Anticandida and antibiofilm activities of extract from Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl. against Candida spp.

The pathogenic nature of infections caused by Candida spp. underscores the necessity for novel therapeutic agents. Extracts of Schinopsis brasilienses Engl are \ a promising source of agents with antifungal effects. This study aimed to assess the antifungal potential of the leaf extract of S. brasilienses. The antifungal activity was evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations and fungicide concentrations (MIC and MFC). The antibiofilm potential was assessed by counting colony-forming units/mL. The study examined the inhibition kinetics of fungal growth and potential synergism between gallic acid or the extract and nystatin using the Checkerboard method. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through the MTT assay. The extract exhibited antifungal effect against all tested strains, with MIC and MFC ranging from 31.25-250 µg/mL. Gallic acid, the main isolated compound, displayed a MIC of 2000 µg/mL. The extract of S. brasilienses at 31.25 µg/mL inhibited the formation of biofilm by C. albicans and significantly reduced the mass of mature biofilm after 24 and 48 h (p < 0. 05). At a concentration of 125 µg/mL, the extract demonstrated significant inhibition of fungal growth after 6 hours. The combination of gallic acid or extract with nystatin did not exhibit synergistic or antagonistic effect. Furthermore, the extract did not induce cytotoxicity to a human cell line. The extract of S. brasiliensis demonstrates antifungal activity against Candida, generally exhibiting fungicidal action and capacity to inhibit biofilm formation as well as reduce mature biofilms. Additionally, the extract showed low cytotoxicity to human cells.

Anticandida and antibiofilm activities of extract from Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl. against Candida spp

Abstract The pathogenic nature of infections caused by Candida spp. underscores the necessity for novel therapeutic agents. Extracts of Schinopsis brasilienses Engl are / a promising source of agents with antifungal effects. This study aimed to assess the antifungal potential of the leaf extract of S. brasilienses. The antifungal activity was evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations and fungicide concentrations (MIC and MFC). The antibiofilm potential was assessed by counting colony-forming units/mL. The study examined the inhibition kinetics of fungal growth and potential synergism between gallic acid or the extract and nystatin using the Checkerboard method. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through the MTT assay. The extract exhibited antifungal effect against all tested strains, with MIC and MFC ranging from 31.25-250 μg/mL. Gallic acid, the main isolated compound, displayed a MIC of 2000 μg/mL. The extract of S. brasilienses at 31.25 μg/mL inhibited the formation of biofilm by C. albicans and significantly reduced the mass of mature biofilm after 24 and 48 h (p < 0. 05). At a concentration of 125 μg/mL, the extract demonstrated significant inhibition of fungal growth after 6 hours. The combination of gallic acid or extract with nystatin did not exhibit synergistic or antagonistic effect. Furthermore, the extract did not induce cytotoxicity to a human cell line. The extract of S. brasiliensis demonstrates antifungal activity against Candida, generally exhibiting fungicidal action and capacity to inhibit biofilm formation as well as reduce mature biofilms. Additionally, the extract showed low cytotoxicity to human cells.

Trends and Application of Chemometric Pattern Recognition Techniques in Medicinal Plants Analysis.

Medicinal plants have been used and studied for ages, from very old registers to modern ethnopharmacology, which encompasses analytical chemistry, foods, and pharmacy. Based on international norms and governmental organizations of health, phytomedicine-for example, herbal drugs-needs to guarantee the quality control of products and identify contaminants, biomarkers, and chemical profiles, among other issues. In this sense, is necessary to develop advanced analytical methods that show interesting possibilities and obtain a great amount of data. In order to treat the data, a set of mathematical and statistical procedures named chemometrics is necessary. In terms of herbal drugs, chemometric tools may be used to identify the following in plants: parts, development stages, processing, geographic origin, authentication, and chemical markers. This review describes applications of chemometric pattern recognition tools to analyze herbal drugs in different conditions associated with analytical methods in the last six years (2015-2020).

Infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex alters electroacupuncture effect in animals with neuropathic chronic pain.

