Impact of social distancing from the COVID-19 pandemic on the immuno-inflammatory response of older adults.

BACKGROUND: Older adults, as the population considered at increased risk for severe COVID-19, were the most impacted by social isolation. Thus, this study aimed to assess the salivary immune/inflammatory response of older adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cohort of 11 older adults (mean age 66.8 ± 6.1) was followed at three different time points: before (S1) and after 6 (S2) and 20 months (S3) of the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Unstimulated saliva samples were obtained to assess the levels of antibodies (secretory IgA, IgG and IgM) by ELISA and cytokines (IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10, TSLP, IFN-γ, TNF-α) by multiplex analysis. Significant differences were evaluated using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's post-test. RESULTS: None volunteer presented periodontal disease or caries. All volunteers received at least two doses of the COVID-19 vaccines after S2 and before S3. A tendency to increase salivary levels of SIgA and IgM at S2 and of IgG at S3 were observed compared to the values found at S1 and S2. Significantly decreased levels of IL-2 and IL-5 were found at S2 and S3 (p < 0.001) time points. Lower levels of IFN-γ were found at S2 as compared to the values observed at S1 (p < 0.01). A significant decrease in the IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio was found at S2 (p < 0.01). When assessing the Th1/Th2 ratios, a significant decrease was found in the IFN-γ/TSLP ratio at S2 (p < 0.001) and S3 (p < 0.001) when compared to the values at S1. In addition, a significant increase was observed in the TNF-α/IL-5 ratio at S2 (p < 0.001) and S3 (p < 0.001) in comparison to the values at S1. In a similar way, an increase in the TNF-α/IL-6 ratio (Fig. 5E) was observed at S3 (p < 0.001) when compared to the values at S1. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the impact of COVID-19-induced social isolation on immune/inflammatory responses in the upper airway mucosa, particularly those present in oral cavity, of older adults. It demonstrates that a controlled shift in Th1 and Th2 immune responses, both during infection and post-vaccination, can create favorable conditions to combat viral infections without exacerbating the immune response or worsening the pathology.

Evaluation of IL-4, MIP-1α, and MMP-9 gene expression levels in peri-implant tissues in peri-implantitis.

This case-control study evaluated the gene expression levels of interleukin (IL)-4, macrophage inflammatory protein type 1 alpha (MIP-1α), and metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, factors involved in the formation of giant cells in healthy peri-implant tissue and peri-implantitis. Thirty-five subjects (15 healthy and 20 with peri-implantitis), who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were included in this study. The peri-implant tissue biopsies were subjected to total RNA extraction, DNAse treatment, and cDNA synthesis. Subsequently, the reaction of real-time PCR was performed to evaluate the gene expression levels of IL-4, MIP-1α, and MMP-9 concerning the reference gene. IL-4 gene expression showed higher (18-fold) values in the Peri-Implantitis Group of Patients when compared with the Healthy (Control) Group (p<0.0001). Although MIP- 1α and MMP-9 gene expression levels were higher in diseased implants, they showed no significant differences (p=0.06 and p=0.2337), respectively. Within the limitations of this study, the results showed that in tissues affected by peri-implantitis, only levels of Il-4 were increased when compared with tissues in the control group.

Evaluation of IL-4, MIP-1α, and MMP-9 gene expression levels in peri-implant tissues in peri-implantitis

Abstract This case-control study evaluated the gene expression levels of interleukin (IL)-4, macrophage inflammatory protein type 1 alpha (MIP-1α), and metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, factors involved in the formation of giant cells in healthy peri-implant tissue and peri-implantitis. Thirty-five subjects (15 healthy and 20 with peri-implantitis), who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were included in this study. The peri-implant tissue biopsies were subjected to total RNA extraction, DNAse treatment, and cDNA synthesis. Subsequently, the reaction of real-time PCR was performed to evaluate the gene expression levels of IL-4, MIP-1α, and MMP-9 concerning the reference gene. IL-4 gene expression showed higher (18-fold) values in the Peri-Implantitis Group of Patients when compared with the Healthy (Control) Group (p<0.0001). Although MIP- 1α and MMP-9 gene expression levels were higher in diseased implants, they showed no significant differences (p=0.06 and p=0.2337), respectively. Within the limitations of this study, the results showed that in tissues affected by peri-implantitis, only levels of Il-4 were increased when compared with tissues in the control group.

Resumo Este estudo caso-controle teve como objetivo avaliar a expressão gênica dos níveis de interleucina (IL)-4, proteína inflamatória de macrófagos tipo alfa 1 (MIP-1α) e metalopreoteinase (MMP)-9, todos fatores envolvidos na formação de células gigantes em tecidos peri-implantares saudáveis e com peri-implantite. Trinta e cinco indivíduos (15 saudáveis e 20 com peri-implantite) foram incluídos nesse estudo seguindo os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Os tecidos peri-implantares foram submetidos a extração do RNA total, tratamento de DNAse e síntese de cDNA. Subsequentemente, a reação de PCR em tempo real foi realizada para avaliar os níveis da expressão de IL-4, MIP-1α, e MMP-9 em relação ao gene de referência. O nível de expressão de IL-4 foi estatisticamwente maior (18 vezes) nos tecidos de pacientes com peri-implantite quando comparados aos pacientes saudáveis (grupo controle) (p<0,0001). Embora os níveis de expressão de MIP- 1α e MMP-9 apresentassem maiores valores nos implantes doentes, esses níveis não foram estatisticamente significantes (p=0.06 and p=0.2337) respectivamente. Dentro das limitações desse estudo, os resultados mostraram que nos tecidos afetados pela peri-implantite, apenas os nívies de IL-4 estavam aumentados quando comparados ao grupo controle.

Quality of life and socio-demographic factors associated with nutritional risk in Brazilian community-dwelling individuals aged 80 and over: cluster analysis and ensemble methods.

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to use cluster analysis and ensemble methods to evaluate the association between quality of life, socio-demographic factors to predict nutritional risk in community-dwelling Brazilians aged 80 and over. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 104 individuals, both sexes, from different community locations. Firstly, the participants answered the sociodemographic questionnaire, and were sampled for anthropometric data. Subsequently, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was applied, and Mini Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (MAN) was used to evaluate their nutritional status. Finally, quality of life (QoL) was assessed by a brief version of World Health Organizations' Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire and its older adults' version (WHOQOL-OLD). Results: The K-means algorithm was used to identify clusters of individuals regarding quality-of-life characteristics. In addition, Random Forest (RF) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithms were used to predict nutritional risk. Four major clusters were derived. Although there was a higher proportion of individuals aged 80 and over with nutritional risk in cluster 2 and a lower proportion in cluster 3, there was no statistically significant association. Cluster 1 showed the highest scores for psychological, social, and environmental domains, while cluster 4 exhibited the worst scores for the social and environmental domains of WHOQOL-BREF and for autonomy, past, present, and future activities, and intimacy of WHOQOL-OLD. Conclusion: Handgrip, household income, and MMSE were the most important predictors of nutritional. On the other hand, sex, self-reported health, and number of teeth showed the lowest levels of influence in the construction of models to evaluate nutritional risk. Taken together, there was no association between clusters based on quality-of-life domains and nutritional risk, however, predictive models can be used as a complementary tool to evaluate nutritional risk in individuals aged 80 and over.

Effects of physical distancing by COVID-19 pandemic on diet quality, neurological and immunological markers, and fecal microbiota of Brazilian older women.

Physical distancing was used to prevent transmission of COVID-19, however there are concerns that this may promote harmful impacts on health, such as reduced levels of physical practice and changes in food intake and gut microbiota composition. This study evaluated the impacts of 6 months physical distancing on Brazilian older women upon body mass index (BMI), strength, physical activity level (IPAQ), eating habits, neurological markers (brain-derived neurotrophic factor-BDNF and cortisol), cytokines (IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, interferon-IFN-γ, tumor necrosis factor-TNF-α), aging-associated markers (vascular endothelial growth factor-VEGF, insulin-like growth factor-IGF-1, klotho and thymic stromal lymphopoietin-TSLP), besides specific groups of fecal microbiota. Fifteen women, over 60 years old, residents of São Paulo state (Brazil), were evaluated in March and in September 2020. The older adult women, with a mean age 66 ± 6.2 years presented significantly increased BMI and high effect size for non-protective foods consumption, reduced light physical activity and strength 6 months following the physical distancing. Furthermore, the serum concentration of IFN-γ, IGF-1, and IFN-γ/IL-5 were significantly higher, while lower concentration of IL-2 and IL-5 were observed 6 months after the physical distancing. Significant increase was noted only to Blautia spp. abundance after 6 months of physical distancing. Several correlations were observed at both before and after physical distancing, however, interestingly, many of them were lost or inverted 6 months following, while new ones emerged. Taken together, these results showed that lifestyle changes and stress conditions addressed by physical distancing from the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the health of older women included in the present study. Therefore, future follow-up studies are essential to propose interventions in order to restore the health conditions observed before the pandemic period, and thus to maintain the quality of life of older adults in different socioeconomic contexts.

The Potential Role of a Surface-Modified Additive-Manufactured Healing Abutment on the Expression of Integrins α2, ß1, αv, and ß6 in the Peri-Implant Mucosa: A Preliminary Human Study.

The stability of peri-implant soft tissues is essential for long-term success. Integrins play a vital role in biological processes through developing and maintaining cell interactions; however, few studies have evaluated the effects of modifications to abutment surfaces on cell adhesion across integrin expression. Therefore, this pilot study assessed the influence of different surface topographies of titanium healing abutments prepared by additive manufacturing (AM) on the gene expression levels of the integrin subunits α2, ß1, αv, and ß6 in the human peri-implant mucosa. Thirteen healthy adults were included. Depending on the number of required implants, the subjects were distributed in different groups as a function of healing abutment topography: group 1 (fully rough surface); group 2 (upper machined + lower rough); group 3 (rough upper surface + lower machined); group 4 (fully machined). A total of 40 samples (n = 10/group) of the peri-implant mucosa around the abutments were collected 30 days after implant placement, and subsequently, the gene expression levels were evaluated using real-time PCR. The levels of gene expression of ß1-subunit integrin were upregulated for individuals receiving fully rough surface abutments compared with the other surface topographies (p < 0.05). However, the healing abutment topography did not affect the gene expression levels of the α2, αv, and ß6 integrin subunits in the human peri-implant mucosa (p > 0.05). This preliminary study suggested that controlled modifications of the surface topography of titanium healing abutments produced by AM may influence the quality of the peri-implant mucosa in the early stages of the soft tissue healing process.

Transcription Factor AhR, Cytokines IL-6 and IL-22 in Subjects with and without Peri-Implantitis: A Case Control-Study.

Peri-implantitis is a plaque-associated condition characterized by mucosal inflammation and subsequent progressive loss of supporting bone; it is caused by bacterial biofilm, but the host response triggered by bacterial stimulation promotes the release of cells and mediators that culminate in tissue destruction. The Aryl-hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) is associated with IL-22 production by Th22 and Th17 CD4+ Th cells. The presence of IL-6 may promote the Th22 phenotype. The present case-control study evaluated the gene expression of AhR, IL-22, and IL-6 in the peri-implant tissues of healthy and peri-implantitis patients. Tissue biopsies were collected from thirty-five volunteers (15 healthy and 20 with peri-implantitis). A real-time PCR reaction was utilized to assess the AhR, IL-22, and IL-6 gene expression levels relative to the reference gene (GAPDH). The results were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney test with a significance level of 5%. Higher levels of gene expression of AhR and IL-6 were detected in peri-implantitis tissues. The IL-22 gene expression levels did not differ between groups. In conclusion, higher gene expression levels for AhR and IL-6 were detected in the soft tissues of peri-implantitis patients. IL-22 did not vary between conditions, which may indicate the loss of the immunomodulatory role of IL-22 in periimplantitis.

DYNAMIC POSTURAL BALANCE IS MEDIATED BY ANTHROPOMETRY AND BODY COMPOSITION IN OLDER WOMEN.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between anthropometry and body composition with dynamic postural balance in elderly women with low bone mineral density (BMD). METHODS: 45 older women (≥ 60 years), low BMD and nutritional diagnosis of low weight to overweight. For the assessment of body composition, Dual energy X-ray emission densitometry and anthropometric examination were used to measure: body mass (kg), height (cm) and BMI (k/m2). The assessment of dynamic postural balance was performed by the mini Balance Master Evaluation System clinical test and the computerized Balance Master® System test by the Sit to Stand and Step Up/Over tests. RESULTS: There was a negative correlation between miniBESTest (r = - 0.566; p ≤ 0.001) and time to ascend and descend step (r = - 0.393; p ≤ 0.007) with fat mass, and positive correlation with miniBESTest (r = 0.526; p ≤0.001) and time to go up and down a step with muscle mass (r = 0.297; p ≤ 0.04). As for anthropometric variables, only height showed a positive correlation (r = 0.296; p ≤ 0.04) with the speed in the sit and stand test. CONCLUSION: Lean mass reduces postural oscillations; in contrast, fat mass negatively interfered with dynamic postural balance in women with low BMD. Height was related to dynamic postural balance, the taller the elderly, the worse their balance. Level of Evidence II, Prognostic Studies - Investigating the Effect of a Patient Characteristic on the Outcome of Disease.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a relação da antropometria e composição corporal com o equilíbrio postural dinâmico em idosas com baixa Densidade Mineral Óssea (DMO). MÉTODOS: 45 idosas (≥ 60 anos), baixa DMO e diagnóstico nutricional entre baixo peso e sobrepeso. Para a avaliação da composição corporal utilizou-se a densitometria por emissão de raios x de dupla energia e exame antropométrico para aferir: massa corporal (kg), estatura (cm) e índice de massa corporal (IMC) (k/m2). A avaliação do equilíbrio postural dinâmico foi realizada pelo teste clínico mini Balance Master Evaluation System, pelo teste computadorizado Balance Master ® System e pelos testes Sit-to-Stand e Step Up/Over. Resultados: Houve correlação negativa do miniBESTest (r = − 0,566; p ≤ 0,001) e tempo de subir e descer um degrau (r = − 0,393; p ≤ 0,007) com a massa gorda, e correlação positiva do miniBESTest (r = 0,526; p ≤ 0,001) e tempo de subir e descer um degrau com a massa muscular (r = 0,297; p ≤ 0,04). Quanto às variáveis antropométricas, apenas a estatura apresentou correlação positiva (r = 0,296; p ≤ 0,04) com a velocidade no teste de sentar-se e levantar-se. CONCLUSÃO: A massa magra reduz as oscilações posturais. Em contrapartida, a massa gorda interfere de forma negativa no equilíbrio postural dinâmico de mulheres com baixa DMO. A estatura esteve relacionada ao equilíbrio postural dinâmico: quanto mais altas as idosas pior era seu equilíbrio. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de característica de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

Corrigendum: Self-Perception of Changes in Routines in Adults and Older Adults Associated to Social Distancing Due to COVID-19-A Study in São Paulo, Brazil.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.607559.].

Dynamic postural balance is mediated by anthropometry and body composition in older women / Equilíbrio postural dinâmico é mediado pela antropometria e composição corporal em idosas

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the relationship between anthropometry and body composition with dynamic postural balance in elderly women with low bone mineral density (BMD). Methods: 45 older women (≥ 60 years), low BMD and nutritional diagnosis of low weight to overweight. For the assessment of body composition, Dual energy X-ray emission densitometry and anthropometric examination were used to measure: body mass (kg), height (cm) and BMI (k/m2). The assessment of dynamic postural balance was performed by the mini Balance Master Evaluation System clinical test and the computerized Balance Master® System test by the Sit to Stand and Step Up/Over tests. Results: There was a negative correlation between miniBESTest (r = − 0.566; p ≤ 0.001) and time to ascend and descend step (r = − 0.393; p ≤ 0.007) with fat mass, and positive correlation with miniBESTest (r = 0.526; p ≤0.001) and time to go up and down a step with muscle mass (r = 0.297; p ≤ 0.04). As for anthropometric variables, only height showed a positive correlation (r = 0.296; p ≤ 0.04) with the speed in the sit and stand test. Conclusion: Lean mass reduces postural oscillations; in contrast, fat mass negatively interfered with dynamic postural balance in women with low BMD. Height was related to dynamic postural balance, the taller the elderly, the worse their balance. Level of Evidence II, Prognostic Studies - Investigating the Effect of a Patient Characteristic on the Outcome of Disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a relação da antropometria e composição corporal com o equilíbrio postural dinâmico em idosas com baixa Densidade Mineral Óssea (DMO). Métodos: 45 idosas (≥ 60 anos), baixa DMO e diagnóstico nutricional entre baixo peso e sobrepeso. Para a avaliação da composição corporal utilizou-se a densitometria por emissão de raios x de dupla energia e exame antropométrico para aferir: massa corporal (kg), estatura (cm) e índice de massa corporal (IMC) (k/m2). A avaliação do equilíbrio postural dinâmico foi realizada pelo teste clínico mini Balance Master Evaluation System, pelo teste computadorizado Balance Master ® System e pelos testes Sit-to-Stand e Step Up/Over. Resultados: Houve correlação negativa do miniBESTest (r = − 0,566; p ≤ 0,001) e tempo de subir e descer um degrau (r = − 0,393; p ≤ 0,007) com a massa gorda, e correlação positiva do miniBESTest (r = 0,526; p ≤ 0,001) e tempo de subir e descer um degrau com a massa muscular (r = 0,297; p ≤ 0,04). Quanto às variáveis antropométricas, apenas a estatura apresentou correlação positiva (r = 0,296; p ≤ 0,04) com a velocidade no teste de sentar-se e levantar-se. Conclusão: A massa magra reduz as oscilações posturais. Em contrapartida, a massa gorda interfere de forma negativa no equilíbrio postural dinâmico de mulheres com baixa DMO. A estatura esteve relacionada ao equilíbrio postural dinâmico: quanto mais altas as idosas pior era seu equilíbrio. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de característica de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

Self-Perception of Changes in Routines in Adults and Older Adults Associated to Social Distancing Due to COVID-19-A Study in São Paulo, Brazil.

