Influence of fluoride characteristics on tooth surface protection in an erosive condition: A multifaceted characterization approach.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of fluoride consistency and composition to protect enamel and dentin against the dental erosion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine enamel and dentin specimens were treated with artificial saliva, neutral fluoride gel (NFG), acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (AFG), neutral fluoride foam (NFF), and acidulated phosphate fluoride foam. The samples were subjected to cycling. Micro energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, surface roughness (Ra), contact angle (CA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. Composition, CA and Ra data were analyzed by ANOVA and multiple comparison test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The dentin protected had a significantly higher mineral content than in the control. Eroded unprotected enamel had higher Ra values than normal surfaces. Fluoride treatments increased the Ra in dentin samples. AFG increased the CA in enamel. Fluoride foams increased CA in dentin with reduced mineral loss. SEM analysis found a deposited layer on enamel treated with AFG and remnants of deposits on dentin treated with NFG and NFF. CONCLUSION: Regardless of the form of application, fluoride provided protection against erosion, however with different levels. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Applying the adequate fluoride form is relevant since the formulations have different effects on both enamel and dentin.

Cycle ergometer training and resistance training similarly increase muscle strength in trained men.

The aim of this study was to compare two different maximal intensity exercise modality training protocols of similar durations on muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and lower limb composition in recreationally trained men. Twenty-five trained men (28.9 ± 5.6 years) were randomly divided into Cycle ergometer (4 sets of 30 seconds sprints) and Leg press (4 sets of 10-12 repetitions to momentary failure). Both groups trained three times a week for 5 weeks. Before and after the training period, the participants performed a 10-repetition maximum (10RM) test for knee extension, an incremental exercise test on a treadmill for time to exhaustion (TTE) and peak oxygen consumption (V˙O2peak) and underwent dual energy X-ray absorptiometry to assess lower limb composition. Knee extension 10RM and TTE increased in both groups with no statistically significant between group (p = 0.614 and p = 0.210). Only cycle ergometer group increased V˙O2peak (p = 0,012). For all lower limb composition outcomes, changes were minimal. The results suggest that 5 weeks of effort and duration matched exercise protocols using cycle ergometer training or leg press may produce similar strength adaptations.

Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Streams of the Bacanga and Cachorros Watersheds in São Luís, Brazil.

Impacts on urban water resources are invariably caused by the development of urban centers and the occupation of the watershed. The release of untreated effluents and urban runoff are sources of metals in adjacent water bodies. It is therefore important to conduct studies on the occurrence of these trace elements in the environment and the risks posed to human health. The aim of the present study was to determine Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn concentrations in water bodies located in the Bacanga and Cachorros watersheds and correlate the occurrence of these elements with physicochemical variables of the water (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and electrical conductivity). The variables were determined at the collection site with the aid of a multiparameter kit. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using anodic stripping voltammetry. The results revealed that the streams were not contaminated with the metals analyzed. The only exception was copper in the Limoeiro and Murtura streams, both of which are located in the industrial complex.

Innate immune response in patients with acute Zika virus infection.

Innate immunity receptors (Toll-like receptors/TLRs and RIG-like receptors/RLRs) are important for the initial recognition of Zika virus (ZIKV), modulation of protective immune response, and IFN-α and IFN-ß production. Immunological mechanisms involved in protection or pathology during ZIKV infection have not yet been determined. In this study, we evaluated the mRNA expression of innate immune receptors (TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5/MDA-5, and retinoic acid inducible gene/RIG-1), its adapter molecules (Myeloid Differentiation Primary Response Gene 88/Myd88, Toll/IL-1 Receptor Domain-Containing Adaptor-Inducing IFN-ß/TRIF), and cytokines (IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, IFN-α, IFN-ß, and IFN-γ) in the acute phase of patients infected by ZIKV using real-time PCR in peripheral blood. Patients with acute ZIKV infection had high expression of TLR3, IFN-α, IFN-ß, and IFN-γ when compared to healthy controls. In addition, there was a positive correlation between TLR3 expression compared to IFN-α and IFN-ß. Moreover, viral load is positively correlated with TLR8, RIG-1, MDA-5, IFN-α, and IFN-ß. On the other hand, patients infected by ZIKV showed reduced expression of RIG-1, TLR8, Myd88, and TNF-α molecules, which are also involved in antiviral immunity. Similar expressions of TLR7, TLR9, MDA-5, TRIF, IL-6, and IL-12 were observed between the group of patients infected with ZIKV and control subjects. Our results indicate that acute infection (up to 5 days after the onset of symptoms) by ZIKV in patients induces the high mRNA expression of TLR3 correlated to high expression of IFN-γ, IFN-α, and IFN-ß, even though the high viral load is correlated to high expression of TLR8, RIG-1, MDA-5, IFN-α, and IFN-ß in ZIKV patients.

Histological and Genotoxic Biomarkers in Prochilodus lacustris (Pisces, Prochilodontidae) for Environmental Assessment in a Protected Area in the Northeast of Brazil.

The quality of aquatic environments all around the world is being altered by different human activities that represent direct threat to the ecological system and the aquatic biota. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of histological and genotoxic alterations in Prochilodus lacustris as indicators of anthropic impacts in a lacustrine environment in northeast Brazil. The histological alterations were evaluated using the histological alteration index, and the genotoxic alterations were detected using the micronuclei test, at three sampling stations (S1, S2 and S3). The gills presented lesions with three stages of severity, with mild lesions more frequent in the specimens collected at station S1. Mild hepatic tissue lesions were the most frequent type in both areas. Micronucleus analysis showed that station S3 was the most affected. The biological responses observed indicated that the fish are under influence of environmental changes. It is important to highlight that the organisms collected at station S3 had a more compromised health status.

Nursing interventions with people with obesity in Primary Health Care: an integrative review.

Objective Identify the knowledge produced on nursing interventions with people suffering from obesity in Primary Health Care. Method Integrative literature review of publications indexed in the databases: CINAHL, LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO, SCOPUS and WEB OF SCIENCE, between 2011 and 2016. Results Thirty-three articles were selected. The knowledge produced covered two themes: "Counseling aimed at weight control and promotion of healthy lifestyle habits" and "Perception of Primary Health Care nurses regarding interventions with people with obesity." Conclusion The results may help prompt reflections on professional training, management, and health services in terms of the relevance of nurses working with people suffering from obesity, with the support of digital technologies, motivational techniques, and nursing consultations. This could enhance their activities in the multiprofessional teams in which they participate at this healthcare level.

Maintenance of tobacco withdrawal by former smokers: a phenomenological study. / Manutenção da abstinência do tabaco por ex-fumantes: estudo fenomenológico.

OBJECTIVE To understand the experience of former smokers maintaining tobacco abstinence. METHODS Qualitative research using the theoretical-methodological reference of the Social Phenomenology, as defined by Alfred Schütz. The phenomenological interview was carried out in 2016 with 12 former smokers from a city in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The statements were organized into categories and discussed based on the literature. RESULTS The maintenance of tobacco abstinence was revealed in the categories: "Health, sociability, and financial gains"; "Living with the urge to smoke and with the increase of body weight"; "Self-determination and use of replacement strategies"; and "Staying away from cigarettes." CONCLUSIONS These results alert health professionals to the need to provide support to former smokers so they can remain smoke-free. This implies considering not only the negative effects of the tobacco abstinence, but also the social context in which former smokers are inserted that might have an impact on the maintenance or not of the cigarette withdrawal.

Understanding of the life experience of homeless women.

