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PURPOSE: Nearly 40% of all-terrain vehicle (ATV) crash-related fatalities involve pediatric patients, with many of these patients dying from head and neck injuries. West Virginia is in a unique position to examine these injuries because of its high rate of ATV use. This study examines craniofacial ATV-related trauma in children. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a single-center, retrospective, descriptive study of 26 children presenting with a craniofacial injury(ies) resulting from an ATV crash from January 2001 to December 2004. RESULTS: Twenty-six children (65% boys) with a mean age of 13.1 years presented with craniofacial injuries during the study period. Two patients were helmeted. Mortality was 3.8% (n = 1, head injury related, postinjury day 3). Patients were most often drivers of the ATV (65%), although girls were more likely to be passengers (P = .03). Facial contusions, lacerations, and abrasions were highly prevalent (62%, 69%, 65%, respectively), as were fractures of the facial bones and skull (77%). Thirty-five percent sustained closed head injuries, which were significantly associated with mandible fractures (odds ratio 12.8%; 95% CI, 1.15-143). Mean length of hospital stay was 4.6 +/- 5 days, and 36% required an ICU stay (mean, 5.1 +/- 3 days). Twenty-four percent required ventilator support (mean, 107 +/- 43 hours; range, 48 to 168 hours). Operative intervention was required in 72% of patients (n = 18). CONCLUSION: Maxillofacial injury patterns from ATV-related crashes in children suggest a high percentage of significant facial injuries and closed head injuries. As new ATV legislation that addresses operator use is enacted, a decrease in the number and severity of craniofacial injuries may be seen. Copyright © 2006 by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracts of Cryptocarya species have been shown to reduce biofilms, demonstrating their antimicrobial effects. The extracts can be fractionated to optimize their potential. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity of Cryptocarya moschata fractions against planktonic cells and biofilms of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans . Four fractions were prepared: 100% hexane, acetate/hexane 1:1, 100% ethyl acetate, and water. The effect of the fractions on planktonic cells was assessed by counting the colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL). Biofilm tests included CFU/mL, cell metabolic activity, and qualitative analysis using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Results were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney U test (α = 0.05). The fractions contained lipophilic constituents, styrylpyrones, glycosylated flavonoids, and alkaloids. Acetate/hexane (1:1) and 100% ethyl acetate fractions reduced the CFU/mL of planktonic C. albicans. C. moschata fractions did not affect planktonic S. mutans . For biofilms, the fractions reduced the CFU/mL (from 2-5 logs) and cell metabolic activity (approximately 80% reduction in a single-species biofilm). CLSM showed the fractions reduced microorganism viability and damaged the extracellular matrix of biofilms. We conclude that the acetate/hexane 1:1 and 100% ethyl acetate C. moschata fractions exhibit antimicrobial effects against biofilms.

Objective: This study proposed to assess the effect of Cryptocarya moschata extract on single and mixed biofilms formed on denture base and reline acrylic resin., Materials and Methods: Single and mixed biofilms of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans were formed on the samples and treated with C. moschata extract; Nystatin solution at 100,000 IU/mL or Penicillin antibiotic solution at 100,000 IU/mL; or PBS solution. Antimicrobial activity was analyzed by counting colony-forming units, metabolism assay, assessment of protein components of the biofilm matrix, and of cell viability using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's post-test (α = 0.05)., Results: Cryptocarya moschata extract reduced cell viability of C. albicans and S. mutans single and mixed biofilms formed on samples. For all types of biofilms in the C. moschata group, there was a log reduction of the biofilm, proven by the Alamar Blue assay. Analyzing the extracellular matrix protein components, groups treated with the extract exhibited a lower level of fluorescence compared to the PBS groups. Reduction in thickness biofilm and viable cells was perceptible in the C. moschata group when assessing through CLSM., Conclusion: Cryptocarya moschata extract reduced the single and mixed biofilms of C. albicans and S. mutans on acrylic resins., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

To evaluate the effect of antiseptic soap on single and dual-species biofilms of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans on denture base and reline resins. Samples of the resins were distributed into groups (n = 9) according to the prevention or disinfection protocols. In the prevention protocol, samples were immersed in the solutions (Lifebuoy, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution and PBS) for 7, 14 and 28 days before the single and dual-species biofilms formation. Overnight denture disinfection was simulated. In the disinfection protocol, samples were immersed in the same solutions during 8 hours after the single and dual-species biofilms formation. Antimicrobial activity was analyzed by counting colony-forming units (CFU/mL) and evaluating cell metabolism. Cell viability and protein components of the biofilm matrix were evaluated using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were submitted to ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post-test (α = 0.05) or Dunnett's T3 multiple comparisons test. In the prevention protocol, Lifebuoy solution effectively reduced the number of CFU/mL of both species. In addition, the solution decreased the cell metabolism of the microorganisms. Regarding disinfection protocol, the Lifebuoy solution was able of reduce approximately of 2-3 logs for all the biofilms on the denture base and reline resin. Cellular metabolism was also reduced. The images obtained with CLSM corroborate these results. Lifebuoy solution was effective in reducing single and dual-species biofilms on denture base and reline resins., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Tasso et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is considered a multifactorial disease and has been associated with microbial infections, although the association with Candida spp. is still controversial. This systematic review focused on clinical trials which evaluated the relation between oral Candida spp colonization and OSCC. PubMed; Scopus; Embase; Web of Science and Scientific Direct were assessed. Independent reviewers conducted the diagram steps. For data extraction the PRISMA protocol was followed. The quality analysis of case-control studies was performed based on the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the frequency of Candida spp and the levels of microbial acetaldehyde production (MAP) being odds ratio (OR) the effect-measure applied. Eight and six studies were included in the qualitative analysis and meta-analysis, respectively. It was noted that there was a significantly higher frequency of Candida species (p = 0.0003/OR = 9.50) in patients diagnosed with OSCC than healthy patients, especially Candida krusei (p = 0.0167/OR=4.62). Candida spp., from oral cancer patients demonstrated significantly greater biofilm, biofilm metabolic activity, phospholipase, proteinase activity and a higher production of MAP (p = 0.0111/OR = 2.67). Candida species may have a potential role in OSCC development. Further studies should be conducted to elucidate the mechanism of action of Candida spp and others risk factors in the development of OSCC., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of denture cleansers on the surface roughness, Candida albicans adhesion, and biofilm formation on denture base acrylic resins., Study Selection: Electronic databases and gray literature were searched using an individual search strategy. In vitro studies that evaluated the effects of immersion in denture cleansers on the surface roughness (µm) and antimicrobial activity (CFU/mL) on samples of heat-polymerized denture base acrylic resins were included., Results: After screening, 17 studies were included, and a qualitative synthesis was performed. After assessing the risk of bias, only nine studies were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis results showed that the evaluated solutions (0.5% sodium hypochlorite, 1% sodium hypochlorite, alkaline peroxide, and natural substances) did not influence the roughness of the acrylic resin. However, in the qualitative analysis, it was not possible to confirm an association between roughness and C. albicans adhesion and biofilm formation on the acrylic resin samples., Conclusion: Denture cleansers did not affect the surface roughness of denture base acrylic resins.

