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The profound impact of burning mouth syndrome (BMS) on patients' quality of life (QoL) highlights the critical need to identify effective treatments for this condition. This study aims to evaluate and compare the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among individuals diagnosed with BMS, focusing on different treatment modalities. For that purpose, a scoping review was designed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) for scoping review reporting guidelines and the registration with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). An electronic search was then conducted in March 2024, encompassing the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Trip Database. Publications were deemed eligible if they assessed the impact of different treatments for BMS on health-related and oral health-related QoL. Out of the initial 5400, only 13 studies were considered suitable to be included in this review. The instrument used to evaluate HRQoL was the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36). For OHRQoL, the preferred tools were the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) and the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). Literature reported improvements in patients' HRQoL across the majority of analyzed treatment modalities. However, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and n-acetylcysteine (NAC) plus clonazepam were the most effective in improving OHRQoL. This review highlights several promising treatment options for improving both HRQoL and OHRQoL in individuals with BMS. Nevertheless, the variability among the studies analyzed underscores the need for further research to identify and establish consistently effective treatments for this condition, reflecting the need for consistent trial designs to accurately assess the true impact of treatments on the disease., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mendes Abreu et al.)

Sodium, although essential for life, is a key factor in changes in vascular function and cardiovascular disease when consumed in excess. Sarcocornia spp., a halophyte plant with many nutritional benefits, presents itself as a promising substitute for the consumption of purified salt. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2 and 9 are widely studied due to their action in physiological processes and as biomarkers at the diagnostic level due to their increased expression in inflammatory processes. This study aimed to evaluate whether replacing salt with Sarcocornia perennis ( S. perennis ) powder in healthy young people leads to an improvement in biochemical profiles and the attenuation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. In the present study, 30 participants were randomized into a control group that consumed salt and an intervention group that replaced salt with powdered S. perennis . The evaluation of the biochemical parameters was carried out by the spectrophotometry method, and the evaluation of MMP activity was carried out by zymography. A significant decrease was observed in the intervention group in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and creatinine ( p -value ≤ 0.05), along with lower but not significantly different mean values of triglycerides. Regarding MMP activity after the intervention, a lower mean value was observed for MMP-9 activity, with there being higher mean values for MMP-2 activity, both with p -values ≥ 0.05. The results confirmed that the consumption of S. perennis is a beneficial choice for health regarding the lipid profile. The evaluation of MMP activity indicated the potential of S. perennis in the regulation of MMP-9 activity in healthy individuals, along with the need for the further study of these proteases in individuals with pathologies.

In recent years, the world's aging population has increased, contributing to the development of age-related pathologies, which have been aggravated by physical inactivity and excessive fat intake. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of implementing a nutritional program (control group-CG) combined with exercise (intervention group-IG) on the inflammatory profile, MMPs, and TIMPs in a group of 34 elderly participants (IG, n = 18; CG, n = 16). Participants underwent a full multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation (T0), with the gathering of clinical information and biochemical and hematological determinations being re-evaluated eight weeks later (T1). A diet manual was made, which provided a selection of different types of diets resulting from the nutritional needs of the different users at the center. The aerobic exercise consisted of two sessions per week with a total duration of 1 h. The laboratory evaluation was performed by slot blot. Statistical analysis included a paired sample t -test and Spearman's correlation coefficient. We observed that in the IG, there was a significant increase at T1 of TNF-α ( p < 0.05) and MMP-2 ( p < 0.05), without changes in IL-6 and MMP-9, showing that the intervention did not cause an exacerbated inflammatory response in exercised elderly people. The intervention program implemented showed potential to contribute to better active aging strategies, taking advantage of the known benefits of exercise without inducing a harmful inflammatory response in elderly participants.

The International Consortium Network/Orofacial Pain Special Interest Group focuses on temporomandibular disease diagnosis procedure guidelines as a reference iQAn this scope. Concerning this reference, the aim of this study was to comprehensively analyze injury and sequela frames within European and American approaches to personal damage. A quasiexperimental pilot study of Portuguese orofacial trauma cases in a medico-legal evaluation database was performed with an interrupted time series design. The clinical data were recorded following five criteria of TMJ diagnosis (jaw opening, pain, anatomical deficit, functional deficit, clinical sounds, and occlusal deficit) under three degrees of severity. The injury frame evaluation was recorded in the first-degree stage in all criteria. Pain, as a sequela, was the criterion present in 45% of the sample as spontaneous (20%) or stimulated (25%). Temporomandibular trauma damage evaluation emphasizes the accurate injury diagnosis and sequela framework. Orofacial trauma analysis should focus on the inclusion or exclusion of a TMD diagnosis. This study suggests revising the reference tables on personal damage, considering the inclusion of TMD and its categorization and impact., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To analyse the existing radiation protection (RP) education and training (E&T) capabilities in the European Union and identify associated needs, problems and challenges., Method: An online survey was disseminated via the EURAMED Rocc-n-Roll consortium network and prominent medical societies in the field of radiological research. The survey sections analyse the RP E&T during undergraduate, residency/internship and continuous professional development; RP E&T problems and legal implementation. Differences were analysed by European geographic regions, profession, years of professional experience and main area of practice/research., Results: The majority of the 550 respondents indicated that RP topics are part of undergraduate curricula in all courses for their profession and country (55%); however, hands-on practical training is not included according to 30% of the respondents. The lack of E&T, practical aspects in current E&T, and mandatory continuing E&T were considered the major problems. The legal requirement that obtained higher implementation score was the inclusion of the practical aspects of medical radiological procedures on education (86%), and lower score was obtained for the inclusion of RP E&T on medical and dental school curriculums (61%)., Conclusions: A heterogeneity in RP E&T during undergraduate, residency/internship and continuous professional development is evident across Europe. Differences were noted per area of practice/research, profession, and European geographic region. A large variation in RP E&T problem rating was also obtained., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Skinfold callipers are often used in clinical practice to estimate subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness. Recently, LipoTool emerged as a potential digital system to measure skinfolds, however comparisons with competing equipment are lacking. Aim: The aim of this study was to test the agreement between two competing skinfold callipers (digital and mechanical). Methods: The sample included 22 healthy male adult participants. A certified observer measured eight skinfolds twice using different skinfold callipers (digital and mechanical). Differences between equipment were tested using Wilcoxon signed rank test The distribution of error was examined using the normality test Results: Differences between skinfold callipers were significantly in five skinfolds: triceps (Z  =  -3.546; P < 0.001), subscapular (Z  =  -3.984; P < 0.001), suprailiac (Z  =  3.024; P  =  0.002), supraspinale (Z  =  3.885; P < 0.001), abdominal (Z z = -2.937; P  =  0.003), thigh (Z  =  -2.224; P  =  0.026) and calf (Z  =  -2.052; P  =  0.040). Differences between callipers were constant. Conclusions: Mechanical and digital callipers tended to record different values of skinfold thickness. Clinical examination should consider equipment-related variation in fat mass estimation.

