Chemical characterization and antibacterial activities of Brazilian propolis extracts from Apis mellifera bees and stingless bees (Meliponini).

The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical composition and antibacterial activity of Brazilian propolis extracts from different types, concentrations, and extraction solvents and from different regions in Brazil. A total of 21 samples were analyzed, comprising 14 samples from Apis mellifera (12 green, 1 brown, and 1 red) and 7 samples from stingless bees (3 mandaçaia, 2 jataí, 1 hebora, and 1 tubuna). The analyses performed were dry extract, total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS). The antibacterial activity was performed by Determination of Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimal Bactericidal Concentration (MBC). The results showed that very low levels of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity decreased the antimicrobial activity of the propolis extracts from tubuna and jataí. However, there was no correlation between the increase in propolis concentration in the extract, and the increase in antimicrobial activity. The highest TPC and antioxidant activity was obtained for green propolis extract made with 70% raw propolis that presented similar antibacterial activity to the samples formulated with 30% or less raw propolis. The aqueous propolis extract showed lower antimicrobial activity compared to the alcoholic extracts, indicating that ethanol is a better solvent for extracting the active compounds from propolis. It was observed that the MIC (0.06 to 0.2 mg/mL) and MBC (0.2 to 0.5 mg/mL) values for Gram-negative bacteria were higher compared to Gram-positive bacteria (MIC 0.001-0.2 mg/mL, and the MBC 0.02-0.5 mg/mL). The propolis extracts that exhibited the highest antimicrobial activities were from stingless bees hebora from the Distrito Federal (DF) and mandaçaia from Santa Catarina, showing comparable efficacy to samples 5, 6, and 7, which were the green propolis from the DF. Hence, these products can be considered an excellent source of bioactive compounds with the potential for utilization in both the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Comparison of α and ß-acid isomerization in hops and beer using HPLC, confocal microscopy, spectrofluorimetry and chemical analysis of metabolites and essential oils in flowers of different hop cultivars produced in Brazil.

We used confocal microscopy and spectrofluorescence to characterize the emission spectra in hop flowers, to follow the isomerization processes in different hop preparations, and beers, to compare with HPLC extracted samples. Flowers of different hop cultivars produced in three regions of Brazil, were quantitated by HPLC and GC-MS. The fluorescence spectra showed two characteristic emission bands evaluated from different preparations. The isomerization process leads to a gradual decrease in fluorescence intensity as the reaction progresses. This demonstrates the valuable use of confocal microscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy for analysis of the correlation between bitter acid indices with fluorescence intensity and lifetime microscopy. Such techniques can be used directly in the flowers allowing rapid monitoring of the brewing process. Twenty-nine substances were characterized in the essential oils and some cultivars presented quantities of bitter acids and essential oil levels close to those expected for plants after more than three years of cultivation.

The use of green protic ionic liquids in the crystallization of isoniazid: Evaluation of physicochemical and biological properties of drug.

This study evaluated the synthesis of protic ionic liquids (PILs), 2-hydroxy ethylammonium formate (2-HEAF) and 2-hydroxy ethylammonium acetate (2-HEAA), and their applicability in the crystallization process of the active pharmaceutical ingredient isoniazid (INH) as anti-solvent. Isoniazid is an antibiotic used in the treatment of tuberculosis infections, being used as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Futhermore, this investigation was conducted in order to evaluate how these PILs can influence the habit, solubility, stability, and therapeutic efficiency of the obtained isoniazid crystals. The 2-HEAF and 2-HEAA PILs were easily formed in reactions between ethanolamine and carboxylic acids (formic or acetic acid), and they have no toxicity against Artemia salina. The PILs were able to crystallize isoniazid, influencing the crystal habit and size. The greatest variations in the hydrogen signals of the NH2 and NH groups of the amine and low variations in the chemical shifts of the hydrogens of the cation of the ethanolamine group from 2-HEAA and 2-HEAF indicate that PILs establish possibly weak interactions with INH. The obtained crystals were amorphous and showed higher solubility in water than standard INH. Moreover, these crystals showed therapeutic efficiency inantimycobacterial activity to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The INH:2-HEAF only degraded 5.1 % (w/w), however, INH:2-HEAA degraded 32.8 % (w/w) after 60 days in an accelerated atmosphere. Then, the 2-HEAA and 2-HEAF were able to crystallize isoniazid, being a new application for these PILs. The used PILs also influenced the characteristics of isoniazid crystals.

Estresse percebido e sofrimento psíquico em gestoresde saúde na pandemia da Covid-19 / Perceived stress and psychic suffering in healthmanagers in the Covid-19 pandemic

Objetivo: analisar o nível de estresse percebido e sofrimento psíquico em gestores de saúde na pandemia da Covid-19. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal com abordagem quantitativa. A coleta ocorreu de abril a setembro de 2021, com 40 gestores de serviço de saúde. Utilizou-se para a coleta de dados um instrumento para caracterização sociodemográfica e ocupacional e as escalas "Perceived Stress Scale-14" e "Self Reporting Questionnaire" para avaliação do estresse percebido e sofrimento psíquico. Os dados coletados foram analisados no Statistical Package for the Social Sciences versão 22.0. O presente estudo faz parte de um projeto intitulado "Trabalhadores dos Serviços de Saúde Frente à Pandemia de Covid-19", aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa sob CAAE número 35260620.9.0000.5231. Resultados: a maioria dos profissionais eram do sexo feminino (90%, N=36), casados (70%, N=28), com filhos (80%, N=32), com média de idade de 45 anos e com pós--graduação (47,5%, N=19). A média dos escores relacionados ao estresse percebido foi 31,13 pontos (DP=3,77) sendo o mínimo 24 e máximo de 42 pontos. Com relação ao sofrimento psíquico, (40%, N=16) os gestores apresentaram prováveis casos de transtornos. A prática de atividades físicas e de lazer (p<0,05) tem papel importante na diminuição do estresse percebido e do sofrimento psíquico. Conclusão: os gestores em saúde apresentaram, durante a pandemia, estresse e sofrimento psíquico, resultados esses que devem ser considerados para promoção de autocuidado aos gestores de saúde, enfatizando a necessidade da realização de atividades físicas e de lazer.

Objective: to analyze the level of perceived stress and psychological suffering in health managers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Method: descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. The collection took place from April to September 2021, with 40 health service managers. An instrument for socio-demographic and occupational characterization and the "Perceived Stress Scale-14" and "Self Reporting Questionnaire" scales were used for the assessment of perceived stress and psychic suffering. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22.0. The present study is part of a project entitled "Health Service Workers in the Face of the Covid-19 Pandemic", approved by the Research Ethics Committee under CAAE number 35260620.9.0000.5231. Results: most professionals were female (90%, N=36), married (70%, N=28), with children (80%, N=32), with a mean age of 45 years and with a postgraduate degree. -graduation (47.5%, N=19). The average score related to perceived stress was 31.13 points (SD=3.77), with a minimum of 24 and a maximum of 42 points. With regard to psychic suffering, (40%, N=16) the managers presented probable cases of disorders. The practice of physical and leisure activities (p<0.05) plays an important role in reducing perceived stress and psychological distress. Conclusion: health managers presented, during the pandemic, stress and psychic suffering, results that should be considered for promoting self-care to health managers, emphasizing the need to carry out physical and leisure activities.Keywords: Health manager; Occupational stress; Covid-19; Coronavirus infections.

Bioguided Fractionation of Phyllanthus spp.: Unveiling Anticancer Potential through Metabolomic Correlation and ADMETox Insights.

Cancer remains a significant global health concern, with mortality rates steadily rising and prompting an urgent search for effective treatments. This study focuses on the medicinal properties of plants from the Phyllanthus genus, specifically Phyllanthus amarus and Phyllanthus niruri, which have shown promise in traditional medicine. Through bioguided fractionation using preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), bioactive compounds were isolated and identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MSE) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Chemometric analyses such as principal component analysis (PCA) aided in understanding metabolite distribution. Biological assays demonstrated cytotoxic activities of specific fractions against cancer cell lines, notably the PhyN 4n fraction from P. niruri, which induced S-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HL60 cells. These findings underscore the anticancer potential of Phyllanthus species and lay the groundwork for future drug development efforts. The study's integration of advanced analytical techniques, chemometrics, and biological assays provides valuable insights for harnessing natural products in the fight against cancer.

Third stage of the kangaroo method: exclusive breastfeeding and growth of preterm and/or low birth weight newborns.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the rates of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and growth of preterm and/or low birth weight newborns during the third stage of the Kangaroo Method (TSKM), at discharge. METHODS: Retrospective study in a reference public maternity hospital between Jan/2014 and Dec/2017, including the preterm (less than 37 weeks) and/or low birth weight (less than 2500 g) newborn infants. Information was collected from medical records. Statistics analysis was done in SPSS software. RESULTS: 482 infants were included and followed up at the TSKM ambulatory. The average gestational age was 33 weeks (variation: 24-39 weeks) and birth weight, 1715g (variation: 455-2830 g). EBF occurred in 336 (70.1%) infants at hospital discharge, and in 291 (60.4%) at TSKM discharge. Each additional day of hospital stay increased the chance of infant formula (IF) use by 9.3% at hospital discharge and by 10.3% at TSKM discharge. Staying in the Kangaroo Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit (KNICU) favored EBF at hospital discharge and TSKM discharge (p<0.001). Not performing the kangaroo position increased the chance formula administration to the newborn infant at hospital discharge by 11%. Weight gain and head circumference growth were higher in infants using formula (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The length of hospital stay and not performing the kangaroo position favored the use of infant formula at hospital and TSKM discharge. Staying in the KNICU favored exclusive breastfeeding at hospital and TSKM discharge. Weight gain and HC growth were higher in newborns receiving infant formula.

Prevalence of oral manifestations of leprosy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of oral manifestations of leprosy. STUDY DESIGN: This systematic review with meta-analysis was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and included cross-sectional studies by 2 independent reviewers in 2 phases, who reported bacilloscopic-confirmed oral manifestations of leprosy. Studies were selected based on predetermined eligibility criteria. Searches in 6 main databases were performed, such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS/BVS, and LIVIVO, in addition to the gray literature. The risk of bias was assessed using the JBI Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies, and the quantitative synthesis of the data was performed using the Jamovi 2.3 application. RESULTS: Ten studies were included, and the meta-analysis was performed with 917 patients with different types of leprosy. The overall prevalence of oral alterations was 6.0% (95% IC, 0.02-0.11; I2 = 97.01%; Q = 75.56), with plaques (27.2%), infiltrations (18.1%), and macules (15.1%) being the most prevalent fundamental lesions, especially in multibacillary patients. CONCLUSIONS: Even though there is no oral pathognomonic lesion of leprosy, this infectious disease can manifest in oral tissues in different ways, depending mainly on the leprosy type and stage of treatment.

Bovine serum albumin nanoparticles containing Poly (I:C) can enhance the neutralizing antibody response induced by envelope protein of Orthoflavivirus zikaense.

Since the Orthoflavivirus zikaense (ZIKV) has been considered a risk for Zika congenital syndrome development, developing a safe and effective vaccine has become a high priority. Numerous research groups have developed strategies to prevent ZIKV infection and have identified the domain III of the ZIKV envelope protein (zEDIII) as a promising target. Subunit antigens are often poorly immunogenic, necessitating the use of adjuvants and/or delivery systems to induce optimal immune responses. The subject of nanotechnology has substantial expansion in recent years in terms of research and applications. Nanoparticles could be used as drug delivery systems and to increase the immunogenicity and stability of a given antigen. This work aims to characterize and validate the potential of a vaccine formulation composed of domain zEDIII and bovine serum albumin nanoparticles containing polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (NPPI). NPPI were uptake in vitro by immature bone marrow dendritic cells and histological analysis of the skin of mice treated with NPPI showed an increase in cellularity. Immunization assay showed that mice immunized with zEDIII in the presence of NPPI produced neutralizing antibodies. Through the passive transfer of sera from immunized mice to ZIKV-infected neonatal mice, it was demonstrated that these antibodies provide protection, mitigating weight loss, clinical or neurological signs induced by infection, and significantly increased survival rates. Protection was further substantiated by the reduction in the number of viable infectious ZIKV, as well as a decrease in inflammatory cytokines and tissue alterations in the brains of infected mice. Taken together, data presented in this study shows that NPPI + zEDIII is a promising vaccine candidate for ZIKV.

Synthesis, structural, characterization, antibacterial and antibiotic modifying activity, ADMET study, molecular docking and dynamics of chalcone (E)-1-(4-aminophenyl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one in strains of Staphylococcus aureus carrying NorA and MepA efflux pumps.