OBJECTIVE: To understand the life experience of homeless women. METHOD: A social phenomenological study was conducted with 10 women assisted by a shelter. The analysis of the interviews was based on the theoretical framework of social phenomenology of Alfred Schütz and thematic literature. RESULTS: The participants face adversities in the street context, with emphasis on the risk of physical and sexual abuse, and seek shelters as a possibility for minimizing difficulties experienced. They hope to leave the streets; however, they see themselves trapped in this social reality, due to the addiction to alcohol and other drugs. CONCLUSION: The understanding of the life experience of homeless women shows daily confrontations and reveals the conflict between the desire for leaving and remaining on the streets, given the complexity of the reality that keeps them in this condition. OBJETIVO: Compreender a vivência de mulheres em situação de rua. MÉTODO: Pesquisa fenomenológica social realizada com 10 mulheres assistidas por um albergue. A análise das entrevistas ancorou-se no referencial teórico da fenomenologia social de Alfred Schütz e literatura temática. RESULTADOS: As participantes enfrentam adversidades no contexto da rua, com destaque para o risco de violência física e sexual, e buscam o albergue como possibilidade de minimizar as dificuldades vivenciadas. Elas têm como expectativa sair da rua, porém se veem presas a esta realidade social em virtude do vício em álcool e outras drogas. CONCLUSÃO: A compreensão da vivência de mulheres em situação de rua aponta enfrentamentos cotidianos e revela o conflito entre o desejo de sair e permanecer na rua, dada a complexidade da realidade que as mantém nesta condição.

[Understanding unsuccessful attempts to quit smoking: a social phenomenology approach]. / Compreendendo o insucesso da tentativa de parar de fumar: abordagem da fenomenologia social.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to understand the experience of smokers in view of unsuccessful attempts to quit smoking. METHOD: This study is based on social phenomenology. Between November and December of 2014, nine interviews were conducted with people that had attempted to quit smoking. The content of these interviews was analyzed and discussed based on the related literature. RESULTS: Unsuccessful attempts to quit smoking are related to tobacco addiction; cigarettes are seen as a support to cope with everyday stressful situations. Attempts to quit the smoking habits were based on the need of health improvement and insistence of family and friends. Smokers reported the use of habit cessation strategies learned in support groups, but they also express expectation of specialized psychological support. CONCLUSION: The study points out the need to expand the strategies of approaching smokers, and reinforcing psychological support in order to achieve success in the attempt to quit smoking.

Limits and possibilities experienced by nurses in the treatment of women with chronic venous ulcers.

Objective To understand the experiences and expectations of nurses in the treatment of women with chronic venous ulcers. Method Phenomenological research was based on Alfred Schütz, whose statements were obtained in January, 2012, through semi-structured interviews with seven nurses. Results The nurse reveals the difficulties presented by the woman in performing self-care, the perceived limitations in the treatment anchored in motivation, and the values and beliefs of women. It showed professional frustration because venous leg ulcer recurrence, lack of inputs, interdisciplinary work and training of nursing staff. There was an expected adherence to the treatment of women, and it emphasized the need for ongoing care, supported self-care and standard practices in treatment. Conclusion That treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers constitutes a challenge that requires collective investment, involving women, professionals, managers and health institutions.

Evaluation of the thermomechanical properties of novel epoxy composites reinforced with Geonoma baculifera fibers.

Natural lignocellulosic fibers (NLFs) have shown a great potential as reinforcements in composites in recent decades. Among other reasons, environmental concerns and the depletion of oil reserves justify research on natural composites as they offer an environmentally friendly alternative and align with the principles of sustainable development. Among the plethora of NLFs available in nature, the ubim fiber (Geonoma baculifera) has not yet been investigated as a reinforcement for composites in potential engineering applications. Therefore, this study evaluates, for the first time, the mechanical properties of epoxy composites with 10, 20, and 30 vol% of ubim fibers. These properties were assessed through Izod impact, tensile and flexural tests as well as dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The data were statistically analyzed using the ANOVA method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis indicated a transition from a purely brittle fracture mechanism to a ductile-brittle combination as the fiber volume in the composite increased. Tensile tests of the composites demonstrated an increasing trend in strength and elastic modulus with fiber volume. The results of the flexural tests also displayed a similar trend in strength and elasticity modulus for the composites. The results of DMA tests showed that composite materials with a 30 vol% of ubim fibers exhibited a high glass transition temperature and a low tan δ value, suggesting higher stiffness of this composite compared to others. Overall, the results indicated that the incorporation of 30 vol% ubim fibers into the composites significantly improved their mechanical properties compared to other tested fiber fractions. Additionally, their functional characteristics, such as simplicity in the manufacturing process, low cost, and excellent strength-to-weight ratio, make these composites particularly suitable for applications in sectors such as the automotive industry, construction panels, and packaging. These factors contribute to the development of an efficient, sustainable, recyclable and environmentally friendly composite.

