Immunomodulatory and Antioxidant Effects of Spray-Dried Encapsulated Kale Sprouts after In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion.

The health-related compounds present in kale are vulnerable to the digestive process or storage conditions. Encapsulation has become an alternative for their protection and takes advantage of their biological activity. In this study, 7-day-old Red Russian kale sprouts grown in the presence of selenium (Se) and sulfur (S) were spray-dried with maltodextrin to assess their capacity to protect kale sprout phytochemicals from degradation during the digestion process. Analyses were conducted on the encapsulation efficiency, particle morphology, and storage stability. Mouse macrophages (Raw 264.7) and human intestinal cells (Caco-2) were used to assess the effect of the intestinal-digested fraction of the encapsulated kale sprout extracts on the cellular antioxidant capacity, the production of nitric oxide (NOx), and the concentrations of different cytokines as indicators of the immunological response. The highest encapsulation efficiency was observed in capsules with a 50:50 proportion of the hydroalcoholic extract of kale and maltodextrin. Gastrointestinal digestion affected compounds' content in encapsulated and non-encapsulated kale sprouts. Spray-dried encapsulation reduced the phytochemicals' degradation during storage, and the kale sprouts germinated with S and Se showed less degradation of lutein (35.6%, 28.2%), glucosinolates (15.4%, 18.9%), and phenolic compounds (20.3%, 25.7%), compared to non-encapsulated ones, respectively. S-encapsulates exerted the highest cellular antioxidant activity (94.2%) and immunomodulatory activity by stimulating IL-10 production (88.9%) and COX-2 (84.1%) and NOx (92.2%) inhibition. Thus, encapsulation is an effective method to improve kale sprout phytochemicals' stability and bioactivity during storage and metabolism.

Foam Rolling vs. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching in the Hamstring Flexibility of Amateur Athletes: Control Trials.

BACKGROUND: the use of stretching techniques in the sports world is frequent and common thanks to their many effects. One of the main benefits of stretching is an increased range of motion (ROM). Recently, the use of a foam roller has spread in sports practice due to benefits that are similar to those of shoes observed in stretching. The objective of the following study was to compare the results of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching (PNF) with foam rolling (FR). METHODS: The design of the study was a single-blind, randomized controlled trial (clinicaltrial.gov NCT05134883), and the participants were 80 healthy young athletes. The range of motion was evaluated with a modified sit-and-reach test before, during (at 30 s), and at the end of the intervention (at 2 min). The subject's discomfort sensation was measured using the Borg scale. Effect sizes were calculated using Cohen's d coefficient. Volunteers were randomized into the PNF group or FR group. RESULTS: the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001) during the intervention in favor of PNF group. The differences at the end of intervention showed that the PNF group had a greater increase in flexibility, with this difference being statically significant (p < 0.001). The sensation of perceived exertion with PNF at the end of the intervention was similarly classified as moderate for both groups. CONCLUSION: Despite the fact that the use of FR is spreading in the field of sports and rehabilitation, the results of the present study suggest that the gain in flexibility in the hamstrings is greater if PNF-type stretches are used instead of FR.

Improving services for parents with intellectual disability and their families: Views of Canadian social service workers.

How adults with intellectual disability fare in the parenting role depend, to varying degrees, on the adequacy of supports and services provided. The available research suggests that service providers are often ill-equipped to accommodate their support needs. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the perspectives of Canadian social service workers on what is required to improve services and build systems capacity to more effectively support parents with intellectual disability, their children and families. A total of 39 workers, identified by parents with intellectual disability as their key workers, were interviewed. To build systems capacity to support these parents and families, and to address institutionalised discrimination, key workers highlighted the need for entry-to-practice and continuing professional education to develop worker capabilities for reflective practice, relationship-building and research utilisation; accommodative caseload management, giving workers the time, flexibility and the professional supervision they need to deal with complexity and fashion individualised service responses; and, a common framework, with defined service pathways, to facilitate interagency case planning and, in turn, continuity in service provision. The question is not whether adults with intellectual disability can be effectively supported in the parenting role; the question is whether the political will exists to do what is necessary to ensure they are.

