The role of multi-walled carbon nanotubes in enhancing the hydrolysis and thermal stability of PLA.

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a bioresorbable and biodegradable polymer extensively used in various biomedical and engineering applications. In this study, we investigated the mass loss and thermal properties of PLA-multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites under simulated physiological conditions. The composites were prepared by melting PLA with 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 5.0 wt% MWCNTs using an ultrasonic agitator, and FTIR analysis confirmed composite formation. Subsequently, the composites were subjected to hydrolysis under simulated physiological conditions (pH 7.4 and 37 °C) for up to 60 days. The results revealed that the mass loss of the composites decreased with increasing MWCNT content, suggesting that the presence of MWCNTs decelerated the hydrolysis process. On day 58, the mass loss of pure PLA was 12.5%, decreasing to 8.34% with 0.1% MWCNT, 5.94% with 0.5% MWCNT, 4.59% with 1% MWCNT, and 3.54% with 5.0% MWCNT. This study offers valuable insights into the behavior of PLA-MWCNT composites under physiologically simulated conditions, facilitating the development of new polymer composites with enhanced thermal stability and degradation resistance for biomedical applications.

An update on the study of synovial fluid in the geriatric patient.

BACKGROUND: The characteristics of synovial fluid (SF) in geriatric patients differ from those in younger patients. In Mexico, epidemiologic data on the incidence of different rheumatic diseases in geriatric patients are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To describe the physical characteristics of geriatric SF and the prevalence of crystals in knee and other joint aspirates from patients with previously diagnosed joint disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was performed with a baseline of 517 SF samples between 2011 and 2023. White blood cell count was performed by Neubauer chamber and crystals were identified by polarized light microscopy. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed and prevalence was reported as a percentage. RESULTS: The mean age of the adults was 73.5±5.0 years, 54.4% were women and 45.6% were men. The mean SF volume was 6.3±9.5mL in older adults and 15.3±24.9mL in those younger than 65 years. The mean viscosity in older adults was 9.5±4.5mm and the mean leukocyte count was 7352±16,402leukocytes/mm3. Seventy percent of the older adults' SFs were referred to the laboratory for osteoarthritis (OA), with lower proportions for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (14.6%) and gout (5.1%). Of the crystals observed in the geriatric population, 14.6% corresponded to monosodium urate crystals (CUM) and 18.9% to calcium pyrophosphate crystals (CPP). CONCLUSIONS: The characteristics of LS in older adults were smaller volume, increased viscosity, and non-inflammatory. The main diagnoses were OA, RA, and gout. The crystal content of the SF of the geriatric population corresponded mainly to CPP.

A photothermal driven chemotherapy for the treatment of metastatic melanoma.

Solid tumors are abnormal mass of tissue, which affects the organs based on its malignancy and leads to the dysfunction of the affected organs. The major problem associated with treatment of solid tumors is delivering anticancer therapeutics to the deepest layers/core of the solid tumor. Deposition of excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) hinders the therapeutics to travel towards the core of the tumor. Therefore, conventional anticancer therapeutics can only reduce the tumor size and that also for a limited duration, and tumor recurrence occurs once the therapy is discontinued. Additionally, by the time the cancer is diagnosed, the cancer cells already started affecting the major organs of the body such as lung, liver, spleen, kidney, and brain, due to their ability to metastasize and lung is the primary site for them to be infiltrated. To facilitate the anticancer therapeutics to penetrate the deeper layers of tumor, and to provide concurrent treatment of both the solid tumor and metastasis, we have designed and developed a Bimodal Light Assisted Skin Tumor and Metastasis Treatment (BLAST), which is a combination of photothermal and chemotherapeutic moieties. The BLAST is composed of 2D boron nitride (BN) nanosheet with adsorbed molecules of BCL-2 inhibitor, Navitoclax (NAVI) on its surface, that can breakdown excessive ECM network and thereby facilitate dissociation of the solid tumor. The developed BLAST was evaluated for its ability to penetrate solid tumors using 3D spheroids for the uptake, cytotoxicity, growth inhibition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection, penetration, and downregulation of proteins upon laser irradiation. The in vivo therapeutic studies on a skin cancer mice model revealed that the BLAST with and without laser were able to penetrate the solid tumor, reduce tumor volume in mice, dissociate the protein network, and prevent lung metastasis as confirmed by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Post analysis of serum and blood components revealed the safety and efficacy of BLAST in mice. Hence, the developed BLAST holds strong promise in solid tumor treatment and metastasis prevention simultaneously.

Antiphagocytic Properties of Polygallic Acid with Implications in Gouty Inflammation.

Polygallic acid (PGAL) has been used in vitro to protect synoviocytes from monosodium urate (MSU) crystals due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, MSU crystals can also activate other cells of the synovial fluid (SF). We studied the impact of PGAL on the phagocytosis of MSU crystals, inflammation, and oxidative stress using an in vitro model with SF leukocytes and THP-1 monocyte cells. SF leukocytes were stimulated with PGAL and MSU crystals, proinflammatory cytokines and phagocytosis were assessed. In THP-1 cells, the effect of PGAL on the phagocytosis of MSU crystals and the levels of IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated. PGAL was added to THP-1 cultures 24 h before MSU crystal addition as a pre-treatment, and IL-1ß was measured. One-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test was performed, and a P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. PGAL (100 µg/mL) decreased phagocytosis in SF leukocytes by 14% compared to cells exposed to crystals without PGAL. In THP-1 cells, 100 and 200 µg/mL PGAL reduced phagocytosis by 17% and 15%, respectively. In SF cells, there was a tendency to decrease IL-1ß and IL-6. In THP-1 cells, decreases in IL-1ß and TNF-α, as well as a slight decrease in ROS, were identified. PGAL pre-treatment resulted in a reduction of IL-1ß. PGAL inhibits MSU phagocytosis by exerting an anti-inflammatory effect on cells exposed to crystals. The use of PGAL before an acute attack of gout suggests an important protective factor to control the inflammation.

In Silico Study of Novel Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes of Polycaprolactone and Its Correlation with Skin Regeneration.

Three novel biomaterials obtained via inclusion complexes of ß-cyclodextrin, 6-deoxi-6-amino-ß-cyclodextrin and epithelial growth factor grafted to 6-deoxi-6-amino-ß-cyclodextrin with polycaprolactone. Furthermore, some physicochemical, toxicological and absorption properties were predicted using bioinformatics tools. The electronic, geometrical and spectroscopical calculated properties agree with the properties obtained via experimental methods, explaining the behaviors observed in each case. The interaction energy was obtained, and its values were -60.6, -20.9 and -17.1 kcal/mol for ß-cyclodextrin/polycaprolactone followed by the 6-amino-ß-cyclodextrin-polycaprolactone complex and finally the complex of epithelial growth factor anchored to 6-deoxy-6-amino-ß-cyclodextrin/polycaprolactone. Additionally, the dipolar moments were calculated, achieving values of 3.2688, 5.9249 and 5.0998 Debye, respectively, and in addition the experimental wettability behavior of the studied materials has also been explained. It is important to note that the toxicological predictions suggested no mutagenic, tumorigenic or reproductive effects; moreover, an anti-inflammatory effect has been shown. Finally, the improvement in the cicatricial effect of the novel materials has been conveniently explained by comparing the poly-caprolactone data obtained in the experimental assessments.

Aligned TiO2 Scaffolds in the Presence of a Galactopyranose Matrix by Sol-Gel Process.

In this work, titanium dioxide scaffolds were synthesized. Titanium isopropoxide (IV) was used as a precursor in its formation, using a polymeric network of galactopyranose as a template. The powder sample obtained was evaluated by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA-DTA). According to the results, it was found that these scaffolds can be successfully synthesized in solution using the sol-gel method. The synthesized scaffolds have diameters from 50 nm with porosity of approximately 0.3-10 nm. Important parameters, such as pH and the concentration of the metallic precursors, were optimized in this solution. The values of maximum average roughness R(max) and roughness value (Ra) were 0.50 and 1.45, respectively. XRD diffraction analysis shows the formation of crystalline phases in the TiO2 scaffold at 700 °C. The use of biological polymers represents an alternative for the synthesis of new materials at low cost, manipulating the conditions in the production processes and making the proposed system more efficient.

Commercial Fungicide Toxic Effects on Terrestrial Non-Target Species Might Be Underestimated When Based Solely on Active Ingredient Toxicity and Standard Earthworm Tests.

The ecosystem services provided by earthworms are lost when land management reduces their populations, hence, the importance of thorough assessments of management effects on this group. The present study aimed to: (1) review the possible influence of other ingredients within the formulations of two commercial fungicides; (2) assess the sublethal effects of these commercial fungicides on Eisenia fetida; and (3) assess the acute lethal effects of one commercial fungicide on both Glossoscolex rione and E. fetida. Examining all components of the studied commercial formulations revealed that alongside the toxic active ingredients are other ingredients that are equally as or more toxic than the former and may even be in higher concentrations. The inhibition concentration of 10% of E. fetida's progeny (IC10) was estimated at 133 mg kg−1 for PROSARO® and 1544 mg kg−1 for SWING PLUS®. Both fungicides showed an effect of hormesis on the progeny. In this first toxicity study with G. rione, it was found that this species is more sensitive to PROSARO® than E. fetida, with preliminary 14 day-lethal concentrations of 285 mg kg−1 for the former and >1000 mg kg−1 for the latter.

Osteomielitis crónica agudizada del maxilar. Presentación de un caso pediátrico / Acute chronic osteomyelitis of the maxilla. Presentation of pediatric case / Osteomielite crônica aguda da maxila. Apresentação de um caso pediátrico

RESUMEN Se presentó el caso de una paciente femenina de 9 años con historia de traumatismo a nivel de incisivos centrales superiores, por lo cual recibió tratamiento para apicoformación con hidróxido de calcio durante un periodo prolongado, que luego de realizarle la obturación de los conductos radiculares presentó un cuadro de inflamación aguda en labio superior y vestíbulo bucal. El tratamiento incluyó terapia antimicrobiana, desbridamiento quirúrgico amplio bajo anestesia general, apicectomía de ambos incisivos, obturación a visión directa de los conductos y sellado apical de los dientes con gutapercha. El diagnóstico anatomopatológico fue el de osteomielitis crónica agudizada del maxilar. Año y medio después se observó ausencia clínica de signos inflamatorios y adecuada cicatrización del tejido óseo. Se concluyó que, aunque los reportes de osteomielitis crónica del hueso maxilar son escasos, debe estar presente dentro del diagnóstico diferencial cuando se evalúan pacientes en edad pediátrica con historia de traumatismo dentoalveolar y procesos inflamatorios en la región maxilofacial.

ABSTRACT A nine-year old female patient presented with a history of trauma to the upper central incisors. She received treatment for apicoforming with calcium hydroxide for a prolonged period, who after root canal obturation presented acute inflammation of the upper lip and buccal vestibule. Treatment included antimicrobial therapy, extensive surgical debridement under general anesthesia, apicoectomy of both incisors, and direct visual obturation of the canals and apical sealing of the teeth with gutta-percha. The anatomopathologic diagnosis was acute chronic osteomyelitis of the maxilla. One and a half years later, clinical absence of inflammatory signs and adequate healing of the bone tissue were observed. It was concluded that, although reports concerning chronic osteomyelitis of the maxillary bone are rare events, this type of infection should be always present at the time of the differential diagnosis for evaluating pediatric patients with a history of dentoalveolar trauma and inflammatory processes in the maxillofacial region.

RESUMO Apresentamos o caso de uma paciente feminina de 9 anos de idade com histórico de trauma nos incisivos centrais superiores, para a qual ela recebeu tratamento para apicoformação com hidróxido de cálcio por um período prolongado, que após a obturação do canal radicular apresentou inflamação aguda do lábio superior e vestíbulo vestibular. O tratamento incluiu terapia antimicrobiana, desbridamento cirúrgico extensivo sob anestesia geral, apicoectomia de ambos os incisivos, obturação visual direta dos canais e vedação apical dos dentes com guta-percha. O diagnóstico patológico foi uma osteomielite crônica aguda da maxila. Um ano e meio depois, houve uma ausência clínica de sinais inflamatórios e uma cicatrização adequada do tecido ósseo. Concluiu-se que, embora os relatos de osteomielite crônica do osso maxilar sejam escassos, ela deveria estar presente no diagnóstico diferencial ao avaliar pacientes pediátricos com histórico de trauma dentoalveolar e processos inflamatórios na região maxilofacial.

Establishment and multiapproach characterization of Amblyomma sculptum (Acari: Ixodidae) cell line (ASE-14) from Brazil.

The establishment and characterization of the ASE-14 cell line derived from embryos of Amblyomma sculptum is described here. Primary cultures were started, and after 60 days of culturing a confluent monolayer was formed and the first subculture was then carried out. After this, new subcultures were carried out every 4 weeks. Cryopreservation of cells was successful only after the 14th subculture. We compared the chromosomes of the ASE-14 cell line with those of parental ticks. Cytogenetic analysis revealed occurrences of variable and increased diploid numbers in the ASE-14 cell line in comparison with adult ticks, probably through polyploidization events, chromosome fusions and translocations, which allowed generation of cells with distinct diploid numbers. Confirmation of the origin of the A. sculptum cell line was obtained through conventional PCR and sequencing of a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. In addition, no DNA from Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma spp., Babesia/Theileria spp., Bartonella spp., Coxiella spp., Ehrlichia canis, Mycoplasma spp. or Rickettsia spp. was detected in the cells through PCR assays. Cytological analyses were performed using live phase contrast microscopy and cytocentrifuge smears stained with Giemsa, while periodic acid-Schiff and bromophenol blue staining techniques were used to detect polysaccharides and protein, respectively. In conclusion, a new cell line derived from embryos of A. sculptum was generated and characterized in this study. The ASE-14 cell line was deposited in the Tick Cell Biobank at the University of Liverpool, and in the Tick Cell Biobank South America Outpost at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ). The ASE-14 cell line is an important addition to the existing panel of tick cell lines and can be used as a tool for advancing research in various areas of the virology, bacteriology, biology and control of this tick.

[Enteroparasitosis in Peru and its relation to the Human Development Index]. / Enteroparasitosis en Perú y su relación con el Índice de desarrollo humano.

BACKGROUND: Diseases related to enteroparasites are a serious public health problem. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of enteroparasites in Peru and its relationship with the Human Development Index (HDI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A coproparasitological study using the direct method from children and adults from the communities of Pamplona Alta in Lima, the province of San Sebastián de Quera, Castillo Grande, Pillco Marca and Puelles in Huánuco, Llupa-Huaraz in Ancash, and Machaguay in Arequipa, Peru, was carried out from 2012 to 2016. RESULTS: 864 samples were analyzed, and a total prevalence of 23.03% (199 cases) was found. The non-pathogenic protozoan Entamoeba coli, with 10.42% (90 cases), and the nematode Ascaris lumbricoides, with 6.37% (55 cases), were the most prevalent. PERMANOVA analysis based on the prevalences of enteroparasites in urban and rural areas of Peru showed differences among communities. The overall prevalence of urban communities was similar to that of the rural ones. CONCLUSIONS: Enteroparasitosis in Peru are not related to HDI. However, the levels of infestation by enteroparasites varied between the different communities, and they were related to the bioecological characteristics of parasites.

