groundwater-springs. One of them was located NE of the quarry from which waters were flowing along the axis of the valley. The other source was located to the East of the Gazda quarry and waters joined the main water-course along the valley. Closest to the confluence, a phytohermal mound developed with lateral slope and eventual pond depositional systems. Onlapping and interfingering with the flat laminated lithofacies indicate alternating activity of the two springs. Fractures observed in the quarry are mainly related to postdepositional gravitational sliding, however, neotectonic forces resulting in SE–NW tension also played a role in the formation of the fractures. Stable oxygen and carbon isotope analyses show that water temperature was approximately 25°C. Petrographic studies indicate that only syn-diagenetic processes affected the precipitates. Therefore the original stable oxygen isotope signatures, characteristic of the depositional environment, were preserved. Detailed sedimentological and geochemical study of the Gazda travertine complex allowed small-scale facies characterization providing information about the ancient depositional environment and the heterogeneous nature of these carbonates

Reduced physical fitness in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

SUMMARY Aims: To evaluate motor performance and cardiorespiratory function in youths with type 1 diabetes in comparison with age-matched control group; and to analyse the influence of physical activity level, anthropometric and physical fitness parameters on long-term metabolic control. Methods: 106 youths with diabetes and 130 healthy youths aged 8-18 were assessed by the Eurofit Test Battery regarding motor performances, cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), skinfold thickness, and body mass index. Physical activity level was assessed through the use of questionnaires. Predictors of physical fitness and metabolic control were determined with regression analysis. Results: There were no differences either in body composition or in physical activity level, but younger girls with diabetes had impaired results in speed of upper limb movement, abdominal muscle strength, upper body strength, running speed and VO2max; older girls with diabetes had poor results in speed of upper limb movement, abdominal muscle strength, upper body strength and VO2max. Younger boys with diabetes had impaired results in speed of upper limb movement, flexibility, static strength of the hand and abdominal muscle strength; and older boys with diabetes had poor results in speed of upper limb movement, flexibility, abdominal muscle strength, upper body strength and VO2max. Older age, female gender, higher skinfold thickness, lower physical activity level and higher HbA1c were significant independent predictors of poorer VO2max. Better VO2max proved to be the single predictor of favourable HbA1c. Conclusions: Youths with diabetes have reduced fitness parameters. Efforts should be carried out to improve physical fitness as part of treatment and care of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes