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Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Umbelliferone (UMB) on the inflammation underlying alveolar bone resorption in mouse periodontitis. Methods: Male Swiss mice subjected to a ligature of molars were grouped as non‐treated (NT), received UMB (15, 45, or 135 mg/kg) or saline daily for 7 days, respectively, and were compared with naïve mice as control. Gingival tissues were evaluated by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and interleukin‐1β level by ELISA. The bone resorption was directly assessed on the region between the cement–enamel junction and the alveolar bone crest. Microscopically, histomorphometry of the furcation region, immunofluorescence for nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐ĸB), and immunohistochemistry for tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and cathepsin K (CTSK) were performed. Systemically, body mass variation and leukogram were analyzed. Results: Periodontitis significantly increased MPO activity, interleukin‐1β level, and NF‐ĸB+ immunofluorescence, and induced severe alveolar bone and furcation resorptions, besides increased TRAP+ and CTSK+ cells compared with naïve. UMB significantly prevented the inflammation by reducing MPO activity, interleukin‐1β level, and NF‐ĸB+ intensity, besides reduction of resorption of alveolar bone and furcation area, and TRAP+ and CTSK+ cells compared with the NT group. Periodontitis or UMB treatment did not affect the animals systemically. Conclusion: UMB improved periodontitis by reducing inflammation and bone markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of genomics, significant progress has been made in the genetic improvement of livestock species, particularly through increased accuracy in predicting breeding values for selecting superior animals and the possibility of performing a high‐resolution genetic scan throughout the genome of an individual. The main objectives of this study were to estimate the individual genomic inbreeding coefficient based on runs of homozygosity (FROH), to identify and characterize runs of homozygosity and heterozygosity (ROH and ROHet, respectively; length and distribution) throughout the genome, and to map selection signatures in relevant chromosomal regions in the Quarter Horse racing line. A total of 336 animals registered with the Brazilian Association of Quarter Horse Breeders (ABQM) were genotyped. One hundred and twelve animals were genotyped using the Equine SNP50 BeadChip (Illumina, USA), with 54,602 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; 54K). The remaining 224 samples were genotyped using the Equine SNP70 BeadChip (Illumina, USA) with 65,157 SNPs (65K). To ensure data quality, we excluded animals with a call rate below 0.9. We also excluded SNPs located on non‐autosomal chromosomes, as well as those with a call rate below 0.9 or a p‐value below 1 × 10−5 for Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The results indicate moderate to high genomic inbreeding, with 46,594 ROH and 16,101 ROHet detected. In total, 30 and 14 candidate genes overlap with ROH and ROHet regions, respectively. The ROH islands showed genes linked to crucial biological processes, such as cell differentiation (CTBP1, WNT5B, and TMEM120B), regulation of glucose metabolic process (MAEA and NKX1‐1), heme transport (PGRMC2), and negative regulation of calcium ion import (VDAC1). In ROHet, the islands showed genes related to respiratory capacity (OR7D19, OR7D4G, OR7D4E, and OR7D4J) and muscle repair (EGFR and BCL9). These findings could aid in selecting animals with greater regenerative capacity and developing treatments for muscle disorders in the QH breed. This study serves as a foundation for future research on equine breeds. It can contribute to developing reproductive strategies in animal breeding programs to improve and preserve the Quarter Horse breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fanconi anaemia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder marked by progressive bone marrow failure, chromosomal fragility, and increased cancer susceptibility. Laboratory diagnosis includes chromosomal instability test and mutation investigation. A total of 15%–25% of all patients may have somatic mosaicism, characterized by two distinct haematopoietic cell populations, one resistant and one sensitive to agents that induce chromosomal breakage, which complicates the diagnosis by a high incidence of reverted cells leading to inconclusive or false‐negative results. The study aimed to evaluate the use of bone marrow stromal mesenchymal cells (BM‐MSCs) as an alternative, non‐haematopoietic tissue for diagnosis. Methods: Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells from 12 patients with positive diepoxybutane (DEB) tests were cultivated and analysed by cytogenetics and mutation investigation. Results: The DEB test was performed at 0.1 and 0.01 μg/ml concentrations, with an index ranging from 0.24 to 1.00. At higher concentration, the metaphases number was lower, probably due to toxicity. Regarding the molecular investigation, all the mutations previously found in peripheral blood were identified on BM‐MSC. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the possibility of using BM‐MSCs as an alternative tissue for cytogenetic and molecular investigation. Future tests using an intermediate DEB concentration may lead to an optimal protocol that could be non‐toxic to cells but provides conclusive results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose/Objectives: To understand the professional aspirations of oral and maxillofacial radiologists (OMRs) by exploring their career choices and their association with educational background, engagement in professional activities, professional values, and overall level of career satisfaction. Methods: This prospective cross‐sectional study surveyed board‐certified OMRs in the United States and Canada from September to December 2019. A web‐based questionnaire was created comprising 37 multiple‐choice questions and an open‐ended question focusing on their opinions regarding the profession's future. A thematic approach qualitatively explored open questions. Results: Of the 86 OMRs, 68, 10, and eight were board certified in the United States, Canada, and both countries, respectively. Activities considered "rewarding" included teaching and mentoring (65%) and radiologic reporting (55%). The majority spent approximately 20–30 h/week writing radiographic reports and less than 10 h in research. On an average, OMRs produced 21.9 (SD 12.8) reports per day. Activities considered less rewarding included administrative work (11%) and productivity pressure in institutions. OMRs working in academia reported higher incomes (p < 0.05). Finally, the majority of the OMRs were pleased with their career choices (79%). Conclusions: There is an association between the contemporary OMRs' satisfaction feeling, teaching/mentoring, and the future challenges of participating in multidisciplinary teams. Overall, diverse career choices lead OMRs to be proud of their profession and significantly satisfied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When educators adopt flipped learning in their courses, online sources are assigned for students to study prior to class, and then the class period is devoted to face‐to‐face (F2F) interactions. The aims of this systematic review were to evaluate published research on the effectiveness of flipped learning for dental students' learning and on dental students' perceptions of the model and to report the results based on the first two phases of Kirkpatrick's model: reaction and learning. A systematic review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis Protocols (PRISMA‐P) was performed. Articles in which the objective was to determine the effectiveness of students' learning or students' perceptions of flipped learning in both dental and advanced dental education were collected. The Risk of Bias of the included studies was assessed using the MINORS Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) Summary of Findings table. The authors screened the title and abstract of 650 studies; after application of inclusion criteria, eight articles remained for analysis. In those studies, a total of 572 dental students were participants. The effectiveness of flipped learning and conventional lectures was compared in five of the eight studies; three of the studies compared students' perceptions of flipped learning and the conventional format; and four of the studies assessed students' perceptions of flipped learning without comparison to another methodology. The findings suggest that flipped learning was an effective way to deliver knowledge in these eight studies. Time flexibility was a particular asset found in this review since flipped learning allowed each student to assimilate the educational material at her or his own pace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study assessed senior dental hygiene (DH) students' self‐reported confidence in interpreting dental radiographs following the introduction of a blended learning (BL) module for radiology interpretation. The assessment of students was conducted five months prior to graduation. Methods: A BL oral radiology module was designed. In order to capture the context, descriptions and differences of students' experience and confidence, a qualitative research approach was selected. Data were captured using a semi‐structured interview process and analysed using phenomenographic methods. Results: Sixteen students were interviewed. Blinded transcripts were analysed, and the main themes relating to confidence were extracted and arranged into categories. The categories were coded as to how confident (low, medium or high) each of the students felt specific to varying contexts and complexities of radiographic interpretation. Conclusion: Predominately, the BL model had a positive impact on DH students' confidence in the interpretation of radiographic findings. However, when asked about their level of overall confidence in interpreting dental radiographs, students still did not describe themselves as confident for all potential findings on radiographs at this point in their education. The students highlighted the importance of having patient history details and clinical assessment findings included in the interpretation exercises and expressed a desire to collaborate with other professionals when interpreting radiographs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the potential use of dental imaging assessment of trabecular bone structure in the maxillomandibular complex as an adjuvant screening tool to identify systemic disorders. Five electronic databases and grey literature were searched. Studies were included if they investigated subjects with altered trabecular bone determined by dental radiographs. The QUADAS‐2 assessed the risk of bias (RoB) among the studies, while the GRADE determined the strength of evidence. A total of 14 studies that included 1,466 individuals were considered eligible for the qualitative analysis. All studies presented an overall low RoB and low concern regarding applicability. Systemic disorders such as osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, diabetes, and primary hyperparathyroidism, with their respective control groups, were analyzed among the included studies. Osteoporosis was the condition presenting the most significant results, and 72% of the studies detected changes in the maxillomandibular trabecular bone structure. Studies exploring diabetic edentulous patients found less dense trabecular bone pattern (p < 0.05). In summary, periapical and panoramic radiographs, computed tomography, and cone beam computed tomography imaging could be considered useful for the assessment of the mandibular trabecular bone structure of patients affected by osteoporosis and patients with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Sound evidence supports a role for interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) ‐producing γδ T cells and IL‐17‐producing helper T (Th17) cells in intestinal homeostasis, especially in intestinal barrier integrity. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the role of IL‐17 cytokine in the regulation of intestinal immunity and obesity‐induced metabolic syndrome (MetS) in an experimental murine model. C57BL/6 wild‐type (WT) mice and mice lacking the IL‐17 cytokine receptor (IL‐17RA−/−) were fed either a control diet (CD) or a high‐fat diet (HFD) for 9 weeks. Our data demonstrate that IL‐17RA−/− mice are protected against obesity, but develop hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance. In parallel, HFD‐fed IL‐17RA−/− mice display intense inflammation in the ileum compared with WT mice on the HFD. IL‐17RA−/− mice fed the HFD exhibit impaired neutrophil migration to the intestinal mucosa and reduced gene expression of the CXCL‐1 chemokine and CXCR‐2 receptor in the ileum. Interestingly, the populations of neutrophils (CD11b+ Ly6G+) and anti‐inflammatory macrophages (CD11b+ CX3CR1+) are increased in the mesenteric lymph nodes of these mice. IL‐17RA−/− mice on the HFD also display increased commensal bacterial translocation into the bloodstream and elevated lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in the visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Metagenomic analysis of bacterial 16S gene revealed increased Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes phyla, the main representatives of Gram‐negative bacteria, and reduced Akkermansia muciniphila in the fecal samples of IL‐17RA−/− mice fed the HFD. Together, these data indicate that the IL‐17/IL‐17R axis drives intestinal neutrophil migration, limits gut dysbiosis and attenuates LPS translocation to VAT, resulting in protection to MetS. Deficiency of the gene encoding the interleukin‐17 cytokine receptor (IL‐17RA) in mice protected against high‐fat diet (HFD) ‐induced obesity, but promoted hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Additionally, IL‐17RA−/− mice exhibited intense intestinal inflammation associated with defective neutrophil migration to intestinal mucosa and decreased expression of the chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand‐1 (CXCL‐1) in the ileum. Importantly, IL‐17RA−/− mice had augmented abundance of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes phyla in the gut microbiota, increased intestinal permeability and increased lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in the visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Overall, IL‐17 cytokine confers resistance to metabolic syndrome by inducing neutrophil migration to the intestinal mucosa through CXCL‐1, limiting gut dysbiosis and controlling LPS translocation to the VAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work deals with polycaprolactone/babassu compounds having two types of filler, derived from the fruit of the babassu palm. PCL compounds with 10%, 20%, and 30% of epicarp and mesocarp of babassu were prepared in an internal laboratory mixer and their morphology, rheological characteristics, and thermal properties, were determined as a function of the type and content of the load. Melt viscosity increases with filler incorporation and loading levels, and at the same loading level the viscosity of epicarp compounds is higher. Rheological analysis indicates that PCL melts behave as Newtonian liquids while subjected to shear rates in the range 10–100 s−1. DSC data shows babassu promotes PCL melt crystallization, shifting crystallization peak to higher temperatures and increasing crystallization rate. Crystallinity increases steadily with filler content and shows a weak dependence on filler type. Optical microscopy shows higher particle size and particle agglomeration at higher filler contents. SEM analysis shows poor adhesion polymer/filler interface. Small round particles, perceived as background in the images were attributed to the presence of starch granules. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E540–E549, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper describes the electrochemical activity of a Ni(II)‐Schiff base metallopolymer electrode for the oxidation of ethanol in alkaline media. The scanning electron microscope results show that the metallopolymer at the glassy carbon surface has a nanoflake‐like lamellar structure, and there is no molecular structural change after treatment with NaOH. Voltammetry measurements indicate that the metallopolymer acts as efficient material for the electrocatalytic oxidation of ethanol, where a high‐valent nickel(IV) was revealed as the reactive intermediate during the anodic scan. An isopotential point can be observed in rotating disk electrode voltammetry for ethanol oxidation. The electrode surface may be considered to consist of two independent electrochemical regions, one corresponding to the ethanol electro‐oxidation by nickel(IV) and the second corresponding to water oxidation. The Tafel slopes were found to be 246 mV dec−1 at low overpotentials and 44 mV dec−1 at high overpotentials, which suggest that the first electron transfer step is the rate controlling step. The specific activity of the metallopolymer‐modified electrode for the ethanol electro‐oxidation reaction was 6.66 mA cm−2 for 0.130 μmol cm−2 of electroactive species of metallopolymer at 0.6 V vs. SCE. The activity of a Ni(II)‐Schiff base metallopolymer electrodes for ethanol oxidation is investigated in alkaline media. Tafel slopes of 246 mV dec−1 at low overpotentials and 44 mV dec−1 at high overpotentials are found, suggesting that the first electron transfer step is rate controlling. An isopotential point is observed, revealing that the electrode surface may be considered to consist of two independent electrochemical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes currently affects more than 400 million people worldwide. This metabolic disorder causes various micro‐ and macrovascular complications that accelerate atherosclerosis and yet trigger other cardiovascular diseases. The characteristic frame of hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinaemia and hyperlipidaemia in diabetes increases several inflammatory mediators leading to endothelial dysfunction and pro‐atherosclerotic processes. This MiniReview summarizes evidence that antidiabetic drugs have effects beyond lowering glycaemic levels. In experimental studies, antidiabetic drugs reduce the vascular production and release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, the recruitment, infiltration and activation of immune cells and pro‐inflammatory mediators, thus decreasing vascular inflammatory responses; they also re‐establish vascular redox homeostasis by reducing oxidative stress and balancing the release of vasoconstrictor and vasodilator factors, hence contributing to the improvement of endothelial function. These effects are associated with a reduction in vascular remodelling due to decreased matrix metalloproteinases expression/activity, reduced inflammatory processes and vascular wall fibrosis. In clinical studies, antidiabetic drugs also reduce the production and release of pro‐inflammatory, pro‐atherosclerotic and pro‐oxidative mediators and improve flow‐mediated dilatation, indicating beneficial effects on endothelial function. These bonus effects of antidiabetic drugs may delay and/or reduce the installation and development of the atherosclerotic disease, decrease cardiovascular risk and possibly impact mortality risk, life expectancy and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We addressed the role of interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) in driving the intestinal T helper type 17 (Th17) response during obesity and metabolic syndrome progression induced by a high‐fat diet (HFD). Diet‐induced obese and lean mice received HFD or control diet (CTD), respectively, for 20 weeks. The nutritional, metabolic and immune parameters were examined at weeks 9 and 20. Gene and protein IL‐23p19 and IL‐23 receptor expression was increased in the ileum of obese wild‐type mice (WT) fed the HFD for 9 weeks. Mice lacking IL‐23 and fed the HFD exhibited greater weight gain, higher fat accumulation, adipocyte hypertrophy and hepatic steatosis. Notably, these mice had more glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and associated metabolic alterations, such as hyperinsulinaemia and hyperlipidaemia. IL‐23 deficiency also significantly reduced protein levels of IL‐17, CCL20 and neutrophil elastase in the ileum and reduced Th17 cell expansion in the mesenteric lymph nodes of the HFD mice. Of importance, IL‐23‐deficient mice exhibited increased gut permeability and blood bacterial translocation compared with WT mice fed HFD. Finally, metagenomics analysis of gut microbiota revealed a dramatic outgrowth of Bacteroidetes over Firmicutes phylum with the prevalence of Bacteroides genera in the faeces of IL‐23‐deficient mice after HFD. In summary, IL‐23 appears to maintain the Th17 response and neutrophil migration into the intestinal mucosa, minimizing the gut dysbiosis and protecting against obesity and metabolic disease development in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The meaning ascribed to suicidal behaviours may influence the quality of the care provided to people at risk of suicide. Such a phenomenon has yet to be properly investigated amongst nursing undergraduate students, the aim of this study being to gain an understanding of the meanings of suicidal behaviour for a particular group of nurses. The study, which utilized grounded theory, was conducted in Brazil in 2016–2017 with 30 undergraduate students. The findings indicated that suicidal behaviour, classified according to the individual beliefs and judgements of the participants, presented a significant barrier to the delivery of care and was complex and multifaceted care phenomenon. Participants were often reluctant to discuss the topic, seemingly wanting to distance themselves from the care of persons exhibiting suicidal behaviour, and to avoid professional engagements relating to suicide prevention. Significant work is required in raising both an awareness and knowledge of suicidal behaviour befitting the promotion of tolerance, emotional competency, resilience, and empathy amongst nursing students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A guiding principle of radiation safety is ensuring that radiation dosage is as low as possible while yielding the necessary diagnostic information. Intraoral images taken with conventional dental film have a higher re-exposure rate when taken by dental students compared to experienced staff. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of and reasons for re-exposure of digital intraoral images taken by third- and fourth-year dental students in a dental school clinic. At one dental school in Canada, the total number of intraoral images taken by third- and fourth-year dental students, re-exposures, and error descriptions were extracted from patient clinical records for an eight-month period (September 2015 to April 2016). The data were categorized to distinguish between digital images taken with solid-state sensors or photostimulable phosphor plates (PSP). The results showed that 9,397 intraoral images were made, and 1,064 required re-exposure. The most common error requiring re-exposure for bitewing images was an error in placement of the receptor too far mesially or distally (29% for sensors and 18% for PSP). The most common error requiring re-exposure for periapical images was inadequate capture of the periapical area (37% for sensors and 6% for PSP). A retake rate of 11% was calculated, and the common technique errors causing image deficiencies were identified. Educational intervention can now be specifically designed to reduce the retake rate and radiation dose for future patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix metalloproteinase ( MMP)-2 participates in hypertension-induced maladaptive vascular remodelling by degrading extra- and intracellular proteins. The consequent extracellular matrix rearrangement and phenotype switch of vascular smooth muscle cells ( VSMCs) lead to increased cellular migration and proliferation. As calponin-1 degradation by MMP-2 may lead to VSMC proliferation during hypertension, the hypothesis of this study is that increased MMP-2 activity contributes to early hypertension-induced maladaptive remodelling in conductance and resistance arteries via regulation of calponin-1. The main objective was to analyse whether MMP-2 exerts similar effects on the structure and function of the resistance and conductance arteries during early hypertension. Two-kidney, one-clip (2K-1C) hypertensive