Association of Socioeconomic Status and Oral Cancer Mortality in Brazil: Temporal Trends and Spatial Distribution.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this observational study was to evaluate the relationship between the oral cancer mortality rate and socioeconomic indicators throughout the Brazilian territory, between 2010 and 2019. METHOD: The variables used in this study were oral cancer mortality rates from the Mortality Information System (SIM) and population data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) to calculate oral cancer mortality rates, along with the Human Development Index (HDI) and Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). The analysis was performed in tertile stratifications (Microsoft Excel 16.0), while temporal trends were examined by segmented linear regression (JoinPoint 4.9.0). RESULTS: High mortality rates were observed in more developed regions (South and Southeast), whereas temporal analysis showed significant increasing trends in the North (annual percentage changes [APC] = +3.9%; p < 0.05) and Northeast (APC = +2.4%; p < 0.05) regions. The greater HDI (APC = +1.7%; p < 0.05) and SVI (APC = +2.2%; p < 0.05) tertiles had the lowest annual percentage increase, showing an inverse relationship between the temporal trend of mortality and socioeconomic indicators. CONCLUSION: Despite the higher number of oral cancer deaths in regions with higher social indices, increasing temporal trends are more accentuated in regions with lower socioeconomic levels.

Terapia floral na evolução do parto e na tríade dor-ansiedade-estresse: estudo quase-experimental / Terapia floral en la evolución del parto y en la tríada dolor-ansiedad-estrés: estudio cuasi experimental / Flower therapy in the evolution of childbirth and in the pain-anxiety-stress triad: quasi-experimental study

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o efeito da Terapia floral na evolução do trabalho de parto e na tríade dor-ansiedade-estresse das mulheres durante o nascimento. Métodos Estudo quase-experimental realizado no período de maio a julho de 2018 no centro-obstétrico de um hospital referência para a assistência ao nascimento de baixo risco na Região Sul do Brasil, com 60 participantes (30 no Grupo Controle e 30 no Grupo Floral). A intervenção consistiu na administração dos Florais de Bach durante o trabalho de parto combinados por compostos capazes de regatar o equilíbrio emocional em situações de dor, ansiedade e estresse com a adição de 99,75% de conhaque orgânico Francês à 30% para 0,25% da tintura mãe. O grupo placebo recebeu uma mistura combinada de água com adição de 99,75% de conhaque orgânico Francês à 30% para 0,25% da tintura mãe. Ambos foram acondicionados em frascos conta gotas de 30 ml de igual tamanho, formato e característica. Para análise foi utilizado o teste t a fim de comparar as variáveis estudadas antes e após a intervenção e entre os grupos. Resultados As variáveis analisadas como dilatação cervical, contrações uterinas, ocitocina, cortisol e tempo do trabalho de parto apresentaram diferenças significativas para o Grupo Floral quando comparado com o placebo. Conclusão A Terapia floral pode ser uma alternativa para a mulher durante o trabalho de parto por auxiliar na progressão do parto sem trazer prejuízos ao recém-nascido.

Resumen Objetivo Analizar el efecto de la terapia floral en la evolución del trabajo de parto y en la tríada dolor-ansiedad-estrés de mujeres durante el nacimiento. Métodos Estudio cuasi experimental realizado en el período de mayo a julio de 2018 en el centro obstétrico de un hospital de referencia en la atención al nacimiento de bajo riesgo en la región sur de Brasil, con 60 participantes (30 en el grupo de control y 30 en el grupo floral). La intervención consistió en la administración de Flores de Bach durante el trabajo de parto combinadas con compuestos capaces de rescatar el equilibrio emocional en situaciones de dolor, ansiedad y estrés con la adición de 99,75 % de coñac orgánico francés al 30 % en 0,25 % de tintura madre. El grupo placebo recibió una mezcla combinada de agua con la adición de 99,75 % de coñac orgánico francés al 30 % en 0,25 % de tintura madre. Ambas fueron colocadas en frascos con cuentagotas de 30 ml de igual tamaño, formato y características. Para el análisis se utilizó el test-T a fin de comparar las variables estudiadas antes y después de la intervención y entre los grupos. Resultados Las variables analizadas, como dilatación cervical, contracciones uterinas, oxitocina, cortisol y tiempo de trabajo de parto presentaron diferencias significativas en el Grupo Floral en comparación con el de placebo. Conclusión La terapia floral puede ser una alternativa para la mujer durante el trabajo de parto porque ayuda a la evolución del parto sin perjuicios para el recién nacido.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effect of flower therapy on the evolution of labor and on the pain-anxiety-stress triad of women during birth. Methods Quasi-experimental study conducted from May to July 2018 in the obstetric center of a reference hospital for low-risk birth care in southern Brazil with 60 participants (30 in the control group and 30 in the floral group). The intervention consisted of administering Bach Flower Remedies during labor combined with compounds capable of restoring emotional balance in situations of pain, anxiety and stress with the addition of 99.75% organic French brandy at 30% to 0.25% of the mother tincture. The placebo group received a combined water mix with added 99.75% organic French brandy at 30% to 0.25% of the mother tincture. Both were put in 30 ml dropper bottles of the same size, shape and characteristic. In the analysis, the t test was used to compare the variables studied before and after the intervention, and between groups. Results Variables analyzed such as cervical dilation, uterine contractions, oxytocin, cortisol and duration of labor showed significant differences for the floral group compared to placebo. Conclusion Flower therapy can be an alternative for women during labor, as it helps in the progression of labor without harming the newborn.

