Antiedematogenic activity of the indole derivative N-salicyloyltryptamine in animal models

ABSTRACT The N-salicyloyltryptamine (NST) is an indole derivative compound analogue to the alkaloid N-benzoyltryptamine. In the present study, the antiedematogenic activity of NST was investigated in animal models. Firstly, the acute toxicity for NST was assessed according to the OECD Guideline no. 423. The potential NST-induced antiedematogenic activity was evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats, as well as by dextran-, compound 48/80-, histamine-, serotonin-, capsaicine-, and prostaglandin E2-induced paw edema in mice. The effect of NST on compound 48/80-induced ex vivo mast cell degranulation on mice mesenteric bed was investigated. No death or alteration of behavioral parameters was observed after administration of NST (2000 mg/kg, i.p.) during the observation time of 14 days. The NST (100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) inhibited the carrageenan-induced edema from the 1st to the 5th hour (**p<0.01; ***p<0.001). The edematogenic activity induced by dextran, compound 48/80, histamine, serotonin, capsaicin, and prostaglandin E2 was inhibited by NST (100 mg/kg, i.p.) throughout the observation period (**p<0.01; ***p<0.001). The pretreatment with NST (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg, i.p) attenuates the compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation (**p<0.01; ***p<0.001). Thus, the inhibition of both mast cell degranulation and release of endogenous mediators are probably involved in the NST-induced antiedematogenic effect.

Specific immediate early gene expression induced by high doses of salicylate in the cochlear nucleus and inferior colliculus of the rat / Expressão específica de genes precoces imediatos induzida por doses elevadas de salicilato no núcleo coclear e colículo inferior de rato

Abstract Introduction: Salicylate at high doses induces tinnitus in humans and experimental animals. However, the mechanisms and loci of action of salicylate in inducing tinnitus are still not well known. The expression of Immediate Early Genes (IEG) is traditionally associated with long-term neuronal modifications but it is still not clear how and where IEGs are activated in animal models of tinnitus. Objectives: Here we investigated the expression of c-fos and Egr-1, two IEGs, in the Dorsal Cochlear Nucleus (DCN), the Inferior Colliculus (IC), and the Posterior Ventral Cochlear Nucleus (pVCN) of rats. Methods: Rats were treated with doses known to induce tinnitus in rats (300 mg/kg i.p. daily, for 3 days), and c-fos and Egr-1 protein expressions were analyzed using western blot and immunocytochemistry. Results: After administration of salicylate, c-fos protein expression increased significantly in the DCN, pVCN and IC when assayed by western blot. Immunohistochemistry staining showed a more intense labeling of c-fos in the DCN, pVCN and IC and a significant increase in c-fos positive nuclei in the pVCN and IC. We did not detect increased Egr-1 expression in any of these areas. Conclusion: Our data show that a high dose of salicylate activates neurons in the DCN, pVCN and IC. The expression of these genes by high doses of salicylate strongly suggests that plastic changes in these areas are involved in the genesis of tinnitus.

Resumo Introdução: Salicilato em doses elevadas induz zumbido nos seres humanos e em animais experimentais. No entanto, os mecanismos e loci de ação do salicilato na indução de zumbido ainda não são bem conhecidos. A expressão dos genes precoces imediatos (GPIs) está tradicionalmente associada a alterações neuronais em longo prazo, mas ainda não está claro como e onde os GPIs são ativados em modelos animais de zumbido. Objetivos: No presente estudo investigamos a expressão de c-fos e Egr-1, dois GPIs, no núcleo coclear dorsal (NCD), colículo inferior (CI) e núcleo coclear ventral posterior (NCVp) de ratos. Métodos: Os ratos foram tratados com doses que, conhecidamente, induzem zumbido em ratos (300 mg/kg IP/dia, por três dias) e as expressões das proteínas c-fos e Egr-1 foram analisadas por meio de Western blot e imunoistoquímica. Resultados: Após a administração de salicilato, a expressão da proteína c-fos aumentou significativamente no NCD, NCVp e CI, quando analisados por Western blot. A coloração imunoistoquímica mostrou uma marcação mais intensa de c-fos no NCD, NCVp e CI e um aumento significativo de núcleos positivos de c-fos no NCVp e CI. Não detectamos aumento da expressão de Egr-1 em qualquer dessas áreas. Conclusão: Nossos dados mostram que uma dose alta de salicilato ativa neurônios no NCD, NCVp e CI. A expressão desses genes por doses altas de salicilato sugere que as alterações plásticas nessas áreas estão envolvidas na gênese do zumbido.

1, 3, 4-Thiadiazole and 1, 2, 4-triazole-3(4 H )-thione bearing salicylate moiety: synthesis and evaluation as anti- Candida albicans

Abstract Dramatically increased occurrence of both superficial and invasive fungal infections has been observed. Candida albicans appear to be the main etiological agent of invasive fungal infections. The anti-C. albicans activity of thiosemicarbazide, 1,3,4-Thiadiazole, and 1,2,4-triazole-3(4H)-thione compounds (compounds 3-23) were investigated. The MIC values of thiadiazole and triazole derivatives 10-23 were in the range of 0.08-0.17 µmol mL-1, while that of fluconazole was 0.052 µmol mL-1. Compound 11 (5-(2-(4-chlorobenzyloxy)phenyl)-N-allyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine) and compound 18 (5-(2-(4-chlorobenzyloxy)phenyl)-4-allyl-2H-1,2,4-triazole-3(4H)-thione) were found to be the most active compounds, with MIC values of 0.08 µmol mL-1. The newly synthesized thiadiazole and triazole compounds (compounds 10-23) showed promising anti-Candida activity. The allyl substituent-bearing compounds 11 and 18 exhibited significant anti-Candida albicans activity and showed a binding mode as well as the fluconazole x-ray structure.

Influence of diabetes mellitus on the mineralization ability of two endodontic materials

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of diabetes mellituson tissue response and mineralization ability of Sealapex®and MTA Fillapex® sealers. Twenty-four Wistar rats were divided into two groups: diabetic and non-diabetic. The materials were placed in polyethylene tubes and implanted into dorsal connective tissue of rats for 7 and 30 days. Six animals from each group received injection of calcein, alizarin, and oxytetracycline on days 7, 14, and 21, respectively. The animals were killed after 7 and 30 days and specimens were prepared for histologic analysis by staining with hematoxylin and eosin or Von Kossa or left unstained for polarized light or fluorescence microscopy. On day 7, inflammatory reactions were characterized. Moderate inflammatory responses were observed for all groups and on day 30, a mild inflammatory response against MTA Fillapex® and a moderate inflammatory response against Sealapex® were observed. Von Kossa-positive structures were observed in response to both materials and birefringent structures were observed upon polarized light analysis; these had no relation to the diabetic condition (p > 0.05). The fluorescence intensity was unaffected in diabetic rats (p > 0.05). In conclusion, diabetes mellitus did not influence the tissue response or mineralization stimulated by Sealapex® or MTA Fillapex®.

Biocompatibility and biomineralization assessment of bioceramic-, epoxy-, and calcium hydroxide-based sealers

Abstract Obturation of the root canal system aims to fill empty spaces, promoting hermetic sealing and preventing bacterial activity in periapical tissues. This should provide optimal conditions for repair, stimulating the process of biomineralization. An endodontic sealer should be biocompatible once it is in direct contact with periapical tissues. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rat subcutaneous tissue response to implanted polyethylene tubes filled with Smartpaste Bio, Acroseal, and Sealapex and investigate mineralization ability of these endodontic sealers. Forty Wistar rats were assigned to the three sealers groups and control group, (n = 10 animals/group) and received subcutaneous implants containing the test sealers, and the control group were implanted with empty tubes. After days 7, 15, 30, and 60, animals were euthanized and polyethylene tubes were removed with the surrounding tissues. Inflammatory infiltrate and thickness of the fibrous capsule were histologically evaluated. Mineralization was analyzed by Von Kossa staining and polarized light. Data were tabulated and analyzed via Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's test. All tested materials induced a moderate inflammatory reaction in the initial periods. Smartpaste Bio induced the mildest inflammatory reactions after day 15. No difference was observed among groups after days 30 or 60. Von Kossa-positive staining and birefringent structures observed under polarized light revealed a larger mineralization area in Sealapex-treated animals followed by Smartpaste Bio-treated animals. At the end of the experiment, all tested sealers were found to be biocompatible. All sealers induced biomineralization, except Acroseal, which induced a mild tissue reaction.

Antimicrobial action of calcium hydroxide-based endodontic sealers after setting, against E. faecalis biofilm

Abstract Enterococcus faecalis are gram positive bacteria that can mostly resist endodontic therapy, inducing persistent infection in the root canal system. Endodontic sealers with antimicrobial activity may help eliminate residual microorganisms that survive endodontic treatment. The present study aimed at comparing the antimicrobial activity of Acroseal, Sealapex and AH Plus endodontic sealers in an in vitro biofilm model. Bovine dentin specimens (144) were prepared, and twelve blocks for each sealer and each experimental time point (2, 7 and 14 days) were placed and left in contact with plates containing inoculum of E. faecalis (ATCC 51299), to induce biofilm formation. After 14 days, the samples were transferred to another plate with test sealers and kept at 37°C and 5% CO2 for 2, 7 and 14 days. The specimens without sealers were used as a control for each period. The samples were agitated in a sonicator after each experiment. The suspensions were agitated in a vortex mixer, serially diluted in saline, and triple plated onto m-Enterococcus agar. Colonyforming units were counted, and the data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA, Shapiro-Wilk and Kruskal-Wallis one-way tests (p < 0.05) to determine antimicrobial potential. Sealapex showed significant differences at all the experimental time points, in comparison with all the other groups. AH Plus and Acroseal showed antimicrobial activity only on the 14th experimental day. Neither of the sealers tested were able to completely eliminate the biofilm. Sealapex showed the highest antimicrobial activity in all the experimental periods. The antimicrobial activity of all the sealers analyzed increased over time.

Effects of the association of antifungal drugs on the antimicrobial action of endodontic sealers

This in vitro study aimed to determine the susceptibility of oral specimens and ATCC lineages of Candida albicans for five endodontic sealers, which were pure and associated with two antifungal drugs, and to analyze their effect on the physical properties. For this purpose, 30 lineages of C. albicans, collected from the oral cavity of patients assisted at the endodontics clinic of the Universidade Sagrado Coração, were analyzed. Yeasts susceptibility to the sealers was tested by diffusion on agar plates. Physical properties were evaluated according to the ADA specification no. 57. The pure versions of the Sealer 26, AH Plus, Endofill, Fillapex, and Sealapex demonstrated antifungal activity, with Endofill presenting the greatest inhibition zones. All cements, except for Endofill, had their antifungal actions enhanced by addition of ketoconazole and fluconazole (p < 0.05), and the AH Plus presented the best antifungal activity. The addition of antifungal drugs did not interfere with the setting time and flowability of the sealers. It was concluded that the addition of antifungals to endodontic sealers enhanced the antimicrobial action of most cements tested without altering their physical properties.

Evaluation of tissue reaction, cell viability and cytokine production induced by Sealapex Plus

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Sealapex, and a combination of Sealapex and MTA (Sealapex Plus) on the reaction of subcutaneous connective tissue of rats, and on cell viability and cytokine production in mouse fibroblasts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The tissue reaction was carried out with dentin tubes containing the materials implanted in the dorsal connective tissue of rats. The histological analysis was performed after 7 and 30 days. Millipore culture plate inserts with polyethylene tubes filled with materials were placed into 24-well cell culture plates with mouse fibroblasts to evaluate the cell viability by MTT assay. ELISA assays were also performed after 24 h of exposure of the mouse fibroblasts to set material disks. RESULTS: Histopathologic examination showed Von Kossa-positive granules that were birefringent to polarized light for all the studied materials at the tube openings. No material inhibited the cell viability in the in vitro test. It was detected IL-6 production in all root-end filling materials. MTA and Sealapex Plus induced a slight raise of mean levels of IL-1β. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that Sealapex Plus is biocompatible and stimulates the mineralization of the tissue.