INTRODUCCIÓN: las enfermedades relacionadas con enteroparásitos son un grave problema de salud pública. OBJETIVO: evaluar la prevalencia de enteroparásitos en el Perú y su relación con el Índice de desarrollo humano (IDH). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio coproparasitológico por el método directo en niños y adultos de las comunidades de Pamplona Alta en Lima, de la provincia de San Sebastián de Quera, Castillo Grande, Pillco Marca y Puelles en Huánuco, Llupa-Huaraz en Ancash y Machaguay en Arequipa, Perú, de 2012 a 2016. RESULTADOS: se analizaron 864 muestras y se encontró una prevalencia total del 23.03% (199 casos). El protozoario no patógeno Entamoeba coli con 10.42% (90 casos) y el nematodo Ascaris lumbricoides con 6.37% (55 casos) fueron los más prevalentes. La prevalencia de protozoos fue mayor que la de los helmintos. No se observó asociación entre el IDH frente a la prevalencia total ni frente a las cuatro especies de enteroparásitos más frecuentes. El análisis PERMANOVA a partir de las prevalencias de enteroparásitos en áreas urbanas y rurales de Perú mostró diferencias entre las comunidades. La prevalencia total de las comunidades urbanas fue similar a la de las rurales. CONCLUSIONES: la enteroparasitosis en el Perú no se relaciona con el IDH. Sin embargo, los niveles de infestación por enteroparásitos variaron entre las diferentes comunidades y se relacionaron con las características bioecológicas de los parásitos.

Enteroparasitosis en Perú y su relación con el Índice de desarrollo humano / Enteroparasitosis in Peru and its relation to the Human Development Index

Introducción: las enfermedades relacionadas con enteroparásitos son un grave problema de salud pública. Objetivo: evaluar la prevalencia de enteroparásitos en el Perú y su relación con el Índice de desarrollo humano (IDH). Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio coproparasitológico por el método directo en niños y adultos de las comunidades de Pamplona Alta en Lima, de la provincia de San Sebastián de Quera, Castillo Grande, Pillco Marca y Puelles en Huánuco, Llupa-Huaraz en Ancash y Machaguay en Arequipa, Perú, de 2012 a 2016. Resultados: se analizaron 864 muestras y se encontró una prevalencia total del 23.03% (199 casos). El protozoario no patógeno Entamoeba coli con 10.42% (90 casos) y el nematodo Ascaris lumbricoides con 6.37% (55 casos) fueron los más prevalentes. La prevalencia de protozoos fue mayor que la de los helmintos. No se observó asociación entre el IDH frente a la prevalencia total ni frente a las cuatro especies de enteroparásitos más frecuentes. El análisis PERMANOVA a partir de las prevalencias de enteroparásitos en áreas urbanas y rurales de Perú mostró diferencias entre las comunidades. La prevalencia total de las comunidades urbanas fue similar que la de las rurales. Conclusiones: la enteroparasitosis en el Perú no se relaciona con el IDH. Sin embargo, los niveles de infestación por enteroparásitos variaron entre las diferentes comunidades y se relacionaron con las características bioecológicas de los parásitos.

Background: Diseases related to enteroparasites are a serious public health problem. Objective: To assess the prevalence of enteroparasites in Peru and its relationship with the Human Development Index (HDI). Material and methods: A coproparasitological study using the direct method from children and adults from the communities of Pamplona Alta in Lima, the province of San Sebastián de Quera, Castillo Grande, Pillco Marca and Puelles in Huánuco, Llupa-Huaraz in Ancash, and Machaguay in Arequipa, Peru was carried out from 2012 to 2016. Results: 864 samples were analyzed, and a total prevalence of 23.03% (199 cases) was found. The non-pathogenic protozoan Entamoeba coli, with 10.42% (90 cases), and the nematode Ascaris lumbricoides, with 6.37% (55 cases), were the most prevalent. PERMANOVA analysis based on the prevalences of enteroparasites in urban and rural areas of Peru showed differences among communities. The overall prevalence of urban communities was similar to that of rural ones. Conclusions: Enteroparasitosis in Peru are not related to HDI. However, the levels of infestation by enteroparasites varied between the different communities, and they were related to the bioecological characteristics of parasites.

Manganese systemic distribution is modulated in vivo during tumor progression and affects tumor cell migration and invasion in vitro.

Metastatic disease remains the leading cause of death in cancer and understanding the mechanisms involved in tumor progression continues to be challenging. This work investigates the role of manganese in tumor progression in an in vivo model of tumor growth. Our data revealed that manganese accumulates within primary tumors and secondary organs as manganese-rich niches. Consequences of such phenomenon were investigated, and we verified that short-term changes in manganese alter cell surface molecules syndecan-1 and ß1-integrin, enhance collective cell migration and invasive behavior. Long-term increased levels of manganese do not affect cell growth and viability but enhance cell migration. We also observed that manganese is secreted from tumor cells in extracellular vesicles, rather than in soluble form. Finally, we describe exogenous glycosaminoglycans that counteract manganese effects on tumor cell behavior. In conclusion, our analyses describe manganese as a central element in tumor progression by accumulating in Mn-rich niches in vivo, as well as in vitro, affecting migration and extracellular vesicle secretion in vitro. Manganese accumulation in specific regions of the organism may not be a common ground for all cancers, nevertheless, it represents a new aspect of tumor progression that deserves special attention.

