Framework's marginal adaptation evaluation of fixed partial denture using conventional and digital impression techniques.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the marginal and internal misfit of fixed partial denture zirconia frameworks developed from conventional impression and intraoral scanning, before and after being subjected to the thermal cycle of the covering ceramic. METHODS: A three-elements fixed partial denture was prepared, molded, and poured with polyurethane. Group CI (n= 7) was impressed by the conventional technique with polyvinyl siloxane material, and the plaster models scanned on the inEosX5 bench scanner. Group DI (n=07) was scanned using the CEREC Bluecam intraoral scanner. The models and images obtained were sent to the laboratory and the frameworks were made using zirconia blocks. After this, they were subjected to the ceramic thermal cycle, simulating the ceramic application. Marginal and internal misfits of the frameworks were measured before (T1) and after (T2) thermal cycle simulation using the replica technique in an optical microscope. Statistical analysis was performed using the mixed effects of linear model tests and comparisons. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences for axial misfit. Significant differences were found between the groups for occlusal, vertical, horizontal, and absolute misfit, where group CI had higher values than group DI (P< 0.001). At the time, there was a statistical difference only in the absolute misfit, where T1 had lower values than T2. The misfit in group CI was greater than in group DI; however, the average misfit values found are low and considered clinically acceptable. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Knowing marginal and internal misfit is an important step to consolidating digital impressions in fixed partial dentures, implying a secure use of this technique.

Enhancing Removable Partial Dentures Hygiene: Investigating Mucolytic Agents and Biocides for Disrupting Biofilms and Improving Antimicrobial Efficacy.

PURPOSE: This study evaluates the antibiofilm action of 2.5 mg/mL peracetic acid (PA), 0.5 mg/mL cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and 160 mg/mL N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) against multispecies biofilm of Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Candida glabrata, developed on surfaces of heat-polymerizing acrylic resin (AR) and cobaltchromium (Co-Cr) alloy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multispecies biofilm was grown on the surface of AR and Co-Cr specimens (Ø 12×3mm). After biofilm maturation, the specimens were immersed in experimental solutions and evaluated through biofilm viability (CFU) (n=9), biofilm metabolic activity (XTT) (n=9), biofilm-covered areas (Live/Dead) (n=2), effects on the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) (n=2) and biofilm morphology (n=1). Data were analyzed by ANOVA and the Tukey post-test or Kruskal-Wallis followed by the Dunn post-test (α=.05). RESULTS: Overall, all evaluated solutions impacted biofilm viability. PA presented wider activity by reducing CFU of all microorganisms on both surfaces, XTT (P<.001) and Live/Dead (P<.001). NAC had a notorious effect in reducing the viability of bacteria without affecting the yeasts. NAC reduced XTT on AR (P=.006) and Co-Cr (P=.003) but did not reduce the aggregated biofilm layer. CPC had distinct effect according to the surface, being most effective in reducing CFU on AR than the Co-Cr surface. However, it did not influence XTT, and the amount of residual aggregated biofilm. CONCLUSIONS: PA provided the greatest antibiofilm action, while CPC and NAC showed intermediate action. Nonetheless, no solution was able to completely remove the biofilm adhered to the surfaces of heat-polymerizing AR and Co-Cr alloy.

Effects of Cannabidiol on Bone Quality in Ovariectomized Rats.

The incidence of osteoporosis and related fractures increases significantly with age, impacting public health and associated costs. Postmenopausal osteoporosis results from increased bone resorption due to decreased estrogen levels. The endocannabinoid system, especially cannabidiol (CBD), has shown therapeutic potential in modulating bone formation. This study investigated the effects of administration of CBD in rats after the onset of with ovariectomy-induced osteopenia (OVX). Forty-eight female Sprague‒Dawley rats were divided into four groups (n = 12): OVX + CBD, SHAM + CBD, OVX + vehicle, and SHAM + vehicle. CBD was administered intraperitoneally for 3 weeks. After euthanasia, the bone quality, mechanical properties, and bone microarchitecture of the femurs and lumbar vertebrae were assessed by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), bone densitometry, mechanical tests, and histological and immunohistochemical analyses. CBD treatment improved the bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar vertebrae and increased the BV/TV% and Tb.N in the femoral neck. There were also improvements in the mechanical properties, such as the maximum force and stiffness of the femurs and vertebrae. CBD significantly increased the bone matrix in osteopenic femurs and vertebrae, Although did not significantly influence the expression of RANKL and OPG, in ovariectomized animals, there was an increase in osteoblasts and a decrease in osteoclasts. Determining the optimal timing for CBD use in relation to postovariectomy bone loss remains a crucial issue. Understanding when and how CBD can be most effective in preventing or treating bone loss is essential to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. However, further studies are needed to explore in more detail the efficacy and safety of CBD in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Metronidazole Modified-Release Therapy Using Two Different Polymeric Systems Gels or Films: Clinical Study for the Treatment of Periodontitis.

