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.

Evaluation of antifungal activity, mechanisms of action and toxicological profile of the synthetic amide 2-chloro-N-phenylacetamide.

Aspergillus niger causes infections such as otitis and pulmonary aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. Treatment involves voriconazole or amphotericin B, and due to the increase in fungal resistance, the search for new compounds with antifungal activity has intensified. In the development of new drugs, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assays are important, as they allow predicting possible damage that a molecule can cause, and in silico studies predict the pharmacokinetic properties. The aim of this study was to verify the antifungal activity and the mechanism of action of the synthetic amide 2-chloro-N-phenylacetamide against Aspergillus niger strains and toxicity. 2-Chloro-N-phenylacetamide showed antifungal activity against different strains of Aspergillus niger with minimum inhibitory concentrations between 32 and 256 µg/mL and minimum fungicides between 64 and 1024 µg/mL. The minimum inhibitory concentration of 2-chloro-N-phenylacetamide also inhibited conidia germination. When associated with amphotericin B or voriconazole, 2-chloro-N-phenylacetamide had antagonistic effects. Interaction with ergosterol in the plasma membrane is the probable mechanism of action.2-Chloro-N-phenylacetamide has favorable physicochemical parameters, good oral bioavailability and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, crosses the blood-brain barrier and inhibits CYP1A2. At concentrations of 50 to 500 µg/mL, it has little hemolytic effect and a protective effect for type A and O red blood cells, and in the cells of the oral mucosa it promotes little genotoxic change. It is concluded that 2-chloro-N-phenylacetamide has promising antifungal potential, favorable pharmacokinetic profile for oral administration and low cytotoxic and genotoxic potential, being a promising candidate for in vivo toxicity studies.

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.

Obesity influences the development of bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis in Wistar rats.

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is characterized by bone exposure for more than eight weeks in patients who have used or been treated with antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drugs, without a history of radiation therapy or metastatic diseases in the jaws. Obesity is associated with changes in periodontal tissues and oral microbiota that are linked to bone alterations. This study aimed to analyze the influence of obesity on the development of bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis. The experiment randomly and simply divided 24 male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) into four groups: healthy, with osteonecrosis, obese, and obese with osteonecrosis (n=6 per group). Osteonecrosis was induced through weekly intraperitoneal injection for eight weeks at a dose of 250 µg/kg of zoledronic acid in a 4 mg/5 mL solution, combined with trauma (exodontia). Obesity was induced through a high glycaemic index diet. Each group was qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated regarding the development of models and pathological anatomy of the lesions. The results were expressed in mean percentage and standard deviation and statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post-hoc test, with a significance level of 5% (p<0.05) to establish differences found between the groups. Animals in the osteonecrosis group and the obese with osteonecrosis group presented larger necrosis areas (averages: 172.83±18,19 µm2 and 290.33±15,77 µm2, respectively) (p<0,0001). Bone sequestration, hepatic steatosis, and increased adipocyte size were observed in the obese group (average: 97.75±1.91 µm2) and in the obese with osteonecrosis group (average: 98.41±1.56 µm2), indicating greater tissue damage in these groups (p<0,0001). All parameters analyzed (through histological, morphometric, and murinometric analyses) increased for the obese and obese with osteonecrosis groups, suggesting a possible influence of obesity on the results. However, further studies are needed to confirm the role of obesity in the possible exacerbation of osteonecrosis and understand the underlying mechanisms.