male rats and corresponding controls were treated with doxycycline (30 mg/kg/day) or water until reaching one week of hypertension. Systolic blood pressure was increased in 2K-1C rats, and doxycycline did not reduce it. Aortas and mesenteric arteries were analysed. MMP-2 activity and expression were increased in both arteries, and doxycycline reduced it. Significant hypertrophic remodelling and VSMC proliferation were observed in aortas but not in mesenteric arteries of 2K-1C rats. The contractility of mesenteric arteries to phenylephrine was increased in 2K-1C rats, and doxycycline prevented this alteration. The potency of phenylephrine to contract aortas of 2K-1C rats was increased, and doxycycline decreased it. Whereas calponin-1 expression was increased in 2K-1C mesenteric arteries, calponin-1 was reduced in aortas. Doxycycline treatment reverted changes in calponin-1 expression. MMP-2 contributes to hypertrophic remodelling in aortas by decreasing calponin-1 levels, which may result in VSMC proliferation. On the other hand, MMP-2-dependent increased calponin-1 in mesenteric arteries may contribute to vascular hypercontractility in 2K-1C rats. Divergent regulation of calponin-1 by MMP-2 may be an important mechanism that leads to maladaptive vascular effects in hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, seeds from yellow melon (Cucumis melo l.), considered an industrial and domestic waste, were used as an oleaginous source to produce biodiesel by transesterification reaction in methanol and due to the importance and the lack of data, a study of phase equilibrium of the system biodiesel + methanol + glycerin was also conducted. The mean molecular mass the theoretical mass of biodiesel, and the conversion rate of the reaction were calculated. For the liquid-liquid study, Othmer-Tobias and Hand correlations were applied to evaluate the data reliability of the tie-lines and the NRTL and UNIQUAC models were used to predict the phase equilibrium. The results showed that oil from melon seeds could be a new alternative for the production of biodiesel, with a conversion rate close to 85%. The equilibrium data showed that the biodiesel obtained from melon seeds oil presented advantage in the production process, since the biodiesel is easily separated from the methanol and glycerol in the separation step, avoiding additional costs with steps of purification. Among the models evaluated, better agreement in the results was observed when NRTL was used (s.d. = 1.25%), followed by UNIQUAC model (s.d. 2.70%). © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 325-332, 2017 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The aim of this study was to investigate dental disorders of brown howler monkeys maintained in captivity. The hypothesis is that the identification and diagnosis of the lesions may contribute to control and prevention. Methods Sixteen intact brown howler monkeys ( Alouatta guariba clamitans), eight females and eight males, weighing from 3.9 to 6.8 kg, were studied. Under general anesthesia, the teeth were evaluated by visual inspection, probing, palpation, and intra-oral radiographic exam. The findings were registered on a dental chart specific for primates. Result Of the 16 monkeys evaluated in the present study, 94% (n = 15) had some type of dental disorder. The lesions observed were dental calculus (88%), dental wear (81%), missing teeth (38%), gingivitis (19%), gingival recession (6%), dental fracture (19%), pulp exposure (19%), and dental staining (25%). Conclusions Alouatta guariba clamitans maintained in captivity have a high rate of dental problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim The oral manifestations of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have been reported in the recent literature. Therefore, there has been growing interest in the characterization of the dento-osseous anomalies because they may precede colorectal cancer and may be used as a diagnostic marker. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the published evidence for what are the oral manifestations of FAP and their frequency in affected individuals. Methods The search was performed at Cochrane Library, EMBASE, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles published up to March 2015. A grey literature search was conducted through Google Scholar. Reference lists of the included articles and additional studies identified by expert were screened for potential relevant studies. The methodology of selected studies was evaluated using the risk of bias checklist of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Results Twenty observational studies totalizing 1635 individuals affected by FAP met the inclusion criteria. Osseous, dental, and oral mucosa alterations were observed in FAP patients. The meta-analysis showed the frequency of osseous jaw lesions, and the dental anomalies were 65.35% and 30.48%, respectively, and two studies suggested that oral mucosa vascular density is a phenotypic manifestation in patients with FAP. Most of the studies were evaluated as moderate risk of bias. Conclusion The most frequent oral manifestation on FAP patients is osseous jaw alterations. In the future, well-designed studies are necessary to classify osseous and dental anomalies in order to demonstrate the true prevalence of each alteration separately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, new glass compositions were prepared in the ternary system GeO2- K2 O- Ta2 O5. Potassium oxide was added to reach the complete melt of the starting mixture and two composition series were investigated: the first one with a constant K2 O molar content of 10% in the ternary system (90- x) GeO2-10 K2 O- x Ta2 O5 and the second one with the same molar content of K2 O and Ta2 O5 in the ternary system (100-2 x) GeO2- x K2 O- x Ta2 O5. Homogeneous and transparent glasses could be obtained between x = 0 and 20. X-ray diffraction analyzes of samples with x = 25 identified orthorhombic Ta2 O5 in the first series and an isostructure of K3.8 Ge3 Nb5 O20.4 in the second series where it is assumed that Ta5+ ions are inserted in the Nb5+ sites. As one of our goal with these materials is related with the preparation of glass-ceramics containing Ta2 O5 nanocrystals, the first series has been selected for further characterizations. An increase in glass-transition temperatures with increasing Ta2 O5 content as well as an increase of the thermal stability from x = 0 to 10 has been identified by differential scanning calorimetry. For higher contents, crystallization events were identified. Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopic characterizations allowed to point out the intermediary behavior of Ta2 O5 in the vitreous network where TaO6 octahedra are inserted inside the germanate network with TaO6 clusters identified at higher Ta2 O5 contents. Heat-treated samples with high tantalum contents ( x = 15 and 20) exhibit preferential precipitation of orthorhombic Ta2 O5 with nanometric size, suggesting the possibility of obtaining transparent glass-ceramics for optical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to elaborate prebiotic yoghurt using ovine milk and different inulin concentrations (0, 2 and 6%). Samples were submitted to laboratory analysis and two sensory tests with 100 consumers. The results of apparent viscosity and firmness determined by instrumental analysis of each yoghurt and control differed significantly. Just-About-Right showed consistency as the main attribute that varied in treatments. According to penalty analysis, prebiotic yoghurt containing 6% inulin had minor penalties, which indicates its advantage in the quest to better consumer demands. Hence, this treatment demonstrated better results as well as the many prebiotic benefits associated with an adequate fibre amount. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperglycemia leads to the formation of free radicals and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Antioxidants can reduce the level of protein glycation and DNA damage. In this study, we compared the levels of vitamin C intake, which is among the most abundant antioxidants obtained from diet, with the levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (A1C), DNA damage, and cytotoxicity in prediabetic subjects and type 2 diabetic subjects. Our results indicated that there was no significant correlation between FPG or A1C and DNA damage parameters (micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges, and nuclear buds). FPG and A1C correlated with necrosis (r = 0.294; P = 0.013 and r = 0.401; P = 0.001, resp.). Vitamin C intake correlated negatively with necrosis and apoptosis (r = -0.246; P = 0.040, and r = -0.276; P = 0.021, resp.). The lack of a correlation between the FPG and A1C and DNA damage could be explained, at least in part, by the elimination of cells with DNA damage by either necrosis or apoptosis (cytotoxicity). Vitamin C appeared to improve cell survival by reducing cytotoxicity. Therefore, the present results indicate the need for clinical studies to evaluate the effect of low-dose vitamin C supplementation in type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lima L M C, de Souza L R, da Silva T F, Pereira C S, Guimarães A L S, de Paula A M B & Carvalho H A (2012) Histopathology 60, 489-496 DNA repair gene excision repair cross complementing-group 1 (ERCC1) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: analysis of methylation and polymorphism (G19007A), protein expression and association with epidemiological and clinicopathological factors Aims: To evaluate the associations of excision repair cross complementing-group 1 (ERCC1) (DNA repair protein) (G19007A) polymorphism, methylation and immunohistochemical expression with epidemiological and clinicopathological factors and with overall survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. Methods and results: The study group comprised 84 patients with HNSCC who underwent surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy without chemotherapy. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used. The allele A genotype variant was observed in 79.8% of the samples, GG in 20.2%, GA in 28.6% and AA in 51.2%. Individuals aged more than 45 years had a higher prevalence of the allelic A variant and a high (83.3%) immunohistochemical expression of ERCC1 protein [odds ratio (OR) = 4.86, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-19.7, P = 0.027], which was also high in patients with advanced stage (OR=5.04, 95% CI: 1.07-23.7, P = 0.041). Methylated status was found in 51.2% of the samples, and was higher in patients who did not present distant metastasis (OR = 6.67, 95% CI: 1.40-33.33, P = 0.019) and in patients with advanced stage (OR = 5.04, 95% CI: 1.07-23.7, P = 0.041). At 2 and 5 years, overall survival was 55% and 36%, respectively (median = 30 months). Conclusion: Our findings may reflect a high rate of DNA repair due to frequent tissue injury during the lifetime of these individuals, and also more advanced disease presentation in this population with worse prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Souza L R, Fonseca-Silva T, Pereira C S, Santos E P, Lima L C, Carvalho H A, Gomez R S, Guimarães A L S & De Paula A M B (2011) Histopathology, 352-360 This study has compared the tissue expression of the p53 tumour suppressor protein and DNA repair proteins APE1, hMSH2 and ERCC1 in normal, dysplastic and malignant lip epithelium. Morphological analysis and immunohistochemistry were performed on archived specimens of normal lip mucosa ( n = 15), actinic cheilitis (AC) ( n = 30), and lip squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) ( n = 27). AC samples were classified morphologically according to the severity of epithelial dysplasia and risk of malignant transformation. LSCC samples were morphologically staged according to WHO and invasive front grading (IFG) criteria. Differences between groups and morphological stages were determined by bivariate statistical analysis. Progressive increases in the percentage of epithelial cells expressing p53 and APE1 were associated with increases in morphological malignancy from normal lip mucosa to LSCC. There was also a significant reduction in epithelial cells expressing hMSH2 and ERCC1 proteins in the AC and LSCC groups. A higher percentage of malignant cells expressing APE1 was found in samples with an aggressive morphological IFG grade. Our data showed that epithelial cells from premalignant to malignant lip disease exhibited changes in the expression of p53, APE1, hMSH2 and ERCC1 proteins; these molecular change might contribute to lip carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze the cases of patients with a histological diagnosis of fibrous mastopathy, diabetic mastopathy, or lymphocytic mastopathy in association with other autoimmune diseases, and to conduct histological and imaging studies as well as follow up of the lesions. Methods: Thirty-one patients meeting predetermined histopathological criteria for diabetic mastopathy, fibrous mastopathy, or lymphocytic mastopathy were analyzed for several factors: age at diagnosis; clinical manifestations; parity; breastfeeding; use of sex steroids for hormonal replacement therapy or hormonal contraception; associated diseases; mammographic findings; breast magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound; histological and cytological diagnosis; immunohistochemical and immunophenotyping identification of T- and B-lymphocytes and macrophages, and α-smooth muscle actin; and follow up. Results: Fibrous mastopathy was present among diabetic and non-diabetic patients, patients with autoimmune diseases, and healthy individuals. Relapses were found in one-quarter of the lesions and spontaneous regression was observed in one case. There was a predominance of T-lymphocytes over B-lymphocytes in the fibrous mastopathic lesions ( P < 0.001). Macrophages were demonstrated in 95.2% of the lesions. All of the lesions displayed reactivity for α-smooth muscle actin, a characteristic of myofibroblasts. Conclusions: Fibrous mastopathy does not occur in diabetic patients only; fibrous mastopathy may also occur in healthy subjects; the lesion is characterized by a higher number of T-lymphocytes over B-lymphocytes, the presence of absolute lobular lymphocytic infiltrate, reactivity for α-smooth muscle actin, and macrophages. Relapses were found in one-quarter of the lesions and spontaneous regression was observed in one case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. The role of growth hormone (GH) in cardiac remodelling and function in chronic and persistent pressure overload-induced left ventricular hypertrophy has not been defined. The aim of the present study was to assess short-term GH treatment on left ventricular function and remodelling in rats with chronic pressure overload-induced hypertrophy. 2. Twenty-six weeks after induction of ascending aortic stenosis (AAS), rats were treated with daily subcutaneous injections of recombinant human GH (1 mg/kg per day; AAS-GH group) or saline (AAS-P group) for 14 days. Sham-operated animals served as controls. Left ventricular function was assessed by echocardiography before and after GH treatment. Myocardial fibrosis was evaluated by histological analysis. 3. Before GH treatment, AAS rats presented similar left ventricular function and structure. Treatment of rats with GH after the AAS procedure did not change bodyweight or heart weight, both of which were higher in the AAS groups than in the controls. After GH treatment, posterior wall shortening velocity (PWSV) was lower in the AAS-P group than in the control group. However, in the AAS-GH group, PWSV was between that in the control and AAS-P groups and did not differ significantly from either group. Fractional collagen (% of total area) was significantly higher in the AAS-P and AAS-GH groups compared with control (10.34 ± 1.29, 4.44 ± 1.37 and 1.88 ± 0.88%, respectively; P < 0.05) and was higher still in the AAS-P group compared with the AAS-GH group. 4. The present study has shown that short-term administration of GH to rats with chronic pressure overload-induced left ventricular hypertrophy induces cardioprotection by attenuating myocardial fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphoscintigraphy is the technique of choice for sentinel lymph node detection in women with early breast cancer, but there is limited information evaluating the value of this technique in animals. We investigated mammary lymphatic drainage in 25 young female mongrel dogs by intramammary injection of 18.5 MBq of 99mTc-dextran (70,000 Da). Lymph node anatomical referencing was obtained using an external marker, bone scintigraphy, or scintiscanning the body contour. Cranial and caudal thoracic mammary glands drained into the cranial sternal lymph node and axillary lymph center. The cranial thoracic mammary gland also drained into the superficial cervical lymph node in two of five animals. The cranial abdominal gland was drained by the axillary lymph center. The caudal abdominal mammary gland was drained by the superficial inguinal lymph node in all animals and simultaneously by medial iliac lymph nodes in four of five animals. In one dog, this mammary gland was also drained by the mediastinal and the superficial cervical lymph nodes. The inguinal mammary gland was drained by superficial inguinal lymph nodes and simultaneously via the medial iliac lymph node in one animal. Lymphatic communications between lymph nodes were identified in 11 of 25 (44%) animals. 99mTc-dextran mammary lymphoscintigraphy was easy and rapid to perform and may provide valuable information for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the early postoperative period of Cushing's disease patients, desmopressin may stimulate ACTH secretion in the remnant corticotrophic tumour, but not in nontumour suppressed cells. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the serum cortisol responses to desmopressin after pituitary surgery, establishing an optimal cut-off for absolute increment (Δ) of serum cortisol ( F) suitable to predict recurrence risk. Design Retrospective case record study. Patients Fifty-seven Cushing's disease patients submitted to pituitary surgery and desmopressin stimulation in the early postoperative with a long-term follow-up (20–161 months) were studied. Methods and measurements Serum cortisol levels after desmopressin test (10 µg IV) 15–30 days after adenomectomy were used to determine Δ F (absolute increment of F: F peak −  F baseline). Sensitivity and specificity of Δ F were calculated and a ROC curve was performed to establish an optimal cut-off for Δ F to predict recurrence risk. Results Fifteen patients had immediate postoperative failure (basal F > 165 nmol/l; 6 µg/dl) and one patient was lost during the follow-up. Forty-one patients achieved initial remission and were followed-up. Five of 11 patients who recurred had Δ F > 193 nmol/l (7 µg/dl), but none of 30 patients who remained in prolonged remission showed Δ F > 193 nmol/l after postoperative desmopressin stimulation. Conclusions Persistence of cortisol response (Δ F > 193 nmol/l) to desmopressin in the early postoperative period can help to identify Cushing's disease patients with initial remission who present risk for later recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, economic analysis of the production of extracts and essential oils of rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis), fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare) and anise ( Pimpinella anisum) by supercritical fluid extraction and steam distillation are discussed. The manufacturing cost (COM) was determined considering that the COM can be obtained in terms of the costs of investment, operational labour, raw materials, waste treatment and utilities. The manufacturing cost was also estimated considering that the essential oil content in SFE extracts varies (50-100%). The analysis showed that the supercritical fluid extraction is economically viable to obtain these vegetable extracts and essential oils. The higher costs of essential oils obtained by steam distillation were mainly caused by the lower yield and the higher energy consumption of this process. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the global yields, composition and antioxidant activity (AA) of extracts from lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla ) and mango (Mangifera indica ) leaves obtained by different separation processes were determined. Lemon verbena extracts were obtained by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), while mango leaf extracts were obtained by SFE, low-pressure solvent extraction (LPSE) and hydrodistillation. The extract's constituents were analyzed by thin-layer chromatography, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and gas chromatography/flame ionization detector. The AA of the extracts was evaluated by the coupled reaction of β -carotene/linolenic acid. The cost of manufacturing (COM) was estimated for the SFE extracts. Higher global yields were obtained using SFE at 350 bar/45C (1.49%) for lemon verbena and LPSE (3.04%) for mango. The AAs of the extracts were larger than that of the β -carotene for both plants. The minimum values of COM were U.S.$26.96 and 52.45/kg of extract for lemon verbena and mango, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Malay apple is a fruit tree found in northeastern Brazil; little is known about the composition and properties of its fruit, which motivated the present study. Among natural antioxidants, anthocyanins are pigments responsible for the red and blue coloring of a wide range of food plants. There is a growing interest in their use by the pharmaceutical industry; however, their sensitivity to environmental factors means processing is required to ensure their stability. Spray‐drying has proved to be effective in this regard. The aim of this study was to dry Malay apple skin extract by two different methods (spray‐ and freeze‐drying) and analyze the physical and chemical properties, morphology, and bioactive compounds of the products obtained, in order to assess the preservation of the antioxidants and conduct a preliminary study on their possible encapsulation. The results indicated that it is possible to obtain a powder with low humidity and preserved biocharacteristics using freeze‐ and spray‐drying, with high yield. When compared to the freeze‐dried product, the spray‐drying conserved the bioactive compounds and provided smaller size distribution than that obtained by freeze‐drying. The results obtained by spray‐drying showed favorable for use in controlled release systems. Practical applications: This work had as practical applications the use of a local and almost industrially unexplored fruit, the Malay apple, as a product rich in anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds for use as food additive and with potential use in cosmetics, since the compounds obtained, anthocyanins, have proven antioxidant capacity. Bioactive compounds from the peel of the Malay apple were determined for the first time. The spray‐drying process maintains much of the bioactive characteristics of the Malay apple skin. The freeze‐drying process is more effective in preserving the properties of the skin of the Malay apple. The zeta potential of the Malay apple was determined for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperglycemia leads to the formation of free radicals and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Antioxidants can reduce the level of protein glycation and DNA damage. In this study, we compared the levels of vitamin C intake, which is among the most abundant antioxidants obtained from diet, with the levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (A1C), DNA damage, and cytotoxicity in prediabetic subjects and type 2 diabetic subjects. Our results indicated that there was no significant correlation between FPG or A1C and DNA damage parameters (micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges, and nuclear buds). FPG and A1C correlated with necrosis (r = 0.294; P = 0.013 and r = 0.401; P = 0.001, resp.). Vitamin C intake correlated negatively with necrosis and apoptosis (r = -0.246; P = 0.040, and r = -0.276; P = 0.021, resp.). The lack of a correlation between the FPG and A1C and DNA damage could be explained, at least in part, by the elimination of cells with DNA damage by either necrosis or apoptosis (cytotoxicity). Vitamin C appeared to improve cell survival by reducing cytotoxicity. Therefore, the present results indicate the need for clinical studies to evaluate the effect of low-dose vitamin C supplementation in type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]