Conocimientos sobre factores de riesgos y medidas de autocuidado en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 con úlcera neuropática / Knowledge about risk factors and self-care measures in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with neuropathic ulcer / Conhecimento sobre fatores de risco e medidas de autocuidado em pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 com úlcera neuropática

RESUMEN Introducción: El conocimiento sobre los factores de riesgo y las medidas de autocuidado en los pacientes con diabetes mellitus se considera un elemento esencial en su tratamiento. Objetivo: Evaluar el nivel de conocimientos sobre factores de riesgos y medidas de autocuidado en pacientes con diabetes mellitus con úlcera neuropática. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo trasversal en 135 pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 con úlcera neuropática pertenecientes a dos consultorios del médico de familia del Policlínico Universitario "Dr. Rudesindo Antonio García del Rijo" de Sancti Spíritus en el período de noviembre de 2018 a noviembre de 2019. Las variables estudiadas, fueron: edad, sexo, nivel de conocimientos sobre los factores de riesgo y medidas de autocuidado. Resultados: Los resultados agrupados en forma de tablas mostraron un predominio de los pacientes del sexo femenino con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 de 60-70 años. El inadecuado nivel de conocimientos de los factores de riesgo más sobresaliente fue el antecedente de la enfermedad cardiovascular. Las medidas de autocuidado más conocida fue mantener el tratamiento para la diabetes mellitus. Conclusiones: En la investigación predominó el sexo femenino de 60-71 años. El nivel de desconocimientos que predominó fue la historia familiar de la diabetes mellitus, así como mayor nivel de desconocimiento en las medidas a tener en cuenta para el autocuidado en la práctica de aseo corporal.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Knowledge concerning risk factors and self-care methods in patients with diabetes mellitus is considered an essential element in their effective treatment. Objective: To assess the knowledge level concerning risk factors and self-care methods in patients with diabetes mellitus and neuropathic ulcer. Method: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in 135 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and neuropathic ulceration from November 2018 to November 2019. All patients registered in two different family doctor's office associated to the Policlínico Universitario "Dr. Rudesindo Antonio García del Rijo" in Sancti Spíritus. Variables studied were: age, sex, knowledge level concerning risk factors and self-care methods. Results: The outcomes were summarized on a table to be assessed, which revealed female sex patients aged 60 to 70 years as predominant to suffer type 2 diabetes mellitus. An inadequate knowledge concerning the most outstanding risk factors was the cause of arising cardiovascular disease. The most well-known self-care measure was to maintain an effective treatment for diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: Female sex patients aged 60 to 71 years were most assessed being predominant. The most predominant aspects of ignorance found in the study were the family history associated to diabetes mellitus and the ignorance related to self-care measures, mainly on the practice of personal hygiene.

RESUMO Introdução: O conhecimento dos fatores de risco e das medidas de autocuidado em pacientes com diabetes mellitus é considerado um elemento essencial em seu tratamento. Objetivo: Avaliar o nível de conhecimento sobre fatores de risco e medidas de autocuidado em pacientes com diabetes mellitus com úlcera neuropática. Método: Estudo transversal descritivo realizado em 135 pacientes portadores de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 com úlcera neuropática pertencentes a dois consultórios do médico de família da Policlínica Universitária "Dr. Rudesindo Antonio García del Rijo" de Sancti Spíritus no período de novembro de 2018 a novembro de 2019. As variáveis ​​estudadas foram: idade, sexo, nível de conhecimento sobre fatores de risco e medidas de autocuidado. Resultados: Os resultados agrupados em forma de tabelas mostraram predomínio de pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 do sexo feminino na faixa etária de 60 a 70 anos. O nível inadequado de conhecimento dos fatores de risco mais destacados era o histórico de doenças cardiovasculares. As medidas de autocuidado mais conhecidas foram a manutenção do tratamento para diabetes mellitus. Conclusões: Na investigação prevaleceu o sexo feminino de 60 a 71 anos. O nível de desconhecimento prevalente foi a história familiar de diabetes mellitus, bem como maior grau de desconhecimento nas medidas a serem levadas em consideração para o autocuidado na prática da higiene corporal.

Enfisema subcutáneo extenso / Extensive subcutaneous emphysema / Enfisema subcutâneo extenso

Resumen: El enfisema subcutáneo es una complicación relativamente frecuente y por lo general autolimitada tras la colocación de un tubo de toracostomía. El enfisema subcutáneo relacionado con la ventilación mecánica a presión positiva puede condicionar tensión subcutánea palpable (aumento de volumen y crepitación subcutánea), cierre palpebral, disfagia, disfonía y, asociado con pneumoperitoneo, compromiso de la vía aérea e insuficiencia respiratoria «fenómeno de tensión¼ clasificándolo por estas características como enfisema subcutáneo extenso.