COVID-19 is an acute respiratory illness with higher mortality in older adults. This condition is spread person-to-person through close contact, and among policies employed to decrease transmission are the improvement of hygiene habits and physical distancing. Although social distancing has been recognized as the best way to prevent the transmission, there are concerns that it may promote increased depression symptoms risk and anxiety, mainly in older adults. This cross-sectional study aimed to verify self-concept of social distancing in adults compared to older adults. All participants, over 18 years and residents of São Paulo state (Brazil), were invited to join this research study by a message application and answered an interdisciplinary questionnaire during the period from May 23 to June 23, 2020. The questions were divided into the following aspects: sociodemographic data, financial conditions, routine-related perception, perception of health, physical and emotional state, and eating habits. The younger adult group was composed of 139 participants, with a mean age of 43.15 years (±10.92), and the older adult group was composed of 437 participants with a mean age of 67.59 years (±6.13) of both sex. Changes in routine during the period of social distance were reported by 95% of adults and 96.8% of older adults, but adults indicated more significant alterations in routine. Although there was no difference between groups for several aspects, adults revealed greater alterations in sleep quality, evacuation frequency, and more difficulty to perform daily activities at home. Further studies are necessary to follow up the impacts of social distancing among adults and older adults in different socioeconomic contexts to better understand the long-term alterations and the necessity of interventions.

Vitamin D supplementation associated with 12-weeks multimodal training in older women with low bone mineral density: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of vitamin D supplementation with a multimodal exercise program on postural balance and muscle strength in older women with low bone mineral density (BMD) and vitamin D insufficiency. METHODS: 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Total of 422 subjects were screened for participation, and 46 met the inclusion criteria. Those were randomized into an experimental group (EG; n = 23) and control group (CG; n = 23). At the time of enrollment, all subjects had low BMD, vitamin D insufficiency, and were not practicing resistance exercise. Muscle strength assessments were performed by the 30-s sit to stand test; 15-steps climbing test; handgrip dynamometer and knee muscle strength using an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/sec. Postural balance was clinically evaluated by the MiniBESTest and by a force platform. Dynamic balance was assessed by standing up from a chair and walk over a step, using also a force platform. RESULTS: In the EG, vitamin D levels increased in the post-treatment period (P < 0.001) whereas in CG levels remained unchanged (P = 0.86). Both groups improved muscular strength in the dynamometry isokinetic test: flexors PT/BW - right (P < 0.02) and left side (P < 0.04). In the dynamic postural balance during the task to step up over: the Lift Up Left was better in the CG (P = 0.01); the Moment Time left was better in the CG (P = 0.01); the Impact index left was better in the EG (P = 0.01). The Mini-BESTest - both groups improved the postural balance test (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Vitamin D supplementation associated with multimodal exercise program did not augment muscle strength adaptation or postural balance in older women with low bone mineral density and vitamin D insufficiency.

Treg and TH17 link to immune response in individuals with peri-implantitis: a preliminary report.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Treg and TH17 cells influence the inflammatory process in periodontal diseases and could also play in a similar pattern, an essential role in immune-inflammatory mechanisms involved in the destruction of the peri-implant tissues, peri-implantitis. Therefore, this study evaluated the levels of RORγT and FOXP3 gene expression in subjects with peri-implantitis and healthy peri-implant tissues. METHODS: A total of 35 subjects with implant-supported restorations in both diseased and healthy clinical conditions (n = 15 healthy; n = 20 peri-implantitis) were included in this study. Peri-implantitis was defined as probing depth > 5 mm, bleeding on probing and/or suppuration, and peri-implant bone loss >4 mm. Peri-implant tissue biopsies were collected for analysis of the mRNA, RORγT, and FOXP3 expression levels. The samples were submitted to total RNA extraction, treatment with DNAse, and cDNA synthesis. Subsequently, real-time PCR reaction was performed to evaluate the levels of RORγT and FOXP3 gene expression to the reference gene. These were analyzed by the non-parametric Mann-Whitney method with a level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: Higher gene expression levels of the transcription factors RORγT and FOXP3 were detected in the tissues affected by peri-implantitis when compared with healthy tissues (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated the possible existence of a hybrid TH17-Treg profile, based on the gene expression of transcription factors inducing differentiation of these cells. Further studies must be designed to gain a better understanding of the immunological mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The levels of RORγT and FOXP3 transcription factors that were linked to cells with the FOXP3+RORγT+ phenotype could be used as a predictor of peri-implantitis progression.

Moderate levels of physical fitness maintain telomere length in non-senescent T CD8+ cells of aged men.