Background: A Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis was performed to understand the status quo of education and training in radiation protection (RP) and to develop a coordinated European approach to RP training needs based on stakeholder consensus and existing activities in the field. Fourteen team members represented six European professional societies, one European voluntary organisation, two international healthcare organisations and five professions, namely: Medical Physicists; Nuclear Medicine Physicians; Radiologists; Radiation Oncologists and Radiographers. Four subgroups analysed the "Strengths", "Weaknesses", "Opportunities" and "Threats" related to E&T in RP developed under previous European Union (EU) programmes and on the Guidelines on Radiation Protection Education and Training of Medical Professionals in the EU., Results: Consensus agreement identified four themes for strengths and opportunities, namely: (1) existing structures and training recommendations; (2) RP training needs assessment and education & training (E&T) model(s) development; (3) E&T dissemination, harmonisation, and accreditation; (4) financial supports. Weaknesses and Threats analysis identified two themes: (1) awareness and prioritisation at a national/global level and (2) awareness and prioritisation by healthcare professional groups and researchers., Conclusions: A lack of effective implementation of RP principles in daily practice was identified. EuRnR strategic planning needs to consider processes at European, national and local levels. Success is dependent upon efficient governance structures and expert leadership. Financial support is required to allow the stakeholder professional agencies to have sufficient resources to achieve a pan European radiation protection training network which is sustainable and accredited across multiple national domains., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Oxidative stress is defined as the imbalance between reactive species and antioxidant agents. One of the effects of oxidative stress is the normal process of cellular aging that stems from the accumulation of tissue damage. Epidemiological studies show that regular physical exercise prevents the injuries caused by aging. The objective was to evaluate whether the practice of hydrotherapy, in an elderly population, positively influenced the activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and reductase that act by reducing reactive species in the body. The study involved 37 participants aged ≥ 60 years, of both sexes, divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group performed 15 hydrotherapy sessions. Enzyme activity was evaluated in two moments: T0-before the first session, and T1-after the last session, with blood collections conducted in both. In T1, there was a significant increase vs. T0 of glutathione peroxidase activity (57.72 ± 19.99 vs. 48.14 ± 17.22 U/g Hb) and glutathione reductase activity (100.18 ± 30.85 vs. 78.44 ± 21.26 U/L). Both sexes tended to show higher values at T1. We concluded that hydrotherapy proved to be a positive stimulus for the enzymatic antioxidant activity of the elderly, suggesting that a regular and moderate practice of physical exercise induces better and higher quality of life.

Background: Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs), inserted in non-surgical treatments for obstructive sleep apnea and hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), are used intra-orally during the sleep period, with the aim of promoting mandibular protrusion. The aim of the study is to analyze the changes in the upper airway after the use of an MAD in the treatment of OSAHS., Methods: 60 patients diagnosed with OSAHS, as established by the Sleep Medicine Service, underwent treatment with the Silensor SL device at the Stomatology Service of the University Hospital Center of Coimbra, from January 2018 to January 2019. All patients completed two polysomnographies and two lateral teleradiographies: one before starting treatment (T0) and one after 1 year of treatment (T1). In the lateral teleradiography performed after one year of treatment, the patient had the MAD placed intra-orally. The linear measurements of the airspace proposed by the Arnett/Gunson FAB Surgery cephalometric analysis were measured at four craniometric points: A, MCI, B, Pog., Results: The results demonstrate an anteroposterior airway enlargement in two of the four points studied with the MAD placed intra-orally (B and Pog point). The greatest average increase is observed at point Pog (3 mm), followed by B (1 mm), and finally, point A (0.6 mm)., Conclusions: This study proved that there is an improvement in anteroposterior measurements at various points in the upper airways after treatment with MAD.

Background/aims: Orofacial injuries are a significant public health issue. The evidence-based knowledge associated with adolescent violence and trauma is highlighted by the World Health Organization with regard to its specific needs related to disability, violence, and unintentional injuries. The main aim of this study was to present evidence-based information about orofacial traumatic injuries of an adolescent population using Portuguese epidemiological data. The second aim was to report follow-up data of injuries for disability assessment in a trauma prevention approach., Methods: An observational cohort study was performed using the clinical database of the national-specialist-healthcare-centre-of-trauma (2014-2018). Information was collected regarding gender, school age range, etiology, injury type, injury time, and severity. Mann-Whitney (p < .05), Kruskal-Wallis (p < .001), and Cox regression (p < .001) analyses were performed., Results: Orofacial trauma injuries were present in 23.3% of Portuguese adolescents (age range 10-18 years). The majority were male (72.6%), and no age range stood out in frequency. School accidents (90.6%) were the major etiology for all groups of injuries. The diagnosis of superficial intraoral injuries was the most frequent (50.8%), followed by similar injuries to the face (22.5%). A Cox regression model with an adequate fit was yielded (χ2 [6] = 54.893, p < .001), suggesting that variable injury type was a predictor of disability, considering injury time. Tooth and alveolar loss, complicated tooth fracture, complicated face injury, and temporomandibular injuries were more predictive (1