INTRODUCTION: Morphological reorganization in the neural networks of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) may be involved in the development of chronic neuropathic pain (NP). OBJECTIVES: We investigated whether inactivation and neurostimulation of the infralimbic division (IFL) of the mPFC alter electroacupuncture-induced analgesia (EIA) at 2 Hz and 2/100 Hz in animals with chronic NP. METHODS: Wistar rats were submitted to chronic constrictor injury of the ischiadicus nerve (CCI). Von Frey and acetone tests were performed to evaluate mechanical or cold allodynia. Animals were submitted to electroacupuncture (EA) at 2 Hz and 2/100 Hz for 20 min. After EA, the IFL cortex synaptic contacts were inactivated by cobalt chloride (200 nL of 1.0 mM CoCl2). Neurostimulation of the IFL cortex was also performed at 20 µA for 15 s, after EA, using a deep brain stimulation device. RESULTS: EA at 2 Hz and 2/100 Hz attenuated mechanical or cold allodynia in CCI rats. Microinjection of CoCl2 into the IFL division of the mPFC blocked the EA effect. EA at 2 Hz and 2/100 Hz, in association with neurostimulation of the IFL cortex, attenuated mechanical and thermal allodynia. CONCLUSION: EA induces antinociception in CCI rats. The analgesia was potentiated in association with neurostimulation in the IFL division of the mPFC.

Tablet of Spondias mombin L. Developed from Nebulized Extract Prevents Gastric Ulcers in Mice via Cytoprotective and Antisecretory Effects.

Spondias mombin L. (Anacardiaceae) has a worldwide distribution and is present in all regions of Brazil. Its leaves, flowers and bark are used as teas in folk medicine to treat diseases of the digestive system. This study aimed to evaluate the acute non-clinical toxicity, gastroprotective activity, and the related mechanisms of action of nebulized extract and tablets based on dried Spondias mombin (SmNE). SmNE screening showed the presence of flavonoids (0.65%), polyphenols (25.50%), where the major compound is gallic acid. In the acute oral toxicity assay, a dose of 2000 mg/kg of SmNE administered orally in Swiss mice did not induce any behavioral changes. SmNE (250 or 500 mg/kg p.o) significantly reduced the ulcerative lesion area when compared to the control group in ethanol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) models. Results showed that treatment with SmNE (250 mg/kg) reduced acid secretion and gastric content, accompanied with an increase in pH. Previous administration of indomethacin and glibenclamide reversed the protection provided by SmNE, confirming the participation of prostaglandins (PGs) and ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP) in its gastroprotective effect. The SmNE tablets met the pharmacopeial quality requirements with gastroprotective activity and similar protection in comparison to the isolated extract administrated. In conclusion, SmNe has a gastroprotective activity related to cytoprotective mechanisms, such as the participation of endogenous prostaglandins and KATP channels, having an anti-secretory effect with systemic action. The formulation obtained presented gastroprotective effects similar to the administration of the extract, the tablets showed favorable compression characteristics by the direct route and met the pharmacopeial quality requirements.

Efficacy of essential oil of cinnamon for the treatment of oral candidiasis: A randomized trial.

AIM: It was analyzed the efficacy of mouthwash and spray containing essential oil (EO) of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume for the treatment of oral candidiasis. METHODS AND RESULTS: A randomized, controlled, and blinded clinical trial was conducted with 36 individuals (probabilistic sample) with oral candidiasis who were divided into two treatment groups: C. zeylanicum (0.5 mg/mL), n = 18; nystatin (100,000IU/mL), n = 18. The efficacy of the products was evaluated by two parameters: (a) clinical evolution recorded by calibrated examiners (Kappa = 0.822) according to Newton's classification and (b) reduction of colony-forming units/mL. Mycological and clinical parameters were analyzed before and at 15 days after treatment. Clinical examination of the mucosa showed that C. zeylanicum (p < 0.0339) and nystatin (p < .0139) had efficacy, resulting in a reduction of signs and symptoms (Mann-Whitney test). Mycological analysis showed that C. zeylanicum caused a reduction of 61% and 33% of Candida spp., isolates oral mucosa and dentures, respectively. Candida tropicalis strains were eliminated after C. zeylanicum, in both sites. The participants reported a pleasant taste and few product-related complaints. CONCLUSION: C. zeylanicum EO and nystatin exhibited clinical efficacy, according to the Newton classification, and reducing in Candida spp. The clinical trial has been registered (Registration number: NBR-33s6 × 5, ensaiosclinicos.gov.br).

Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl. to combat the biofilm-dependents diseases in vitro.

Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most prevalent of the biofilm-dependent diseases. With numerous side effects on the use of chlorhexidine, the search for new safe therapeutic alternatives for microorganisms involved with these diseases increases every day. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of extracts made from the bark of Schinopsis brasiliensis Engl. against five oral microorganisms and analyze their phytochemical and thermal degradation profile. The liquid-liquid partition was performed with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate. The identification and quantification of the chemical marker was done. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated based on the minimum inhibitory concentration. The cytotoxicity was analyzed based on the hemolysing potential of the samples. The thermal degradation profile was performed by two different methods. Gallic acid was identified as the main compound of the samples and showed the highest amount in the chloroform fraction. All samples were able to inhibit the growth of the microorganisms tested and showed no cytotoxicity. The ethanol extract absorbs less heat than the fractions. All samples exhibited exothermic peak consistent with degradation of gallic acid. Based on the results, the samples used are potential candidates for use in dental formulations for biofilm control.

Antimicrobial Activity of Schinopsis brasiliensis Engler Extract-Loaded Chitosan Microparticles in Oral Infectious Disease.

Enterococcus faecalis infections represent a health concern, mainly in oral diseases, in which treatments with chlorhexidine solution (0.2%) are often used; however, it presents high toxicity degree and several side effects. Based on this, the use of natural products as an alternative to treatment has been explored. Nonetheless, plant extracts have poor organoleptic characteristics that impair theirs in natura use. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the analytical profile, biological activity, and cytotoxicity in vitro of S. brasiliensis-loaded chitosan microparticles (CMSb) produced using different aspersion flow rates. The analytical fingerprint was obtained by FTIR and NIR spectra. Principal components analysis (PCA) was used to verify the similarity between the samples. The crystallinity degree was evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Phytochemical screening (PS) was performed to quantify phytocompounds. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Antibiofilm activity and bactericidal kinetics against E. faecalis (ATCC 29212 and MB 146-clinical isolated) were also assessed. The hemolytic potential was performed to evaluate the cytotoxicity. Data provided by FTIR, NIR, and PCA analyses revealed chemical similarity between all CMSb. Furthermore, the results from XRD analysis showed that the obtained CMSb present amorphous characteristic. Tannins and polyphenols were accurately quantified by the PS, but methodology limitations did not allow the flavonoid quantification. The low hemolytic potential assay indicates that all samples are safe. Antimicrobial assays revealed that CMSb were able to inhibit not only the E. faecalis ATCC growth but also the biofilm formation. Only one CMSb sample was able to inhibit the clinical strain. These results highlighted the CMSb antimicrobial potential and revealed this system as a promising product to treat infections caused by E. faecalis.

Efeitos da ofuroterapia no relaxamento e ganho de peso em recém-nascidos prematuros na unidade de cuidados neonatal / Ofuro bath effects on relaxation and weight gain of premature newborns in neonatal care units

Os métodos de banho humanizado são os mais indicados na assistência de recém-nascidos pré-termos (RNPT's) de baixo peso, por proporcionar a estes uma melhor resposta adaptativa ao ambiente extrauterino, contribuindo para melhora na organização dos sistemas comportamentais, motores e fisiológicos, assim como no desenvolvimento saudável dessa população, através do relaxamento decorrente da imersão do corpo em água morna, evitando assim o gasto energético. OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos da ofuroterapia no relaxamento e ganho de peso de RNPT's, clinicamente estáveis, admitidos em uma Unidade de Cuidados Intermediários Neonatais (UCIN). MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo, de caráter descritivo e quase exploratório, com uma amostra de 10 recém-nascidos admitidos na UCIN Canguru, do Hospital Maternidade Almeida Castro, Mossoró/RN, Brasil. A população estudada, de baixo peso, foi submetida a 2 sessões semanais de aplicação do método, por 10 minutos em dias alternados. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença significativa estatisticamente no ganho de peso (p=0,127). Nas variáveis hemodinâmicas, a população estudada apresentou aumento na frequência respiratória (FR) no dia 2 (p=0,028), e diminuição da temperatura corporal no dia 1 (p=0,014) e no dia 2 (p=0,005). Em relação a avaliação da dor, não houve diferenças significativas estatisticamente em ambos os dias. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de ser observado o relaxamento proporcionado à população do estudo através da aplicação do método, não foram obtidos dados significativamente estatísticos que comprovem a relação entre o relaxamento proporcionado pela ofuroterapia e o ganho de peso dos RNPT's estudados no presente estudo.