The objective of this study was evaluate, in vivo model, the antifungal activity of Cryptocarya moschata extract against Candida albicans and its biocompatibility. The animals (N = 50) were divided into groups (n = 5): CI/CG: candidiasis was induced and treated with C. moschata extract (0.045 g/mL); CI/NG: candidiasis was induced and treated with nystatin; CI/NT: candidiasis was induced and no treated; CI/CG-2: candidiasis was induced and treated with C. moschata extract (0.045 g/mL), reapplied after 24 h; CI/NG-2: candidiasis was induced and treated with nystatin, reapplied after 24 h; NCI/NT: candidiasis was not induced and no treated; NCI/CG: candidiasis was not induced and treated with C. moschata extract (0.045 g/mL); NCI/NG: candidiasis was not induced treated with nystatin; NCI/CG-2: candidiasis was not induced and treated with C. moschata extract (0.045 g/mL), reapplied after 24 h; NCI/NG-2: candidiasis was not induced and treated with nystatin, reapplied after 24 h. The fungi present in the lingual dorsum of mice were collected and analyzed by the count of colony-forming units. In addition, histological analysis was performed. Histologically, there was no cell damage in the mice's tongue, and there was a decrease in Candida biofilm, similar to the use of nystatin. It was concluded that the C. moschata extract was effective against C. albicans and was biocompatible., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

This study evaluated the efficacy of Cryptocarya spp extracts on biofilm of Candida albicans and its biocompatibility. Mature biofilm of C. albicans was formed on denture base acrylic resin samples and the fungicidal effect of the extracts was evaluated by Alamar Blue® assay, counting colony-forming units (CFU/mL) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Cytotoxicity of extracts from Cryptocarya species was evaluated by AlamarBlue® assay, using normal oral keratinocytes (NOK) cells. In additional, Analysis of plant extracts by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-DAD-MS) was performed. The results showed significant reduction in the cellular metabolism and in the number of CFU/mL of C. albicans (p<0.05). The concentration of 0.045 g/mL completely inhibited the number of CFU/mL. Regarding cytotoxicity, all extracts decreased cell viability compared to the control group. CLSM analysis showed predominance of live cells, but with a great difference between the groups. Antimicrobial activity of extracts from Cryptocarya on C. albicans biofilm was confirmed. However, all extracts showed toxicity on NOK cells., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Understanding the interaction between oral keratinocytes (NOK-si) and Candida albicans is fundamental for the development of prevention strategies and new therapies for oral candidiasis. This study evaluated the dynamics and metabolic profile of these cells growing in co-culture by means of cell metabolism, number of CFU ml -1 , and production of enzymes, cytokines, and metabolites. The data were analyzed by ANOVAs and post hoc tests (α = 0.05). In co-cultures, there were significant decreases in the cell metabolism of NOK-si and C. albicans and increases in the CFU ml -1 values of C. albicans biofilm. There were also significant increases in the production of cytokines by NOK-si and proteinase by C. albicans biofilm after their interaction. The metabolic balance of the main metabolites, amino acids, and extracellular and intracellular metabolites was shifted in favor of the co-cultures, while aromatic alcohols were secreted in higher amounts by the biofilm of C. albicans . It was concluded that the interaction of cells in co-culture influenced their dynamics over time.

Objective: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of statherin and its naturally occurring peptides (DR9-2, DR9, GE-12, IT-32, GQ-19, IP-18) on Candida albicans metabolism and biofilm development., Design: After the killing assay, a peptide pellicle was formed on the bottom of a polystyrene plate at the IC 50 of each peptide. Over the peptide pellicle, Candida albicans biofilm (48 h) was grown. The peptides antimicrobial activity after the peptides treatment was evaluated by alamarBlue, total biofilm biomass and colony forming units (CFU) counting., Results: The pellicle with statherin and the peptides (DR9-2, DR9, GE-12, IP-18, GQ-19) was able to reduce he viability of Candida albicans compared to the negative control. They also decreased cell proliferation by 20 % and total biomass. IT-32 showed the highest reduction in cell proliferation and biomass, which was similar to the positive control, histatin 5., Conclusions: These results suggest that the naturally occuring peptides from statherin are able to decrease Candida albicans colonization and biofilm proliferation., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms among calcium channel blocker users, and the impact on patients' quality of life., Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at one hospital and 2 community pharmacies in Lahore, Pakistan, from November 2017 to July 2018, and comprised patients using calcium channel blockers. Data was collected using standardised scales to assess lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life. Data was analysed using SPSS 22., Results: Of the 410 subjects, 315 (76.8%) were males. The overall median age was 50.84 years, IQR 19 with 126 (30.7%) aged 41-50 years. Of the total, 108 (26.3%) patients were on calcium channel blockers alone, while the rest were taking it in combination with other drugs. Prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms was 307 (74.9%); mild 103 (25.1%), moderate 201 (49.1%) and severe 106 (25.9%). The symptoms were significantly associated with reduced quality of life (p<0.05)., Conclusion: Majority calcium channel blockers users had clinically significant lower urinary tract symptoms which significantly reduced patients' quality of life.

Purpose: This study investigated the effect of long-term daily chemical disinfection on the topographic and Candida albicans biofilm formation on a denture base resin and a reline acrylic resin., Material and Methods: Circular samples (14 × 1.2 mm) were fabricated from a denture base (Vipi Wave) and reline acrylic resins (Tokuyama Rebase Fast II). Samples were kept in 50 ml of distilled water (48 h at 37°C). Subsequently, the samples were immersed in five different solutions: 0.5% sodium hypochlorite; 3.8% sodium perborate; 2% chlorhexidine gluconate; apple vinegar containing 4% maleic acid; and distilled water (control group). The specimen was immersed in the solutions for 8 h daily and transferred to distilled water at 37°C for more 16 h. The surface topographic and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028) biofilm formation were evaluated at baseline (before chemical disinfection) and after 1, 3 and 6 months of immersion. The surface topographic was evaluated by arithmetical roughness average (Ra) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), while the biofilm formation was evaluated by colony-forming units (CFU/ml) method and Alamar Blue assay (cell metabolism). The results were evaluated by three-way analysis of variance (ANOVAs) and post-hoc tests (α = 0.05)., Results: The results showed statistically significant effects from the type of acrylic resin (p = 0.029) and time (p <0.001) on the roughness of the specimen. In general, the reline resin had higher roughness than the denture base resin. In addition, the roughness of the samples after 1, 3 and 6 months of immersion in the cleaning solutions was higher than at baseline. In relation to the microbiological assays, there were no statistically significant differences (p >0.055) in the CFU/ml values of the biofilms among the different resins, periods of time and cleaning solutions. Considering the metabolism of the cells within the biofilms, the results showed that, at baseline, it was statistically significantly higher (p <0.05) than after 1, 3 and 6 months of storage. The SEM images showed that all disinfectant solutions provided surface changes of both acrylic resins (base and reline) after 1, 3 and 6 months of immersion., Conclusions: The roughness of both acrylic resins was affected by the disinfection in all cleaning agents, increasing over time, and this effect was more evident in the reline acrylic resin group. This surface change was also observed in the SEM images. While the number of cells within the biofilms was not affected by immersion in the cleaning agents, their metabolism was lower after 1, 3 and 6 months of immersion.

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of liquid disinfectant soaps for the reduction of microorganisms present on maxillary complete dentures., Materials and Methods: The selected patients (N = 28) were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7), and each group underwent all four disinfection treatments in a different order. The disinfection treatments evaluated were: 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (positive control); Dettol liquid soap; Lifebuoy liquid soap; and phosphate-buffered saline solution (negative control). The patients were instructed to immerse their maxillary dentures in the disinfectant solution for 8 hours (overnight) for 7 days, with the solutions in a randomized sequence with a washout period of 1 week between solutions. Biofilm samples of the dental prostheses were obtained before and after each treatment with a sterile swab, and the microbiologic material was diluted and plated in selective media for Candida spp. Colony-forming unit count (CFU/mL) was performed in each group. One-way ANOVA with Welch correction was used for analysis, with Games-Howell post hoc test with a significance level of .05., Results: A 3-log reduction in microorganisms was considered effective compared to baseline. The highest incidence observed was for Candida albicans, which presented with a frequency between 66% and 92%, followed by C tropicalis, with a frequency between 7% and 33%, in all experimental groups. Sodium hypochlorite was able to reduce more than 3 log 10 of microorganisms for all patients, showing high antifungal effectiveness for both C albicans and C tropicalis species. Regarding the experimental groups, both liquid soaps (Dettol and Lifebuoy) were effective in reducing the two types of microorganisms., Conclusion: Liquid soaps were effective at reducing biofilm and may be an alternative for disinfection of removable partial dentures or complete dentures.

Background: Staphylococcus aureus have a great ability to become rapidly resistant to conventional antimicrobial therapies. This study evaluated the efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) mediated by Curcumin (Cur) and light-emitting diode (LED) in the inactivation of biofilms of methicillin susceptible and resistant S. aureus (MSSA and MRSA, respectively)., Methods: Biofilms were treated with Cur (20, 40 or 80 μM) and illuminated with LED source (455 ± 3 nm; 5.28 J/cm 2 ) (aPDT groups), or treated either with Cur or LED only. Other samples were not exposed to Cur or LED (negative control). The biofilms viability after all experimental conditions were evaluated by counting the number of colonies (CFU/mL) and XTT assay. Additional samples were also evaluated by LIVE/DEAD® staining using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were analyzed by ANOVAs followed by the Games-Howell post hoc test (α = 0.05)., Results: For both strains, all aPDT groups significantly reduced both CFU/mL and metabolic activity of biofilms compared to the negative control (p < 0.001). The results were enhanced when 80 μM of Cur was used. CLSM images showed that both bacteria biofilms submitted to aPDT had a large number of red-stained colonies, especially at aPDT80. In general, MRSA biofilms tended to be less susceptible to aPDT than MSSA biofilms., Conclusions: It can be concluded that aPDT mediated by Cur and LED was an efficient method to inactivate 48 -h biofilms of both S. aureus strains., Competing Interests: Declarations of interest All authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Statement of Problem: The longevity of dental implants depends on the maintenance of peri-implant tissue and absence of inflammation. How the physical-chemical properties intrinsic to each material over time can affect adhesion, given constant cell turnover and biofilm development, remains unclear., Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of aging on the viability, adhesion, and proliferation of normal oral keratinocytes (Nok-si) and on the multispecies biofilm formation of Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), and Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis)., Material and Methods: Zirconia (ZrO 2 ) and titanium (Ti) disks were analyzed by surface roughness, water contact angle, and X-ray diffraction before and after aging in an autoclave. The Nok-si cell viability was evaluated by using a 3-(4.5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)2.5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay (MTT), morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and proliferation and adhesion by using a confocal microscope. Multispecies biofilms were analyzed quantitatively by colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) and qualitatively by SEM., Results: For Ti, the aging process affected the roughness and wettability. However, for ZrO 2 , the aging did not affect roughness but did affect wettability and the ratio of the tetragonal to monoclinic phase (P<.05). A significant difference was found in the bacterial growth for Ti (nonaged and aged) in relation to the control, and no differences were found in Ti before and after aging; however, ZrO 2 had increased growth of microorganisms after aging. For ZrO 2 , a statistically significant difference was found between aged ZrO 2 and the control (P<.001)., Conclusions: The results indicate that, after the aging, Ti showed better cell adhesion and proliferation and lower biofilm adhesion than zirconia., (Copyright © 2019 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To evaluate the hardness, roughness and color stability of artificial teeth after immersion in liquid disinfectant soaps., Methods: Artificial teeth (Vipi Dent Plus, ArtiPlus and Biolux) were divided into four groups (n=15), according to the type of immersion solution: distilled water/control group (DW); liquid disinfectant soap Dettol (SD); liquid disinfectant soap Protex (SP); and liquid disinfectant soap Lifebuoy (SL). The immersion cycles occurred every day, for 8 hours at room temperature in each disinfectant solution, following immersion in distilled water for 16 hours at 37°C. All solutions were changed daily. Properties were evaluated after 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days of immersion. The data were analyzed with a mixed three-way ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni post-hoc test (α= 0.05)., Results: Vipi teeth presented significant reduction (P< 0.05) in hardness and roughness prior to 7 days of immersion in all solutions, including control group. These values, in general, were maintained during the 28 days. Biolux teeth, in general, did not present significant changes in hardness prior to immersion in any of the time intervals. The roughness of these teeth increased after 21 and 28 days of immersion (P< 0.05) in all the solutions. ArtiPlus teeth maintained stable roughness and hardness during the assessment period, regardless of the type of soap used. Color alterations were considered clinically acceptable. The liquid soaps may be an alternative for the disinfection of partial or total removable dentures., Clinical Significance: The liquid disinfectant soaps tested did not significantly alter the hardness, roughness and color stability of the artificial teeth tested and may be an alternative for the disinfection of partial or total removable dentures., Competing Interests: The authors declared no conflict of interest., (Copyright©American Journal of Dentistry.)