Antitumor Effects of Carvacrol and Thymol: A Systematic Review.

Background: It is estimated that one in five people worldwide faces a diagnosis of a malignant neoplasm during their lifetime. Carvacrol and its isomer, thymol, are natural compounds that act against several diseases, including cancer. Thus, this systematic review aimed to examine and synthesize the knowledge on the antitumor effects of carvacrol and thymol. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Lilacs databases in April 2020 (updated in March 2021) based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The following combination of health descriptors, MeSH terms and their synonyms were used: carvacrol, thymol, antitumor, antineoplastic, anticancer, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell proliferation, in vitro and in vivo. To assess the risk of bias in in vivo studies, the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool was used, and for in vitro studies, a modified version was used. Results: A total of 1,170 records were identified, with 77 meeting the established criteria. The studies were published between 2003 and 2021, with 69 being in vitro and 10 in vivo. Forty-three used carvacrol, 19 thymol, and 15 studies tested both monoterpenes. It was attested that carvacrol and thymol induced apoptosis, cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, antimetastatic activity, and also displayed different antiproliferative effects and inhibition of signaling pathways (MAPKs and PI3K/AKT/mTOR). Conclusions: Carvacrol and thymol exhibited antitumor and antiproliferative activity through several signaling pathways. In vitro, carvacrol appears to be more potent than thymol. However, further in vivo studies with robust methodology are required to define a standard and safe dose, determine their toxic or side effects, and clarify its exact mechanisms of action. This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020176736) and the protocol is available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=176736.

Nephrotoxic Effects Caused by Occupational Exposure to Agrochemicals in a Region of Northeastern Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the renal function of rural workers in a city of northeastern Brazil. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 208 workers in Boquim, Sergipe, Brazil. Renal function markers and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were evaluated and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined. The sample consisted mainly of illiterate males with a low usage of personal protective equipment and no training. Approximately 40% had some level of renal failure. Relative risk (1.59) of GFR alteration was higher in workers with more than 5 yr of exposure, mainly to organophosphates. Workers more than 60 yr of age presented a 17.06 greater risk for manifesting acute intoxication. Butyrylcholinesterase reduction was associated with reports of intoxication (relative risk of 11.36). We concluded that exposure to pesticides represented a risk factor for the development of nephrotoxic effects and alteration of renal function, which reinforced the need to implement measures to protect rural workers. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1132-1138. © 2020 SETAC.

Bioactivity in SBF versus trace element effects: The isolated role of Mg2+ and Zn2+ in osteoblast behavior.

The bioactivity assay originally proposed by Kokubo is one of the most commonly used tests to indirectly evaluate the biocompatibility of bioactive glasses. However, extensive evidence has shown that trace elements present in biomaterials may stimulate cellular behavior in different ways even when no apatite formation is observed, i.e., in biomaterials with low or no bioactivity. To further elucidate this topic, we designed three different SiO2-rich bioglass compositions in which CaO was partially replaced by ZnO and MgO, two oxides known to affect bioactivity as well as osteoblastic behavior. The physicochemical changes induced by the presence of oxides and their effects on biological behavior, as well as the adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblast-like osteosarcoma cells (MG-63), were followed by a bioactivity assay in simulated body fluid (SBF). The insertion of ZnO or MgO decreased the glass transition (Tg) and crystallization (Tc) temperatures as a function of the increase in nonbonding oxygens, which was directly reflected in the higher solubility. The release of Mg2+ ions from the MgO-containing samples inhibited the bioactivity in SBF, inducing high cell adhesion and proliferation and moderate ALP activity. The release of Zn2+ also inhibited the bioactivity in SBF but, in contrast to the release of Mg2+, induced low cell adhesion and proliferation and high ALP activity compared to the control.

Primary school educational intervention r egarding schistosomiasis in a riverside community, northeastern Brazil

Schistosomiasis is still a serious public health concern in Brazil and Sergipe State presents the highest prevalence rate of the disease. Brazil implemented the Schistosomiasis Control Program (PCE) with several strategies to control the disease, including health education actions in endemic areas. Herein, we assessed the impact of an educational intervention on knowledge concerning schistosomiasis in students from a riverside village of Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil. The study was carried out in 3 phases. 1) A questionnaire was applied to assess the students' knowledge about the biological, clinical, and epidemiological aspects of schistosomiasis mansoni (pre-test). 2) Next, an educational intervention was conducted. Pamphlets about schistosomiasis were distributed to the entire school community, who were then invited to a lecture. 3) A post-test was performed using the questionnaire to assess acquired knowledge. 151 elementary school students were interviewed. 2.6% of the pre-test students and 4.3% of the post-test group had already been diagnosed with schistosomiasis. In the pre-test, only 24.5% knew the cause of the disease and 48.3% the transmission sites. In the post-test, 74.3% (OR= 8.9; p-value<0.0001) knew the etiology and 77.1% the possible transmission sites (OR= 3.6; p-value<0.0001). There was also significant improvement in knowledge regarding signs, symptoms and prophylactic measures. Most students were unaware of the risk of reinfection by Schistosoma mansoni after treatment. The educational intervention proved quite effective in increasing information on schistosomiasis. These results reinforce the importance of health education as an auxiliary tool in the control of schistosomiasis.

Coronavirus disease and basic sanitation: too early to be worried?

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Considering that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been detected in feces, this study aimed to verify a possible relationship between basic sanitation indices and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) numbers/rates. METHODS: Data of COVID-19 cases registered in Brazil until May 28, 2020, and independent variables associated with basic sanitation were analyzed. RESULTS: A significant correlation between the number of cases and sewage treatment index/population density was observed. In addition, COVID-19 incidence and mortality rates were significantly associated with the total water service index and lethality rate was significantly associated with the sewage treatment index. CONCLUSIONS: Precarious basic sanitation infrastructure may potentially increase the SARS-CoV-2 transmission in Brazil.

Avaliação microbiológica de salames coloniais produzidos por agroindústrias da agricultura familiar / Microbiological evaluation of colonial salames produced by agroindustry family farming

Tendo em vista o valor nutricional, econômico e também o cultural que o salame desempenha na região Sudoeste do Paraná, esta pesquisa teve como intuito analisar a qualidade microbiológica de três amostras deste embutido produzidos por agroindústrias da agricultura familiar instaladas na região. Duas amostras analisadas apresentaram resultados insatisfatórios nas análises microbiológicas realizadas, com relação ao índice de coliformes termotolerantes e presença de Staphylococus aureus. Desta forma revelando que a produção de embutidos ainda carece de maior fiscalização e cuidados perante a manipulação e preparo dos mesmos.

O impacto das crenças em saúde sobre o controle da hipertensão arterial de idosos / The impact of health beliefs on the control of arterial hypertension in the elderly

Avaliar o impacto das crenças em saúde no controle da pressão arterial de idosos hipertensos em um município com elevado índice de desenvolvimento humano (IDHM), considerando sexo e classe social. Metodologia: O estudo foi realizado nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município de São Caetano do Sul. Foram coletadas informações sociodemográficas por meio de questionário. Aferiu-se a PA para a identificação dos pacientes hipertensos controlados e não controlados. Utilizou-se escala de crenças em saúde com sentenças sobre crenças de barreiras e benefícios relacionados a cada um dos treze comportamentos de saúde referentes às medidas de prevenção e controle da hipertensão arterial. Realizou-se análise descritiva e razão de prevalência, considerando significância para p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: Observamos que a maioria dos pacientes aderiu ao tratamento, tendo noção dos benefícios de controlar os fatores de risco de hipertensão. Conclusão: Concluímos que os dados foram semelhantes entre homens e mulheres e a classe social impactou inversamente na adesão ao tratamento medicamentoso

To assess the impact of health beliefs on blood pressure control in hypertensive elderly patients in a municipality with a high human development index (HDI), considering sex and social class. Methodology: The study was carried out at the Basic Health Units of the municipality of São Caetano do Sul. Sociodemographic information was collected through a questionnaire. BP was measured to identify controlled and uncontrolled hypertensive patients. A health belief scale with judgments on the perceived barriers and benefits related to each of the thirteen health behaviors corresponding to hypertension prevention and control measures was used. A descriptive analysis was conducted and a prevalence ratio calculated, considering significance for p ≤0.05. Results: We observed treatment adherence in the majority of patients, who were aware of the benefits of controlling the risk factors for hypertension. Conclusion: We concluded that the data were similar between men and women, and that social class had an inverse impact on compliance with drug treatment

Level of physical activity in basic education teachers evaluated by two instruments / Nível de atividade física em professores do ensino básico avaliado por dois instrumentos

ABSTRACT Cardiovascular diseases are the main causes of national death, and sedentary is an important risk factor in this degenerative process. To evaluate the level of physical activity (LPA) of teachers in the public school system of Viçosa MG by means of two distinct instruments and the agreement obtained between them. A total of 200 teachers of both genders, aged between 25 and 68, participated in this research. LPA was measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and through the use of a pedometer. The calculations of the prevalence of active and non-physically active individuals were performed, and the Kappa (K) index was subsequently used to establish agreement between the instruments. All analyzes were performed in MedCalc software, version 14. 10. 2 and SPSS, version 20. For the IPAQ, 70% of teachers reached adequate levels of physical activity (LPA), while by the pedometer only 26.5%. The agreement between the five categories of the pedometer and the IPAQ was not significant, as well as in the classification in active and non-active, between the instruments. In conclusion evaluating the LPA through the IPAQ it was possible to perceive that the majority of the teachers were classified as active. However, when considering the threshold of 10000 steps/day of average, using the pedometer as an instrument of evaluation of the NAF, the majority of the group cannot be considered active. In addition, there was no agreement between the instruments for the evaluation of NAF.

RESUMO As doenças cardiovasculares são as principais causas de óbito nacional, sendo o sedentarismo um importante fator de risco neste processo degenerativo. O objetivo foi avaliar o nível de atividade física (NAF) de docentes na rede pública de ensino de Viçosa MG por meio de dois instrumentos distintos e a concordância obtida entre eles. Participaram desta investigação 200 professores de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 25 e 68 anos. O NAF foi mensurado pelo Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ) e por meio da utilização de um pedômetro. Foram realizados os cálculos das prevalências de indivíduos ativos e não ativos fisicamente e posteriormente o índice Kappa (K) para estabelecer a concordância entre os instrumentos. Todas as análises foram realizadas no software MedCalc, versão 14. 10. 2 e SPSS, versão 20. Pelo IPAQ, 70% dos professores atingiram níveis adequados de atividade física (AF), enquanto, pelo pedômetro apenas 26.5%. A concordância entre as cinco categorias do pedômetro e do IPAQ não foi significativa, assim como na classificação em ativos e não ativos, entre os instrumentos. Conclui-se que avaliando o NAF através do IPAQ foi possível perceber que a maioria dos docentes foram classificados como ativos. Entretanto quando se considera o limiar de 10000 passos/dia de média, utilizando o pedômetro como instrumento de avaliação do NAF, a maior parte do grupo não pode ser considerada ativa. Além disso, não houve concordância entre os instrumentos para a avaliação do NAF.