[The daily life of men who lives with chronic venous ulcer: phenomenological study]. / O cotidiano do homem que convive com a úlcera venosa crônica: estudo fenomenológico.

The chronic venous leg ulcer is the major therapeutic problem of lower limb injuries, which can trigger changes in the daily life of the person affected by it. This study aimed to understand the daily life of men who lives with chronic venous ulcers. A phenomenological study was conducted with eight men, who were interviewed during June and July of 2001. The study asked questions related to: "Restrictions in social life" and "Recovering the skin integrity and restart the activities affected by the wound". The answers revealed that men with these ulcers have social implications in the areas of productivity and sexuality. This leads to restrictions in everyday life with loss in performance of socially established roles for men, leading to anxiety for his return at full performance of his social role. The findings suggest significant experiential aspects that may guide professionals in the planning and implementation of health actions aimed to treat these patients.

Biomineralization of calcium phosphates functionalized with hydroxyapatite-binding peptide.

Functionalization of calcium phosphates with biomimetic peptides is a promising strategy to increase cellular response for bone tissue repair. In this work, biphasic calcium phosphate pellets were functionalized with the hydroxyapatite-binding peptide pVTK by dropping a suspension of the peptide on the pellet surface. The bioactivity tests were performed in vitro by using McCoy culture medium. Cytotoxicity tests were also performed to assess cell viability. The material was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy with field emission gun (FEG-SEM). The results showed that functionalization with the biomimetic peptide was most effective in inducing precipitation of bone-like apatite on the pellets surface, when compared to the control groups (two positive control groups and one negative control group). Cytotoxicity tests showed that all samples are biocompatible but the pellets with peptide showed the highest values of cell viability.

Comparison of nutritional status and growth curves of children and adolescents in the city of Goiânia, Goiás: cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Nutritional status and growth curves can affect cognitive development, increase the risk of infection, and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Its etiology is related to food, socioeconomic, and maternal conditions. However, to date, no data on these parameters exist in the state of Goiás, Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To compare the nutritional status and growth curves of children and adolescents in the city of Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study. A total of 529 individuals were recruited from a primary health center in the municipality. METHODS: To assess nutritional status, the sample was divided into three categories: 3-4, 5-10, and 11-19 years, with z-score classification considering body mass index for age. The classification of growth curves was performed considering the median height values for age, assuming two references: (a) young Brazilian population and (b) one recommended for international use. The independent sample T-test was used to compare anthropometric variables. RESULTS: The results showed that the classification of eutrophics represents a predominant percentage between both sexes (men: 03-04 = 55.4%; 05-10 = 57.6%; 11-19 = 53.5 % and women: 03-04 = 53.5%; 05-10 = 63.9%; 11-19 = 56.9%), and growth curves showed differences in specific periods in both sexes. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that children and adolescents from the city of Goiânia present as predominance the eutrophic nutritional status, followed by the risk of overweight, underweight, obesity, and malnutrition of both sexes.

Determination of metals in estuarine fishes in a metropolitan region of the coastal zone of the Brazilian Amazon.

The aim of the present study was to determine concentrations of cadmium, copper, chromium, manganese and iron in fishes in the São Marcos (SMB), São Jose (SJB) and Arraial (AB) Bays. Metal concentrations were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Mean Cd and Cr levels were above the permissible limits set by different international or national guidelines in all three bays, whereas copper levels were well below the maximum acceptable limit. High concentrations of iron were found in all species analyzed, whereas high concentrations of manganese were found, especially in specimens caught in SJB. Spatial analysis indicated significant differences among the elements investigated. Copper was correlated more with SMB and AB as well as the species Macrodon ancylodon (carnivore) and Sciades herzbergii (omnivore). Cadmium and iron were strongly associated with AB and SJB, while manganese was only associated with SJB, mainly in carnivorous and herbivorous species.

Assessment of water quality and concentration of heavy metals in fishes in the estuary of the Perizes River, Gulf of Maranhão, Brazil.