Saberes-fazeres feministas decoloniais na universidade: contribuições subjetivas, epistêmicas e políticas de intelectuais negras / Decolonial feminist know-how at the university: subjective, epistemic and political contributions by black intellectuals / El saber hacer feminista decolonial en la universidad: aportes subjetivos, epistémicos y políticos de intelectuales negras

Resumo Esta pesquisa intencionou compreender como, a partir dos relatos narrativos (auto)biográficos de três docentes negras do ensino superior público, implodem-se saberes e fazeres que decolonizam o conhecimento, a ciência e a sociedade no âmbito da UFMG. Tomou-se a experiência dessas sujeitas como analisadores das inúmeras contradições que se apresentam em uma universidade pública de histórico moderno/colonial. O que tem sido capaz de movimentar rupturas epistêmicas e políticas na reinvenção de um novo mundo que já se mostra possível apesar das armadilhas da colonialidade. Nessa direção, as estratégias de combate à colonização do ser, do saber e da sociedade são um processo constante de mobilizações e alterações dessas experiências. É, apenas e unicamente, por meio dessa ferida aberta, que essas intelectuais inventam outros horizontes na produção do conhecimento, da ciência e da própria sociedade em sua versão mais justa rumo à experiência-ciência feminista, antirracista e decolonial.

Resumen Esta investigación pretendió comprender cómo, a partir de los relatos (auto)biográficos de tres profesores negros de educación superior pública, se implosionan saberes y acciones que descolonizan el saber, la ciencia y la sociedad en el ámbito de la UFMG. Se tomó la experiencia de estos sujetos como analizadores de las innumerables contradicciones que se presentan en una universidad pública de historia moderna/colonial. Lo que ha podido mover rupturas epistémicas y políticas en la reinvención de un mundo nuevo que ya es posible a pesar de las trampas de la colonialidad. En esa dirección, las estrategias para combatir la colonización del ser, el saber y la sociedad son un proceso constante de movilización y alteración de estas experiencias. Es, única y exclusivamente, a través de esta herida abierta, que estos intelectuales inventan otros caminos en la producción del conocimiento, la ciencia y la sociedad misma en su versión más justa hacia la experiencia-ciencia feminista, antirracista y decolonial.

Abstract This research intended to understand how knowings and doings that decolonize knowledge, science and society in the scope of the UFMG are imploded, from the (auto)biographical narrative reports of three black teachers of public higher education. The experience of these teachers was taken as analyzers of the innumerable contradictions that appear in a public university of modern/colonial history. This has been able to move epistemic and political ruptures in the reinvention of a new world that is already possible despite the traps of coloniality. In this direction, the strategies to combat the colonization of the being, of knowledge and of society are a constant process of mobilization and alteration of these experiences. Only and solely, it is through this open wound that these intellectuals invent other paths in the production of knowledge, science and society itself in its fairest version towards feminist, anti-racist and decolonial experience-science.

Obesity influences the development of bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis in Wistar rats

Abstract Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is characterized by bone exposure for more than eight weeks in patients who have used or been treated with antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drugs, without a history of radiation therapy or metastatic diseases in the jaws. Obesity is associated with changes in periodontal tissues and oral microbiota that are linked to bone alterations. This study aimed to analyze the influence of obesity on the development of bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis. The experiment randomly and simply divided 24 male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) into four groups: healthy, with osteonecrosis, obese, and obese with osteonecrosis (n=6 per group). Osteonecrosis was induced through weekly intraperitoneal injection for eight weeks at a dose of 250 µg/kg of zoledronic acid in a 4 mg/5 mL solution, combined with trauma (exodontia). Obesity was induced through a high glycaemic index diet. Each group was qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated regarding the development of models and pathological anatomy of the lesions. The results were expressed in mean percentage and standard deviation and statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post-hoc test, with a significance level of 5% (p<0.05) to establish differences found between the groups. Animals in the osteonecrosis group and the obese with osteonecrosis group presented larger necrosis areas (averages: 172.83±18,19 µm2 and 290.33±15,77 µm2, respectively) (p<0,0001). Bone sequestration, hepatic steatosis, and increased adipocyte size were observed in the obese group (average: 97.75±1.91 µm2) and in the obese with osteonecrosis group (average: 98.41±1.56 µm2), indicating greater tissue damage in these groups (p<0,0001). All parameters analyzed (through histological, morphometric, and murinometric analyses) increased for the obese and obese with osteonecrosis groups, suggesting a possible influence of obesity on the results. However, further studies are needed to confirm the role of obesity in the possible exacerbation of osteonecrosis and understand the underlying mechanisms.

In vitro antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of Anacardium occidentale L. extracts and their toxicity on PBMCs and zebrafish embryos.

This study evaluated the in vitro antimicrobial and immunomodulatory action of crude extracts from Anacardium occidentale L. (cashew tree) leaves and bark, and to determine their toxicity to peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and to zebrafish embryos and larvae. Chemical analysis of extracts was performed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR). The antibacterial activity was evaluated against selected bacteria strains by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Cytotoxicity of the extracts was assessed using resazurin method, while the effect on production of ROS by PMN leukocytes was measured by luminol. Embryotoxicity to zebrafish was assessed using the fish embryo acute toxicity test (FET) and quantification of toxicity marker enzymes (AChE, LDH, and GST). 1H-NMR results showed anacardic acid as the main component of the extracts. All bacterial species tested were sensitive to the extracts, with MICs ranging from 312.5 to 10,000 µg/mL. Streptococcus mutans and Escherichia coli were the most susceptible species. The extracts promoted cell viability above 75% at concentrations from 1.25 to 80 µg/mL. Both extracts reduced zymosan-induced ROS (p < 0.05) at concentrations of 1, 8, and 80 µg/mL compared to the control. In vivo, there were embryotoxic effects in zebrafish embryos exposed to both extracts through the presence of lethal and sublethal endpoints. The samples also acted by inhibiting the activities of biomarker enzymes. The A. occidentale L. bark and leaf extracts showed antimicrobial potential and modulated ROS production in vitro, but these also showed embryotoxic effects to zebrafish.

Psicologia, Racismo e Antirracismo: segunda parte / Psicología, racismo y antirracismo: segunda parte / Psychology, Racism and Anti-racism: second part

Apresentamos os artigos publicados no dossiê Psicologia, Racismo e Antirracismo —Parte 2. As referências às questões raciais têm ganhado espaço no campo da Psicologia e os olhares sobre as questões raciais nessa ciência estão frequentemente presentes como aspectos específicos de teorias críticas, mas a depender do “lugar” que tais olhares ocupam dentro dessas teorias, os impactos e críticas para a própria Psicologia ganham dimensões que apontam para inclusões pontuais de algumas categoriais ou para revisões mais amplas e estruturais desse campo do co-nhecimento. Os artigos publicizados neste dossiê contribuem para interpelar a Psicologia que ao longo da história contribuiu para a reprodução do racismo, articulado com outras opressões e violências e apontam caminhos de mudança na área e revelam a necessidade de um giro an-tirracista na Psicologia. (AU)

We present the articles published in the dossier Psychology, Racism and Anti-Racism –Part 2. References to racial issues have gained space in the field of Psychology and the perspectives on racial issues in this science are often present as specific aspects of critical theories, but depending on the “place” that such perspectives occupy within these theories, the impacts, and criticisms for Psychology itself gain dimensions that point to punctual inclusions of some categories or to broader and more structural revisions of this field of knowledge. The articles published in this dossier contribute to questioning Psychology that throughout history has con-tributed to the reproduction of racism, articulated with other oppressions and violence, and point out ways of change in the area and reveal the need for an anti-racist turn in Psychology. (AU)

Chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial activity, toxicity, genetic analysis and popular use of Eugenia luschnathiana (O. Berg) Klotzsch ex B. D. Jacks: a literature review / Composición química, actividad antioxidante, antimicrobiana, toxicidad, análisis genético y uso popular de Eugenia luschnathiana (O. Berg) Klotzsch ex B. D Jack: una revisión de la literatura

This review describes the geographical distribution, botanical data, popular use, chemical composition, pharmacological activities and genetic aspects related to Eugenia luschnathiana, a native Brazilian plant popularly known as "bay pitomba". E. luschnathiana leaves are characterized morphologically by the presence of a petiole, an attenuated base, acuminated apex, elliptical shape, and parallel venation. The major chemical compounds found in E. luschnathiana are sesquiterpenes. Literature reports showed that E. luschnathiana extracts have antioxidant properties and antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The extractsfrom the leaf, fruit and stem, and a concentrated residual solution of its essential oil, displayed negligible toxicity. Lastly, a cytogenetic analysis indicated that some markers can be used for the study of genetic diversity, population structure, and genetic improvements. The information available on E. luschnathiana supports the hypothesis that this plant may be a source of compounds with promising pharmacological activity.

