Influence of solvents on the bond strength of resin sealer to intraradicular dentin after retreatment

Abstract This study evaluated the removal of filling material with ProTaper Universal Rotary Retreatment system (PTR) combined with solvents and the influence of solvents on the bond strength (PBS) of sealer to intraradicular dentin after canal reobturation. Roots were endodontically treated and distributed to five groups (n = 12). The control group was not retreated. In the four experimental groups, canals were retreated with PTR alone or in combination with xylol, orange oil, and eucalyptol. After filling material removal, two specimens of each group were analysed by SEM and µCT to verify the presence of filling remnants on root canal walls. The other roots were reobturated and sectioned in 1-mm-thick dentin slices that were subjected to the push-out test. Data were analysed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05). SEM and µCT analysis revealed that all retreatment techniques left filling remnants on canal walls. The control group (3.47 ± 1.21) presented significantly higher (p < 0.05) PBS than the experimental groups. The groups retreated with PTR alone (2.59 ± 0.99) or combined with xylol (2.54 ± 0.77) and orange oil (2.32 ± 0.93) presented similar bond strength (p > 0.05), and differed significantly from the group with eucalyptol (1.89 ± 0.63). The solvents reduced the PBS of the sealer to dentin and no retreatment technique promoted complete removal of filling material.

Dissolution of a mineral trioxide aggregate sealer in endodontic solvents compared to conventional sealers

Abstract The aim of this study is to evaluate the solubility of a Mineral Trioxide Aggregate sealer (MTA-Fillapex) compared with five other sealers, calcium hydroxide (Sealapex), resin (Realseal), zinc oxide-eugenol (Tubli-Seal), and two epoxy resins (AH-26 and AH-Plus), in chloroform and eucalyptoil in static and ultrasonic environments. Samples of each sealer were prepared (n = 180) and then divided into 12 groups that were immersed in solvents for 5 and 10 min in static and ultrasonic environments. The mean weight loss was determined, and the values were compared using Student's t-test, One-way ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (p < 0.05). In chloroform, MTA-Fillapex, AH-26, and Sealapex displayed moderate solubility with no significant difference in dissolution (p = 0.125); however, their dissolution was significantly lower than that of AH-Plus (p < 0.001), which was almost fully dissolved after 10 minutes. Realseal was significantly less soluble than all sealers (p < 0.001). In eucalyptoil, MTA-Fillapex showed low solubility, as all of the sealers did, but Tubli-Seal was significantly more soluble than other sealers (p < 0.001). Using ultrasonic activation resulted in a significantly higher dissolution rate in chloroform for all sealers except MTA-Fillapex after 10 min (p = 0.226). In eucalyptoil, ultrasonic activation significantly increased the dissolution rate of all sealers except MTA-Fillapex after 5 and 10 min, Sealapex at 10 min, and AH-Plus at 5 min (p > 0.05). In conclusion, MTA-Fillapex was not sufficiently dissolved in either solvent. Ultrasonic activation had limited effectiveness on MTA-Fillapex dissolution, whereas it significantly increased the efficiency of solvents in dissolving a number of endodontic sealers.

Hydroxylation of 1,8-cineole by Mucor ramannianus and Aspergillus niger

The monoterpenoid 1,8-cineole is obtained from the leaves of Eucalyptus globulus and it has important biological activities. It is a cheap natural substrate because it is a by-product of the Eucalyptus cultivation for wood and pulp production. In this study, it was evaluated the potential of three filamentous fungi in the biotransformation of 1,8-cineole. The study was divided in two steps: first, reactions were carried out with 1,8-cineole at 1 g/L for 24 h; afterwards, reactions were carried out with substrate at 5 g/L for 5 days. The substrate was hydroxylated into 2-exo-hydroxy-1,8-cineole and 3-exo-hydroxy-1,8-cineole by fungi Mucor ramannianus and Aspergillus niger with high stereoselectivity. Trichoderma harzianum was also tested but no transformation was detected. M. ramannianus led to higher than 99% of conversion within 24 h with a starting high substrate concentration (1 g/L). When substrate was added at 5 g/L, only M. ramannianus was able to catalyze the reaction, but the conversion level was 21.7% after 5 days. Both products have defined stereochemistry and could be used as chiral synthons. Furthermore, biological activity has been described for 3-exo-hydroxy-1,8-cineol. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of M. ramannianus in this reaction.

