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Miniscrews are devices that allow for absolute skeletal anchorage. However, their use has a higher failure rate (10-30%) than dental implants (10%). To overcome these flaws, chemical and/or mechanical treatment of the surface of miniscrews has been suggested. There is no consensus in the current literature about which of these methods is the gold standard; thus, our objective was to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on surface treatments of miniscrews. The review protocol was registered (PROSPERO CRD42023408011) and is in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. A bibliographic search was carried out on PubMed via MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science. The initial search of the databases yielded 1684 results, with 98 studies included in the review, with one article originating from the search in the bibliographic references of the included studies. The results of this systematic review show that the protocols of miniscrew surface treatments, such as acid-etching; sandblasting, large-grit and acid-etching; photofunctionalization with ultraviolet light; and photobiomodulation, can increase stability and the success of orthodontic treatment. The meta-analysis revealed that the treatment with the highest removal torque is SLA, followed by acid-etching. On the other hand, techniques such as oxidative anodization, anodization with pre-calcification and heat treatment, as well as deposition of chemical compounds, require further investigation to confirm their effectiveness.

Sweet almond oil is a raw material with high-added value used in different products. Then, the aim of this study is to evaluate the quality and purity of 10 body oils based on sweet almond oils currently available in the Brazilian market. Fatty acid composition and triacylglycerol (TAG) profile were determined by gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and atmospheric solids analysis probe mass spectrometry (ASAP-MS), respectively. The authenticity of samples was assessed using an analytical curve equation. Soybean oil was chosen as the adulterant because it is the cheapest vegetable oil commercialized in Brazil. Hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) in conjunction with ASAP-MS classified product samples according to the type of vegetable oil (soybean and sweet almond oils). The addition of soybean oil (8.79% to 99.70%) was confirmed in samples. However, only two samples stated in their label the presence of soybean oil as an ingredient. These findings highlight the need for better oversight by regulatory bodies to ensure that consumers acquire high quality and authentic products based on equally high quality and purity of sweet almond oils., (© 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The osteolytic activity of odontogenic cysts and tumors is directly associated with their growth and aggressiveness. The influence of proteins expressed by epithelial and mesenchymal cells on this biological event differs between indolent cystic lesions, aggressive cystic lesions, and odontogenic tumors. The objective of this study was to compare the immunohistochemical expression of factors that stimulate (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand - RANKL, cathepsin K - CatK and matrix metallopeptidase 8 - MMP-8) and inhibit (osteoprotegerin - OPG) osteoclastogenesis between dentigerous cyst (DC), glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC), odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), and ameloblastoma (AB). Paraffin-embedded sections of nine DCs, nine GOCs, 20 OKCs, 21 ABs, and four dental follicles (DFs) were subjected to immunohistochemistry. Immunoreactivity was analyzed semiquantitatively and quantitatively in epithelium and connective tissue, respectively. The proteins were immunoexpressed in epithelial and mesenchymal cells of all lesions studied. The expression of RANKL and CatK was higher in OKC, AB, and GOC (p<0.005). Higher expression of OPG was found in DF and DC compared to the other markers (p<0.005). MMP-8 expression was high in GOC and OKC. This study demonstrated the differential expression of factors that inhibit and stimulate bone resorption during the development of DC, GOC, OKC, and AB. Higher expression of RANKL and CatK was observed in more aggressive lesions. OPG appears to be one of the molecules responsible for the slower growth of DC.

Objectives: Contact tracing and quarantine are common measures used in the management of infectious disease outbreaks. However, few studies have measured their impact on the control of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of those measures on reducing transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in a community setting., Study Design: The study design is a retrospective cohort study., Methods: A retrospective cohort study of COVID-19 cases notified in Eastern Porto from March 1st to April 30th, 2020 was performed. Intervention and control cohorts were defined based on whether cases were subjected to contact tracing and quarantine measures before the laboratory confirmation of disease. The number of secondary cases per index case and the proportion of cases with subsequent secondary cases were the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included the time from symptom onset to specimen collection and the number of close contacts. The analysis was stratified according to whether national lockdown measures had already been implemented., Results: The intervention and control cohorts comprised 98 and 453 cases, respectively. No differences were observed concerning primary outcomes. The intervention group had a shorter time between symptom onset and specimen collection (median: 3 days, interquartile range [IQR]: 1-6, vs. median: 5 days, IQR: 2-7, P-value = 0.004) and fewer close contacts (median: 0, IQR: 0-2, vs. median: 2, IQR: 1-4, P-value<0.001). The stratified analysis returned similar results., Conclusion: Local public health measures were effective in reducing the time between symptom onset and laboratory diagnosis and the number of close contacts per case. No effect was apparent on secondary case figures, suggesting that further measures may be required., (Copyright © 2020 The Royal Society for Public Health. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To identify the association between perception of body image and oral health in school bullying among adolescents of an urban locality in Brazil., Methods: A self-questionnaire was applied on 381 students from public school between 12 and 15 years old. The variables studied were sex, age, schooling, school bullying events, and perception about their oral health and body image. The prevalence of bullying was 29.6%. The multivariate analysis showed that those who indicated that they were criticized due to the condition of their teeth had 4.37 more chance of victimization (oral 4371 CI 2325-8218). Those who felt that oral health had little effect on their relationship with other people had 2.2 times more chance to suffer from bullying (oral 2204 CI 1031-4708) than those who did not. Among adolescents who were not satisfied with their body image, 46.7% had more chance to be a victim of bullying (oral 2467 CI 1373-4431)., Conclusion: A high prevalence of students affected by bullying was observed. It was possible to observe an association between bullying and dissatisfaction with oral health and body image. It is important to implement and evaluate public policies on oral health, expanding access to and improving these public services offered to the population., (© 2019 Special Care Dentistry Association and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Flies of the family Calliphoridae play a variety of ecological roles. They carry various pathogens and cause myiasis in humans and livestock, but they are useful to forensic entomology and in larval therapy. Mesembrinellidae flies, formerly classified in the family Calliphoridae, are good bioindicators of human interference in natural environments. In this study, we carried out an inventory of the Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae at four collecting sites within the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro. Eight traps were set, four in the arboretum (sites A and B), where the public is allowed to visit, and four at an Atlantic Forest fragment (sites C and D), open only to researchers. From July 2014 to June 2015, a total of 35,890 calliphorid flies were captured in 10 species and 145 Mesembrinellidea in 3. The greatest number of flies was found at site A and diversity was higher at site C. Chrysomya megacephala (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) was the most prevalent species, being present at all sites. Mesembrinella bellardiana (Aldrich) (Diptera: Mesembrinellidae), Laneella nigripes (Guimarães) (Diptera: Mesembrinellidae), and Huascaromusca purpurata (Aldrich) (Diptera: Mesembrinellidae) were present at sites C and D, which indicates a preservation of the area because they are asynanthropic species. There were significant differences between sites A and D and sites B and D.

