Cardiovascular abnormalities in patients with SHANK3 pathogenic variants: Beyond neurodevelopmental disorders and epilepsy.

Neurodevelopmental disorders have been linked to numerous genes, particularly pathogenic variants in genes encoding postsynaptic scaffolding proteins, like SHANK3. This study aims to provide insights into the cardiovascular profile of patients with pathogenic SHANK3 variants, expanding beyond the well-established associations with neurodevelopmental disorders and epilepsy. We conducted a prospective study involving patients affected by neurodevelopmental disorders with pathogenic SHANK3 variants. Comprehensive cardiovascular assessments were performed and molecular genetic testing included chromosomal microarray followed by clinical exome sequencing. We identified five patients with de novo SHANK3 variants, all of whom exhibited cardiac involvement, including myocardial dysfunction, congenital heart disease (patent ductus arteriosus), and a case of postictal atrial fibrillation. Our findings emphasize an elevated risk of cardiovascular abnormalities in patients with SHANK3 pathogenic variants compared to prior reports. Despite their young age, these patients displayed significant cardiac abnormalities. The study highlights the necessity of integrating cardiac evaluation and ongoing cardiovascular monitoring into multidisciplinary care, facilitating early detection of heart failure and assessment of the risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of cardiac manifestations in SHANK3 mutation carriers.

Cognitive outcome after stereo-electroencephalography-guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation in temporal lobe epilepsy.

OBJECTIVE: Stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG)-guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) is being used incrementally in the invasive diagnosis of epilepsy. There is currently a lack of information regarding the potential cognitive consequences of the extended use of this technique. This work describes, for the first time, the cognitive outcomes after RFTC in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), evaluated longitudinally and using a control group. METHODS: Forty-eight adult patients with drug-resistant unilateral TLE (30 RFTC-treated patients and 18 controls) were evaluated using a comprehensive neuropsychological protocol at baseline. In the RFTC group, two follow-up assessments were performed at 3 months and 1 year. The control group was reevaluated after 1 year. Two analyses were performed: 1) group-level analyses, in which linear mixed models were applied according to TLE lateralization (intragroup and intergroup [RFTC vs control] comparisons), and 2) individual-level analyses, in which the Reliable Change Index (RCI) algorithm was developed and a 90% CI (cutoff ± 1.64) was used to describe neuropsychological outcomes at 1 year post-RFTC. A memory subanalysis was performed in hippocampal RFTC patients (25/30). A Spearman coefficient study was conducted to determine the correlation between cognitive change and thermocoagulated contacts. RESULTS: Left- and right-sided TLE patients treated with RFTC showed cognitive preservation at baseline. At a group level, the short-term evaluation, including verbal and visual memory, language, and executive functions, showed preservation in these domains and no significant differences compared with baseline. In the long-term follow-up assessment (1 year after RFTC), no significant intragroup changes were found, nor were significant changes found in comparison with the control group. The RCI algorithm showed that significant individual cognitive losses and gains were infrequent. Three patients presented with naming deficits, only 1 (3.3%) of whom showed a clinically significant deficit. Significant gains were more prevalent in executive function tests with a speed component (4/20 left-sided RFTC patients). Twenty-five of the 30 (83%) patients were treated with hippocampal RFTC. No patients experienced significant loss in verbal delayed memory in the left-sided RFTC sample or in visual delayed memory in the right-sided RFTC sample. The correlations between cognitive change and RFTC contacts were mostly nonsignificant. CONCLUSIONS: In the group-level comparisons, discernible cognitive impairment following RFTC was not evidenced. The majority of patients did not exhibit significant individual declines during the 1-year follow-up period. Notably, the procedural intervention yielded no substantial repercussions on memory functioning following hippocampal RFTC. These findings underscore the evidence supporting the cognitive preservation associated with SEEG-guided RFTC.

Discrimination and dental students: What is the reality in Brazilian institutions?