[Lower grip strength values are associated with increased levels of adiposity and excess weight: a cross-sectional study]. / Menores valores de fuerza de prensión manual se asocian a incremento de los niveles de adiposidad y exceso de peso: un estudio transversal.

Introduction: Objective: physical fitness (particularly the muscular strength component) is one of the most powerful markers of health. However, few studies have described the relationship of the higher adiposity phenotype with muscular strength in Latino schoolchildren. The aim of the present study was to determine the association between levels of handgrip strength (HGS) with different anthropometric markers. The central hypothesis of this study was that lower HGS values are associated with a higher adiposity phenotype in a sample of schoolchildren and adolescents. Research methods and procedures: a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 6 public schools in Bogotá, Colombia, with a final sample of 430 participants (55.8 % women) between 9 and 17.9 years of age. Handgrip strength (HGS) was assessed with a handheld dynamometer, and normalized as HGS per body mass (i.e., [grip strength in kg)/(body mass in kg]). Tertiles of normalized HGS were obtained separately for both sexes and high HGS was defined as higher tertile (T3). Waist-to-height ratio, body mass index, and skinfold thickness were measured as adiposity parameters. Results: the mean (SD) age of participants was 13.2 (1.4) years. Significant inverse correlations were found between normalized HGS, waist-to-height ratio, body mass index, and skinfold thickness (range, r = -0.40 to -0.61; p < 0.001). Regardless of sex, participants with low HGS (below the first tertile) had the highest values of waist-to-height ratio, body mass index, and skinfold thickness after adjusting for age. Conclusion: muscular strength was inversely associated with a higher adiposity phenotype. HGS could have protective potential for increased levels of adiposity excess. The evaluation of muscular fitness at an early age will allow the implementation of future cardiovascular and metabolic risk prevention programs.

Introducción: Objetivo: la condición física ­especialmente la fuerza muscular­ es uno de los predictores más relevantes del estado de salud de un individuo. No obstante, son poco los estudios que han descrito la relación del fenotipo de exceso de adiposidad con el componente muscular en escolares latinos. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la asociación entre los niveles de fuerza de prensión (FP) manual con diferentes marcadores de adiposidad. Nuestra hipótesis de trabajo fue demostrar si los menores valores de FP se asocian con un fenotipo de exceso de adiposidad en una muestra de niños y adolescentes escolarizados. Métodos y procedimientos de investigación: estudio transversal realizado en 430 escolares (55,8 % mujeres) entre los 9 y 17,9 años, pertenecientes a 6 instituciones educativas oficiales de Bogotá, Colombia. Se midió la FP por dinamometría manual como indicador de fuerza muscular y se categorizó en tertiles (T) de fuerza, siendo el tertil (T3) la posición con mejor desempeño muscular. La relación cintura/estatura, el índice de masa corporal y los pliegues cutáneos se midieron como parámetros de adiposidad. Resultados: la edad media de los evaluados fue 13,2 ± 1,4 años. Se observaron correlaciones inversas y estadísticamente significativas entre la FP ajustada al peso y los parámetros antropométricos incluidos en este estudio (rango: r = -0,40 a -0,61; p < 0,001). Esta misma relación se observó tras ajustar la edad como covariable en los escolares con mejor desempeño muscular (T3), independientemente del sexo. Conclusión: basados en los resultados obtenidos en el presente trabajo, los escolares con altos niveles de FP (T3) presentaron menores niveles de adiposidad. Esto permite que los escolares con mejores valores de FP puedan contrarrestar los efectos negativos del exceso de adiposidad. La evaluación de la fuerza muscular en edades tempranas permitirá implementar programas de prevención de riesgo cardiovascular y metabólico en el futuro.

Reasonable Efforts? Child Maltreatment Investigations and Service Referrals of Parents With Ascribed Cognitive Impairments in Canada.

