Anti-Candida activity and in vitro toxicity screening of antifungals complexed with ß-cyclodextrin.

The emergence of resistant fungal species and the toxicity of currently available antifungal drugs are relevant issues that require special consideration. Cyclodextrins inclusion complexes could optimize the antimicrobial activity of such drugs and create a controlled release system with few side effects. This study aimed to assess the in vitro toxicity and antifungal effectiveness of nystatin (Nys) and chlorhexidine (Chx) complexed or not with ß-cyclodextrin (ßCD). First, a drug toxicity screening was performed through the Artemia salina bioassay. Then, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against Candida albicans were determined with the broth microdilution test. After MICs determination, the cytotoxicity of the drugs was evaluated through the methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays and through cell morphology analysis. The PROBIT analysis was used to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50), and the cell viability values were submitted to one-way analysis of variance(ANOVA)/Tukey (α = 0.05). Overall, the ßCD-complexed antifungals were less toxic against A. salina than their raw forms, suggesting that inclusion complexes can reduce the toxicity of drugs. The MICs obtained were as follows: Nys 0.5 mg/L; Nys:ßCD 4 mg/L; Chx 4 mg/L; and Chx:ßCD 8 mg/L. Chx showed significant cytotoxicity (MTT: 12.9 ± 9.6%; NR: 10.6 ± 12.5%) and promoted important morphological changes. Cells exposed to the other drugs showed viability above 70% with no cellular damage. These results suggest that antifungals complexed with ßCD might be a biocompatible option for the treatment of Candida-related infections.

Characterization and antifungal activity of chlorhexidine:ß-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes.

Aim: This study aimed to develop, characterize and analyze the antifungal activity of chlorhexidine:ß-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes (Chx:ßCD). Materials & methods: Chx:ßCD were characterized by physicochemical techniques and the susceptibility of nine Candida strains was assessed. The inhibition of Candida albicans biofilm growth was evaluated in a denture material modified with the incorporation of Chx:ßCD. Results: Chx was better complexed in 1:2 molar ratio by freeze-drying. Chx:ßCD presented antifungal activity against all Candida strains. When incorporated into the denture material, Chx:ßCD showed better antifungal activity, as it required about 7.5% of Chx concentration compared with the raw Chx for 14 days. Conclusion: The improved characteristics of Chx:ßCD can result in new formulations to treat oral candidiasis and denture stomatitis.

Many people who wear dentures can get a fungal infection called denture stomatitis. Treating this infection is hard because it often comes back. There are many reasons why it can come back, like not following instructions, taking the wrong amount of medicine or having a bad reaction to the drugs. Using old and poorly fitting dentures and the difficulty to maintain the medicine in the right place can also make it harder to get better. One idea to make treatment easier is to add stronger drugs with fewer side effects to the material used to make dentures. That way, patients would only need to wear dentures with the right amount of medicine for a certain time to treat the infection.

Oral lichen planus in a young patient: a case report with nine-year follow-up / Líquen plano oral em paciente jovem: um relato de caso com acompanhamento de nove anos

INTRODUCTION: Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that affects the stratified squamous epithelium of the oral mucosa. It occurs more frequently in female patients and it is rarely observed in children, adolescents, or young adults. This study aims to report a case of oral lichen planus in a young patient with a nine-year followup. CASE REPORT: A 19-year-old man reported to the Dentistry Department with a complaint of an asymptomatic white lesion on the dorsum and left lateral border of his tongue, which had appeared a few weeks before. Two weeks later, a second lesion, very similar to the previous one, appeared on the central region of his tongue. An incisional biopsy was performed. The histological slides were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and the expression of interleukin-1beta (IL-1ß) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was assessed by immunohistochemistry. No pharmacological treatment was prescribed. The clinical and histopathological findings were suggestive of oral lichen planus. The IL-1ß/TNF-α expression was low. There was a spontaneous regression of the lesions after approximately one year. The nine-year follow-up showed no signs of recurrence. CONCLUSION: This case presents atypical features such as the age of the patient and the spontaneous remission of the lesions.

INTRODUÇÃO: O líquen plano oral é uma condição inflamatória que acomete o epitélio escamoso estratificado da mucosa oral. Ocorre mais frequentemente em pacientes do gênero feminino e é raramente encontrado em pacientes pediátricos ou juvenis. O objetivo do presente estudo é relatar um caso de líquen plano oral em um paciente jovem com acompanhamento de nove anos. RELATO DE CASO: Um rapaz de 19 anos procurou atendimento no Departamento de Odontologia com a queixa de uma lesão branca assintomática em região de dorso e borda lateral esquerda de sua língua, com tempo de evolução de algumas semanas. Duas semanas depois, uma segunda lesão, muito similar à primeira, apareceu na região central de sua língua. Uma biópsia incisional foi realizada. As lâminas histológicas foram coradas com hematoxilina-eosina e a expressão de interleucina-1beta (IL-1ß) e de fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-α) foram avaliadas por imunohistoquímica. Nenhum tratamento farmacológico foi prescrito. Os achados clínicos e histopatológicos foram sugestivos de líquen plano oral. A expressão de IL-1ß/TNF-α foi baixa. Houve uma regressão espontânea das lesões após aproximadamente um ano. O acompanhamento de nove anos não detectou sinais de recorrência. CONCLUSÃO: Esse caso apresenta características atípicas, como a idade do paciente e a remissão espontânea das lesões.

Characterization, Antifungal Evaluation against Candida spp. Strains and Application of Nystatin: ß-cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes.

BACKGROUND: Nystatin (Nys) is a fungicidal drug commonly prescribed for candidiasis disease in several administration routes. However, Nys is a class IV drug, according to the Biopharmaceutical Classification System, that possesses limited bioavailability and is used for local activity. OBJECTIVE: This study developed and characterized nystatin:ß-cyclodextrin (Nys:ßCD) inclusion complexes and evaluated their activity against Candida spp. METHODS: Complexes were characterized by physicochemical techniques and drug dissolution profiles. The susceptibility of C. albicans, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. guilliermondii, C. tropicalis, and C. auris was assessed using the broth microdilution method. The applicability of Nys:ßCD inclusion complex was evaluated by incorporating it into a temporary soft material for denture stomatitis treatment. RESULTS: Nys was better complexed in a 1:1 molar ratio by freeze-drying and spray-drying methods. The inclusion complexes show bi-exponential release, an initial burst release followed by a sustained manner, presenting higher dissolution efficiency than raw Nys. The 1:1 freeze-drying Nys:ßCD complex presents antifungal activity against all evaluated Candida strains, showing the maintenance of the drug effectiveness. The inclusion complex incorporated into a tissue conditioner material for denture stomatitis treatment effectively inhibited more than 90% of C. albicans biofilm growth during 7 and 14 days, in a half dose compared to raw Nys. CONCLUSION: This work represents a significant contribution to treating a wide variety of diseases caused by the Candida species, optimizing the drug bioavailability and compliance to the treatment due to improved drug solubility, dissolution, and sustained delivery.

A novel rat model of denture stomatitis and the role of antibiotics in the development of the disease.

This study compared different conditions to establish a rat model of denture stomatitis. Immunocompetent Wistar rats were divided into two groups (n = 35): Tetracycline = administration of 0.83 mg/ml of tetracycline hydrochloride 7 days before induction of denture stomatitis and amoxicillin = administration of 0.156 mg/ml of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid 4 days before induction of denture stomatitis. A suspension of Candida albicans was inoculated on the palate followed by the use of a palatal device contaminated with C. albicans inoculum for 4 days to induce denture stomatitis. As controls, some rats were not submitted to any procedure or used a sterile palatal device for 4 days. The development of denture stomatitis was confirmed by visual analysis, colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/ml) count, histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses, and through myeloperoxidase (MPO) and N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAG) assays. Rats were euthanized right after device removal (T0), 4 (T4), or 6 (T6) days after device removal. Tetracycline improved the development of the disease, with more severe clinical signs at T0. Similar results were observed in the CFU/ml count and in the histometric and immunohistochemical analyses. Higher MPO expression was detected in the palates of the tetracycline group (P = .006). Despite the subtle differences between antibiotics, tetracycline showed better results in inducing and maintaining denture stomatitis for at least 4 days after device removal.

Denture stomatitis is an oral inflammatory disease with high recurrence rates. Different animal models have been reported in the literature, but some gaps still need to be addressed. A reproducible in vivo model should be established to test new treatment approaches.

A novel acrylic resin palatal device contaminated with Candida albicans biofilm for denture stomatitis induction in Wistar rats.

Denture stomatitis is the most frequent oral lesion in removable prosthesis wearers, with high recurrence rates and a complex treatment. OBJECTIVE: This study describes a protocol to obtain and to contaminate a palatal device with Candida albicans biofilm that could be used for an animal model of denture stomatitis. METHODOLOGY: Acrylic resin devices (N=41) were obtained from impressions of the palates of Wistar rats with individual trays and polyether. The efficacy of microwave irradiation (MW), ultraviolet light (UV), or ultrasonic bath (US) was assessed by colony viability and spectrophotometric analyses (n=5) in order to select the most appropriate method for sterilizing the devices. Then, different devices (n=5) were contaminated with C. albicans and evaluated by CFU/mL determination, scanning electron microscopy, and laser confocal microscopy. Device stabilization was assessed with either autopolymerizing acrylic resins or a self-adhesive resin cement (n=2). The spectrophotometric data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (α=0.05). RESULTS: MW was the only method capable of sterilizing the devices, and the contamination protocol developed a mature and viable C. albicans biofilm (~1.2 x 106 CFU/mL). The self-adhesive resin cement was the best stabilization material. CONCLUSIONS: This acrylic resin palatal device was designed to be similar to the clinical situation of contaminated prostheses, with easy manufacturing and handling, effective stabilization, and satisfactory contamination. Thus, the acrylic device can be a valuable tool in the development of denture stomatitis in rats.

A novel acrylic resin palatal device contaminated with Candida albicans biofilm for denture stomatitis induction in Wistar rats

Abstract Denture stomatitis is the most frequent oral lesion in removable prosthesis wearers, with high recurrence rates and a complex treatment. Objective This study describes a protocol to obtain and to contaminate a palatal device with Candida albicans biofilm that could be used for an animal model of denture stomatitis. Methodology Acrylic resin devices (N=41) were obtained from impressions of the palates of Wistar rats with individual trays and polyether. The efficacy of microwave irradiation (MW), ultraviolet light (UV), or ultrasonic bath (US) was assessed by colony viability and spectrophotometric analyses (n=5) in order to select the most appropriate method for sterilizing the devices. Then, different devices (n=5) were contaminated with C. albicans and evaluated by CFU/mL determination, scanning electron microscopy, and laser confocal microscopy. Device stabilization was assessed with either autopolymerizing acrylic resins or a self-adhesive resin cement (n=2). The spectrophotometric data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (α=0.05). Results MW was the only method capable of sterilizing the devices, and the contamination protocol developed a mature and viable C. albicans biofilm (~1.2 x 106 CFU/mL). The self-adhesive resin cement was the best stabilization material. Conclusions This acrylic resin palatal device was designed to be similar to the clinical situation of contaminated prostheses, with easy manufacturing and handling, effective stabilization, and satisfactory contamination. Thus, the acrylic device can be a valuable tool in the development of denture stomatitis in rats.

Candida-Associated Denture Stomatitis and Murine Models: What Is the Importance and Scientific Evidence?

Considering the high prevalence and recurrence of Candida-associated denture stomatitis (CADS), in vivo studies in animal models are necessary before those in humans to evaluate new therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to review the literature on murine models of CADS induction using acrylic intraoral devices simulating dentures. Rats are recommended as experimental animals in these models as well as the adoption of a pasty diet. For maintenance in the proper position during the experiments, intraoral appliances must be obtained by individual impressions, using and retained exclusively by cementation on the molars. The region of interest for histopathological analysis was standardized as that corresponding to the area between the first molars. However, there is no consensus among the studies on the CADS induction rat models in relation to the Candida albicans inoculation and need for immunosuppression and/or administration of antibacterial drugs of animals. The greatest difficulty of the available models refers to maintaining the course of the lesion for a sufficient period to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed treatment, considering the rapid and efficient murine immune response to candidal colonization. Therefore, future studies are necessary for the development of a robust and reproducible CADS model.

Liposomal anesthetic gel for pain control during periodontal therapy in adults: a placebo-controlled RCT.

INTRODUCTION: Periodontal therapy usually requires local anesthesia. If effective, a non-invasive, liposomal anesthetic gel could increase the levels of acceptance of patients in relation to periodontal therapy. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the efficacy of liposomal anesthetic gel for pain control during periodontal therapy. METHODOLOGY: Forty volunteers with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis were recruited, of which at least three sextants required periodontal therapy. At least one of the selected teeth had one site with a probing depth of ≥4 mm. The volunteers received the following three gels: a placebo, lidocaine/prilocaine (Oraqix®), or a liposomal lidocaine/prilocaine, which were applied to different sextants. Pain frequency was registered during treatment and the volunteers received a digital counter to register any painful or uncomfortable experiences. At the end of each session, the volunteers indicated their pain intensity using rating scales (NRS-101 and VRS-4). The volunteers had their hemodynamic parameters measured by a non-invasive digital monitor. RESULTS: Pain frequency/intensity did not show statistical difference between intervention groups. The tested gels did not interfere with the hemodynamic indices. Dental anxiety, suppuration and probing depth could influence pain during periodontal therapy. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest limited indications for the use of non-invasive anesthesia when used for scaling and root planing. Intra-pocket anesthetic gel could be a good option for anxious patients, or those who have a fear of needles.

Liposomal anesthetic gel for pain control during periodontal therapy in adults: a placebo-controlled RCT

Abstract Periodontal therapy usually requires local anesthesia. If effective, a non-invasive, liposomal anesthetic gel could increase the levels of acceptance of patients in relation to periodontal therapy. Objective: This study investigated the efficacy of liposomal anesthetic gel for pain control during periodontal therapy. Methodology: Forty volunteers with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis were recruited, of which at least three sextants required periodontal therapy. At least one of the selected teeth had one site with a probing depth of ≥4 mm. The volunteers received the following three gels: a placebo, lidocaine/prilocaine (Oraqix®), or a liposomal lidocaine/prilocaine, which were applied to different sextants. Pain frequency was registered during treatment and the volunteers received a digital counter to register any painful or uncomfortable experiences. At the end of each session, the volunteers indicated their pain intensity using rating scales (NRS-101 and VRS-4). The volunteers had their hemodynamic parameters measured by a non-invasive digital monitor. Results: Pain frequency/intensity did not show statistical difference between intervention groups. The tested gels did not interfere with the hemodynamic indices. Dental anxiety, suppuration and probing depth could influence pain during periodontal therapy. Conclusion: Our results suggest limited indications for the use of non-invasive anesthesia when used for scaling and root planing. Intra-pocket anesthetic gel could be a good option for anxious patients, or those who have a fear of needles.

A didática no ensino odontológico: percepções de docentes / Didactics in Dental education: professors' perceptions

Durante a trajetória acadêmica, os docentes são expostos a diversos desafios e dificuldades. A fim de superá-los, necessitam desenvolver habilidades específicas, em especial, a capacidade didática. O objetivo desta pesquisa exploratória descritiva foi investigar as perspectivas dos docentes de Odontologia, considerando momentos distintos de suas carreiras. A amostra constituiu-se de professores da Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa com até cinco anos de experiência universitária e com experiência superior a cinco anos. Do número total de participantes (53), apenas seis possuíam até 5 anos de atuação, portanto, foi sorteado, aleatoriamente, o mesmo número de questionários de professores com mais de 5 anos, para manter a similaridade entre os grupos. Os voluntários receberam um questionário aberto, semiestruturado e autoaplicável sobre a temática "Didática no ensino superior: desafios e perspectivas". Para a compilação e análise dos dados foram realizadas as técnicas do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo (DSC) e nuvens de palavras. Observou-se que os assuntos que receberam maior ênfase pelos professores foram o processo de ensino-aprendizagem e o relacionamento professor-aluno, principalmente quando associados a dificuldades. Conclui-se que, apesar de semelhantes, as perspectivas quanto ao exercício da docência no curso de Odontologia divergem em alguns pontos. Suas preocupações possuem diferentes focos, porém ambos os grupos revelaram sentir as mesmas dificuldades (AU).

Professors at higher education programs are exposed to challenges and obstacles. In order to overcome them, they need to develop specific skills, especially the art of teaching. The aim of this exploratory descriptive study was to investigate the perspectives of professors of Dentistry, considering different moments of their careers. The sample consisted of professors with up to five years or more than five years of teaching experience at the Ponta Grossa State University. 53 volunteers were interviewed, but from these, only six professors had up to five years of experience. Therefore, the same number of questionnaires from the group with more than five years of practice was randomized, to keep both groups similar. Participants answered an open, semi-structured and self-administered questionnaire on "Teaching in higher education: challenges and perspectives". The Discourse of the Collective Subject method (DCS) and word clouds were used for data compilation and analysis. The results showed that the questions regarding the relationship between professor and student and the teaching-learning process were highlighted. We conclude that, despite being similar, the perspectives around the teaching practice diverge in some points. Professors' concerns have different approaches, however, they face the same difficulties, no matter how experient they are (AU).