Chemical composition and antibacterial activities of seven Eucalyptus species essential oils leaves

BACKGROUND: In this paper, we have studied the essential oils chemical composition of the leaves of seven Eucalyptus species developed in Tunisia. Eucalyptus leaves were picked from trees growing in different arboretums in Tunisia. Choucha and Mrifeg arboretums located in Sedjnene, region of Bizerte (Choucha: E. maideni, E. astrengens et E. cinerea; Mrifeg : E. leucoxylon), Korbous arboretums located in the region of Nabeul, North East Tunisia with sub-humid bioclimate, (E. lehmani), Souiniet-Ain Drahem arboretum located in region of Jendouba (E. sideroxylon, E. bicostata). Essential oils were individually tested against a large panel of microorganisms includingStaphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6539), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC29212), Listeria ivanovii (RBL 30), Bacillus cereus (ATCC11778). RESULTS: The yield of essential oils ranged from 1.2% to 3% (w/w) for the different Eucalyptus species. All essential oils contain α-pinene, 1,8-cineol and pinocarveol-trans for all Eucalyptus species studied. The 1,8-cineol was the major compound in all species (49.07 to 83.59%). Diameter of inhibition zone of essential oils of Eucalyptus species varied from 10 to 29 mm. The largest zone of inhibition was obtained for Bacillus cereus (E. astrengens) and the lowest for Staphylococcus aureus (E. cinerea). The essential oils from E. maideni, E. astrengens, E. cinerea (arboretum of Bizerte), E. bicostata(arboretum of Aindraham) showed the highest antibacterial activity against Listeria ivanovii and Bacillus cereus. CONCLUSION: The major constituents of Eucalyptus leaves essential oils are 1,8-cineol (49.07 to 83.59%) and α-pinene (1.27 to 26.35%). The essential oils from E. maideni, E. astrengens, E. cinerea, E. bicostatashowed the highest antibacterial activity against Listeria ivanovii and Bacillus cereus, they may have potential applications in food and pharmaceutical products.

Análise das propriedades químicas, biológicas e antimicrobianas de solventes endodônticos / Analysis of chemical, biological and antimicrobial properties of endodontic solvents

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades químicas, biológicas e antimicrobianas dos solventes endodônticos, Citrol, Eucaliptol, d-Limoneno, Xilol e Endosolv E. Dentre os testes químicos, foram avaliados a microdureza dentinária, onde utilizamos blocos de dentina bovina que foram expostos aos solventes por 2 períodos, 5 e 15 min e submetidos ao teste de microdureza. Outro teste químico foi a capacidade de dissolução dos materiais obturadores pelo teste de imersão nos solventes em 3 períodos, 2, 5 e 15 min. Para essa avaliação foram, confeccionados corpos de prova dos cimentos, AH Plus, Acroseal, Sealer 26, Endofill, MTA Fillapex e RealSeal SE e dos cones de guta-percha estandardizado Dentsply (DP), ProTaper e Resilon. Um terceiro teste, foi realizado para avaliar a capacidade de desobturação dos canais radiculares e o efeito da agitação ultrassônica dos solventes endodônticos após a desobturação. Sessenta incisivos centrais superiores foram divididos em 6 grupos sendo um para cada solvente (n=10) mais um grupo controle (solução fisiológica). Todos dentes foram instrumentados e obturados pela mesma técnica e escaneados no Micro-CT. Os dentes foram então desobturados utilizando ProTaper Retratamento/ProTaper Universal como técnica para todos grupos, associada a um dos solventes e foram escaneados novamente para a avaliação do volume de material remanescente após a desobturação. Cada um dos dentes foi desobturado e preenchido com o mesmo solvente utilizado na desobturação. Cada solvente foi agitado pelo ultrassom por 1 min e novamente foram escaneados e avaliados os volumes restantes dos materiais nos canais radiculares. Na avaliação biológica, utilizamos o teste de citotoxicidade com células de camundongo NIH-3T3 pelo ensaio MTT. As culturas celulares foram plaqueadas e submetidas aos solventes diluídos nas concentrações de 0.5 a 2.5%, e avaliados quanto à viabilidade celular. Por fim o último teste foi o antimicrobiano, avaliado pelo teste de...