Prevalence of obesity and association of body mass index with risk factors in public school teachers / Prevalência de obesidade e associação do índice de massa corporal com fatores de risco em professores da rede pública

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and the association of body mass index (BMI) with cardiovascular risk factors in public school teachers. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 basic education teachers from Viçosa, MG. We assessed BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), body fat percentage (%BF), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, total cholesterol, high-density and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), triglycerides, and number of daily steps. Linear regression was used to evaluate the associations between BMI (independent variable) and the other variables (dependent variable). Overweight was observed in 58% of the teachers and obesity in 20%. Among women, all risk factors differed significantly between the group with overweight and/or obesity and the group classified as normal BMI, except for total cholesterol and LDL-C. Linear regression analysis showed a positive association between BMI and the other anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical parameters; however, after adjustment for age, an association was only observed with the anthropometric variables (WC, WHR, and %BF). The prevalence of overweight/obesity was high among the basic education teachers studied. The overall obesity indicator (BMI) was not associated with cardiovascular risk factors when adjusted for age.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a prevalência de sobrepeso e obesidade, além da associação entre o índice de massa corporal (IMC) com os fatores de risco cardiovascular em professores da rede pública. Foi realizado um estudo transversal em 200 professores da educação básica de Viçosa-MG. Avaliaram-se o IMC, a circunferência de cintura (CC), a relação cintura-quadril (RCQ), o percentual de gordura corporal (%GC), a pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica, a glicemia de jejum, o colesterol total, a lipoproteína de alta e baixa densidade (LDL-C), os triglicerídeos e o número de passos diários. Avaliaram-se as associações entre o IMC (variável independente) e demais variáveis (variável dependente) por meio da regressão linear. Foram encontrados 58% de excesso de peso entre os professores, sendo que 20% apresentaram obesidade. Entre o sexo feminino, todos os fatores de risco foram estatisticamente diferentes entre o grupo com sobrepeso e/ou obesidade comparados ao grupo classificado com IMC normal, exceto para o colesterol total e LDL-C. O valor de passos diários apresentou tendência de redução com o aumento do IMC. A análise de regressão linear mostrou associação positiva entre o IMC e as demais medidas antropométricas, pressóricas e bioquímicas, porém, após correção pela idade, apenas observou-se associação com as variáveis antropométricas (CC, RCQ e %GC). Foi encontrada uma elevada prevalência de sobrepeso/obesidade nos professores da educação básica. O indicador de obesidade geral (IMC) não apresentou associação com os fatores de risco cardiovascular, quando ajustado em função da idade.

Qualidade de vida de professoras do ensino básico da rede pública / Quality of life of basic education teachers of public schools

Avaliar os aspectos associados à qualidade de vida (QV) de professoras do ensinobásico da rede pública de Viçosa-MG, buscando relações com a classe econômica. Métodos:Trata-se de um estudo descritivo transversal, desenvolvido entre março e outubro de 2013,realizado com 156 professoras da cidade de Viçosa-MG. Foram aplicados os questionáriosWorld Health Organization Quality of Life/BREF e o Critério de Classificação Econômica.Utilizou-se também um questionário contendo tempo de atuação e carga horária semanalde trabalho. Para comparação dos domínios da QV entre as classes econômicas, utilizou-seo teste ANOVA one way, com post hoc de Tukey. Para todos os tratamentos, adotou-se umnível de significância de p<0,05. Resultados: As avaliadas apresentaram idade média de43,88 (+ 10,61) anos, carga horária de trabalho semanal de 29,00 (+ 10,35) horas e tempode atuação profissional de 16,17 (+ 8,91) anos. A maioria das avaliadas se encontrava naclasse econômica B1/B2, com 60,3%. O escore médio da QV geral foi de 68,43 (+ 11,69)pontos, com maiores valores para os domínios “relações sociais” e “físico”. Foi encontradauma redução na média do domínio “meio ambiente” em relação à menor classe econômica(p=0,011). Houve correlação fraca e inversa entre o domínio “relações sociais” e a cargahorária semanal de trabalho (r=-0,16; p=0,031). Conclusão: A QV da população estudadafoi considerada entre regular e boa, levando-se em conta a escala do protocolo. Houveassociação somente entre o domínio “meio ambiente” e a classe econômica...