Parents with ascribed cognitive impairment (CI) are more likely than parents without CI to have their children removed by child protective services (CPS). Inequitable access to parenting and family supports and services is thought to be a contributing factor. Utilizing data on a 3-month sample of 15,980 child maltreatment investigations across Canada, including 1,244 cases featuring parents with CI, this study investigated service referrals and non-referrals. The results of this secondary data analysis suggest that, relative to need, parents with CI are less likely to be referred for matched services, including home based\reunification services post child removal. It is unclear whether disparate rates of referral are driven by a lack of inclusive services, and/or the conflation of parental CI with perceived parenting deficits. When perceived parenting deficits are attributed to parental CI, CPS may wrongly assume that these are irremediable. The findings highlight the need for building inter-sectoral service pathways in order to render appropriate assistance to parents with CI in the performance of their childrearing responsibilities.

Protein quality and glycemic indexes of mango drinks fortified with a soybean/maize protein isolate with three levels of urease activity fed to weanling rats.

Introduction: Public health professionals established a direct link between obesity and the rise in high caloric beverage intake. Current recommendations promote the elimination of sweet fruit drinks from the population's diet. One way of evading this is by modifying the drink's nutritional characteristics regarding nutrient uptake and utilization. Objectives: evaluate the protein quality of a soy/maize protein (SMP) and its physiological effects on nutrient intake and to assess glycemic indexes (GIs) of mango based drinks prepared with sucrose or stevia. Materials and methods: Mango drinks were supplemented with different sources of protein (three SMP thermally treated to contain different urease activities (UA) or whey protein concentrate (WPC)) that were sweetened with sucrose or stevia/sucralose. The protein digestibility, net protein absorption (NPA), biological value (BV), net protein utilization (NPU) value and protein efficiency ratio (PER) were assessed with weanling rats. Moreover, the GIs of the mango drinks were measured in the same animal model. Results: PER and NPA evaluated in a rat model showed that increased levels of UA decreased Biological (BV) and Net Protein Utilization (NPU) values. The GIs of the mango drinks significantly diminished with the addition of 3.5% of SMP, but unexpectedly the substitution of sucrose by stevia/sucralose did not significantly change the glycemic response. Conclusion: the SMP isolate can be used to improve the nutritional profile and lower GIs of mango drinks.

The Crisis Facing Older People Living with Neurodiversity and Their Aging Family Carers: A Social Work Perspective.

This commentary addresses barriers to care among older adults living with neurodiversity (ND), and their aging family carers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Factors contributing to inequities are described and the significant negative consequences of current policy decisions on the social and mental health of older adults with ND and their aging family carers are highlighted. The commentary calls for a collective social work response that highlights the critical role of support and advocacy necessary to redress social exclusion.

Child Maltreatment Investigations in Canada: Main and Moderating Effects of Primary Caregiver Cognitive Impairment.

Children of parents with cognitive impairment are overrepresented in the child protection system (CPS). The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between primary caregiver cognitive impairment (CCI) and CPS investigation outcomes using the Canadian Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect (CIS-2008). The CIS-2008 includes process and outcomes data on a national sample of CPS investigations involving a total of 15,980 children under the age of 16 years. This secondary data analysis found that primary CCI was noted in 6.3% of all investigations. When primary CCI was noted, investigations were 3-4 times more likely to result in child removal and court action. The results further suggest that some case characteristics, including case history variables, are weighted differently in decision making depending on whether or not primary CCI is indicated. A systematic, national strategy is needed to build capacity in government and community sectors for the provision of research-informed child and youth protection and family support services for these parents and their children.

Tratamiento con radioterapia quimioterapia neoadyuvante vs adyuvante en adenocarcinomade recto: experiencia de 15 años / Treatment with neoadjuvant chemotherapy vs adjuvant in rectum adenocarcinoma: 15 years' experience

