Extraction of geraniol from palmarosa oil using hydrotropic solvents / Extracción de geraniol del aceite de palmarosa utilizando solventes hidrotrópicos

The extraction of geraniol from palmarosa oil using hydrotropic solvents was investigated. Palmarosa oil possesses an appealing rose aroma and properties like anti - inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant due to the presence of geraniol. The extraction of geraniol from palmarosa oil by using distillation methods like steam dis tillation and fractional distillation was a laborious process. So hydrotropes were tried for extraction. The geraniol yield and purity depend on parameters like concentration of hydrotrope, solvent volume ratio, and time period. Using the Box Benkhem Desig n (BBD), the extraction process was optimized. One of the major advantages of using hydrotropic solvents is that they were classified as green solvents, and recovery of solvents is also possible. To reduce the extraction time probe sonication is carried ou t. Different hydrotropic solvents with probe sonication are done on palmarosa oil by altering various process parameters to study the separation, yield, and purity.

Se investigó la extracción de geraniol del aceite de palmarosa utilizando solventes hidrotrópicos. El aceite de palmarosa posee un atractivo aroma a rosa y propiedades antiinflamatorias, antifúngicas y antioxidantes debido a la pr esencia de geraniol. La extracción de geraniol del aceite de palmarosa mediante métodos de destilación como la destilación por vapor y la destilación fraccionada ha sido un proceso laborioso. Por lo tanto, se probaron los hidrotropos para la extracción. El rendimiento y la pureza del geraniol dependen de parámetros como la concentración del hidrotropo, la relación de volumen del solvente y el período de tiempo. Se optimizó el proceso de extracción usando el diseño Box Benkhem (BBD). Una de las principales v entajas de usar solventes hidrotrópicos es que se clasifican como solventes verdes y también es posible recuperar los solventes. Para reducir el tiempo de extracción, se lleva a cabo una sonda de ultrasonido. Se realizan diferentes solventes hidrotropos co n sonda de ultrasonido en el aceite de palmarosa alterando varios parámetros del proceso para estudiar la separación, el rendimiento y la pureza.

Digital repair for a patient with limited mouth opening: a case report and literature review / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To explore an accurate method to obtain an intraoral model of patients with specific limited mouth opening (microstomia) due to systemic scleroderma.@*Methods@#This study followed medical ethics, and informed consent has been obtained from patients. A case of Ken's Type I mandibular dentition defect scleroderma with limited mouth opening was addressed with digital technology as the leading method combined with the traditional impression method of segmental impression. Individual trays were made based on the patient's left and right mandibular dentition, and segmented molds were obtained. Simultaneously, intraoral scanning was performed to obtain the morphological data of both the soft and hard tissues of the upper and lower mandibles. After each part of the model was obtained, the mandibular model was scanned and digitally aligned to form the final denture model, and the final removable partial denture was designed and made by computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. At the same time, combined with the literature, the diagnosis and treatment of removable partial denture in patients with limited mouth opening were retrospectively analyzed.@*Results@#The denture was well retained and achieved a good repair effect. The patients expressed satisfaction with the mastication efficiency and other functions of the denture. The findings of the literature review show that the integration of digital technology with the traditional impression method, along with computer fitting, can accurately obtain the patient's oral model and facilitate successful follow-up repairs. However, when the anterior mandibular dentition of the patient is absent, the margin of error is increased in this procedure, which deserves further exploration.@*Conclusion@#Utilizing digital technology as the leading method, combined with the traditional impression method of segmental impression, for the repair of dental defects in patients with limited mouth opening, has proven to be effective. Thus, patients report a positive medical experience with high satisfaction, indicating that this approach is worthy of clinical promotion.

Formulation and technology of oxymatrine-astragaloside IV coloaded liposomes based on quality by design / 药学学报

To optimize the formulation and technology of oxymatrine-astragaloside IV coloaded liposomes (Om-As-Lip) based on quality by design (QbD) principles, and further to verify the feasibility of its amplification process, Om-As-Lip was prepared by ethanol injection combined with pH gradient method. The critical material attributions of Om-As-Lip were evaluated by dual-risk analysis tools and Plackett-Burman design (PBD). The formulation of Om-As-Lip was further optimized with the Box-Behnken design (BBD). The design space was also established based on the contour plots of BBD. In order to further investigate the amplification process of Om-As-Lip, the critical process parameters of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) were optimized by single-factor test, and the quality of the final product was also evaluated. The results of risk analysis and PBD confirmed that the astragaloside concentration, cholesterol concentration, and phospholipid ratio (HSPC∶SPC) were the ctitical material attributes. The model established by BBD had a good predictability, and the optimized mass ratio of As to phospholipids was 1∶40, cholesterol to phospholipids was 1∶10, HSPC to SPC was 51∶9. The design space of Om-As-Lip was as follows: the ratio of cholesterol to phospholipids was 1∶12-1∶5 and HSPC to SPC was 1∶7-17∶3. The optimized high-pressure homogenization pressure was 600 bar, temperature was 4 ℃, and cycle times was 6 times for HPH-Om-As-Lip. The quality of Om-As-Lip prepared based on the QbD concept can meet the expected CQAs, and the formulation and technology established can provide a reliable experimental basis for its future development and applications.