Background: The estimated number of people living with anxiety disorders worldwide is around 264 million and is estimated to have worsened with the recent pandemic of COVID-19. Acupuncture has shown to have excellent therapeutic effects in reducing anxiety., Design: Double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial with 56 participants (21-82 years) with anxiety diagnosed by 3 different anxiety scales (BAI, GAD-7 and OASIS). A 30-min acupuncture session was applied once a week for 10 weeks., Aims: Evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture and electroacupuncture in the treatment of anxiety to verify if: (1) People with high anxiety report reduced scores after 5 and 10 sessions; (2) Salivary cortisol levels accompanied the reduced scores; (3) Electroacupuncture treatment is more effective than acupuncture; (4) the treatments is independent of anxiolytic medication., Methods: Volunteers were randomized into 3 groups (control, acupuncture, and electroacupuncture). The results were analyzed by anxiety scales and salivary cortisol tests., Results: The findings show an improvement in anxiety, assessed by BAI, GAD-7 and OASIS, after the 5th session of acupuncture (p < 0.05) and electroacupuncture (p < 0.05) and the 10th session for both techniques (p < 0.001). The salivary cortisol values measured in the morning followed this pattern (p < 0.05), although the reduction of the night cortisol values was not statistically significant. Electroacupuncture and acupuncture show similar efficacy. The positive effect after the treatments is independent of anxiolytic medication (p < 0.001)., Conclusion: Acupuncture and electroacupuncture are effective in treating anxiety on their own or as adjuncts to pharmacological therapy., Trial Registration Number: NºP445-08/2017 (Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde)., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: The osteogenesis distraction technique applied to the craniofacial skeleton is an alternative treatment for dentofacial deformities. Despite the advantages of tooth-borne distractors, few studies have evaluated their clinical implementation in sagittal dentoskeletal deformities. This study aimed provide a radiographic assessment of the effect of two different activations of tooth-borne distraction in the lengthening of the mandible in canines., Material and Methods: Ten male beagle dogs, approximately one year old, were used for this experimental study. Three remained as a control group and seven underwent a mandibular tooth-borne distraction protocol with single daily activation in one hemimandible and two daily activations in the other, during ten days. The consolidation period took 12 weeks. Occlusal radiographs were performed immediately pre- and postoperatively., Results: After the distraction period, the host bone margins presented very well-defined outlines with regular contours. Concerning the consolidation period, between the second and fourth weeks, all hemimandibles showed small rectangular radiopaque regions with parallel orientation to the distraction axis. At the twelfth week, all hemimandibles presented an entire mineralization of the distraction gap with no axial deviations of the anterior and posterior host bone, nine of which with both margins showing corticalization., Conclusions: Radiographic analysis showed bone regeneration in order to achieve the original bone architecture, especially in the group of multiple distraction. Tooth-borne distraction allowed successful sagittal lengthening of the mandible in a canine model. Key words: Orthodontics, osteogenesis, distraction, mandibular advancement, orthodontic appliance design., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright: © 2021 Medicina Oral S.L.)

Introduction: Structural or anatomic differences may arise during the development of the maxillary sinus and the process of fusion of the palate in the presence of cleft lip and palate. The present study aimed to compare the maxillary sinus volume of patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate and a control group (noncleft patients)., Methods: In this retrospective case-control study, 160 cone-beam computed tomography images of 80 unilateral cleft lip and palate patients (41 males and 39 females; mean age, 12.7 ± 6.03 years) and 80 control patients (43 males and 37 females; mean age, 13.1 ± 6.27 years) were evaluated through the ITK-SNAP software (Cognitica, Philadelphia, Pa) to access the maxillary sinus volume. Analysis of covariance and regression analysis were used to assess the differences between the groups while considering the relationship between maxillary sinus volume, age, and sex., Results: No statistically significant differences were found in the maxillary sinus volume analyzing a unilateral cleft lip and palate and a control group (P = 0.677). Considering the cleft group, there is a tendency for the maxillary sinus volume of the cleft side to be smaller than its contralateral (P < 0.001). Statistically significant differences were found in the maxillary sinus volume, regarding the age and sex of cleft and noncleft patients (P < 0.001 for age; P = 0.001 for sex)., Conclusions: According to these results, the presence of unilateral cleft lip and palate did not affect the maxillary sinus volume, comparing cleft and noncleft patients. A biphasic growth pattern of the maxillary sinus and a presence of sexual dimorphism were found., (Copyright © 2020 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Changes in lipid profile constitute the main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Algae extracted carrageenans are long-chain polysaccharides and their ability to form gels provides for the formation of vegetable jelly. The objective was to evaluate the bioactive potential of carrageenan (E407) in the lipid profile, after ingestion of jelly. A total of 30 volunteers of both sexes, aged 20-64 years and with total cholesterol (TC) values ≥200 mg/dL, who ingested 100 mL/day of jelly for 60 days, were studied. All had two venous blood collections: before starting the jelly intake and after 60 days. At both times, TC, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG), were evaluated using commercial kits and spectrophotometer. The statistics were performed using the SPSS 25.0 software and p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Serum values after 60 days of jelly intake revealed a statistically significant decrease in TC levels (5.3%; p = 0.001) and LDL-C concentration (5.4%; p = 0.048) in females. The daily intake of vegetable jelly for 60 days showed a reduction in serum TC and LDL-C levels in women, allowing us to conclude that carrageenan has bioactive potential in reducing TC concentration., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

An accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) procedure for use with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was optimized for the determination of eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in cocoa beans. Plackett-Burman and rotatable central composite design (RCCD) indicated that three variables affected the recoveries of PAHs during the extraction and purification steps: agitation time in the second liquid-liquid partition, weight of silica gel in the column, and volume of hexane for PAH elution from the column. After obtaining the optimal conditions, a single laboratory method validation was performed. Linearity was demonstrated for benzo[a]pyrene in the concentration range from 0.5 to 8.0mgkg -1 of sample, corresponding to 1.25-20.0μgkg -1 of cocoa on a fat basis. For the other analytes, linearity was observed from 0.75 to 8.0μgkg -1 of sample (1.88-20.0μgkg -1 of cocoa on a fat basis). Significant matrix effects were found for chrysene and benzo[b]fluoranthene. The precision of the method was verified with relative standard deviations (RSDs) ranging from 2.57 to 14.13% and from 4.36 to 19.77% under repeatability and intermediate precision conditions, respectively. The average recoveries of the eight PAHs ranged from 74.99 to 109.73%. These parameters, limits and measurement uncertainties met the performance criteria established by European Union regulations, except for the theoretical limit of detection for chrysene. The method was applied to the analysis of samples of Brazilian cocoa beans, and only one sample was found to have a PAH content above the maximum limit defined by the European Union legislation. This optimized and validated method is intended to be used as part of the official Brazilian monitoring programs investigating contaminants and residues in food., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the exploratory relationship between determinants of health, life satisfaction, locus of control, attitudes and behaviors and health related quality of life in an adult population., Methods: Observational study (analytical and cross-sectional) with a quantitative methodological basis. The sample was composed oy 1,214 inhabitants aged ≥ 35 in 31 civil parishes in the County of Coimbra, Portugal, 2011-2012. An anonymous and voluntary health survey was conducted, which collected the following information: demographic, clinical record, health and lifestyle behaviors; health related quality of life (Medical Outcomes Study, Short Form-36); health locus of control; survey of health attitudes and behavior, and quality of life index. Pearson's Linear Correlation, t-Student, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney; One-way ANOVA; Brown-Forsythe's F; Kruskal-Wallis; Multiple Comparisons: Tukey (HSD), Games-Howell and Conover were used in the statistical analysis., Results: Health related quality of life was shown to be lower in females, in older age groups, in obese/overweight individuals, widows, unassisted, those living alone, living in rural/suburban areas, those who did not work and with a medium-low socioeconomic level. Respondents with poor/very poor self-perceived health (p < 0.0001), with chronic disease (p < 0.0001), who consumed < 3 meals per day (p ≤ 0.01), who were sedentary, who slept ≤ 6 h/day and had smoked for several years revealed the worst health results. Health related quality of life was positively related with a bigger internal locus, with better health attitudes and behaviors (physical exercise, health and nutritional care, length of dependence) and with different areas of life satisfaction., Conclusions: Better health related quality of life was associated with certain social, psychological, family and health characteristics, a satisfactory lifestyle, better socioeconomic conditions and a good internal locus of control over health attitudes and behaviors.

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of an experimental model of donors after cardiac death in remote ischemic preconditioning studies., Methods: Twelve Landrace pigs were used as organ donors. They underwent cardiac arrest by coronary en block suture and interruption of ventilatory support. Haemodynamic data regarding the donor surgical protocol were evaluated. Studies variables included mean heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure and oxygen saturation and the time to death., Results: Haemodynamic parameter indicated that the circulatory failure occurred after nine minutes of en block coronary suture and respiratory support interruption. The circulatory collapse occurred evenly across all groups. The heart rate and central venous pressure were statistically different between groups (p=0.023 and p=0.04), respectively. The remote preconditioning resulted in delayed time of death., Conclusions: The model is feasible, and was easily reproduced. The ischemic remote preconditioning tends to a slight increase in circulatory failure time.

We present a case of a postmenopausal woman diagnosed with an ovarian mass containing thyroid follicles and foci of papillary thyroid carcinoma during pathological examination. This patient referred having had a metachronous thyroid malignancy 10 years before. The differential diagnosis between a thyroid malignancy arising from a struma ovarii and a metastatic ovarian tumor originating from thyroid-cancer is challenging. Struma ovarii should be considered when thyroid components are the predominant element or when thyroid malignant tissue is identified within an ovarian lesion. Thyroid carcinoma arising from a struma ovarii is reported to occur in a minority of cases. Of these, papillary carcinoma is the most frequent subtype encountered. Regarding primary thyroid carcinomas, papillary carcinomas have a lower metastatic potential when compared to follicular carcinomas, and most of the metastases occur in the cervical lymph nodes. Ovarian metastases are exceedingly rare and generally associated with widespread disease. However, they must be considered in the presence of previous history of malignant thyroid carcinoma. The authors review the main clinical, imaging and therapeutic aspects of both these entities and present the most likely diagnosis.

Field studies have suggested an immune-mediated mechanism associated with resistance to Schistosoma mansoni infection. Overall, levels of specific IgE have been correlated with resistance to infection, whereas levels of IgG4 have been associated with susceptibility. This study aimed to evaluate serum levels of soluble adult worm antigen preparation (SWAP)-specific IgE and IgG4 in relation to current infection in a large casuistic of individuals living in an endemic area of schistosomiasis in Bahia, Brazil. The prevalence of S. mansoni infection was 37·7% and the mean parasite burden was 55·4 (0-2100) epg/faeces. There was no significant difference in the levels of SWAP-specific IgE in individuals with different parasite burden, whereas high producers of parasite-specific IgG4 presented higher parasite burden when compared to low IgG4 producers. Additionally, S. mansoni parasite load was positively correlated with the levels of specific IgG4 or total IgE. No significant correlation was observed between parasite burden and SWAP-specific IgE. Nevertheless, SWAP-specific IgE/IgG4 ratio was higher in uninfected or lightly infected individuals (1-99 epg/faeces) than in heavily infected ones (≥400 epg/feces). These findings highlight the important role of IgE/IgG4 ratio in the resistance to infection, which could be useful for further studies in schistosomiasis vaccine candidates., (© 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

Objective: To compare the cardiorespiratory, gastrointestinal, analgesic, and behavioral effects between IV and IM administration of morphine in conscious horses with no signs of pain., Animals: 6 healthy adult horses., Procedures: Horses received saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (IM or IV) or morphine sulfate (0.05 and 0.1 mg/kg, IM or IV) in a randomized, masked crossover study design. The following variables were measured before and for 360 minutes after drug administration: heart and respiratory rates; systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures; rectal temperature; arterial pH and blood gas variables; intestinal motility; and response to thermal and electrical noxious stimuli. Adverse effects and horse behavior were also recorded. Plasma concentrations of morphine, morphine-3-glucuronide, and morphine-6-glucuronide were measured via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry., Results: No significant differences in any variable were evident after saline solution administration. Intravenous and IM administration of morphine resulted in minimal and short-term cardiorespiratory, intestinal motility, and behavioral changes. A decrease in gastrointestinal motility was detected 1 to 2 hours after IM administration of morphine at doses of 0.05 and 0.1 mg/kg and after IV administration of morphine at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg. Morphine administration yielded no change in any horse's response to noxious stimuli. Both morphine-3-glucuronide and morphine-6-glucuronide were detected in plasma after IV and IM administration of morphine., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Clinically relevant doses of morphine sulfate yielded minimal and short-term behavioral and intestinal motility effects in healthy horses with no signs of pain. Neither dose of morphine affected their response to a noxious stimulus.

Purpose: To describe technical aspects of a new experimental model that simulates a non heart beating organ donor., Methods: Landrace pigs were operated on and cardiac arrest was obtained by means of myocardial infarction and interruption of ventilator support., Results: Mean cardiac frequency, systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels, central venous pressure, oxygen saturation and concentration of expired CO(2) dropout occurred at seven minutes after cardiac arrest., Conclusion: The procedure was easily reproduced and a homogeneous circulatory failure could de obtained by the end of seven minutes. The model is suitable for further studies regarding abdominal organ transplantation.

Detailed knowledge of factors associated with resistance to Schistosoma mansoni infection in endemic areas might facilitate more effective schistosomiasis control. We conducted a cross-sectional study of persons resistant to schistosomiasis and found no association between socioeconomic status and resistance to infection. Mononuclear cells of resistant subjects produced higher levels of interleukin-5 (IL-5), IL-13 and interferon-γ upon stimulation with soluble egg antigen (SEA) compared with infected persons. When stimulated with Sm21.6 or Sm22.6, levels of IL-10 were higher in cell culture of resistant persons. Levels of IgE against soluble adult worm antigen (SWAP) and against interleukin-4-inducing principle from S. mansoni eggs (IPSE) and levels of IgG4 against SWAP, SEA, and Sm22.6 were lower in the resistant group compared with the susceptible group. Our data suggest that socioeconomic status could not fully explain resistance to S. mansoni infection observed in the studied area. However, a mixture of Th1 and Th2 immune responses and low levels of specific IgG4 against parasite antigens could be mediating resistance to infection.

This is a prospective, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled trial evaluating the influence of antihelminthic treatments on asthma severity in individuals living in an endemic area of schistosomiasis. Patients from group 1 received placebo of Albendazole or of Praziquantel and from group 2 received Albendazole and Praziquantel. Asthma severity was assessed by clinical scores and by pulmonary function test. There was no significant difference in the asthma scores from D0 to D1-D7 after Albendazole or Praziquantel and from D0 to D30-90 after Albendazole or Praziquantel in both, group 1 and 2. It was observed, however, a clinical worsening of the overall studied population after 6 months and 12 months of antihelminthic treatments. Additionally, we observed increased frequency of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) <80% on 12 and 18 months after treatment. The worsening of asthma severity after repeated antihelminthic treatments is consistent with the hypothesis of the protective role conferred by helminths in atopic diseases.

Objective: To determine whether a heat and moisture exchange device (HME) prevents a decrease in body temperature in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs undergoing orthopedic procedures., Design: Blinded randomized controlled clinical trial., Animals: 60 privately owned dogs weighing at least 15 kg (33 lb)., Procedures: Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups (n = 20/group): HME placed immediately after anesthetic induction with isoflurane, after transfer to the operating room, or not at all. The device consisted of a hygroscopic filter placed between the endotracheal tube and the Y piece of the anesthesia circuit. Each dog was positioned on a circulating warm water blanket and had a forced-air warming blanket placed over its body. Body temperature was monitored after transfer to the operating room with a probe placed in the thoracic aspect of the esophagus., Results: Study groups did not differ significantly with respect to body weight, body condition score, reproductive status, breed, surgical procedure, preoperative sedative and opioid administration, anesthetic induction drug, local nerve block technique, or operating room assignment. There were no significant differences among groups in esophageal temperature variables, interval between anesthetic induction and surgery, surgery duration, anesthesia duration, or oxygen flow rate. However, the relationship between temperature delta and body weight was significant and relevant (R(2) = 0.23), as was the association between temperature nadir and body weight (R(2)= 0.10). As body weight increased, the temperature delta decreased and temperature nadir increased. No other significant relationships were identified., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Inclusion of an HME in healthy dogs undergoing anesthesia for an elective orthopedic surgery did not facilitate maintenance of body temperature throughout the procedure.

The Amazonian rainforest is arguably the most species-rich terrestrial ecosystem in the world, yet the timing of the origin and evolutionary causes of this diversity are a matter of debate. We review the geologic and phylogenetic evidence from Amazonia and compare it with uplift records from the Andes. This uplift and its effect on regional climate fundamentally changed the Amazonian landscape by reconfiguring drainage patterns and creating a vast influx of sediments into the basin. On this "Andean" substrate, a region-wide edaphic mosaic developed that became extremely rich in species, particularly in Western Amazonia. We show that Andean uplift was crucial for the evolution of Amazonian landscapes and ecosystems, and that current biodiversity patterns are rooted deep in the pre-Quaternary.

