Degree of swallowing impairment in the elderly: clinical and instrumental assessment.

OBJECTIVE: To classifying the degree of swallowing impairment in the elderly, comparing clinical and instrumental assessment. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with quantitative and qualitative analysis of clinical and instrumental assessment of 37 elderly, aged 60-82 years, of both genders without neurological, oncological or systemic diseases, participated in this study. All participants were submitted to clinical evaluation and their results compared through fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing considering liquid, pudding and solid food consistencies. Data were analyzed descriptively and statistically using the analysis of variance test (two-way ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test (p <  0.05). RESULTS: In the clinical evaluation there was a higher occurrence of moderate swallowing impairment, followed by functional swallowing, while in fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing the severity of the impairment was greater for moderate and mild degrees. There was no statistical difference between the clinical and instrumental evaluation methods. However, there was a significant interaction between the variables, with a difference for liquid consistency in the instrumental evaluation method. CONCLUSION: Healthy elderly have different degree of swallowing impairment according to food consistency. The clinical assessment using a scale that considers the physiological changes of the elderly, presented results similar to those found in the instrumental examination.

Comparative study of oncology patients' quality of life.

BACKGROUND: A cancer diagnosis has a significant impact on a person's life, both physically and emotionally. However, the oncology patients' QoL (QoL) at different stages of the disease has been under investigated. AIM: To assess and compare the QoL in three groups of oncology patients. METHODS: A comparative study was carried out in an outpatient care service at a public hospital in the state of São Paulo. Data collection involved the use of the Palliative Performance Scale and the McGill QoL Questionnaire. RESULTS: Most participants were women, Catholic and living with a partner. The Palliative Performance Scale revealed a predominance of stable patients (score: ≥70 points). Overall, palliative care patients had lower QoL scores compared to the other groups (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: QoL was worse among palliative care patients. Advanced age, being in palliative care, and have a low-income were negatively associated with a patient's QoL.

Analysis of color stability and degree of conversion of different types of resin composites

Abstract Resin composites containing surface pre-reacted glass (S-PRG) have been introduced to reduce demineralization and improve remineralization of the tooth structure. However, water diffusion within the material is necessary for its action, which can impair its overall physicomechanical properties over time, including color stability. This study aimed to evaluate the color stability and related degree of conversion (DC) of four resin composites. Discs (6 x 4 mm, n = 5/group) of microhybrid (MH), nanofilled (NF), nanohybrid (NH), and S-PRG-based nanohybrid (S-PRG-NH) composites with two opacities (A2/A2E and A2O/A2D) were prepared. Color (CIELab and CIEDE2000) was evaluated with a spectrophotometer after aging in grape juice (2 x 10 min/10mL/7days). The DC was analyzed by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy before and after light-curing. Data were statistically analyzed by using two-way analysis of variance and post-hoc least significant difference tests (p<0.05). In the color stability analysis, the interaction between filler type and opacity was significant (CIELab, p = 0.0015; CIEDE2000, p = 0.0026). NH presented the highest color stability, which did not differ from that of MH. The greatest color alteration was observed for S-PRG-NH. S-PRG fillers also influenced DC (p < 0.05). The nanohybrid resin composite presented favorable overall performance, which is likely related to its more stable organic content. Notwithstanding the benefits of using S-PRG-based nanohybrid resins, mostly in aesthetic procedures, professionals should consider the susceptibility of such resins to color alteration, probably due to the water-based bioactive mechanism of action.

PREVENTIVE EFFECT OF CRANBERRY GEL ON DENTIN SUBMITTED TO EROSION

Aims: Considering that Cranberry's components might inhibit dentin metalloproteinases exposed to erosive agents, the aim of this study was to evaluate in situeffect of a Cranberry gel application on dentin before an erosive challenge.Materials and methods: This crossover double-blinded study was performed in 2 phases of 5 days each, with 10 healthy volunteers who wore 2 palatal devices (1 for each phase) with 4 dentin specimens (2 specimens for each group). The groups under study were:First Phase: G1 -Erosivechallenge (Coca-cola®) over dentin without any previous treatment (1st negative control group); G2 -Erosive challenge over dentin previously treated with Cranberry gel (test group); and Second Phase: G3 -Erosive challenge over dentin previously treated with a gel without any active principle (2ndnegative control group); G4 -Erosive challenge over dentin previously treated with 0.12% Chlorhexidine gel (positive control group). Each device was immersed into the acid beverage, 3 times daily for 5 minutes during 5 days. Profilometry (µm) was used to quantify the dentin wear. Data were analyzed by Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance followed by Fisher's test (p<0.05).Results: Data (G1: 4.98 ± 1.36a; G2: 3.29 ± 1.16b; G3: 4.38 ± 1.19a; G4: 3.32 ± 1.55b) showed no statistical difference between G1 and G3. There was also no difference between G2 and G4. However, G2 and G4 presented lower wear when compared to G1 and G3, and this difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: The results of this studysuggest a significant efficacy of Cranberry gel in preventing wear of dentin subjected to dental erosion.