OBJECTIVES: Immunosenescence is an age-associated change characterized by a decreased immune response. Although physical activity has been described as fundamental for maintaining the quality of life, few studies have evaluated the effects of different levels of exercise on telomere length in aged populations. The present study aimed to analyze the effects of different levels of physical activity, classified by the Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) values, on the telomere length of memory Cluster of differentiation (CD) CD4+(CD45ROneg and CD45RO+), effector CD8+CD28neg, and CD8+CD28+ T cells in aged individuals. METHODS: Fifty-three healthy elderly men (aged 65-85 years) were included in this study. Their fitness level was classified according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for VO2 max (mL/kg/min). Blood samples were obtained from all participants to analyze the percentage of CD3, CD4, CD8, CD28+, naïve, and subpopulations of memory T cells by using flow cytometry. Furthermore, using the Flow-FISH methodology, the CD4+CD45RO+, CD4+CD45ROneg, CD8+CD28+, and CD8+CD28negT cell telomere lengths were measured. RESULTS: There was a greater proportion of effector memory T CD4+ cells and longer telomeres in CD8+CD28+ T cells in the moderate physical fitness group than in the other groups. There was a higher proportion of terminally differentiated memory effector T cells in the low physical fitness group. CONCLUSION: A moderate physical activity may positively influence the telomere shortening of CD28+CD8+T cells. However, additional studies are necessary to evaluate the importance of this finding with regard to immune function responses in older men.

Impact of hyperglycemia and treatment with metformin on ligature-induced bone loss, bone repair and expression of bone metabolism transcription factors.

This study evaluated the influence of type 2 diabetes mellitus on bone loss, bone repair and cytokine production in hyperglycemic rats, treated or not with metformin. The animals were distributed as follow: Non-Hyperglycemic (NH), Non Hyperglycemic with Ligature (NH-L), Treated Non Hyperglycemic (TNH), Treated Non Hyperglycemic with Ligature Treated (TNH-L), Hyperglycemic (H), Treated Hyperglycemic (TH), Hyperglycemic with Ligature (H-L), Treated Hyperglycemic with Ligature (TH-L). At 40th day after induction of hyperglycemia, the groups NH-L, TNH-L, H-L, TH-L received a ligature to induce periodontitis. On the 69th, the TNH, TNH-L, TH, TH-L groups received metformin until the end of the study. Bone repair was evaluated at histometric and the expression levels of Sox9, RunX2 and Osterix. Analysis of the ex-vivo expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-4, TGF-ß, IL-10, IL-6 and IL-17 were also evaluated. Metformin partially reverse induced bone loss in NH and H animals. Lower OPG/RANKL, increased OCN and TRAP expression were observed in hyperglycemic animals, and treatment with metformin partially reversed hyperglycemia on the OPG/RANKL, OPN and TRAP expression in the periodontitis. The expression of SOX9 and RunX2 were also decreased by hyperglycemia and metformin treatment. Increased ex vivo levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4, IL-10 and IL-17 was observed. Hyperglycemia promoted increased IL-10 levels compared to non-hyperglycemic ones. Treatment of NH with metformin was able to mediate increased levels of TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-17, whereas for H an increase of TNF-α and IL-17 was detected in the 24- or 48-hour after stimulation with LPS. Ligature was able to induce increased levels of TNF-α and IL-17 in both NH and H. This study revealed the negative impact of hyperglycemia and/or treatment with metformin in the bone repair via inhibition of transcription factors associated with osteoblastic differentiation.

Moderate levels of physical fitness maintain telomere length in non-senescent T CD8+ cells of aged men

OBJECTIVES: Immunosenescence is an age-associated change characterized by a decreased immune response. Although physical activity has been described as fundamental for maintaining the quality of life, few studies have evaluated the effects of different levels of exercise on telomere length in aged populations. The present study aimed to analyze the effects of different levels of physical activity, classified by the Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) values, on the telomere length of memory Cluster of differentiation (CD) CD4+(CD45ROneg and CD45RO+), effector CD8+CD28neg, and CD8+CD28+ T cells in aged individuals. METHODS: Fifty-three healthy elderly men (aged 65-85 years) were included in this study. Their fitness level was classified according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for VO2 max (mL/kg/min). Blood samples were obtained from all participants to analyze the percentage of CD3, CD4, CD8, CD28+, naïve, and subpopulations of memory T cells by using flow cytometry. Furthermore, using the Flow-FISH methodology, the CD4+CD45RO+, CD4+CD45ROneg, CD8+CD28+, and CD8+CD28negT cell telomere lengths were measured. RESULTS: There was a greater proportion of effector memory T CD4+ cells and longer telomeres in CD8+CD28+ T cells in the moderate physical fitness group than in the other groups. There was a higher proportion of terminally differentiated memory effector T cells in the low physical fitness group. CONCLUSION: A moderate physical activity may positively influence the telomere shortening of CD28+CD8+T cells. However, additional studies are necessary to evaluate the importance of this finding with regard to immune function responses in older men.