Humanized bathing methods are the most indicated for the care of low weight premature newborns (PTNB), for providing them with a better adaptive response to the extra-uterine environment, contributing to the improvement of the organization of behavioral, motor and physiological systems, as well as to the healthy development of this population, through relaxation resulting from immersion of the body in warm water, thus avoiding energy expenditure. OBJECTIVE: Investigate the effects of ofuro bath on relaxation and weight gain of PTNB, clinically stable, admitted to a Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit (NICU). METHOD: This is a quantitative, descriptive and almost exploratory study, with a sample of 10 newborns admitted in NICU kangaroo of Almeida Castro Maternity, Mossoró/RN, Brazil. The studied population, of low weight, was submitted to 2 weekly sessions of application of the method, for 10 minutes on alternate days. RESULT: There was no statistically significant difference in weight gain (p=0,127). In the hemodynamic variables, the study population showed an increase in respiratory frequency on day 2 (p=0,028), and decrease in body temperature on day 1 (p=0,014) and on day 2 (p = 0.005). Regarding the evaluation of pain, there were no statistically significant differences in the two days. CONCLUSION: Despite being observed the relaxation provided to the study population by applying the method, no statistically significant data were obtained to prove the relationship between the relaxation provided by ofuro bath and the weight gain of the PTNB studied in the present study.

Controle de hemorragia intensa após exodontia em paciente anticoagulado ­ relato de caso / Control of severe bleeding after extraction in an anticoagulated patient - case report

INTRODUÇÃO: A anticoagulação é utilizada na prevenção de eventos tromboembólicos e indicada a diversos pacientes, inclusive valvopatas com prótese metálica, porém seu uso aumenta o risco de sangramento em procedimentos cirúrgicos. RELATO de CASO: paciente gênero masculino, 40 anos, valvopata aórtico-mitral por etiologia reumática com três cirurgias prévias, flutter atrial, miocardiopatia valvar, lesão hepática aguda com prótese metálica mitral internado na enfermaria de um hospital terciário para cirúrgica de retroca valvar e em uso de anticoagulante enoxaparina 70mg 2 vezes ao dia. Foi solicitada avaliação odontológica prévia a cirurgia cardíaca. No exame físico extraoral, paciente contactuante e deambulante e no exame físico intraoral (EFIO), dentado parcial superior e inferior, com presença de cárie e cálculo dentário. Na radiografia panorâmica e periapical, imagem radiolúcida sugestiva de lesão periapical em primeiro molar superior direito com tratamento endodôntico insatisfatório. Optado por remoção do foco infeccioso bucal para posterior liberação para cirurgia cardíaca. A exodontia foi realizada e evoluiu sem intercorrências. Entretanto, no terceiro dia de pós-operatório, paciente retorna com hemorragia bucal. Em EFIO, presença de coágulo mal formado e sangramento ativo na região da exodontia. A conduta realizada foi anestesia local, remoção de coágulo mal formado, curetagem periapical, nova sutura oclusiva da região e curativo local com antifibrinolitico. Novos episódios de sangramento ocorreram no pós operatório, totalizando cinco reabordagens cirúrgicas com o uso de hemostáticos locais e suturas oclusivas, mas sem sucesso. Foi discutido com equipe médica e optado por suspensão do anticoagulante para controle da hemorragia bucal por 48 horas. RESULTADO: Após intervenção odontológica associada a suspensão de medicação, paciente evoluiu sem outros episódios hemorrágicos e com cicatrização da região. Considerações finais: O caso enfatiza a importância da interação entre cirurgião dentista e equipe médica no controle de hemorragia bucal intensa após exodontia em paciente cardiopata grave em uso de anticoagulação de forma eficiente.