Acquired pellicle engineering with the association of cystatin and vitamin E against enamel erosion.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate CaneCPI-5 associated with Vitamin E in acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) engineering to prevent dental erosion. METHODS: 180 human enamel specimens were divided into 12 groups and treated with the following solutions: Cane+VitT and Cane+VitS- CaneCPI-5 + Vit E; Vit+CaneT and Vit+CaneS- Vit E + CaneCPI-5; VitT and VitS- Vit E; CaneT and CaneS- CaneCPI-5; ControlT and ControlS - AmF/NaF/SnCl2; WaterT and WaterS- Deionized water. Groups' name followed by "T" were first treated (200 µl; 2 min) and then incubated in human saliva (200 µl; 1 h) to form the AEP. For groups followed by "S", the AEP was formed and then treatment was applied. The erosive challenge consisted of immersion in 1% citric acid (1 min, 1x/day, for 3 days). The percentage of superficial hardness loss (%SHL) and the relative surface reflection intensity (%SRI) were subjected to normality and homogeneity tests, Shapiro-Wilk and Levene tests, respectively. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, Tukey's test and Pearson's correlation (p < 0.005). RESULTS: For%SHL and%SRI, water controls showed significantly lower protective capacity. Cane+VitT, Cane+VitS, and Vit+CaneS presented the lowest%SHL, and VitT and VitS did not differ from Vit+CaneT, but they were different from the other groups (p = 0.002). The greatest%SRI was found for the Cane+VitT, Vit+CaneT, VitT, Cane+VitS, Vit+CaneS, and VitS groups, which did not significantly differ. CaneT and ControlT, showed similar reflections compared to CaneS and ControlS. CONCLUSION: CaneCPI-5 and Vitamin E demonstrated a synergistic protective effect against initial erosion. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The results open up new possibilities for preventive approaches against erosion through the acquired pellicle engineering, with the combination of CaneCPI-5 and Vitamin E, which demonstrated to be more effective than commercial stannous mouthwash. Further research is warranted to explore the potential of this combination in diverse clinical settings.

Clinicopathological Analysis of Actinic Cheilitis: A Systematic Review with Meta-analyses.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review aimed to conduct a complete investigation of the demographic aspects, clinicopathological features, degrees of epithelial dysplasia, and malignant transformation rate of actinic cheilitis. METHODS: The study was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42020201254). A search without year and language restrictions was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Virtual Health Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and gray literature. Studies that provided information on patients with actinic cheilitis were included, excluding those with general information on other diseases or other types of cheilitis. Risk of bias was explored using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Narrative and quantitative data syntheses were performed using meta-analyses and subgroup analyses. Association tests were also performed. RESULTS: Thirteen studies (728 patients) were included. The most prevalent clinical signs were dryness (99%), blurred demarcation between the lip vermilion and skin (82%), scaling (69%), and atrophy (69%). Regarding epithelial dysplasia, a prevalence of mild dysplasia (34.2%), followed by moderate (27.5%), and severe (14.9%). The malignant transformation rate was 14%. Crusts, ulcerations, and erythematous areas were associated with lip carcinoma (p < 0.001), and scaling was associated with actinic cheilitis (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed several features of actinic cheilitis, providing an overview of the disease. It is suggested that new studies help develop policy guides for the standardization of clinical criteria, enabling more rigorous and homogeneous analysis of actinic cheilitis.

Gels containing statherin-derived peptide protect against enamel and dentin erosive tooth wear in vitro.