Chronic responses of physical and imagery training on parkinson's disease / Respostas crônicas do treinamento físico e de imagética na doença de parkinson / Respuestas crónicas del entrenamiento físico y de imagética en la enfermedad de parkinson

ABSTRACT Introduction Physical and motor imagery training is known to induce positive results in the quality of life of patients with neurodegenerative diseases. However, it is not known which effects are achievable when both types of training are combined. Objective This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combination of physical and imagery training on neurotrophin levels, the perception of body dimensions and activities of daily living (ADL) in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods Over an 8-week period, thirteen subjects underwent one hour of aerobic training in combination with twice-weekly imagery training (MIT). The following parameters were measured: brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) serum levels, level of dependence for activities of daily living (ADLs - Basic [ABDL] and Instrumental [AIDL]), perception of body dimensions and hand laterality test. Results Physical training combined with MIT increased serum BDNF levels in a non-statistically significant manner by 128.08% (88.81 ± 111.83 pg/ml versus 202.56 ± 183.43 pg/ml, p= 0.068). Delta BDNF showed a mean variation of 218.05 ± 547.55% (ES = 1.04). Perception of body dimensions and hand recognition reaction time both improved, but not in a non-statistically significant manner. ADLs (9.52% in ABDLs and 17.76% in AIDLs) improved in a statistically significant manner. Conclusion Despite the small number of subjects, study limitations, and the fact that most results were non-statistically significant, the results obtained here indicate clinical improvement associated with the neurotrophic action of BDNF on the perception of body dimensions and the functional capacity of Parkinson's disease subjects. Level of evidence II, Therapeutic studies-Investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução Sabe-se que o treinamento físico e de imagética motora induz a resultados positivos na qualidade de vida dos pacientes com doenças neurodegenerativas. Entretanto, não se sabe quais efeitos são possíveis de se obter quando ambos tipos de treinamento são combinados. Objetivo O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar os efeitos de uma combinação de treinamento físico e de imagética sobre os níveis neurotróficos, percepção das dimensões corporais e atividades da vida diária (AVD) em indivíduos com doença de Parkinson (DP). Métodos Durante um período de oito semanas, 13 indivíduos realizaram uma hora de treinamento aeróbico em combinação com um treinamento de imagética motora (MIT) duas vezes por semana. Foram mensurados os seguintes parâmetros: níveis séricos do fator neurotrófico derivado do cérebro (BDNF), nível de dependência para atividades de vida diária (AVD - Básico [ABDL] e instrumental [AIDL]), percepção das dimensões corporais e teste de lateralidade da mão. Resultados O treinamento físico combinado ao MIT aumentou os níveis séricos de BDNF de um modo não estatisticamente significativo em 128,08% (88,81 ± 111,83 pg/ml versus 202,56 ± 183,43 pg/ml, p = 0,068). O delta BDNF apresentou uma variação média de 218,05 ± 547,55% (ES = 1,04). A percepção das dimensões corporais e o tempo de reação para o reconhecimento da mão melhoraram, porém, não de um modo significativo estatisticamente. As AVDs (9,52% nas ABDL's e 17,76% nas AIDLs) melhoraram de um modo significativo estatisticamente. Conclusão Apesar do pequeno número de indivíduos, limitações do estudo e ao fato de que a maioria dos resultados não era estatisticamente significativo, os resultados aqui obtidos indicam uma melhora clínica associada à ação neurotrófica do BDNF na percepção das dimensões corporais e na capacidade funcional de indivíduos com doença de Parkinson. Nível de evidência II, Estudos terapêuticos-Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción Se sabe que el entrenamiento físico y de imagética motora induce a resultados positivos en la calidad de vida de los pacientes con enfermedades neurodegenerativas. Entretanto, no se sabe qué efectos son posibles de obtenerse cuando ambos tipos de entrenamiento son combinados. Objetivo El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los efectos de una combinación de entrenamiento físico y de imagética sobre los niveles neurotróficos, la percepción de las dimensiones corporales y las actividades de la vida diaria (AVD) en individuos con enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Métodos Durante un período de ocho semanas, 13 individuos realizaron una hora de entrenamiento aeróbico en combinación con un entrenamiento de imagética motora (MIT) dos veces por semana. Se midieron los siguientes parámetros: niveles séricos del factor neurotrófico derivado del cerebro (BDNF), nivel de dependencia para las actividades de la vida diaria (AVD - Básico [ABDL] e Instrumental [AIDL]), percepción de las dimensiones corporales y test de lateralidad de la mano. Resultados El entrenamiento físico combinado al MIT aumentó los niveles séricos de BDNF de un modo no estadísticamente significativo en 128,08% (88,81 ± 111,83 pg/ml versus 202,56 ± 183,43 pg/ml, p = 0,068). El delta BDNF mostró una variación promedio de 218,05 ± 547,55% (ES = 1,04). La percepción de las dimensiones corporales y el tiempo de reacción para el reconocimiento de la mano mejoraron, aunque no de un modo estadísticamente significativo. Las AVD (9,52% en las ABDL y 17,76% en AIDL) mejoraron de un modo estadísticamente significativo. Conclusión A pesar del pequeño número de sujetos, limitaciones del estudio y el hecho de que la mayoría de los resultados no era estadísticamente significativos, los resultados obtenidos aquí indican una mejora clínica asociada a la acción neurotrófica del BDNF en la percepción de las dimensiones corporales y la capacidad funcional de individuos con enfermedad de Parkinson. Nivel de evidencia II, Estudios terapéuticos-Investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Expression Levels of Semaphorins 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4D on Human Peri-implantitis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the gene expression levels of semaphorins 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4D in both healthy and diseased implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Subjects with peri-implantitis presented clinical attachment loss, probing depth ≥ 5 mm, bleeding on probing and/or suppuration, and radiographic bone loss > 4 mm. Peri-implant tissue biopsy specimens were sampled for analysis of the mRNA expression levels for semaphorins 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4D. A real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed, and the gene expression levels of semaphorins in relation to the housekeeping gene were analyzed by using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test (P < .05). RESULTS: Thirty-five subjects (16 men, 19 women; mean age: 54.12 ± 2.34 years) with implant-supported restorations, using screw-shaped dental implants with internal or external hexagon were enrolled in this study. Higher levels of semaphorins 3A and 4D were detected in the peri-implantitis compared with the healthy tissues (P = .0011 and P = .0404, respectively), whereas Sem4A levels were significantly higher in the control group (P < .0001). Differences between groups in the expression levels of Sem3B were not significant. CONCLUSION: Advanced peri-implantitis lesions showed higher levels of gene expression for Sem3A and Sem4D and lower levels of Sem4A in comparison to tissues obtained from a healthy dental implant.