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical, biological and antimicrobial properties of the Endodontic solvents, Citrol, Eucalyptol, d-Limonene, Xylene and Endosolv E. First chemical properties analysis were evaluated by dentin microhardness, where we used bovine dentin blocks that were exposed to the solvents in 2 periods, 5 and 15 min and subjected to the microhardness test. Second test was to evaluate the ability of endodontic solvents to dissolve root-filling materials by immersion test in, 2, 5 and 15 minutes. Specimens of sealers, AH Plus, Acroseal, Sealer 26, Endofill, MTA Fillapex an RealSeal SE and guttapercha Dentsply (DP), ProTaper and Resilon points were prepared and evaluated in the three periods. Next test was conducted to evaluate the ability of solvents to desobturate root canals filled and analyse the effect of the ultrasonic passive agitation of solvents after canal unfill procedure. Sixty maxillary central incisors were prepared and obturated by same technique and randomly divided into 6 groups, one for each solvent (n=10) and a control group (saline solution). Teeth were scanned in Microcomputed Tomography (Micro-CT), unfilled with ProTaper Retratament/Protaper Universal with one of the solvents and scanned again. The residual root-fillings volumes were analysed and all teeth root canal were filled with the same solvent used in unfilling process and were passive-ultrasonically agitated (PUl) for 1 min. All teeth were scanned again in Micro-CT and data were analysed. Biological properties assessments were evaluated by cytotoxicity test with NIH-3T3 mouse cells by MTT assay. Cell cultures were subjected to diluted solvents at concentrations of 0.5 to 2.5%, and cell viability were analysed. Last evaluation in our study was the antimicrobial test. A total of 60 bovine dentin specimens infected intraorally were exposed for 5 min in direct contact to one of the solvents evaluated. After that, the dentin blocks with biofilms were...

Análise das propriedades químicas, biológicas e antimicrobianas de solventes endodônticos / Analysis of chemical, biological and antimicrobial properties of endodontic solvents

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades químicas, biológicas e antimicrobianas dos solventes endodônticos, Citrol, Eucaliptol, d-Limoneno, Xilol e Endosolv E. Dentre os testes químicos, foram avaliados a microdureza dentinária, onde utilizamos blocos de dentina bovina que foram expostos aos solventes por 2 períodos, 5 e 15 min e submetidos ao teste de microdureza. Outro teste químico foi a capacidade de dissolução dos materiais obturadores pelo teste de imersão nos solventes em 3 períodos, 2, 5 e 15 min. Para essa avaliação foram, confeccionados corpos de prova dos cimentos, AH Plus, Acroseal, Sealer 26, Endofill, MTA Fillapex e RealSeal SE e dos cones de guta-percha estandardizado Dentsply (DP), ProTaper e Resilon. Um terceiro teste, foi realizado para avaliar a capacidade de desobturação dos canais radiculares e o efeito da agitação ultrassônica dos solventes endodônticos após a desobturação. Sessenta incisivos centrais superiores foram divididos em 6 grupos sendo um para cada solvente (n=10) mais um grupo controle (solução fisiológica). Todos dentes foram instrumentados e obturados pela mesma técnica e escaneados no Micro-CT. Os dentes foram então desobturados utilizando ProTaper Retratamento/ProTaper Universal como técnica para todos grupos, associada a um dos solventes e foram escaneados novamente para a avaliação do volume de material remanescente após a desobturação. Cada um dos dentes foi desobturado e preenchido com o mesmo solvente utilizado na desobturação. Cada solvente foi agitado pelo ultrassom por 1 min e novamente foram escaneados e avaliados os volumes restantes dos materiais nos canais radiculares. Na avaliação biológica, utilizamos o teste de citotoxicidade com células de camundongo NIH-3T3 pelo ensaio MTT. As culturas celulares foram plaqueadas e submetidas aos solventes diluídos nas concentrações de 0.5 a 2.5%, e avaliados quanto à viabilidade celular. Por fim o último teste foi o antimicrobiano, avaliado pelo teste de...

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical, biological and antimicrobial properties of the Endodontic solvents, Citrol, Eucalyptol, d-Limonene, Xylene and Endosolv E. First chemical properties analysis were evaluated by dentin microhardness, where we used bovine dentin blocks that were exposed to the solvents in 2 periods, 5 and 15 min and subjected to the microhardness test. Second test was to evaluate the ability of endodontic solvents to dissolve root-filling materials by immersion test in, 2, 5 and 15 minutes. Specimens of sealers, AH Plus, Acroseal, Sealer 26, Endofill, MTA Fillapex an RealSeal SE and guttapercha Dentsply (DP), ProTaper and Resilon points were prepared and evaluated in the three periods. Next test was conducted to evaluate the ability of solvents to desobturate root canals filled and analyse the effect of the ultrasonic passive agitation of solvents after canal unfill procedure. Sixty maxillary central incisors were prepared and obturated by same technique and randomly divided into 6 groups, one for each solvent (n=10) and a control group (saline solution). Teeth were scanned in Microcomputed Tomography (Micro-CT), unfilled with ProTaper Retratament/Protaper Universal with one of the solvents and scanned again. The residual root-fillings volumes were analysed and all teeth root canal were filled with the same solvent used in unfilling process and were passive-ultrasonically agitated (PUl) for 1 min. All teeth were scanned again in Micro-CT and data were analysed. Biological properties assessments were evaluated by cytotoxicity test with NIH-3T3 mouse cells by MTT assay. Cell cultures were subjected to diluted solvents at concentrations of 0.5 to 2.5%, and cell viability were analysed. Last evaluation in our study was the antimicrobial test. A total of 60 bovine dentin specimens infected intraorally were exposed for 5 min in direct contact to one of the solvents evaluated. After that, the dentin blocks with biofilms were...

Women survivors of intimate partner violence: the difficult transition to independence / Mujeres supervivientes de la violencia ejercida por sus parejas: la difícil transición hacia la autonomía / Mulheres sobreviventes de violência exercida por parceiros íntimos – a difícil transição para a autonomia

Objective To understand the trajectories that women go through from entering into to leaving relationships involving intimate partner violence (IPV), and identify the stages of the transition process. Method We utilized a constructivist paradigm based on grounded theory. We ensured that the ethical guidelines of the World Health Organization for research on domestic violence were followed. The analysis focused on narratives of 28 women survivors of IPV, obtained from in-depth interviews. Results The results showed that the trajectories experienced by women were marked by gender issues, (self) silencing, hope and suffering, which continued after the end of the IPV. Conclusion The transition process consists of four stages: entry - falls in love and becomes trapped; maintenance - silences own self, consents and remains in the relationship; decides to leave - faces the problems and struggles to be rescued; (re) balance - (re) finds herself with a new life. This (long) process was developed by wanting (and being able to have) self-determination. .

Objetivo Conhecer as trajetórias que as mulheres percorrem desde a entrada até à saída de relações de violência exercida por parceiros íntimos (VPI), e identificar as fases do processo de transição. Método Utilizou-se um paradigma construtivista com recurso à grounded theory. Salvaguardaram-se as orientações éticas da OMS em matéria de investigação sobre violência doméstica. A análise centrou-se em narrativas de 28 mulheres sobreviventes de VPI, obtidas em entrevistas em profundidade. Resultados Referem que as trajetórias percorridas pelas mulheres foram atravessadas por questões de género, (auto)silenciamento, esperança e sofrimento, o que ultrapassou o fim da VPI. Conclusión O processo de transição é constituído por quatro fases: entrada - enamora-se e fica aprisionada; manutenção - auto-silencia-se, consente e permanece na relação; decisão de saída - enfrenta o problema e luta pelo resgate; (re)equilíbrio - (re)encontra-se com uma nova vida. Este (longo) processo foi atravessado por querer (e poder) autodeterminar-se. .

Objetivo Conhecer as trajetórias que as mulheres percorrem desde a entrada até à saída de relações de violência exercida por parceiros íntimos (VPI), e identificar as fases do processo de transição. Método Utilizou-se um paradigma construtivista com recurso à grounded theory. Salvaguardaram-se as orientações éticas da OMS em matéria de investigação sobre violência doméstica. A análise centrou-se em narrativas de 28 mulheres sobreviventes de VPI, obtidas em entrevistas em profundidade. Resultados Referem que as trajetórias percorridas pelas mulheres foram atravessadas por questões de género, (auto)silenciamento, esperança e sofrimento, o que ultrapassou o fim da VPI. Conclusão O processo de transição é constituído por quatro fases: entrada - enamora-se e fica aprisionada; manutenção - auto-silencia-se, consente e permanece na relação; decisão de saída - enfrenta o problema e luta pelo resgate; (re)equilíbrio - (re)encontra-se com uma nova vida. Este (longo) processo foi atravessado por querer (e poder) autodeterminar-se. .

Simultaneous interstitial pneumonitis and cardiomyopathy induced by venlafaxine / Pneumonite intersticial e miocardiopatia simultâneas induzidas por venlafaxina

Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used as an antidepressant. Interindividual variability and herb-drug interactions can lead to drug-induced toxicity. We report the case of a 35-year-old female patient diagnosed with synchronous pneumonitis and acute cardiomyopathy attributed to venlafaxine. The patient sought medical attention due to dyspnea and dry cough that started three months after initiating treatment with venlafaxine for depression. The patient was concomitantly taking Centella asiatica and Fucus vesiculosus as phytotherapeutic agents. Chest CT angiography and chest X-ray revealed parenchymal lung disease (diffuse micronodules and focal ground-glass opacities) and simultaneous dilated cardiomyopathy. Ecocardiography revealed a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 21%. A thorough investigation was carried out, including BAL, imaging studies, autoimmune testing, right heart catheterization, and myocardial biopsy. After excluding other etiologies and applying the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale, a diagnosis of synchronous pneumonitis/cardiomyopathy associated with venlafaxine was assumed. The herbal supplements taken by the patient have a known potential to inhibit cytochrome P450 enzyme complex, which is responsible for the metabolization of venlafaxine. After venlafaxine discontinuation, there was rapid improvement, with regression of the radiological abnormalities and normalization of the LVEF. This was an important case of drug-induced cardiopulmonary toxicity. The circumstantial intake of inhibitors of the CYP2D6 isoenzyme and the presence of a CYP2D6 slow metabolism phenotype might have resulted in the toxic accumulation of venlafaxine and the subsequent clinical manifestations. Here, we also discuss why macrophage-dominant phospholipidosis was the most likely mechanism of toxicity in this case.