Experiencia 15 años tratamiento neoadyuvante vs., adyuvante ADC recto. MÉTODO: 223 pacientes ADC recto tratamiento RT QT período 2000-2015, divididos 3 grupos: 1. Tratamiento adyuvante (110), 2. ratamiento neoadyuvante (93), 3. Tratamiento neoadyuvante no operados (20). RT administrada técnica conformada 3D todos los pacientes excepto 3 RT intensidad modulada, dosis 4 500-4 600 cGy fracciones diarias 180-200 cGy, a pelvis técnica 4 campos, reducción sitio lesión macroscópica (RT neoadyuvante) o áreade nastomosis (RT adyuvante) 5 000-5 040 cGy. Esquemas QT más utilizados 5FU, 5FU-leucovorina, capecitabina sola o combinación oxaliplatino. RESULTADOS: Mayoría estadio III, mayor IIIB grupo neoadyuvante, 44 % vs. 30 % grupo adyuvante. Sobrevida global 5 años grupo RT-QT adyuvante 69,03 % vs. 81,24 % grupo RT-QT neoadyuvante, resultado no estadísticamente significativo (P=0,37) sobrevida libre enfermedad 5 años 80 % grupo RT-QT neoadyuvante vs. 56 % pacientes grupo RT-QT adyuvante, diferencia estadísticamente significativa (P=0,000392). 20 tratamiento neoadyuvante no cirugía, sobrevida global 5 años 50 %, resultados inferiores a tratamiento adyuvante y neoadyuvante. 59,2 % grupo neoadyuvante 86,4 % adyuvante se pudo preservar el esfínter. Toxicidad aguda más frecuente gastrointestinal, grado II-III, mayor grupo adyuvante (57 % vs. 45 %). Complicaciones crónicas GI, grado III, 2 pacientes grupo adyuvante 1 grupo neoadyuvante, grado IV. 2 grupo adyuvante 1 neoadyuvante. CONCLUSIONES: En 223 pacientes ADC recto, no se encontraron diferencias significativas SG tratamiento adyuvante vs., neoadyuvante pero SLE fue superior grupo tratamiento neoadyuvante. Toxicidad parece menor con tratamiento preoperatorio(AU)

OBJECTIVE: 15 years' experience treatment ADC rectal with adjuvant RT-CT vs., neoadjuvant RT-CT. METHOD: 223 patients rectal ADC treated with RT-CT surgery, during 2000-2015. Divided 3 groups: 1. Adjuvant therapy (110). 2. Neoadjuvant therapy (93) 3. Neoadjuvant therapy without surgery (20). Three D conformal RT used all patients except 3 treated with intensity modulated RT, doses 4 500-4 600 with 180-200 cGy daily fractions pelvis 4 field technique, 5 000- 5 040 cGy boost rectal tumor or the anastomosis. Chemotherapy more frequently was 5FU, 5FU-leucovorin, capecitabine alone or oxaliplatin. RESULTS: Majority stage III, IIIB was more frequent neoadjuvant group, 44 % vs., 30 % adjuvant group. 5 years overall survival was 69.03 % adjuvant RT-CT vs. 81.24 % with neoadjuvant RT-QT (P=0.37 disease free survival was higher neoadjuvant therapy, 80 % vs. 56 %, (P=0.000392). 20 treated neoadjuvant RT-CT no surgery, had 50 % OS 5 years, lower than adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy. Grade II-III acute gastrointestinal toxicity was more common in patients with adjuvant therapy, 57 % vs. 45 % neoadjuvant therapy. One patient in each group grade IV, acute GI toxicity. Chronic grade III GI toxicity occurred, 2 with adjuvant therapy one neoadjuvant therapy, grade IV also 1 patient with preoperative RT-CT in 2 postoperative RT-CT. CONCLUSIONS: 223 rectal ADC, did not show significant difference in OS between adjuvant RT-CT and neoadjuvant RT-CT but DFS was higher with preoperative therapy. Toxicity seems lower in group treated with neoadjuvant therapy(AU)

Reduced higher dimensional temporal dynamism in neurofibromatosis type 1.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common single gene disorder resulting in multi-organ involvement. In addition to physical manifestations such as characteristic pigmentary changes, nerve sheath tumors, and skeletal abnormalities, NF1 is also associated with increased rates of learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. While there are established NF1-related structural brain anomalies, including brain overgrowth and white matter disruptions, little is known regarding patterns of functional connectivity in NF1. Here, we sought to investigate functional network connectivity (FNC) in a well-characterized sample of NF1 participants (n = 30) vs. age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n = 30). We conducted a comprehensive investigation of both static as well as dynamic FNC and meta-state analysis, a novel approach to examine higher-dimensional temporal dynamism of whole-brain connectivity. We found that static FNC of the cognitive control domain is altered in NF1 participants. Specifically, connectivity between anterior cognitive control areas and the cerebellum is decreased, whereas connectivity within the cognitive control domain is increased in NF1 participants relative to healthy controls. These alterations are independent of IQ. Dynamic FNC analysis revealed that NF1 participants spent more time in a state characterized by whole-brain hypoconnectivity relative to healthy controls. However, connectivity strength of dynamic states did not differ between NF1 participants and healthy controls. NF1 participants exhibited also reduced higher-dimensional dynamism of whole-brain connectivity, suggesting that temporal fluctuations of FNC are reduced. Given that similar findings have been observed in individuals with schizophrenia, higher occurrence of hypoconnected dynamic states and reduced temporal dynamism may be more general indicators of global brain dysfunction and not specific to either disorder.