Chalcones have an open chain flavonoid structure that can be obtained from natural sources or by synthesis and are widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and tea. They have a simple and easy to handle structure due to the α-ß-unsaturated bridge responsible for most biological activities. The facility to synthesize chalcones combined with its efficient in combating serious bacterial infections make these compounds important agents in the fight against microorganisms. In this work, the chalcone (E)-1-(4-aminophenyl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (HDZPNB) was characterized by spectroscopy and electronic methods. In addition, microbiological tests were performed to investigate the modulator potential and efflux pump inhibition on S. aureus multi-resistant strains. The modulating effect of HDZPNB chalcone in association with the antibiotic norfloxacin, on the resistance of the S. aureus 1199 strain, resulted in increase the MIC. In addition, when HDZPNB was associated with ethidium bromide (EB), it caused an increase in the MIC value, thus not inhibiting the efflux pump. For the strain of S. aureus 1199B, carrying the NorA pump, the HDZPNB associated with norfloxacin showed no modulatory, and when the chalcone was used in association with EB, it had no inhibitory effect on the efflux pump. For the tested strain of S. aureus K2068, which carries the MepA pump, it can be observed that the chalcone together the antibiotic resulted in an increase the MIC. On the other hand, when chalcone was used in association with EB, it caused a decrease in bromide MIC, equal to the reduction caused by standard inhibitors. Thus, these results indicate that the HDZPNB could also act as an inhibitor of the S. aureus gene overexpressing pump MepA. The molecular docking reveals that chalcone has a good binding energies -7.9 for HDZPNB/MepA complexes, molecular dynamics simulations showed that Chalcone/MetA complexes showed good stability of the structure in an aqueous solution, and ADMET study showed that the chalcone has a good oral bioavailability, high passive permeability, low risk of efflux, low clearance rate and low toxic risk by ingestion. The microbiological tests show that the chalcone can be used as a possible inhibitor of the Mep A efflux pump.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Third stage of the kangaroo method: exclusive breastfeeding and growth of preterm and/or low birth weight newborns / Terceira etapa do método canguru: aleitamento materno exclusivo e crescimento de recém-nascidos pré-termo e/ou de baixo peso ao nascer

Objective: To evaluate the rates of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and growth of preterm and/or low birth weight newborns during the third stage of the Kangaroo Method (TSKM), at discharge. Methods: Retrospective study in a reference public maternity hospital between Jan/2014 and Dec/2017, including the preterm (less than 37 weeks) and/or low birth weight (less than 2500 g) newborn infants. Information was collected from medical records. Statistics analysis was done in SPSS software. Results: 482 infants were included and followed up at the TSKM ambulatory. The average gestational age was 33 weeks (variation: 24-39 weeks) and birth weight, 1715g (variation: 455-2830 g). EBF occurred in 336 (70.1%) infants at hospital discharge, and in 291 (60.4%) at TSKM discharge. Each additional day of hospital stay increased the chance of infant formula (IF) use by 9.3% at hospital discharge and by 10.3% at TSKM discharge. Staying in the Kangaroo Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit (KNICU) favored EBF at hospital discharge and TSKM discharge (p<0.001). Not performing the kangaroo position increased the chance formula administration to the newborn infant at hospital discharge by 11%. Weight gain and head circumference growth were higher in infants using formula (p<0.001). Conclusions: The length of hospital stay and not performing the kangaroo position favored the use of infant formula at hospital and TSKM discharge. Staying in the KNICU favored exclusive breastfeeding at hospital and TSKM discharge. Weight gain and HC growth were higher in newborns receiving infant formula.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as taxas de aleitamento materno exclusivo e o crescimento dos recém-nascidos (RN) pré-termo e/ou de baixo peso ao nascer à alta da terceira etapa do Método Canguru (TEMC). Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo realizado em maternidade pública de referência entre janeiro/2014 e dezembro/2017, que incluiu os RN pré-termo (<37 semanas) e/ou de baixo peso (<2.500 g). As informações foram coletadas de prontuários médicos e analisadas pelo programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Resultados: Foram seguidos 482 RN, com mediana da idade gestacional de 33 semanas (variação: 24-39 sem) e peso ao nascer 1.715 g (variação: 455-2.830 g). O aleitamento materno exclusivo (AME) ocorreu em 336 (70,1%) RN à alta hospitalar e em 291 (60,4%) à alta da TEMC. Cada dia a mais de permanência hospitalar aumentou a chance do uso de fórmula infantil em 9,3% à alta hospitalar e em 10,3% à alta da TEMC. Permanecer na Unidade de Cuidados Intermediários Canguru (UCINCA) favoreceu o AME à alta hospitalar e da TEMC (p<0,001). Não realizar a Posição Canguru aumentou em 11% a chance de o RN utilizar fórmula infantil à alta hospitalar. O ganho de peso e crescimento do perímetro cefálico foram maiores nos RN em uso de fórmula infantil (p<0,001). Conclusões: O tempo de permanência hospitalar e a não realização da Posição Canguru favoreceram o uso de fórmula infantil à alta hospitalar e da TEMC. Permanecer na UCINCA favoreceu o AME à alta hospitalar e da TEMC. O ganho de peso e crescimento do PC foram maiores nos RN em uso de fórmula infantil.

Exclusive breastfeeding intention among pregnant women and associated variables: a cross-sectional study in a Brazilian community / Intenção de amamentar entre gestantes e variáveis associadas: estudo transversal em uma comunidade brasileira

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) intention and associated variables among women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Methods: The data were collected with a questionnaire for the pregnant women (n=653), from December/2018 to November/2019. They answered the Infant Feeding Intentions (IFI) scale, translated and adapted to Brazilian Portuguese, and a questionnaire on sociodemographic, biological, family, pregnancy, breastfeeding, health care, and habits variables. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed with a 5% significance level, following a multilevel hierarchical model that estimated the association between the dependent and independent variables. The outcome EBF intention measured by the IFI score was dichotomized by the median (<16 or =16). Results: Mean±standard deviation score for the IFI scale was 14.4±2.6 (score 0: very strong intention to not breastfeed at all; score 16: very strong EBF intention up to six months). The results from the regression analysis showed that pregnant women who had no intention to bottle feed (OR=4.33; 95%CI 2.79-6.72) or did not know (OR=1.85; 95%CI 1.21-2.82), those who planned the pregnancy (OR=1.52; 95%CI 1.09-2.12), those who believed they would have help to care for the baby (OR=3.60; 95%CI 1.51-8.56) or did not know (OR=3.97; 95%CI 1.26-12.51), and those who reported knowing the World Health Organization recommendations on breastfeeding (OR=1.73; 95%CI 1.13-2.64) were more likely to show a very strong EBF intention. Conclusions: Pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy presented a strong EBF intention. The higher EBF intention score was significantly associated with the structural, setting, and individual determinants.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a intenção materna de amamentar exclusivamente (IMA) e variáveis associadas entre as mulheres no terceiro trimestre de gravidez. Métodos: A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevista e questionário semiestruturado e autoadministrado, entre dezembro/2018 e novembro/2019. As gestantes (n=653) responderam à escala Infant Feeding Intentions (IFI) testada, traduzida e adaptada para o português do Brasil e ao questionário contendo perguntas sobre variáveis sociodemográficas, biológicas e familiares, bem como relacionadas à gestação, ao aleitamento materno, à assistência à saúde e a hábitos. Foram realizadas análises estatísticas descritivas e de regressão logística múltipla hierarquizada, com nível de significância de 5%, para estimar a associação entre as variáveis independentes e o desfecho. A IMA, medida pela escala IFI, foi dicotomizada pela mediana (<16 ou =16). Resultados: A pontuação média±desvio padrão para a escala IFI foi de 14,4±2,6. Os resultados da análise de regressão mostraram que as gestantes que não tinham intenção de oferecer mamadeira (OR=4,33; IC95% 2,79-6,72) ou não sabiam (OR=1,85; IC95% 1,21-2,82), que planejaram a gestação (OR=1,52; IC95% 1,09-2,12), aquelas que acreditavam que teriam ajuda nos cuidados com o bebê (OR=3,60; IC95% 1,51-8,56) ou que não sabiam (OR=3,97; IC95% 1,26-12,51), bem como aquelas que relataram conhecer as recomendações da Organização Mundial de Saúde sobre amamentação (OR=1,73; IC95% 1.13-2.64) tinham mais chances de mostrar uma IMA muito forte. Conclusões: As gestantes no terceiro trimestre de gestação apresentaram forte IMA. A maior IMA esteve significativamente associada aos determinantes estruturais, contextuais e individuais.