A venlafaxina é um inibidor de recaptação de serotonina e noradrenalina utilizado como antidepressivo. A variabilidade individual ou interações entre fitoterápicos e fármacos podem causar toxicidade induzida por drogas. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente de 35 anos diagnosticada com pneumonite intersticial e miocardiopatia dilatada atribuídas à venlafaxina. A paciente procurou atendimento médico devido a dispneia e tosse seca, que começaram três meses após iniciar tratamento com venlafaxina para depressão. Concomitantemente tomava suplementos fitoterápicos contendo Centella asiatica e Fucus vesiculosus. A radiografia e a CT de tórax revelaram doença pulmonar parenquimatosa (micronódulos difusos e opacidades em vidro fosco) e, simultaneamente, foi diagnosticada uma miocardiopatia por ecocardiograma, que revelou uma fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda (FEVE) de 21%. Uma investigação ampla foi realizada, incluindo LBA, estudos de imagem, detecção de doenças autoimunes, cateterismo cardíaco direito e biópsia miocárdica. Após a exclusão de outras etiologias e a aplicação da Escala de Probabilidade de Reações Adversas a Medicamentos de Naranjo, foi assumido o diagnóstico de pneumonite/miocardiopatia síncronas associadas à venlafaxina. Já foi demonstrado que os suplementos fitoterápicos utilizados pela paciente podem inibir a isoenzima do complexo enzimático citocromo P450, responsável pelo metabolismo da venlafaxina. Após a descontinuação da venlafaxina, verificou-se uma rápida melhora clínica com regressão das alterações radiológicas e normalização da FEVE. Este é um importante caso de toxicidade cardiopulmonar induzida por droga. A administração circunstancial de inibidores da isoenzima CYP2D6 e a presença de um fenótipo de metabolização lenta de CYP2D6 podem ter resultado na acumulação tóxica da venlafaxina e na manifestação clínica subsequente. Aqui, é discutida a hipótese de a fosfolipidose macrofágica ser o mecanismo de toxicidade.

Essential oils from two Eucalyptus from Tunisia and their insecticidal action on Orgyia trigotephras (Lepidotera, Lymantriidae)

BACKGROUND: Essential oils extracted from aromatic and medicinal plants have many biological properties and are therefore an alternative to the use of synthetic products. The chemical composition of essential oils from two medicinal plants (Eucalyptus globulus and E. lehmannii) was determined and, their insecticidal effects on the third and fourth larval stages of Orgyia trigotephras were assessed. RESULTS: Larvae were collected from Jebel Abderrahmane (North-East of Tunisia), conserved in groups of 50/box (21 × 10 × 10 cm) at a temperature of 25°C. Larvae were tested for larvicidal activities of essential oils. Each oil was diluted in ethanol (96%) to prepare 3 test solutions (S1 = 0.05%, S2 = 0.10% and S3 = 0.50%). Essential oils were used for contact, ingestion and Olfactory actions and compared to reference products (Bacillus thuringiensis and Decis). Olfactory action of essential oils shows that larvae mortality is higher than contact action, lower than ingestion action. MTM and FTM of S3 of E. lehmannii were respectively 1 h 32 min and 1 h 39 min are higher than those of E. globulus (MTM = 51 min and FTM = 1 h 22 min 34 sec). Contact action of E. lehmannii oil shows low insecticidal activity compared to E. globulus. MTM are respectively (1 min 52 sec and 1 min 7 sec), FTM are (2 min 38 sec, 1 min 39 sec), are the shortest recorded for S3, on the third stage of larvae. The fourth stage of larvae, MTM are (2 min 20 sec and 2 min 9 sec), FTM are (3 min 25 sec, 3 min 19 sec). Ingestion action of essential oils is longer than the contact action, since the time of death exceeds 60 minutes for all species. CONCLUSION: Results shows that essential oils have a toxic action on nerves leading to a disruption of vital system of insects. High toxic properties make these plant-derived compounds suitable for incorporation in integrated pest management programs.

Warfarin: pharmacological profile and drug interactions with antidepressants / Varfarina: perfil farmacológico e interações medicamentosas com antidepressivos

Oral anticoagulants are among the drugs with the greatest number of drug interactions. The concomitant use of several medications is a common practice in patients with cardiovascular problems, who often also present with depression; therefore, the probability of an interaction occurring between warfarin and the antidepressants is high, and may result in increased or decreased anticoagulant activity. Since the possible interactions between these two classes of drugs have been poorly explored in literature, with a risk to the patients who use them, we reviewed the pharmacology of warfarin and its possible interactions with antidepressants. Of the antidepressants analyzed, those that showed relevant effects on the interaction with warfarin were, in decreasing order: paroxetine, venlafaxine, fluoxetine, and duloxetine.

Os anticoagulantes orais estão entre as drogas com maior número de interações medicamentosas. O uso concomitante de vários medicamentos é uma prática comum em pacientes com problemas cardiovasculares, os quais frequentemente também apresentam depressão; assim, a probabilidade de ocorrer alguma interação entre a varfarina e os antidepressivos é bem expressiva, podendo resultar em um aumento ou uma diminuição da atividade anticoagulante. Como as possíveis interações entre essas duas classes de medicamentos se mostraram pouco exploradas na literatura, com risco aos pacientes que fazem uso delas, revisamos a farmacologia da varfarina e suas possíveis interações com antidepressivos. Dos antidepressivos analisados, os que apresentaram efeitos relevantes na interação com a varfarina foram, em ordem decrescente: paroxetina, venlafaxina, fluoxetina e duloxetina.

The effects of antidepressants and pilocarpine on rat parotid glands: an immunohistochemical study

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of antidepressants and pilocarpine on the quantity of myoepithelial cells and on the proliferation index of the epithelial cells of rat parotid glands. INTRODUCTION: Hyposalivation, xerostomia, and alterations in saliva composition are important clinical side effects related to the use of antidepressants. METHODS: Ninety male Wistar rats were allocated to nine groups. The control groups received saline for 30 (group C30) or 60 days (group C60) or pilocarpine for 60 days (group Pilo). The experimental groups were administered fluoxetine (group F30) or venlafaxine for 30 days (group V30); fluoxetine (group FS60) or venlafaxine (group VS60) with saline for 60 days; or fluoxetine (group FP60) or venlafaxine (group VP60) with pilocarpine for 60 days. Parotid gland specimens were processed, and the immunohistochemical expression of calponin and proliferating cell nuclear anti-antigen on the myoepithelial and parenchymal cells, respectively, was evaluated. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), Tukey HSD and Games-Howell tests were applied to detect differences among groups (p<0.05). RESULTS: Compared with the controls, chronic exposure to antidepressants was associated with an increase in the number of positively stained cells for calponin. In addition, venlafaxine administration for 30 days was associated with an increase in the number of positively stained cells for proliferating cell nuclear anti-antigen. Fluoxetine and pilocarpine (group FP60) induced a significant decrease in the number of positively stained cells for calponin compared with all other groups. CONCLUSIONS: The number of positively stained cells for calponin increased after chronic administration of antidepressants. The proliferation index of the epithelial cells of rat parotid glands was not altered by the use of antidepressants for 60 days.

Effectiveness of three solvents and two associations of solvents on gutta-percha and resilon

This study evaluated the effectiveness of 3 solvents (Citrol orange oil, Eucalyptol and Tetrachloroethylene) and 2 associations of solvents (Citrol orange oil+Tetrachloroethylene and Eucalyptol+Tetrachloroethylene) on 3 types of gutta-percha (conventional, thermoplastic and EndoREZ) and Resilon. Ten discs (10 mm diameter x 1 mm thick) from each material were prepared using standard metallic molds. Each specimen was weighed to determinate its initial mass. The specimens were immersed in the solvents for 10 min, followed by immersion in distilled water for 20 min, and were then reweighed to obtain the final mass. The mean weight loss determined the solvent capacity. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test at 5 percent significance level. Tetrachloroethylene was the most effective on conventional gutta-percha (p<0.05). Tetrachloroethylene was also the most effective on thermoplastic gutta-percha, but it was not significantly different (p>0.05) from Eucalyptol+Tetrachloroethylene, Citrol+Tetrachloroethylene, and Citrol. All solvents and associations presented little effectiveness on Resilon. The association Eucalyptol+Tetrachloroethylene was the most effective on EndoREZ, but it did not differ significantly (p>0.05) from Citrol+Tetrachloroethylene and Tetrachloroethylene. All evaluated substances presented solvent action. Tetrachloroethylene improved the effectiveness of both Citrol and Eucalyptol.

Este estudo avaliou a efetividade de 3 solventes (Citrol, Eucaliptol e Tetracloroetileno) e 2 associações (Citrol+Tetracloroetileno e Eucaliptol+Tetracloroetileno) sobre 3 tipos de guta-percha (convencional, termoplástica e EndoREZ) e Resilon. Dez discos (10 mm x 1 mm) de cada material foram preparados utilizando moldes metálicos. Cada espécime foi pesado para determinar a massa inicial. Os mesmos foram imersos nas soluções testadas por 10 min e em água destilada por 20 min. Os espécimes foram novamente pesados, agora para determinar a massa final. A perda média de peso determinou a capacidade solvente. Os dados foram analisados pelos testes ANOVA e Tukey. O tetracloroetileno foi o mais efetivo sobre a guta-percha convencional (p<0,05). Ele também foi o mais efetivo sobre a guta-percha termoplástica, mas sem diferença significativa para o Eucaliptol+Tetracloroetileno, Citrol+Tetracloroetileno e o Citrol (p>0,05). Todos os solventes e associações apresentaram pequena ação sobre o Resilon. A associação Eucaliptol+Tetracloroetileno obteve o melhor resultado sobre o EndoREZ, mas sem diferença significativa para o Citrol+Tetracloroetileno e o Tetracloroetileno (p>0,05). Todas as soluções apresentam ação solvente. O Tetracloroetileno melhorou a efetividade do Citrol e do Eucaliptol.

Solvent capacity of different substances on gutta-percha and Resilon

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of 3 solvents (eucalyptol, orange oil, and xylol) on 2 types of gutta-percha (conventional and thermoplastic) and Resilon. Specimens (10 mm diameter x 1 mm thick; n=7 per condition) were prepared and maintained at 37ºC for 48 h. Each specimen was weighed on a precision scale every 24 h until its mass was stable, at which time the initial mass was determined. Specimens (n=7) were then immersed in the solvent solutions and, after 48 h at 37ºC, they were reweighed at 24- h intervals, until stabilization (final mass). The difference between the final and the initial mass determined the solvent capacity of each solvent. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5 percent significance level. The results demonstrated that xylol was the most effective, especially on conventional gutta-percha and Resilon (p<0.05). Eucalyptol and orange oil were more effective on thermoplastic gutta-percha than the other materials (p<0.05). It was concluded that all evaluated substances presented solvent action, but xylol was the most effective on both gutta-percha or Resilon.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a efetividade de 3 solventes em 2 tipos de guta-percha e no Resilon. Os materiais avaliados foram: guta convencional (Endo points), guta termoplastificada (Endo points TP) e cones de Resilon (RE). Amostras circulares medindo 10 mm de diâmetro e 1 mm de espessura foram preparadas, sendo mantidas a 37°C por 48 h. Cada amostra, com o anel metálico, foi pesada em uma balança de precisão a cada 24 h até estabilização da massa, quando a massa inicial era determinada. As amostras (n=7) foram imersas, então, nas soluções solventes avaliadas (eucaliptol, óleo de laranja, e xilol). Após 48 h a 37ºC, as amostras foram pesadas outra vez a cada 24 h, até a estabilização (massa final). A diferença entre a massa final e inicial determinou a capacidade solvente de cada material. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância em nível de significância de 5 por cento e teste de Tukey. Os resultados demonstraram que o xylol foi mais eficaz solvente, especialmente na guta convencional e no Resilon (p<0,05). O eucaliptol e o óleo de laranja foram mais eficazes sobre a guta thermoplastificada em relação aos outros materiais obturadores (p<0,05). Conclui-se que todas as substâncias testadas apresentam ação solvente, contudo, o xilol foi o mais efetivo sobre a guta-percha ou Resilon.

Pharmacoeconomics of antidepressants in moderate-to-severe depressive disorder in Colombia / Farmacoeconomía de antidepresivos en trastornos de depresión moderada e intensa en Colombia

OBJECTIVE: To compare three antidepressant drugs from different classes used in treating moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder (MDD) in Colombian adults. METHODS: Based on expert input, a decision-tree model was adapted for Colombia to analyze data over 6 months from the government-payer perspective. The cost-effectiveness of amitriptyline, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine was determined. The clinical outcome was remission of depression (a score <7 on the Hamilton Depression [HAM-D] scale or <12 on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale [MADRS]) after 8 weeks of treatment. Clinical data were obtained from the literature and costs from standard Colombian price lists. One-way and multivariate sensitivity analyses tested model robustness. RESULTS: Costs per patient (in 2007 US$) for treatment were: venlafaxine, $1 618; fluoxetine, $1 207; and amitriptyline, $1 068. Overall remission rates were 73.1 percent, 64.1 percent, and 71.3 percent, respectively. Amitriptyline dominated fluoxetine (i.e., it had lower costs and higher outcomes). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of venlafaxine over amitriptyline was US$ 31 595. The acquisition price of venlafaxine was the model's cost driver, comprising 53.4 percent of the total cost/patient treated, compared with 18.5 percent and 24.8 percent for fluoxetine and amitriptyline, respectively. For the others, hospitalization comprised the major cost (72.1 percent and 65.2 percent, respectively). Probabilistic (Monte Carlo) sensitivity analysis confirmed the original findings of the pharmacoeconomic model. CONCLUSIONS: Amitriptyline is cost-effective in comparison to fluoxetine and venlafaxine in Colombia. However, the cost of venlafaxine was estimated for the brand-name product, as generics were not currently available. These cost-effectiveness results can be substantially affected by the presence of generics or drug cost regulations.

OBJETIVO: Comparar tres medicamentos antidepresivos de diferentes clases empleados para tratar trastornos depresivos mayores moderados e intensos en adultos colombianos. MÉTODOS: A partir de los aportes de expertos se adaptó un modelo de árbol de decisión para Colombia a fin de analizar los datos de seis meses desde la perspectiva del gobierno como pagador de los servicios. Se determinó la relación costo-efectividad de la amitriptilina, la fluoxetina y la venlafaxina. El desenlace clínico fue la remisión de la depresión (una puntuación <7 en la escala de depresión de Hamilton o <12 en la escala de valoración de la depresión de Montgomery-Åsberg) después de 8 semanas de tratamiento. Los datos clínicos se obtuvieron de la literatura especializada y los costos, de las listas habituales de precios de Colombia. Se realizaron análisis de sensibilidad simples y multifactoriales para probar la robustez de los modelos. RESULTADOS: Los costos del tratamiento por paciente (en dólares estadounidenses de 2007) fueron: US$ 1 618 para la venlafaxina, US$ 1 207 para la fluoxetina y US$ 1 068 para la amitriptilina. Las tasas de remisión general fueron 73,1 por ciento, 64,1 por ciento y 71,3 por ciento, respectivamente. La amitriptilina tuvo un menor costo y una mayor remisión que la fluoxetina. La razón de rentabilidad incremental de la venlafaxina sobre la amitriptilina fue de US$ 31 595. El inductor de costos (cost driver) del modelo fue el valor de adquisición de la venlafaxina, que representó 53,4 por ciento del total del costo por paciente tratado, en comparación con la fluoxetina (18,5 por ciento) y la amitriptilina (24,8 por ciento). En los otros casos, la hospitalización representó el mayor costo (72,1 por ciento y 65,2 por ciento, respectivamente). El análisis de sensibilidad probabilístico (Monte Carlo) confirmó los resultados preliminares del modelo farmacoeconómico. CONCLUSIONES: En Colombia, la amitriptilina es más efectiva en función del...

Determination of the maximum inhibitory dilution of cetylpyridinium chloride-based mouthwashes against staphylococcus aureus: an in vitro study

The aim of this in vitro study was to determine the maximum inhibitory dilution (MID) of four cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)-based mouthwashes: CPC+Propolis, CPC+Malva, CPC+Eucaliptol+Juá+Romã+Propolis (Natural Honey®) and CPC (Cepacol®), against 28 Staphylococcus aureus field strains, using the agar dilution method. Decimal dilutions ranging from 1/10 to 1/655,360 were prepared and added to Mueller Hinton Agar. Strains were inoculated using Steers multipoint inoculator. The inocula were seeded onto the surface of the culture medium in Petri dishes containing different dilutions of the mouthwashes. The dishes were incubated at 37ºC for 24 h. For readings, the MID was considered as the maximum dilution of mouthwash still capable of inhibiting microbial growth. The obtained data showed that CPC+Propolis had antimicrobial activity against 27 strains at 1/320 dilution and against all 28 strains at 1/160 dilution, CPC+Malva inhibited the growth of all 28 strains at 1/320 dilution, CPC+Eucaliptol+Juá+Romã+Propolis inhibited the growth of 2 strains at 1/640 dilution and all 28 strains at 1/320 dilution, and Cepacol® showed antimicrobial activity against 3 strains at 1/320 dilution and against all 28 strains at 1/160 dilution. Data were submitted to Kruskal-Wallis test, showing that the MID of Cepacol® was lower than that determined for the other products (p<0.05). In conclusion, CPC-mouthwashes showed antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and the addition of other substances to CPC improved its antimicrobial effect.