Forensic entomology is a complementary tool for penal procedures, mainly on estimating postmortem interval. Study of cadaveric fauna in various environments is primary as source of information to support this science. This study collected information about the fauna of Calliphoridae associated to carcasses of Rattus rattus in the Tijuca National Park, RJ. Four collections were conducted, one for each season of 2015, exposing six carcasses at georeferenced points in each collection. The carcasses were placed 550 m from the boarder and equidistant by 100 m. Five decomposition stages were identified, and 10,559 individuals of Calliphoridae belonging to 10 species were collected. The most abundant species were Hemilucilia semidiaphana (Rondani) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). L. eximia was the most abundant species during the Swelling and Black Putrefaction stages, succeeded in the next stages by two species of the genera Hemilucilia. H. semidiaphana was the dominant species in the last two stages, followed by Hemilucilia segmentaria (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). The genus Mesembrinella (Diptera: Calliphoridae) occurred mainly during the Black putrefaction stage. Mesembrinella bellardiana (Aldrich) was more abundant, with higher occurrence during the Black putrefaction and Dry decay stages. Mesembrinella peregrina (Aldrich) occurred in the two last stages with low abundance. Huascaromusca aeneiventris (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) occurred during all the observed stages, mainly during the Butyric fermentation stage. Huascaromusca purpurata (Aldrich) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) occurred only during the Dry decay stage and in low abundance. A succession pattern in the carcasses colonization was observed, providing relevant information for the resolution of criminal investigations in this environment.

Neural crest (NC) specification comprises an early phase, initiating immature NC progenitors formation at neural plate stage, and a later phase at neural fold stage, resulting in a functional premigratory NC that is able to delaminate and migrate. We found that the NC gene regulatory network triggers upregulation of pfkfb4 (6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 4) during this late specification phase. As shown in previous studies, PFKFB4 controls AKT signaling in gastrulas and glycolysis rate in adult cells. Here, we focus on PFKFB4 function in NC during and after neurulation, using time-controlled or hypomorph depletions in vivo We find that PFKFB4 is essential both for specification of functional premigratory NC and for its migration. PFKFB4-depleted embryos fail to activate n-cadherin and late NC specifiers, and exhibit severe migration defects resulting in craniofacial defects. AKT signaling mediates PFKFB4 function in NC late specification, whereas both AKT signaling and glycolysis regulate migration. These findings highlight novel and essential roles of PFKFB4 activity in later stages of NC development that are wired into the NC gene regulatory network., Competing Interests: Competing interestsThe authors declare no competing or financial interests., (© 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.)

Each biome has its own fauna and intrinsic local conditions that determine the succession patterns of insects on carcasses. For this reason, regional studies are very important to forensics. This study deals with the flies that visit carcasses of Rattus rattus (L., 1758) in the Atlantic Forest remnant of Floresta da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We compare the diversity and relative abundance of fly families and species throughout the four seasons of the year and test for correlations between certain environmental variables and fly richness. In each of the four seasons, we exposed the carcasses of three rats. The carcasses were put in traps that were installed on the ground, separated by 100 m. The flies were collected from the carcasses on a daily basis, and were taken to the laboratory and kept in a climate chamber (28 °C day and 26 °C night). A total of 5,537 flies were captured, identified into 12 families: Calliphoridae (4,884 specimens), followed by Sarcophagidae, Micropezidae, Fannidae, Muscidae, Phoridae, and Neridae. Canonical correspondence and redundancy analyses of the environmental variables indicated no relationship between the seasons and fly abundance. Carcass decomposition lasted longer in the winter (12 d) than in the summer (8 d). The Margalef richness index indicated higher richness in the spring and winter, and lower richness in the summer. The Shannon-Wiener index and Simpson dominance indicated greater diversity in the spring. Diptera colonized all stages of decomposition. The families Calliphoridae and Sarcophagidae were more prevalent during the Fermentation stage. Our data have important implications for forensic entomology., (© The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

An extracellular collagenolytic serine protease was purified from Aspergillus sp., isolated from the Caatinga biome in northeast Brazil by a two-step chromatographic procedure, using an anion-exchanger and gel filtration. The enzyme was produced by submerged fermentation of feather residue as a substrate. The purified collagenase showed a 2.09-fold increase in specific activity and 22.85% yield. The enzyme was a monomeric protein with a molecular mass of 28.7 kDa, estimated by an SDS-PAGE and AKTA system. The optimum temperature and pH for enzyme activity were around 40°C and pH 8.0, respectively. The enzyme was strongly inhibited by phenyl-methylsulfonyl fluoride, a serine protease inhibitor, and was thermostable until 65°C for 1 h. We then evaluated the enzyme's potential for degradation of Type I and Type V collagens for producing peptides with antifungal activity. Our results revealed that the cleavage of Type V collagen yielded more effective peptides than Type I, inhibiting growth of Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus japonicus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Both groups of peptides (Type I and Type V) were identified by SDS-PAGE. To conclude, the thermostable collagenase we purified in this study has various potentially useful applications in the fields of biochemistry, biotechnology and biomedical sciences., (Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

Background: Glypican-3 is a cell surface proteoglycan that is found in embrionary tissues, and there are no studies investigating this protein in odontogenic tumor. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate glypican-3 in a series of aggressive and non-aggressive odontogenic tumors., Methods: Fifty-nine cases of tumors were divided into aggressive odontogenic tumors (20 solid ameloblastomas, four unicystic ameloblastoma, 28 KOTs including five associated with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome) and non-aggressive odontogenic tumors (five adenomatoid odontogenic tumors and two calcifying cystic odontogenic tumors) and analyzed for glypican-3 using immunohistochemistry., Results: Glypican-3 was observed in seven solid ameloblastoma and eighteen keratocystic odontogenic tumors including three of the five syndromic cases, but there was no significant difference between syndromic and sporadic cases (P > 0.05; Fisher's exact Test). All cases of unicystic ameloblastoma (n = 4), adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (n = 5), and calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (n = 2) were negative., Conclusions: This provided insights into the presence of glypican-3 in odontogenic tumors. This protein distinguished aggressive from non-aggressive odontogenic tumors., (© 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Specific proteases capable of degrading native triple helical or denatured collagen have been required for many years and have a large spectrum of applications. There are few complete reports that fully uncover production, characterization and purification of fungi collagenases. In this review, authors searched through four scientific on line data bases using the following keywords (collagenolytic OR collagenase) AND (fungi OR fungus OR fungal) AND (production OR synthesis OR synthesize) AND (characterization). Scientific criteria were adopted in this review to classify found articles by score (from 0 to 10). After exclusion criteria, 21 articles were selected. None obtained the maximum of 10 points defined by the methodology, which indicates a deficiency in studies dealing simultaneously with production, characterization and purification of collagenase by fungi. Among microorganisms studied the non-pathogenic fungi Penicillium aurantiogriseum and Rhizoctonia solani stood out in volumetric and specific collagenase activity. The only article found that made sequencing of a true collagenase showed 100% homology with several metalloproteinases fungi. A clear gap in literature about collagenase production by fungi was verified, which prevents further development in the area and increases the need for further studies, particularly full characterization of fungal collagenases with high specificity to collagen., (Copyright © 2016 Sociedade Brasileira de Microbiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.)

Serum levels of IL-9 and IL-17 cytokines were evaluated in patients in the acute, chronic phases and clinical forms of human schistosomiasis and in different classifications of periportal fibrosis. No significant differences between the groups of the disease with serum levels of cytokine were found. However, this study discusses the results of some cytokines that have not fully defined roles in the pathology of human schistosomiasis. Furthermore, an examination was made of subjects in the acute phase. This is an important group that is difficult to identify in areas where the disease is endemic. More studies are being undertaken to study the role of IL-9 and IL-17 in human Schistosoma mansoni infection and their relationship with the immunopathogenesis of disease., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Xylanases activity (XY) from Aspergillus japonicus URM5620 produced by Solid-State Fermentation (SSF) of castor press cake (Ricinus communis) on different conditions of production and extraction by PEG/citrate aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) were investigated. XY production was influenced by substrate amount (5-10 g), initial moisture (15-35 %), pH (4.0-6.0) and temperature (25-35 °C), obtaining the maximum activity of 29,085 ± 1808 U g ds -1 using 5.0 g of substrate with initial moisture of 15 % at 25 °C and pH 6.0, after 120 h of fermentation. The influence of PEG molar mass (1000-8000 g mol -1 ), phase concentrations (PEG 20.0-24.0 % w/w and sodium citrate 15-20 % w/w) and pH (6.0-8.0) on partition coefficient, purification factor, yield and selectivity of XY were determinate. Enzyme partitioning into the PEG rich phase was favored by M PEG 8000 (g mol -1 ), C PEG 24 % (w/w), C C 20 % (w/w) and pH 8.0, resulting in partition coefficient of 50.78, activity yield of 268 %, 7.20-fold purification factor and selectivity of 293. A. japonicus URM5620 has a potential role in the development of a bioprocess for the XY production using low-cost media. In addition, the present study proved it is feasible to extract xylanase from SSF by adopting the one step ATPS consisting of PEG/citrate.

The pathology of schistosomiasis is associated with the formation of granulomas, and this process is associated with liver fibrosis. Studies indicate that Th1 cytokines reduce fibrosis in schistosomiasis, while Th2 cytokines play a part in the progression of fibrosis, and IL-13 has a critical role in this process. The IL-13Rα2 receptor, known as a 'receptor antagonist' binds with high affinity to IL-13, and studies have identified that this plays a part in reducing fibrosis and the size of granulomas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the function of IL-13Rα2 and cellular immune response in hepatic fibrosis. A negative correlation between IL-13Rα2 and IL-13 was found, suggesting an increase in cytokine in early fibrosis. Initially, a negative correlation between IFN-γ and IL-13 was found in patients without fibrosis, and subsequently, this correlation was found to be positive in patients with severe fibrosis, thereby highlighting a new mechanism for regulating the progress of periportal fibrosis. There was a positive correlation between the profiles of Th1 and Th2 cytokines, suggesting the presence of both responses, thus regulating the disease. The results contribute to a better understanding of the immune mechanisms that control the process of hepatic fibrogenesis in schistosomiasis in humans., (© 2016 The Foundation for the Scandinavian Journal of Immunology.)

A fibrinolytic protease from M. subtilissimus UCP 1262 was recovered and partially purified by polyethylene glycol (PEG)/sodium sulfate aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS). The simultaneous influence of PEG molar mass, PEG concentration and sulfate concentration on the enzyme recovery was first investigated using a 2(3) full factorial design, and the Response Surface Methodology used to identify the optimum conditions for enzyme extraction by ATPS. Once the best PEG molar mass for the process had been selected (6000g/mol), a two-factor central composite rotary design was applied to better evaluate the effects of the other two independent variables. The fibrinolytic enzyme was shown to preferentially partition to the bottom phase with a partition coefficient (K) ranging from 0.2 to 0.7. The best results in terms of enzyme purification were obtained with the system formed by 30.0% (w/w) PEG 6000g/mol and 13.2% (w/w) sodium sulfate, which ensured a purification factor of 10.0, K of 0.2 and activity yield of 102.0%. SDS-PAGE and fibrin zymography showed that the purified protease has a molecular mass of 97kDa and an apparent isoelectric point of 5.4. When submitted to assays with different substrates and inhibitors, it showed selectivity for succinyl-l-ala-ala-pro-l-phenylalanine-p-nitroanilide and was almost completely inhibited by phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, behaving as a chymotrypsin-like protease. At the optimum temperature of 37°C, the enzyme residual activity was 94 and 68% of the initial one after 120 and 150min of incubation, respectively. This study demonstrated that M. subtilissimus protease has potent fibrinolytic activity compared with similar enzymes produced by solid-state fermentation, therefore it may be used as an agent for the prevention and therapy of thrombosis. Furthermore, it appears to have the advantages of low cost production and simple purification., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Photobioreactor configuration, mode of operation and light intensity are known to strongly impact on cyanobacteria growth. To shed light on these issues, kinetic, bioenergetic and thermodynamic parameters of batch Arthrospira platensis cultures were estimated along the time at photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of 70μmolm(-2)s(-1) in different photobioreactors with different surface/volume ratio (S/V), namely open pond (0.25cm(-1)), shaken flask (0.48cm(-1)), horizontal photobioreactor (HoP) (1.94cm(-1)) and helicoidal photobioreactor (HeP) (3.88cm(-1)). Maximum biomass concentration and productivity remarkably increased with S/V up to 1.94cm(-1). HoP was shown to be the best-performing system throughout the whole runs, while HeP behaved better only at the start. Runs carried out in HoP increasing PPFD from 40 to 100μmolm(-2)s(-1) revealed a progressive enhancement of bioenergetics and thermodynamics likely because of favorable light distribution. HoP appeared to be a promising configuration to perform high-yield indoor cyanobacterial cultures., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Efforts to elucidate the doubtful character of the static magnetic field (SMF) influence on living cells have been made, although the topic still faces controversies because confusing reports in the scientific literature. This study intended to collect the most relevant issues separated by different topics (relating the SMF to its action on cellular systems) and analyze how the many field intensities, cell types and exposure time would affect the cell or intracellular structures. The analysis was based in the search in online databases aiming to give a general view of how the data can show conformity. It is proposed that scientists have been searching for linearity in what is actually a well characterized nonlinear system and two outputs are considered: the high sensitivity of parameters in which specific cell responses are generated and also the complexity and particularity of each cellular system. It is possible to trigger effects from a SMF, however in a stochastic way and depending on the cell system., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Population connectivity in the blue crab Callinectes sapidus was evaluated along 740 km of the Western South Atlantic coast. Blue crabs are the most exploited portunid in Brazil. Despite their economic importance, few studies report their ecology or population structure. Here we sampled four estuarine areas in southern Brazil during winter 2013 and summer 2014 in order to evaluate diversity, gene flow and structure of these populations. Nine microsatellite markers were evaluated for 213 adult crabs, with identification of seven polymorphic loci and 183 alleles. Pairwise FST values indicated low population structure ranging from -0.00023 to 0.01755. A Mantel test revealed that the geographic distance does not influence genetic (r = -0.48), and structure/migration rates confirmed this, showing that even the populations located at the opposite extremities of our covered region presented low FST and exchanged migrants. These findings show that there is a significant amount of gene flow between blue crab populations in South Brazil, likely influenced by local current dynamics that allow the transport of a high number of larvae between estuaries. Considering the elevated gene flow, the populations can be considered a single genetic stock. However, further information on population size and dynamics, as well as fishery demands and impacts at different regions, are necessary for harvest management purposes.

Background: The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the process where cells lose their epithelial features and acquire properties of typical mesenchymal cells. The dissociation of tumor cells due to changes in cell-cell adhesion is one of the key principles of tumor invasion and EMT. Thus, the knowledge of the molecular features of EMT in keratocyst odontogenic tumor (KOT) can provide useful markers to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis and perhaps contribute to an alternative therapeutic approach as it shows an aggressive clinical behavior and high recurrence rates. This study aimed to evaluate the EMT in KOT by the immunoexpression of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Snail, and Slug and comparing to radicular cysts and dental follicles., Methods: Thirty-two KOTs, 15 radicular cysts, and 08 dental follicles were used for immunohistochemistry, evaluating the extent, intensity, labeling pattern, cellular compartment in the epithelium and stroma, and the presence of inflammation., Results: E-cadherin was preserved in most cases of keratocystic odontogenic tumor. N-cadherin was increased in the tumor epithelium, a result that was positively correlated with the heterogeneous and nuclear immunoexpression of Slug in the epithelium; Slug also correlated with high Snail immunoexpression. N-cadherin was positively correlated with Slug in the stroma of keratocystic odontogenic tumors., Conclusions: The high immunoexpression of Snail and nuclear Slug in keratocystic odontogenic tumors suggests these proteins as transcription factors without necessarily participating in 'cadherin switching'. However, the knowledge of their induction of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in odontogenic tumors is still limited., (© 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The effects of the Gracilaria domingensis seaweed aqueous extract in comparison with gelatin on the physicochemical, microbial, and textural characteristics of fermented milks processed with the mixed culture SAB 440 A, composed of Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis, were investigated. The addition of G. domingensis aqueous extract did not affect pH, titratable acidity, and microbial viability of fermented milks when compared with the control (with no texture modifier) and the products with added gelatin. Fermented milk with added the seaweed aqueous extract showed firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, and viscosity index at least 10% higher than those observed for the control product (P < 0.05). At 4 h of fermentation, the fermented milks with only G. domingensis extract showed a texture comparable to that observed for products containing only gelatin. At 5 h of fermentation, firmness and consistency increased significantly (P < 0.05) in products with only seaweed extract added, a behavior not observed in products with the full amount of gelatin, probably due to the differences between the interactions of these ingredients with casein during the development of the gel network throughout the acidification of milk. The G. domingensis aqueous extract appears as a promising gelatin alternative to be used as texture modifier in fermented milks and related dairy products., (© 2016 Institute of Food Technologists®)

Background: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the risk indicators of tooth loss in adult Kiriri Indians from Brazil., Methods: A representative sample of 225 Indians (≥ 19 years of age) was assessed. Interviews using a structured written questionnaire were performed to collect data on demographics and socio-economic status, and health-related data. Probing depth, the distance between the cement-enamel junction and the free gingival margin, and decayed, missing or filled teeth were evaluated. Bivariate and logistic models were used to assess associations between tooth loss and age, sex, income, education, diabetic status, smoking habits, dental caries, severe periodontitis, plaque index and previous dental visit., Results: Eighty per cent of subjects had lost one tooth or more, and 20% had lost eight teeth or more. Mean (± standard deviation) tooth loss was 5.09 (± 5.83) teeth. After adjustment for covariates, loss of one tooth or more was associated with older age [≥ 35 years; odds ratio (OR) = 4.06, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.38-11.94, P = 0.01], severe periodontitis (OR = 3.35, 95% CI: 0.99-11.24, P = 0.05), higher dental caries (OR = 3.24, 95% CI: 1.35-7.78, P = 0.01) and previous dental visit (OR = 23.32, 95% CI: 5.75-94.63, P < 0.001)., Conclusion: Tooth loss is highly prevalent in Kiriri Indians. Older age, severe periodontitis, higher caries index and previous dental visit were associated with tooth loss. Prevention and treatment programmes, targeting high-risk groups, are required to promote the oral health of the population., (© 2015 FDI World Dental Federation.)

Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic infection prevalent in Latin American countries. Disease develops after inhalation of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis conidia followed by an improper immune activation by the host leucocytes. Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells with the unique ability to direct the adaptive immune response by the time of activation of naive T cells. This study was conducted to test whether extracts of P. brasiliensis would induce maturation of DCs. We found that DCs treated with extracts acquired an inflammatory phenotype and upon adoptive transfer conferred protection to infection. Interestingly, interleukin-10 production by CD8(+) T cells was ablated following DC transfer. Further analyses showed that lymphocytes from infected mice were high producers of interleukin-10, with CD8(+) T cells being the main source. Blockage of cross-presentation to CD8(+) T cells by modulated DCs abolished the protective effect of adoptive transfer. Collectively, our data show that adoptive transfer of P. brasiliensis-modulated DCs is an interesting approach for the control of infection in paracoccidioidomycosis., (© 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Myiasis is a disease caused by an infestation of the tissues of vertebrates by developing fly larvae. We document the first cases of human myiasis by Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann, 1830) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, analyzed the epidemiological and clinical profiles of the patients, and their risk factors associated with the occurrence of the disease. Between May 2008 to July 2013, six cases of myiasis caused by larvae of L. cuprina were reported in patients treated in the Federal Hospital of Andaraí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The six patients ranged between 13 and 72 yr old, belonged to various ethnic groups, and both sexes were represented. The affected individuals were relatively uneducated, had low income and poor hygiene habits. Infections were more common in the legs. The following factors were found to predispose individuals to myiasis: trauma, pediculosis, erysipelas, skin infections, and wounds resulting from congestive heart failure. Myiasis by L. cuprina occurred predominantly in the summer when there is abundant rainfall., (© The Authors 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between the HLA alleles at the DQA1, DQB1 and DRB1 loci, the CIITA genetic polymorphisms -168A/G and +1614G/C, and susceptibility to multiple sclerosis (MS) in a sample from Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. Furthermore, we wished to determine whether any of these associations might be more significant in women compared with men. DNA samples from 52 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients and 126 healthy controls matched for sex and age were analyzed. We identified a significant HLA-DRB1*15:01-MS association that was female-specific (Odds Ratio (OR) = 4.78; p = 0.001). Furthermore, we observed that the +1614G/C mutation in combination with the HLA-DRB1*15:01 allele increased susceptibility to MS in females (OR = 4.55; p = 0.01). Together, these findings highlight the polygenic nature of MS.

How metabolism regulators play roles during early development remains elusive. Here we show that PFKFB4 (6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 4), a glycolysis regulator, is critical for controlling dorsal ectoderm global patterning in gastrulating frog embryos via a non-glycolytic function. PFKFB4 is required for dorsal ectoderm progenitors to proceed towards more specified fates including neural and non-neural ectoderm, neural crest or placodes. This function is mediated by Akt signalling, a major pathway that integrates cell homeostasis and survival parameters. Restoring Akt signalling rescues the loss of PFKFB4 in vivo. In contrast, glycolysis is not essential for frog development at this stage. Our study reveals the existence of a PFKFB4-Akt checkpoint that links cell homeostasis to the ability of progenitor cells to undergo differentiation, and uncovers glycolysis-independent functions of PFKFB4.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the factors involved in the decision making process of women in situation of interpersonal violence perpetrated by an intimate partner in search for domestic violence support services., Methods: Qualitative, descriptive and exploratory research. Sixteen women were interviewed through individual semi-structured interviews, at a Women's Reference Center in Duque de Caxias, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Data analysis was performed using the technique of collective subject discourse was used., Results: The results showed that these women sought psychosocial support when interpersonal violence reached their limit of tolerance. The group meetings organized by the Reference Center made it possible for these women to recover their self-esteem and confidence and to increase awareness of the need to change their lives and achieve economic autonomy., Conclusions: In this scenario, by collecting data for the research, the nurses contributed to the promotion of gender equality and women's empowerment, as recommended by the Millennium Development Goals.

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions, and their risk indicators in adult Kiriri Indians from Northeast Brazil. Clinical oral examination was performed on a representative sample of 223 Indians (age ≥ 19 years). A systematic evaluation of lips, labial mucosa and sulcus, commissures, buccal mucosa and sulcus, gingiva and alveolar ridge, tongue, floor of the mouth, and soft and hard palate was performed. Bivariate analysis was conducted to assess associations between mucosal conditions and age, gender, income, educational level, diabetic status, and smoking status. Mucosal lesions were found in 50 participants (22.4%). The most prevalent lesions were fistulae (6.2%) and traumatic ulcers (4.48%). Oral mucosal was associated with higher age (≥ 35 years; odds ratio [OR] = 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05-3.76, P = 0.03) and lower education level (<9 years; OR = 2.13, 95% CI: 0.96-4.71, P = 0.06). Mucosal conditions are prevalent in Kiriri Indians and the presence of mucosal lesions is associated with advanced age and lower education. A public health program aimed at preventing and treating mucosal lesions and targeted toward the high-risk group is vital to improve the oral health status of this population.

The thymus plays an important role shaping the T cell repertoire in the periphery, partly, through the elimination of inflammatory auto-reactive cells. It has been shown that, during Plasmodium berghei infection, the thymus is rendered atrophic by the premature egress of CD4+CD8+ double-positive (DP) T cells to the periphery. To investigate whether autoimmune diseases are affected after Plasmodium berghei NK65 infection, we immunized C57BL/6 mice, which was previously infected with P. berghei NK65 and treated with chloroquine (CQ), with MOG35-55 peptide and the clinical course of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) was evaluated. Our results showed that NK65+CQ+EAE mice developed a more severe disease than control EAE mice. The same pattern of disease severity was observed in MOG35-55-immunized mice after adoptive transfer of P. berghei-elicited splenic DP-T cells. The higher frequency of IL-17+- and IFN-γ+-producing DP lymphocytes in the Central Nervous System of these mice suggests that immature lymphocytes contribute to disease worsening. To our knowledge, this is the first study to integrate the possible relationship between malaria and multiple sclerosis through the contribution of the thymus. Notwithstanding, further studies must be conducted to assert the relevance of malaria-induced thymic atrophy in the susceptibility and clinical course of other inflammatory autoimmune diseases.

Lectins are proteins or glycoproteins with the ability to link to carbohydrates at the cell surface in a specific and reversible manner. Studies have showed that lectins are demonstrate immunomodulatory and antitumor agents. This study aims to evaluate the effect of lectin extracted from the seeds of Canavalia brasiliensis (ConBr) on murine melanoma B16F10 cells by analyzing cell viability, apoptosis index, cell migration, production of cytokines and nitric oxide (NO). Results showed that ConBr was able to reduce cell viability and thwart apoptosis, which could be observed by decrease in cell migration. ConBr also induced NO and IL-12 synthesis. Altogether, these data demonstrate the potential of ConBr as a therapeutic agent for melanoma., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Parkia pendula seed lectin was used to treat cutaneous wounds of normal and immunocompromised mice, inducing cicatrization. Methotrexate (0.8 mg/kg/week) was used as immunosuppressive drug. Wounds were produced in the dorsal region (1 cm(2)) of female albino Swiss mice (Mus musculus), health and immunocompromised. Wounds were daily topically treated with 100 μL of the following solutions: (1) control (NaCl 0.15 M), (2) control Im (0.15 M NaCl), (3) P. pendula seed lectin (100 μg/mL), and (4) P. pendula seed lectin Im (100 μg/mL). Clinical evaluation was performed during 12 days. Biopsies for histopathology analysis and microbiological examinations were carried out in the second, seventh, and 12th days. The presence of edema and hyperemia was observed in all groups during inflammatory period. The first crust was detected from the second day, only in the groups treated with P. pendula seed lectin. Microbiological analysis of wounds from day 0 to day 2 did not show bacterium at P. pendula seed lectin group; however, Staphylococcus sp. was detected every day in the other groups. The lectin markedly induced a total wound closing at P. pendula seed lectin and P. pendula seed lectin Im groups on 11th day of evolution. The present study suggests that P. pendula seed lectin is a biomaterial potential to show pharmacological effect in the repair process of cutaneous wounds.

Neural crest development is orchestrated by a complex and still poorly understood gene regulatory network. Premigratory neural crest is induced at the lateral border of the neural plate by the combined action of signaling molecules and transcription factors such as AP2, Gbx2, Pax3 and Zic1. Among them, Pax3 and Zic1 are both necessary and sufficient to trigger a complete neural crest developmental program. However, their gene targets in the neural crest regulatory network remain unknown. Here, through a transcriptome analysis of frog microdissected neural border, we identified an extended gene signature for the premigratory neural crest, and we defined novel potential members of the regulatory network. This signature includes 34 novel genes, as well as 44 known genes expressed at the neural border. Using another microarray analysis which combined Pax3 and Zic1 gain-of-function and protein translation blockade, we uncovered 25 Pax3 and Zic1 direct targets within this signature. We demonstrated that the neural border specifiers Pax3 and Zic1 are direct upstream regulators of neural crest specifiers Snail1/2, Foxd3, Twist1, and Tfap2b. In addition, they may modulate the transcriptional output of multiple signaling pathways involved in neural crest development (Wnt, Retinoic Acid) through the induction of key pathway regulators (Axin2 and Cyp26c1). We also found that Pax3 could maintain its own expression through a positive autoregulatory feedback loop. These hierarchical inductions, feedback loops, and pathway modulations provide novel tools to understand the neural crest induction network., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

We evaluate the effects the antibiotic Gentamicin on the development of Chrysomya putoria (Wiedemann, 1818). Third-generation, first-instar larvae were reared in a climatic chamber on 60 g of homogenate + agar 65% and were treated with three concentrations of Gentamicin: 4.44 mg/ml, 13.33 mg/ml, and 66.66 mg/ml. The control consisted of distilled water. The relationships between mean body mass of mature larvae (measured after diet abandonment, in batches of five individuals), duration of larval and pupal stages, and overall duration of development were analyzed. The actual sex ratio was compared against the expected using the chi square. None of the parameters measured differed significantly among the four treatments, with one exception: when Gentamicin concentration was 13.33 mg/ml, larval viability differed significantly from the control. All larvae from all treatments were considered normal. We conclude that the antibiotic did not significantly alter the development of C. putoria (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)., (© The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Entomological Society of America.)

The study aimed to analyze the relation between the training of the nurse and the actions directed to the management of the care to the tuberculosis. With qualitative nature, it was performed in one of the cities of the metropolitan region of João Pessoa-PB. The subjects were ten nurses of the Health Family Strategy. The data collection was performed in February 2010 using a semi structured interview script. To examine the empiric material it was used the technique of content analyzes. In the testimonies of the nurses there was predominance of the thematic TB in the hospital space; they approach either the superficiality and the distance of the care to TB related to the relation between the theory and the practice, and the absence of direct care to the patient of TB during training; according to them, the organization of the services points to a mechanicist and task based practice. One concluded that there is necessity of training institutions to come close to the health services, in a dialogic relation, to organize better the learning spaces.

Objective: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of Laser Therapy in the prevention of oral mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing oncotherapy., Methods: To this systematic review and meta-analysis a search was performed in MEDLINE, LILACS and Cochrane using the keywords "laser therapy" and "Oral mucostitis." The case-control studies included were submitted to odds ratio (OR) analysis, which the cut-off point for statistic calculation was OM grade > 3. We carried out a meta-analysis by BioEstat 5.0, using the Random Effect DerSimonian-Laird statistical analysis., Results: Twelve (studies were included in this systematic review, and the meta-analysis of seven of them showed that LT in patients undergoing oncotherapy is approximately nine times more effective in the prevention of OM grade > 3 than in patients without laser treatment (OR: 9,5281, confidence interval 95% 1,447-52,0354, p=0,0093., Conclusion: These data demonstrated significant prophylatic effect of OM grade > 3 in patients undergoing LT. Further studies, with larger sample sizes, are needed for better evaluation of the prophylatic effect of OM grade > 3 by LT., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.)

Fibrinolytic proteases are enzymes that degrade fibrin; these enzymes are a promising alternative for thrombolytic therapy, and microorganisms produce them. The aim of this study was to evaluate the optimum conditions for the integrated production and purification of fibrinolytic protease from Bacillus sp. UFPEDA 485. Extractive fermentation was carried out in a culture medium containing soybean flour and by adding polyethylene glycol (PEG) and Na2SO4 according to a 2(3) experimental design. In all assays, the enzyme preferentially partitioned to the bottom phase (K < 1), with an optimum activity of 835 U ml(-1) in the bottom phase (salt-rich phase). The best conditions for extractive fermentation were obtained with 18 % PEG 8000 and 13 % Na2SO4. Characterization showed that it is a metalloprotease, as a strong inhibition-residual activity of 3.13 %-occurred in the presence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. It was also observed that enzymatic activity was stimulated in the presence of ions: CaCl2 (440 %), MgCl2 (440 %), FeSO4 (268 %), and KCl (268 %). The obtained results indicate that the use of a low-cost substrate and the integration of fermentation with an aqueous two-phase system extraction may be an interesting alternative for the production of fibrinolytic protease.

Background: Ameloblastomas and keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KOTs) are lesions that are characterized by locally invasive growth and cause extensive bone destruction. In addition, it is known that E-cadherin influences the adhesion of Langerhans cells (LCs) to keratinocytes., Objective and Methods: The aim of this study was to investigate, using immunohistochemistry, the distribution of CD1a-positive cells in ameloblastomas and KOTs and their relationship with E-cadherin, in comparison to calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (CCOT)., Results: The CD1a-positive LCs were observed in 11 ameloblastomas and KOTs. All of the cases of CCOT showed CD1a-positive LCs and a significant difference was found when this tumor was compared with ameloblastomas (P < 0.05, Mann-Whitney test). A statistically significant difference was also noted when comparing CD1a-positive LCs between CCOTs and KOTs (P < 0.05, Mann-Whitney test). Lower expression of E-cadherin in ameloblastomas (AMs) in relation to KOTs and CCOTs (P < 0.05, Fisher test) was observed. There was no correlation between E-cadherin and CD1a-positive LCs between all odontogenic tumors that were studied (P > 0.05, Spearman test)., Conclusion: A quantitative difference of CD1a-positive cells between AMs and KOTs in comparison to CCOTs was observed. This permits to speculate that a depletion of CD1a-positive LCs might influence the local invasiveness of ameloblastomas and KOTs. Furthermore, it is suggested that E-cadherin mediates cell adhesion in these tumors., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

We studied the allelic profile of CAG and CCG repeats in 61 Brazilian individuals in 21 independent families affected by Huntington's disease (HD). Thirteen individuals had two normal alleles for HD, two had one mutable normal allele and no HD phenotype, and forty-six patients carried at least one expanded CAG repeat allele. Forty-five of these individuals had one expanded allele and one individual had one mutable normal allele (27 CAG repeats) and one expanded allele (48 CAG repeats). Eleven of these forty-five subjects had a mutant allele with reduced penetrance, and thirty-four patients had a mutant allele with complete penetrance. Inter- and intragenerational investigations of CAG repeats were also performed. We found a negative correlation between the number of CAG repeats and the age of disease onset (r=-0.84; P<0.001) and no correlation between the number of CCG repeats and the age of disease onset (r=0.06). We found 40 different haplotypes and the analysis showed that (CCG)(10) was linked to a CAG normal allele in 19 haplotypes and to expanded alleles in two haplotypes. We found that (CCG)(7) was linked to expanded CAG repeats in 40 haplotypes (95.24%) and (CCG)(10) was linked to expanded CAG repeats in only two haplotypes (4.76%). Therefore, (CCG)(7) was the most common allele in HD chromosomes in this Brazilian sample. It was also observed that there was a significant association of (CCG)(7) with the expanded CAG alleles (χ(2)=6.97, P=0.0084). Worldwide, the most common CCG alleles have 7 or 10 repeats. In Western Europe, (CCG)(7) is the most frequent allele, similarly to our findings.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted organism associated with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer, the second main cause of malignancy in women worldwide. The virus itself, however, is not enough to cause lesions on the cervix. Several studies suggest that some polymorphic sites changes the cytokines levels and influence the cancer development in HPV infected patients. In this study, we evaluated the presence of functional polymorphisms at +874 (T/A) IFNG and +1188 (A/C) IL-12B genes in cervical smears samples from 76 healthy women and 162 women, HPV positive, with CIN lesion--CIN I (45), CIN II (55), CIN III (53) and cervical cancer (9)--in Brazilian population. There was no significant differences in genotype (p = 0.4192) and allele (p = 0.370; OR = 1.20) distributions between CIN patients and control groups on IFNG allelic polymorphism. Moreover, for IL-12B gene, there was a significant difference in genotype (p = 0.015) and allele distribution (p = 0.014; OR = 0.5754) between the groups. When samples were stratified according to grade of cervical lesion, the AA genotype and A allele were less frequent in the group with low-grade cervical lesions than in group with high-grade cervical lesions (p = 0.0036 and p = 0.0010; OR = 0.3819, respectively), suggesting that the C allele (mutant) may protect against the emergence of CIN lesions and its progression.