The present study evaluated physicochemical and microbiological variables of the water in the estuary of the Perizes River in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, heavy metal levels in the muscle tissue of fish species (Genyatremus luteus, Macrodon ancylodon, Sciades herzbergii and Mugil curema). Data were collected bimonthly between Nov 2017 and May 2018. Physicochemical variables of the water (pH, salinity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and turbidity). The microbiological analysis of the water was performed using the multiple-tube method. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used for the determination of heavy metals in muscle tissue of the fishes. The results revealed minor fluctuations in the environmental variables, with the exception of turbidity. The microbiological quality of the water was associated with acceptable bacterial levels. Regarding heavy metals, acceptable concentrations were found of Al, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni and Hg, whereas Cr and Pb were found at concentrations higher than the maximum.

Case Report: Pott's Edematous Tumor: Complicated Frontal Sinusitis - An Unremembered Diagnosis.

Pott's Puffy tumor, also called Pott's edematous tumor (PET), is a subperiosteal abscess of the frontal bone, associated with osteomyelitis of the frontal bone. In this paper, we report the case of a 16-year-old patient who presented with headache associated with progressive forehead swelling and fever. Clinical and imaging exams pointed to the hypothesis of PET associated with brain abscess. Patient was submitted to surgical excision of the abscess and treatment of osteomyelitis, with intraoperative findings corroborating the condition. There was a good clinical-radiological recovery associated with prolonged antibiotic therapy and satisfactory follow-up after hospital. PET, which often results from an underdiagnosed or partially treated frontal sinusitis, is a condition that must be promptly recognized and directed to an adequate therapeutic approach due to the risk of serious complications that it entails.

[Bachelor and teaching degree in nursing: experiences and expectations of nursing students]. / Licenciatura e bacharelado em enfermagem: experiências e expectativas de estudantes.

This is a phenomenological study that aimed to understand the experience of the student enrolled in both the Bachelor and the teaching undergraduate degree in nursing at the same time. Interviews with eight nursing students from a public university of Minas Gerais, Brazil, were undertaken. Analyses were conducted based on the social phenomenology of Alfred Schütz. Results showed that according to the pupils, there is no connection between the teaching courses and the Bachelor ones, but they also highlighted that the teaching degree helps educational activities in nursing. The students have interest in working with health education and to become nursing teachers. They also consider that the dual degree allows the expansion of knowledge and generates better expectations related to professional practice. However, it has gaps which need to be reviewed by those who work in nursing education, addressing the specific theoretical and practical needs of nursing students.

Actions of nurses toward obesity in primary health care units.

OBJECTIVES: To understand the actions of nurses toward obesity in primary health care units. METHODS: A phenomenological study was carried out with 12 nurses of a city in the state of Minas Gerais. The interviews were organized into categories and analyzed according to the social phenomenology of Alfred Schütz and literature associated with the theme. RESULTS: The following categories emerged, expressing the actions of nurses toward obesity prevention and control: "Guidance on healthy lifestyle habits", "Barriers to the actions of nurses", and "Focusing specifically on obesity". FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: Considering that guidance on healthy lifestyle habits was mostly carried out during individual and collective activities directed to the general population, regardless of their weight conditions, nurses must reorganize their professional practice in primary health care units by implementing specific actions for users with obesity or at risk of developing it.

Experience of adults and older people with adherence to venous ulcer care. / Experiência de pessoas adultas e idosas frente à adesão aos cuidados com a úlcera varicosa.

OBJECTIVE: To understand the experience of adults and older people with adherence to venous ulcer care. METHOD: A qualitative study based on the concepts of Alfred Schütz's social phenomenology was carried out with 12 adults and older people undergoing venous ulcer treatment in a specialized service in the state of Minas Gerais. The interviews were carried out from October to November 2015, analyzed, categorized, and discussed based on the theoretical-philosophical framework adopted and on thematic literature. RESULTS: The following thematic categories emerged from the interviews: "beliefs and personal and social activities hindering adherence to care"; "being protagonists in the care relationship with venous ulcers", and "motivation for adherence to care". CONCLUSIONS: The intersubjective relationship established between patients with venous ulcers and healthcare professionals emerged as a driving force for adherence to care. Promoting the reciprocity relationship of perspectives between these social actors may promote greater adherence to venous ulcer care.