Effectiveness of low-frequency electrical stimulation in proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques in healthy males: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Hamstring muscle injuries are common in the sports field, with lack of hamstring flexibility being a risk factor. Stretching the hamstring muscles is an important part of the training and rehabilitation programs used to prevent or treat injury and improve performance. We aim to compare the immediate and follow-up effect on hamstring muscle flexibility between 2 different stretching protocols, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching and PNF stretching combined with electrostimulation. A second aim is to determine whether physical activity level is related to flexibility. METHODS: Design of study: Single-blind, randomized controlled trial; Participants: 30 healthy volunteers (30 men, 18-39 years old); Intervention: A 6-session intervention program spanning over 2 weeks and 1-week and 3-week follow-up. The control group underwent PNF stretching with a voluntary contraction. The experimental group underwent PNF stretching but the muscle contraction was triggered with an electrical stimulation device (TENS); Main outcome measu: Hamstring muscles flexibility was assessed using the Modified Sit and Reach (MSR) and the Back Saver Sit and Reach (BSSR) tests. Physical activity level was evaluated with the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). RESULTS: Both groups showed an overall increase in hamstring muscle flexibility. However, when comparing flexibility gain between baseline and the end of the stretching program (session 6), and at the 1-week and 3-week follow-ups, only the experimental group showed significant differences. No correlation between the IPAQ score and the degree of hamstring muscle flexibility was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Hamstring muscle PNF stretching combined with electrical stimulation to trigger muscle contraction during the muscle contraction phase of the stretch achieves better flexibility results when compared to PNF alone.

Risky Decision Making in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: An Exploratory Study.

BACKGROUND: Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a monogenic disorder affecting cognitive function. About one third of children with NF1 have attentional disorders, and the cognitive phenotype is characterized by impairment in prefrontally-mediated functions. Mouse models of NF1 show irregularities in GABA release and striatal dopamine metabolism. We hypothesized that youth with NF1 would show abnormal behavior and neural activity on a task of risk-taking reliant on prefrontal-striatal circuits. METHODS: Youth with NF1 (N=29) and demographically comparable healthy controls (N=22), ages 8-19, were administered a developmentally sensitive gambling task, in which they chose between low-risk gambles with a high probability of obtaining a small reward, and high-risk gambles with a low probability of obtaining a large reward. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate neural activity associated with risky decision making, as well as age-associated changes in these behavioral and neural processes. RESULTS: Behaviorally, youth with NF1 tended to make fewer risky decisions than controls. Neuroimaging analyses revealed significantly reduced neural activity across multiple brain regions involved in higher-order semantic processing and motivation (i.e., anterior cingulate, paracingulate, supramarginal, and angular gyri) in patients with NF1 relative to controls during the task. We also observed atypical age-associated changes in neural activity in patients with NF1, such that during risk taking, neural activity tended to decrease with age in controls, whereas it tended to increase with age in patients with NF1. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that developmental trajectories of neural activity during risky decision-making may be disrupted in youth with NF1.

Love and resistance of mothers with intellectual disability from ethnocultural communities in Canada.

BACKGROUND: Mothers with intellectual disability are thought to be passive, dependent and in need of protection. This study contributes to a nascent body of research that challenges this schema, revealing how women with intellectual disability who are mothers resist oppression. METHODS: Narrative research methods underpinned by intersectionality theory were used to explore the lives of eight mothers with intellectual disability from various ethnocultural communities in Canada. A total of 33 in-depth interviews were conducted with these eight women over a period of 2 years. RESULTS: The lives of the women who took part in this study were marked by violence. The women resisted. Their resistance strategies addressed two kinds of relationships: their relationships with others and their relationship with themselves. CONCLUSION: The women in this study employed strategies of resistance, sometimes at great personal cost, to provide their children with a better life.