This study evaluated the efficacy of semisolid systems (gels) and films containing a combination of metronidazole (MTZ) and metronidazole benzoate after scaling and root-planing (SRP) for periodontitis. In total, 45 patients with stage I or II periodontitis were enrolled and divided into 3 groups: 1-SRP-control; 2-SRP + Film with MTZ; 3-SRP + Gel with MTZ. The pH of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) before/after treatments, MTZ concentrations, and drug release using high-performance liquid chromatography were investigated. The effects were evaluated by longitudinal monitoring of clinical parameters (probing depth-PD, clinical attachment level-CAL, and bleeding on probing-BP). MTZ and MTZ-benzoate concentrations in the periodontal pocket and pH showed no statistical difference after application. SRP + Gel presented the lowest CAL values. For SRP + Film and SRP + Gel, higher PD values were observed at T0 compared to all groups. A relevant reduction in BP was observed in SRP + Film and SRP + Gel groups at all times compared to T0. Both therapies improved periodontal health compared to SRP alone, reducing PD and BP, and increasing CAL for the gel group, suggesting they are promising for periodontal disease treatment.

Assessing the Accuracy, Completeness, and Reliability of Artificial Intelligence-Generated Responses in Dentistry: A Pilot Study Evaluating the ChatGPT Model.

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a tool in the diagnosis and acquisition of knowledge, particularly in dentistry, sparking debates on its application in clinical decision-making. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of the responses generated by Chatbot Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) 3.5 in dentistry using expert-formulated questions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Experts were invited to create three questions, answers, and respective references according to specialized fields of activity. The Likert scale was used to evaluate agreement levels between experts and ChatGPT responses. Statistical analysis compared descriptive and binary question groups in terms of accuracy and completeness. Questions with low accuracy underwent re-evaluation, and subsequent responses were compared for improvement. The Wilcoxon test was utilized (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Ten experts across six dental specialties generated 30 binary and descriptive dental questions and references. The accuracy score had a median of 5.50 and a mean of 4.17. For completeness, the median was 2.00 and the mean was 2.07. No difference was observed between descriptive and binary responses for accuracy and completeness. However, re-evaluated responses showed a significant improvement with a significant difference in accuracy (median 5.50 vs. 6.00; mean 4.17 vs. 4.80; p=0.042) and completeness (median 2.0 vs. 2.0; mean 2.07 vs. 2.30; p=0.011). References were more incorrect than correct, with no differences between descriptive and binary questions. CONCLUSIONS: ChatGPT initially demonstrated good accuracy and completeness, which was further improved with machine learning (ML) over time. However, some inaccurate answers and references persisted. Human critical discernment continues to be essential to facing complex clinical cases and advancing theoretical knowledge and evidence-based practice.

Drug-Associated Acute Kidney Disease: Data From a World Pharmacovigilance Database.