Esta revisión describe la distribución geográfica, datos botánicos, uso popular, composición química, actividad farmacológica y el análisis genético de Eugenia luschnathiana, una planta originaria del Brasil conocida popularmente como "pitomba da baía". Las hojas de E. luschnathiana se caracterizan por la presencia de pecíolo, base atenuada, ápice acuminado, forma elíptica y venación paralela. Su composición química presenta mayormente sesquiterpenos. Los informes en la literatura muestran que los extractos de E. luschnathiana presentan propiedades antioxidantes y actividad antimicrobiana contra las bacterias Gram-negativas y Gram-positivas. Los extractos de la hoja, fruto y tallo, y una solución residual concentrada del aceite esencial, presentaron baja toxicidad. Por último, un análisis citogenético indicó que algunos marcadores pueden utilizarse para estudios de diversidad genética, estructura poblacional y mejoramiento genético. Las informaciones disponibles acerca de E. luschnathiana proponen la hipótesis de que esta planta puede ser una fuente de compuestos con actividad farmacológica prometedora.

Psicologia, Racismo e Antirracismo: primeira parte / Psychology, Racism and Anti-racism: first part

Apresentamos os artigos publicados no dossiê temático sobre Psicologia, Racismo e Antirracis-mocujo objetivo foi reunir reflexões acerca das distintas dinâmicas do racismo e das lutas, práticas e políticas antirracistas que vem sendo desenvolvidas. Os artigos propõem análises a partir de perspectivas psicológicas e de outras áreas do conhecimento e abordam questões re-lacionadas a contextos sociais, políticos e culturais marcados por histórias coloniais; problema-tizações sobre racismo e sua relação com a saúde mental; o papel reprodutor e também trans-formador das instituições, das políticas públicas e dos movimentos sociais. As experiências de sujeitos e grupos sociais como crianças, mulheres negras e indígenas, estudantes universitários foram abordadas por meio de metodologias que envolvem desde análise documental até pers-pectivas participativas. As produções contribuem para interpelar a Psicologia que ao longo da história contribuiu para a reprodução do racismo, articulado com outras opressões e violências eapontam caminhos de mudança na área.(AU)

We present the articles published in the thematic dossier on Psychology, Racism and Anti-racism, whose objective was to gather reflections on the different dynamics of racism and the anti-racist struggles, practices and policies that have been developed. The articles propose analyzes from psychological perspectives and from other areas of knowledge and address is-sues related to social, political andcultural contexts marked by colonial histories; problem-atizations about racism and its relationship with mental health; the reproductive and also transforming role of institutions, public policies and social movements. The experiences of subjects and social groups such as children, black and indigenous women, university students were approached through methodologies that range from document analysis to participatory perspectives. The productions contribute to questioning Psychology, which throughout history has contributed to the reproduction of racism, articulated with other oppressions and vio-lence, and points to paths for change in the area.(AU)

Docking Prediction, Antifungal Activity, Anti-Biofilm Effects on Candida spp., and Toxicity against Human Cells of Cinnamaldehyde.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the antifungal activity of cinnamaldehyde on Candida spp. In vitro and in situ assays were carried out to test cinnamaldehyde for its anti-Candida effects, antibiofilm activity, effects on fungal micromorphology, antioxidant activity, and toxicity on keratinocytes and human erythrocytes. Statistical analysis was performed considering α = 5%. RESULTS: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of cinnamaldehyde ranged from 18.91 µM to 37.83 µM. MIC values did not change in the presence of 0.8 M sorbitol, whereas an 8-fold increase was observed in the presence of ergosterol, suggesting that cinnamaldehyde may act on the cell membrane, which was subsequently confirmed by docking analysis. The action of cinnamaldehyde likely includes binding to enzymes involved in the formation of the cytoplasmic membrane in yeast cells. Cinnamaldehyde-treated microcultures showed impaired cellular development, with an expression of rare pseudo-hyphae and absence of chlamydoconidia. Cinnamaldehyde reduced biofilm adherence by 64.52% to 33.75% (p < 0.0001) at low concentrations (378.3-151.3 µM). Cinnamaldehyde did not show antioxidant properties. CONCLUSIONS: Cinnamaldehyde showed fungicidal activity through a mechanism of action likely related to ergosterol complexation; it was non-cytotoxic to keratinocytes and human erythrocytes and showed no antioxidant activity.

Orofacial antinociceptive activity and anchorage molecular mechanism in silico of geraniol.

We aimed to evaluate the orofacial antinociceptive effect of geraniol in mice and its molecular anchorage mechanism. Seven mice per group (probabilistic sample) were treated with geraniol (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg, i.p.), morphine (6 mg/kg, i.p.) and vehicle (saline + Tween 80 at 0.2%, i.p.) 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the experiment. Injecting glutamate (25 µM), capsaicin (2.5 µg) and formalin (2%) into the right upper lip (perinasal) of the mouse induced nociception. Behavioral analysis of the animals considered the friction time (in seconds) of the mentioned region using hind or front paws by a researcher blinded to the treatment groups. The statistical analysis was performed blindly, considering α = 5%. The results showed that in the glutamate and capsaicin tests, concentrations of 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg presented antinociceptive activity (p < 0.005, power> 80%). In the formalin test, geraniol was able to reduce nociception at a concentration of 50 mg/kg (p < 0.005, power> 80%). In the molecular anchorage study, high values of binding between the evaluated substance and receptors of glutamate were observed (metabotropic glutamate receptor, -87.8501 Kcal/mol; N-methyl-D-aspartate, -86.4451 Kcal/mol; α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid, -85.6755 Kcal/mol). Geraniol presented orofacial antinociceptive activity, probably by interacting with glutamate-related receptors.

Perillyl alcohol has antibacterial effects and reduces ROS production in macrophages.

Natural products have emerged as a rich source of bioactive compounds for adjunctive treatments of many infectious and inflammatory conditions, including periodontitis. Among the monoterpenes with significant biological properties, there is the perillyl alcohol (POH), which can be found in several essential oils and has shown immunomodulatory properties in recent studies, which may be interesting in the treatment of non-neoplastic inflammatory disorders. Objective To determine the antibacterial and immune modulatory activities of the POH. Methodology The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the POH for two significant Gram-negative periodontal pathogens were determined by macrodilution and subculture, respectively. Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 macrophages were determined by Trypan Blue and mitochondrial enzymatic activity assay. The modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was analyzed by flow cytometry and expression of TNF and arginase-1 by real-time PCR. Results The POH was effective against P. gingivalis (ATCC 33277) and F. nucleatum (ATCC 25586) with MIC= MBC=1600 µM. No cytotoxicity up to 100 µM was observed on macrophages. The cell proliferation was inhibited from 48 hours at 100 µM (p<0.05) and 250 µM (p<0.01). The POH increased ROS production at both 10 µM and 100 µM (p<0.05) in unstimulated cells. The PMA-induced ROS production was not affected by POH, whereas 100 µM significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced (LPS-induced) ROS. The expression of TNF was not affected by POH in unstimulated cells or in cells polarized to M1 phenotype, whereas both concentrations of POH reduced (p<0.05) the expression of arginase-1 in M2-polarized macrophages. Conclusion The POH has antibacterial activity against periodontal pathogens and reduced proliferation of murine macrophages without significant cytotoxicity at concentrations up to 100 µM. In addition, the POH reduced the LPS-induced ROS and the expression of arginase-1 in M2-polarized macrophages.

Differences between the oral changes presented by patients with solid and hematologic tumors during the chemotherapeutic treatment.

OBJECTIVE: This study sought to identify the differences between the oral changes presented by patients with solid and hematologic tumors during chemotherapeutic treatment. METHODOLOGY: This is an observational, prospective and quantitative study using direct documentation by follow-up of 105 patients from 0 to 18 years using the modified Oral Assessment Guide (OAG). Of the 105 patients analyzed, 57 (54.3%) were boys with 7.3 years (±5.2) mean age. Hematologic neoplasms accounted for 51.4% of all cases. RESULTS: Voice, lips, tongue, and saliva changes were not significantly different (p>0.05) between patients with solid or hematologic tumors and during the follow-up. From the 6th until the 10th week of chemotherapeutic treatment alterations in swallowing function, in the mucous membrane (buccal mucosa and palate), in the labial mucosa, and in the gingiva occurred and were distributed differently between the two tumors groups (p<0.05). The main alterations were observed in patients with hematologic tumors. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the oral changes during the chemotherapeutic treatment occurred especially in swallowing function, in the mucous membrane, in the labial mucosa and in the gingiva, and these alterations were found mainly in patients with hematologic tumors.

COVID-19-Related Challenges in Dental Education: Experiences From Brazil, the USA, and Australia

Abstract Objective: To describe and compare how three dental schools from different countries (Australia, Brazil, and the USA) have managed experiences in dental education during the COVID-19 crisis. Material and Methods: It is a descriptive study reporting the experience that three distinct dental schools faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. They represent countries that adopted different measures to tackle the pandemic and were undergoing different stages of the disease. Results: After the WHO declared the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal University of Paraíba suspended all on-site teaching, research, and service activities. For the return to teaching activities, the use of information and communications technology resources for distance learning was recommended. At the School of Dental Medicine (University of Pittsburgh), all research activities were suspended or, otherwise, could not be interrupted because of the employment of unique materials or supplies. When the pandemic started, Australia was one of the first countries to introduce strong regulations related to social distancing, travel restrictions, testing and tracking of infected patients. As such, the universities started to be closed from mid-March, cancelling all clinical and pre-clinical activities, maintaining online theoretical activities, such as seminars, lectures, and journal clubs. Conclusion: Numerous and critical difficulties have arisen as a result of the pandemic for individuals, communities and institutions that will have long-lasting effects. Our students face disruption to their education and career; our professional colleagues will be challenged rebuilding their practices, while staff at all Dental Schools are experiencing various hardships.

Orofacial antinociceptive activity and anchorage molecular mechanism in silico of geraniol

Abstract We aimed to evaluate the orofacial antinociceptive effect of geraniol in mice and its molecular anchorage mechanism. Seven mice per group (probabilistic sample) were treated with geraniol (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg, i.p.), morphine (6 mg/kg, i.p.) and vehicle (saline + Tween 80 at 0.2%, i.p.) 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the experiment. Injecting glutamate (25 μM), capsaicin (2.5 μg) and formalin (2%) into the right upper lip (perinasal) of the mouse induced nociception. Behavioral analysis of the animals considered the friction time (in seconds) of the mentioned region using hind or front paws by a researcher blinded to the treatment groups. The statistical analysis was performed blindly, considering α = 5%. The results showed that in the glutamate and capsaicin tests, concentrations of 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg presented antinociceptive activity (p < 0.005, power> 80%). In the formalin test, geraniol was able to reduce nociception at a concentration of 50 mg/kg (p < 0.005, power> 80%). In the molecular anchorage study, high values of binding between the evaluated substance and receptors of glutamate were observed (metabotropic glutamate receptor, -87.8501 Kcal/mol; N-methyl-D-aspartate, -86.4451 Kcal/mol; α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid, -85.6755 Kcal/mol). Geraniol presented orofacial antinociceptive activity, probably by interacting with glutamate-related receptors.

Promoção do uso racional de medicamentos no contexto dos 3º e 4º ciclos da educação de jovens e adultos / Promotion of the rational use of medicines in the context of the 3th and 4th cycles of youth and adult education / Promoción del uso racional de medicamentos en el context de los 3º y 4º ciclos de educación juvenil y adulta

Introdução: O alto consumo de medicamentos no Brasil impulsiona o desenvolvimento de estratégias para promoção do uso racional dos mesmos, especialmente em população mais vulneráveis. Objetivo: Traçar o perfil socioeconômico, demográfico e farmacoterapêutico dos alunos incluídos na presente pesquisa; bem como, promover atividades de educação em saúde.Metodologia: Trata-se de uma pesquisa epidemiológica transversal, quantitativa e descritiva realizada com 33 alunos do terceiro e quarto ciclos do programa de Educação de Jovens e Adultos de uma escola pública de João Pessoa-PB. Os dados foram coletados através de formulário, ficha de medicamentos e atividades de educação em saúde. Resultados:A maioria dos estudantes jovens e adultos com idade abaixo de 60 anos(75,7%), predominando o sexo feminino(69,6%)e parda(63,3%). Quase metade dos participantes é constituída de desempregados(45,5%). Parte dos alunos(39,9%) afirmaram ter renda mensal de até um salário mínimo. Para realização desse projeto foram efetuadas atividades que proporcionavam, através de metodologias ativas, a educação e promoção do uso racional de medicamentos e o autocuidado. Quanto ao perfil farmacoterapêutico observa-se interações medicamentosas entre anti-hipertensivos, hipoglicemiantes, anti-tireoidiano e medicamentos isentos de prescrição, apresentando presença de automedicação. As classes medicamentosas predominantes foram os analgésicos, anti-hipertensivos, anti-inflamatórios,antiácidos e hipoglicemiantes. Conclusões:O desenvolvimento de práticas educativas no âmbito da Educação de Jovens e Adultos incentivam o diálogo e a participação dos envolvidos, com grande potencial para ampliação do acesso às informações associadas ao autocuidado em saúde em suas famílias, escola e comunidade (AU).

Introduction:The high consumption of medicines in Brazil drives the development of strategies to promote their rational use, especially in the most vulnerable populations. Objective:Draw the socioeconomic, demographic and pharmacotherapeutic profile of the students included in this research; as well as promoting health education activities. Methodology:This is a cross-sectional, quantitative and descriptive epidemiological research carried out with 33 students from the third and fourth cycles of the Youth and Adult Education program of a public school in João Pessoa-PB. The data were collected through a form, medication form and health education activities. Results:The majority of young and adult students under the age of 60 (75.7%), predominantly female (69.6%) and brown (63.3%). Almost half of the participants are unemployed (45.5%). Part of the students (39.9%) said they had a monthly income of up to one minimum wage. In order to carry out this project, activities were carried out that provided, through active methodologies, education and promotion of the rational use of medicines and self-care. Regarding the pharmacotherapeutic profile, drug interactions are observed between antihypertensive drugs, hypoglycemic agents, anti-thyroid agents and non-prescription drugs, with the presence of self-medication. The predominant drug classes were analgesics, antihypertensives, anti-inflammatories, antacids and hypoglycemic agents. Conclusions:The development of educational practices within the scope of Youth and Adult Education encourages dialogue and the participation of those involved, with great potential for expanding access to information associated with self-care in health in their families, school and community (AU).

