Simple one-step treatment for saccharification of mango peels using an optimized enzyme cocktail of Aspergillus niger ATCC 9642.

Developing efficient microbiological methods to convert polysaccharide-rich materials into fermentable sugars, particularly monosaccharides, is vital for advancing the bioeconomy and producing renewable chemicals and energy sources. This study focused on optimizing the production conditions of an enzyme cocktail from Aspergillus niger ATCC 9642 using solid-state fermentation (SSF) and assessing its effectiveness in saccharifying mango peels through a simple, rapid, and efficient one-step process. A rotatable central composite design was employed to determine optimal conditions of moisture, time, and pH for enzyme production in SSF medium. The optimized enzyme cocktail exhibited cellulase activity (CMCase) at 6.28 U/g, filter paper activity (FPase) at 3.29 U/g, and pectinase activity at 117.02 U/g. These optimal activities were achieved with an SSF duration of 81 h, pH of 4.66, and a moisture content of 59%. The optimized enzyme cocktail effectively saccharified the mango peels without the need for chemical agents. The maximum saccharification yield reached approximately 81%, indicating efficient conversion of mango peels into sugars. The enzyme cocktail displayed consistent thermal stability within the tested temperature range of 30-60°C. Notably, the highest sugar release occurred within 36 h, with glucose, arabinose, galactose, and xylose being the primary monosaccharides released during saccharification. This study highlights the potential application of Aspergillus niger ATCC 9642 and SSF for enzymatic production, offering a simple and high-performance process for monosaccharide production. The optimized enzyme cocktail obtained through solid-state fermentation demonstrated efficient saccharification of mango peels, suggesting its suitability for industrial-scale applications.

Molecular Factors in PAD2 (PADI2) and PAD4 (PADI4) Are Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease Susceptibility in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients.

Around 50% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients show some extra-articular manifestation, with the lung a usually affected organ; in addition, the presence of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) is a common feature, which is caused by protein citrullination modifications, catalyzed by the peptidyl arginine deiminases (PAD) enzymes. We aimed to identify single nucleotide variants (SNV) in PADI2 and PADI4 genes (PAD2 and PAD4 proteins, respectively) associated with susceptibility to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in RA patients and the PAD2 and PAD4 levels. Material and methods: 867 subjects were included: 118 RA-ILD patients, 133 RA patients, and 616 clinically healthy subjects (CHS). Allelic discrimination was performed in eight SNVs using qPCR, four in PADI2 and four in PADI4. The ELISA technique determined PAD2 and PAD4 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples, and the population structure was evaluated using 14 informative ancestry markers. Results: The rs1005753-GG (OR = 4.9) in PADI2 and rs11203366-AA (OR = 3.08), rs11203367-GG (OR = 2.4) in PADI4 are associated with genetic susceptibility to RA-ILD as well as the ACTC haplotype (OR = 2.64). In addition, the PAD4 protein is increased in RA-ILD individuals harboring the minor allele homozygous genotype in PADI4 SNVs. Moreover, rs1748033 in PADI4, rs2057094, and rs2076615 in PADI2 are associated with RA susceptibility. In conclusion, in RA patients, single nucleotide variants in PADI4 and PADI2 are associated with ILD susceptibility. The rs1748033 in PADI4 and two different SNVs in PADI2 are associated with RA development but not ILD. PAD4 serum levels are increased in RA-ILD patients.

The HLA-DRB1*07 Allele Is Associated with Interstitial Lung Abnormalities (ILA) and Subpleural Location in a Mexican Mestizo Population.

Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA) are defined as the presence of different patterns of increased lung density, including ground glass attenuation and reticular opacities on chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). In this study, we included 90 subjects with ILA and 189 healthy controls (HC) from our Aging Lung Program. We found that subjects with ILA are older, have a significant smoking history, and have worse pulmonary function than HC (p < 0.05). When we evaluated the allele frequencies of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system, we found that HLA-DRB1*07 was associated with a higher risk for ILA (p < 0.05, OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.06-3.57). When we compared subjects with subpleural ILA vs. HC, the association with HLA-DRB1*07 became stronger than the whole ILA group (p < 0.05, OR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.24-4.25). Furthermore, subjects with subpleural ILA and central ILA display differences in allele frequencies with HLA-DRB1*14 (3.33% vs. 13.33%, p < 0.05) and *15 (3.33% vs. 20%, p < 0.05). Our findings indicate that the HLA-DRB1*07 allele contributes to the risk of ILA, especially those of subpleural locations.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the Context of Respiratory Diseases and Its Importance in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an 805 amino acid protein encoded by the ACE2 gene expressed in various human cells, especially in those located in the epithelia. The primary function of ACE2 is to produce angiotensin (1-7) from angiotensin II (Ang II). The current research has described the importance of ACE2 and Ang (1-7) in alternative routes of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) that promote the downregulation of fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress processes in a great variety of diseases, such as hypertension, acute lung injury, liver cirrhosis, and kidney abnormalities. Investigations into the recent outbreak of the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have revealed the importance of ACE2 during infection and its role in recognizing viral binding proteins through interactions with specific amino acids of this enzyme. Additionally, the ACE2 expression in several organs has allowed us to understand the clinical picture related to the infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. This review aims to provide context for the functions and importance of ACE2 with regards to SARS-CoV-2 in the general clinical aspect and its impact on other diseases, especially respiratory diseases.

Uso de un nuevo protocolo clínico fotográfico-computacional en el registro de la fluorescencia visible inducida por radiación ultravioleta en dientes humanos

RESUMEN: Los dientes humanos experimentan fluorescencia visible al ser sometidos a radiación ultravioleta, la cual varía de color a medida que el diente envejece. Objetivo: el presente estudio buscó desarrollar un protocolo clínico sencillo usando fotografía digital y análisis computacional para determinar la fluorescencia visible inducida por radiación ultravioleta (FVIUV) en dientes anteriores de pacientes de distintos grupos etarios. Materiales y Métodos: 35 participantes de 5 grupos etarios fueron reclutados. 70 incisivos centrales superiores fueron fotografiados utilizando como fuente de iluminación luz UV. Cada imagen obtenida fue analizada con el software computacional ImageJ para obtener las coordenadas de color en el espacio CIELab para la corona completa. Los datos obtenidos fueron analizados mediante las pruebas estadísticas de ANOVA y post-hoc de Tukey HSD. Resultados: Se obtuvieron las magnitudes de FVIUV en las tres dimensiones del espacio de color CIELab en la corona completa. Esta FVIUV se manifestó en el espectro del color verdeazulado para todos los grupos etarios, los cuales presentaron diferencias de saturación y luminosidad según tramo etario. Conclusiones: El protocolo aplicado en presente estudio permitió la cuantificación de la FVIUV dentaria en distintos grupos etarios.

ABSTRACT: Human teeth experience visible fluorescence when subjected to ultraviolet radiation, which varies in color as the tooth ages. Objective: The present study sought to develop a simple clinical protocol using digital photography and computational analysis to determine the difference in visible fluorescence induced by ultraviolet radiation (FVIUV) in anterior teeth of patients of different age groups. Materials and Methods: 35 participants from five age groups were recruited. 70 upper central incisors were photographed using UV light as the illumination source. Each image obtained was analyzed with ImageJ computer software to obtain the color coordinates in CIELab space for the entire crown. The data obtained was analyzed using the ANOVA and Tukey HSD post-hoc statistical tests. Results: Visible fluorescence magnitudes were obtained in the three dimensions of the CIELab color space in the complete crown. This FVIUV was registered in the spectrum of the blue-green color for all age groups, which presented differences in saturation and luminosity according to age group. Conclusions: The protocol applied in this study allowed the quantification of dental FVIUV in different age groups.

Caracterización de cardiopatías congénitas en Manizales 2010-2016 / Characterization of Congenital Heart Defects in Manizales 2010-2016 / Caracterização de cardiopatias congênitas em Manizales, Colômbia, 2010-2016