Cotidiano de familiares/cuidadores de idosos com alzheimer: contribuições do grupo de apoio / Daily family members/caregiver with alzheimer: support group contributions

Objetivo: compreender a influência da Doença de Alzheimer no cotidiano dos familiares/cuidadores depessoas idosas e a contribuição do grupo Assistência Multidisciplinar Integrada aos Cuidadores de Pessoas coma Doença de Alzheimer. Método: estudo exploratório-descritivo, de abordagem qualitativa, realizado com seisfamiliares/cuidadores, participantes de um projeto de extensão, desenvolvido em uma instituição de ensinosuperior no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Os dados foram coletados pela técnica de grupo focal, submetidos àTécnica de Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: determinaram-se quatro categorias >; >; >; >.Conclusão: a Doença de Alzheimer é geradora de múltiplos sentimentos, sendo necessário buscar suporte eacolhimento nos grupos de apoio.

In vivo protein quality of selected cereal-based staple foods enriched with soybean proteins.

BACKGROUND: One way to diminish protein malnutrition in children is by enriching cereal-based flours for the manufacturing of maize tortillas, wheat flour tortillas, and yeast-leavened breads, which are widely consumed among low socio-economic groups. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to determine and compare the essential amino acid (EAA) scores, protein digestibility corrected amino acid scores (PDCAAS), and in vivo protein quality (protein digestibility, protein efficiency ratio (PER), biological values (BV), and net protein utilization (NPU) values) of regular versus soybean-fortified maize tortillas, yeast-leavened bread, and wheat flour tortillas. DESIGN: To comparatively assess differences in protein quality among maize tortillas, wheat flour tortillas, and yeast-leavened breads, EAA compositions and in vivo studies with weanling rats were performed. The experimental diets based on regular or soybean-fortified food products were compared with a casein-based diet. Food intake, weight gains, PER, dry matter and protein digestibility, BV, NPU, and PDCAAS were assessed. The soybean-fortified tortillas contained 6% of defatted soybean flour, whereas the yeast-leavened bread flour contained 4.5% of soybean concentrate. RESULTS: The soybean-fortified tortillas and bread contained higher amounts of lysine and tryptophan, which improved their EAA scores and PDCAAS. Rats fed diets based on soybean-fortified maize or wheat tortillas gained considerably more weight and had better BV and NPU values compared with counterparts fed with respective regular products. As a result, fortified maize tortillas and wheat flour tortillas improved PER from 0.73 to 1.64 and 0.69 to 1.77, respectively. The PER improvement was not as evident in rats fed the enriched yeast-leavened bread because the formulation contained sugar that decreased lysine availability possibly to Maillard reactions. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed enrichment of cereal-based foods with soybean proteins greatly improved PDCAAS, animal growth, nitrogen retention, and PER primarily in both maize and wheat flour tortillas. Therefore, these foods can help to diminish protein malnutrition among children who greatly depend on cereals as the main protein dietary source.

Efeito do plasma de oxigênio na dentina previamente exposta ao NaOCl / Effect of oxygen plasma on dentin exposed to NaOCl