The effect of gels containing a statherin-derived peptide (Stn) on the protection against enamel and dentin erosive tooth wear (ETW) in vitro was evaluated. Bovine enamel and dentin specimens were divided into 2 groups (n = 15 and 18/group for enamel and dentin, respectively) that were treated with Chitosan or Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) gels containing Stn15pSpS at 1.88 × 10-5 M or 3.76 × 10-5 M. Chitosan or CMC gels without active ingredients served as negative controls, while chitosan gel containing 1.23% F (as NaF) and acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (1.23% F) served as positive controls. The gels were applied on the specimens for 4 min. Stimulated saliva was collected from 3 donors and used to form a 2-h acquired pellicle on the specimens. Then, the specimens were submitted to an erosive pH cycling protocol 4 times/day for 7 days (0.01 M HCl pH 2.0/45 s, artificial saliva/2 h, and artificial saliva overnight). The gels were applied again during pH cycling, 2 times/day for 4 min after the first and last erosive challenges. Enamel and dentin loss (µm) were assessed by contact profilometry. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was analyzed using a cold field emission. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA (for chitosan and CMC gels, separately) and Tukey's multiple comparison test. SEM images showed changes to enamel topography after application oft the gels containing Stn or F. Regarding CMC-based gels, for enamel, none of the treatments significantly reduced ETW in comparison with placebo; for dentin, however, gels containing Stn, regardless the concentration, significantly reduced the ETW. Moreover, Chitosan-based gels, regardless the Stn concentration, were able to protect enamel and dentin against ETW. Gels containing Stn might be a new approach to protect against ETW.

Effect of 10% Proanthocyanidin gel on demineralized organic matrix degradation: ELISA method / Efeito do gel de Proantocianidina a 10% na degradação da matriz orgânica desmineralizada: método ELISA

Objective: This study evaluated Proanthocyanidin protective effect on dentin subjected to erosion and its inhibition on degradation of the demineralized organic matrix (DOM). Material and Methods: The tested groups were: G1 - 10% Proanthocyanidin gel (test group), G2 - 1.23% NaF (positive control 1), G3 - 0.012% Chlorhexidine (positive control 2) and G4 ­ Placebo (negative control with no active compound) and two methodologies were performed: contact profilometry and ICTP ELISA method. To quantify dentin wear, profilometry was performed. Data were submitted to Analysis of Variance followed by Fisher's LSD Test. To assess the collagen degradation, ICTP ELISA method was performed. Data were submitted to the Kruskal-Wallis followed by the Dunn ́s test. Simple linear regression and Pearson Correlation test were also performed (p<0.05). Results: The profilometry showed significantly lower wear of G1 when compared to other groups and G2, G3 and G4, which did not present significant difference among them. In the ICTP ELISA analysis, G1 and G4 did not show significant differences and the same happened between G2 and G3. However, G1 and G4 had lower values of collagen degradation compared to groups G2 and G3. Data showed that degraded DOM is a significant predictor to explain the values obtained through the ICTP ELISA. Conclusions: The results allow to verify that 10% proanthocyanidin provided less tooth wear and decreased degradation of the DOM, suggesting a good ability to prevent dentin erosion. The regression analysis also suggests that contact profilometry is a good strategy to quantify dentin wear (AU)

Objetivo: Este estudo avaliou o efeito protetor da proantocianidina na dentina submetida à erosão e sua inibição na degradação da matriz orgânica desmineralizada (MOD). Material e Métodos: Os grupos testados foram: G1 - gel de Proantocianidina 10% (grupo teste), G2 - NaF 1,23% (controle positivo 1), G3 - Clorexidina 0,012% (controle positivo 2) e G4 - Placebo (controle negativo sem princípio ativo) e duas metodologias foram realizadas: perfilometria de contato e método ICTP ELISA. Para quantificar o desgaste da dentina, a perfilometria foi realizada. Os dados foram submetidos à Análise de Variância seguida do Teste LSD de Fisher. Para avaliar a degradação do colágeno, foi realizado o método ICTP ELISA. Resultados: Os dados foram submetidos ao teste de Kruskal-Wallis seguido do teste de Dunn. Regressão linear simples e teste de correlação de Pearson também foram realizados (p<0,05). A perfilometria mostrou desgaste significativamente menor do G1 quando comparado aos outros grupos e G2, G3 e G4, que não apresentaram diferença significativa entre si. Na análise ICTP ELISA, G1 e G4 não apresentaram diferenças significativas e o mesmo ocorreu entre G2 e G3. No entanto, G1 e G4 apresentaram valores menores de degradação do colágeno em relação aos grupos G2 e G3. Os dados mostraram que a MOD degradada é um preditor significativo para explicar os valores obtidos pelo ICTP ELISA. Conclusão: Os resultados permitem verificar que a proantocianidina a 10% proporcionou menor desgaste dentário e diminuição da degradação da MOD, sugerindo uma boa capacidade de prevenir a erosão dentinária. Também sugere que a perfilometria de contato é uma boa estratégia para quantificar o desgaste da dentina (AU)

Is deoxycholic acid able to reduce submental fat and increase patient satisfaction when compared to placebo groups? A systematic review.

The accumulation of submental fat (SMF) can negatively impact facial harmony appearance, and one alternative treatment for this condition is the application of deoxycholic acid (DOC). The objective of this systematic review was to answer the following question: "Is DOC able to reduce SMF and increase patient satisfaction when compared to the placebo groups?". Therefore, a detailed search strategy was carried out in 6 scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Lilacs, SciELO, and Web of Science) as primary search sources, while OpenGrey and OpenThesis were also used to capture the "grey literature". Only six studies met all inclusion criteria and were considered in this review analysis. The selected sample included prospective clinical studies published from 2014 to 2018, covering a total sample of 3488 patients, with an average age ranging from 46 to 49.5 years old. All selected articles evaluated the effect of DOC at concentrations of 1 mg/cm² or 2 mg/cm², using saline or placebo as control solutions for the comparative analysis. The application interval was 28 days in all studies analyzed, and the treatment duration ranged from 4 to 6 weeks. In all studies evaluated, there was a reduction in SMF and patient satisfaction with the application of DOC was higher than in the control groups at the end of a 12-week period. Thus, it is possible to conclude that the application of DOC has a positive effect on reducing SMF and improving patient satisfaction concerning their facial appearance.

Occurrence of field cancerization in clinically normal oral mucosa: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose was to describe whether there are field cancerization (FC) indicators in clinically normal mucosa opposite to primary oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). METHODS: A search of the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Livivo databases was performed on June 12, 2022, which retrieved 152 records without duplicates. Studies that analyzed FC in biopsies in clinically normal tissue opposite to primary OSCC were included. The search was conducted under the PRISMA guideline and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017077125). RESULTS: Eight articles with 302 patients were included, 192 men and 110 women, mean age 57.1 years. Most patients had deleterious habits. All studies performed histopathological confirmation of OSCC and biopsies were obtained the clinically normal mirror mucosa. The meta-analysis carried out with eight studies. The studies showed 57.3 % of cases with histopathological changes of clinically normal mucosa opposite to primary OSCC (Confidence interval 95 %, 0.443-0.703; heterogeneity: Q value 18.715; I2 73.284 %; n = 205). p53 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical analysis may be predictive for detecting changes. There was p53 immunoexpression in 41.3 % of cases (p = 0.872) (n = 55), ki-67 immunoexpression (< 20 %) in 68 % (p = 0.001) (n = 97) and ki-67 immunoexpression (> 20 %) in 28.4 % of cases (p = 0.000) (n = 110). CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that FC can occur, and there are histopathological changes in clinically normal tissue opposite to primary OSCC. Nevertheless, the review showed that more longitudinal studies on FC are needed to draw a conclusive indication of the occurrence of FC in oral tissues opposite to OSCC.

Sodium trimetaphosphate combined to calcium as a strategy to improve dentin-bonding interface / Trimetafosfato de sódio associado ao cálcio como uma estratégia para melhorar a interface adesiva da dentina