Resumen: Las cardiopatías congénitas son la tercera causa de malformaciones congénitas y una de las principales responsables de la mortalidad en periodo neonatal en el mundo; se originan a partir de alteraciones en el desarrollo embrionario. La incidencia es variable; en Colombia, se estima que afectan del 2 al 3 % de los recién nacidos vivos. En 2015, 20,8 % de los niños menores de cinco años afectados con cardiopatías congénitas fallecieron a causa de estas alteraciones. El presente es un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se incluyeron los datos de 252 historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de cardiopatía congénita entre los años 2010 y 2016, el 56 % de la población encontrada fue de sexo femenino. Predominaron las cardiopatías congénitas no cianosantes (87 %). La mayor prevalencia fue el ductus arterioso permeable (35,3 %). La ecocardiografía Doppler se utilizó en 98,4 % de los casos; con respecto al manejo, el 47,2 % de los pacientes estuvieron en seguimiento, siendo este más común que las alternativas médicas o quirúrgicas. En conclusión, el ductus arterioso permeable, la comunicación interventricular y la comunicación interatrial son las cardiopatías no ciano-santes más frecuentes en la población estudiada y se asocian a hipertensión pulmonar que ameritan mayor seguimiento. La tetralogía de Fallot fue la cardiopatía congénita cianosante más común.

Abstract: Congenital heart defects are the third cause of congenital malformations and one of the main causes of mortality in the neonatal period in the world; they originate from alterations in embryonic development. The incidence is variable; in Colombia, it is estimated that they affect 2 to 3% of live newborns. In 2015, 20.8% of children under the age of five affected with congenital heart defects died from these disorders. This is a descriptive and retrospective study. Data of 252 clinical records of patients diagnosed with congenital heart defect between 2010 and 2016 were included, showing that 56% of this population were female. Acyanotic Congenital Heart Diseases predominated (87%). The highest prevalence was patent ductus arteriosus (35.3%). Doppler echocardiography was used in 98.4% of cases; regarding management, 47.2% of patients were in follow-up, this being more common than medical or surgical alternatives. In conclusion patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defect and interatrial septal defect are the most frequent acyanotic heart diseases in the population under study and they are associated with pulmonary hypertension that require higher follow-up. Tetralogy of Fallot was the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease.

Resumo: As cardiopatias congênitas são a terceira causa de malformações congênitas e uma das principais responsáveis pela mortalidade no período neonatal no mundo. São originadas a partir de alterações no desenvolvimento embrionário. A incidência é variável; na Colômbia, é estimado que afetam de 2 a 3 % dos recém-nascidos vivos. Em 2015, 20,8 % das crianças menores de cinco anos afetadas com cardiopatias congênitas faleceram por causa dessas alterações. Este estudo é descritivo e retrospectivo. Foram incluídos dados de 252 prontuários de pacientes com diagnóstico de cardiopatia congênita entre 2010 e 2016, 56 % da população encontrada foi do sexo feminino. Predominaram as cardiopatias congênitas não cianóticas (87 %). A maior persistência foi o dueto arterioso permeável (35,3 %). A ecocardiografìa Doppler foi utilizada em 98,4 % dos casos; quanto ao manejo, 47,2 % dos pacientes estiveram em seguimento, o que foi mais comum do que as alternativas médicas ou cirúrgicas. Em conclusão, o ducto arterioso permeável, a comunicação interventricular e a comunicação interatrial são as cardiopatias não cianóticas mais frequentes na população estudada e são associadas com a hipertensão pulmonar que merecem maior seguimento. A tetralogia de Fallot foi a cardiopatia congènita cianòtica mais comum.

Single Nucleotide and Copy-Number Variants in IL4 and IL13 Are Not Associated with Asthma Susceptibility or Inflammatory Markers: A Case-Control Study in a Mexican-Mestizo Population.

BACKGROUND: Asthma is a complex and chronic inflammatory airway disease. Asthma's etiology is unknown; however, genetic and environmental factors could affect disease susceptibility. We designed a case-control study aimed to evaluate the role of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), and copy-number variants (CNV) in the IL4 and IL13 genes in asthma susceptibility and their participation in plasma cytokine levels depending on genotypes Methods: We include 486 subjects, divided into asthma patients (AP, n = 141) and clinically healthy subjects (CHS, n = 345). We genotyped three SNP, two in the IL4 and two in the IL13 gene; also, two CNVs in IL4. The IL-4, IL-13 and IgE plasma levels were quantified. RESULTS: Biomass-burning smoke exposure was higher in the AP group compared to CHS (47.5% vs. 20.9%; p < 0.01, OR = 3.4). No statistical differences were found in the genetic association analysis. In both CNV, we only found the common allele. For the analysis of IL-4, IL-13, and IgE measures stratified by genotypes, no significant association or correlation was found. CONCLUSION: In the Mexican-mestizo population, SNPs neither CNVs in IL4 nor IL13 are associated with asthma susceptibility or involved serum cytokine levels. Biomass-burning smoke is a risk factor in asthma susceptibility.