Recent advances in small-molecule inhibitors targeting influenza virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase / 药学学报

Influenza virus causes serious threat to human life and health. Due to the inherent high variability of influenza virus, clinically resistant mutant strains of currently approved anti-influenza virus drugs have emerged. Therefore, it is urgent to develop antiviral drugs with new targets or mechanisms of action. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is directly responsible for viral RNA transcription and replication, and plays key roles in the viral life cycle, which is considered an important target of anti-influenza drug design. From the point of view of medicinal chemistry, this review summarizes current advances in diverse small-molecule inhibitors targeting influenza virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, hoping to provide valuable reference for development of novel antiviral drugs.

Research progress of natural product evodiamine-based antitumor drug design strategies / 药学学报

Natural products are important sources for the discovery of anti-tumor drugs. Evodiamine is the main alkaloid component of the traditional Chinese herb Wu-Chu-Yu, and it has weak antitumor activity. In recent years, a number of highly active antitumor candidates have been discovered with a significant progress. This article reviews the research progress of evodiamine-based antitumor drug design strategies, in order to provide reference for the development of new drugs with natural products as leads.

Challenges of computer-assisted orthognathic surgery in clinical application / 口腔疾病防治

@#After years of development, the advantages of computer-assisted orthognathic surgery have been widely recognized. However, the clinical application of this technology is challenging. Each step may generate errors from data acquisition, computer-assisted diagnosis, and computer-assisted surgical design, causing errors to be transferred from the virtual surgical plan to the operation. The accumulation and amplification of errors will affect the final surgical effect. Currently, digital devices, such as intraoral scanners, are being explored for error control, utilizing automation methods and algorithms, and implementing personalized bone positioning methods. Moreover, there are still many problems that have not been fully resolved, such as precise simulation of postoperative soft tissue, functional assessment of mandibular movement, and absorbable internal fixation materials. Fully understanding computer-assisted orthognathic surgery's limitations could provide direction for optimizing existing methods while helping clinicians avoid risks and maximize its advantages to achieve the best outcome. Many emerging and cutting-edge technologies, such as personalized titanium plates, artificial intelligence, and surgical robots, will further promote the development of this discipline. We can expect future optimization of digital orthognathic surgical technology by innovations in automation, intelligence, and personalization.

Accuracy of digital guided implant surgery: expert consensus on nonsurgical factors and their treatments / 口腔疾病防治

@#The standardized workflow of computer-aided static guided implant surgery includes preoperative examination, data acquisition, guide design, guide fabrication and surgery. Errors may occur at each step, leading to irreversible cumulative effects and thus impacting the accuracy of implant placement. However, clinicians tend to focus on factors causing errors in surgical operations, ignoring the possibility of irreversible errors in nonstandard guided surgery. Based on the clinical practice of domestic experts and research progress at home and abroad, this paper summarizes the sources of errors in guided implant surgery from the perspectives of preoperative inspection, data collection, guide designing and manufacturing and describes strategies to resolve errors so as to gain expert consensus. Consensus recommendation: 1. Preoperative considerations: the appropriate implant guide type should be selected according to the patient's oral condition before surgery, and a retaining screw-assisted support guide should be selected if necessary. 2. Data acquisition should be standardized as much as possible, including beam CT and extraoral scanning. CBCT performed with the patient’s head fixed and with a small field of view is recommended. For patients with metal prostheses inside the mouth, a registration marker guide should be used, and the ambient temperature and light of the external oral scanner should be reasonably controlled. 3. Optimization of computer-aided design: it is recommended to select a handle-guided planting system and a closed metal sleeve and to register images by overlapping markers. Properly designing the retaining screws, extending the support structure of the guide plate and increasing the length of the guide section are methods to feasibly reduce the incidence of surgical errors. 4. Improving computer-aided production: it is also crucial to set the best printing parameters according to different printing technologies and to choose the most appropriate postprocessing procedures.

Coping strategies of Filipino mothers of children with congenital heart disease in a Tertiary Hospital in the Philippines

Background and Objective@#Mothers play a significant role as primary caregivers for children with congenital heart disease (CHD) within the family. Given the complex health needs of children with CHD, coping strategies are needed to deal with the challenges associated with caring for their children with the condition. Coping mechanisms encompass fostering resilience, seeking support, and maintaining a positive outlook to navigate stress, uncertainty, and obstacles throughout their child's medical journey with CHD. The objective of this study is to explore the coping strategies employed by mothers of children diagnosed with CHD in a tertiary hospital in the Philippines. @*Methods@#Employing a descriptive qualitative study design, data was gathered through key informant interviews utilizing a semi-structured topic guide, which aimed to explore the perspectives and experiences of mothers with children with CHDs. Ethical approval was obtained, and data collection occurred from January to March 2016. Interview transcripts were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and underwent content analysis. Themes derived from the analysis were then validated and confirmed by the study participants. @*Results@#A total of 11 mothers voluntarily participated in the study. These participants expressed utilizing various coping strategies to manage their child's condition, including seeking assistance from both physicians and traditional healers, advocating for their children, receiving support from their family and friends, regulation of emotion, and prayer and faith in God. @*Conclusion@#This study sheds light on the coping mechanisms used by mothers in raising thier children with CHD, highlighting the value of spirituality and psychological support in their journey. Enhancing assistance for impacted families and advancing genetic counseling services are two benefits of incorporating these findings into healthcare practice.

Study on extraction technology of Sophora flavescens-Phellodendron chinense drug pair / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To study the extraction technology of Sophora flavescens-Phellodendron chinense drug pair and provide a reference for the development of new drugs for the treatment of anorectal diseases. METHODS Using the contents of total alkaloids of S. flavescens （matrine+oxymatrine）， berberine hydrochloride and total flavonoid， and extract yield as evaluation indicators， analytic hierarchy process-entropy weight method was used to calculate the weight coefficient of each indicator， and was combined with Box-Behnken design-response surface method to study the extraction technology of S. flavescens-P. chinense drug pair and verify it. RESULTS The optimal extraction technology of S. flavescens-P. chinense drug pair was immersed in 12-fold amount of 58% ethanol for 30 minutes and extracted twice， each time for 120 minutes. The relative error between the verification experimental results and the predicted value was 1.88%. CONCLUSIONS The obtained extraction technology is stable and feasible and can provide reference for the application of S. flavescens-P. chinense drug pair and development of new drugs.

Clinical application of perforator vessel location guide plate for fibular musculocutaneous flaps / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#Based on 3D printing technology, explore the precision of a perforator vessel location guide plate for fibular musculocutaneous flaps before the transplantation of fibular osteocutaneous flaps and evaluate its application effects.@*Methods@#This study was reviewed and approved by the ethics committee, and informed consent was obtained from the patients. From May 2019 to October 2022, 14 patients with jaw defects who needed to undergo fibular perforator flap transplantation at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University were selected. For the seven patients in the guide plate group, CTA was combined with Mimics software to reconstruct both lower limbs, and the perforator vessel positioning guide for locating perforator vessels was designed; the two ends of the guide plate were designed as fixed ends, with the upper end fixed to the knee joint and the lower end fixed to the ankle joint, and the guide plate was fabricated by a 3D printer. For the seven patients in the control group, a conventional handheld Doppler probe was used for perforator vessel location. The average operation time, bleeding volume, recovery time, deviation of perforator vessel location, postoperative flap-related complications, postoperative donor site shape satisfaction, and lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) score were recorded. SPSS 25.0 software was used for statistical analysis.@*Results@#The average operation time, bleeding volume, recovery time, deviation of perforator vessel location and postoperative donor site shape satisfaction were significantly better in the guide plate group than in the control group (P<0.05); moreover, the differences in postoperative flap-related complications and LEFS scores were not statistically significant (P>0.05).@*Conclusion@#Based on 3D printing technology, fibular musculocutaneous flap perforator vessels can be more accurately located using a guide plate and the knee and ankle as fixed points, and this method can effectively stabilize the guide position, prevent soft tissue offset, and improve positioning accuracy and thus deserves to be generalized.

Clinical study of polyetheretherketone resin-bonded bridge for restoring anterior missing teeth in patients with periodontitis / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To study the clinical effect of a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) bonding bridge on the loss of 3 internal incisors in patients with periodontitis.@*Methods@#This study was reviewed and approved by the ethics committee, and informed consent was obtained from the patients. Thirty-eight patients with periodontitis and 3 missing central or lateral teeth were selected to undergo restoration with a PEEK bonding bridge and then returned to the hospital 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after the restoration was completed. The survival rate of the restorations was assessed by the modified USPHS/Ryge criteria. The plaque index, gingival index, periodontal probing depth and attachment loss of the abutments were recorded, and the changes in periodontal tissues after restoration were observed and compared.@*Results@#Over 24 months of clinical follow-up observation of 38 patients, only 1 patient underwent secondary bonding after partial debonding (evaluated as grade B), while bonding was successful in the other 37 cases (evaluated as grade A). The plaque index, gingival index and periodontal probing depth were significantly lower after restoration than before (P<0.05). There was no significant change in attachment loss between before and after restoration (P>0.05).@*Conclusion@#For periodontitis patients missing 3 internal incisors, short-term PEEK bonding bridge repair has good clinical efficacy.

Preparation and in vitro dissolution behaviors evaluation of silymarin phospholipid complex / 药学实践杂志

Objective To prepare silymarin phospholipids complex（SM-PC） and investigate its physicochemical properties. Methods On the basis of single-factor tests, the drug-lipid ratio, drug concentration and reaction temperature were selected as the factors of the central composite design and response surface methodology in the preparation of SM-PC by solvent volatilization, and the best process was optimized with the compound rate as the index. And its in vitro dissolution was measured. Results The optimum preparation technology of SM-PC was as follows: acetone was used as compound solvent, the concentration of SM was 8.0 mg/ml, the mass ratio of SM to phospholipid was 1∶1.8, the reaction temperature was 56 ℃ and the recombination rate was（95.15±1.55）% with deviation of less than 3%. The in vitro dissolution test showed that the dissolution of SM-PC was close to 90% in 60 min. The dissolution behavior of main component of silybin was similar to that of silymarin capsules（Legalon ®）, which was higher than SM-API. Conclusion SM-PC was successfully prepared by central composite design response surface method, which significantly improved the dissolution and laid a foundation for the study of subsequent preparations.

Lipid nanovehicles overcome barriers to systemic RNA delivery: Lipid components, fabrication methods, and rational design

Lipid nanovehicles are currently the most advanced vehicles used for RNA delivery, as demonstrated by the approval of patisiran for amyloidosis therapy in 2018. To illuminate the unique superiority of lipid nanovehicles in RNA delivery, in this review, we first introduce various RNA therapeutics, describe systemic delivery barriers, and explain the lipid components and methods used for lipid nanovehicle preparation. Then, we emphasize crucial advances in lipid nanovehicle design for overcoming barriers to systemic RNA delivery. Finally, the current status and challenges of lipid nanovehicle-based RNA therapeutics in clinical applications are also discussed. Our objective is to provide a comprehensive overview showing how to utilize lipid nanovehicles to overcome multiple barriers to systemic RNA delivery, inspiring the development of more high-performance RNA lipid nanovesicles in the future.

Structure-based development of potent and selective type-II kinase inhibitors of RIPK1

Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) functions as a key regulator in inflammation and cell death and is involved in mediating a variety of inflammatory or degenerative diseases. A number of allosteric RIPK1 inhibitors (RIPK1i) have been developed, and some of them have already advanced into clinical evaluation. Recently, selective RIPK1i that interact with both the allosteric pocket and the ATP-binding site of RIPK1 have started to emerge. Here, we report the rational development of a new series of type-II RIPK1i based on the rediscovery of a reported but mechanistically atypical RIPK3i. We also describe the structure-guided lead optimization of a potent, selective, and orally bioavailable RIPK1i, 62, which exhibits extraordinary efficacies in mouse models of acute or chronic inflammatory diseases. Collectively, 62 provides a useful tool for evaluating RIPK1 in animal disease models and a promising lead for further drug development.

Effect of different thread configurations on hydrophilic implant stability. A split-mouth RCT

Abstract This split-mouth randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the primary and secondary stability of hybrid implants with different thread configurations and hydrophilic surfaces. Twenty patients with a partially edentulous maxilla were selected. These patients received two types of implants with the same hydrophilic surface: CTP group: Cylindrical-Tapered implant with perforating threads; CTH: Cylindrical-Tapered implant with hybrid threads configuration (perforating and condensing threads). The primary and secondary stability parameters were measured by insertion torque and resonance frequency analysis at the time of implant placement and 7, 28, 56, and 90 days after the surgical procedure. The paired t-test was used to compare the data on the implant's stability between the groups. The statistical analysis was performed with a confidence level set at 95%. It was found that the implants in the CTH group presented higher primary stability values ​​at the time of implant placement, due to the higher ISQ (63.61 ± 9.44 vs. 40.59 ±7.46) and insertion torque (36.92 ± 16.50 Ncm vs. 28.00 ± 14.40 Ncm), than the implants in the CTP group. The CTH group presented higher ISQ values ​​in all follow-up periods: 7 days (68.67 ± 7.60 vs. 41.55 ± 9.07), 28 days (68.61 ± 5.98 vs. 47.90 ±13.10), 56 days (74.09 ± 3.96 vs. 55.85 ± 13.18), and 90 days (75.45 ± 4.02 vs. 63.47 ± 6.92) after implant placement. Hybrid implants with perforating and condensing threads demonstrated greater stability than hybrid implants with only perforating threads.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo controlado randomizado de boca dividida foi avaliar a estabilidade primária e secundária de implantes híbridos com diferentes configurações de rosca e superfícies hidrofílicas. Vinte pacientes com maxila parcialmente edêntula foram selecionados. Esses pacientes receberam dois tipos de implantes com a mesma superfície hidrofílica: Grupo CTP: Implante cilíndrico-cônico com roscas perfurantes; Grupo CTH: Implante cilíndrico-cônico com roscas perfurantes e condensadoras. Os parâmetros de estabilidade primária e secundária foram medidos por análise de torque de inserção e frequência de ressonância no momento da colocação do implante e 7, 28, 56 e 90 dias após o procedimento cirúrgico. O teste t-pareado foi utilizado para comparação dos dados de estabilidade entre os grupos. A análise estatística foi executada levando-se em consideração um nível de confiança de 95%. Constatou-se que os implantes do grupo CTH apresentaram maiores valores de estabilidade primária no momento da colocação do implante, devido ao maior ISQ (63.61 ± 9.44 vs. 40.59 ±7.46) e torque de inserção (36.92 ± 16.50 Ncm vs. 28.00 ± 14.40 Ncm), do que os implantes do grupo CTP. Implantes do grupo CTH apresentaram valores de ISQ superiores em todos os períodos de acompanhamento: 7 dias (68.67 ± 7.60 vs. 41.55 ± 9.07), 28 dias (68.61 ± 5.98 vs. 47.90 ±13.10), 56 dias (74.09 ± 3.96 vs. 55.85 ± 13.18) e 90 dias (75.45 ± 4.02 vs. 63.47 ± 6.92). Os implantes híbridos com roscas perfurantes e condensantes demonstraram maior estabilidade do que os implantes híbridos com apenas roscas perfurantes.

Complexos polieletrólitos de quitosana e xantana carregados com ativos naturais e sintéticos: estudo físico/químico e microbiológico para aplicação de drug delivery / Polyelectrolyte complexes of chitosan and xanthan loaded with natural and synthetic actives: physicochemical and microbiological study for drug delivery application

A eficácia dos implantes osseointegrados é amplamente reconhecida na literatura científica. Contudo, infiltrações bacterianas na junção implante-pilar podem desencadear inflamação nos tecidos circundantes, contribuindo para a evolução de condições mais sérias, como a peri-implantite. O objetivo desse estudo foi produzir complexos polieletrólitos (PECs) de quitosana (Q) e xantana (X) em forma de membranas, carregá-las com ativos naturais e sintéticos antimicrobianos, caracterizálas estruturalmente e avaliá-las frente a degradação enzimática, cinética de liberação e ações antimicrobianas com finalidade de aplicação para drug delivery. Membranas de QX a 1% (m/v) foram produzidas em três proporções, totalizando doze grupos experimentais: QX (1:1); QX (1:2), QX (2:1), QX-P (com própolis) (1:1); QX-P (1:2); QX-P (2:1); QX-C (com canela) (1:1); QX-C (1:2); QX-C (2:1) e CLX (com clorexidina 0,2%) (1:1); CLX (1:2); CLX (2:1). Para os estudos de caracterização foram feitas análises da espessura em estado seco; análises morfológicas superficial e transversal em Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV); análise estrutural de espectroscopia de infravermelho por transformada de Fourier (FTIR); análise de degradação por perda de massa sob ação da enzima lisozima; e análise da cinética de liberação dos ativos em saliva artificial. Para os testes microbiológicos, análises de verificação de halo de inibição e ação antibiofilme foram feitas contra cepas de Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) e Escherichia coli (E. coli). Os resultados demonstraram que a espessura das membranas variou conforme a proporção, sendo que o grupo QX (1:2) apresentou a maior média de 1,022 mm ± 0,2, seguida respectivamente do QX (1:1) com 0,641 mm ± 0,1 e QX (2:1) com 0,249 mm ± 0,1. Nas imagens de MEV é possível observar uma maior presença de fibras, rugosidade e porosidade nos grupos QX (1:2) e QX (1:1) respectivamente, e, no QX (2:1) uma superfície mais lisa, uniforme e fina. No FTIR foram confirmados os picos característicos dos materiais isoladamente, além de observar as ligações iônicas que ocorreram para formação dos PECs. Na análise de degradação, os grupos com ativos naturais adicionados tiveram melhores taxas de sobrevida do que os grupos QX. No teste de liberação, os grupos QX-P tiveram uma cinética mais lenta que os QX-C, cuja liberação acumulada de 100% foi feita em 24 h. Já nos testes do halo inibitório, somente os grupos CLX tiveram ação sobre as duas cepas, e os QX-P tiveram sobre S. aureus. Nas análises antibiofilme, os grupos CLX apresentaram as maiores taxas de redução metabólica nas duas cepas (± 79%); os grupos QX-P apresentaram taxas de redução similares em ambas as cepas, porém com percentual um pouco maior para E. coli (60- 80%) e os grupos QX-C tiveram grande discrepância entre as duas cepas: de 35 a 70% para S. aureus e 14 a 19% para E. coli. Pode-se concluir que, frente as análises feitas, o comportamento do material foi afetado diretamente pelos ativos adicionados a matriz polimérica. As proporções de Q ou X afetaram somente a espessura final. Quanto a aplicação proposta de drug delivery, os dispositivos apresentaram grande potencial, principalmente os grupos CLX e QX-P. (AU)

The effectiveness of osseointegrated implants is widely recognized in scientific literature. However, bacterial infiltrations at the implant-abutment interface may trigger inflammation in surrounding tissues, contributing to the development of more serious conditions, such as peri-implantitis. The aim of this study was to produce chitosan (Q) and xanthan (X) polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) in the form of membranes, load and evaluate them for enzymatic degradation, release kinetics, and antimicrobial actions for drug delivery applications. QX membranes at 1% (w/v) were produced in three proportions, totaling twelve experimental groups: QX (1:1), QX (1:2), QX (2:1), QX-P (with propolis) (1:1), QX-P (1:2), QX-P (2:1), QX-C (with cinnamon) (1:1), QX-C (1:2), QX-C (2:1), and CLX (with 0.2% chlorhexidine) (1:1), CLX (1:2), CLX (2:1). Characterization studies included analyses of dry state thickness, surface and crosssectional morphology using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), structural analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, mass loss degradation analysis under lysozyme action, and active release kinetics analysis in artificial saliva. Microbiological tests included verification analyses of inhibition halos and antibiofilm action against strains of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Results showed that membrane thickness varied according to proportion, with group QX (1:2) presenting the highest average of 1.022 mm ± 0.2, followed by QX (1:1) with 0.641 mm ± 0.1, and QX (2:1) with 0.249 mm ± 0.1. SEM images showed greater presence of fibers, roughness, and porosity in groups QX (1:2) and QX (1:1) respectively, while QX (2:1) exhibited a smoother, more uniform, and thinner surface. FTIR confirmed characteristic peaks of the materials individually, besides showing ionic bonds formed for PECs. Degradation analysis revealed that groups with added natural actives had better survival rates than QX groups. In release tests, QX-P groups exhibited slower kinetics than QX-C, with 100% cumulative release achieved in 24 h. inhibitory halo tests, only CLX groups exhibited action against both strains, while QX-P acted against S. aureus. Antibiofilm analyses showed CLX groups with the highest metabolic reduction rates in both strains (± 79%); QX-P groups showed similar reduction rates in both strains, slightly higher for E. coli (60-80%), and QX-C groups had a significant discrepancy between strains: 35-70% for S. aureus and 14-19% for E. coli. In conclusion, material behavior was directly affected by added actives to the polymeric matrix. Proportions of Q or X only affected final thickness. Regarding proposed drug delivery applications, the devices showed great potential, especially CLX and QX-P groups.(AU)

Design thinking como metodologia na elaboração de uma proposta de matriz curricular / Design thinking as a methodology in the elaboration of a curricular structure proposal

Resumo Introdução: A matriz curricular do curso de Medicina pode variar de acordo com o projeto pedagógico de curso (PPC) de cada instituição de ensino superior (IES). Nem sempre a visão da coordenação e do corpo docente do curso de Medicina está alinhada às opiniões dos alunos. Assim, a utilização de uma metodologia para identificar a visão do corpo discente seria fundamental. O design thinking (DT) é um processo que propõe a busca, de forma empática, colaborativa e criativa, de soluções para problemas complexos. Objetivo: Este estudo apresenta o DT como uma metodologia para identificar como os alunos do internato acreditam que deva ser a matriz curricular do primeiro ao quarto ano de um curso de Medicina no estado de São Paulo, e, para tanto, coletaram-se sugestões e pontos que exigiram a reavaliação na matriz original. Método: Realizou-se uma avaliação qualitativa com base no modelo do DT. Os alunos foram divididos em três grupos de cinco alunos, e cada grupo dedicou-se a discutir livremente sobre suas ideias acerca da matriz curricular. Posteriormente, apresentou-se um painel para cada grupo com a separação dos semestres correspondentes - do primeiro ao quarto ano - com post-it representando a matriz curricular vigente do curso de Medicina, e cada grupo teve uma hora para remontar a matriz curricular da maneira que julgasse mais adequado. Resultado: Após a fase de discussão, cada grupo montou sua matriz curricular, e propuseram-se algumas mudanças do ano em que a disciplina era ministrada e a inclusão de algumas matérias. A maioria das sugestões foi julgada procedente e incorporada na matriz curricular. Conclusão: A metodologia do DT contribuiu para a identificação de várias demandas acerca da matriz curricular de uma forma ordenada, empática e colaborativa, levando em consideração a opinião do estudante, sendo, portanto, uma estratégia de planejamento capaz de evidenciar fragilidades e fortalezas do currículo que talvez não fossem percebidas por outras estratégias.