Subcutaneous connective tissue response to primary root canal filling materials

This study evaluated the response of the subcutaneous connective tissue of BALB/c mice to root filling materials indicated for primary teeth: zinc oxide/eugenol cement (ZOE), Calen paste thickened with zinc oxide (Calen/ZO) and Sealapex sealer. The mice (n=102) received polyethylene tube implants with the materials, thereby forming 11 groups, as follows: I, II, III: Calen/ZO for 7, 21 and 63 days, respectively; IV, V, VI: Sealapex for 7, 21 and 63 days, respectively; VII, VIII, IX: ZOE for 7, 21 and 63 days, respectively; X and XI: empty tube for 7 and 21 days, respectively. The biopsied tissues were submitted to histological analysis (descriptive analysis and semi-quantitative analysis using a scoring system for collagen fiber formation, tissue thickness and inflammatory infiltrate). A quantitative analysis was performed by measuring the area and thickness of the granulomatous reactionary tissue (GRT). Data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis, ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests (?=0.05). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among the materials with respect to collagen fiber formation or GRT thickness. However, Calen/ZO produced the least severe inflammatory infiltrate (p<0.05). The area of the GRT was significantly smaller (p<0.05) for Calen/ZO and Sealapex. In conclusion, Calen/ZO presented the best tissue reaction, followed by Sealapex and ZOE.

Neste estudo avaliou-se a resposta do tecido conjuntivo subcutâneo de camundongos BALB/c a materiais obturadores de canal radicular de dentes decíduos: óxido de zinco/eugenol (OZE), pasta Calen® espessada com óxido de zinco (Calen/OZ) e cimento Sealapex®. Os camundongos (n=102) receberam implantes de tubos de polietileno??? e foram divididos em grupos: I, II, III - Calen/OZ (7, 21 e 63 dias, respectivamente); IV, V, VI - Sealapex (7, 21 e 63 dias, respectivamente); VII, VIII, IX - OZE (7, 21 e 63 dias, respectivamente); X, XI - tubo vazio (7 e 21 dias, respectivamente). Os tecidos foram submetidos ao processamento e análise histopatológica descritiva e por meio de escores do fibrosamento, espessura tecidual e infiltrado inflamatório. Para a análise quantitativa mensurou-se a área e a espessura do tecido granulomatoso reacional (TGR). Os resultados foram analisados pelos testes de Kruskal-Wallis, ANOVA e pós-teste de Tukey (?=0,05). Não houve diferença significante (p>0,05) entre os materiais, com relação ao fibrosamento e à espessura do TGR. Contudo, Calen/OZ apresentou infiltrado inflamatório de menor intensidade (p<0,05). A área do TGR foi menor (p<0,05) para Calen/OZ e Sealapex. Pôde-se concluir que Calen/OZ foi o material que apresentou a melhor compatibilidade tecidual, seguido pelos cimentos Sealapex e OZE.

Biocompatibility of sealers used in apical surgery: a histological study in rat subcutaneous tissue

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of sealers used in apical surgery in rat subcutaneous tissue. Sterile polyethylene tubes were filled with the following sealers: Sealapex, Sealapex with addition of zinc oxide, Sealer 26, Sealer 26 with thicker consistency (greater powder-to-resin ratio) and White MTA. The tubes were implanted in the dorsum of male rats and after 7, 21 and 42 days, the animals were killed, obtaining 5 specimens for each sealer in each evaluation period. The lateral surface of the tube was used as negative control. The inflammatory reaction to contact with the sealers was classified as absent, mild, moderate and severe. At 7 days, all sealers caused similar inflammatory reactions in the connective tissue of the animals, with most specimens presenting a moderate to intense chronic inflammatory reaction, with presence of multinucleated giant cells. At 21 days, Sealer 26 and Sealer 26 with thicker consistency presented more intense inflammatory reaction (p=0.004), whereas after 42 days, the inflammatory reaction ranged from absent to mild with statistically similar results for both materials (p=0.08). Except for MTA, all sealers presented foreign-body granulomatous reaction at 42 days. All sealers but Sealapex presented a statistically significant decrease of the inflammatory reaction over time. In conclusion, all sealers caused moderate to severe inflammation in the earlier evaluation period. However, Sealer 26 and Sealer 26 with thicker consistency caused more intense inflammatory reactions after 21 days of contact with the tissues and no granulomatous reaction was observed for MTA at the final period of analysis.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a biocompatibilidade de cimentos utilizados em cirurgia apical, em tecidos subcutâneos de ratos. Tubos de polietileno esterilizados foram preenchidos com os seguintes cimentos: Sealapex, Sealapex acrescido de óxido de zinco, Sealer 26, Sealer 26 espessado (maior proporção pó:resina) e MTA branco. Os tubos foram implantados no dorso de ratos machos e após 7, 21 e 42 dias, os animais foram mortos, obtendo 5 amostras por cimento em cada período analisado. A superfície lateral do tubo foi utilizada como controle negativo. A reação inflamatória em contato com os cimentos foram classificadas como ausente, leve, moderada e severa. Aos 7 dias, todos os cimentos induziram reações inflamatórias similares no tecido conjuntivo dos animais, com a maioria dos espécimes apresentando reação inflamatória crônica de moderada a intensa, com presença de células gigantes multinucleadas. Aos 21 dias, Sealer 26 e Sealer 26 espessado apresentaram reação inflamatória mais intensa (p=0,004), enquanto após 42 dias, a reação inflamatória variou de ausente a leve, com resultados estatisticamente semelhantes para ambos materiais (p=0,08). Com exceção do grupo MTA, todos os cimentos apresentavam reação granulomatosa de corpo estranho após 42 dias. Todos os grupos, exceto o Sealapex, apresentaram redução estatisticamente significante dos índices inflamatórios ao longo do tempo. Conclui-se que todos os cimentos induziram reação inflamatória de moderada a intensa no período inicial de análise. Entretanto, Sealer 26 e Sealer 26 espessado apresentaram reação inflamatória mais intensa após 21 dias de contato com os tecidos e reação granulomatosa não foi observada no grupo MTA no período final de análise.