Background Drugs are a frequent cause of nephrotoxicity, especially in the context of acute kidney disease (AKD), with a significant number of cases being drug-associated. The WHO's VigiBase is a powerful tool for identifying drugs described and associated with the development of AKD. Methods We retrieved data from the period 1968 to 2022 regarding notifications of adverse drug reactions (ADR). The extracted medications were evaluated for their nephrotoxicity based on the bibliographic score (BS) developed through pre-selected references. The main medications involved were classified as 'non-nephrotoxic', 'potentially nephrotoxic', and 'nephrotoxic'. We utilized the IC025 and reporting odds ratio (ROR) disproportionality indexes to study the relationship between medications and the odds of being included in an AKD notification. Results During the period, a total of 33,932,051 notifications were obtained, revealing 435,677 cases related to drug-associated AKD following MedDRA term filtering, predominantly affecting males aged 45-64. We identified 8,991 active ingredients or suspected combinations associated with AKD development, with the ATC class A - Alimentary Tract and Metabolism being the most frequently described. Among the medications most strongly associated with this phenotype, classes J and N stood out. Among the most notable medications collected, 8.3% were classified as "non-nephrotoxic," 16.7% as "potentially nephrotoxic," and 75% as "known nephrotoxic." Notable active ingredients included cobicistat + elvitegravir + emtricitabine + tenofovir disoproxil (IC025 8.7; ROR 786.96), inotersen (IC025 7.7; ROR 604.57), emtricitabine + tenofovir disoproxil (IC025 7.9; ROR 432.36), esomeprazole (IC025 6.8; ROR 184.23), and pantoprazole (IC025 6.3; ROR 109.86), with proton pump inhibitors dominating the top four positions among the most frequently involved medications. Conclusion AKD is a frequent adverse reaction in VigiBase, with a significantly high reported mortality rate. Evaluation of the notifications revealed medications with a high disproportionality index and a strong association with AKD. We also highlight the potential nephrotoxic role of less suspected medications. This study emphasizes the need to consider AKD as a condition potentially associated with iatrogenic etiology, highlighting various medications and their respective involvement in the various possible manifestations of AKD.

Drug-Related Glomerular Phenotypes: A Global Pharmacovigilance Perspective.

Introduction: Adverse drug reactions are a significant problem in modern society, stemming from the increase in prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, and overall polypharmacy. Glomerular disorders are one of the frequently reported renal conditions associated with medication use. VigiBase is a significant tool for evaluating events associated with drug use, and, to the authors' knowledge, no study has yet assessed this database to identify the primary medications associated with glomerular disorders. Materials and Methods: We collected data from VigiBase for 54 years and evaluated data based on global frequencies, disproportionality (IC025 values), nephrotoxic potential, and physiopathological mechanisms. Results: Over the evaluation period, 33.932.051 spontaneous notifications of adverse drug reactions reported in VigiBase were assessed, from which 106.775 notifications of drug-associated glomerular disorders were extracted. The isolated medications were classified as 'potential nephrotoxins' (47.0%), with 40% of the medications lacking scientific references to report any association with the development of glomerular disorders. Among the evaluated medications, Inotersen (IC025 of 8.3), Penicillamine (IC025 6.8), Bevacizumab (IC025 5.9) and Lenvatinib (IC025 5.4) were identified as having the strongest association with these glomerular disorders. For medications classified as 'non-nephrotoxic', a high disproportionality index was observed, suggesting drugs that might be considered as new potential nephrotoxins. Conclusions: Drug-induced glomerular disorders were significantly associated with medications that had no established nephrotoxic role but demonstrated a high disproportionality index in VigiBase. These newly alleged nephrotoxic drugs warrant further evaluation in dedicated studies to assess their true nephrotoxic potential.

Near-infrared spectroscopy and multivariate analysis as effective, fast, and cost-effective methods to discriminate Candida auris from Candida haemulonii.

Candida auris and Candida haemulonii are two emerging opportunistic pathogens that have caused an increase in clinical cases in the recent years worldwide. The differentiation of some Candida species is highly laborious, difficult, costly, and time-consuming depending on the similarity between the species. Thus, this study aimed to develop a new, faster, and less expensive methodology for differentiating between C. auris and C. haemulonii based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and multivariate analysis. C. auris CBS10913 and C. haemulonii CH02 were separated in 15 plates per species, and three isolated colonies of each plate were selected for Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) analysis, totaling 90 spectra. Subsequently, principal component analysis (PCA) and variable selection algorithms, including the successive projections algorithm (SPA) and genetic algorithm (GA) coupled with linear discriminant analysis (LDA), were employed to discern distinctive patterns among the samples. The use of PCA, SPA, and GA algorithms associated with LDA achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity for the discriminations. The SPA-LDA and GA-LDA algorithms were essential in selecting the variables (infrared wavelengths) of most importance for the models, which could be attributed to binding of cell wall structures such as polysaccharides, peptides, proteins, or molecules resulting from yeasts' metabolism. These results show the high potential of combined FT-NIR and multivariate analysis techniques for the classification of Candida-like fungi, which can contribute to faster and more effective diagnosis and treatment of patients affected by these microorganisms.