Introducción: El alto consumo de medicamentos en Brasil impulsa el desarrollo de estrategias para promover su uso racional, especialmente en las poblaciones más vulnerables. Objetivo:Dibujar el perfil socioeconómico, demográficoy farmacoterapéutico de los estudiantes incluidos en esta investigación; así como promover actividades de educación para la salud. Metodología:Esta es una investigación epidemiológica transversal, cuantitativa y descriptiva realizada con 33 estudiantes del tercer y cuarto ciclo del programa de Educación para Jóvenes y Adultos de una escuela pública en João Pessoa-PB. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de un formulario, formulario de medicamentos y actividades de educación para la salud.Resultados:La mayoría de los estudiantes jóvenes y adultos menores de 60 años (75.7%), predominantemente mujeres (69.6%) y marrones (63.3%). Casi la mitad de los participantes están desempleados (45,5%). Parte de los estudiantes (39.9%) dijeron que tenían un ingreso mensual de hasta un salario mínimo. Para llevar a cabo este proyecto, se llevaron a cabo actividades que proporcionaron, a través de metodologías activas, educación y promoción del uso racional de medicamentos y autocuidado. En cuanto al perfil farmacoterapéutico, se observan interacciones farmacológicas entre fármacos antihipertensivos, agentes hipoglucemiantes, agentes antitiroideos y medicamentos sin receta, con presencia de automedicación. Las clases de drogas predominantes fueron analgésicos, antihipertensivos, antiinflamatorios, antiácidos y agentes hipoglucemiantes. Conclusiones:El desarrollo de prácticas educativas en el ámbito de la educación de jóvenes y adultos fomenta el diálogo y la participación de los involucrados, con un gran potencial para ampliar el acceso a la información asociada con el autocuidado en salud en sus familias, escuelas y comunidades (AU).

Perillyl alcohol has antibacterial effects and reduces ROS production in macrophages

Abstract Natural products have emerged as a rich source of bioactive compounds for adjunctive treatments of many infectious and inflammatory conditions, including periodontitis. Among the monoterpenes with significant biological properties, there is the perillyl alcohol (POH), which can be found in several essential oils and has shown immunomodulatory properties in recent studies, which may be interesting in the treatment of non-neoplastic inflammatory disorders. Objective To determine the antibacterial and immune modulatory activities of the POH. Methodology The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the POH for two significant Gram-negative periodontal pathogens were determined by macrodilution and subculture, respectively. Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 macrophages were determined by Trypan Blue and mitochondrial enzymatic activity assay. The modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was analyzed by flow cytometry and expression of TNF and arginase-1 by real-time PCR. Results The POH was effective against P. gingivalis (ATCC 33277) and F. nucleatum (ATCC 25586) with MIC= MBC=1600 μM. No cytotoxicity up to 100 µM was observed on macrophages. The cell proliferation was inhibited from 48 hours at 100 μM (p<0.05) and 250 μM (p<0.01). The POH increased ROS production at both 10 μM and 100 μM (p<0.05) in unstimulated cells. The PMA-induced ROS production was not affected by POH, whereas 100 μM significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced (LPS-induced) ROS. The expression of TNF was not affected by POH in unstimulated cells or in cells polarized to M1 phenotype, whereas both concentrations of POH reduced (p<0.05) the expression of arginase-1 in M2-polarized macrophages. Conclusion The POH has antibacterial activity against periodontal pathogens and reduced proliferation of murine macrophages without significant cytotoxicity at concentrations up to 100 μM. In addition, the POH reduced the LPS-induced ROS and the expression of arginase-1 in M2-polarized macrophages.

Differences between the oral changes presented by patients with solid and hematologic tumors during the chemotherapeutic treatment

Abstract Objective: This study sought to identify the differences between the oral changes presented by patients with solid and hematologic tumors during chemotherapeutic treatment. Methodology: This is an observational, prospective and quantitative study using direct documentation by follow-up of 105 patients from 0 to 18 years using the modified Oral Assessment Guide (OAG). Of the 105 patients analyzed, 57 (54.3%) were boys with 7.3 years (±5.2) mean age. Hematologic neoplasms accounted for 51.4% of all cases. Results: Voice, lips, tongue, and saliva changes were not significantly different (p>0.05) between patients with solid or hematologic tumors and during the follow-up. From the 6th until the 10th week of chemotherapeutic treatment alterations in swallowing function, in the mucous membrane (buccal mucosa and palate), in the labial mucosa, and in the gingiva occurred and were distributed differently between the two tumors groups (p<0.05). The main alterations were observed in patients with hematologic tumors. Conclusion: It was concluded that the oral changes during the chemotherapeutic treatment occurred especially in swallowing function, in the mucous membrane, in the labial mucosa and in the gingiva, and these alterations were found mainly in patients with hematologic tumors.