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Abstract Background L-arginine (Arg) is an amino acid that contributes to several aspects of human biochemistry. Individuals with malnutrition and certain physical conditions could benefit from arginine intake. However, as Arg is required by certain viruses, it is advised to avoid it in one's diet and supplementation during viral illnesses. New studies have emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, and pioneering research has been reviewed. Main body of the abstract The purpose of this review is to determine when and why Arg depletion, supplementation, or avoidance is advisable, considering the divergent results. A narrative review was conducted by surveying scientific publications indexed in electronic databases. Studies published from 1960 up to 2024, with no language restrictions, were included. Arg comes from proteins in the human diet. The kidney is the main site of endogenous Arg synthesis and also responsible for the overall metabolism of this amino acid, participating in synthesis, degradation and reabsorption. The liver can synthesize Arg, but since this is completely recycled in the urea cycle, it contributes little or no to the Arg plasma flux. Arg present in diet is passively absorbed in the small intestine and also transformed into urea and ornithine via urea cycle in hepatocytes. It is associated with macrophage metabolism, vasomotor control, intracellular signaling, memory formation, immune response, and an important messenger of the bronchopulmonary, cardiovascular and neural systems. Thus, excessive or decreased Arg concentration could impair health condition. High Arg concentrations stimulated rapid reactivation and resumption of protein synthesis in some viruses. Conclusion According to research, caution should be exercised when supplementing or depleting the amino acid arginine. Individuals who are carriers of latent viruses, such as herpesviruses, and/or who have been exposed to other viruses studied, should avoid arginine supplements and the consumption of foods rich in arginine. However, as prophylaxis or antiviral therapy, control of arginine intake as well as the use of lysine supplements, its antagonist, is recommended for short periods starting after a possible viral exposure, or in face of stimuli that can remove viruses from their latent state and/or at the very beginning of the viral manifestation, in order to avoid a large viral multiplication and consequently control the infection. Long-term arginine depletion can significantly affect cellular metabolism and its use as supplemental therapy needs case-by-case evaluation. Graphical abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the bacterial sealing of the abutment interface and implant in the conical connection of the 2.9mm diameter implant. The research used two sets of screw-in / prosthetic abutment (G1 and G2) for analysis. One group (G1) was previously subjected to mechanical cycling, 500000 cycles per sample, receiving a load of 120N with 30° inclination at 2 Hz. For microbiological analysis, each sample was immersed in Escherichia coli suspension and incubated at 37°C. After 14 days, the abutments were separated from the respective implants, the reverse torque values were recorded and the presence of bacterial penetration was evaluated. Student’s t-distribution and binomial tests were used for the statistical calculations, and a significance level of 5% was adopted. There was no significant difference between the reversal torque values and the proportion of turbid broths. There was contamination in 33% samples and in group G1 and 0% in group G2. There was no significant difference between the values of the reverse torque in the evaluated groups and bacterial sealing with or without mechanical cycling (p>0.05). Therefore, the results of this study showed that implants with platform of 2.9 mm were effective in microbiological sealing, independent of the mechanical cycling, evidencing the accuracy and predictability of the system.

One of the causes of the failure of dental implants is bone loss due to bacterial infiltration. To minimize this problem, biofilm adhesion on the abutments must be avoided to improve soft tissue sealing. The present work aimed the functionalization of titanium abutment surface with antimicrobials graphene oxide and copper oxide. The samples were divided into 4 groups: G1 (Cu2O coating); G2 (GO coating); G3 (GO + Cu2O coating) and G4 (no coating). They were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, roughness, and wettability. Bacterial viability on the abutment surface was also investigated using a qualitative live/dead assay. After surface functionalization, all groups had adequate roughness values for soft tissue sealing, less than 0,4 μm. G1 samples had the lowest wettability (2.16 ± 6.23 mJ/m2). The surface of G2 samples had the largest number of dead bacteria (226.334 AU/42.38%). The roughness of G3 (0.094 ± 0.018 μm) had the most similarity to that of natural teeth (0.099 μm). G4 samples had the highest wettability (38.57 ± 10.51 mJ/m2) and allowed the greatest adherence of S. mutans strains (399.056 AU/32.10%).