Fatores associaoos à pressão arterial elevada em professores da educação básica / Factors associated with high blood pressure in basic education teachrss

RESUMOO objetivo do estudo foi analisar a pressão arterial elevada e os fatores associados a essa alteração pressórica em professores da educação básica. Foi realizado um estudo transversal em 200 professores de Viçosa-MG, com média de idade 43,2 + 10,2 anos. Foram avaliadas variáveis antropométricas, bioquímicas, pressóricas e número de passos diários. Calculou-se a análise de regressão linear múltipla para verificar a associação entre as variáveis. Foram encontrados 20% de hipertensos, com estes obtendo maiores valores de idade, índice de massa corporal (IMC), circunferência abdominal, relação cintura-quadril, percentual de gordura, glicemia e triglicerídeos; e menores valores de lipoproteína de alta densidade e número de passos em comparação aos normotensos (p<0,05). Houve associação entre elevação da pressão arterial e idade (r=0,34; p<0,000), IMC (r=0,27; p<0,000), dislipidemia (r=0,19; p=0,003) e diabetes mellitus (r=0,18; p=0,006). Conclui-se que a prevalência de pressão arterial elevada encontrada foi semelhante à observada em outros estudos, e a idade, índice de massa corporal, presença de dislipidemia e diabetes mellitus, são fatores associados à pressão arterial elevada em professores da educação básica.

ABSTRACTThe aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence of high blood pressure and factors associated with high blood pressure in basic education teachers. Was conducted a cross-sectional study in 200 teachers of Viçosa-MG, mean age 43.2+10.2 years. Were evaluated anthropometric, biochemical, blood pressure and number of daily steps. Were calculated the linear regression analysis multiple to assess the association between variables. Were found 20% of hypertensive, with these getting higher age, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, percent fat, glucose and triglycerides; and lower high density lipoprotein and number of steps when compared to normotensive (p<0.05). There was an association between high blood pressure and age (r=0.34; p< 0.000), BMI (r=0.27; p< 0.000), dyslipidemia (r=0.19; p=0.003) and diabetes mellitus (r=0.18; p=0.006). In conclusion, the prevalence of high blood pressure was similar to the observed in other studies, and the age, body mass index, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus are factors associated with high blood pressure in basic education teachers.

Padronização da análise de mutações no gene TP53 em carcinomas de células escamosas de boca em material parafinado / Standardization of TP53 gene mutations analysis on oral squamous cell carcinoma from paraffin-embedded tissues

Introduction: The tumor protein p53 gene (TP53) is a constant target of investigation in cancer pathogenesis. Analysis by immunohistochemistry provides limited data about p53 in oral carcinogenesis, and TP53 sequencing can contribute to this analysis. However, obtaining high-quality and contamination-free deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for a proper amplification can be a difficult task when using paraffin-embedded tissues. Objective: Standardize DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and DNA sequencing techniques for TP53 mutation analysis. Material and methods: Thirty-nine cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were selected from the Pathology Division of Instituto Nacional de Câncer (Inca). The DNA extraction method used was the QIAamp® DNA minikit® system. After DNA quantification by spectrophotometry, 250 ng of genetic material obtained from TP53 gene were amplified by PCR for exon 2 and by nested PCR for exon 6. Out of the total sample, 11 cases were selected for exon 2 sequencing. Results: The DNA samples presented mean concentration of 119.74 ± 88.86 ng/µl (28.9-556.4) and purity of 1.69 ± 0.18 (1-1.9). Thirty-three (84.6%) samples were amplified for exon 2, and all samples for exon 6 (39/100%). Readable sequencing data were obtained in 10 (90.9%) cases. Conclusion: Optimization of conditions for TP53 sequencing was obtained, and this will facilitate the analysis of mutations in paraffin-embedded tissues, allowing molecular retrospective studies...

Introdução: O gene TP53 (proteína tumoral p53) é alvo constante de investigação na patogênese do câncer. A imuno-histoquímica fornece dados limitados na análise de p53 no processo da carcinogênese bucal e o sequenciamento de TP53 pode contribuir nessa investigação. Contudo, a obtenção de ácido desoxirribonucleico (DNA) com qualidade para amplificação e livre de contaminação pode constituir uma tarefa difícil na utilização de material parafinado. Objetivo: Padronizar as técnicas de extração de DNA, amplificação por reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) e sequenciamento para a análise de mutações em TP53. Material e métodos: Foram selecionados 39 casos de carcinomas de células escamosas bucal da Divisão de Patologia do Instituto Nacional de Câncer (Inca). O DNA foi extraído utilizando o sistema comercial QIAamp® DNA minikit®. Após quantificação do DNA por espectrofotometria, 250 ng de amostra foram amplificados pela técnica de PCR para o éxon 2 e por nested PCR para o éxon 6 do gene TP53. Da amostra total, 11 casos foram selecionados para a padronização da reação de sequenciamento do éxon 2. Resultados: As amostras de DNA apresentaram concentração média de 119,74 ng/µl ± 88,86 (28,9-556,4 ng/µl) e pureza de 1,69 ± 0,18 (1-1,9). Do total das amostras analisadas, 33 (84,6%) foram amplificadas para o éxon 2, e todas (39/100%), para o éxon 6. No sequenciamento do éxon 2 obtiveram-se sequências passíveis de leitura em 10 (90,9%) casos. Conclusão: A otimização das condições para o sequenciamento de TP53 foi obtida, o que facilitará a análise de mutações em tecidos parafinados, permitindo...