Gravidade dos sintomas da covid-19 e qualidade de vida na covid longa: qual a relação em adultos e idosos? / Severity of covid-19 symptoms and quality of life in long covid: what is the relationship between adults and the elderly? / Gravedad de los síntomas de covid-19 y calidad de vida en long covid: ¿cuál es la relación entre adultos y ancianos?

Avaliar a relação entre gravidade dos sintomas da Covid-19 e qualidade de vida na Covid Longa em adultos e idosos. Trata-se de estudo transversal, prospectivo e multicêntrico, realizado com indivíduos com idade superior á 18 anos com Covid Longa, de ambos os sexos, acompanhados nas Clínicas Escolas da Universidade Paulista ­ UNIP. Foi aplicado uma ficha de avaliação, no qual foram coletadas informações como, dados pessoais, história clínica da Covid-19, e manejos da doença em relação a necessidade de oxigenoterapia, ventilação mecânica não invasiva (VNI) e invasiva (VM) e traqueostomia (TQT), bem como o questionário SF36 versão Brasileira. A pesquisa foi submetida e aprovada pelo CEP da Universidade Paulista ­ UNIP, parecer 4.894.652. Os adultos e idosos que foram internados tiveram pior qualidade de vida nos domínios capacidade funcional, vitalidade e saúde mental. Aqueles que utilizaram oxigenoterapia, VM e TQT, tiveram maior acometimento no domínio saúde mental e os indivíduos que utilizaram a VNI, tiveram pior pontuação no domínio capacidade funcional. Conclui-se que adultos e idosos com Covid Longa apresentaram pior qualidade de vida à longo prazo, sobretudo naqueles com maior gravidade dos sintomas da Covid-19, ou seja, que necessitaram de internação, oxigenoterapia, VNI, VM e traqueostomia.

To evaluate the relationship between the severity of Covid-19 symptoms and quality of life adults and elderly with Long Covid in. This is a cross-sectional, prospective and multicenter study, carried out with individuals aged over 18 years with Long Covid, of both gender, followed at the Clinic School of Universidade Paulista - UNIP. Infor-mations such as personal data, clinical history of Covid-19, and disease management in relation to used of oxygen therapy, non-invasive (NIV) and invasive mechanical ventila-tion and tracheostomy was collected. SF36 questionnaire version Brazilian was aplied to assess quality of life . Adults and elderly people who were hospitalized had a worse quality of life in functional capacity, vitality and mental health domains. Furthermore, those who used oxygen therapy, intubation and tracheostomy, had worse mental health. The individuals who used NIV had worse scores in domain capacity works. It is con-cluded that adults and elderly people with Long Covid had a worse quality of life in the long term, especially in those with more severe symptoms of Covid-19, that is, those who required hospitalization, oxygen therapy, invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation and tracheostomy.

Relacionar la gravedad de los síntomas de Covid-19 y la calidad de vida en adultos y ancianos con Largo Covid. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio transversal, prospectivo y multicéntrico, realizado con individuos mayores de 18 años con Largo Covid, de ambos sexos, seguidos en las Clínicas Escolas de la Universidade Paulista - UNIP. Se aplicó un formulario de evaluación, en el cual se recolectó información como datos personales, antecedentes clínicos de Covid-19 y manejo de la enfermedad en relación a la necesidad de oxigenoterapia, ventilación mecánica no invasiva e invasiva y traqueotomía, así como la Cuestionario SF36 versión brasileña. Resultados: Los adultos y ancianos hospitalizados tenían peor calidad de vida en los dominios capacidad funcional, vitalidad y salud mental. De los cuales usaban oxigenoterapia, intubación y traqueotomía, tenían peor salud mental. Los individuos que usaban ventilación mecánica no invasiva tenían peores puntuaciones en el domínio del la capacidad funcional. Conclusión: Se concluye que los adultos y ancianos con Covid Largo tuvieron una peor calidad de vida a largo plazo, especialmente en aquellos con síntomas más severos de Covid-19, es decir, aquellos que requirieron hospitalización, oxigenoterapia, invasiva y no invasiva. ventilación mecánica y traqueotomía.