Antibacterial activity of root canal filling materials for primary teeth: zinc oxide and eugenol cement, Calen paste thickened with zinc oxide, Sealapex and EndoREZ

This study evaluated in vitro the antibacterial activity of 4 root canal filling materials for primary teeth - zinc oxide and eugenol cement (ZOE), Calen paste thickened with zinc oxide (Calen/ZO), Sealapex sealer and EndoREZ sealer - against 5 bacterial strains commonly found in endodontic infections (Kocuria rhizophila, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) using the agar diffusion test (agar-well technique). Calen paste, 1 percent chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) and distilled water served as controls. Seven wells per dish were made at equidistant points and immediately filled with the test and control materials. After incubation of the plates at 37oC for 24 h, the diameter of the zones of bacterial growth inhibition produced around the wells was measured (in mm) with a digital caliper under reflected light. Data were analyzed statistically by analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc test (?=0.05). There were statistically significant differences (p<0.0001) among the zones of bacterial growth inhibition produced by the different materials against all target microorganisms. K. rhizophila was inhibited more effectively (p<0.05) by ZOE, while Calen/ZO had its highest antibacterial activity against E. faecalis (p<0.05). S. mutans was inhibited by Calen/ZO, Sealapex and ZOE in the same intensity (p>0.05). E. coli was inhibited more effectively (p<0.05) by ZOE, followed by Calen/ZO and Sealapex. Calen/ZO and ZOE were equally effective (p>0.05) against S. aureus, while Sealapex had the lowest antibacterial efficacy (p<0.05) against this microorganism. EndoREZ presented antibacterial activity only against K. rhizophila and S. aureus. The Calen paste and Calen/ZO produced larger zones of inhibition than 1 percent CHX when the marker microorganism was E faecalis. In conclusion, the in vitro antibacterial activity of the 4 root canal filling materials for primary teeth against bacterial strains...

Este estudo avaliou in vitro a atividade antibacteriana de 4 materiais obturadores de canais radiculares de dentes decíduos - cimento de óxido de zinco e eugenol (OZE), pasta Calen espessada com óxido de zinco (Calen/OZ), cimento Sealapex e cimento EndoREZ - sobre 5 cepas bacterianas comumente encontradas em infecções endodônticas: Kocuria rhizophila, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli e Staphylococcus aureus, usando o teste de difusão em ágar (técnica do poço). A pasta Calen, digluconato de clorexidina a 1 por cento (CHX) e água destilada foram usados como controle. Sete poços por placa foram preparados em pontos eqüidistantes e imediatamente preenchidos com os materiais experimentais e controle. Após incubação das placas a 37oC por 24 h, o diâmetro dos halos de inibição do crescimento bacteriano formados ao redor dos poços foi medido (em mm) com um paquímetro digital sob luz refletida. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise de variância e ao pós-teste de Tukey (?=0,05). Com relação à atividade antibacteriana, evidenciaram-se diferenças estatisticamente significantes (p<0,0001) entre os halos de inibição formados pelos diferentes materiais, para todos os microrganismos avaliados. A K. rhizophila foi inibida mais eficazmente pelo OZE (p<0,05), enquanto que o E. faecalis foi inibido mais eficazmente pela Calen/OZ (p<0,05). O S. mutans foi inibido pela Calen/OZ, cimento Sealapex e OZE na mesma intensidade (p>0,05). A E. coli foi inibida mais eficazmente pelo OZE, seguido pela Calen/OZ e pelo cimento Sealapex (p<0,05). O S. aureus foi inibido pela Calen/OZ e OZE na mesma intensidade (p>0,05), e menos intensamente pelo cimento Sealapex (p<0,05). O cimento EndoREZ apresentou atividade antibacteriana apenas frente a K. rhizophila e ao S. aureus. A pasta Calen e a Calen/OZ ocasionaram halos de inibição maiores que a CHX quando o microrganismo indicador foi o E. faecalis. Pode-se concluir que a atividade antibacteriana...

Avaliação da atividade repelente do timol, mentol, salicilato de metila e ácido salicilico sobre larvas de Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) (Acari: Ixodidae) / Evaluation of repellent activity of thymol, menthol, methyl salicylate and salicylic acid on Boophilus microplus larvae (Canestrini, 1887) (Acari: Ixodidae)

Verificou-se a atividade repelente do timol, mentol, ácido salicílico e salicilato de metila sobre larvas de Boophilus microplus. Essas substâncias foram usadas em emulsões em dimetilsulfuxido aquoso a 1 por cento ou solução aquosa. Para cada substância foram testadas três concentrações, 1,0 por cento; 0,5 por cento e 0,25 por cento, com cinco repetições cada. Cerca de 100 larvas, com 21 dias de idade, foram inseridas na base de hastes de madeira para avaliação da repelência, a cada duas horas, totalizando 12 horas. As concentrações mais elevadas apontaram que as quatro substâncias causaram alteração no comportamento das larvas. Timol, com mortalidade de 65 por cento e 35 por cento de repelência e mentol e salicilato de metila, ambos com 80 por cento de repelência foram os mais eficientes.

The repellent activity of thymol, menthol, salicylic acid and methyl salicylate on Boophilus microplus larvae was studied. These substances were tested according to their solubility: emulsions in 1 percent aqueous dimethylsulphoxide or in pure water. Three concentrations were tested for each substance, 1.0 percent, 0.5 percent and 0.25 percent, with five repetitions for each. Approximately 100 larvae at 21 days of age were placed on the base of wooden sticks and then observed for repellent action every two hours, during twelve hours. The results obtained from the higher concentrations showed that the four substances caused alterations on the larvae behavior. However, thymol (65 percent of mortality and 35 percent of repellency), menthol (80 percent of repellency) and methyl salicylate (80 percent of repellency) were the most efficient.

In vitro evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of endodontic sealers

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the endodontic sealers: N-Rickert, Sealapex, AH Plus, Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) and portland cement. The Agar diffusion method was used in plates previously inoculated with the following microorganisms: C. albicans, S. aureus, E. faecalis, E. coli. The diameters of microbial inhibition zones were measured after 24 hours of incubation in kiln at 37°C. According to the methodology used, it was possible to conclude that only the sealers AH Plus and N-Rickert presented antimicrobial activity against C. albicans, S. aureus, and E. coli; no antimicrobial activity in MTA, Sealapex and portland cement was observed. N-Rickert presented the largest inhibition zones varying from 8 to 18 mm, and the microorganism E. faecalis was resistant against all sealers tested.