Abstract: Subcutaneous emphysema is common complication self-limited complication of tube thoracostomy. Any subcutaneous emphysema on positive pressure ventilation, causing palpable cutaneous tension, palpebral closure, dysphagia, and dysphonia or associated with pneumoperitoneum, airway compromise, «tension phenomenon¼ and respiratory failure is labelled extensive subcutaneous emphysema.

Resumo: O enfisema subcutâneo é uma complicação relativamente comum e geralmente autolimitada após a colocação de um tubo de toracostomia. O enfisema subcutâneo relacionado à ventilação mecânica com pressão positiva pode levar a tensão subcutânea palpável (aumento de volume e crepitação subcutânea), fechamento da pálpebra, disfagia, disfonia; associado a pneumoperitônio, comprometimento das vias aéreas e insuficiência respiratória «fenômeno tensional¼ classificando-o por essas características como enfisema subcutâneo extenso.

Synovial fluid analysis for the enhanced clinical diagnosis of crystal arthropathies in a tertiary care institution.

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES: Few studies have addressed the detection and clinical impact of different crystals in patients with diverse rheumatologic diagnoses in Latin America. The aim of this study was to assess the consistency between the clinical referring diagnosis and the identification of crystals, such as monosodium urate (MSU) and calcium pyrophosphate (CPP), in the synovial fluid (SF) of patients from a Mexican tertiary care institution. METHODS: We reviewed the results of 264 SF analyses to identify any changes in diagnosis upon SF analysis. We reported patient medical file data on sex, age, diagnosis, and microscopic SF analysis results. We performed consistency analyses between referring diagnoses and SF findings with McNemar's test. RESULTS: The prevalence of MSU crystals in SF was noted in 89.1% of gout cases and 9.09% of cases of calcium pyrophosphate disease (CPPD). CPP crystals were present in 54.5% of CPPD cases, 42.9% of osteoarthritis (OA) cases, and 7.27% of gout cases. Calcium hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals were identified in 5.45% of gout cases, 33.3% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) cases, 57.1% of OA cases, and 63.6% of CPPD cases. Cholesterol and lipid crystals were present in small proportions in RA cases. Glucocorticoid crystals were observed in 1.85% of gout cases, 44.4% of RA cases, and 42.9% of OA cases. We observed an association of MSU identification with clinical suspicion of gout (P = 0.08), CPP with OA (P = 0.26) and CPPD (P = 0.50). An association was noted between HA and the diagnosis of CPPD (P = 0.84) and OA (P > 0.99). The number of initial diagnoses that changed upon SF analysis was 14.3%. CONCLUSIONS: SF analysis has major diagnostic value regarding MSU crystals and gout. Our findings underscore the importance of SF crystal analysis in identifying the prevalence of crystals in the Mexican population. SF analysis provides for better diagnosis of crystal arthropathies and improves the quality of the medical care that the patient receives. Key Points • Synovial fluid analysis in laboratories from developing countries has been scarce. • In some cases, the initial diagnosis is modified after of synovial fluid analysis. • This study confirmed that synovial fluid analysis exhibits major diagnostic value for urate crystals and gout.

Stem cells from human dental pulp and apical papilla: Morphological and synchrotron radiation analysis.

BACKGROUND: Dental Mesenchymal stem cells has prompted great for cell-based therapeutics. But no one knows for sure what the true potential of these cells, since most of the studies were done in isolation, using as source, different donors or different cell processing conditions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An enriched population of cells positive for CD146, STRO-1, and CD90 was isolated of third molars teeth indicated for extraction of patient with of 16 years old. Analysis of cell kinetics, and subcellular tests were performed to assess the presence of minor and trace elements by using synchrotron radiation x-ray fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS: In the cell kinetics assays, the enriched populations showed generally slower growth as compared to those that were non-enriched. In comparison between the pulp and papilla populations, the derived pulp grew more rapidly than that derived from the papilla. The CD90 + cells exhibited a smaller pulp area compared to other populations, but the papilla of these cells exhibited a larger area. The CD90 + cells exhibited higher amounts of P, S, Cl, K, and Ca, while the Cu and Zn exhibited more than CD146-. STRO1 - exhibited K and Cu. For both the pulp and the papilla, multipotent stem cells positive for all three markers were present. CONCLUSIONS: Although they have been obtained from the same tooth and donor, as well as were grown, the populations derived from these two tissues have different growth morphology and kinetics. The biochemical differences show different metabolic patterns, reflecting in part the growth differences. Key words:Synchrotron radiation, dental stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, chemical composition.