Effect of disinfectants on multispecies biofilm, the physical and mechanical properties of polymethyl methacrylate, and the corrosion of cobalt chromium alloy.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The optimal disinfection protocol that controls adverse effects and promotes effective antimicrobial action on removable prostheses is unclear. PURPOSE: This in vitro study investigated the effect of disinfectant solutions on the biological, physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of removable prosthesis materials. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Specimens of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and cobalt chromium (Co-Cr) alloy were immersed in distilled water (PMMA) or artificial saliva (Co-Cr) as the control and in 0.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl0.25%), 0.5% chloramine T (CT0.5%), and 0.15% Triclosan (TR0.15%). The antibiofilm activity was evaluated by microbial load and cell metabolisms of the mixed biofilm. Physical (color change, sorption, solubility, and surface roughness), mechanical (hardness, flexural, and impact strength), and chemical (corrosion) properties were analyzed before and after simulating a 5-year immersion. Laser confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dispersive energy spectroscopy (EDS) complemented the analyses. The data were analyzed by using the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn posttests, 1-way ANOVA, and repeated measures ANOVA (α=.05). RESULTS: All solutions were effective against bacteria, but only NaOCl0.25% eliminated Candida spp. TR0.15%, and CT0.5% increased cell metabolisms. For interaction (time and solution), there was a reduction in PMMA hardness in the control and TR0.15%. Color, sorption, solubility, and flexural strength did not change. CT0.5% and TR0.15% were similar for impact resistance. CT0.5% caused the lowest roughness. NaOCl0.25% showed the greatest corrosive potential. Dark spots were seen under SEM in Co-Cr stored with NaOCl0.25% and TR0.15%. EDS indicated different proportions of oxygen, cobalt, chromium, and molybdenum. CONCLUSIONS: NaOCl0.25% had the best antimicrobial action. CT0.5% and TR0.15% have potential. Hardness and roughness changes were clinically acceptable, and the other properties remained unchanged. All the solutions caused color changes. NaOCl0.25% was unsatisfactory for use with Co-Cr, CT0.5% was intermediate, and TR0.15% was suitable.

Dielectric Characterization of Solutions of Galactomannan Extracted from Adenanthera pavonina L.: Effects of Purification and Ethanol Concentration.

Galactomannans are polysaccharides obtained from legume seed extraction. They present a chemical structure consisting of D-mannose chains linked by glycosidic bonds and galactose branches. The main focus lies in their use as thickeners in the food industry, aimed at improving the dielectric properties of food during heating processes within the radiofrequency and microwave ranges. In this work, the prepared galactomannan samples were electrically analyzed through impedance spectroscopy, which is a powerful physical technique. From the experimental measurements, the dielectric permittivity and loss tangent of the galactomannan solutions were analyzed and the electrical modulus formalism was used to study the dielectric relaxations. Crude galactomannans exhibited higher values of permittivity, conductivity, and losses compared to purified galactomannans. Increasing ethanol concentration in galactomannan purification causes an increase in the permittivity and conductivity of galactomannan solutions. In a 1% solution, at 1 kHz, the permittivity increased from 378.56 to 538.09, while in the 2% solution, this increase was from 656.22 to 1103.24. Regarding the conductivity, at the same frequency, the increase was from 1.6 × 10-3 to 3.3 × 10-3 Ω-1m-1 and from 2.9 × 10-3 to 5.5 × 10-3 Ω-1m-1, respectively. The rise of the ethanol concentration in galactomannan purification led to a decrease in the relaxation time, from 448.56 to 159.15 µs and from 224.81 to 89.50 µs in the solution with 1 and 2%, respectively. The results suggest that galactomannan from Adenanthera pavonina L. has potential for use in the food industry.

Effectiveness of experimental dentifrices based on essential oils on biofilm on complete dentures: an in vitro study.