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of STMP as biomimetic analog of dentin matrix on the dentin bond strength submitted to artificial cariogenic challenge over time. Material and Methods: The total number of teeth used in the experiment was 60 teeth, which were divided into 6 groups (n = 10). Of these total amount, 10 teeth were not submitted to the artificial cariogenic challenge (ACC), serving as control group (Sound Dentin - SD) while the other 50 were submitted to an ACC (7d/37ºC), being treated with treatment solutions according to each group: SD- deionized water/sound dentin, CD- deionized water/ artificial caries dentin, GIII- STMP, GIV- STMP + Ca(OH)2, GV- STMP + NaF, and GVI- NaF. After treatments (24h), the specimens were restored (Adper Single Bond Universal + Filtek Z250), to obtain resin­dentin sticks with a cross sectional area of 0.8mm2, approximately. Two-third of these sticks were stored in artificial saliva (37°C) for analyzes after 6 and 12 months. The 1/3 remains were subjected to µTBS test (baseline). Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests (p<0.05). Results: In general, the highest µTBS values were obtained in sound condition (SD), while the artificial caries condition (CD) determined minimum values. Groups treated with NaF (with or without STMP- GV and GVI) were not able to improve adhesion over time. Only the use of STMP + Ca(OH)2(GIV) improved the µTBS compared to the others caries-challenged dentin after 1 year. The adhesive failure pattern was predominant in all time. Conclusion: The use of the STMP associated with Ca(OH)2 seems to be a viable therapeutic strategy conciliating the biomimetizing capacity to the adhesive process satisfactorily even its performance is not superior to initial condition (AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do STMP como análogo biomimético da matriz dentinária na resistência de união à dentina submetida a desafio cariogênico artificial ao longo do tempo. Material e Métodos:foram utilizados um total de 60 dentes neste experimento, os quais foram divididos em 6 grupos (n = 10). Desse total, 10 dentes não foram submetidos ao desafio cariogênico artificial (DCA), servindo como grupo controle (Dentina Hígida - DH) enquanto os outros 50 foram submetidos ao DCA (7d / 37ºC), sendo tratados com soluções de tratamento específicas para cada grupo: DH- água deionizada / dentina hígida, DC- água deionizada / dentina submetida ao DCA, GIII- STMP, GIV- STMP + Ca(OH)2, GV- STMP + NaF e GVI- NaF. Após os tratamentos (24h), os corpos-de-prova foram restaurados (Adper Single Bond Universal + Filtek Z250), para obtenção de palitos de resina-dentina com área transversal de aproximadamente 0,8mm2. Dois terços desses palitos foram armazenados em saliva artificial (37°C) para análises após 6 e 12 meses. Os outros 1/3 foram submetidos ao teste µTBS (baseline). Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA a dois fatores e testes de Tukey (p <0,05). Resultados:Em geral, os maiores valores de µTBS foram obtidos em condição hígidas (DH), enquanto a condição subtmetidas ao DCA determinou os menores valores. Os grupos tratados com NaF (com ou sem STMP associado -GV e GVI) não foram capazes de melhorar a resistência de união, ao longo do tempo. Somente o uso de STMP + Ca (OH)2(GIV) melhorou o µTBS em comparação com as outras condições desafiadas por cárie após 1 ano. O padrão de falha adesiva foi predominante em todos os tempos. Conclusão: O uso do STMP associado ao Ca (OH)2 parece ser uma estratégia terapêutica viável conciliando a capacidade biomimetizante ao processo adesivo de forma satisfatória mesmo que seu desempenho não seja superior à condição inicial.(AU)

Solutions and Gels Containing a Sugarcane-Derived Cystatin (CaneCPI-5) Reduce Enamel and Dentin Erosion in vitro.

The effect of solutions and gels containing a sugarcane-derived cystatin (CaneCPI-5) on the protection against enamel and dentin erosion in vitro was evaluated. Bovine enamel and dentin specimens were divided into 2 groups (n = 135 and 153/group for enamel and dentin, respectively) that were treated with solutions or chitosan gels containing 0.1 or 0.25 mg/mL CaneCPI-5. The positive controls for solutions and gels were Elmex Erosion Protection™ solution and NaF gel (12,300 ppm F), respectively. Deionized water and chitosan gel served as controls, respectively. The solutions were first applied on the specimens for 1 min and the gels for 4 min. Stimulated saliva was collected from 3 donors and used to form a 2-h acquired pellicle on the specimens. Then, the specimens were submitted to an erosive pH cycling protocol 4 times/day for 7 days (0.1% citric acid pH 2.5/90 s, artificial saliva/2 h, and artificial saliva overnight). The solutions and gels were applied again during pH cycling, 2 times/day for 1 min and 4 min, respectively, after the first and last erosive challenges. Enamel and dentin losses (µm) were assessed by contact profilometry. Data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). All the treatments significantly reduced enamel and dentin loss in comparison with controls. Both CaneCPI-5 concentrations had a similar protective effect against enamel erosion, but only the higher concentration was as effective against dentin erosion as the positive control. Regarding the vehicles, only the 0.1 mg/mL gel performed worse than the positive control for dentin. CaneCPI-5 reduced enamel and dentin erosion to a similar extent as the fluoride-containing vehicles. However, dentin requires higher CaneCPI-5 concentrations, in the case of gels. Solutions or gels containing CaneCPI-5 might be a new approach to protect against dental erosion.

Presence of molar-incisor hypomineralization is associated with dental caries in Brazilian schoolchildren

Abstract This study aimed to identify the prevalence of molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) in schoolchildren and its association with dental caries experience. This was a cross-sectional study with a sample of 471 children aged 8 to 10 years. Data were collected via a sociodemographic questionnaire. Intra-oral clinical examination was done to identify and diagnose MIH (EAPD Criteria) as well as dental caries (ICDAS Index). Statistical analyses were performed with Person's Chi-square, Fisher's exact, and Mann-Whitney tests, and Poisson regression models were built. Statistical significance was set at an alpha-level of 0.05. The prevalence of MIH in our participants was 9.8%, with lesions being mostly of the mild form (65.2%) and affecting the first permanent molars but not the incisors in 54.2% of the children. Dental caries was observed in 88.1% of subjects. We observed a significant association between dental caries and the following variables: presence of MIH (p < 0.01; PR = 1.13), dental visit (p < 0.02; PR=0.92), and parents or legal guardians' education level (p < 0.05; PR = 1.07). A MIH diagnosis was also significantly associated with family income (p < 0.05; PR = 4.09). Children with MIH had more caries lesions on molar surfaces (p < 0.01; PR = 4.05). The prevalence of MIH was found to be moderate, based on previous studies, and the presence of enamel defect was associated with dental caries. The teeth most affected by MIH lesions were the first permanent molars.

CBCT does not reduce neurosensory disturbances after third molar removal compared to panoramic radiography: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The current dentistry scenario is showing an increase in the availability of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in dental offices. Oral surgeons are using three-dimensional information as an additional tool to assess preoperative data for lower third molar (LTM) removal in moderate and high-risk cases of inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury diagnosed through the panoramic radiography (PR). The aim of this study is to identify whether CBCT examination reduces neurosensoric disturbances (ND) following the removal of the LTM when compared to PR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus electronic databases were searched for studies published up to February 2019. The gray literature was also searched including papers that eventually met the eligibility criteria. Meta-analysis was performed using the comprehensive meta-analysis software, p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: Among the search, 6 studies met all eligibility criteria. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (PR and CBCT) in all six studies regarding reducing ND (95%. Confidence interval, 0,788-1734; heterogeneity: Q = 10,361; I2 = 22.788%). CONCLUSIONS: CBCT was not superior to PR in avoiding ND. However, further studies are necessary with standardized parameters for a better comparability between variables in the studies. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: To better understand the CBCT clinical applicability in LTM removal to avoid unnecessary extra radiation when compared to PR to the patient and to improve patient's prognosis.

In situ effect of a proanthocyanidin mouthrinse on dentin subjected to erosion

Abstract Proanthocyanidin has been shown to be efficient in inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases. Objective The aim of this in situ study was to evaluate the protective effect of Proanthocyanidin-based mouthrinses either with naturally acidic or with a neutral pH applied on dentin subjected to erosion. Methodology Eight volunteers wore one palatal device in two phases (7 days washout) with 16 samples per group (n=8). The groups under study were: First Phase/ G1 - 10% proanthocyanidin mouthrinse (pH 7.0, Experimental group 1 - Purified Grape Seeds Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins), G2 - 10% proanthocyanidin mouthrinse (pH 3.0, Experimental group 2 - Purified Grape Seeds Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins). Second Phase/ G3 - 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthrinse (pH 7.0, Positive control group), G4 - no previous treatment (Negative control group). Each device was subjected to 3 erosive cycles (5 minutes) per day for 5 days. Treatments with different mouthrinses were applied once after the second erosive challenge (5 minutes). Profilometry was used to quantify dentin loss (µm). Results Data were analyzed by repeated measures of ANOVA followed by Fisher's test (p<0.05). G1 (1.17±0.69) and G3 (1.22±0.25) showed significantly lower wear values with no statistical difference between them. G2 (2.99±1.15) and G4 (2.29±1.13) presented higher wear values with no significant differences between them. Conclusion The 10% proanthocyanidin mouthrinse (pH 7.0) could be a good strategy to reduce dentin wear progression.

Nursing training program in childrens hearing health: a proposal for interactive tele-education / Capacitación de enfermeros en salud auditiva infantil: una propuesta de teleducación interactiva / Capacitação dos enfermeiros em saúde auditiva infantil: uma proposta de teleducação interativa

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the effectiveness of a nursing training program in the area of children's hearing health using interactive tele-education. Methods: Interrupted time series with non-random control group pre-test/ post-test. A cohort of 41 nurses, with no previous formal training in hearing health. A "Children's Hearing Health" Cybertutor was employed. The effectiveness of the nursing training was verified by comparing pre- versus post-training performance and by analyzing responses to an evaluation questionnaire. Results: Following training, the performance was significantly better in all domains assessed and in the total score. The evaluation questionnaire demonstrated that the Cybertutor was well accepted and the performance revealed in the pre-training phase demonstrated the need for children´s hearing health training. Conclusion: The effectiveness of the nursing training program in the area of Children's Hearing Health using interactive tele-education could be proven, since there was an improvement in performance in all domains evaluated.

RESUMEN Objetivo: verificar la eficacia de un tutor electrónico - cybertutor en la formación de enfermeros en el área de salud auditiva infantil. Métodos: series temporales interrumpidas con grupo control pretest/posttest no aleatorio. Participaron 41 enfermeros, que fueron capacitados a través de un Cybertutor denomidado "Salud auditiva infantil". La eficacia de la capacitación se verificó comparando el desempeño de los enfermeros en los cuestionarios pre y post capacitación, y la evaluación del Cybertutor se investigó a través de un formulario con preguntas cerradas y abiertas. Resultados: El desempeño en el cuestionario precapacitación demostró la necesidad de capacitación en salud auditiva infantil. Hubo una diferencia en el desempeño después del entrenamiento en todos los dominios evaluados y en el puntaje total. Conclusión: La efectividad del cybertutor en la capacitación de enfermeras en el área de Salud Auditiva Infantil podría demostrarse, ya que hubo una mejora en el rendimiento en todos los dominios evaluados.

RESUMO Objetivo: verificar a eficácia de um tutor eletrônico - cybertutor na capacitação de enfermeiros na área de saúde auditiva infantil. Métodos: séries temporais interrompidas com grupo controle pré-teste/pós-teste não randomizado. Participaram 41 enfermeiros que foram capacitados por meio de um Cybertutor denominado "Saúde Auditiva Infantil". A eficácia da capacitação foi verificada a partir da comparação do desempenho dos enfermeiros, nos questionários pré e pós-capacitação, e a avaliação do Cybertutor foi investigada por meio de um formulário com perguntas fechadas e abertas. Resultados: O desempenho no questionário pré-capacitação demonstrou a necessidade da capacitação em saúde auditiva infantil. Houve diferença no desempenho após a capacitação em todos os domínios avaliados e no escore total. Conclusão: A eficácia do cybertutor na capacitação de enfermeiros na área de Saúde Auditiva Infantil pôde ser comprovada, uma vez que houve melhora no desempenho em todos os domínios avaliados.

Non-inferiority clinical trials: importance and applications in health sciences

Abstract Non-inferiority randomized clinical trials are indicated when it is intended to prove that an experimental group is not inferior to a control group by more than a margin of non-inferiority. However, this type of study differs from traditional randomized clinical trials (superiority studies) because they have particularities that impact on the formulation of hypothesis to be tested, experimental design (non-inferiority margin determination, adapted sample size calculation, sensitivity of the study and data final analysis) and also on the presentation of data when writing the manuscript. Therefore, this article aims to present and discuss the particularities of non-inferiority clinical studies, since these requirements are fundamental to guarantee the validity of the conclusions of this type of study.

Limitation of diagnostic value of cone-beam CT in detecting apical root isthmuses

Abstract Isthmuses are reported as common anatomic complexities in teeth often associated with failures in endodontic treatment. They should be considered before starting treatment and a preoperative computed tomography scan (CT) may demonstrate these complexities. Objective To assess the diagnostic value of the highest resolution settings of a cone-beam CT (CBCT) system in identifying and measuring apical isthmuses, using micro-CT as reference. Methodology After micro-CT scanning, 40 humans' lower first molars with isthmuses in the apical-3 mm of mesial roots were scanned by the highest resolution settings of the New Generation i-Cat ® CBCT equipment. Two blinded observers recorded the detection of isthmuses in CBCT scans. The lengths of isthmuses were compared between micro-CT and CBCT to assess the diagnostic value of CBCT. Quantitative data for sensitivity were represented as percentages (95% confidence interval). The Bland-Altman method was used to assess differences between gold standard lengths (micro-CT) and CBCT lengths. Results BCT demonstrated 30 positive findings, representing sensitivity for isthmus identification of 75% (95% CI=0.4114-1.1364). Differences between the lengths in micro-CT (1.99±0.40 mm) and CBCT (1.53±0.41 mm) were significant (p<0.0001). Conclusion The CBCT device used presented limited diagnostic value in the identification and measurement of apical isthmuses in the mesial roots of lower molars. In some cases, the actual anatomy of the apical root canal may not be completely delineated in this type of CBCT system, even using the highest resolution settings.

Low-level laser therapy dosimetry most used for oral mucositis due to radiotherapy for head and neck cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Dosimetry for low-level laser therapy (LLLT) depends on several parameters, such as target tissue type, lesion type and laser equipment used. This study aimed to determine the most used LLLT dosimetry for the treatment and prevention of oral mucositis (OM) resulting from radiation therapy (RT) in head and neck cancer patients (HNCP). This research was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines using the PICO framework. After extensively searching PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, BVS and Cochrane Library databases, we found 130 records and selected 7 studies, involving 363 HNCP with an average age of 60.6 years who received RT. Briefly, sites affected by tumors were the following: oral cavity (170), oropharynx (91), throat (42), larynx (32), nasopharynx (11), hypopharynx (9), and in 8 cases, sites were not reported. These studies used several classifications for OM (RTOG/EORTC, WHO, NCI-CTC) and pain (NRS, VAS and modified VAS). These various researchers performed the LLLT punctual application of different forms using several protocols making analysis difficult. However, LLLT was effective regardless of the parameters used (632.8 nm to 685 nm, 1.8 J/cm2 to 3.0 J/cm2, 10 mW to 60 Mw, 0.8 J to 3.0 J). The meta-analysis showed a better results with preventive LLLT 660 nm, 3.8 J/cm2, 15 mW; 0.15 J compared to preventive LLLT 660 nm, 1.3 J/cm2, 5 mW; 0.05 J (OMS: p = 0.03; NCI-CTC: p = 0.027). We conclude that there is, as of yet, no evidence of better laser dosimetry being more effective. Thus, randomized clinical trials to determine which doses of LLLT are most appropriate for treating and preventing OM due to RT are lacking and should be further investigated.

In Situ Effect of Intra-Oral Application of Pastes Containing CPP-ACP or CPP-ACPF Against Initial Enamel Erosion

Objective: To evaluate in situ the effect of toothpastes containing casein phosphopeptide - amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate associated to fluoride (CPP-ACPF) on initial erosion prevention. Material and Methods: Bovine enamel blocks (n = 192) were randomly assigned into 4 phases according to the baseline surface hardness: GI: CPP-ACP Paste (MI Paste™), GII: CPP-ACPF Paste (MI Paste Plus™), GIII: Fluoridated paste and GIV: Placebo Paste. In each of the 4 crossover phases, twelve volunteers wore intraoral palatal appliances containing 4 enamel blocks for 2 hours, then the tested treatments were applied intraorally (3 min) and the appliance was maintained in the mouth for another 3 hours. After, the appliances were removed and immersed in hydrochloric acid (0.01 M, pH 2.3) for 30 seconds to promote erosive demineralization. The final surface hardness was evaluated and percentage of surface hardness loss was calculated. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 5%). Results: The application of CPP-ACP paste, independent of fluoride content, resulted in significant lower enamel hardness loss (GI: 9.26% ±3.48 and GII: 9.14% ±1.73) compared to NaF (GIII: 15.5% ± 3.94) and placebo (GIV: 16.7% ± 4.07) pastes, which did not show difference between them. Conclusion: The CPP-ACP pastes were able to reduce initial erosive demineralization in relation to fluoride and placebo pastes. Nevertheless the formulation of CPP-ACP with fluoride did not provide an additional benefit.