Synthesis and cytotoxicity evaluation of granular magnesium substituted beta-tricalcium phosphate

Objective: The aim of this study was to produce dense granules of tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and magnesium (Mg) substituted β-TCP, also known as β-TCMP (Mg/Ca=0.15 mol), in order to evaluate the impact of Mg incorporation on the physicochemical parameters and in vitro biocompatibility of this novel material. Material and Methods: The materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electron microscopy and inductively coupled plasma (ICP). Biocompatibility was assayed according to ISO 10993-12:2007 and 7405:2008, by two different tests of cell survival and integrity (XTT and CVDE). Results: The XRD profile presented the main peaks of β-TCP (JCPDS 090169) and β-TCMP (JCPDS 130404). The characteristic absorption bands of TCP were also identified by FTIR. The ICP results of β-TCMP granules extract showed a precipitation of calcium and release of Mg into the culture medium. Regarding the cytotoxicity assays, β-TCMP dense granules did not significantly affect the mitochondrial activity and relative cell density in relation to β-TCP dense granules, despite the release of Mg from granules into the cell culture medium. Conclusion: β-TCMP granules were successfully produced and were able to release Mg into media without cytotoxicity, indicating the suitability of this promising material for further biological studies on its adequacy for bone therapy.

Large screening of CA-MRSA among Staphylococcus aureus colonizing healthy young children living in two areas (urban and rural) of Portugal.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of pediatric infections due to community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), including children with no identifiable risk factors, has increased worldwide in the last decade. This suggests that healthy children may constitute a reservoir of MRSA in the community. In this study, nested within a larger one on nasopharyngeal ecology, we aimed to: (i) evaluate the prevalence of MRSA colonizing young children in Portugal; and (ii) compare results with those obtained in a study conducted a decade ago, when this prevalence was <0.5%. METHODS: In the years 2006, 2007, and 2009, nasopharyngeal samples were obtained from 2,100 children aged up to 6 years attending day-care centers. S. aureus were isolated by routine procedures and strains were tested for susceptibility against a panel of 12 antimicrobial agents. MRSA isolates were further characterized by SmaI-PFGE profiling, MLST, spa typing, SCCmec typing, and presence of virulence factors. RESULTS: Seventeen percent of the children carried S. aureus. Among the 365 isolates, non-susceptibility rates were 88% to penicillin, 14% to erythromycin, 6% to clindamycin, 2% to tetracycline, and <1% to oxacillin, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, and SXT. Three MRSA strains were isolated. These had properties of CA-MRSA, such as low-level resistance to oxacillin and limited resistance to non-beta-lactams. Two CA-MRSA were related to USA700 (ST72-IV): one was ST72-IVc, spa type t148; the other was ST939-IVa (ST939 is a single locus variant (SLV) of ST72), spa type t324. The third strain was related to USA300 (ST8-IV) being characterized by ST931 (SLV of ST8)-VI, spa type t008. The three MRSA strains were PVL-negative, but all carried LukE-LukD leukocidin, hemolysins gamma, gamma variant and beta, and staphylococcal enterotoxin sel. CONCLUSIONS: Our results, based on analysis of S. aureus isolated from nasopharyngeal samples, suggest that in Portugal the prevalence of CA-MRSA carriage in healthy young children remains extremely low favoring the exclusion of this group as a reservoir of such isolates.

Prevalence of oral hairy leukoplakia and epithelial infection by Epstein-Barr virus in pregnant women and diabetes mellitus patients--cytopathologic and molecular study.

Oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL) is generally reported in patients with severe immunosuppression, except for a few cases in individuals with moderate degree of immunodeficiency. It is a white lesion that appears mainly in the lateral border of the tongue, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The nuclear changes caused by EBV (Cowdry A inclusion, ground glass and nuclear beading), observed in cytopathology, are specific and enough for the definitive diagnosis of OHL, independent of the identification of the virus. Here we investigated the prevalence of OHL and the presence of EBV-DNA in the lateral borders of the tongue from 90 pregnant women, 90 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, 30 healthy individuals (negative group) and 30 HIV+ with OHL (positive group). Smears were analyzed by cytopathology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A case of subclinical OHL and candidiasis was identificated in a DM patient by cytopathologic analysis. PCR results demonstrated EBV-DNA in 65% of the pregnant women, in 35% of DM patients, and in 20% of the healthy individuals. We concluded that DM patients can develop OHL with a low prevalence. Furthermore, the prevalence of the EBV in lateral border of the tongue is larger in pregnant women than in healthy individuals.

Prevalence of oral hairy leukoplakia and epithelial infection by Epstein-Barr virus in pregnant women and diabetes mellitus patients: cytopathologic and molecular study

Oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL) is generally reported in patients with severe immunosuppression, except for a few cases in individuals with moderate degree of immunodeficiency. It is a white lesion that appears mainly in the lateral border of the tongue, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The nuclear changes caused by EBV (Cowdry A inclusion, ground glass and nuclear beading), observed in cytopathology, are specific and enough for the definitive diagnosis of OHL, independent of the identification of the virus. Here we investigated the prevalence of OHL and the presence of EBV-DNA in the lateral borders of the tongue from 90 pregnant women, 90 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, 30 healthy individuals (negative group) and 30 HIV+ with OHL (positive group). Smears were analyzed by cytopathology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A case of subclinical OHL and candidiasis was identificated in a DM patient by cytopathologic analysis. PCR results demonstrated EBV-DNA in 65 percent of the pregnant women, in 35 percent of DM patients, and in 20 percent of the healthy individuals. We concluded that DM patients can develop OHL with a low prevalence. Furthermore, the prevalence of the EBV in lateral border of the tongue is larger in pregnant women than in healthy individuals.

Alterações fisiológicas e patológica do idoso e suas implicações na Odontologia / Odontology: physiological and pathological alterations on the elders

Segundo estatística da ONU e IBGE, em 2025 o Brasil será o sexto país do mundo em números de idosos. Serão 33 milhões de pessoas acima de 60 anos em uma população de 250 milhões de habitantes. A peculiar filosofia do idoso pode alterar a farmacocinética e a farmacodinâmica dos medicamentos prescritos. Além disso, as múltiplas patologias que possam existir e o uso frequente de polifarmacologia podem acarretar interações medicamentosas prejuduciais. Esta revisão de literatura tem o objetivo de caracterizar as alterações fisiológicas e patológicas da senescência, a polifarmacologia e suas implicações na Odontologia

Reservas das sementes de sete espécies de Theobroma: revisão / Seed reserves from seven species of the genus Theobroma: a review

Os estudos sobre as reservas das sementes do gênero Theobroma referem-se sobretudo de T. cacao L, atéhoje a única fonte da matéria prima do chocolate. Essas pesquisas abordaram as mudanças bioquímicas ocorridas na semente durante a fermentação, secagem, torração ou seja das etapas de produção do chocolate. Mais recentes são os trabalhos com sementes de T. grandiflorum (cupuaçu), utilizadas na elaboração do cupulate, produto com algumas características do chocolate. Por esse motivo, os especialistas em Theobroma estão ampliando as análises com as reservas das sementes para as espécies T. grandiflorum (Willd. Ex Spreng.) Schum, T. subincanum Mart, T. obovatum Bern., T. bicolor H. & B., T. microcarpum Mart e T. speciosum Mart. Como o interesse é voltado à possibilidade de ampliar as fontes de chocolate,as características estudadas nesta revisão são comparadas com T. cacao L. O mesofilo cotiledonar é semelhante em todas as espécies aqui estudadas devido a predominância de reserva lipídica e protéica. As células do cotilédone imaturo demonstram capacidade para sintetizar todas as reservas; na maturidade demonstram predominância de reservas lipídicas, protéicas ou de mucilagem ou de polifenóis