Vanishing theorems, higher order mean curvatures and index estimates for self-shrinkers

In this paper we study non-compact self-shrinkers first in general codimension and then in codimension 1. We respectively prove some vanishing theorems giving rise to rigidity of the self-shrinker and then estimates involving the higher order mean curvatures for the oriented case. The paper ends with some results on their index when considered as appropriate -minimal hypersurfaces

Antifungal activity of topical microemulsion containing a thiophene derivative

Fungal infections have become a major problem of worldwide concern. Yeasts belonging to the Candida genus and the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans are responsible for different clinical manifestations, especially in immunocompromised patients. Antifungal therapies are currently based on a few chemotherapeutic agents that have problems related to effectiveness and resistance profiles. Microemulsions are isotropic, thermodynamically stable transparent systems of oil, water and surfactant that can improve the solubilization of lipophilic drugs. Taking into account the need for more effective and less toxic drugs along with the potential of thiophene derivatives as inhibitors of pathogenic fungi growth, this study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of a thiophene derivative (5CN05) embedded in a microemulsion (ME). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the microdilution method using amphotericin B as a control. The formulations tested (ME- blank and ME-5CN05) showed physico-chemical properties that would allow their use by the topical route. 5CN05 as such exhibited moderate or weak antifungal activity against Candida species (MIC = 270-540 g.mL-1) and good activity against C. neoformans (MIC = 17 g.mL-1). Candida species were susceptible to ME-5CN05 (70-140 g.mL-1), but C. neoformans was much more, presenting a MIC value of 2.2 g.mL-1. The results of this work proved promising for the pharmaceutical industry, because they suggest an alternative therapy against C. neoformans

Production of natural astaxanthin by Phaffia rhodozyma and its potential application in textile dyeing

Microbial astaxanthin are preferred over the synthetic equivalent, not only to impart color in a wide variety of products but also to provide bioactive antioxidants nutrients to human health. The yeast Phaffia rhodozyma is considered as one of the most important natural sources of astaxanthin. The present research work was designed to enhance the biosynthesis of astaxanthin by using synthetic substrates and moving from orbital shaker to 4 L stirred tank bioreactor (STB). Moreover, it was also evaluated the potential of astaxanthin-rich extracts in dyeing textile fabrics. Under optimal conditions in STB [carbon source (glucose/xylose) and aeration rate (1 vvm) with constant light irradiation], the process production achieved a 503.66 μg/gDCW (+ 48.99%) of astaxanthin compared to the orbital shakers (256.88 μg/gDCW). The in vitro antioxidant activity and potential cytotoxicity assessment of astaxanthin-rich extracts was evaluated, indicating the potential of astaxanthin to be used as a natural dyeing agent for textiles, envisioning the replacement of synthetic colorants by natural counterpart.Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)Escuela de Agronomía Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas y de los Alimentos Pontificia Universidad Católica de ValparaísoLaboratory of Biotechnology School of Chemistry and Food Federal University of Rio Grande, RSSão Paulo State University (UNESP) School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Department of Bioprocess Engineering and Biotechnology, São PauloBioprocess Engineering Laboratory School of Chemistry and Food Federal University of Rio Grande, RSDepartment of Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Technology School of Pharmaceutical Sciences University of São Paulo, São PauloSão Paulo State University (UNESP) School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Department of Bioprocess Engineering and Biotechnology, São PauloFAPESP: 2019/15493–9FAPESP: 2020/08655–0FAPESP: 2021/06686–8CNPq: 312463/2021–