Introdução: O tratamento de plasma é uma tecnologia eficaz que pode manter as propriedades internas dos materiais inalteradas após o tratamento, modificando apenas a superfície. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito do plasma de oxigênio na dentina previamente exposta ao NaOCl 6%. Material e método: Foram utilizados 60 incisivos bovinos. A coroa foi removida, a raiz foi dividida e as faces planificadas, totalizando 120 segmentos referentes ao terço cervical. As amostras foram divididas em dois grupos: controle (imersa em NaOCl 6%, lavada com água destilada, seca, imersa em EDTA 17%, lavada e seca) e plasma de oxigênio (após tratamento descrito no grupo controle, plasma de oxigênio foi aplicado por 30 s). As amostras foram avaliadas qualitativamente em relação à topografia por microscopia eletrônica de varredura, utilizando-se microfotografias com ampliação de 1.000×. O goniômetro Ramé-hart foi utilizado para a mensuração do ângulo de contato entre as superfícies e as seguintes soluções foram utilizadas: água, etilenoglicol e di-iodometano. Em seguida, a energia de superfície, representada pelas componentes polar e dispersiva, foi calculada. Avaliou-se também o escoamento dos cimentos Pulp Canal Sealer EWT (PCS) e Real Sal SE (RS) na superfície dentinária. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente utilizando os testes Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney U (p<0,05). Resultado: O tratamento com plasma levou à formação de uma camada semelhante à smear layer na superfície dentinária. Este tratamento levou a um aumento da energia de superfície e da componente polar, favorecendo a hidrofilicidade da superfície. Entretanto, desfavoreceu o escoamento do cimento PCS e não influenciou no escoamento do cimento RS. Conclusão: O plasma de oxigênio ocasionou mudanças topográficas na superfície dentinária, favorecendo a hidrofilicidade desta. Contudo, não favoreceu o escoamento dos cimentos endodônticos na dentina.

Introduction: Plasma treatment is an effective technology since the internal properties of the material is kept unchanged after treatment, modifying only the surface. Objective: To evaluate the effect of oxygen plasma on dentin previously exposed to 6% NaOCl. Material and method: 60 bovine incisors were used. The crown was removed, the root splited and the faces planned amounting 120 segments related to the cervical third. The samples were divided into 2 groups, control (immersed in 6% NaOCl, washed with distilled water, dried, immersed in 17% EDTA, washed and dried) and oxygen plasma (after treatment described in the control group, oxygen plasma was applied for 30s). The samples were evaluated qualitatively in relation to topography by scanning electron microscopy using photomicrographs at 1000× of magnification. The Ramé-hart goniometer was used to measure the contact angle between the surfaces and the following solutions: water, ethyleneglycol, and diiodomethane. Then, surface energy, polar and dispersive components, was calculated. Additionally, it was evaluated the flow of Pulp Canal Sealer EWT (PCS) and Real Salt SE (RS) sealers on dentin surface. Data were statistically analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney U (p<0.05). Result: Plasma treatment caused topographical changes on dentin surface. This treatment led to an increase in surface energy and polar component, favoring the hydrophilicity of the surface. However, it disfavors the wettability of PCS and did not influence the RS wettability. Conclusion: The oxygen plasma caused topographical changes on dentin surface, favoring its hydrophilicity. However, it did not favor the sealers wettability on dentin.

A randomized placebo-controlled lovastatin trial for neurobehavioral function in neurofibromatosis I.

OBJECTIVE: Lovastatin has been shown to reverse learning deficits in a mouse model of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), a common monogenic disorder caused by a mutation in the Ras-MAPK pathway and associated with learning disabilities. We conducted a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial to assess lovastatin's effects on cognition and behavior in patients with NF1. METHOD: Forty-four NF1 patients (mean age 25.7+/-11.6 years; 64% female) were randomly assigned to 14 weeks of lovastatin (N = 23; maximum dose of 80 mg/day for adult participants and 40 mg/day for children) or placebo (N = 21). Based on findings in the mouse model, primary outcome measures were nonverbal learning and working memory. Secondary outcome measures included verbal memory, attention, and self/parent-reported behavioral problems, as well as tolerability of medication. Participants also underwent neuroimaging assessments at baseline and 14 weeks, to determine whether neural biomarkers were associated with treatment response. Linear mixed models assessed for differential treatment effects on outcome measures. RESULTS: Twelve participants dropped from the study prior to completion (8 placebo, 4 lovastatin), resulting in 32 completers (15 placebo, 17 lovastatin). Lovastatin was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events. Differential improvement favoring lovastatin treatment was observed for one primary (working memory; effect size f (2) = 0.70, P < 0.01) and two secondary outcome measures (verbal memory, f (2) = 0.19, P = 0.02, and adult self-reported internalizing problems, f (2) = 0.26, P = 0.03). Exploratory moderator analyses revealed that higher baseline neural activity in frontal regions was associated with larger treatment effects. INTERPRETATION: These preliminary results suggest beneficial effects of lovastatin on some learning and memory functions, as well as internalizing symptoms in patients with NF1.

Effect of Argon Plasma on Root Dentin after Use of 6% NaOCl.

UNLABELLED: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of argon plasma on dentin surface after use of 6% NaOCl. Sixty bovine incisors had their crowns removed, the roots split, and the segments planed. One hundred twenty segments of the cervical third were used. The samples were divided in two groups (n=60): CONTROL GROUP: immersed in 6% NaOCl, washed, dried and then immersed in 17% EDTA, washed and dried and Argon group: after treatment described for the CONTROL GROUP, non-thermal argon plasma was applied for 30 s. Ten samples were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy in each group. Other ten samples were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Thirty samples were analyzed with a goniometer to measure the contact angle between the dentin surfaces and solutions, to determine the surface free energy. The last ten samples were used to evaluate the wettability of AH Plus sealer. Data were statistically analyzed using Kruskal Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests (p<0.05). The results of this study showed that argon plasma did not modify the surface topography. FTIR analysis showed chemical modifications after plasma treatment. Argon plasma increased the surface free energy of dentin and AH Plus wettability. In conclusion, argon plasma treatment modified chemically the dentin surface. This treatment increased the surface free energy and wettability of an epoxy resin root canal sealer, favoring its bonding to dentin surfaces.

Effect of Argon Plasma on Root Dentin after Use of 6% NaOCl

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of argon plasma on dentin surface after use of 6% NaOCl. Sixty bovine incisors had their crowns removed, the roots split, and the segments planed. One hundred twenty segments of the cervical third were used. The samples were divided in two groups (n=60): Control group: immersed in 6% NaOCl, washed, dried and then immersed in 17% EDTA, washed and dried and Argon group: after treatment described for the Control group, non-thermal argon plasma was applied for 30 s. Ten samples were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy in each group. Other ten samples were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Thirty samples were analyzed with a goniometer to measure the contact angle between the dentin surfaces and solutions, to determine the surface free energy. The last ten samples were used to evaluate the wettability of AH Plus sealer. Data were statistically analyzed using Kruskal Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests (p<0.05). The results of this study showed that argon plasma did not modify the surface topography. FTIR analysis showed chemical modifications after plasma treatment. Argon plasma increased the surface free energy of dentin and AH Plus wettability. In conclusion, argon plasma treatment modified chemically the dentin surface. This treatment increased the surface free energy and wettability of an epoxy resin root canal sealer, favoring its bonding to dentin surfaces.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito do plasma de argônio na superfície dentinária após o uso de NaOCl 6%. As coroas de 60 incisivos bovinos foram removidas, as raízes clivadas e os segmentos planificados. Cento e vinte segmentos referentes ao terço cervical foram utilizados. As amostras foram divididas em dois grupos (n=60): Grupo Controle: imersos em NaOCl 6%, lavados, secos, imersos em EDTA 17%, lavados e secos e Grupo Argônio: após o tratamento descrito no grupo controle, foi aplicado plasma de argônio não térmico por 30 s. Em cada grupo, 10 amostras foram avaliadas por microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Outras dez amostras foram analisadas por espectroscopia no infravermelho por transformada de Fourier (FTIR). Trinta amostras foram analisadas com um goniômetro para medir o ângulo de contato entre a superfície dentinária e as soluções e determinar a energia livre de superfície. As últimas dez amostras foram utilizadas para avaliar a molhabilidade do cimento AH Plus. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente usando os testes de Kruskal Wallis e Mann-Whitney (p<0,05). Os resultados do estudo mostraram que o plasma de argônio não modificou a topografia de superfície. A análise por FTIR mostrou modificações químicas após o tratamento de plasma. O plasma de argônio aumentou a energia livre da superfície dentinária e a molhabilidade do cimento AH Plus. Conclusão, o tratamento com plasma de argônio modificou quimicamente a superfície dentinária. Este tratamento aumentou a energia livre de superfície e a molhabilidade de um cimento endodôntico à base de resina epóxi, favorecendo as características adesivas da superfície dentinária.