Phytochemical characterization and mutagenicity, cytotoxicity, antimicrobial and modulatory activities of Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz.

In this study, the chemical composition, genotoxic, cytotoxic and antibacterial-modulating activities of the P. pyramidalis (NPpE) extract was evaluated. The fingerprint chromatogram was determined using HPLC-DAD. The NPpE Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), as well as that of antimicrobial drugs in the presence and absence of the extract, were evaluated using the microdilution method against Gram positive bacteria. In vivo assays with mice were used for the determination of the extract's genotoxicity and cytotoxicity. The presence of the polyphenol catechin was confirmed in the extract. The extract showed significant antimicrobial activity (MIC ≤ 1000 µg mL-1) against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus oralis and S. mutans. When the NPpE was associated with several antimicrobials, the MIC of most of these were significantly reduced (P < 0.001) demonstrating good prospective usage in antimicrobial therapy. The extract has mutagenic and cytotoxic potential, however, further studies should be performed to confirm their toxicity.

Percepções de estudantes de Enfermagem sobre cuidados paliativos / Nursing students' perceptions of palliative care

RESUMO Objetivo compreender as percepções de graduandos de Enfermagem de uma universidade pública sobre cuidados paliativos. Métodos pesquisa qualitativa, realizada com 66 acadêmicos de Enfermagem, do sexto ao nono período em curso. Utilizou-se de roteiro com questões sobre percepções, vivências durante o curso e se houve ou não abordagem de conteúdos da graduação em cuidados paliativos. Dados compilados pela análise de conteúdo. Resultados emergiram duas categorias temáticas: Medo e frustração: divisores na busca pela dignidade na terminalidade e Incipiência na formação acadêmica e visão reducionista de cuidados paliativos. Conclusão verificou-se a necessidade de obtenção de conhecimentos voltados ao cuidado integral do ser humano, na perspectiva mais humanística, que respeite as necessidades dos indivíduos, principalmente quando relacionadas aos cuidados paliativos.

ABSTRACT Objective to understand the perceptions of nursing students at a public university about palliative care. Methods qualitative research, carried out with 66 nursing students, from the sixth to the ninth period in progress. A script was used with questions about perceptions, experiences during the course and whether or not there was an approach to the contents of the undergraduate course in palliative care. Data compiled by content analysis. Results two thematic categories emerged: fear and frustration, divisors in the search for dignity in terminality and incipience in academic training and a reductionist view of palliative care. Conclusion there was a need to obtain knowledge aimed at comprehensive care for human beings, in the most humanistic perspective, which respects the needs of individuals, especially when related to palliative care.

Plant Extracts Loaded in Nanostructured Drug Delivery Systems for Treating Parasitic and Antimicrobial Diseases.

BACKGROUND: Plant extracts loaded in nanostructured drug delivery systems (NDDSs) have been reported as an alternative to current therapies for treating parasitic and antimicrobial diseases. Among their advantages, plant extracts in NDSSs increase the stability of the drugs against environmental factors by promoting protection against oxygen, humidity, and light, among other factors; improve the solubility of hydrophobic compounds; enhance the low absorption of the active components of the extracts (i.e., biopharmaceutical classification II), which results in greater bioavailability; and control the release rate of the substances, which is fundamental to improving the therapeutic effectiveness. In this review, we present the most recent data on NDDSs using plant extracts and report results obtained from studies related to in vitro and in vivo biological activities.

Fludroxycortide cream as an alternative therapy for actinic cheilitis.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study is to assess, by clinical follow-up, the efficacy of the dermatological cream Fludroxycortide 0.125 mg/g (Drenison®) in the treatment of actinic cheilitis (AC). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-three patients diagnosed with AC participated in the study. Fifteen were submitted to corticotherapy with Fludroxycortide, applied three times a day for up to 6 weeks, associated with lip sunscreen (LS) before sun exposure. In the control group of eight patients, only the use of LS was established. At each weekly return, a photographic record was made of the lesion. After treatment, images were evaluated and scores were assigned to verify clinical evolution. Also, patients treated with Fludroxycortide responded to a questionnaire, to assess drug tolerability and treatment satisfaction. RESULTS: In the group treated with Fludroxycortide (n = 15), five patients showed total improvement, seven presented partial improvement, and three showed no clinical change. Concerning the patients treated with LS (n = 8), one presented total remission of the clinical lesion characteristics, four exhibited partial improvement, and three exhibited no clinical lip alteration. No case presented symptom worsening. Of the 15 patients undergoing corticotherapy, 12 were satisfied and reported that the product was not irritating and contributed to lesion improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Conventional treatment with LS was effective in the remission of some AC lesions, but treatment responses were improved when associated with Fludroxycortide, especially in the more severe cases. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: As it is a non-invasive therapy leading, in most cases, to adequate clinical results, safety, and tolerability, Fludroxycortide can be considered an effective alternative treatment for AC.

Transference of bioactive compounds from support plants to the termites Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Isoptera).

This study aims to investigate the microbiological potential of the termite species Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Silvestri, 1901) and its support plants. We collected five C. cyphergaster nests from three different support plant species. Microbiological assays were performed on these extracts using the serial microdilution method in triplicate to measure the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each microorganism for the analysed extract. The ethanol extracts of the termite C. cyphergaster showed no significant activity against strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, with an MIC >1000 µg mL-1. Only the extracts of the nests and termites with the nest had the same MICs. These results were in contrast to the extracts of Spondias tuberosa (Umbuzeiro), Poincianella pyramidalis (Catingueira), and Amburana cearensis (Cumaru), which demonstrated significant activity against S. aureus with MICs <1000 µg mL-1. The modulating activity of the extracts tested in the present study demonstrated potentiation of most antibiotics across the bacterial strains tested when combined with the extracts for both S. aureus and E. coli. These results indicate that the extracts tested in the present study may be composed of animal and vegetable origins with the potential to modify the activity of antibiotics and thus may aid in antimicrobial therapy.

Pilates na qualidade de vida de idosos de um centro de práticas integrativas e complementares / Pilates in the quality of life of the elderly of a center for integrative and complementary practices

A execução do referido projeto poderá ampliar o campo de atuação dos profissionais que trabalham com o método Pilates, para além do setor privado de saúde. Bem como permitir capacitação profissional dos profissionais já inseridos no serviço público

Dissolution and uniformity of content of tablets developed with extract of Ximenia americana L.

Herbal medicines currently represent an important part of the world pharmaceutical market, which shows growing interest in the use of herbal medicines. However, the production of such medicines involves a complex series of steps, which determine the production viability and the quality of the final product. Ximenia americana L. is a plant occurring in several regions of the world, with well-known and applied medicinal properties. Thus, the aim of this work was to develop and evaluate the physical and physical-chemical quality of tablets produced with X. americana L. extract. The extract was spray-dried from a hydroethanolic extractive solution and characterized as to its phytochemical composition. The chemical marker was determined and quantified using validated chromatographic methods. These methods indicated the presence of gallic acid at a concentration of 1.61 mg g(-1). Formulations were proposed and analyzed for their flow and compaction properties. The best formulation was used to obtain a batch of tablets, which was evaluated for its quality characteristics and showed to be within the pharmacopoeial specifications for average weight, hardness, friability, and disintegration time. The dissolution profile of the tablets produced was obtained, showing the release of about 70% of the vegetable extract content within 30 minutes. Results showed that it was possible to obtain herbal tablets containing a high content of vegetal extract by direct compression, developing a rapid process of formulation and production and guaranteeing the quality characteristics of the final product.

Evaluation of laser therapy and alpha-lipoic acid for the treatment of burning mouth syndrome: a randomized clinical trial.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in the treatment of burning mouth syndrome (BMS) and secondary oral burning (SOB) by unstimulated sialometry, symptom assessment, and measurement of salivary TNF-α levels. Forty-four patients were randomized into four treatment groups: BMS/laser (n = 10), BMS/ALA (n = 5), SOB/laser (n = 15), and SOB/ALA (n = 14). The control group consisted of eight healthy female subjects. Unstimulated salivary flow was measured before and after treatment, and the collected saliva was stored at - 20 °C for the analysis of TNF-α. Symptoms were evaluated before and after treatment using a pain visual analog scale. Most patients were women (81.8%) during menopause (72.2%). LLLT and ALA were efficient in increasing salivary flow only in BMS but provided symptom relief in both conditions. TNF-α levels did not differ between patients with BMS and SOB or between those patients and the control group. No differences were observed in posttreatment TNF-α levels in either condition. The results of this study suggest that LLLT and ALA are efficient therapies in reducing burning mouth symptoms, with LLLT being more efficient than ALA.

Inclusão escolar: concepções de professores e práticas educativas / School inclusion: conceptions of teachers and educational practices / Inclusión escolar: concepciones de los profesores y las prácticas educativas

Este estudo buscou investigar as concepções de professores envolvidos com a inclusão escolar, conhecer o andamento de aulas em que há alunos de inclusão e como o tema aparece nos Projetos Político-Pedagógicos (PPP). A pesquisa ocorreu em uma escola pública e duas particulares. Foram entrevistados 13 educadores, observadas três alunos de inclusão e analisados dois PPP. Constatou-se que os professores percebem uma dicotomia entre a teoria e a prática da inclusão, embora o discurso seja majoritariamente favorável ao tema. Há pouca adaptação das escolas e a aprendizagem é falha. Professores de escolas particulares recebem maior incentivo de formação continuada, e os da escola pública desejam maior apoio. Os PPP não abordam o tema. A inclusão escolar está distante dos objetivos

This study aimed to investigate the conceptions from teachers involved with school inclusion, the knowledge of class practices where there are inclusion students and how the issue is approached in the political-pedagogical projects (PPP). The research took place in a public school and in two private ones. Thirteen teachers were interviewed, three inclusion students were observed and two PPP were analyzed. The results show that teachers perceive a dichotomy between the theory and the practice concerning inclusion, in spite of the fact that the discourse is largely favorable to the matter. There are few adaptations on the school side and the teaching is faulty. Private school teachers receive greater encouragement prone to continued education and those from public school long for more support. The PPPs do not approach the issue. School inclusion is far from their objectives.

Este estudio procuró investigar las concepciones de los profesores que participan en la inclusión escolar, conocer el progreso de las clases en las que hay alumnos de la inclusión y la forma en que el tema aparece en los proyectos político-pedagógicos (PPP). La investigación se llevó a cabo en una escuela pública y dos privadas. Entrevistamos a 13 educadores, observamos tres estudiantes de inclusión y analizamos dos PPP. Se encontró que los docentes perciben una dicotomía entre la teoría y la práctica de la inclusión, aunque el discurso fue ampliamente favorable al tema. Hay poca adaptación de las escuelas y falla el aprendizaje. Los maestros de escuelas privadas reciben mayor estímulo de educación continuada y los de la escuela pública quieren más apoyo. Los PPP no abordan el tema. La inclusión escolar está lejos de los objetivos.

Effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training on sleep and functional capacity to exercise in obstructive sleep apnea: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on sleep and functional capacity to exercise in subjects with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). METHODS: This is a controlled, randomized, double-blind study conducted in 16 OSA patients divided into two groups: training (IMT: n = 8) and placebo-IMT (P-IMT: n = 8). IMT was conducted during 12 weeks with a moderate load (50-60% of maximal inspiratory pressure-MIP), while P-IMT used a load < 20% of MPI. Total daily IMT time for both groups was 30 min, 7 days per week, twice a day. RESULTS: There was no difference comparing IMT to P-IMT group after training for lung function (p > 0.05) and respiratory muscle strength (p > 0.05). Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2Max) was not significantly different between IMT and P-IMT group (mean difference - 1.76, confidence interval (CI) - 7.93 to 4.41, p = 0.71). The same was observed for the other ventilatory and cardiometabolic variables measured (p > 0.05). A significant improvement in sleep quality was found when Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) values of IMT and P-IMT group after training were compared (mean difference: 3.7, confidence interval 95% (CI95%) 0.6 to 6.9, p = 0.02) but no significant changes were seen in daytime sleepiness between both groups after the intervention (mean difference: 3.4, CI 95%: - 3.3 to 10.0; p = 0.29). CONCLUSION: According to these results, 12 weeks of moderate load IMT resulted in improved sleep quality, but there were no significant repercussions on functional capacity to exercise or excessive daytime sleepiness.