O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a capacidade antimicrobiana dos cimentos obturadores de canal: N-Rickert, Sealapex, AH Plus e também do Agregado Trióxido Mineral (MTA) e Cimento de Portland. O método utilizado foi a difusão em Agar, em placas previamente inoculadas com os seguintes microorganismos: C. albicans, S. aureus, E. faecalis, E. coli. A leitura do diâmetro do halo de inibição do crescimento microbiano foi realizada, após 24 horas de incubação, em estufa a 37°C. De acordo com a metodologia empregada, foi possível concluir que: somente os cimentos obturadores AH Plus e N-Rickert apresentaram atividade antimicrobiana contra C. albicans, S. aureus e E. coli; não foi observada atividade antimicrobiana no cimento de Portland, MTA e Sealapex. O cimento N-Rickert apresentou halos de inibição maiores variando de 8 a 18 mm. O microorganismo E. faecalis foi resistente contra todos os cimentos testados.

Antifungal activity of three mouth rinses--in vitro study.

Mouthrinses are nowadays routinely included in the home care oral hygiene maintenance besides dentifrice/tooth paste. Mouthrinses prevent bacterial attachment and prevent or slow down bacterial proliferation. Fungal organisms have now gained more importance due to increased incidence of AIDS/HIV. This has necessitated for mouthrinses to possess antifungal activity also. The mouthrinses used were Povidone iodine ( Wokadine), Thymol with Eucalyptol and Benzoic acid (Listerine) and fluoride with Triclosan (Colgate Plax), which were tested against oral isolates of different species of Candida. The agar diffusion test was used to evaluate the inhibitory activity of the mouthrinses and all of them exhibited antifungal activity especially against Candida albicans.

Molecular characteristics of the inhibition of human neutrophil elastase by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) are known as clinically effective agents for treatment of inflammatory diseases. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase has been thought to be a major facet of the pharmacological mechanism of NSAIDs. However, it is difficult to ascribe the antiinflammatory effects of NSAIDs solely to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Human neutrophil elastase (HNElastase; HNE, EC 3.4.21.37) has been known as a causative factor in inflammatory diseases. To investigate the specific relationship between HNElastase inhibition and specificity of molecular structure of several NSAIDs, HNElastase was purified by Ultrogel AcA54 gel filtration, CM-Sephadex ion exchange, and HPLC (with TSK 250 column) chromatography. HNElastase was inhibited by aspirin and salicylate in a competitive manner and by naproxen, ketoprofen, phenylbutazone, and oxyphenbutazone in a partial competative manner, but not by ibuprofen and tolmetin. HNElastase-phenylbutazone-complex showed strong Raman shifts at 200, 440, 1124, 1194, 1384, 1506, and 1768 cm(-1). The Raman bands 1194, 1384, and 1768 cm(-1) may represent evidences of the conformational change at -N=N-phi radical, pyrazol ring, and -C=O radical of the elastase-drug complex, respectively. Phenylbutazone might be bound to HNElastase by ionic and hydrophobic interaction, and masked the active site. Inhibition of HNElastase could be another mechanism of action of NSAIDs besides cyclooxygenase inhibition in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Different inhibition characteristics of HNE-lastase by NSAIDs such as aspirin, phenylbutazone-like drugs and ineffective drugs could be important points for drawing the criteria for appropriate drugs in clinical application.

An experimental study on evaluation of chemical antagonists induced snake venom neutralization.

The present investigation explored the snake venom neutralizing capacity of four chemical compounds (2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzoic acid, anisic acid, salicylic acid and aspirin) in experimental animals. The venoms of common Indian snakes Viper russellii, Echis carinatus, Naja kaouthia and Ophiophagus hannah were taken to evaluate the lethal, haemorrhagic and defibrinogenation action neutralization. Lethal action of venom was maximum neutralized with 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzoic acid and anisic acid, both in in vitro and in vivo studies. Haemorrhagic activity of venom (Viper and Echis) was maximum neutralized with salicylic acid. Viper venom induced defibrination was maximally neutralized with 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzoic acid and anisic acid in vitro studies. The exact mechanisms of venom neutralization by the chemical compounds were not established, except for 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzoic acid, where the functional groups, methoxy and hydroxy were partly responsible for the neutralization of the lethal effect and haemorrhagic activity.