Chronic schistosomiasis induces Th2/T regulatory responses which are able to down-modulate allergic inflammation and asthma. Because co-stimulatory molecules and IL-10 are essential for inducing tolerance, the aim of this study was to determine by flow cytometry, the expression of CD28, CTLA4, CD40L, CD80, CD86, HLA-DR, IL-10 and IL-10 receptor, by mononuclear cells from asthmatic individuals infected with Schistosoma mansoni and compare with non-infected individuals. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stained with fluorochrome conjugated antibodies for the expression of co-stimulatory molecules, and for intracellular CTLA4 and IL-10 expression. There was no significant difference in the frequency of T cells expressing CD28 between the two groups. However, the frequency of TCD4(+) cells expressing CTLA4 and CD40L was higher in infected asthmatics. The frequency of monocytes expressing CD80 and CD86 did not differ between groups, while the expression of HLA-DR and IL-10 receptor was higher on monocytes of infected individuals. Furthermore, monocytes and CD4(+)CD25(+) cells of infected individuals expressed higher levels of IL-10. We conclude that, besides alternatively-activated monocytes that are, together with CD4(+)CD25(+) cells, important sources of IL-10, CTLA4 and CD40L expression may also participate in the down-modulation of inflammatory allergic response in S. mansoni-infected asthmatics.

Objective: To assess the brachial plexus block in chickens by an axillary approach and using a peripheral nerve stimulator., Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blinded study., Animals: Six, 84-week old, female chickens., Methods: Midazolam (1 mg kg(-1)) and butorphanol (1 mg kg(-1)) were administered into the pectoralis muscle. Fifteen minutes later, the birds were positioned in lateral recumbency and following palpation of the anatomic landmarks, a catheter was inserted using an axillary approach to the brachial plexus. Lidocaine or bupivacaine (1 mL kg(-1)) was injected after plexus localization by the nerve stimulator. Sensory function was tested before and after blockade (carpus, radius/ulna, humerus and pectoralis muscle) in the blocked and unblocked wings. The latency to onset of motor and sensory block and the duration of sensory block were recorded. A Friedman nonparametric one-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare scores from baseline values over time and to compare the differences between wings at each time point., Results: A total of 18 blocks were performed with a success rate of 66.6% (12/18). The latency for motor block was 2.8 +/- 1.1 and 3.2 +/- 0.4 minutes for lidocaine and bupivacaine, respectively. The latencies for and durations of the sensory block were 6.0 +/- 2.5 and 64.0 +/- 18.0 and 7.8 +/- 5.8 and 91.6 +/- 61.7 minutes for lidocaine and bupivacaine, respectively. There was no statistical difference between these times for lidocaine or bupivacaine. Sensory function was not abolished in nonblocked wings., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: The brachial plexus block was an easy technique to perform but had a high failure rate. It might be useful for providing anesthesia or postoperative analgesia of the wing in chickens and exotic avian species that have similar wing anatomy.

The effects of premedicating cats with saline, xylazine or medetomidine before anaesthetising them with propofol-sevoflurane were compared. Twenty-four cats were randomly assigned to three groups of eight to receive either 0.25 ml of saline, 0.50 mg/kg of xylazine or 0.02 mg/kg of medetomidine intravenously, and anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with sevoflurane. Medetomidine produced a greater reduction in the induction dose of propofol and fewer adverse postoperative effects than saline or xylazine. Hypoxaemia was observed after induction with propofol in the cats premedicated with saline and xylazine, but not in the cats given medetomidine. The cats treated with medetomidine and xylazine developed profound bradycardia. The blood pressure of the cats premedicated with saline and xylazine decreased, but the blood pressure of the cats premedicated with medetomidine was maintained. The cats premedicated with saline took longer to recover from anaesthesia than the other two groups.

Helminthic infections have been shown to inhibit allergy skin-prick tests and to modify the course of asthma. We evaluated Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-specific immune responses in patients with asthma by measuring levels of T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cultures. PBMCs from Schistosoma mansoni-infected patients with asthma living in an area of polyhelminthic endemicity produced lower levels of interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-4 in response to D. pteronyssinus antigen (Ag) 1 than did PBMCs from helminth-free patients with asthma. In contrast, D. pteronyssinus Ag 1-specific production of IL-10 was higher in helminth-infected patients than in helminth-free patients. The addition of recombinant human IL-10 to D. pteronyssinus Ag 1-stimulated cultures of PBMCs from helminth-free patients led to down-modulation of production of IL-5. After helminth-infected patients with asthma received antihelminthic treatment, there was down-modulation of D. pteronyssinus Ag 1-specific production of IL-10 in vitro. S. mansoni-infected patients with asthma produce lower levels of Th2 cytokines than do helminth-free patients with asthma, and this modulation is likely done by IL-10.