Anti-HLA Class II Antibodies Correlate with C-Reactive Protein Levels in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease.

The pathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is not fully understood, probably influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is an extra-articular manifestation of RA, which contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. The identification of anti-HLA antibodies has been useful in the transplantation field; however, its contribution to autoimmune diseases as RA has not been fully studied. We aimed to determine the presence of anti-HLA antibodies in RA patients with and without ILD and its possible association with clinical and biochemical markers. One-hundred and forty-seven RA patients, of which 65 had ILD (RA-ILD group), were included. Sera samples for Anti-HLA Class II LABScreen panel-reactive antibodies (PRA) were analyzed. In both groups, women predominated, and lung function was worse in patients with ILD. The anti-CCP+ (UI/mL) was higher in the RA group in comparison to RA-ILD (p < 0.001). Expositional risk factors (tobacco smoking and biomass-burning smoke) were higher in RA-ILD patients. PRA+ was identified in ~25% RA-ILD patients, while ~29% in the RA group. The CRP levels have a positive correlation with the percentage of reactivity (%PRA, p = 0.02, r2 = 0.60) in the RA-ILD group. In conclusion, anti-HLA antibodies correlate with C-reactive protein levels in RA patients with ILD.

HLA Allele and Haplotype Frequencies in Three Urban Mexican Populations: Genetic Diversity for the Approach of Genomic Medicine.

Genetic variability defends us against pathogen-driven antigens; human leucocyte antigens (HLA) is the immunological system in charge of this work. The Mexican mestizo population arises mainly from the mixture of three founder populations; Amerindian, Spaniards, and a smaller proportion of the African population. We describe allele and haplotype frequencies of HLA class I (-A and -B) and class II (-DRB1 and -DQB1), which were analyzed by PCR-SSP in Mexican mestizo from three urban populations of Mexico: Chihuahua-Chihuahua City (n = 88), Mexico City-Tlalpan (n = 330), and Veracruz-Xalapa (n = 84). The variability of the allele HLA class I and class II among the three regions of Mexico are in four alleles: HLA-A*24:02 (36.39%), -B*35:01 (16.04%), -DRB1*04:07 (17.33%), and -DQB1*03:02 (31.47%), these alleles have been previously described in some indigenous populations. We identified 5 haplotypes with a frequency >1%: HLA-A*02:01-B*35:01-DRB1*08:02-DQB1*04:02, A*68:01-B*39:01-DRB1*08:02-DQB1*04:02, A*02:01-B*35:01-DRB1*04:07-DQB1*03:02, A*68:01-B*39:01-DRB1*04:07-DQB1*03:02, and A*01:01-B*08:01-DRB1*03:01-DQB1*02:01. Also, the haplotype A*02:01-B*35:01-DRB1*08:02-DQB1*04:02 was identified in Tlalpan and Xalapa regions. Haplotype A*01:01-B*08:01-DRB1*03:01-DQB1*02:01 was found only in Tlalpan and Chihuahua. In the Xalapa region, the most frequent haplotype was A*24:02-B*35:01-DRB1*04:07-DQB1*03:02. These alleles and haplotypes have been described in Amerindian populations. Our data are consistent with previous studies and contribute to the analysis of the variability in the Mexican population.

One-year bleaching efficacy using two HP products with different pH: A double-blind randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: This split-mouth, double-blind, randomized clinical trial evaluated the 1-year bleaching efficacy produced by two hydrogen peroxide gels with different pHs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight patients were divided into two groups corresponding to two different products: Pola Office (pH = 2.0/SDI) and Pola Office Plus (pH = 7.0/SDI). The treatment was assessed during and after the bleaching procedure up to 12 months post-treatment. The assessment consisted of two bleaching scales shade guide units (ΔSGU) and spectrophotometric device (ΔE, ΔE00, and Whiteness Index) of both maxillary quadrants. Results for ΔSGUs in both scales and ΔE00 and Whiteness Index were compared using Mann Whitney test and ΔE measurements through the t-Student test for paired samples in each evaluation time. The color rebound (1- vs 12-month postbleaching data) was evaluated with Wilcoxon test (alpha = .05). RESULTS: During the different times of evaluation, the color variation was similar for both products (P > .05), both for subjective (ΔSGUs) and objective assessments (ΔE, ΔE00, and Whiteness Index). Also, both products showed a slight rebound after 12-month postbleaching (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Concerning the stability of color, in-office dental whitening with two hydrogen peroxide gels of different pHs produced similar results, with no significant of regression, for 12 months postwhitening. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Bleaching using a neutral (pH = 7.0) in-office gel demonstrated similar stability and rebound effect than an acidic one (pH = 2.0).

Genetic variants as risk factors for cigarette smoking at an early age and relapse to smoking cessation treatment: A pilot study.

OBJECTIVES: Tobacco smoking is a complex and multifactorial disease involving both environmental and genetic factors. In the Mexican mestizo population, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with cigarette smoking and a greater degree of nicotine addiction have been identified; however, no possible roles have been explored in regard to the age of onset of smoking or in the success of quitting. METHODS: In this study, 151 Mexican mestizo, who smoke cigarettes, were included. They were grouped according to the age at which they started smoking: those who started smoking before 18 years of age (early smokers, ES) and those who started smoking ≥18 years of age (late smokers, LS). In addition, relapse in smoking was evaluated at the first month after the end of treatment. Genetic association was evaluated characterizing 10 SNPs in 4 genes (CHRNA5, CHRNA3, NRXN1, and HTR2A). RESULTS: According to the dominant model of genetic inheritance, rs6313 (CT+TT) of the HTR2A gene was associated (p = 0.0201) with cigarette consumption at early ages (OR = 2.68, CI = 1.18-6.07). When the risk of relapse was analyzed one month after the end of treatment, regardless of the age of onset, the T allele (rs6313) of HTR2A appeared to be a risk factor for relapse (OR = 2.92, 95% CI = 1.06-8.11); the T allele was found more frequently in those who relapsed (50.0%) compared with people who maintained abstinence (25.4%) (p = 0.0332). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that in Mexican mestizos who smoke cigarettes, the presence of the T allele in rs6313 of the HTR2A gene increases the risk for the early onset of cigarette smoking as well as the risk for relapsing one month after completing smoking cessation treatment.

Effect of SNPs in HSP Family Genes, Variation in the mRNA and Intracellular Hsp Levels in COPD Secondary to Tobacco Smoking and Biomass-Burning Smoke.

Heat shock proteins (HSP) genes are a superfamily responsible for encoding highly conserved proteins that are important for antigen presentation, immune response regulation, and cellular housekeeping processes. These proteins can be increased by cellular stress related to pollution, for example, smoke from biomass burning and/or tobacco smoking. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes could affect the levels of their proteins, as well as the susceptibility to developing lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), related to the exposure to environmental factors. Methods: The subjects included were organized into two comparison groups: 1,103 smokers (COPD patients, COPD-S = 360; smokers without COPD, SWOC = 743) and 442 never-smokers who were chronically exposed to biomass smoke (COPD patients, COPD-BS = 244; exposed without COPD, BBES = 198). Eight SNPs in three HSP genes were selected and genotyped: four in HSPA1A, two in HSPA1B, and two in HSPA1L. Sputum expectoration was induced to obtain pulmonary cells and relative quantification of mRNA expression. Subsequently, the intracellular protein levels of total Hsp27, phosphorylated Hsp27 (Hsp27p), Hsp60, and Hsp70 were measured in a sample of 148 individuals selected based on genotypes. Results: In the smokers' group, by a dominant model analysis, we found associations between rs1008438 (CA+AA; p = 0.006, OR = 1.52), rs6457452 (CT+TT; p = 0.000015, OR = 1.99), and rs2763979 (CT+TT; p = 0.007, OR = 1.60) and the risk to COPD. Among those exposed to biomass-burning smoke, only rs1008438 (CA+AA; p < 0.01, OR = 2.84) was associated. Additionally, rs1008438 was associated with disease severity in the COPD-S group (AA; p = 0.02, OR = 2.09). An increase in the relative expression level of HSPA1A was found (12-fold change) in the COPD-BS over the BBES group. Differences in Hsp27 and Hsp60 proteins levels were found (p < 0.05) in the comparison of COPD-S vs. SWOC. Among biomass-burning smoke-exposed subjects, differences in the levels of all proteins (p < 0.05) were detected. Conclusion: SNPs in HSP genes are associated with the risk of COPD and severe forms of the disease. Differences in the intracellular Hsp levels are altered depending on the exposition source.

Teeth whitening with 6% hydrogen peroxide and its impact on quality of life: 2 years of follow-up.

This study aimed to evaluate color longevity after 2 years of whitening gel (6% hydrogen peroxide (HP), blue LED/infrared laser activation system) in comparison to a control 35% concentration in a split-mouth study and investigate the long-term effect on quality of life (QOL).Thirty-one patients were treated. Whitening using 6% or 35% HP gel was performed on half of the upper jaw in each patient. The color was measured at baseline and 1 week, 1 month, 1 and 2 years after treatment using the Easyshade Vita spectrophotometer and the Vita Bleached and Vita Classical Shade Guides organized by value. During 2 years of follow-up, color was evaluated before and after dental prophylaxis. Oral Health of Impact Profile (OHIP 14) and Psychosocial Impact Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) surveys measured QOL. Nineteen patients were evaluated at the 2-year follow-up. Significant differences in ΔE were measured between the two groups at all time points (p < 0.05). No significant differences in ΔSGU were observed at any time point (p > 0.05). The positive effect of bleaching on QOL was maintained in patients treated with a low concentration of the whitening gel. The two compounds remained effective after 2 years. An objective color difference was found between the groups, but no difference was observed in subjective reports. The positive effect on QOL remained after 2 years of follow-up in this cohort of patients.ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02353611.

Effects of Sealing Marginal Occlusal Defects of Composite Restorations with a Nanofiller-Reinforced Flowable Resin Composite: A Double-Blind, Randomised Clinical Trial with One-Year Follow-Up.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the 6-and 12-month performance of microrepairs of marginal occlusal microdefects of resin composite restorations in a group of patients with high caries risk. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-five patients with at least three resin composite restorations with marginal occlusal defects were randomly distributed into three treatment groups: (1) sealed with flowable resin composite; (2) sealed with resin-based sealant; or (3) control. Restorations in all groups were assessed using World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria at three time points: baseline, and at 6 and 12 months after sealing. RESULTS: After 1 year, 32 patients were examined. Of all the repaired restorations, those of the flowable resin composite (RC) group maintained an FDI value of 1 for marginal occlusal adaptation for 81.3% of the restorations at 6 and 78.1% at 12 months. The resin-based sealant group kept a value of 1 for the same parameter on 65.6% of restorations at 6 and 50% at 12 months with a statistically significant difference (p= 0.024) between the two time periods. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups at the 12-month comparison (p = 0.015). CONCLUSIONS: Occlusal RC restorations that were sealed using either a resin-based sealant or a nanofilled flowable RC benefited from improved clinical status after 12 months. Use of the latter presented the better clinical performance of the two by providing a higher rate of total retention of sealing materials.

Game Perspective-Taking Effects on Players' Behavioral Intention, Attitudes, Subjective Norms, and Self-Efficacy to Help Immigrants: The Case of "Papers, Please".

This study expands on game character perspective-taking effects on political opinions while controlling for players' social dominance orientation or inclination for inequality among social groups. Random assignment to play a game as an immigration inspector decreased intention, subjective norms, and self-efficacy to help immigrants relative to baseline scores. The scores of participants randomly assigned to play a game similar in style but instead featuring the role of a newspaper editor remained unchanged. Within-subjects effects implied that baseline reductions in intention, subjective norms, and self-efficacy to help immigrants were solely attributed to playing games as game immigration inspectors. The study provides initial evidence that taking on the perspective of game characters can influence players' opinions about political issues, such as immigration.

Influence of proinflammatory cytokine gene polymorphisms on the risk of COPD and the levels of plasma protein.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex and multifactorial disease involving systemic inflammation. Although certain genetic components have been implicated in the development and progression of this disease, few studies have examined the participation of polymorphisms in proinflammatory genes and the extent to which polymorphisms are related to plasma levels of cytokines involved in the inflammatory process. METHODS: Of the 1125 smokers participating in the study, 438 had COPD, and 687 did not. We determined the genotype of 5 SNPs distributed in the genes: IL6, CXL8, CSF2, CCL1 and IL1B. The plasma protein expression of these genes was also evaluated and categorized according to genotype and the severity of COPD (GOLD grade). RESULTS: An analysis using the codominant model showed an association between rs1818879 in IL6 and susceptibility to COPD (GA OR = 1.1, AA OR = 1.77; p < 0.01), as well as an association between rs25882 in CSF2 and a greater severity of the disease (TC OR = 1.84, CC OR = 3.62; p < 0.01). No association was found between the presence of certain alleles in the SNPs and the plasma levels of the corresponding proteins. CONCLUSIONS: There are genetic polymorphisms related to susceptibility to COPD (rs1818879/A in IL6), as well as to the risk of greater severity of the disease (rs25882/T in CSF2). The presence of the alleles of interest did not significantly affect plasma levels of the codified proteins.

Quality of life and stability of tooth color change at three months after dental bleaching.

PURPOSE: Intracoronary bleaching is a minimally invasive, alternative treatment that addresses aesthetic concerns related to non-vital teeth discoloration. However, to the best of our knowledge, no studies have assessed the psychosocial impacts of such procedures on patients' aesthetic perceptions. The aim of this study was to evaluate aesthetic perceptions and the psychosocial impact of patients up to 3 months after their teeth had been bleached with hydrogen peroxide (35%) and carbamide peroxide (37%) using the walking bleach technique. METHODS: The patients were randomly divided into two groups according to the bleaching agent used: G1 = hydrogen peroxide 35% (n = 25) and G2 = carbamide peroxide 37% (n = 25). Non-vital bleaching was performed in four sessions. Color was objectively (ΔE) and subjectively (ΔSGU) evaluated. Aesthetic perception and psychosocial factors were evaluated before, 1 week and 1 month after the bleaching using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) and Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) questionnaires. RESULTS: The color change (ΔE) values at 1 month were G1 = 16.80 ± 6.07 and G2 = 14.09 ± 4.83. These values remained stable until the third month after treatment (p > 0.05). There was a decrease in the values of OHIP-aesthetics and PIDAQ after treatment versus baseline (p < 0.05). This status was maintained through the third month after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Both agents were highly effective and had a positive impact on the aesthetic perception and psychosocial impact of patients, values that also remained stable over time. Non-vital bleaching yields positive and stable impacts on aesthetic perception and psychosocial factors. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02718183.

Color stability, psychosocial impact, and effect on self-perception of esthetics of tooth whitening using low-concentration (6%) hydrogen peroxide.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the bleaching efficacy and impact on psychosocial and esthetics self-perception of a low-concentration (6%) hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) gel compared with a conventional (37.5%) H2O2 gel when used as an in-office treatment. METHOD AND MATERIALS: In total, 35 participants received two sessions of three 12-minute applications of treatment with 37.5% H2O2 on one side of the mouth and 6% H2O2 on the other. Color changes were measured objectively using total variation in color (ΔE) and subjectively using Vita Classical scale (ΔSGU). The Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetic Questionnaire (PIDAQ) and Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) esthetic questionnaires were administered to measure self-perception and the psychosocial impact of the whitening procedure. RESULTS: Both gels produced significant changes in tooth color at 1 and 3 months post-whitening. The objective efficacy (ΔE) of 37.5% H2O2 (9.06 ± 2.96) was significantly higher than that of 6% H2O2 (5.69 ± 3.06). The results of the subjective assessment were not statistically different. There was a positive impact on esthetic auto perception (OHIP-14, P < .05) and psychosocial impact (PIDAQ, P < .05) at the 3-month time point. CONCLUSION: Low concentration of H2O2 (6%) achieved effective bleaching (ΔE > 5 units) with good stability at 3 months accompanied by a positive psychosocial impact and enhanced self-perception. However, the traditional 35% concentration was objectively more effective.

Osteotomía proximal en cuña abierta de tibia con injerto de peroné en la enfermedad de Blount / Ostéotomie tibiale proximale en chevron ouvert et greffon de péroné dans la maladie de Blount / Proximal osteotomy in tibia open wedge with fibular graft in Blount's disease

Introducción: La tibia vara es una enfermedad compleja que consta de varias deformidades en la rodilla y la pierna. Su tratamiento es controvertido. Con las técnicas quirúrgicas actuales se logra la corrección, pero la tendencia a la recidiva es elevada. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso de la osteotomía proximal de tibia en cuña abierta con injerto de peroné en la enfermedad de Blount. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de intervención en 11 pacientes (18 miembros inferiores) con tibia vara, con edades entre 3 y 18 años, que acudieron a la consulta externa del Servicio de Miembro Inferior y Artroscopia del Complejo Científico Ortopédico Internacional Frank País del 1ro de junio de 2009 al 31 de mayo de 2011. A estos pacientes se les realizó una osteotomía proximal en cuña abierta medial de tibia. Se empleó un injerto estructural de peroné para corregir la deformidad. Se utilizaron los criterios clínico-radiográficos de Schoenecker PL y otros para la evaluación del procedimiento quirúrgico. Resultados: A partir de la propuesta de Schoenecker PL y otros, se pudo comprobar que 77,77 por ciento de los resultados fueron buenos; 16,66 por ciento, regulares, y 11,11 por ciento, malos, lo cual demuestra que el tratamiento con esta técnica fue efectivo. Se determinó además que un ángulo tibiofemoral mayor de 30º y un estadío radiográfico avanzado de la enfermedad son factores que afectan negativamente los resultados obtenidos. Conclusión: La osteotomía proximal en cuña abierta medial de tibia con injerto estructural de peroné ofreció buenos resultados clínicos y radiográficos en el tratamiento de la enfermedad de Blount(AU)

Introduction: Tibia vara is a complex disease consisting in several deformities in the knee and leg. The treatment is controversial. Correction is achieved with current surgical techniques, but the tendency to relapse is high. Objective: To evaluate the use of medial opening wedge proximal tibial osteotomy with fibular graft in Blount's disease. Methods: An intervention study was achieved in 11 patients (18 lower limbs) with tibia vara. The ages of these patients ranged from 3 to 18 years, and they were assisted in the outpatient clinic of the Lower Limbs and Arthroscopy Service at Frank País International Orthopedic Scientific Complex from June 1, 2009 to May 31, 2011. These patients underwent medial opening wedge proximal tibial osteotomy. A fibular structural graft was used to correct the deformity. The clinical and radiographic criteria of Schoenecker PL and others were used for the evaluation of the surgical procedure. Results: As of the proposal of Schoenecker PL and others, it was found that 77.77 percent of the results were good; 16.66 percent acceptable, and 11.11 percent poor, which shows this technique was effective for the treatment. It was also determined that a tibiofemoral angle larger than 30º and an advanced radiographic stage of the disease are factors that negatively affect the results. Conclusion: The medial opening wedge proximal tibial osteotomy with structural graft offered good clinical and radiographic results in the treatment of Blount's disease(AU)

Introduction: Le tibia vara est une maladie complexe comportant plusieurs déformations au niveau du genou et de la jambe. Son traitement est controversé. Elle peut être corrigée par les nouvelles techniques chirurgicales, mais la récidive tend à être élevée. Objectif: Évaluer l'utilisation de l'ostéotomie tibiale proximale en chevron ouvert et du greffon de péroné dans la maladie de Blount. Méthodes: Une étude interventionnelle de 11 patients (18 extrémités inférieures), âgés de 3 à 18 ans, atteints de tibia vara, et vus en consultation externe du 1 janvier 2009 au 31 mai 2011 au service des affections des extrémités inférieures et d'arthroscopie du Complexe scientifique internationale d'orthopédie «Frank Pais¼, a été réalisée. Ces patients ont été traités par une ostéotomie tibiale proximale en chevron ouvert médial. Un greffon structurel de péroné a été employé pour corriger la déformation. On a utilisé les critères cliniques et radiographiques de Schoenecker PL et al pour évaluer la procédure chirurgicale. Résultats: À partir de la proposition de Schoenecker PL et al, on a pu constater que les résultats ont été bons (77.77 pourcent); acceptables (16.66 %), et mauvais (11.11 pourcent), montrant ainsi que la technique était effective. On a aussi trouvé qu'une angulation tibio-fémorale de plus de 30° et un stade radiographique avancé de la maladie sont des facteurs influant négativement sur les résultats obtenus. Conclusions: L'ostéotomie tibiale proximale en chevron ouvert médial et le greffon structurel de péroné offrent de bons résultats cliniques et radiographiques dans le traitement de la maladie de Blount(AU)