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins of non-imune origin. This group of proteins is distributed widely in nature and they have been found in viruses, microorganisms, plants and animals. Lectins of plants have been isolated and characterized according to their chemical, physical-chemical, structural and biological properties. Among their biological activities, we can stress its fungicidal action. It has been previously described the effect of the lectins Dviol, DRL, ConBr and LSL obtained from the seeds of leguminous plants on the growth of yeasts isolated from vaginal secretions. In the present work the experiments were carried out in microtiter plates and the results interpreted by both methods: visual observations and a microplate reader at 530nm. The lectin concentrations varied from 0.5 to 256μg/mL, and the inoculum was established between 65-70% of trammitance. All yeast samples isolated from vaginal secretion were evaluated taxonomically, where were observed macroscopic and microscopic characteristics to each species. The LSL lectin did not demonstrate any antifungal activity to any isolate studied. The other lectins DRL, ConBr and DvioL, showed antifungal potential against yeast isolated from vaginal secretion. These findings offering offer a promising field of investigation to develop new therapeutic strategies against vaginal yeast infections, collaborating to improve women's health.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of CD1a-positive Langerhans cells and their relationship with E-cadherin in minor salivary gland tumors., Methods: Twenty-seven minor salivary gland tumors were investigated using immunohistochemistry for CD1a and E-cadherin., Results: A significant difference regarding the mean density of CD1a-positive Langerhans cells was observed between pleomorphic adenomas and malignant tumors studied (P = 0.001). No CD1a-positive cells were detected in most cases (n = 5) of cystic adenoid carcinomas. CD1a-positive cells were detected in one mucoepidermoid carcinoma case, and six low-grade polymorphous adenocarcinomas cases. Comparison of the mean density of CD1a-positive cells between the three malignant tumors showed no significant difference (P = 0.127). No significant difference was observed in the presence of E-cadherin between tumors (P = 0.73), but it was detected in 24 cases., Conclusions: The lack of CD1a-positive in malignant salivary gland tumors facilitates the neoplastic development and suggests that these cells might be useful as auxiliary diagnostic and prognostic tool in minor salivary gland tumors. Furthermore, it is suggested that E-cadherin mediates cell adhesion in these tumors although we did not demonstrate significance., (© 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Lectins are a structurally heterogeneous group of highly specific carbohydrate-binding proteins. Due to their great biotechnological potential, lectins are widely used in biomedical research. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the healing potential of the lectin of Bauhinia variegata (nBVL) and its recombinant isoform (rBVL-1). Following surgical creation of dorsal skin wounds, seven groups of mice were submitted to topical treatment for 12 days with lectin, D-galactose, BSA and saline. The animals were anesthetized and euthanized on POD 2, 7 and 12 in order to evaluate the healing potential of each treatment. The parameters considered included wound size, contraction rate, epithelialization rate and histopathological findings. Wound closure was fastest in animals treated with rBVL-1 (POD 7). nBVL was more effective than the controls. All skin layers were reconstructed and keratin deposition increased. Our findings indicate that the lectin of Bauhinia variegata possesses pro-healing properties and may be employed in the treatment of acute skin wounds.

Lectins constitute a class of glycoproteins, which are capable of selectively and reversibly binding to carbohydrates, distinguishing small structural differences in complex oligosaccharides. Studies have shown that the binding of lectins to cell-surface carbohydrates can lead to various effects such as cellular proliferation, histamine release and cytokine production. Canavalia brasiliensis lectin (ConBr) is a (D-mannose) D-glucose lectin. In this study, murine splenocytes were cultured to determine the effect of ConBr on cell proliferation, nitric oxide (NO) release and cytokine secretion. In addition, cellular viability assays were performed to evaluate any mitogenic activity induced by this lectin. ConBr significantly increased cell proliferation with minimal cell damage. This lectin was able to induce an increased production of cytokines such as IL-2, IL-6 and IFN-γ and a decreased production of IL- 10. The release of NO was also observed. The results of this study indicate that ConBr could potentially be used as an immunomodulator.

Brazil is known for its great potential for production of renewable resources such as agro-industrial residues. These residues can be used as alternative sources of new products. Meanwhile, solid-state fermentation, with its advantages of energy conservation and pollution reduction, has been identified as a process of great potential for the production of bioactive compounds, especially enzymes. In the present work, a 2(3) factorial design was used to evaluate the effects of pH, temperature and moisture on the production of phytase and xylanase by Lichtheimia blakesleeana URM 5604 through the fermentation of citrus pulp. Statistical analyses of the results showed that the only the pH influenced the production of these enzymes, with the best phytase production (264.68 U/g) ocurring at pH 6.0, 34 °C, initial moisture 50%, after 48 hours of culture. The best conditions for xylanase production (397.82 U/g) were fermentation for 120 hours at pH 4.0, 26 °C and initial moisture of 70%. The best parameters for the simultaneous production of phytase (226.92 U/g) and xylanase (215.59 U/g) were determined to be initial moisture of 50%, pH 6.0, 26 °C, and 48 hours of fermentation.

Cramoll 1,4 is a lectin extracted from seeds of Cratylia mollis Mart. Many assays have shown the cytokine release activity and pro-inflammatory profile of this lectin. Here, we used Cramoll 1,4 in the treatment of cutaneous wounds in normal and immunocompromised mice for available your cicatricial power. Surgical wounds were treated daily with a topical administration of Cramoll 1,4 and parameters as edema, hyperemia, scab, granulation and scar tissues as well as contraction of wounds were analyzed. Cramoll 1,4 wounds showed higher edema and arrival of more polimorphonuclear cells at the site of lesions. Granulation tissue and collagen fiber deposition were observed with higher intensity in all Cramoll 1,4 treated wounds and promoted excellent closing and repair of lesions in less time than other groups. Results showed that Cramoll 1,4 lectin was effective in the repair of experimental lesions in mice and can be used as a future cicatricial compound., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Clavulanic acid is a ß-lactam antibiotic which has a potent ß-lactamase inhibiting activity. In order to optimize its production by the new isolate Streptomyces DAUFPE 3060, the influence of two independent variables, temperature and soybean flour concentration, on clavulanic acid and biomass concentrations was investigated in 250 mL-Erlenmeyers according to a 2(2) central composite design. To this purpose, temperature and soybean flour (SF) concentration were varied in the ranges 26-34°C and 10-50 g/L, respectively, and the results evaluated utilizing the Response Surface Methodology. The experimental maximum production of clavulanic acid (629 mg/L) was obtained at 32°C and 40 g/L SF after 48 h, while the maximum biomass concentration (3.9 g/L) at 30°C and 50 g/L soybean flour, respectively. These values are satisfactorily close to those (640 mg/L and 3.75 g/L, respectively) predicted by the model, thereby demonstrating the validity of the mathematical approach adopted in this study.

This study aimed to evaluate the utilization of dental services in four specialized dental clinics in Bahia State, Brazil, and to identify associated factors. This was an evaluative study in which the quantitative stage focused on a cross-sectional analysis of secondary data from the Outpatient Information System of the Unified National Health System and the qualitative component was based on 20 semi-structured interviews with coordinators and managers, in addition to on-site observation of health services. The study showed good results in the supply of these services from the health professionals' perspective, but with a low utilization rate. The low utilization rate reveals access barriers in the health services themselves, like the lack of performance standards and goals by specialty, lack of patients (who are not replaced), and different technologies used by each specialist. The results suggest the need for studies that analyze different forms of services organization that would have allowed greater utilization of the available supply, with pay differentials, linkage to primary care, and adjustment of the supply to the population's health needs.