The aim of this study is to validate a minimally invasive surgical procedure to harvest palate periosteum as a source of tissue for mesenchymal stromal/stem cells. We performed a standardized procedure to harvest the palate periosteum in ten subjects, which consisted of a 3 mm disposable punch and a Molt periosteal elevator to harvest a small full-thickness fragment of soft tissue at the hard palate area, between the upper bicuspids, 3 to 4 mm apical to the cement enamel junction. The one-third inner portion was fragmented, and following standard cell culture procedures, the adherent cells were cultured for three passages, after obtaining 70–90% confluence. Cell morphology analysis, flow cytometry analysis, and viability and osteogenic differentiation assays were performed. In all 10 cases, uneventful healing was observed, with no need for analgesic intake. The evaluation of cell morphology showed elongated spindle-shaped cells distributed in woven patterns. A high viability range was verified as well as an immunophenotype compatible with mesenchymal stem cell lineage. The differentiation assay showed the potential of the cells to differentiate into the osteogenic lineage. These results demonstrate that the minimally invasive proposed surgical technique is capable of supplying enough periosteum source tissue for stem cell culture and bone tissue engineering.

Abstract The present study evaluated the effect of the taper angle of different internal conical connection implants and cyclic loading on the implant-abutment bacterial seal. A total of 96 implant-abutment sets were divided into eight groups. Four groups of different taper degrees with cyclic mechanical loading of 500,000 cycles per sample, with a 120-N load at 2 Hz before analysis [16DC (16-degree, cycled), 11.5DC (11.5-degree, cycled), 3DC (3- degree, cycled) and 4DC (4- degree, cycled)] were compared to four control groups without cyclic loading [16D (16-degree), 11.5D (11.5-degree), 3D (3-degree), and 4D (4-degree)]. Microbiological analysis was performed by immersing all samples in a suspension containing Escherichia coli and incubating them at 37°C. After 14 days, the presence of bacterial seals was evaluated. Fisher-Freeman-Halton exact tests and binomial tests were performed (5% significance level). The groups showed significant differences in bacterial seal, and mechanical load cycling improved the bacterial seal in the 3DC group. In all other groups, no significant differences in bacterial seal were found between cycled and uncycled samples. To conclude, the internal conical connection with a 3-degree taper angle showed better results than the other connection with different angles when subjected to load cycling. However, none of the angles tested were fully effective in sealing the implant-abutment interface.

The aim of this study was to test whether lyophilized conditioned media from human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cell cultures promote the healing of critical-size defects created in the calvaria of rats. Prior to the surgical procedure, the medium in which dental pulp stem cells were cultured was frozen and lyophilized. After general anesthesia, an 8 mm diameter bone defect was created in the calvaria of twenty-four rats. The defects were filled with the following materials: xenograft alone (G1) or xenograft associated with lyophilized conditioned medium (G2). After 14 or 42 days, the animals were euthanized, and the specimens processed for histologic and immunohistochemical analysis. Bone formation at the center of the defect was observed only in the G2 at 42 days. At both timepoints, increased staining for VEGF, a marker for angiogenesis, was observed in G2. Consistent with this, at 14 days, G2 also had a higher number of blood vessels detected by immunostaining with an anti-CD34 antibody. In conclusion, conditioned media from human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cell cultures had a positive effect on the regenerative process in rat critical-size bone defects. Both the formation of bone and enhancement of vascularization were stimulated by the conditioned media.

Abstract Biphasic calcium phosphate bioceramics (BCP) consist of a mixture of hydroxyapatite (HA) and beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) within the same particle. Due to their osteoconductive properties, biocompatibility and resemblance to natural bone, these materials have become a promising and suitable alternative to autologous bone grafting. First, the topography characteristics, specific surface area, and total pore volume of BCP were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and the BET and BJH methods. Next, this study aimed to evaluate the intensity of the inflammatory process and the bone neoformation capacity of various particle sizes of BCP in the repair of critical defects in the calvaria of rats. A xenogeneic biomaterial was used in the control group. After 30, 60, and 90 days, the animals were euthanized, followed by the processing of the samples to measure the intensity of inflammatory infiltrates and the areas of bone neoformation. Our results indicate that no considerable differences were observed in the inflammatory scores in sites treated with distinct BCP grain sizes. A greater area of bone neoformation was measured in the xenogeneic group at all analysis times, with no substantial differences in bone formation between the BCP particle size in the range of 250–500 µm and 500–1000 µm.

The aim of this study was to histologically verify the performance of pulp-derived stem cells used in the pulp–dentin complex regeneration. Maxillary molars of 12 immunosuppressed rats were divided into two groups: the SC (stem cells) group, and the PBS (just standard phosphate-buffered saline) group. After pulpectomy and canal preparation, the teeth received the designated materials, and the cavities were sealed. After 12 weeks, the animals were euthanized, and the specimens underwent histological processing and qualitative evaluation of intracanal connective tissue, odontoblast-like cells, intracanal mineralized tissue, and periapical inflammatory infiltrate. Immunohistochemical evaluation was performed to detect dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1). In the PBS group, an amorphous substance and remnants of mineralized tissue were observed throughout the canal, and abundant inflammatory cells were observed in the periapical region. In the SC group, an amorphous substance and remnants of mineralized tissue were observed throughout the canal; odontoblasts-like cells immunopositive for DMP1 and mineral plug were observed in the apical region of the canal; and a mild inflammatory infiltrate, intense vascularization, and neoformation of organized connective tissue were observed in the periapical region. In conclusion, the transplantation of human pulp stem cells promoted partial pulp tissue neoformation in adult rat molars.

Background: Nonresorbable membranes have been widely used in guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures in posttooth extraction alveoli. In this context, one of the properties suggested by the GBR technique is that these barriers, when exposed to the oral environment, control or prevent the infiltration of connective and epithelial tissue cells, favoring the proliferation of bone cells inside the alveolus, without the growth of biofilm. Materials and Methods: This in vitro study evaluated the topographic characteristics and in vitro biofilm adhesion on membranes used for alveolar preservation, bone Heal™ and Titanium Seal™. Fragments of these membranes (5 mm × 5 mm) were used for all experiments. The topographical morphology and chemical characterization of the membranes were analyzed by scanning electron microscope and dispersive energy X-ray spectroscopy, respectively. For the in vitro biofilm adhesion assay, samples were immersed in Candida albicans (American Type Culture Collection [ATCC] 10231) and Staphylococcus aureus(ATCC 25923) mixed biofilm for 7 and 14 days. Biofilm formation was measured by quantitative analysis with crystal violet aqueous solution, in a spectrophotometer, with a wavelength of 590 nm. Results: The ultrastructural images showed a rough surface for the titanium membrane, without homogeneity in the surface structure, while the polypropylene membrane presented a smoother surface without depressions. The chemical composition of the membranes by Ehlers–Danlos syndrome has identified the presence of copolymer and traces of zinc for the polypropylene membrane; in contrast, the titanium membrane revealed the unique presence of titanium. In addition, there was a decrease in biofilm formation on the surface of the titanium membrane compared to polypropylene (P < 0.05), at both evaluated times. Conclusions: It can be concluded that despite the greater heterogeneity of the titanium membrane surface, the results showed less biofilm formation on this membrane (P < 0.05), which may be indicated in cases of oral cavity exposure.

Abstract Background From the consolidation of surface treatments of dental implants and knowledge on the cellular mechanisms of osseointegration, studies have highlighted the importance of a connective tissue seal against the implant to prevent contamination from the oral environment and consequent biofilm formation. Objective This in vitro study aimed to evaluate whether different titanium surface treatments using acid solutions promoted an increase in collagen secretion, proliferation, and viability of fibroblasts. Material and methods Commercially pure grade-4 titanium disks (6 × 2 mm) were treated with different acid solutions (hydrochloric, nitric, and sulfuric) for 20 and 60 min, respectively, obtaining mean surface roughness of 0.1 to 0.15 μm and 0.5 to 0.7 μm. Human fibroblasts were seeded onto different surfaces and assessed after 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h for cell proliferation and viability using Trypan blue staining and MTT, respectively, as well as the secretion of type I collagen on to such surfaces using ELISA. Machined titanium surfaces were used as controls. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Fisher's LSD test for multiple comparisons, adopting a significance level of 5%. Results No significant difference was observed in cell proliferation for the different surfaces analyzed. Cell viability was significantly lower on the machined surface, after 48 h, when compared to the groups treated with acid for 20 or 60 min, which did not differ from each other. The expression of type I collagen was lowest on the acid-treated surfaces. Conclusion The results showed that the acid treatment proposed did not promote fibroblast proliferation and viability nor favor type I collagen synthesis.

Abstract Bacterial colonization plays a key role on the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis and may be influenced by titanium surface topography. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of titanium topography after fluoride ions deposition in the bacterial colonization. Machined (M), double acid-etched (DE) and double acid-etched surface with fluoride ions deposition (Nano F-) were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, contact angle and roughness (Ra). Streptococcus mutans viability was quantified by Live/Dead Baclight bacterial viability kit. The mean Ra/contact angle values were 0.20 μm/69.13°, 0.53 μm /92.82° and 0.56 μm/94.33° for M, DE and Nano F-, respectively. M surface presented significantly lower live bacterial counts when compared to the Nano F- surface (p=0.007). The dead bacteria count was higher on the Nano F- surface (p=0.001) than on the M and DE surfaces. Crystalline deposition of fluoride ions (Nano F-) promoted an increase in dead bacteria on the tested titanium surface.

Abstract This in vitro study evaluated the impact of TiO2 nanotubes (n-TiO2) incorporated into glass ionomer cement (GIC) on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) characteristics at cellular and molecular levels. n-TiO2, synthesized by the alkaline method (20 nm in size), was added to Ketac Molar EasyMix® at 0%, 3%, 5%, and 7% by weight. S. mutans strains were cultured on GIC disks with addition or not of n-TiO2 for 1, 3, and 7 days and the following parameters were assessed: inhibition halo (mm) (n=3/group); cell viability (live/dead) (n=5/group); cell morphology (SEM) (n=3/group); and gene expression by real-time PCR (vicR, covR, gtfB, gtfC, and gtfD) (n=6/group). The data were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis test, repeated-measures ANOVA or two-way ANOVA, and Tukey’s and Dunn’s post-hoc tests (α=0.05). The agar diffusion test showed a higher antibacterial property for 5% n-TiO2 compared with 3% and 7% (p0.05). Incorporation of n-TiO2 at 3% and 5% potentially affected S. mutans viability and the expression of key genes for bacterial survival and growth, improving the anticariogenic properties of GIC.

Abstract Associated with the use of removable prostheses, the development of candidiasis, called prosthetic stomatitis, is frequently observed. In view of the application of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) in dentistry that may offer antimicrobial effect, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding AgNP with different concentrations during thermopolymerization or immersion of acrylic in this substance in the properties antifungal, mechanical and cytotoxic. The groups were divided: addition of 1% silver nanoparticle solution (G1), addition of 2.5% silver nanoparticle solution (G2), addition of 5% silver nanoparticle solution (G3), immersed for 10 min in aqueous silver nanoparticle solution (G4), immersed for 24 hours in aqueous silver nanoparticle solution (G5). In the cytotoxicity assay, at all evaluation times, all groups showed cytotoxic effect (p

Background and Purpose. To evaluate the capacity of mandibular bone marrow blood aspirate associated with biomaterials to stimulate bone tissue neoformation compared to the use of peripheral blood aspirate in patients with bone loss in the premaxillary region. Materials and Methods. The study included 16 patients with maxillary atresia. The region was grafted with xenograft blocks associated with the following treatments: G1, the patient’s peripheral blood during surgery, and G2, dripping of mandibular bone marrow blood until the xenograft was completely wet. After 7 and 14 days, scintigraphic images of the regions of interest (ROI) were taken to quantify pixels, which indicate osteogenic activity. Additionally, trephined samples obtained at the time of implant placement were stained in H&E, and newly formed bone tissue was quantified. The data were tabulated and statistically analyzed at a significance level of 5%. Results. Scintigraphic data showed greater osteogenic activity with mandibular bone marrow blood (G2) at all times evaluated p