Role of Metformin in Reversing the Negative Impact of Hyperglycemia on Bone Healing Around Implants Inserted in Type 2 Diabetic Rats.

PURPOSE: There is interest in establishing hypoglycemiant agents able to contain/revert the impact of diabetes mellitus on osseointegration. The purpose of this study was to assess the possible effect of metformin in reversing the negative effects of hyperglycemia on the healing of bone surrounding implants inserted in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rats (10 per group) were assigned to one of the following groups: DM group: type 2 diabetic rats deprived of metformin (M) treatment; MDM group: type 2 diabetic rats under M treatment (40 mg/kg/day, starting on the 15th day after implant placement); control group: nondiabetic rats without M treatment. At 30 days after streptozotocin injection, titanium implants were placed in tibiae. Animals were euthanized 30 days after implant surgery. Bone-to-implant contact (BIC), bone area (BA), and the number of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL)- and osteoprotegerin (OPG)-stained cells were assessed in cortical and medullary areas. RESULTS: The percentages of BIC and BA in the cortical bone were reduced in the DM and MDM groups compared with the control group (P < .05). The percentage of BA in the medullary region was reduced in the DM group compared with the control group (P < .05). The MDM group showed the greatest number of OPG-stained cells, while the DM group presented the greatest ratio of RANKL/OPG in the medullary area (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Metformin did not modulate the damaging effect of hyperglycemia on bone healing around implants at histometric levels, but increased the expression of OPG and decreased the RANKL/OPG ratio in the medullary area, yielding some molecular benefits in the osseointegration of implants under the hyperglycemic state.

Effects of metformin on bone healing around titanium implants inserted in non-diabetic rats.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of metformin on bone healing around titanium implants inserted in non-diabetic rats. METHODS: Twenty Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: control group (n = 10): rats without metformin treatment; MT group (n = 10): rats treated with metformin (40 mg/kg/day by gavage). At thirty days after implant placement, animals were euthanized. Histometric measurements of bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and bone area (BA), in addition to immunohistochemical analysis of the number of cells stained for RANKL and OPG, were assessed in the cortical and medullary areas around implants. RESULTS: The percentages of BIC and BA in the cortical bone were significantly lower in the MT group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the medullary bone around the implants inserted in the metformin-treated animals exhibited an increased number of RANKL-stained cells than that around the implants inserted in the control animals (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Metformin negatively affected osseointegration by reducing the percentages of BIC and BA and increasing the expression of RANKL around titanium implants inserted in non-diabetic rats.