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate whether there is discrimination in the dental educational environment, assess the main reasons for the discriminatory events, and if there is an association between discriminatory episodes and sociodemographic characteristics of undergraduate dental students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted with a self-administered questionnaire to students enrolled in three Brazilian dental schools. Questions included sociodemographic characteristics and the occurrence of discriminatory episodes in the dental academic environment. Descriptive analysis was performed in RStudio 1.3 (R Core Team, RStudio, Inc., Boston, USA) software and the associations were tested using Pearson's chi-square test, considering 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: A total of 732 dental students were included, with a response rate of 70.2%. The vast majority of students were female (66.9%), with white/yellow skin colour (67.9%), and with a mean age of 22.6 (SD 4.1) years. Sixth-eight percent of students reported having experienced some discrimination in the academic environment and most reported feeling uncomfortable with the episode. The main reasons to have been discriminated against raised by students were specific behaviour/habit, have specific moral, ethical, and aesthetic values, gender, and socioeconomic status or social class. The occurrence of discriminatory episodes was associated with female gender (p = .05), non-heterosexual sexual orientation (p < .001), studying in public institutions (p < .001), receiving an institutional scholarship (p = .018), and being in the final undergraduate cycle (p < .001). CONCLUSION: The occurrence of discriminatory episodes was common in Brazilian dental higher education. Discriminatory situations generate traumas and psychological marks, causing a loss of diversity within the academic environment that leads to loss of productivity, creativity, and innovation. Thus, strong institutional policies against discrimination are crucial to create a healthy dental academic environment.

Macaronesian Plants as Promising Biopesticides against the Crop Pest Ceratitis capitata.

Ceratitis capitata is responsible for significant economic losses in the fruit production industry, and the market lacks biopesticides that are effective but also cheaper and less contaminating, with fewer negative impacts on the environment. In this regard, the present study suggests as potential options ethanolic extracts from several Macaronesian plants, which inhibit the oviposition and are toxic to C. capitata, and whose preparation involve a non-toxic solvent (i.e., ethanol), low energy expenditure and cheap apparatus (i.e., maceration at room temperature). Among the evaluated species, the extracts of Hedychium gardnerianum, Cistus symphytifolius and Salvia canariensis are the most active (50 mg/mL), revealing an increase in C. capitata adults' mortality from 21.15% to 27.41% after 72 h, a value statistically identical to azadirachtin (25.93%) at the recommended concentration (0.88 mg/mL). Considering the quantity and biomass available to prepare a biopesticide in the future, and the level of activity, the ethanolic extract of H. gardnerianum was fractionated and each fraction tested. The water fraction at 50 mg/mL proved to be more effective than the original extract, both in terms of mortality (57.69%), with LT50 = 72.5 h, and oviposition deterrence (83.43%), values statistically higher than those obtained by azadirachtin at 0.88 mg/mL. Analysis of this fraction by HPLC-MS/MS showed that it is mainly composed of glycosylated derivatives of quercetin and myricetin in addition to some triterpenes. These findings highlight some Macaronesian species, and in particular, the more polar fraction of H. gardnerianum ethanolic extract, as promising and ecological alternatives to conventional insecticides, for use in the integrated management of the C. capitata pest.

Factors associated with periodontal diseases in pregnancy: Findings of the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study.

Although periodontal disease is common during pregnancy, little is known about socioeconomic, behavioral, or biological determinants related to clinically assessed periodontal condition during this period. We assessed the prevalence of periodontal disease and associated factors in pregnant women. This population-based survey used data used from the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study, Brazil. Pregnant women expected to give birth between December 2014 and May 2016 were interviewed and clinically examined by trained dentist, with periodontal measures collected in all teeth, six sites per tooth. Outcomes were periodontitis (using the 2012 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Periodontology criteria) and gingivitis (by the 2018 European Federation of Periodontology/ American Academy of Periodontology classification). Multivariate hierarchical Poisson regression was used to assess the associations between socioeconomic, systemic, and clinical oral factors and periodontal disease. A total of 2,474 pregnant women participated in the study. Prevalence of periodontitis and gingivitis was 14.63% and 21.67%, respectively. Lower educational level and calculus were associated with higher prevalence periodontitis and gingivitis (P<0.05). Smoking was also associated with periodontitis (P=0.05), and lower frequency of toothbrushing (P=0.005) with gingivitis. Periodontal disease, especially gingivitis, was prevalent in pregnant women and their determinants were socioeconomic, environmental, and clinical oral health factors.

Evaluation of a Manual Cytocentrifuge versus the Standard Automated Cytocentrifuge in the Analysis of Canine Cerebrospinal Fluid: A Case Series of 55 Dogs.