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has an inflammatory milieu in the synovial compartment, which is regulated by a complex cytokine and chemokine network that induces continuously degenerative and inflammatory reactions. The secreted osteoclastogenic factor of activated T cells (SOFAT) is a unique cytokine and represents an alternative pathway for osteoclast activation. In this study, we examined whether SOFAT is able to induce joint pain and investigated the presence of SOFAT in a Collagen-induced Arthritis (CIA) model and in human subjects. Here, we found that an intra-articular stimulation with SOFAT (1, 10, 100, or 1,000 ng/10 μl) in the knee joint significantly decreases the mechanical threshold in the hind paw of mice (p < 0.05). Moreover, after a second injection of SOFAT, the mechanical threshold decrease was sustained for up to 8 days (p < 0.05). In the CIA model, the immunohistochemical assay of knee joint showed positivity stained for SOFAT, and the mRNA and protein expression of SOFAT were significantly higher in the affected-group (p < 0.05). Besides, the mRNA of RANKL, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-15 were significantly higher in the affected-group (p < 0.05). Finally, SOFAT was detected in the synovial fluid of RA patients, but not in OA patients (p < 0.05). In conclusion, SOFAT is up regulated in inflammatory milieu such as RA but not in non-inflammatory OA. SOFAT may be a novel molecule in the complex inflammatory phenotype of RA.

Abstract The possible role of B-cell growth and differentiation-related cytokines on the pathogenesis of diabetes-related periodontitis has not been addressed so far. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the gene expression of proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) and B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), two major cytokines associated to survival, differentiation and maturation of B cells in biopsies from gingival tissue with periodontitis. Gingival biopsies were obtained from subjects with periodontitis (n = 17), with periodontitis and DM (n = 19) as well as from periodontally and systemically healthy controls (n = 10). Gene expressions for APRIL, BLyS, RANKL, OPG, TRAP and DC-STAMP were evaluated using qPCR. The expressions APRIL, BLyS, RANKL, OPG, TRAP and DC-STAMP were all higher in both periodontitis groups when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the expressions of BLyS, TRAP and RANKL were significantly higher in the subjects with periodontitis and DM when compared to those with periodontitis alone (p < 0.05). The mRNA levels of BLyS correlated positively with RANKL in the subjects with periodontitis and DM (p < 0.05). BLyS is overexpressed in periodontitis tissues of subjects with type 2 DM, suggesting a possible role of this cytokine on the pathogenesis DM-related periodontitis.

Objective: The objective of this review was to evaluate the outcomes of the treatment of peri-implant defects, using Guided Bone Regeneration. METHODS: A literature search was performed based on the PICO methodology in the PubMed/Medline, SciELO, Lilacs electronic databases, CAPES periodicals and the Cochrane Library. We included studies using bovine mineral matrix, associated to a collagen membrane for the treatment of peri-implantitis by Guided Bone Regeneration. RESULTS: Of 1,163 studies, 10 were included in this review after applying the evaluation criteria. A total of 269 implants were treated in 260 patients. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 48 months. The studies evaluated outcome in terms of reduction in probing depth, gain of clinical attachment and healing of the bony defect. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, it was not possible to perform meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: Treatment of peri-implant lesions with Guided Bone Regeneration is a viable modality of treatment, providing reduction in bleeding on probing, as well as gain of clinical attachment. Complete filling of the defect is, however, an unpredictable result.