Denture stomatitis triggered by Candida species requires better preventive measures. This study evaluated the physical and biological properties of a denture base acrylic resin after immersion in antiseptic soaps. Acrylic resin specimens were prepared and stored in distinct solutions for 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The solutions were as follows: DW: distilled water at 37°C (control group); DS: cycles of daily immersion in Dettol soap for 8 hours at room temperature, followed by immersion in distilled water for 16 hours at 37°C; PS: cycles of daily immersion in Protex soap, as described for the previous group; LS: cycles of daily immersion in Lifebuoy soap, as described for the DS group. The parameters evaluated at each time point were the following: biofilm formation capacity by Candida albicans and reduction of preformed fungal biofilms, cytotoxicity, surface roughness, hardness, and color change. For the fungal adhesion phase, the type of soap had a statistically significant effect (p = 0.0292), but after 24 hours, no differences were found between solutions or between storage times. Regarding the efficacy of biofilm reduction, there was a significant difference when the groups were compared to each other (p = 0.014). Dettol and Lifebuoy eliminated the preformed biofilm on the specimens. Moreover, all the soaps were classified as non-cytotoxic (on HaCaT cell line) because there was no difference in cell viability between the different groups, except after 21 days, when a decrease in cell viability occurred, regardless of the type of soap. Regarding the roughness, there was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) between the groups. Lifebuoy decreased resin hardness regardless of storage time (p = 0.003). After 21 and 28 days of storage, there was an increase in hardness value, regardless of the type of soap. The specimens' color, according to the National Bureau of Standards values, ranged from 0.27 to 0.58 (i.e., imperceptible or mild color changes). In general, the disinfectant soaps were not able to prevent biofilm formation, but all the soaps were effective in reducing the preformed biofilm. In addition, all soaps were non-cytotoxic and did not change surface roughness, hardness (except Lifebuoy), and color (except Lifebuoy). Therefore, immersion in two antiseptic soaps (Protex and Dettol) may be a cheap and easy procedure for preventing denture stomatitis., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Statement of Problem: The daily immersion of dentures in disinfectant solutions can cause the incorporation of toxic substances in the acrylic resins, and studies evaluating the cumulative effect of disinfectant solutions on cell culture are lacking., Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of cell cultures of denture base and reline acrylic resins after immersion in disinfectant solutions., Material and Methods: Disk-shaped specimens (14×1.2 mm) were obtained and divided into groups (n=9) according to the disinfectant solutions (distilled water [control], 2% chlorhexidine digluconate, 3.8% sodium perborate, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite, and apple vinegar) and to the storage period (0, 1, 3, and 6 months). Solutions were changed daily. After the different storage periods, specimens were immersed in culture medium for 24 hours, and extracts were obtained. Human keratinocytes were cultivated, and the cellular metabolism was evaluated by using Alamar Blue. Data were submitted to 3-way analysis of variance and Games-Howell post hoc tests (α=.05)., Results: Both of the acrylic resins tested showed similar biocompatibility properties after immersion in different solutions (P=.400). Immersion in distilled water, 3.8% sodium perborate, and 0.5% sodium hypochlorite did not affect the cellular metabolism of the keratinocytes (P>.05), regardless of the immersion period and the type of acrylic resin (P>.05). Immersion in 2% chlorhexidine digluconate or apple vinegar resulted in high cytotoxicity over time, until the third month (P<.05), after which no changes were observed (P>.05)., Conclusions: The type of acrylic resin (base or reline) had no significant effect on the viability of cells. Vinegar and chlorhexidine digluconate solutions increased in cytotoxic effect over time, and were strongly cytotoxic after 6 months of immersion. Sodium perborate and sodium hypochlorite were noncytotoxic in all periods of time tested., (Copyright © 2018 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The objective of the current study was to develop an Urdu version of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS-U) and validate it for Pakistani patients suffering from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)., Material and Methods: IPSS-U was developed by a two-step forward and back translation and to evaluate its psychometric properties, a prospective study involving patients suffering from LUTS (n=267) was conducted at Outpatient Urology Department, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. Internal consistency and reproducibility were assessed using Cronbach's alpha and the Intra-Class Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Moreover, exploratory, and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to determine dimensionality of IPSS-U items., Results: Overall reliability of IPSS-U was satisfactory (Cronbach's alpha=0.72, ICC of symptom questions=0.92 and ICC of QOL index=0.75). Exploratory factor analysis revealed that two factors were consistent, which together explained 59.8% of the variance. IPSS-U items 1, 3, 5 and 6 were components of the first factor whereas item 2, 4 and 7 were components of the second factor. All the items loaded high on their factors and there were no cross loadings. Moreover, confirmatory factor analysis also showed two-factor model, with acceptable fitting patterns., Conclusion: IPSS-U is a valid and reliable non-gender specific instrument to assess the frequency and severity of LUTS in Urdu-speaking population.

Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared

Purpose: To investigate the influence of surface characteristics and saliva on the adhesion and biofilm formation of Candida glabrata and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to soft liners and tissue conditioners., Methods: For each material (Ufi Gel P - UG; Sofreliner S - SS; Trusoft - TR; Coe Comfort - CC; Softone - ST), specimens were prepared and roughness (Ra), hydrophobicity (water contact angles-WCA) and surface free energy (SFE) were measured. Surface morphology was also analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Specimens were incubated in C. glabrata or MRSA suspensions for 90 minutes (adhesion) or 48 hours (biofilm). The absorbance (AB) was measured by XTT assay. Experiments were performed using specimens that were either uncoated or had been coated with saliva. Data were analyzed using one- or two-way ANOVAs, followed by Tukey's test (α= 0.05)., Results: TR exhibited the highest Ra and UG the lowest. SEM images also showed that UG and SS had smooth surfaces, while TR presented several irregularities and pores. In the absence of saliva, UG and SS presented higher WCA and lower SFE than the other materials. XTT results showed that, in the C. glabrata adhesion assay, the AB value was higher for TR followed by UG > CC> SS> ST. For the biofilm formation of C. glabrata, AB values were in the following order TR > CC = UG > ST = SS. In the adhesion assay, AB values obtained for MRSA were TR > UG = CC > ST > SS and for the biofilm formation were TR > ST > CC > UG > SS. Saliva decreased the WCA and increased the SFE for all materials. In general, the presence of saliva decreased the adhesion and biofilm formation of both microorganisms to the acrylic-based material (TR) and tissue conditioners (CC and ST), and increased for the silicone-based soft liners (UH and SS). Surface characteristics and the influence of saliva varied among materials. Roughness seemed to favor C. glabrata and MRSA adhesion and biofilm formation., Clinical Significance: The presence of microorganisms on denture liners can irritate the oral tissues and contribute to systemic diseases. Colonization with more tolerant microorganisms such as C. glabrata and MRSA may expose patients to a greater risk of infection, mainly in immunocompromised hosts, such as aged individuals after treatment of oral cancer. For this, it is important to investigate the surface characteristics of soft liners and tissue conditioners, as well as saliva, and their influence on the adhesion and biofilm formation of C. glabrata and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus., Competing Interests: The authors declared no conflict of interest. The study was supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq; grant – 304190/2013-6)., (Copyright©American Journal of Dentistry.)

Background: Computed tomography angiography has become routine in the management of penetrating trauma to the extremity. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of physical examination findings compared with computed tomography angiography for detection of clinically significant vascular injuries associated with penetrating trauma to the extremity., Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of patients presenting to a single level 1 trauma center from January 2013-June 2016. Patients with penetrating trauma to the extremity and no hard signs of vascular injury were included. Physical examination and computed tomography angiography findings were analyzed, with particular focus given to missed injuries., Results: We identified 393 patients with penetrating trauma to the extremity without hard signs of vascular injury. Computed tomography angiography was performed in 114 patients (29%). Four patients with distal pulses documented on their initial trauma surveys were found to have vascular injuries on computed tomography angiography, although 3 of these injuries were identified on repeat physical examination. One additional patient had a delayed presentation of a pseudoaneurysm. No mortality or limb loss resulted from these injuries. Total hospital charges for computed tomography angiography amounted to over $700,000., Conclusion: Patients with penetrating trauma to the extremity and no hard signs of vascular injury do not require computed tomography angiography for identification of clinically relevant vascular injuries that require emergent operative repair. Serial physical examination appears to provide accurate detection of vascular injury requiring procedural intervention., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: This clinical study evaluated the effect of microwave disinfection protocols on the occlusal pressure pattern of dentures., Materials and Methods: Dentures were constructed for 40 patients and evaluated as follows (n = 20). Group 1: Patients had the maxillary dentures submitted to microwave disinfection, once a week, for 4 weeks. Group 2: Patients had the maxillary dentures submitted to microwave disinfection, three times a week, for 4 weeks. Occlusal contacts were recorded on five occasions: 30 days after denture insertion and before first disinfection (baseline or control group); 1 week after disinfection; 2 weeks after disinfection; 3 weeks after disinfection; 4 weeks after disinfection. Occlusal contacts were analyzed by T-Scan III. Intergroup analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney test and intragroup analysis using the Friedman test with significance of 5%., Results: The results showed no significant difference between groups during the periods. The data on parameters loss of denture adaptation or complaints showed that patients used their dentures regularly for eating and expressed comfort and satisfaction in all experimental periods. The evaluation of functional occlusion revealed that the distribution of the occlusal contacts remained unaltered after disinfection., Conclusion: Microwave disinfection protocols as studied in this report did not influence occlusal contacts of the complete dentures., (© 2015 by the American College of Prosthodontists.)

A novel multifunctional nanosystem formed by magnetite nanoparticles coated with pH-responsive poly(aspartic acid) hydrogel was developed. Magnetite nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4 ) have been intensively investigated for biomedical applications due to their magnetic properties and dimensions similar to the biostructures. Poly(aspartic acid) is a water-soluble, biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, which features makes it a potential candidate for biomedical applications. The nanoparticles surface modification was carried out by crosslinking polysuccinimide on the magnetite nanoparticles surface and hydrolyzing the succinimide units in mild alkaline medium to obtain the magnetic poly(aspartic acid) hydrogel. The surface modification in each step was confirmed by DRIFTS, TEM and zeta potential measurements. The hydrodynamic diameter of the nanosystems decreases as the pH value decreases. The nanosystems showed high colloidal stability in water and no cytotoxicity was detected, which make these nanosystems suitable for biomedical applications., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This study evaluated the effects of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) mediated by Photodithazine® (PDZ) and LED light on the virulence factors of fluconazole-susceptible (CaS) and fluconazole-resistant (CaR) Candida albicans. Standardized suspensions of strains were prepared (10 7 ), and after 48 h of biofilm formation, these strains were incubated with PDZ (100 mg/L) for 20 min and exposed to LED light (660 nm, 37.5 J/cm 2 ). Additional samples were treated with PDZ or light only, and the control consisted of biofilms that received no treatment. After aPDT, the cells were recovered and the virulence factors were evaluated. To analyze the capacity of adhesion, cells were recovered after aPDT and submitted to the adhesion process in the bottom of a 96-well plate. After this, metabolic activity tests (XTT assay) and cell viability (colony forming units per milliliter, CFU/mL) were applied. To evaluate the biofilm-forming ability after aPDT, the cells recovered were submitted to biofilm formation procedures, and the biofilm formed was evaluated by XTT, CFU/mL, and total biomass (crystal violet) tests. Lastly, the capacity for synthesizing protease and phospholipase enzymes after aPDT was evaluated by fluorimetric tests. Data were analyzed by two- or three-way ANOVA tests (p ≤ 0.05). It was verified that aPDT reduced the viability of both strains, fluconazole-susceptible and fluconazole-resistant C. albicans. It was also observed that the CaR strain had lower susceptibility to the aPDT when compared with the CaS strain. However, regarding the virulence factors evaluated, it was demonstrated that aPDT did not alter the adherence and biofilm formation ability and enzymatic production.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) mediated by Photodithazine ® (PDZ) formulated in hydrogel, in the inactivation of mono and duo-species biofilms of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata and Candida tropicalis. Standardized suspensions of each strain were prepared and after biofilm formation, mono-species were treated with 150 and 175mg/L of PDZ for 20min (pre-irradiation time), and exposed to LED light at a dose of 37.5J/cm 2 (660nm). The duo-species biofilms (C. albicans+C. glabrata and C. albicans+C. tropicalis) were treated with 150mg/L of PDZ and light. Additional samples were treated with PDZ or light only, and the control did not receive any treatment. Next, microbiological evaluation was performed by spreading the cells on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and CHROMagar Candida for colony forming units (CFU/mL). Moreover, the total biomass of biofilm was verified using the crystal violet staining assay (CV). The data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc (α=0.05). The use of PDZ 150mg/L promoted a reduction of 1.0, 1.2, 1.5 log 10 in the viability of C. glabrata, C. albicans and C. tropicalis, respectively. The same concentration reduced in 1.0 log 10 the viability of each species grown as duo-species biofilms. The crystal violet assay showed that the use of 150mg/L reduced 24.4%, 39.2% and 43.7% of the total biomass of C. albicans, C. tropicalis and C. glabrata, respectively. aPDT did not reduce the total biomass to the duo-species biofilms. Thus, PDZ-mediated aPDT was more effective in the inactivation of mono-species biofilms of Candida spp. compared with duo-species biofilm., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Numerous medications are known to be associated with the development of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). One such medication group is calcium channel blockers (CCB)., Objective: To critically examine the literature regarding the involvement of CCB in manifestation of LUTS in humans., Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed, SciELO, Scopus, and OpenGrey databases to find all potentially relevant research studies before August 2016., Results: Five studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Three out of five studies stated that CCB were involved in either precipitation or exacerbation of LUTS. As for the remaining two studies, one study found out that only the monotherapy of CCB was associated with increased prevalence of nocturia and voiding symptoms in young females, whereas the other study reported an inverse association of CCB with LUTS. The methodological quality of studies was considered high for four studies and low for one study., Conclusion: Healthcare providers should make efforts for an earlier identification of the individuals at risk of LUTS prior to the commencement of CCB therapy. Moreover, patients should be counselled to notify their healthcare provider if they notice urinary symptoms after the initiation of CCB.

This study evaluated the potential of curcumin-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (API) on multispecies biofilms of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Streptococcus mutans of different ages. Acrylic samples (n = 480) were made with standardized rough surfaces and incubated with bacteria and yeast for 24 or 48 h. API was performed with curcumin (80, 100, 120 μM) and LED light. Additional acrylic samples were treated with curcumin or LED light only. Positive control samples received neither light nor curcumin. After API, colony counts were quantified (CFU/mL), cell metabolism was determined by means of XTT assay, and the total biofilm biomass was evaluated using Crystal Violet (CV) staining assay and images were obtained by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The data were analyzed by nonparametric two-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests (α < 0.05). For 24-h biofilm, API resulted in statistically significant difference (ρ < 0.001) of viability of C. albicans compared with control (P-L-) for all Cur concentrations. For 48-h biofilm, API resulted in statistically significant difference (ρ < 0.001) compared with control only when Cur at 120 μM was used. API promoted statistically significant difference (ρ ≤ 0.001) in the viability of S. mutans and C. glabrata for all Cur concentrations in the two biofilm ages. In addition, API produced a statistically significant difference (ρ < 0.001) of metabolic activity and of total biomass (ρ < 0.001) of multispecies biofilms compared with control for all Cur concentrations. It can be concluded that both 24- and 48-h biofilms were susceptible to API mediated by Cur; however, 24-h biofilm was more sensitive than the 48-h biofilm.

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of immersion and brushing with different cleansing agents in reducing the viability of multispecies biofilm on acrylic resins., Methods: Lucitone 550 (L) and Tokuyama Rebase Fast II (T) specimens (10 x 2 mm) were prepared, sterilized, and inoculated with a suspension of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Streptococcus mutans. Specimens were incubated for 48 hours at 37 degrees C for biofilm formation. Then, they were divided into groups (n = 12) and subjected to brushing or immersion for 10 seconds in distilled water (W), 0.2% peracetic acid-Sterilife (Ac), 1% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX), 1:1 water/dentifrice solution (D), 1% sodiumhypochlorite (NaOCl), and sodium perborate/Corega Tabs (Pb). Viable microorganisms were evaluated by the XTT assay and colony counts (cfu/mL). Data were performed by ANOVA and Tukey test with 5% significance level., Results: The multispecies biofilm on L and T were killed by brushing or immersion in Ac, CHX, and NaOCl for only 10 seconds.

This study assessed the cytotoxicity of antimicrobial Photodynamic Inactivation (aPDI), mediated by curcumin, using human keratinocytes co-cultured with Candida albicans. Cells and microorganisms were grown separately for 24 hours and then kept in contact for an additional 24 hours. After this period, aPDI was applied. The conditions tested were: P+L+ (experimental group aPDI); P-L+ (light emitting diode [LED] group); P+L- (curcumin group); and P-L- (cells in co-culture without curcumin nor LED). In addition, keratinocytes and C. albicans were grown separately, were not placed in the co-culture and did not receive aPDI (control group). Cell proliferation was assessed using Alamar Blue, MTT, XTT and CFU tests. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to the survival percentages of cells compared to the control group (considered as 100% viability), complemented by multiple comparisons using Tukey's test. A 5% significance level was adopted. The results of this study showed no interference in the metabolism of the cells in co-culture, since no differences were observed between the control group (cultured cells by themselves) and the P-L- group (co-culture cells without aPDI). The aPDI group reached the highest reduction (p = 0.009), which was equivalent to 1.7 log10 when compared to the control group. The P+L-, P-L+, P-L- and control groups were not statistically different (ρ > 0.05). aPDI inhibited the growth of keratinocytes and C. albicans in all tests, so the therapy was considered slightly (inhibition between 25 and 50% compared to the control group) to moderately (inhibition between 50 and 75% compared to the control group) cytotoxic.

In this investigation, the effectiveness of successive applications of antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (API) mediated by Photodithazine(®) (PDZ) and LED light was evaluated against a multispecies biofilm formed by Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Streptococcus mutans on denture base acrylic resin. Standard cell suspensions (bacteria and yeast) were inoculated on acrylic resin samples, and the biofilm was grown for 48 h (37 °C/75 rpm). API was performed by the administration of PDZ (175 and 200 mg/L) and exposure to 37.5 J/cm(2) of LED light (660 nm). Additional samples were treated with PDZ or LED light only. Untreated control samples were not submitted to light or PDZ. The conditions described were applied once or in three consecutive applications for all groups. Cell viability was determined by colony counts (CFU/mL), metabolic activity, total biomass, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were analyzed by a nonparametric two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 0.05). The results obtained demonstrated a significant effect (p < 0.05) of number of applications and treatment groups for CFU/mL, and S. mutans showed the highest susceptibility to API. The metabolic activity of the multispecies biofilm was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) after API for both numbers of applications, which were also significantly different (p < 0.05) between them. The total biomass of the biofilm was significantly different (p < 0.05) only between groups submitted to one and three API applications. CLSM showed a visual increase of dead cells after API. API-mediated PDZ was effective in reducing the cell viability of multispecies biofilm. Three consecutive applications of API were more effective for reducing the cell viability and the total biomass of multispecies biofilm.

Purpose: The objective of this article is to describe a method to construct an intraoral acrylic device that permits a reline material to be added to the inner surface of the palatal plate., Materials and Methods: Fifteen 60-day-old adult female rats (Rattus Norvegicus Albinus Wistar), weighing 150 to 250 g were used for this study and allocated to three groups (n = 5): G1, animals wearing a heat-polymerized acrylic resin palatal plate (Lucitone 550) for 14 days; G2, animals wearing a heat-polymerized acrylic resin palatal plate (Lucitone 550) relined with Tokuyama Rebase II for 14 days; and G3, animals maintained under the same conditions as the experimental groups, without wearing palatal plates for 14 days. The manipulation of the animals followed the guidelines of the Brazilian College of Animal Experimentation, under the approval of the animal ethics committee of the State University of Ponta Grossa. The palatal plates covered the whole palate, were fixed in the molar region with light-cured resin, and were kept there for 14 days. The animals received a paste diet and water ad libitum. Before and after the trial period, the rats were weighed individually on a precision scale. Statistical analysis was performed using a two-way analysis of variance (α = 0.05) test for comparison of the animals' weight (g) at time 0 and after 14 days of using the palatal plate., Results: No statistical differences were observed regarding the weight of the animals among the experimental groups in the study., Conclusions: The individual master impressions, the molar teeth coverage, and the method of cementation with nonadhesive composite resin provided good stability for the palatal plate showed in this study, not disturbing the eating habits and nutrition of the animals. This model seems reproducible, offering adequate histopathological evaluation. Differences in tissue morphology exist between the animals that used the palatal plate and the animals that did not use this device. Use of these palatal plates could clarify how prostheses bring changes in the palatal mucosa of users., (© 2014 by the American College of Prosthodontists.)

Purpose: To investigate the cumulative effects of brushing (B) or immersion (I), using different cleansing agents, on the surface roughness, hardness and color stability of a heat-polymerized denture resin, Lucitone 550 (L), and a hard chairside reline resin, Tokuyama Rebase Fast II (T)., Methods: A total of 316 specimens (10 x 2 mm) were fabricated. The specimens (n = 9) were divided into brushing or immersion groups according to the following agents: dentifrice/distilled water (D), 1% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Corega Tabs (Pb), 1% chlorhexidine gluconate (Chx), and 0.2% peracetic acid (Ac). Brushing and immersion were tested independently. Assays were performed after 1, 3, 21, 45 and 90 brushing cycles or immersion of 10 seconds each. Data were evaluated statistically by repeated measures ANOVA. Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) post-hoc test was used to determine differences between means (α = 0.05)., Results: For L there was no statistically significant difference in roughness, except a significant decrease in roughness by brushing with D. T showed a significant effect on the roughness after 90 immersions with Ac. Hardness values decreased for L when specimens were immersed or brushed in NaOCl and Pb. The hardness of T decreased with increases in the repetitions (immersion or brushing), regardless of the cleaning method. Values of color stability for L resin showed significant color change after brushing with and immersion in Ac and Pb. Brushing with D exhibited a higher incidence of color change. For T there were no significant differences between cleaning agents and repetitions in immersion. A color change was noted after three brushings with the Ac, Chx, and D. Brushing with dentifrice decreased roughness of L. Immersion in or brushing with NaOCl and Pb decreased the hardness of L. For T, hardness decreased with increases in immersions or brushing. Color changes after the immersion in or brushing with cleaning agents were clinically acceptable according to National Bureau of Standards parameters for both resins.

Objective: To evaluate the expression of phospholipase (PL) and secreted aspartyl proteinase (SAP) by Candida glabrata and C tropicalis obtained from the denture biofilms of healthy participants (16 isolates), patients with oral candidiasis with diabetes (10 isolates), and patients with oral candidiasis without diabetes (25 isolates)., Study Design: After incubation, the supernatants and pellets of the isolates were used for the enzymatic assays and quantification of colony-forming units (CFU), respectively. Colorimetric tests were used with phosphatidylcholine as a substrate for PL and azocasein as a substrate for SAP, and the absorbances of the samples were measured. Enzymatic rates were calculated, and values were normalized by CFU. Results were analyzed with factorial analyses of variance (α = .05)., Results: C tropicalis and C glabrata were proteolytic and phospholipolytic. The clinical sources of isolates had no significant effect on the enzymatic activities (P > .05). C tropicalis had significantly higher enzymatic activity for both PL and SAP (P < .001) than did C glabrata., Conclusions: C tropicalis isolates produced significantly higher amounts of both enzymes than did the C glabrata isolates., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The aim of this clinical study was to determine the efficacy of Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) against denture stomatitis (DS)., Study Design: Fifty patients with DS were randomly assigned into 3 groups to receive 2% miconazole, placebo, or 2% U tomentosa gel. DS level was recorded immediately, after 1 week of treatment, and 1 week after treatment. The clinical effectiveness of each treatment was measured using Newton's criteria. Mycologic samples from palatal mucosa and prosthesis were obtained to determinate colony forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) and fungal identification at each evaluation period., Results: Candida species were identified with HiCrome Candida and API 20C AUX biochemical test. DS severity decreased in all groups (P < .05). A significant reduction in number of CFU/mL after 1 week (P < .05) was observed for all groups and remained after 14 days (P > .05). C albicans was the most prevalent microorganism before treatment, followed by C tropicalis, C glabrata, and C krusei, regardless of the group and time evaluated. U tomentosa gel had the same effect as 2% miconazole gel., Conclusions: U tomentosa gel is an effective topical adjuvant treatment for denture stomatitis., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To assess the histopathological changes of rat palatal mucosa exposed to soft reline materials., Methods: Forty-five adult female Wistar rats with controlled living conditions and fed ad libitum were employed. Palatal appliances of heat-polymerized acrylic resin Lucitone 550 were manufactured and worn by forty animals during 14 days. Five animals did not use the appliances (G1) and were used to control the appliance influence. One experimental group (n = 10) used the appliances without any relining material (G2) to control the material effect. Three experimental groups (n = 10) received the following soft reline materials below appliances: Dentusoft (G3), Dentuflex (G4), and Trusoft (G5). Appliances from half of each experimental group(n = 5) was immersed in water bath at 55°C for 10 min before use. Animals were slaughtered and the palates were fixed in 10% buffered formalin. Hematoxylin and eosin stained sections of 5 µm were analyzed by computerized planimetry. Cellular compartment, keratin and total epithelial thickness, and basement membrane length were measured to histopathological description.Analysis of variance and Tukey post-hoc test were used to data examination(α = 0.05)., Results: For heat-treatment groups, G4 showed less elongated ridges at the basal layer interface (p = 0.037) than G2. When comparing the conditions with and without heat-treatment, only G2 showed a significant decrease in the cellular compartment, keratin layer and total epithelium thickness (p<0.05)., Conclusion: The post-polymerization for Lucitone 550 was an effective method to reduce the changes in the rat palatal mucosa. The soft reline materials tested did not cause significant histopathological changes in the rat palatal mucosa.

The secretion of hydrolytic enzymes is a fundamental virulence factor of Candida albicans to develop disease. The objective of this study was to characterise the virulence of 148 clinical isolates of C. albicans from oral candidiasis by assessing the expression of phospholipase (PL) and secreted aspartyl proteinase (SAP). Isolates were obtained from healthy subjects (HS) and diabetics (DOC) and non-diabetics with oral candidiasis (NDOC). An aliquot (5 μl) of each cell suspension was inoculated on PL and SAP agar plates and incubated. Enzymes secretion was detected by the formation of an opaque halo around the colonies and enzymatic activity (PZ) was determined by the ratio between colony diameter and colony diameter plus the halo zone. Statistical comparisons were made by a one-way anova followed by Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05). The clinical sources of C. albicans had significant effect (P < 0.001) on the PZ values of both enzymes. For PL, clinical isolates from NDOC and DOC had highest enzymatic activity than those from HS (P < 0.05), with no significant differences between them (P = 0.506). For SAP, C. albicans from NDOC showed the lower enzymatic activity (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between isolates from HS and DOC (P = 0.7051). C. albicans isolates from NDOC and DOC patients showed an increased production of PL., (© 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Purpose: The aim of this in vivo animal study was to investigate changes in the surface roughness of soft liners over time., Materials and Methods: Forty adult Wistar rats (Rattus norvergicus albinus) were fitted with acrylic custom-made palatal plates relined by dynamic impressions and tested with the following soft liners: Dentuflex (DF), Trusoft (TS), Dentusoft (DS), and Ufi Gel P (UG). Half of the animals for each tested material had the plates fitted during the material reline procedure. Their surface roughness was read immediately (IRa group, n = 5). The other half used the palatal plates for 14 days before roughness readings were performed (FRa group, n = 5). The surface roughness (Ra) of the inner surface from the relined dentures was recorded using a Surftest SJ-401 with eight readings per specimen, and mean values were obtained. Data (μm) were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05)., Results: IRa means (2.92 ± 0.87 μm) and FRa means (3.35 ± 0.65 μm) were significantly different (p = 0.016). UG showed a lower (p = 0.01) Ra mean (2.1 ± 0.52 μm) than DF (3.94 ± 0.81 μm), TS (4.12 ± 0.64 μm), and DS (3.27 ± 0.64 μm)., Conclusions: Ufi Gel P showed the smoothest surface among the materials evaluated. The period of use resulted in changes in the surface roughness of the materials tested., (© 2013 by the American College of Prosthodontists.)

This study evaluated the effect of experimental coatings, containing zwitterion or hydrophilic monomers, on the adherence of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Streptococcus mutans to an acrylic resin. Acrylic samples (smooth or rough surfaces) were left untreated (control) or coated with one of the following experimental coatings: 3-hydroxypropylmethacrylate (HP) or sulfobetaine methacrylate (S), at concentrations of 25, 30, or 35%. Half of the specimens were coated with saliva. The adhesion test was performed by incubating specimens in C. albicans, C. glabrata, and S. mutans suspensions at 37°C for 90 min. The number of adhered microorganisms was determined by metabolic activity (XTT) and by cell viability (CFU). All coated specimens exhibited lower absorbance and CFU values compared to control specimens. Saliva and roughness did not promote microorganism adherence. An XPS analysis confirmed the modification in the chemical composition of the coatings in the experimental samples. These experimental coatings significantly reduced the adherence of C. albicans, C. glabrata and S. mutans to acrylic resin.

Objective: This study investigated the susceptibility of 198 clinical isolates of Candida species against caspofungin, amphotericin B, itraconazole, and fluconazole., Study Design: Suspensions of the microorganisms were spread on Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) agar plates. Etest strips were placed on the plates, and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was read after incubation (48 h at 37 °C). Data were analyzed by a factorial analysis of variance and a 2 × 2 post hoc test (α = .05)., Results: C glabrata showed the highest MIC values (P < .001) against caspofungin, itraconazole, and fluconazole. For amphotericin B, the MIC values of C tropicalis and C glabrata (P = .0521) were higher than those of C albicans (P < .001). Itraconazole was the least effective antifungal; 93.3% of the C glabrata isolates, 3.3% of the C albicans, and 1.3% of the C tropicalis were resistant. All microorganisms were susceptible to caspofungin and amphotericin B., Conclusions: Caspofungin and amphotericin B should be recommended as an effective alternative for the management of oral Candida infections when treatment with topical or other systemic drugs has definitely failed., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can grow as structured biofilm in different surfaces, including oral mucosa and denture surfaces. Such biofilms can be released into the oral fluids and aspirated, causing systemic infections such as aspiration pneumonia. This study evaluated the efficacy of two disinfectant solutions and microwave irradiation in disinfecting acrylic specimens contaminated with MRSA biofilm. Thirty-six acrylic specimens were made, sterilized and contaminated with MRSA (107 cfu/mL). After incubation (37 °C/48 h), the specimens were divided into 4 groups: not disinfected (positive control); soaking in 1% sodium hypochlorite for 10 min; soaking in 2% chlorhexidine gluconate for 10 min; and irradiating by microwave for 3 min at 650 W. The viability of cells was evaluated by XTT reduction method. All specimens from the positive control group showed biofilm formation after 48 h incubation. The mean absorbance value of the control specimens was 1.58 (OD at 492 nm). No evidence of biofilm formation was observed on specimens after the disinfection methods. Disinfection by soaking in 1% sodium hypochlorite and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate and irradiating by microwaves resulted in 100% reduction of MRSA biofilm metabolism. The use of chemical solutions and microwave irradiation was shown to be effective for eradicating mature MRSA biofilms on acrylic resin specimens.

New drug delivery systems, such as nanoemulsions (NE), have been developed to allow the use of hydrophobic drugs on the antimicrobial photodynamic therapy. This study evaluated the photodynamic potential of aluminum-chloride-phthalocyanine (ClAlPc) entrapped in cationic and anionic NE to inactivate Candida albicans planktonic cultures and biofilm compared with free ClAlPc. Fungal suspensions were treated with different delivery systems containing ClAlPc and light emitting diode. For planktonic suspensions, colonies were counted and cell metabolism was evaluated by XTT assay. Flow cytometry evaluated cell membrane damage. For biofilms, the metabolic activity was evaluated by XTT and ClAlPc distribution through biofilms was analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Fungal viability was dependent on the delivery system, superficial charge and light dose. Free ClAlPc caused photokilling of the yeast when combined with 100 J cm(-2). Cationic NE-ClAlPc reduced significantly both colony counts and cell metabolism (P < 0.05). In addition, cationic NE-ClAlPc and free ClAlPc caused significant damage to the cell membrane (P < 0.05). For the biofilms, cationic NE-ClAlPc reduced cell metabolism by 70%. Anionic NE-ClAlPc did not present antifungal activity. CLSM showed different accumulation on biofilms between the delivery systems. Although NE system showed a lower activity for planktonic culture, cationic NE-ClAlPc showed better results for Candida biofilms., (© 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Photochemistry and Photobiology © 2012 The American Society of Photobiology.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of denture microwave disinfection and antifungal therapy on treatment of denture stomatitis., Study Design: Sixty denture wearers with denture stomatitis (3 groups; n = 20 each), were treated with nystatin or denture microwave disinfection (1 or 3 times/wk) for 14 days. Mycologic samples from palates and dentures were quantified and identified with the use of Chromagar, and clinical photographs of palates were taken. Microbiologic and clinical data were analyzed with the use of a series of statistical tests (α = .05)., Results: Both treatments similarly reduced clinical signs of denture stomatitis and growth on palates and dentures at days 14 and 30 (P > .05). At sequential appointments, the predominant species (P < .01) isolated was C. albicans (range 98%-53%), followed by C. glabrata (range 22%-12%) and C. tropicalis (range 25%-7%)., Conclusions: Microwave disinfection, at once per week for 2 treatments, was as effective as topical antifungal therapy for treating denture stomatitis., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: This investigation evaluated the knowledge of dental caries and periodontal disease among removable partial denture (RPD) wearers., Method: A total of 127 partially dentate patients participated in this observational study. A structured questionnaire, which included eight questions referring to knowledge about aetiology and prevention of dental caries and periodontal disease, was developed in the local language (Portuguese) and used to collect the data of all the partial denture wearers. A descriptive analysis of data was performed by means of drafting tables., Results: The results demonstrated that 68.5% of patients interviewed had previously received information about oral health care. With regard to bacterial plaque, it was observed that only 34.6% reported having knowledge of this. Whereas, in relation to caries, 76.4% of the interviewees replied that they knew the meaning of this. Nevertheless, 28.3% referred to caries as a whole in the teeth, 16.5% as bad teeth and 9.4% bacteria/creatures on the teeth. Only 17.3% of the partially edentulous patients evaluated were shown to know what disease of the gingiva was., Conclusion: By means of the methodology applied, it could be concluded that the patients who wore RPDs presented deficient knowledge with regard to the prevention, aetiology and development of dental caries and periodontal disease., (© 2011 The Gerodontology Society and John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Objective: To evaluate the weight loss and the surface roughness of acrylic resins after simulated brushing tests., Material and Methods: Ten specimens of each material (Tokuyama Rebase II-TR, New Truliner-NT, Ufi Gel Hard-UH and Lucitone 550-L) were made. The wear loss (mg) by weight and the surface roughness (Ra μm) of each specimen was determined before and after brushing. The specimens were placed on the brushing machine and a total of 20,000 brushing cycles was performed. The results of weight loss and roughness values were submitted to the anova followed by the Tukey's test (p = 0.05)., Results: The mean weight loss of material L was statistically higher (p < 0.001) than that of the relines TR, UH and NT. No significant differences were found among the roughness values of resins TR, UH and L (p > 0.05). Only for L, toothbrushing increased the surface roughness. After toothbrushing, there was no significant difference between the roughness values of materials L and NT. The highest mean weight loss during the simulated toothbrushing tests was observed for L. Before the toothbrushing tests, the NT exhibited the highest mean roughness., Conclusion: Brushing resulted in increase in roughness only for resin L., (© 2011 The Gerodontology Society and John Wiley & Sons A/S.)