Cytospins are important for evaluating fluids with very low cellularity such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The aim of this study was to compare the CSF cytospin preparations obtained from automated and manual cytocentrifugation methods. A prospective case series was performed to analyze canine CSF samples using both centrifugation methods. The cytospins were processed within 30-60 min and prepared simultaneously in a conventional automated cytocentrifuge and in an in-house manual cytocentrifuge, using a fixed volume of CSF fluid. The cellularity, differential cell count and the proportion of cell artifacts (pseudopods and vacuolization) were blindly assessed in the cytospin preparations obtained using the two methods. The agreement and correlation between both methods were analyzed. There were 55 dogs enrolled (48 prospectively and 7 retrospectively) in the study. 38 dogs had normal total nucleated cell counts, while 17 had pleocytosis. Automated and manual cytocentrifugation had similar cell yields, and no significant differences in differential cell counts or the presence of artifacts existed between both methods. In cases with pleocytosis, the cytologic diagnosis obtained using each method was similar. Manual cytocentrifugation of CSF is a reliable and economic method designed for routine clinical practice. Its use reduces the specimen deterioration related to processing and analysis delays when samples are transported to external laboratories for evaluation.

Difficulties in Establishing the Adverse Effects of ß-Casomorphin-7 Released from ß-Casein Variants-A Review.

ß-Casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) is a peptide released through the proteolysis of ß-casein (ß-CN), which is considered a bioactive peptide displaying evidence of promoting the binding and activation of the µ-opioid receptor located in various body parts, such as the gastrointestinal tract, the immune system and potentially the central nervous system. The possible effects of BCM-7 on health are a theme rising in popularity due to evidence found in several studies on the modulation of gastrointestinal proinflammatory responses that can trigger digestive symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort. With the advancement of studies, the hypothesis that there is a correlation of the possible effects of BCM-7 with the microbiota-gut-brain axis has been established. However, some studies have suggested the possibility that these adverse effects are restricted to a portion of the population, and the topic is controversial due to the small number of in vivo studies, which makes it difficult to obtain more conclusive results. In addition, a threshold of exposure to BCM-7 has not yet been established to clarify the potential of this peptide to trigger physiological responses at gastrointestinal and systemic levels. The proportion of the population that can be considered more susceptible to the effects of BCM-7 are evidenced in the literature review. The challenges of establishing the adverse effects of BCM-7 are discussed, including the importance of quantifying the BCM-7 release in the different ß-CN genotypes. In summary, the reviewed literature provides plausible indications of the hypothesis of a relationship between ß-CN A1/BCM-7 and adverse health effects; however, there is need for further, especially in vivo studies, to better understand and confirm the physiological effects of this peptide.

An immersive simulation strategy to teach cytology sample collection methods and basic diagnosis skills: A two academic center study.

BACKGROUND: Collecting cytology samples and making simple diagnoses are skills taught in veterinary universities, mostly in a passive way. Simulators enhance practical skills learning, increasing student engagement through immersive activities. These strategies have not been carefully assessed in veterinary cytology. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to describe a simulator developed for training cytology sample collection methods and assess the utility of an immersive simulation strategy to learn and practice the collection of cytology samples. METHODS: A flipped classroom with a station design was followed. Students first watched video tutorials on sampling collection, listened to brief cases' clinical histories, and moved to immersive simulator stations. There, they practiced imprints, swabs, and fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Microscopic observation of the material was available through augmented reality tools. Students were evaluated by Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) tools on their ability to perform FNA on stuffed animal models. Students answered two questionnaires addressing their learning outcomes. RESULTS: Second- and third-year students from two centers (n = 129) practiced cytologic collection methods in simulators which significantly changed their willingness to perform FNA in live animals after the class activities. OSCE pass rates over 90% were obtained for most steps of FNA, and students rated the activity as essential/very relevant for learning. CONCLUSIONS: Immersive simulation strategies were effective at increasing student comfort with cytologic sampling techniques. This approach should be included in the veterinary curriculum as it can increase the quality of cytology samples and could potentially improve the cytologic diagnosis of a submitted sample.

Discriminatory episodes negatively impact the quality of life of Brazilian dental students: A cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate whether discriminatory episodes occurring in the university environment were associated with dental students' self-perceived overall quality of life and assess the cumulative effect of perceived discriminatory experiences on the overall quality of life. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, all students enrolled in three Brazilian dental schools were invited to participate in a survey between August and October 2019. The outcome was students' self-perceived quality of life, measured through the overall quality of life item of the World Health Organization-Quality of Life Abbreviated Version (WHOQOL-BREF). Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses (95% confidence intervals and α of 5%) were conducted using RStudio software. RESULTS: The sample was composed of 732 students (70.2% response rate). The great part was female (66.9%), white or yellow skin color (67.9%), and were children of highly educated mothers. About 68% of the students reported having experienced at least one of the seven discriminatory experiences presented in the questionnaire and 18.1% reported neutral or negative quality of life. In multivariable analyses, it was estimated that students who experienced at least one episode of discrimination were 2.54 times (95% CI: 1.47-4.34) more likely to report worse quality of life than their counterparts who reported no experience of discrimination. There was also a 25% (95% CI: 1.10-1.42) increase in the odds of reporting poorer quality of life for each additional discriminatory experience reported. CONCLUSION: Reporting at least one discriminatory situation in the academic environment was associated with worse quality of life among dental students, and a cumulative effect was also noted.

Feeding preference and intraguild interactions between the parasitoid Trichogramma achaeae and the predator Macrolophus pygmaeus, two biological agents of Tuta absoluta.

BACKGROUND: Tuta absoluta is an exotic species and a major pest of tomato crops in Europe. Macrolophus pygmaeus and Trichogramma achaeae are two biocontrol agents widely used in integrated pest management programs of the South American tomato pinworm Tuta absoluta. In this study, we evaluated under laboratory conditions the (i) voracity of M. pygmaeus females fed on single diets of Tuta absoluta eggs parasitized or unparasitized by Trichogramma achaeae, (ii) voracity and feeding preference of M. pygmaeus females provided with mixed diets of Tuta absoluta eggs unparasitized and parasitized by Trichogramma achaeae and (iii) effect of competitive and intraguild interactions between M. pygmaeus and Trichogramma achaeae on the number of Tuta absoluta eggs consumed and/or parasitized. Lastly, we assessed under field conditions the effect of interspecific and intraspecific interactions between natural enemies on the number of Tuta absoluta eggs consumed and/or parasitized. RESULTS: Macrolophus pygmaeus consumed more unparasitized than parasitized eggs of Tuta absoluta. Under mixed diet regimes, Manly indices revealed a feeding preference for unparasitized eggs, and a decrease in the total number of eggs consumed, as the proportion of available parasitized eggs increased, whereas the unparasitized eggs were consumed in direct proportion to their availability. Conspecific interactions between M. pygmaeus, in contrast to Trichogramma achaeae, revealed the possible occurrence of intraspecific competition. For intraguild heterospecific interactions, the number of Tuta absoluta eggs consumed by M. pygmaeus and parasitized by Trichogramma achaeae was lower than that predicted for additive and non-interactive scenarios. Under field conditions, a significant difference between the conspecific treatment and heterospecific treatments revealed a slightly higher success rate in controlling Tuta absoluta when both M. pygmaeus and Trichogramma achaeae were used simultaneously. CONCLUSION: Macrolophus pygmaeus prefers unparasitized eggs of Tuta absoluta but inflicts intraguild predation on Trichogramma achaeae. In conspecific experiments, mutual interference between M. pygmaeus predators intensifies as the number of individuals increases, but for Trichogramma achaeae, it occurs in an unpredictable manner. Adding Trichogramma achaeae could significantly increase the level of control of Tuta absoluta compared to what could be achieved when only M. pygmaeus is present in glasshouse tomatoes. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Economic and financial model to the mass-rearing of Macrolophus pygmaeus (Rambur) (Heteroptera: Miridae), a biological control agent against the tomato moth Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in protected culture.

BACKGROUND: Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) is a major pest of tomato produced in glasshouses and open field, causing severe damages to crops, reducing the quality of tomato fruits. The current maintenance of the pest populations below the economic threshold is not achieved by natural and classical control, thus requiring the continuous application of biological control agents (BCAs), under an augmentative or inoculative approach. The present study aims to develop an economic and financial model to evaluate the commercial viability of a continuous mass production of Macrolophus pygmaeus (Rambur), a BCA commonly used against the tomato moth, Tuta absoluta, in protected culture. The estimations for our model were based on two approaches: the farm-level impact analysis and the benefit-cost analysis. RESULTS: The results of the farm-level analysis show that the adoption of a more sustainable biological control approach is profitable for farmers and the benefit-cost analysis provides evidence that the investment on a new factory dedicated to the mass rearing of M. pygmaeus to control tomato moth populations generates a positive net present value (NPV) of 7.2 million euros, corresponding to an internal rate of return (IRR) of 28.4% per year. CONCLUSION: Our results are in line with (i) the more recent European Commission proposals for a new Regulation on sustainable use of plant protection products, which includes the reduction of 50% the use and risk of chemical pesticides by 2030 and (ii) most of the existing literature which conclude that new projects on BCA production are worth investments. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Detection of Lymphoid Markers (CD3 and PAX5) for Immunophenotyping in Dogs and Cats: Comparison of Stained Cytology Slides and Matched Cell Blocks.

Immunolabeling on Romanowsky-stained cytology (RSC) slides can be used, although there is limited evidence of its suitability for phenotyping canine and feline lymphomas. A comparison with matched cell blocks (CB) is missing. Immunolabeling on RSC and CB was compared for lymphoid markers (CD3 and PAX5) in 53 lymphomas and 4 chylous effusions from dogs and cats. The influence of pre-analytical variables (species, time of archive, type of specimens and coverslipping) and the interobserver agreement among the 2 observers was assessed. Fewer CD3+ lymphocytes were identified in RSC, while the PAX5 positivity by RSC and CB had a substantial agreement. Immunodetection of CD3 and the diagnosis of a T-cell population on RSC was more difficult. Lower intensity and higher background were noted in RSC. Immunophenotyping was inconclusive in 54% RSC and 19% CB. The interobserver reproducibility of immunophenotyping on CB was substantial, being higher than in RSC. The immunolabeling performance on the RSC of effusion and feline samples was unsatisfactory. The detection of lymphoid markers, especially membranous antigens in retrospective RSC, is affected by the pre-analytical variables: species, time of the archive, and type of specimens. CB are a more consistent type of sample for immunophenotyping purposes.

Stereo-electroencephalography-guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation in patients with MRI-negative focal epilepsy.

OBJECTIVE: Coupled with stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG), radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) has emerged as a therapeutic alternative for patients with refractory focal epilepsy, with proven safe but highly variable results across studies. The authors aimed to describe the outcomes and safety of SEEG-RFTC, focusing on patients with MRI-negative epilepsy. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted on patients evaluated by SEEG in the authors' center. Of 84 total cases, 55 underwent RFTC, with 31 MRI-negative epilepsies that were ultimately included in the study. The primary outcome was freedom from disabling seizures at last follow-up. Secondary outcomes were reduction in seizure frequency (RFTC response = seizure frequency reduction > 50%), peri-interventional complications, and neuropsychological outcomes. Potential factors influencing post-RFTC outcome were considered by comparing different variables between responders and nonresponders. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 30.9 months (range 7.1-69.8 months). Three patients underwent subsequent resection/laser interstitial thermal therapy within the 1st year after RFTC failure. All other patients completed a minimum follow-up period of 1 year. Fourteen patients (45.2%) showed at least a 50% reduction in seizure frequency (responders), and 8 were seizure free (25.8% of the whole cohort). One case showed a permanent complication not directly related to thermolesions. Most patients (76%) showed no significant cognitive decline. Electrically elicited seizures (EESs) were observed in all seizure-free patients and were more frequent in responders (p = 0.038). All patients who were seizure free at the 6-month visit maintained their status during long-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: SEEG-RFTC is a safe procedure and leads to a good response in many cases of MRI-negative focal epilepsies. One-quarter of the patients were seizure free and almost one-half were responders at the last follow-up. Although these results are still far from those achieved through conventional resection, a nonnegligible proportion of patients may benefit from this one-stage and much less invasive approach. Factors associated with seizure outcome remain to be elucidated; however, responders were significantly more frequent among patients with EESs, and achieving 6 months of seizure freedom appears to predict a good long-term response. In addition, the positive predictive value of RFTC response may be a valuable factor in the decision to proceed to subsequent surgery.

Factors associated with periodontal diseases in pregnancy: Findings of the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study

Abstract Although periodontal disease is common during pregnancy, little is known about socioeconomic, behavioral, or biological determinants related to clinically assessed periodontal condition during this period. We assessed the prevalence of periodontal disease and associated factors in pregnant women. This population-based survey used data used from the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study, Brazil. Pregnant women expected to give birth between December 2014 and May 2016 were interviewed and clinically examined by trained dentist, with periodontal measures collected in all teeth, six sites per tooth. Outcomes were periodontitis (using the 2012 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Periodontology criteria) and gingivitis (by the 2018 European Federation of Periodontology/ American Academy of Periodontology classification). Multivariate hierarchical Poisson regression was used to assess the associations between socioeconomic, systemic, and clinical oral factors and periodontal disease. A total of 2,474 pregnant women participated in the study. Prevalence of periodontitis and gingivitis was 14.63% and 21.67%, respectively. Lower educational level and calculus were associated with higher prevalence periodontitis and gingivitis (P<0.05). Smoking was also associated with periodontitis (P=0.05), and lower frequency of toothbrushing (P=0.005) with gingivitis. Periodontal disease, especially gingivitis, was prevalent in pregnant women and their determinants were socioeconomic, environmental, and clinical oral health factors.

Parental stress and associated symptoms in premature babies' parents: a systematic review / Estresse parental e sintomas associados em genitores de prematuros: uma revisão sistemática

Objective: The objective of the study was to identify in the scientific papers the variables associated with parental stress of premature babies' parents through the graph analytics technique. Methods: This is a Systematic Literature Review performed in the CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, PsycInfo and Web of Science databases. Results: The search yielded 12 articles that were submitted to the data graph analytics technique for analysis and visualization through the NodeXL Program. Among the variables reviewed, the following stand out: parental psychological distress, risk factors, maternal characteristics, child characteristics, environmental characteristics, parent-infant relationship, and intervention. The main symptoms associated with parental stress were depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. Conclusion: The implementation of interventions aimed at the baby and the family's well-being can minimize the conditions faced.

Objetivo: Objetivou-se identificar, na produção científica internacional, as variáveis associadas ao estresse parental de genitores de bebês prematuros através da técnica de análise de grafos. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura nas bases de dados CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, PsycInfo e Web of Science. Resultados: As buscas resultaram em 12 artigos, que foram submetidos à técnica de análise e visualização de dados em grafos por meio do Programa NodeXL. Entre as variáveis analisadas, destacam-se: sofrimento psicológico dos pais, fatores de risco, características maternas, características da criança, características ambientais, relação pais-bebê e intervenção. Os principais sintomas associados ao estresse parental foram depressão, ansiedade e estresse pós-traumático. Conclusão: A implementação de intervenções voltadas ao bem-estar do bebê e da família podem minimizar as dificuldades enfrentadas.

Analysis of dentistry content on Instagram®and the use of social networks by Brazilian dental students

Aim: The aim of our study was to analyze the content related to dentistry published on Instagram® and to investigate the students' profiles related to the use of social networks in a sample from a Dentistry School. Methods: This study was carried out in two stages. First, research was conducted to analyze content published on Instagram® related to dentistry. The second part investigated the profiles of students' from a dental school in relation to the use of social networks through a questionnaire. A descriptive analysis was performed and associations between the variables were tested using Fisher's exact test. Results: We found a diversified and large amount of content related to dentistry published on Instagram®, and publications that involved advertising were more prevalent in our study. There are also many publications that are violating the Code of Dental Ethics. In addition, in the second part of our study, we observed an enormous use of social networks by dental students (98.4%). Conclusions: As a result, we believe that it is important to update professionals about the ethical infractions related to social networks which could be approached during graduate courses in universities. Finally, the analyzed social network seems to be an interesting alternative for disseminating health information in order to dialogue with greater proximity to the large number of users who participate in it

Evaluation of parasite contamination on toothbrushes in children in Southeastern Brazil / Evaluación de la contaminación parasitaria en cepillos de dientes en niños del sudeste de Brasil

ABSTRACT Introduction : The toothbrush is an important object for the hygiene of the oral cavity and an effective mechanism to remove the oral waste. Objective : To evaluate the perception of care, storage and parasitic contamination of toothbrushes in children with special health care needs (CSHCN) and children without special health care needs (CWSHCN) in Southern of Minas Gerais State. Material and Methods : This is an observational cross-sectional non-randomized study. The population consisted in 54 children, with age between 7 and 14 years. The questionnaire was distributed to patients to evaluate the perception of care and storage of children's toothbrushes. Investigation of toothbrushes contamination was performed by parasitological examination and real-time polymerase chain reactions. Results : Regarding the procedures performed after brushing, 50.0% of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) and 56.3% of children without special health care needs (CWSHCN) report washing their brush bristles with water (p <0.001). Both groups did not use an antiseptic solution on toothbrushes. 73.3% of (CSHCN) and 58.7% of (CWSHCN) answered that they use some protection (brush holder and bathroom cabinet) to avoid exposure of brushes to the environment (p <0.001). Conclusion : The children investigated by the study presented good conditions of care and storage of their toothbrushes. No contamination by pathogenic parasites was found during the study period.

RESUMEN Introducción : El cepillo de dientes es un objeto importante para la higiene de la cavidad bucal y un mecanismo eficaz para eliminar los residuos bucales. Objetivo : Evaluar la percepción del cuidado, almacenamiento y contaminación parasitaria de los cepillos dentales en niños con necesidades especiales de salud (CSHCN) y niños sin necesidades especiales de salud (CWSHCN) en el sur del estado de Minas Gerais. Material y Métodos : Se trata de un estudio observacional transversal no aleatorio. La población consistió en 54 niños, con edad entre 7 y 14 años. El cuestionario fue distribuido a los pacientes para evaluar la percepción del cuidado y almacenamiento de los cepillos dentales de los niños. La investigación de la contaminación de los cepillos dentales se realizó mediante un examen parasitológico y reacciones en cadena de la polimerasa en tiempo real. Resultados : En cuanto a los procedimientos realizados tras el cepillado, el 50,0% de los niños con necesidades especiales de atención sanitaria (NCNEAS) y el 56,3% de los niños sin necesidades especiales de atención sanitaria (NSNEAS) refieren lavar las cerdas del cepillo con agua (p <0,001). Ambos grupos no utilizaron una solución antiséptica en los cepillos de dientes. El 73,3% de los (NCNEAS) y el 58,7% de los (NSNEAS) contestaron que utilizan alguna protección (portacepillos y mueble de baño) para evitar la exposición de los cepillos al medio ambiente (p <0,001). Conclusiones : Los niños investigados por el estudio presentaron buenas condiciones de cuidado y almacenamiento de sus cepillos dentales. No se encontró contaminación por parásitos patógenos durante el período de estudio.

The first harmonised total diet study in Portugal: Nitrate occurrence and exposure assessment.

A harmonised TDS methodology was used to assess the Portuguese population's nitrate baseline dietary exposure and the risk of exceeding the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI). Nitrate occurrence in 164 TDS samples pooled based on 20 FoodEx2 groups, representative of 18 to 75 years old population diet, was determined using UV-HPLC. The 'vegetables' group had the highest mean nitrate concentration (353 mg/kg), followed by 'starchy roots' (62 mg/kg), 'composite dishes' (53 mg/kg) and 'fruits' (46 mg/kg). Lettuce contained the most nitrates (1729 mg/kg). The estimated mean nitrate exposure of 1.17 mg/kg bw/day, with 3.18% of individuals exceeding the ADI, was assessed on a semi-probabilistic approach using the MCRA software. Lettuce (28%) contributed most to nitrate exposure followed by vegetable soup (13%). Processed meat contribution to exposure was 0.86% and 2.44% (overall population and consumers only). At population level the nitrate estimated exposure (mean and 95th percentile) revealed no reason for concern.

Pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil: quais as repercussões no comportamento, qualidade do sono, uso de telas e alimentação de crianças? / COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: what are the impactson child behavior, sleep quality, screen time and diet?

Objetivo: Descrever as possíveis repercussões que o distan-ciamento social e pandemia de COVID-19 promoveram no comportamento, qualidade do sono, uso de telas e alimentação de crianças brasileiras de 0 a 12 anos. Materiais e Métodos: Este estudo observacional descritivo foi realizado através de um questionário on-line autoaplicado direcionado aos pais, cuidadores ou responsáveis legais de crianças de 0-12 anos. O questionário foi aplicado entre 19 de agosto de 2020 a 19 de setembro de 2020, em dois grupos, um composto por usuários de serviços de saúde e outro pela população em geral. Os da-dos foram analisados descritivamente, considerando α=5%. Resultados: Compuseram a amostra final 271 respondentes. Segundo os cuidadores, 59,4% das crianças tiveram alterações de comportamento e 48% reportou ou demonstrou medo da COVID-19. Além disso, melhora na qualidade do sono foi reportada de forma importante para crianças de até 2 anos e, 33,3% dos cuidadores em ambos os grupos reportaram piora em qualidade do sono entre 9 e 12 anos. Aumento do uso de telas ocorreu para 85% das crianças. O consumo de alimentos considerados saudáveis se manteve igual para grande parte das crianças e o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados aumentou para mais de 40% das crianças, principalmente entre 3 e 5 anos e 9 e 12 anos de idade. Discussão: Os resultados encontrados devem ser fonte de atenção a fim de garantir o adequado desenvolvimento infantil após um período de pandemia. Conclusão: O distancia-mento social provocado pela pandemia de COVID-19 promoveu repercussões importantes na rotina das crianças avaliadas, impactando negativamente seu comportamento, alimentação e uso de telas. Ainda, a qualidade do sono de crianças maiores foi impactada negativamente, apesar de ter sido observada melhora na qualidade do sono de crianças mais jovens.

Aim: To describe the potential consequences of social distancing and the COVID-19 pandemic on the behavior, sleep quality, screen time, and diet of Brazilian chil-dren aged 0 to 12 years. Materials and methods: This descriptive observational study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire distributed to parents, caregivers or guardians of children aged 0-12 years. The same questionnaire was distributed to two groups between August 19, 2020 and September 19, 2020. Users of Pelotas Public Health Services made up one group, while the general Brazilian population made up the other. The data was analyzed descriptively considering α=5%. Results: The total sample consisted of 271 respondents. According to caregivers, 59.4% of children showed behavioral changes and 48% reported or demonstrated COVID-19 fear. Moreover, improve-ment in sleep quality was reported for children up to 2 years, and 33.3% of caregivers in both groups reported a decline in sleep quality among children aged 9 to 12. Eighty-five percent of children increased their screen time. The intake of healthy foods remained the same for most of the children, but the intake of ultra-processed food increased for over 40% of them, primarily between 3 to 5 years old and 9 to 12 years old. Discussion: The results should be a focus of attention in order to maintain proper child development following a pandemic. Conclusion: The social distancing caused by the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the children's routine, with negative effects on their behavior, diet and screen time. In addition, a decline in sleep quality was observed among older children, while better sleep quality was reported for younger children.

Structural similarity between thyroid peroxidase [Homo sapiens] and SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein ­ An autoimmune thyroiditis triggering mechanism in COVID-19 carriers? / Similaridade estrutural entre a tireoperoxidase humana [Homo sapiens] e a glicoproteína de superfície do SARS-CoV-2 ­ Um mecanismo de desencadeamento da tiroidite autoimune nos portadores da COVID-19?

Introduction: there are reports of autoimmune disease related to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) such neurological syndromes and hematological syndromes, and more recently autoimmune thyroid dysfunctions have been described. These reports suggest that SARS-CoV-2 acts as a probable trigger for triggering the autoimmunity process. Aim: to evaluate structural similarity between thyroid peroxidase [Homo sapiens] (TPO) and SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein (COVID-19), and to propose this similarity as a likely trigger for autoimmune thyroiditis. Methodology: using bioinformatics tools, we compare the amino acids (AA) sequences between protein structure of TPO and chain A COVID-19, chain B COVID-19, and chain C COVID-19, accessible in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, by Basic Local Alignment Search Tool in order to locate the homologous regions between the sequences of AA. Results: the homology sequence between the TPO and COVID-19 ranged from 27.0 % (10 identical residues out of 37 AA in the sequence) to 56.0% (5 identical residues out of 9 AA in the sequence). The similar alignments demonstrated relatively high E values in function of short alignment. Conclusion: data suggest a possible pathological link between TPO and COVID-19. The structural similarity of AA sequences between TPO and COVID-19 may present a molecular mimicry suggesting the possibility of antigen crossover between TPO and COVID-19 that might represent an immunological basis for autoimmune thyroiditis associated with COVID-19.

Introdução: há relatos de doenças autoimunes relacionadas à síndrome respiratória aguda grave por coronavírus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), tais como síndromes neurológicas e hematológicas, e mais recentemente disfunções autoimunes da tireoide foram descritas. Esses relatos sugerem que o SARS-CoV-2 atue como um provável gatilho para desencadear o processo de autoimunidade. Objetivo: avaliar a similaridade estrutural entre a peroxidase tireoidiana [Homo sapiens] (TPO) e a glicoproteína de superfície SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) e propor essa similaridade como provável gatilho para o desencadeamento da tireoidite autoimune. Metodologia: utilizando ferramentas de bioinformática, comparamos as sequências de aminoácidos (AA) entre a estrutura da TPO e a estrutura da cadeia A do COVID-19, a cadeia B do COVID-19 e a cadeia C do COVID-19, acessível no banco de dados do National Center for Biotechnology Information, através da Ferramenta Básica de Pesquisa de Alinhamento Local para localizar as regiões homólogas entre as sequências de AA. Resultados: a sequência de homologia entre o TPO e COVID-19 variou de 27,0% (10 resíduos idênticos em 37 AA nas sequências) a 56,0% (5 resíduos idênticos em 9 AA nas sequências). Os alinhamentos semelhantes demonstraram valores E relativamente altos em função do alinhamento curto. Conclusão: os dados sugerem uma possível ligação patológica entre TPO e COVID-19. A similaridade estrutural das sequências de AA entre TPO e COVID-19 pode apresentar um mimetismo molecular sugerindo a possibilidade de cruzamento de antígeno entre TPO e COVID-19 que podem representar uma base imunológica para tireoidite autoimune associada a COVID-19.