Abstract Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common cause of hereditary mental retardation, but studies on the oral health condition of these patients are rare. The aim of this study was to determine the experience of dental caries in individuals with FXS, by examining the saliva profile, oral hygiene, socioeconomic characteristics and use of controlled drugs in these patients. Dental health was estimated using the decayed, missing and filled teeth index (DMF-T) and sialometry, and the pH value and buffering capacity of the saliva, colony forming units of S. mutans (CFU/mL), visible biofilm index, and socioeconomic status were all examined. The sample, comprising 23 individuals, had an average age of 17.3 ± 5.6 years, a DMF-T index of 5.5, a diminished salivary flow (78.3%), and a low (73.9%) saliva buffering capacity. Most (52.2%) individuals presented with a high abundance (CFU/mL) of S. mutans. The experience of caries was correlated with salivary parameters, poor oral hygiene, lower socioeconomic status and an increased count of S. mutans in saliva.

Aim: To assess the influence of aesthetic surface coating on load-deflection ratios in nickel-titanium (NiTi) orthodontic wires compared with uncoated wires.Methods: NiTi wires (0.016") from four different manufacturers (Morelli, Sorocaba, SP, Brazil; TP, La Porte, IN, USA; Eurodonto, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Ortho Organizers, San Marcos, CA, USA) were divided into eight groups, according to presence or absence of coating: group 1, Morelli coated wire; group 2, Morelli uncoated; group 3, TP coated; group 4, TP uncoated; group 5, Eurodonto coated; group 6, Eurodonto uncoated; group 7, Ortho Organizers coated; group 8, Ortho Organizers uncoated. To determine the load-deflection ratio, a three-point bending test was performed in a AGS-X 250 KN (Shimadzu) universal testing machine.Results: The results showed that aesthetic coatings did not influence load-deflection ratio in NiTi orthodontic wires at 1-mm and 2-mm activation. However, comparison across the four tested brands revealed that Eurodonto coated wires exhibited the greatest force levels at 1-mm, 2-mm, and 3-mm deflection. At 3-mm deflection, Ortho Organizers coated wires exhibited lower force levels than all other tested brands, except for TP wires.Conclusions: We conclude that the load-deflection ratio of NiTi wires was not influenced significantly by aesthetic coatings, especially at lower activations.

Considering the variety of implant connection systems available in the market and the contrasting literature regarding tapered connection systems in terms of bacterial leakage, the aim of this in vitro study was to compare the effectiveness of the bacterial seal at the implant/abutment interface between an external hexagon and a tapered connection system. Twelve sets of indexed tapered connection components and twelve sets of external hexagon connection components were used for microbiological analysis. In addition, for each model, an implant with its respective prosthetic abutment was used as a negative control and another as a positive control of microbial contamination. Failure of the abutment/implant interface seal was observed via turbidity or presence of deposits in the culture. Descriptive analysis of the data and relative frequency (percentage) as well as Fisher’s exact test were used at a significance level of 5%. Two of ten (20%) external hexagon specimens showed contamination against 0/10 (0%) tapered connection implants. In conclusion, both implant/abutment connections were able to prevent bacterial leakage in vitro.

Myoepithelial cells have an important role in salivary gland tumor development, contributing to a low grade of aggressiveness of these tumors. Normal myoepithelial cells are known by their suppressor function presenting increased expression of extracellular matrix genes and protease inhibitors. The importance of stromal cells and growth factors during tumor initiation and progression has been highlighted by recent literature. Many tumors result from the alteration of paracrine growth factors pathways. Growth factors mediate a wide variety of biological processes such as development, tissue repair and tumorigenesis, and also contribute to cellular proliferation and transformation in neoplastic cells. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFβ-1), platelet-derived growth factor-A (PDGF-A) and their respective receptors (FGFR-1, FGFR-2, TGFβR-II and PDGFR-α) in myoepithelial cells from pleomorphic adenomas (PA) by in vivo and in vitro experiments. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Serial sections were obtained from paraffin-embedded PA samples obtained from the school's files. Myoepithelial cells were obtained from explants of PA tumors provided by surgery from different donors. Immunohistochemistry, cell culture and immunofluorescence assays were used to evaluate growth factor expression. RESULTS: The present findings demonstrated that myoepithelial cells from PA were mainly positive to FGF-2 and FGFR-1 by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. PDGF-A and PDGFR-α had moderate expression by immunohistochemistry and presented punctated deposits throughout cytoplasm of myoepithelial cells. FGFR-2, TGFβ-1 and TGFβR-II were negative in all samples. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggested that FGF-2 compared to the other studied growth factors has an important role in PA benign myoepithelial cells, probably contributing to proliferation of these cells through the FGFR-1.