Aluminum induces lipid peroxidation and aggregation of human blood platelets

Aluminum (Al3+) intoxication is thought to play a major role in the development of Alzheimer's disease and in certain pathologic manifestations arising from long-term hemodialysis. Although the metal does not present redox capacity, it can stimulate tissue lipid peroxidation in animal models. Furthermore, in vitro studies have revealed that the fluoroaluminate complex induces diacyglycerol formation, 43-kDa protein phosphorylation and aggregation. Based on these observations, we postulated that Al3+-induced blood platelet aggregation was mediated by lipid peroxidation. Using chemiluminescence (CL) of luminol as an index of total lipid peroxidation capacity, we established a correlation between lipid peroxidation capacity and platelet aggregation. Al3+ (20-100 muM) stimulated CL production by human blood platelets as well as their aggregation. Incubation of the platelets with the antioxidants nor-dihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) (100 muM) and n-propyl gallate (NPG) (100 muM), inhibitors of the lipoxygenase pathway, completely prevented CL and platelet aggregation. Acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) (100 muM), an inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase pathway, was a weaker inhibitor of both events. These findings suggest that Al3+ stimulates lipid peroxidation and the lipoxygenase pathway in human blood platelets thereby causing their aggregation.

A study of toothbrush contamination at different time intervals and comparative effectiveness of various disinfecting solutions in reducing toothbrush contamination.

Toothbrush contamination during the procedure of brushing was assessed at different time intervals of usage. A peak value of 100% contamination was found at 1 month interval. Hence, a method suggesting disinfection of the toothbrush was employed by comparing the effectiveness of various disinfecting solutions available in the market so that, the brush does not become a source of potential pathogens.

Relación de los factores de riesgo: estado de nutrición y nivel de hábitos de higiene personal con la frecuencia de Verruga Vulgar, y efecto del tratamiento con el Acido Salicílico; en estudiantes del C.E Julio C. Tello del pueblo joven Ciudad Blanca-Paucarpata, Arequipa setiembre de 1994

La Verruga Vulgar Pápula Dérmica, es un problema de salud a nivel mundial, tanto por su contagiosidad como por el aspecto de las lesiones cutáneas. El siguiente estudio se realizó en los estudiantes del nivel primario y secundario, del turno de mañana y tarde, del C.E Julio C. Tello; para determinar la presencia de verruga vulgar y su relación con los factores de riesgo: estado de nutrición y nivel de hábitos de higiene personal, así como comparar el efecto terapéutico del ácido salicílico con un placebo. Consta de dos partes: la primera parte de tipo transversal, pseudoretrospectivo y analítico; la segunda parte de tipo longitudinal, prospectivo y experimental. Se formó el grupo de casos y el grupo control; para encontrar el nivel de habitos de higiene personal en el sistema vigesimal, el estado de nutrición en desviaciones estandard; y relacionarlo con la frecuencia de lesiones de verruga vulgar. Luego se seleccionó 134 estudiantes con verruga vulgar; para formar el grupo experimental y grupo control experimental. Se midió las lesiones de verruga vulgar. Aplicamos tratamiento con ácido salicílico al 26 por ciento en solución de colodion y placebo; durante 15 días por una sola vez al día. Después de una semana de terminar el tratamiento se evaluó el efecto terapéutico. La frecuencia de verruga vulgar fue de 11.63 por ciento; con las siguientes características: es más frecuente; relativamente el sexo masculino con 11.74 por ciento, el grupo etáreo de 8-10 años con 32.6 por ciento, en mano con 71.73 por ciento, el estudiante con una sola lesión con 37.71 por ciento. Solo presentan desnutrición crónica 30.29 por ciento de estudiantes con verruga vulgar, siendo indirecta la relación entre el estado de desnutrición y la frecuencia de lesiones de verruga vulgar, (p<0.05). Presentan nivel de hábitos de higiene personal deficiente 52 por ciento de estudiantes con verrugavulgar, siendo indirecta la relación entre el nivel de hábitos de higiene personal y la frecuencia de lesiones de verruga vulgar, (p<0.001). El efecto terapéutico del ácido salicílico es mejor que el placebo; según el número de estudiantes, número de lesiones, el diámetro y la altura de las lesiones; en todos los casos (p<0.001). Que los profesores pongan más énfasis en la enseñanza sobre la importancia de la higiene personal, se aumente la cobertura del PRONAA en los centros educativos; realizar más estudios sobre el tratamiento de la verruga vulgar con ácido salicílico