Cross-cultural adaptation of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale Short Form (BSES-SF) modified for preterm mothers in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: to conduct a cross-cultural adaptation of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF) for mothers of ill and/or preterm infants among Portuguese-speaking mothers in Brazil. METHODS: a methodological study was completed, including the translation of the tool, synthesis of translations, review by experts, synthesis, reassessment of experts, back-translation, pre-test, and validation of the content. The study involved 19 participants, including a translator and experts. In addition, 18 mothers from the target population were included in the pre-test. RESULTS: the equivalences of the opinion obtained by the committee of experts were semantic (85%), idiom (89%), cultural (86%), and conceptual (94%). The content validation coefficient (CVC) on the scale was 0.93 for clarity and understanding; 0.89 for practical relevance; 0.92 for relevance; and the average overall CVC was 0.91. CONCLUSIONS: the scale was translated and adapted to the Brazilian Portuguese language, which maintained the equivalences and confirmed the content validity.

Color stability and surface roughness of resin-ceramics with different surface treatments: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Surface treatments for resin-ceramics have been developed to obtain a smooth surface and improve color stability. However, a consensus on the best treatment for these materials is lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the color stability and roughness of glass-ceramics versus resin-ceramics with different surface treatments. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the study was registered in the open science framework (OSF) for in vitro studies. The population, intervention, control, and outcome (PICO) question was "Is there a difference in color stability and roughness between resin-ceramic vs vitreous ceramics in different surface treatment protocols?" A literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest databases up to January 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute's critical assessment guidelines for quasi-experimental studies were used for quality assessment. The meta-analysis was based on the inverse variance (IV) method (α=.05). RESULTS: A total of 18 laboratory studies were published between 2015 and 2022, with a total of 2160 specimens, all of which were analyzed qualitatively. The meta-analysis indicated significantly less optical alteration for lithium disilicate ceramics (P<.01; MD: 2.69; 95% CI: 2.00-3.39; I²=89%, P<.01), even when compared with resin-ceramics with polish or sealants (P<.01; MD: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.59-3.30; I²=87%, P<.01) and (P<.01; MD: 3.24; 95% CI: 2.02-4.47; I²=89%, P<.01), while there was no significant difference in surface roughness (P=.08; MD: -0.71; CI 95%: -1.52 to 0.09; I²=87%, P<.01) (P=.33; MD: -0.31; CI 95%: -0.94 to 0.32; I²=87%, P<.01), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Resin-ceramics that have been polished or treated with sealants have lower color stability than glazed glass-ceramics; however, they are similar in terms of surface roughness.

Crucial role of carbon monoxide as a regulator of diarrhea caused by cholera toxin: Evidence of direct interaction with toxin.

The present study evaluated the role of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1)/carbon monoxide (CO) pathway in the cholera toxin-induced diarrhea and its possible action mechanism. The pharmacological modulation with CORM-2 (a CO donor) or Hemin (a HO-1 inducer) decreased the intestinal fluid secretion and Cl- efflux, altered by cholera toxin. In contrast, ZnPP (a HO-1 inhibitor) reversed the antisecretory effect of Hemin and potentiated cholera toxin-induced intestinal secretion. Moreover, CORM-2 also prevented the alteration of intestinal epithelial architecture and local vascular permeability promoted by cholera toxin. The intestinal absorption was not altered by any of the pharmacological modulators. Cholera toxin inoculation also increased HO-1 immunoreactivity and bilirubin levels, a possible protective physiological response. Finally, using fluorometric technique, ELISA assay and molecular docking simulations, we show evidence that CO directly interacts with cholera toxin, forming a complex that affects its binding to GM1 receptor, which help explain the antisecretory effect. Thus, CO is an essential molecule for protection against choleric diarrhea and suggests its use as a possible therapeutic tool.

Polyetheretherketone materials for removable partial denture frameworks: an integrative review.

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) resin is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer that has been introduced as a possible candidate to replace metallic components in dental prostheses. The objective of this integrative review was to compare, through analysis of studies in the literature, the mechanical performance of removable partial denture frameworks and clasps manufactured with PEEK with the performance of cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) frameworks and clasps. The guiding question was, "Does the use of PEEK as a substitute for Co-Cr alloys for the construction of removable partial denture frameworks result in better mechanical properties?" The PubMed/ MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO databases were searched for articles published through October 2021. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Quasi-Experimental Studies was used to assess the methodologic quality of the selected in vitro studies. A total of 208 articles were identified. After the exclusion of duplicates and articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 7 studies- -4 in vitro and 3 three-dimensional finite element analyses- -published between 2012 and 2021 were included in the integrative review. The appraisal checklist revealed that the reviewed studies had a low risk of bias and high methodologic quality. The results of the review showed that PEEK alloys have adequate mechanical properties for use in clasps and removable partial denture frameworks, but Co-Cr alloys exhibit better mechanical properties and are more suitable in most circumstances.

Cytotoxic effect of crotoxin on cancer cells and its antitumoral effects correlated to tumor microenvironment: A review.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and despite the effort of standard treatments, the search for new tools against this disease is necessary. Importantly, it is known that the tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in tumor initiation, progression, and response to therapies. Therefore, studies of potential drugs that act on these components are as critical as studies regarding antiproliferative substances. Through the years, studies of several natural products, including animal toxins, have been conducted to guide the development of medical compounds. In this review, we present the remarkable antitumor activities of crotoxin, a toxin from the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus, highlighting its effects on cancer cells and in the modulation of relevant elements in the tumor microenvironment as well as the clinical trials conducted with this compound. In summary, crotoxin acts through several mechanisms of action, such as activation of apoptosis, induction of cell cycle arrest, inhibition of metastasis, and decrease of tumor growth, in different tumor types. Crotoxin also modulates tumor-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, which contribute to its antitumoral effects. In addition, preliminary clinical studies confirm the promising results of crotoxin and support its potential future use as an anticancer drug.

Accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography in determining gingival thickness: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for determining gingival thickness. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Searches were undertaken in PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Web of Science, Scopus, LIVIVO, and gray literature (Google Scholar and ProQuest) for studies considered eligible according to the following criteria: cross-sectional observational studies, which compared CBCT accuracy with that of transgingival probing when determining gingival thickness, in adult patients with good periodontal health. No language or time restrictions were applied in this systematic review. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for analytical cross-sectional studies. RESULTS: Six articles were included for qualitative synthesis, involving a pooled sample of 132 patients with a mean age of 29 years (18-51 years). Of these 6 studies, 5 were eligible for quantitative analysis. The meta-analysis showed no statistically significant difference between CBCT and transgingival probing measures of gingival tissue (mean difference of 0.10 (95% CI-0.17-0.38). No significant level of heterogeneity was detected (Tau2-P = 0.0662; I2 = 0%; H2-P = 1.000; Q-P = 1.134). According to the GRADE criterion, confidence in the cumulative evidence was considered low. CONCLUSIONS: CBCT is an accurate method for determining gingival tissue thickness, comparable to the reference standard (transgingival probing). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: CBCT could be considered for gingival thickness measurement when bone thickness is also needed, and thereby aid in the assessment of gingival biotype without the discomfort and anesthesia needed in transgingival probing. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This protocol was registered at the PROSPERO database (International Prospective Register of Systematic Review) under registration number CRD42022326970. Available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022326970 .

Influence of the technical parameters of CBCT image acquisition on vertical root fracture diagnosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the influence of image acquisition parameters (voxel, FOV, kVp, mA) on the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in detecting vertical root fracture (VRF). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Searches were performed in 6 main databases and the gray literature, without restrictions of language or date. Observational clinical studies (OCS) and in vitro-extracted teeth (IV) studies were considered eligible for inclusion when investigating the accuracy (sensitivity, specificity) of CBCT in detecting VRF in human teeth. The risk of bias was assessed using QUADAS-2, and a meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager v5.4 software and Jamovi software v1.6. RESULTS: A total of 60 out of 132 articles was included after fulfilling the eligibility criteria. Of these, 54 were IV studies while 6 were OCS. In the IV studies, it was seen that smaller FOV sizes tended to present higher accuracy values. The meta-analysis of the 6 OCS showed that the overall sensitivity and specificity values for 0.08 mm and 0.1 mm voxels were greater (0.84 and 0.79, respectively) than the sensitivity and specificity values for 0.125 mm and 0.2 mm voxels (0.70 and 0.55, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the uncertain risk of bias found for the IV and OCS studies, smaller voxel and FOV sizes seem to provide more accurate VRF detection values when using CBCT. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This information is crucial for supporting the clinician when prescribing CBCT in cases of a clinical suspicion of VRF, and contributes to the personalization of the CBCT prescription, thereby ensuring greater accuracy in the VRF diagnosis. Registration This protocol was registered at the PROSPERO database (International Prospective Register of Systematic Review) under registration number CRD42020210118.