Abstract This in vitro study evaluated the cutting ability of reciprocating files and the deformations caused by their multiple use. Five Reciproc® R25 files were divided into five groups for 10 simulated root canal preparations each. The resin blocks were weighed and photographed (12.5X and 20X) before and after preparation. The canals were prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Enlargement of the root canals was evaluated by comparison of pre- and post-preparation images using a computer software. The preoperative and postoperative weight differences determined the cutting ability of repeatedly used instruments. The data were analyzed using Lilliefors and Friedman statistical tests. The cutting ability and enlargement of the canals gradually decreased after each use, with significant differences observed at the 8th and 9th repetitions, respectively. There was no evidence of file deformation. The cutting ability and enlargement of the simulated canals gradually decreased when a reciprocating file was used up to 10 times.

Neutrophils have been implicated in granuloma formation in several infectious diseases, in addition to their main phagocytic and pathogen destruction role. It has been demonstrated that Nrf2 regulates antioxidant protection in neutrophils, attenuating inflammation without compromising the hosts bacterial defense. In this study, we analyzed the presence of neutrophils in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis mycosis (PCM), as well as the immunoexpression of Nrf2. Thirty-nine cases of oral PCM were classified according to quantity of fungi and to the presence of loose or well-organized granulomas and microabscesses. An Nrf2 antibody was used for immunohistochemical analysis. The results showed that neutrophils are present in microabscesses and loose granulomas, but were absent in structured granulomas. A greater quantity of fungi was shown in cases with only loose granulomas when compared to loose and well organized granulomas. Nrf2 was observed in the nuclei of neutrophils of loose granulomas and abscesses, with its expression in loose granulomas maintained despite the additional presence of well organized granulomas in the same specimen. This study suggests that neutrophils participate in P. brasiliensis granuloma formation and that Nrf2 has a possible role in neutrophil survival, via modulation of the inflammatory response.

A case of adult rhabdomyoma is reported. The lesion is a rare benign tumor of skeletal muscle origin which occurs predominantly in the head and neck region. In the present case, the clinical diagnosis favored a benign salivary gland tumor. Histologically, the tumor was composed of large round, oval, and polygonal cells of varying size with abundant pale, eosinophilic, fine, granular cytoplasm with peripherally located nuclei. Immunohistochemically, the lesion was positive for muscle-specific actin, smooth muscle actin, desmin, S100 protein, and Masson’s trichrome. Electron microscopic examination confirmed the presence of numerous myofibrils. The lesion was treated by surgical resection. The clinical, histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural features are discussed in this study.

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of the present study was to perform a histological evaluation of a titanium mini-implant for orthodontic anchorage. Shear strength and fracture patterns that occurred immediately, 30 and 60 days after insertion with or without N-2-butyl-cyanoacrylate adhesive were evaluated. Methods: Ninety-six mini-implants (Arrow, Peclab, Brazil) were placed in the tibia of 9 male rabbits, with or without an adhesive (Vetbond™, 3M, USA). Histological evaluation was done by optical light microscope. Shear strength testing was performed, followed by fracture analysis with visual inspection. Results: Close contact between the newly formed bone and the device was evidenced in the group without adhesive, whereas gaps in the group with adhesive were found. Tukey test showed similar values in both groups at the immediate time point (20.70 N without adhesive and 24.69 N with adhesive), and higher values for the non-adhesive group, after 30 and 60 days (43.98 N and 78.55 N, respectively). The values for the adhesive group were similar for the immediate time point (24.69 N), 30 days (18.23 N) and 60 days (31.98 N). The fractures were adhesive for both groups at the immediate time point. The fractures were cohesive in bone for the non-adhesive group after 30 and 60 days. Conclusions: The mini-implants showed close bone contact and required higher shear strength for removal at 30 and 60 days for the non-adhesive group. Further studies are needed to assess the proper way to remove the orthodontic anchorage without cohesive fractures in bone.