Objective: To evaluate the sedative, analgesic, and cardiorespiratory effects of intramascular (IM) romifidine in cats., Study Design: Prospective, randomized experimental trial., Animals: Ten healthy adult cats., Methods: Romifidine (100, 200, and 400 microg kg(-1)) or xylazine (1 mg kg(-1)) was given IM in a cross-over study design. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), hemoglobin saturation, oscillometric arterial pressure, and scores for sedation, muscle relaxation, position, auditory response, and analgesia were determined before and after drug administration. Time to recumbency, duration of recumbency, and time to recover from sedation were determined. Subjective evaluation and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded before and at regular intervals for 60 minutes after drug administration., Results: Bradycardia developed in all cats that were given romifidine or xylazine. No other significant differences in physiologic parameters were observed from baseline values or between treatments. Increasing the dose of romifidine did not result in increased sedation or muscle relaxation. Cats given xylazine showed higher sedation and muscle relaxation scores over time. Analgesia scores were significantly higher after administration of romifidine (400 microg kg(-1)) and xylazine (1 mg kg(-1)) than after romifidine at 100 or 200 microg kg(-1). Duration of lateral recumbency was not significantly different between treatments; however, cats took longer to recover after administration of 400 micro g kg(-1) romifidine., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Bradycardia is the most important adverse effect after IM administration of romifidine at doses ranging from 100 to 400 microg kg(-1) or 1 mg kg(-1) of xylazine in cats. The sedative effects of romifidine at 200 microg kg(-1) are comparable to those of 1 mg kg(-1) of xylazine, although muscle relaxation and analgesia were significantly less with romifidine than with xylazine.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of a combination of tiletamine-zolazepam-romifidine-atropine in ocelots., Design: Prospective experimental trial., Animals: Eight captive adult ocelots (three females and five males)., Methods: Calculated doses of tiletamine-zolazepam (3.75 mg kg(-1)), romifidine (50 microg kg(-1)) and atropine (0.04 mg kg(-1)) were administered intramuscularly. After immobilization, animals were weighed and the real doses determined. Heart rate, respiratory frequency, noninvasive systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure, arterial oxygen hemoglobin saturation, and rectal temperature were measured. Data were analyzed by means of anova for repeated measures, followed by the Tukey test to compare values over time., Results: Doses administered were 3.4 +/- 0.6 mg kg(-1) of tiletamine-zolazepam, 0.04 +/- 7.0 mg kg(-1) of romifidine, and 0.03 +/- 0.007 mg kg(-1) of atropine. The mean time to recumbency and duration of immobilization were 7.0 +/- 4.5 and 109.2 +/- 27.9 minutes, respectively. The median times to standing and walking were 52.3 [0-90] and 2.3 [0-69.3] minutes, respectively. A decrease in heart rate was observed 45 minutes following drug administration. Arterial blood pressure was maintained during the study., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: This protocol produced good immobilization in ocelots with minimal changes over time in cardiovascular parameters.

The cardiovascular, respiratory, and anesthetic effects of medetomidine-ketamine (20 microg/kg bodyweight [BW] and 10 mg/kg BW) (MK group) or dexmedetomidine-ketamine (10 microg/kg BW and 10 mg/kg BW) (DK group) were studied in golden-headed lion tamarins. Heart rate decreased after administration of both combinations; this reduction was statistically greater in the DK group than in the MK group after 15 and 45 minutes. Systolic arterial pressure decreased in a similar way in both groups, except at 15 minutes, when systolic arterial pressure was significantly lower in the DK group. Diastolic arterial pressure, mean arterial pressure, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature were progressively reduced in all groups. Sedation time was significantly shorter and anesthesia time was significantly longer in the DK group compared with MK group. Anesthetic quality and analgesia scores were significantly greater at 5 and 15 minutes in the DK group compared with the MK group. The administration of dexmedetomidine-ketamine is as safe and effective as the administration of medetomidine-ketamine in tamarins.

Helminthic infections and allergic diseases are highly prevalent in many parts of the world. Although skin reactivity to indoor allergens is decreased in subjects from helminthic endemic areas, the degree of exposure to mite allergens has not yet been investigated in these areas. This study evaluated the association between exposure to dust mites and skin reactivity to mite allergens in subjects with a history of wheezing in the last 12 months selected from a rural endemic area for schistosomiasis (group I, n = 21), and two non-Schistosoma mansoni endemic locale, a rural area (group II, n = 21) and a urban slum area (group III, n = 21). All subjects were evaluated by skin prick tests with mite allergens, and for total and specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) against dust mites, antibodies for S. mansoni, and for intestinal parasites. Dust samples from each subjects' home were quantified for mite allergen and species of the mite identification. Except for S. mansoni infection which was more prevalent in group I than in groups II and III (p < 0.0001), the prevalence of intestinal parasites, and total and specific IgE levels were similar for all groups. Despite the levels of mite allergens and specifically to Der p 1 detected in dust samples of subjects home from all three areas, the frequency of positive skin reactivity to mite antigens was significantly lower (19.0%) in subjects from group I relative to group II (76.2%) and group III (57.1%; p < 0.001). This result suggests that S. mansoni infection could modulate the immediate hypersensitivity skin response to mite allergens in highly exposed subjects.

The purpose of this report was to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects and efficacy of dexmedetomidine as a premedicant agent in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy anaesthetized with propofol-sevoflurane. Cats were randomly divided into two groups of eight animals each. Dexmedetomidine (0.01 mg/kg) or 0.9% saline was administered intravenously (D and S, respectively). After 5 min, propofol was administered intravenously and anaesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. Heart and respiratory rates, arterial blood pressure, oxygen saturation, rectal temperature and the amount of propofol needed for induction were measured. Premedication with dexmedetomidine reduced the requirement of propofol (6.7+/-3.8 mg/kg), but induced bradycardia, compared with the administration of saline (15.1+/-5.1 mg/kg). Recovery quality was significantly better in D but no significant difference in time to return of swallowing reflex was observed between groups (D=2.5+/-0.5 min; S=3.2+/-1.8 min). In conclusion, dexmedetomidine is a safe and effective agent for premedication in cats undergoing propofol-sevoflurane anaesthesia with minimal adverse effects.