Specific products containing natural resources can contribute to the innovation of complete denture hygiene. OBJECTIVE: To conduct an in vitro evaluation of experimental dentifrices containing essential oils of Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (BvK), Copaifera officinalis (Co), Eucalyptus citriodora (Ec), Melaleuca alternifolia (Ma) and Pinus strobus (Ps) at 1%. METHODOLOGY: The variables evaluated were organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics, abrasiveness (mechanical brushing machine) simulating 2.5 years, and microbial load (Colony Forming Units - CFU/mL), metabolic activity (XTT assay) and cell viability (Live/Dead® BacLight™ kit) of the multispecies biofilm (Streptococcus mutans: Sm, Staphylococcus aureus: Sa, Candida albicans: Ca and Candida glabrata: Cg). Specimens of heat-polymerized acrylic resins (n=256) (n=96 specimens for abrasiveness, n=72 for microbial load count, n=72 for biofilm metabolic activity, n=16 for cell viability and total biofilm quantification) with formed biofilm were divided into eight groups for manual brushing (20 seconds) with a dental brush and distilled water (NC: negative control), Trihydral (PC: positive control), placebo (Pl), BvK, Co, Ec, Ma or Ps. After brushing, the specimens were washed with PBS and immersed in Letheen Broth medium, and the suspension was sown in solid specific medium. The organoleptic characteristics were presented by descriptive analysis. The values of density, pH, consistency and viscosity were presented in a table. The data were analyzed with the Wald test in a generalized linear model, followed by the Kruskal-Wallis test, Dunn's test (mass change) and the Bonferroni test (UFC and XTT). The Wald test in Generalized Estimating Equations and the Bonferroni test were used to analyze cell viability. RESULTS: All dentifrices showed stable organoleptic characteristics and adequate physicochemical properties. CN, Ec, Ps, Pl and PC showed low abrasiveness. There was a significant difference between the groups (p<0.001) for microbial load, metabolic activity and biofilm viability. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the BvK, Ec and Ps dentifrices are useful for cleaning complete dentures, as they have antimicrobial activity against biofilm. The dentifrices containing Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth showed medium abrasiveness and should be used with caution.

Effects of Different Weekly Set Volumes on Strength and Perceptual Responses in Athletes.

This study investigated the effects of different resistance training (RT) volumes quantified by weekly sets at high intensity (load and effort) on dynamic strength adaptations and psychophysiological responses in trained individuals. Twenty-four athletes were randomly allocated to three groups that performed three (3 S, n=8), six (6 S, n=8), and nine (9 S, n=8) weekly sets, respectively, three times a week on the barbell back squat and bench press during an 8-week period. While all groups showcased strength gains (p<0.05), post hoc comparisons revealed that 6 S and 9 S elicited greater strength adaptations than 3 S in barbell back squat (p=0.027 and p=0.004, respectively) and bench press (p=0.001 and p=0.044, respectively). There were no differences between 6 S and 9 S conditions for back squat (p=0.999) and bench press (p=0.378). Although a time effect was observed for Session-RPE (p=0.014) and Total Quality Recovery scale (p=0.020), psychophysiological responses were similar among groups. Our findings suggest that performing six and nine weekly sets at high intensities led to greater strength gains compared to three weekly sets in strength-trained individuals, despite similar psychophysiological responses.

Educação em saúde: gerenciamento de resíduos hospitalares e uso de equipamentos de proteção individual / Health education: hospital waste management and use of personal protective equipment / Educación sanitaria: gestión de residuos hospitalarios y uso de equipos de protección personal

Objetivo: Desenvolver intervenção educativa sobre gerenciamento dos resíduos de serviços de saúde e uso de equipamentos de proteção individual com profissionais de enfermagem. Métodos: Pesquisa-ação, realizada com profissionais de enfermagem de um hospital da rede pública no nordeste brasileiro, entre janeiro a julho de 2018. Os dados foram organizados com apoio do software webQDA© e análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Resultados: Emergiram duas categorias: Gerenciamento dos Resíduos de Serviços de Saúde e Utilização de Equipamentos de Proteção Individuais. Parte dos profissionais possuíam conhecimento adequado sobre o gerenciamento dos resíduos de serviços de saúde. Os resultados apontam que parcela dos participantes reconhecem a periculosidade que os grupos de resíduos de serviços de saúde possuem, adotando cuidados, porém, reconhecem a ocorrência de condutas não seguras, como uso incorreto de equipamentos de proteção individual. Além disso, os técnicos de enfermagem demostraram conhecimento incipiente sobre os resíduos de serviços de saúde e expressaram mais exposição a riscos ocupacionais. Conclusão: A intervenção educativa realizada evidenciou a necessidade de efetivar a construção de conhecimentos coletivos no âmbito da educação permanente relacionado aos resíduos e riscos ocupacionais entre profissionais de enfermagem. Recomendam-se outros estudos para avaliar a efetividade e impacto da intervenção educativa no ambiente hospitalar. (AU)

Objective: Develop educational intervention on health care waste management and the use of personal protective equipment with nursing professionals. Methods: Action research, carried out with nursing professionals from a public hospital in northeastern Brazil, between January and July 2017. The data were organized with the support of webQDA © software and content analysis by Bardin. Results: Two categories emerged: Waste Management from Health Services and Use of Personal Protective Equipment. Part of the professionals had adequate knowledge about the management of waste from health services. The results show that a portion of the participants recognize the dangerousness that the health service waste groups have, adopting care in relation to these, however, they recognize the occurrence of unsafe conduct, such as incorrect use of personal protective equipment. In addition, nursing technicians demonstrated incipient knowledge about health service waste and expressed more exposure to occupational risks. Conclusion: The educational intervention carried out showed the need to carry out the construction of collective knowledge within the scope of permanent education related to GRSS and occupational risks among nursing professionals. Further studies are recommended to assess the effectiveness and impact of educational intervention in the hospital environment. (AU)

Objetivo: Desarrollar una intervención educativa sobre la gestión de residuos sanitarios y el uso de equipos de protección personal con profesionales de enfermería. Métodos: Investigación acción, realizada con la profesión de un hospital público en el noreste de Brasil, entre enero y julio de 2017. Los datos se organizan con el apoyo del software webQDA © y el análisis de contenido Bardin. Resultados: Surgieron dos categorías: Gestión de dos Residuos de Servicios de Salud y Uso de Equipos de Protección Personal. Los profesionales de la segunda parte tienen el conocimiento o manejo adecuado de dos residuos de los servicios de salud. Los resultados indican que dos participantes reconsideran la peligrosidad que representaban los grupos de residuos del servicio de salud, adhiriéndose cuidados, por lo que reconsideran la ocurrencia de conductas inseguras, como el uso incorrecto de equipos de protección personal. Además, los técnicos de enfermería demostrarán un conocimiento incipiente sobre el desperdicio de servicios de salud y expresarán una mayor exposición a los riesgos laborales. Conclusión: La intervención educativa realizada mostró la necesidad de realizar la construcción de conocimientos colectivos fuera del ámbito de la educación permanente relacionada con los GRSS y los riesgos laborales entre los profesionales de la enfermedad. Recomendamos otros estudios para evaluar la efectividad y el impacto de la intervención educativa en el ámbito hospitalario. (AU)

Unlocking the power of Libidibia ferrea extracts: antimicrobial, antioxidant, and protective properties for potential use in poultry production.

Plant extracts are increasingly recognized as potential prophylactic agents in poultry production due to their diverse bioactive properties. This study investigated the phytochemical and biological properties of Libidibia ferrea (L. ferrea), a plant species native to the Caatinga region of northeastern Brazil. The aim of this study was to identify secondary metabolites and to demonstrate the antimicrobial, antioxidant and protective effects of the plant extract. Three extracts were produced: EHMV, a hydroalcoholic extract from the maceration of pods, and EEMC and EEMV ethanolic extracts from the maceration of peels and pods, respectively, from L. ferrea. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-MS/MS) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) were used to characterize the metabolites and metals. The antimicrobial activity against Salmonella Galinarum (SG), Salmonella pullorum (SP), Salmonella Heidelberg (SH) and Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) was evaluated alone and in combination with probiotic bacteria (Bacillus velenzensis) using agar diffusion and the bactericidal minimum concentration (CBM). The antioxidant potential of the extracts was evaluated in 5 in vitro assays and 6 assays in 3t3 cells. The toxicity of EHMV was tested, and its ability to combat SP infection was demonstrated using a chicken embryo model. The results showed that EHMV exhibited significant antimicrobial activity. The combination of EHMV with BV had synergistic effects, increased antimicrobial activity and induced bacterial sporulation. Composition analysis revealed the presence of 8 compounds, including tannins and phenolic compounds. In vitro antioxidant tests demonstrated that total antioxidant capacity(TAC) activity was increased, and the extract had strong reducing power and notable metal chelating effects. Analysis of 3T3 cells confirmed the protective effect of EHMV against oxidative stress. Toxicity assessments in chicken embryos confirmed the safety of EHMV and its protective effect against SP-induced mortality. EHMV from L. ferrea is rich in proteins and contains essential metabolites that contribute to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. When associated with probiotic bacteria such as B. velezensis, this extract increases the inhibition of SH, SG, SP, and APE. The nontoxic nature of EHMV and its protective effects on chicken embryos make it a potential supplement for poultry.

Evaluation of surface roughness, wettability and adhesion of multispecies biofilm on 3D-printed resins for the base and teeth of complete dentures.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the surface roughness, wettability and adhesion of multispecies biofilms (Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans) on 3D-printed resins for complete denture bases and teeth compared to conventional resins (heat-polymerized acrylic resin; artificial pre-fabricated teeth). METHODOLOGY: Circular specimens (n=39; 6.0 mm Ø × 2.0 mm) of each group were subjected to roughness (n=30), wettability (n=30) and biofilm adhesion (n=9) tests. Three roughness measurements were taken by laser confocal microscopy and a mean value was calculated. Wettability was evaluated by the contact angle of sessile drop method, considering the mean of the three evaluations per specimen. In parallel, microorganism adhesion to resin surfaces was evaluated using a multispecies biofilm model. Microbial load was evaluated by determining the number of Colony Forming Units (CFU/mL) and by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were subjected to the Wald test in a generalized linear model with multiple comparisons and Bonferroni adjustment, as well as two-way ANOVA (α=5%). RESULTS: The roughness of the conventional base resin (0.01±0.04) was lower than that of the conventional tooth (0.14±0.04) (p=0.023) and 3D-printed base (0.18±0.08) (p<0.001). For wettability, conventional resin (84.20±5.57) showed a higher contact angle than the 3D-printed resin (60.58±6.18) (p<0.001). Higher microbial loads of S. mutans (p=0.023) and S. aureus (p=0.010) were observed on the surface of the conventional resin (S. mutans: 5.48±1.55; S. aureus: 7.01±0.57) compared to the 3D-printed resin (S. mutans: 4.11±1.96; S. aureus: 6.42±0.78). The adhesion of C. albicans was not affected by surface characteristics. The conventional base resin showed less roughness than the conventional dental resin and the printed base resin. CONCLUSION: The 3D-printed resins for base and tooth showed less hydrophobicity and less adhesion of S. mutans and S. aureus than conventional resins.

Sleep Disorders and Subjective Well-Being in Portuguese Adults: Evidence from a Representative Study.

Objective The quality and quantity of sleep affect people's well-being, as chronic sleep disorders are associated with social, physical, and psychological problems, as well as low self-reported life satisfaction. The present cross-sectional study examined the associations of sleep disorders with self-reported life satisfaction in Portuguese adults. Materials and Methods Data from a representative sample of the Portuguese population (14,341 participants, aged ≥ 18 years) extracted from the Sixth Portuguese National Health Survey was analyzed. Data on subjective well-being and sleep disorders was collected through a questionnaire, and multivariable regression models were performed to examine the associations between these variables, adjusted for potential confounders such as age, gender, level of schooling, degree of urbanization, and family income. Results Sleep disorders were negatively associated with self-reported life satisfaction. Having at least one sleep disturbance in the last two weeks was significantly associated with a 3-point decrease in life satisfaction: ß = -3.0 (95% confidence interval = -3.2--2.7). Discussion Among Portuguese adults, sleep disorders were associated with a decline in life satisfaction. The present study provides new evidence from a representative sample to support the promotion of good sleep hygiene intervention programs.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Heavy Truck Drivers: A Portuguese Prospective Cohort Study.

INTRODUCTION: Heavy truck drivers with untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at higher risk of driving accidents. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of OSA and to identify the most frequent symptoms and comorbidities in heavy truck drivers. METHODS: This cohort study included the employees of a Portuguese transport company between 2019 and 2022. A home sleep apnea test (HSAT) was performed on all patients. SPSS® was used for statistical analysis, and a p-value lower than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 86 truck drivers were included, with a mean age of 48.02 years (min. 24, max 66) and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 30.14±4.4 kg/m². After performing an HSAT, it was found that 77.9% of drivers (n=67) had OSA, with a mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of 16.72±14.69 events/hour. Concerning diagnosed patients, 44.78% (n=30) had mild, 31.32% (n=23) moderate, and 20.89% (n=14) severe OSA. Obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia had a statistically significant association. There were no statistically significant differences between patients with and without type II diabetes mellitus. The presence of nighttime and daytime symptoms had a statistically significant correlation with OSA diagnosis. Despite only eight patients reporting a high score on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), 14 patients reported previous episodes of falling asleep while driving, which might be associated with the non-valorization of daytime sleepiness in these patients. The patients who reported previous episodes of falling asleep while driving were older and had higher BMI, higher ESS, and higher AHI. CONCLUSIONS: In the evaluated truck drivers, the prevalence of OSA was very high (77.9%), which reinforces the importance of screening for this pathology since, when left untreated, it is a major risk factor for exercising their profession safely.

DHA and EPA in Sickle Cell Disease Favor Clinical Improvement and Contribute to Better Quality of Life: A Qualitative Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Sickle cell disease is a severe genetic disorder, and searching for therapeutic strategies is indispensable for prolonged and improved life for people affected by this condition. OBJECTIVE: This qualitative systematic review aimed to highlight the therapeutic potential of omega- 3 (n-3) in people with sickle cell disease. METHODS: The search was performed by combining sickle cell disease and n-3 descriptors in DeCS/ MeSH databases, including Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library. The risk of bias assessment in the primary studies was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials. The evidence quality was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. RESULTS: From the 187 records identified, seven were selected for data collection. Based on the evidence, n-3 supplementation contributes to lower activation of pro-inflammatory biomarkers, improves the concentration of docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids in the erythrocyte membrane, provides better hemostatic response, and helps in vaso-occlusive crisis, pain episodes, and hospitalization reduction. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that n-3 adjuvant therapy favors the clinical and general aspects of people with sickle cell disease.

An in vitro study using confocal laser scanning microscopy to evaluate the marginal misfits of different implant-supported frameworks.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a simple, non-destructive method for assessing the misfit and passivity of implant-retained prostheses frameworks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To simulate the rehabilitation of a mandible posterior partially edentulous area using 3-unit screw-retained frameworks supported by two implants were fabricated and divided into the following five groups (n = 10 in each group): OP = one-piece framework cast in Co-Cr with the conventional method (control-group); Co-Cr frameworks sectioned and welded by laser (=LAS) or tungsten inert gas (=TIG); Co-Cr CAD-CAM = milled Co-Cr framework; Zir CAD-CAM = milled zirconia framework. The horizontal |X| and vertical |Y| misfits were measured using confocal laser scanning microscopy with one or both screws tightened. Data were analyzed by a two-way ANOVA with repeated measures and Bonferroni correction (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The greatest |X| misfit was observed in the OP group with both screws tightened (290 µm) and one screw tightened (388 and 340 µm). The conventional casting groups sectioned and welded by laser or TIG had lower mean values (235.35 µm, both screws tightened; and 275 µm, one screw tightened) than the OP framework. However, these values still exceeded those of the milled Co-Cr and zirconia frameworks (190 and 216 µm with both screws tightened). Across all reading conditions, every framework subjected to testing consistently maintained vertical |Y| misfit levels below the threshold of 53 µm; however, the milled frameworks exhibited higher vertical misfits than the frameworks obtained by the conventional cast method. CONCLUSIONS: The frameworks, whether cast and sectioned with laser welding or milled from Co-Cr, exhibit improved marginal misfit and enhanced passive fit when compared to other fabrication methods. Additionally, the use of confocal laser scanning microscopy is highly effective for passivity and misfit analysis.

Cafeteria Diet Can Affect Bone Microarchitecture in Sedentary and Trained Male Rats.

INTRODUCTION: Poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle can impair health. Regular physical activity improves the quality of life and is essential for bone health. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of the cafeteria diet on bone quality of sedentary and exercised rats. METHODS: Sixty young male Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n=10) according to diet composition and activity level, being: SD+CON, standard diet and control; SD+SED, standard diet and sedentary; SD+EX, standard diet and exercised; CD+CON, cafeteria diet and control; CD+SED, cafeteria diet and sedentary; CD+EX, cafeteria diet and exercised. The exercise protocol consisted of 10 ladder-climbing sessions/day, 5 days/week, and the sedentary rats were maintained in individual cages with limited mobility. Body mass and food intake were evaluated weekly. After 10 weeks, the animals were euthanized, and white adipose tissue was collected. The bone structure was evaluated by densitometry, mechanical tests, histomorphometric, and micro-computed tomography analyses. RESULTS: The cafeteria diet increased adipose tissue (p<0.001), decreased bone mineral density (p=0.004), and impaired biomechanical properties (p<0.05) and histomorphometry parameters (p=0.044). The sedentarism decreased bone mineral density (p<0.001) and biomechanical properties (p<0.05), and the exercise did not improve bone properties. CONCLUSION: In this experimental model, it was concluded that the cafeteria diet and a sedentary lifestyle negatively affect bone, and ladder-climbing exercise could not prevent the effects of the unhealthy diet.