Higiene de las prótesis removibles en pacientes atendidos en la Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo, Ecuador 2019 / Hygiene for removable dental prostheses in patients assisted at San Gregorio de Portoviejo University, Ecuador 2019

RESUMEN Introducción: la prótesis dental removible es un tratamiento rehabilitador que devuelve las funciones al sistema estomatognático; para su éxito se necesita responsabilidad y compromiso entre el profesional y el paciente sobre la higiene y modo de uso. Objetivo: determinar el estado higiénico de la prótesis removible acrílica en los pacientes atendidos en las clínicas odontológicas de la Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo en el periodo marzo-agosto de 2019. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal utilizando un cuestionario y una ficha de observación validados. Todos los sujetos de la investigación firmaron el consentimiento informado antes de responder el cuestionario y ser examinados. Se aplicó la estadística descriptiva, frecuencia y porcentaje. Resultados: fueron evaluados 100 paciente, con predominio del sexo femenino (74 %), y la edad de 50 años o más (54 %). Los resultados muestran que el 53 % de los pacientes usan prótesis confeccionadas por cinco o más años, y que el 94 % no ha asistido a controles subsiguientes. El método mecánico (86 %) es el más utilizado para higienizar las prótesis, y en el 65 % de las prótesis se observó acumulación de placa bacteriana y restos de alimento. La mayoría de los pacientes (78 %) usa la prótesis dental durante todo el día (24 horas) y, cerca de la mitad, tiene signos clínicos de estomatitis subprotésica (46 %). Conclusiones: la mayoría de los pacientes no cumplen con las normas de higiene y uso de las prótesis removibles por lo cual se necesita un cambio en su educación y seguimiento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: the removable dental prostheses is a rehabilitation treatment that returns the functions to the stomatognathic system; for its successful action it is necessary responsibility and commitment between the professional and the patient on hygiene and mode of use. Objective: to determine the hygienic condition of the removable acrylic prostheses in patients attended in the dental clinics at San Gregorio de Portoviejo University in the period March - August 2019. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using a validated questionnaire and observation worksheet. All participants in the research provided handwritten signature informed consent form before answering the questionnaire and being examined. Descriptive statistics, frequency and percentage were applied. Results: a total of 100 patients were evaluated, with higher prevalence in females (74%), and 50 years of age or more (54%). The results show that 53% of the patients use prostheses made for five or more years, and 94% have not attended subsequent checks. The mechanical method (86%) is the most used to sanitize the prostheses, and in 65% of the prostheses was observed accumulation of bacterial plaque and food debris. Most patients (78%) wear their prostheses throughout the day (24 hours) and about half have clinical signs of subprosthetic stomatitis (46%). Conclusions: Most patients do not comply with the rules of hygiene and use of removable prostheses so a change is needed in their education and monitoring.

Efectos de la estimulación de las funciones cognitivas en adultos mayores / Effects of the stimulation of cognitive functions in the elderly

RESUMEN Introducción: el envejecimiento trae como consecuencia el deterioro de las funciones cognitivas, por lo que resulta necesario diseñar alternativas terapéuticas para prevenir este proceso. Objetivo: determinar el efecto que tiene la estimulación de las funciones cognitivas en adultos mayores. Métodos: se realizó un estudio con un diseño pre-experimental. El universo consistió en 44 adultos mayor, la muestra estuvo compuesta por 18 pacientes a los que se le realizó el estímulo cognoscitivo. La intervención tuvo un total de 20 sesiones, con una frecuencia de dos veces por semana. Las técnicas de evaluación empleadas fueron el análisis de documentos, la entrevista psicológica semiestructurada, la observación participativa, la Batería de Exploración Neuropsicológica (NEUROPSI), la Escala de Depresión Geriátrica, el test no paramétrico de Wilcoxon y la distribución de frecuencia absoluta y porcentaje relativo. Resultados: se obtuvo cambios significativos en las tareas de dígitos en regresión, memoria, comprensión, fluidez verbal semántica y fonológica, lectura, semejanzas, cálculo, cambios en las posiciones de las manos (mano derecha), movimientos alternos y reacciones opuestas. Conclusiones: la estimulación cognitiva demostró un efecto medianamente positivo en las funciones de los adultos mayores de la Casa de Abuelos #1 en Santa Clara.

ABSTRACT Introduction: aging results in the decline of cognitive functions, consequently it is necessary to design therapeutic alternatives to prevent this process. Objective: to determine the effects of the stimulation of cognitive functions in the elderly. Methods: a study with a pre-experimental design was conducted. The target group included 44 of the oldest adults, the sample comprised 18 of them, and it was chosen from whom received the cognitive stimulus. The intervention had 20 sessions with a frequency of two times per week. The assessment techniques applied were documentary analysis, along with the Battery of Neuropsychological Exploration (NEUROPSI), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Wilcoxon non-parametric test, as well as the distribution by absolute frequency and relative percentage. Results: significant changes were observed in the tasks of counting numbers in regression, memory, comprehension, semantic and phonological oral fluency, reading, similarities, calculation, changes in the position of hands (right hand), alternative movements and opposite reactions Conclusions: cognitive stimulation showed an average positive effect on the functions of the elderly.

Caracterización de la estomatitis subprotésica en portadores de prótesis removible en clínicas de la Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo, Ecuador / Characterization of subprosthetic stomatitis in patients with removable prosthesis. San Gregorio de Portoviejo University

RESUMEN Introducción: La estomatitis subprotésica es un proceso inflamatorio de la mucosa bucal que se encuentra cubierta por una prótesis removible, de causa multifactorial y alta prevalencia. Objetivo: Caracterizar la estomatitis subprotésica en pacientes portadores de prótesis removible atendidos en las clínicas odontológicas de la Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo en el período marzo-noviembre de 2019. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal, con los criterios de inclusión siguientes: mayores de 18 años, ambos sexos, buen estado de salud general, no practicar hábitos tóxicos, usar prótesis removible, total o parcial, confeccionada de acrílico o metales. Todos los sujetos de la investigación firmaron el consentimiento informado antes de realizarles la historia clínica de odontología del Ministerio de Salud Pública del Ecuador de donde se extrajeron los datos sociodemográficos, signos clínicos y características de la prótesis. Resultados: Fueron evaluados 100 pacientes. El 45 %, presentaba signos clínicos de estomatitis subprotésica; predominó el sexo femenino con el 33 % y el grupo de edad de 40 a 59 años con un 26 %. La mayoría de las prótesis no se ajustan ni adaptan de manera correcta, y tienen un mal estado físico, en el 80, 82,2 y el 91 %, respectivamente. El 84,4 % de los pacientes utilizaba prótesis parcial removible, confeccionadas con acrílico, por un periodo de 1 a 6 años en el 60 % de los casos. Conclusiones: El diagnóstico de estomatitis subprotésica se asocia con el mal estado físico, desajuste e inadecuada adaptación de las prótesis removibles, lo que indica la necesidad de la institución para el establecimiento de estrategias docentes hacia la comunidad para su prevención y diagnóstico temprano.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Subprosthetic stomatitis is an inflammatory process of the mucosa in the oral cavity covered by a removable prosthesis, with a multifactorial cause and high prevalence. Objective: To characterize subprosthetic stomatitis in patients with removable prosthesis treated at the dental clinics of San Gregorio University in Portoviejo in the period March-November 2019. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, with the following inclusion criteria: patients over 18 years old, both sexes, good general health, no toxic habits, use of removable prosthesis, total or partial, made of acrylic or metals. All the patients involved in the research signed their consent, information given to them before taking their dental records taken by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador, from which socio-demographic data, clinical signs and characteristics of the prosthesis were extracted. Results: 100 patients were evaluated. Forty-five per cent showed clinical signs of subprosthetic stomatitis; the female sex (33%) predominated and the age group 40-59 years with (26%). Most of the prosthesis did not fit or adapt correctly and were in poor physical condition in 80%, 82.2% and 91% respectively. 84.4% of the patients used removable partial prosthesis, made of acrylic, for a period of 1 to 6 years, (60%) of the cases. Conclusions: The diagnosis of subprosthetic stomatitis is associated with poor physical condition, maladjustment and inadequate adaptation of removable prostheses, which indicates the need for the institution to establish educational strategies towards the community for prevention and early diagnosis.

Desinfección de las impresiones dentales, soluciones desinfectantes y métodos de desinfección. Revisión de literatura / Disinfection of dental impressions, disinfectant solutions and disinfection methods. Literature review

La toma de impresiones en Odontología es un procedimiento frecuentemente realizado y su contaminación por microorganismos presentes en la flora bucal exige que sea some-tida a un procedimiento de desinfección después de ser retirada de boca, para reducir al máximo los riesgos de infección cruzada tanto en la clínica como en el laboratorio. Las impresiones pueden ser fuente de transmisión de infecciones entre el odontólogo y el laboratorio debido al contacto con saliva y sangre del paciente, que luego infectan de forma cruzada los moldes de yeso. Se han descrito varios métodos de desinfección de impresiones en la literatura que tienen sus propias ventajas, desventajas y efectos sobre el material de impresión. Con el fin de mejorar el conocimiento y el comportamiento de los trabajadores de la salud dental con respecto a la desinfección de impresiones, en la presen-te revisión se sintetizan las técnicas de desinfección actuales así como sus efectos sobre la estabilidad dimensional y reproducción de detalles de los materiales de impresión. El uso de un desinfectante de nivel medio es recomendado por la Asociación Dental Americana, siendo los agentes químicos más accesibles que los agentes físicos por su fácil aplicación y menor costo. El desinfectante más recomendado es el hipoclorito de sodio al 5,25%, debido a sus mínimas interacciones, su bajo precio y, aunque la solución es poco estable, su renovación es fácil y económica.

Impression taking in dentistry is a frequent performed procedure and its contamination by microorganisms present in the oral flora requires that it be subjected to a disinfection procedure after being removed from the mouth, to minimize the risks of cross infection both in the clinic as in the laboratory. Impressions can be a source of infections trans-mission between the dentist and the laboratory due to the contact with saliva and blood of the patient, which then cross-infect the plaster casts. Several methods of impressions disinfection had been described in the literature that has their own advantages, disad-vantages and effects on the impression material. In order to improve the knowledge and behavior of dental health workers regarding the disinfection of impressions, the present review summarizes current disinfection techniques as well as their effects on dimensional stability and reproduction of details of impression materials: The use of a mid-level dis-infectant is recommended by the American Dental Association, chemical agents being more accessible than physical agents because of their easy application and lower cost. The most recommended disinfectant is 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, due to the minimal interactions with impression materials, although the solution is not very stable, it is economical and easy to obtain.