Abstract Introduction: The medical school curricular structure may vary according to the educational planning of each higher education institution (HEI). The viewpoint of the coordination and the medical school faculty is not always aligned with the students' opinions. Thus, using a methodology to identify the students' point of view would be essential. Design thinking (DT) is a process that proposes a search, in an empathetic, collaborative, and creative way, for solutions to complex problems. Objectives: To present DT as a methodology to identify how clinical internship students believe the curricular structure from the 1st to the 4th year of a São Paulo state medical school should be, by collecting suggestions and points that require a re-evaluation process of the current curricular structure. Methods: This is a qualitative assessment, which will use the DT model. Students were divided into three groups of five, and each group was committed to having a free discussion on its ideas concerning the curricular structure. Then, a panel was presented to each group, dividing the semesters from the 1st to the 4th year with post-it notes representing the current curricular structure of the medical school, and each group had one hour to reassemble the curricular structure as they deemed appropriate. Results: After the discussion stage, each group assembled its curricular structure. Some changes concerning the year in which the discipline was provided were proposed, and the inclusion of others. Most of the suggestions were considered valid and were incorporated into the curriculum. Conclusions: The DT methodology contributed to the identification of several demands regarding the curricular structure in an orderly, empathetic, and collaborative way, taking into account the students' opinions. It is, therefore, a planning strategy able to evidence weaknesses and strengths of the curriculum that might not have been noticed by the use of other strategies.

Evaluation of the usability of the Quali+ mobile application for people with high blood pressure / Evaluación de la usabilidad de la aplicación móvil Quali+ para personas con hipertensión arterial / Avaliação da usabilidade do aplicativo móvel Quali+ para pessoas com hipertensão arterial

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the usability of the "Quali+" mobile application prototype for people with high blood pressure. Method: Descriptive, cross-sectional study of heuristic evaluation of a mobile application prototype carried out between June and July 2021, in a university hospital. Participants were 22 people with arterial hypertension in the city of Campina Grande, PB, Brazil. To measure usability, the Smartphone Usability questionnaiRE instrument was applied. Levels (70 points have good usability. Descriptive statistics were used. Results: The overall usability average was 105.8(7.44 points, with the lowest score being 83 and the highest being 113. Usability was at the highest level(80 points). Conclusion: The usability evaluation showed that, although it is a prototype, the application has good usability and can be considered for routine use in health self-management. Future research is needed to verify its effectiveness.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la usabilidad del prototipo de aplicación móvil "Quali+" para personas con hipertensión arterial. Método: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, de evaluación heurística de un prototipo de aplicación móvil realizado entre junio y julio de 2021, en un hospital universitario. Los participantes fueron 22 personas con hipertensión arterial en la ciudad de Campina Grande, PB, Brasil. Para medir la usabilidad se aplicó el instrumento Smartphone Usability QuestionnaiRE. Los niveles ( 70 puntos tienen buena usabilidad. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva. Resultados: Los principales hallazgos del estudio deben presentarse de manera concisa y clara, sin excesivos detalles. Los resultados deben estar alineados con la sección de resultados del artículo completo, proporcionando información más detallada sobre los análisis estadísticos realizados y los principales resultados encontrados. Conclusión: La evaluación de la usabilidad mostró que, aunque se trata de un prototipo, la aplicación tiene una buena usabilidad y puede considerarse para uso rutinario en la autogestión de la salud. Se necesita investigación futura para verificar su eficacia.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a usabilidade do protótipo de aplicativo móvel "Quali+" para pessoas com hipertensão arterial. Método: Estudo descritivo, transversal, de avaliação heurística de um protótipo de aplicativo móvel realizado entre junho e julho de 2021, em hospital universitário. Participaram 22 pessoas com hipertensão arterial, na cidade de Campina Grande, PB, Brasil. Para mensuração da usabilidade, aplicou-se o instrumento Smartphone Usability questionnaiRE. Níveis (70 pontos apresentam boa usabilidade. Utilizou-se da estatística descritiva. Resultados: A média geral de usabilidade foi 105,8(7,44 pontos, obtiveram-se como menor escore 83 e, maior 113. A usabilidade se enquadrou no nível mais elevado (80 pontos). Conclusão: A avaliação da usabilidade constatou que, ainda que se trate de um protótipo, o aplicativo apresenta boa usabilidade, podendo ser considerado para o uso rotineiro na autogestão em saúde. Pesquisas futuras são necessárias para verificar a eficácia.

Utilidad de la tecnología CAD/CAM en la fabricación de prótesis dentales

La tecnología CAD/CAM es una forma innovadora relacionada con la implementación de técnicas digitales para mejorar las restauraciones prostéticas en un paciente, entre ellas, las destinadas a la estética dental. El presente estudio tiene el objetivo de describir la utilidad de la tecnología CAD/CAM en la fabricación de prótesis dentales. Para ello se realizó una revisión de la literatura médica disponible en las bases de datos PubMed/Medline, Scopus y SciELO, mediante fórmulas de búsqueda avanzada; se seleccionaron artículos en idioma español e inglés. En la actualidad, con esta tecnología se ha logrado combinar estética, resistencia y precisión en la restauración directa, además de garantizarse una mayor duración y años de funcionalidad para cada una de las prótesis, coronas e implantes. La calidad de vida y satisfacción referidas por los pacientes portadores de piezas producidas con esta tecnología, es superior a las manifestadas por aquellos tratados con piezas de fabricación tradicional. El uso de técnicas de inteligencia artificial y biomateriales representará un cambio cualitativo y cuantitativo en el uso de los sistemas CAD/CAM.

CAD/CAM technology is an innovative way related to the implementation of digital techniques to improve prosthetic restorations in a patient, including those intended for dental aesthetics. The objective of this study is to describe the usefulness of CAD/CAM technology in the dental prostheses manufacture. A review of the medical literature available in the PubMed/Medline, Scopus and SciELO databases was carried out, using advanced search formulas; Articles in Spanish and English were selected. Currently, with this technology it has been possible to combine aesthetics, resistance and precision in direct restoration, in addition to guaranteeing greater duration and years of functionality for each of the prostheses, crowns and implants. The quality of life and satisfaction reported by patients wearing parts produced with this technology is higher than those reported by those treated with traditionally manufactured parts. The use of artificial intelligence and biomaterials techniques will represent a qualitative and quantitative change in the use of CAD/CAM systems.

Diseño de investigaciones: algoritmo de clasificación y características esenciales

Mientras que la investigación primaria implica la participación activa del propio investigador, la investigación secundaria consiste en la síntesis y el análisis de los resultados organizados y publicados por otros como investigaciones primarias. En Medicina, una investigación primaria busca llegar a una conclusión válida para mejorar la salud humana, utilizando el método científico. Por lo tanto, se requiere de una investigación bien diseñada, que se sostenga sobre la base sólida de una metodología detallada y regida por principios clínicos éticos. Esto es importante, puesto que en las Ciencias Médicas solo pueden extraerse conclusiones significativas a partir de los datos recogidos y los resultados obtenidos a través de un diseño científico adecuado. Por lo tanto, la selección de un diseño de investigación correcto es importante para responder, de manera imparcial y científica, a las preguntas que el investigador se ha planteado. En este artículo de revisión se presenta una propuesta de algoritmo de clasificación de los diseños de investigación primaria. Asimismo, se discuten los distintos tipos de diseño utilizados en investigación primaria médica, desde el paradigma cuantitativo. Se ilustran, con ejemplos, las características clave que hacen al concepto, aspectos metodológicos y ventajas y limitaciones, así como las posibilidades de uso de los distintos tipos de diseño. Conocer todo esto es crucial, puesto que la calidad, fiabilidad y posibilidad de publicar una investigación en Medicina dependen decisivamente de la selección de un diseño de investigación adecuado.

While primary research involves the active participation of the researcher, secondary research consists of the synthesis and analysis of results organized and published by others as primary research. In medicine, primary research has sought to reach a valid conclusion to improve human health using scientific methods. Therefore, primary research requires well-designed research that is sustained on a sound basis of detailed methodology and governed by ethical clinical principles. This is important, since in the Medical Sciences, meaningful conclusions can only be drawn from the data collected and the results obtained through an appropriate scientific design. Therefore, the selection of a correct research design is important to answer the questions posed by the researcher in an unbiased and scientific manner. In this review article, an algorithm for classifying primary research designs is presented. It also discusses the different types of designs used in primary medical research based on the quantitative paradigm. The key features of the concept, methodological aspects, advantages, and limitations, as well as the possibilities of using different designs, are illustrated with examples. This knowledge is crucial since the quality, reliability, and publishability of research in medicine depend decisively on the selection of an appropriate research design.