Background: Helminthic infections decrease skin reactivity to indoor allergens, but data on whether they influence asthma severity are lacking., Objective: This study evaluated the course of asthma in patients with and without Schistosoma mansoni infection., Methods: Asthmatic subjects were enrolled from 3 low-socioeconomic areas: a rural area endemic for schistosomiasis (group 1) in addition to a rural area (group 2) and a slum area (group 3), both of which were not endemic for schistosomiasis. A questionnaire on the basis of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood study was applied in these 3 areas, and from each area, 21 age- and sex-matched asthmatic subjects were selected for a prospective 1-year study. Pulmonary function tests, skin prick tests with indoor allergens, stool examinations, and serum evaluations were performed in these subjects. Every 3 months, the subjects were evaluated for asthma exacerbation through physical examination, and a questionnaire regarding asthma symptoms and use of antiasthma medicine was administered., Results: The prevalence of S mansoni infection was greater in group 1 compared with in groups 2 and 3 (P <.0001), whereas the frequency of other helminth and protozoa infections was similar among the 3 groups. The frequency of positive skin test responses to indoor allergens was less (19.0%) in group 1 subjects relative to those in group 2 (76.2%) and group 3 (57.1%; P <.001). The frequencies of symptoms, use of antiasthma drugs, and pulmonary abnormal findings at physical examination were less in group 1 subjects than in group 2 and 3 subjects (P =.0001)., Conclusion: Our results suggest that S mansoni infection is associated with a milder course of asthma.

Objective: To evaluate the use of a combination of tiletamine/zolazepam and xylazine (TZX) in collared and white-lipped peccaries and to compare its efficacy as an anesthetic technique with that of tiletamine/zolazepam and butorphanol (TZB)., Study Design: Prospective experimental trial., Animals: Seven white-lipped peccaries (Tayassu pecari) (four females and three males) and four collared peccaries (Tayasu tajacu) (two males and two females)., Methods: Animal immobilization was attempted with TZX and TZB (IM) on two different occasions. Heart and respiratory rates (HR, RR), rectal temperature (RT), sedation, muscle relaxation, posture, auditory response and analgesia were evaluated every 15 minutes during immobilization. Induction, anesthesia, standing and walking time were determined after drug administration., Results: Doses for white-lipped peccaries were 1.23 +/- 0.26 mg kg(-1) (mean +/- SD) of TZ and 1.23 +/- 0.26 mg kg(-1) of X, and 1.46 +/- 0.09 mg kg(-1) of TZ and 0.14 +/- 0.008 mg kg(-1) of B; doses for collared peccaries were 1.51 +/- 0.29 mg kg(-1) of TZ and 1.51 +/- 0.29 mg kg(-1) of X and 1.68 +/- 0.02 mg kg(-1) of TZ and 0.17 +/- 0.002 mg kg(-1) of B. In white-lipped peccaries, both drug combinations provided a smooth induction and good immobilization for more than an hour. Anesthesia and standing times were significantly longer in animals given TZB, whereas walking time was significantly longer in animals given TZX. A significant decrease in HR was observed with both treatments. Respiratory rate decreased significantly with TZX, but the rate remained higher than with TZB. Induction and recovery quality in white-lipped peccaries was better with TZB than with TZX. Neither protocol provided adequate immobilization in collared peccaries., Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: At the doses described, TZB is effective in providing a long period of immobilization, whereas TZX is adequate for short to medium immobilization in white-lipped peccaries. Neither drug combination was effective in collared peccaries at the doses given.

Objective: To determine sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of dexmedetomidine alone and in combination with butorphanol or ketamine in cats., Design: Randomized crossover study., Animals: 6 healthy adult cats., Procedures: Cats were given dexmedetomidine alone (10 microg/kg [4.5 mg/lb], IM), a combination of dexmedetomidine (10 microg/kg, IM) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg [0.09 mg/lb], IM), or a combination of dexmedetomidine (10 microg/kg, IM) and ketamine (5 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], IM). Treatments were administered in random order, with > or = 1 week between treatments. Physiologic variables were assessed before and after drug administration. Time to lateral recumbency, duration of lateral recumbency, time to sternal recumbency, time to recovery from sedation, and subjective evaluation of sedation, muscle relaxation, and auditory response were assessed., Results: Each treatment resulted in adequate sedation; time to lateral recumbency, duration of lateral recumbency, and time to recovery from sedation were similar among treatments. Time to sternal recumbency was significantly greater after administration of dexmedetomidine-ketamine. Heart rate decreased significantly after each treatment; however, the decrease was more pronounced after administration of dexmedetomidine-butorphanol, compared with that following the other treatments. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements decreased significantly from baseline with all treatments; 50 minutes after drug administration, mean blood pressure differed significantly from baseline only when cats received dexmedetomidine and butorphanol., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Results suggested that in cats, administration of dexmedetomidine combined with butorphanol or ketamine resulted in more adequate sedation, without clinically important cardiovascular effects, than was achieved with dexmedetomidine alone.

Background: Mite allergens have been involved in airway sensitization and allergic diseases. Immunoassays for the identification and quantifiction of house dust mite (HDM) allergens are useful to improve the knowledge of regional mite fauna and the remediation of mite allergens in allergic diseases. The present study analyzed the association between levels of HDM allergen and results of mite identification or skin prick test (SPT) in two different areas of Bahia, Brazil., Methods: Forty-two asthmatic subjects from a rural area (group I; n = 21) and a slum (group II; n = 21) were evaluated through SPT with HDM allergens and had dust samples collected at their homes for mite identification and allergen measurements., Results: Positive SPT to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae and Blomia tropicalis allergens were observed in 42.9, 38.0 and 42.9% subjects from group I and in 47.6, 19.0 and 33.3% subjects from group II, respectively. D. pteronyssinus and B. tropicalis were identified in approximately 76 and 50% of samples from both groups, respectively. D. farinae was identified in 38.0 and 9.5% of samples from groups I and II, respectively (p < 0.005). Der p 1, Der f 1 and Blo t 5 detection were associated with mite identification (p < 0.05). Association between HDM allergen levels over 2 microg/g of dust and positive SPT occurred only with D. pteronyssinus (p < 0.0001)., Conclusions: D. pteronyssinus was the most prevalent mite species in this study followed by B. tropicalis and D. farinae. Immunoassays done to measure mite allergens were associated with mite-species identification. We conclude that these three mite species must be included on panels for the diagnosis of allergic airway diseases in subjects living in such regions., (Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel)