Calcium hydroxide associated with a new vehicle: Psidium cattleianum leaf extracts. Tissue response evaluation

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate edemogenic activity and subcutaneous inflammatory reaction induced by Psidium cattleianum leaf extracts associated with Ca(OH)2. Thirty male Wistar rats, split equally into three groups [aqueous extract + Ca(OH)2; ethanolic extract + Ca(OH)2; and propylene glycol + Ca(OH)2], were assessed every 3 h or 6 h (five animals in each period). Under general anesthesia, 0.2 mL of 1% Evans blue per 100 g of body weight was injected into the penile vein and each combination to be evaluated was subcutaneously injected into the dorsal region 30 min thereafter. Edemogenic activity was analyzed by spectrophotometry (λ=630 nm). For inflammatory reaction analysis, 50 rats received four polyethylene tubes (three experimental groups) and an empty tube (control group). The assessments were made at 7, 15, 30, 60, and 90 days, followed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and by the assignment of scores for evaluation of tissue response intensity. Ethanolic extract + Ca(OH)2 yielded the largest edemogenic activity at 3 h. Intergroup differences at 6 h were not significant. The histological analysis showed progressive repair over time (p<0.05) and aqueous and ethanolic extracts produced similar responses to those of the control and Ca(OH)2 + propylene glycol groups. Psidium cattleianum leaf extracts used as Ca(OH)2 vehicles evoked similar tissue response when compared to Ca(OH)2 associated with propylene glycol.

How Safe Are Our Children In Vehicles On The Road? A Malaysian Perspective

@#As Malaysia races towards a developed nation status, children are increasingly being ferried daily in vehicles almost exclusively as the majority of the population are able to afford private transportations. This paper reviews the current safety concerns for children whilst going in vehicles on Malaysian roads and the steps undertaken to address the need to enhance children’s safety whilst going in these vehicles and suggest possible remedial action to counter the possible lack of awareness for children’s safety whilst in these vehicles. This paper focuses on children on motorcycles and private vehicles (cars, vans and multi-purpose vehicle (MPV)) and excludes other form of transport (buses, lorries) as this paper tries to put forth measures that can be undertaken by the children’s parents and guardian to better enhance the safety of their children. A search was undertaken of all the major database of articles. Articles related to children’s safety systems, children related injuries, children related accident data, available laws and legislation were reviewed to present the need for greater awareness of children’s safety while going in vehicles in Malaysia. There are currently already safety legislations, measures, steps and equipments in place in ensuring the safety of children whilst going in vehicles on Malaysian roads. However, enforcement of laws in developing countries are not easy and we have to start at the root of the problem which is the parents and adults who ferry these children in vehicles. There is a pressing need to educate parents and adults alike on the urgent undertaking of child safety whilst in vehicles. Engineering countermeasures and intervention are probably needed to protect these vulnerable users. For vehicles, a device capable of providing some sort of protection to the child whilst riding pillion should be designed and developed. A legislation mandating the use of child seats whilst ensuring the child seats are affordable to the masses.

Exopolysaccharide dispelled by calcium hydroxide with volatile vehicles related to bactericidal effect for root canal medication

ABSTRACT Objective: Enterococcus faecalis is the dominant microbial species responsible for persistent apical periodontitis with ability to deeply penetrate into the dentin. Exopolysaccharides (EPS) contribute to the pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance of E. faecalis. Our aim was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide (CH), camphorated parachlorophenol (CMCP), and chlorhexidine (CHX) against E. faecalis in dentinal tubules. Material and Methods: Decoronated single-canal human teeth and semicylindrical dentin blocks were incubated with E. faecalis for 3 weeks. Samples were randomly assigned to six medication groups for 1 week (n=10 per group): CH + 40% glycerin-water solution (1:1, wt/vol); CMCP; 2% CHX; CH + CMCP (1:1, wt/vol); CH + CMCP (2:3, wt/vol); and saline. Bacterial samples were collected and assayed for colony-forming units. After dentin blocks were split longitudinally, confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to assess the proportion of viable bacteria and EPS production in dentin. Results: CMCP exhibited the best antimicrobial activity, while CH was the least sensitive against E. faecalis (p<0.05). CHX showed similar antimicrobial properties to CH + CMCP (1:1, wt/vol) (p>0.05). CH combined with CMCP inhibited EPS synthesis by E. faecalis, which sensitized biofilms to antibacterial substances. Moreover, increasing concentrations of CMCP decreased EPS matrix formation, which effectively sensitized biofilms to disinfection agents. Conclusion: The EPS matrix dispelled by CH paste with CMCP may be related to its bactericidal effect; the visualization and analysis of EPS formation and microbial colonization in dentin may be a useful approach to verify medicaments for antimicrobial therapy.

Antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide associated with anew vehicle (Triethanolamine) / Atividade antimicrobiana do hidróxido de cálcio associado à um novo veículo (Trietanolamina)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a capacidade antimicrobiana do hidróxido de cálcio associado à dois veículos convencionais (anestésico líquido e azeite de oliva) e um novo veículo (Trietanolamina). Material e Métodos: Inicialmente, os micro-organismos foram coletados de quatro incisivos superiores de um mesmo paciente que apresentavam tratamentos endodônticos insatisfatórios e periodontites apicais persistentes utilizando cones de papel absorvente esterilizados inseridos nos canais radiculares após a remoção do material obturador. Em seguida, estes foram cultivados em BHI durante 24 h e colocados em 10 placas de Petri com três orifícios preenchidos com as medicações avaliadas. Após 48 e 72 h, os halos de inibição foram aferidos. Resultados: Após aplicação do teste de Kruskal-Wallis com nível de significância de 1% (α = 0,01) foi observado que, hidróxido de cálcio associado à Trietanolamina, apresentou resultados semelhantes àqueles produzidos pelo líquido anestésico. Ambas as combinações foram superiores ao hidróxido de cálcio veiculado ao azeite de oliva. Conclusão: Considerando os resultados deste estudo in vitro, é possível concluir que Trietanolamina pode ser uma alternativa viável para ser utilizada como veículo associado ao hidróxido de cálcio.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness of calcium hydroxide associated with a two conventional (anesthetic liquidand olive oil) and a new vehicle (Triethanolamine). Material and methods: Initially, microorganisms were collected from four upper incisors presenting unsatisfactory root canal treatments and persistent apical periodontitis from the same patient using sterile absorbent paper cones placed inside the root canal following initial access and root filling removal. Next, they were grown in a BHI culturemedium for 24 h. Afterwards, they were placed in 10 Petri dishes with 3 holes, where different formulations of the medications studied were placed. After 48 and 72 h, readings were taken of the growth inhibition halos. Results: After using Kruskal-Wallis test with significance level of 1% (α = 0.01) it was observed that, calcium hydroxide associated with Triethanolamine, produced results similar to those produced by the anesthetic liquid. Both combinations were superior to the association with olive oil. Conclusion: Considering the results of this in vitrostudy, it is possible to consider that Triethanolamine can be a viable alternative to be used as a vehicleassociated with the calcium hydroxide.

Analysis of the reaction of subcutaneous tissues in rats and the antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide paste used in association with different substances

The aim of this study was to evaluate the subcutaneous tissue response in rats and the antimicrobial activity of intracanal calcium hydroxide dressings mixed with different substances against E. faecalis. Fifty four rats were divided into three experimental groups according to the vehicle in the calcium hydroxide treatment: 0.4% chlorohexidine in propylene glycol (PG),Casearia sylvestris Sw in PG and calcium hydroxide+PG (control group). The pastes were placed into polyethylene tubes and implanted into the subcutaneous tissue. After 7, 14 and 30 days, the samples were processed and histologically evaluated (hematoxylin and eosin). The tissue surface in contact with the material was analyzed, and the quantitative analysis determined the volume density occupied by the inflammatory infiltrate (giant cells, polymorphonuclear cells and mononuclear cells), fibroblasts, collagen fibers and blood vessels. For the antimicrobial analysis, 20 dentin blocks infected with E. faecalis were treated with calcium hydroxide pastes in different vehicles; 0.4% chlorhexidine in PG, PG, extract fromCasearia sylvestris Sw in PG and a positive control (infection and without medication) for 7 days. The efficiency of the pastes was evaluated by the live/dead technique and confocal microscopy. The results showed that 0.4% chlorhexidine induced a higher inflammatory response than the other groups. The Casearia sylvestris Sw extract showed satisfactory results in relation to the intensity of the inflammatory response. In the microbiological test, there were no statistical differences between the evaluated intracanal dressings and the percentage of bacterial viability was between 33 and 42%. The control group showed an 86% viability. Antimicrobial components such as chlorhexidine or Casearia sylvestris Sw did not improve the antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis in comparison to the calcium hydroxide+PG treatment. In addition, the incorporation of chlorhexidine in the calcium hydroxide paste promoted the highest inflammatory response.

Recent development of natural and reconstituted lipoprotein based nano drug delivery vehicles / 药学学报

Lipoproteins are biological lipids carriers. The natural and reconstituted lipoprotein based drug delivery systems have been extensively developed in recent years. This article reviews the development of natural and reconstituted low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein based vehicles in the antitumor area.

Antimicrobial and fluoride release capacity of orthodontic bonding materials

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and fluoride releasing capacity of 3 bonding materials. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty nine specimens with standardized surface smoothness and dimensions were prepared. The antimicrobial capacity of the materials against S. mutans, L. casei and C. albicans was evaluated by determining the percentage of growth inhibition of these microorganisms in an inoculated medium, obtained by optical density readouts on a spectrophotometer. The potential to interfere in microbial growth on the surface of the studied materials was observed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The fluoride release capacity in ultrapure water for 14 days was analyzed by means of ion chromatography. RESULTS: The PLUS group presented the highest percentage of microbial inhibition and the most contamination-free surface. The FUJI group presented the best fluoride release capacity. CONCLUSIONS: The TransbondTM Plus Color Change was the one that presented the best general behavior considering the evaluated aspects. .

Ex-vivo Effect of Intracanal Medications Based on Ozone and Calcium Hydroxide in Root Canals Contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis

This ex vivo study evaluated the antibacterial effect of intracanal medications in root canals contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis. Fifty single-rooted human teeth were contaminated with E. faecalis (ATCC 29212) and incubated at 37°C for 21 days. The specimens were randomly divided into 5 groups according to the intracanal medication used: OZ-PG: ozonized propylene glycol; CH/CPMC: calcium hydroxide/camphorated paramonochlorophenol; OZ-PG/CH ozonized PG/CH; PC: positive control group (no medication); and NC: negative control group (no contamination). The samples were collected after 7 days (post-medication) and 14 days (final). Bacterial growth was checked by counting the colony-forming units (CFU). OZ-PG and CH/CPMC reduced significantly the CFU counts compared with PC in the post-medication and final samples, with no statistically significant differences among them. On the other hand, OZ-PG/CH did not reduce significantly the number of bacteria compared with PC. In conclusion, among the evaluated medications OZ-PG and CH/CPMC were the most effective against E. faecalis.

Resumo Este estudo ex vivo avaliou o efeito antibacteriano de medicações intracanal em canais radiculares contaminados com Enterococcus faecalis. Cinquenta dentes humanos unirradiculares foram contaminados com E. faecalis (ATCC 29212) e incubados a 37°C durante 21 dias. Os espécimes foram aleatoriamente divididos em diferentes grupos de acordo com a medicação intracanal utilizada: PG-OZ: propilenoglicol ozonizado; HC/PMCC: hidróxido de cálcio/paramonoclorofenol canforado; PG-OZ/CH; CP: controle positivo (sem medicação); e CN: controle negativo (sem contaminação). As amostras foram coletadas após 7 dias (pós-medição) e 14 dias (final). O crescimento bacteriano foi verificado através da contagem das unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC). PG-OZ e HC/PMCC reduziram estatisticamente o número de bactérias quando comparados com o CP nas amostras pós-medição e final, sem diferenças estatísticas entre si. Por outro lado, PG-OZ/HC não reduziu significativamente o número de bactérias em comparação com o CP. Em conclusão, entre as medicações avaliadas, PG-OZ e HC/PMCC foram as mais eficazes contra E. faecalis. .

Road traffic fatalities in Oman from 1995 to 2009: evidence from police reports

Fatalities from road traffic crashes [RTCs] are a public health challenge for low- and middle-income countries, especially those experiencing epidemiological transition. This paper aims to describe demographics and trend analysis of fatalities of RTCs in Oman from 1995 to 2009. The RTC data from 1995 to 2009 were obtained from the published reports of the Royal Oman Police [ROP]. Data were extracted on the distribution of deaths by age, sex, nationality, mode of travel [driver, passenger, pedestrians], and type of vehicle [four- vs. two-wheelers]. Trend analyses were carried out using the Chi-square for the percentages of deaths and linear regression for rates. A total of 9,616 deaths from RTCs were reported from 1995 to 2009. Of 9,616 fatalities, 4,666 [48.5%] were aged 26-50 years, 7,927 [82.4%] were males, 7,215 [75.0%] were Omanis, and 2,278 [23.8%] were pedestrians. Overall, mortality increased by around 50% from 479 deaths during 1995 to 953 deaths during 2009. There was a significant increase in the proportion of deaths [P < 0.05] and death rates [P < 0.05] among individuals aged 26-50 years, males, Omani nationals, and drivers. The number and rate of RTC fatalities due to overspeeding was also increased [P < 0.05]. Fatalities due to RTCs in Oman are increasing, especially among those aged 26-50 years, males, drivers, and Omani nationals with over speeding as a major cause of road traffic fatalities. There is a need for more research in understanding the risk-taking behaviors of young drivers, and sociocultural factors, especially among Omani nationals to target interventions

Visual fitness of public vehicle drivers in southeast of Iran

Although visual impairment of drivers is a very important risk factor for car accident, a few published papers have explored this issue in Iran. This study aims to evaluate the visual fitness of public vehicle drivers in Kerman province, southeast of Iran. A total of 4,003 public vehicle drivers were examined by one ophthalmologist for visual fitness in Kerman province between January 2009 and June 2010. Data are presented as Mean +/- SD or percentage, and with 95% confidence intervals [CIs]. Pearson Chi-square and McNemmar tests along with crude odds ratio [OR] were used to compare vision deficit between groups. Almost 361 drivers [9.0%; 95% CI: 8.1-9.9] had insufficient vision to drive public vehicles before the refractive errors [RE] correction and this number, was reduced to 68 drivers [1.7%; 95% CI: 1.3-2.1] after the correction. A number of them including 200 drivers [5.0%; 95% CI: 4.3-5.7] had insufficient vision to drive personal vehicles before the correction and this was reduced to 30 thereafter [0.8%; 95% CI: 0.5-1.0]. We also found out that the vision status got worse with aging, and RE was the most prevalent cause of sight defects. It seems that visual fitness of public vehicle drivers is a point of real concerns which might somewhat explain the high rate of car accidents in Iran

Synergistic effect and mechanism of cineole and terpineol on in-vitro transdermal delivery of Huperzine A from microemulsions

The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence and the mechanisms of cineole and terpineol on the in-vitro transdermal delivery of huperzine A from microemulsions, and their potential synergistic effect on the permeation enhancement. The transdermal delivery of huperzine A from microemulsions with different concentrations of cineole and terpineol through the rat abdominal skin was determined by Franz-type diffusion cells. The partition coefficient of huperzine A between the full thickness skin and microemulsion was determined. Attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy [ATR-FTIR] was carried out to analyze the effects of cineole and terpineol on the biophysical properties of the stratum corneum [SC] and the mechanisms of permeation enhancement. These results indicated that cineole and terpineol could synergistically increase the transdermal delivery of huperzine A from microemulsions through increasing the partition and diffusion coefficients of huperzine A. ATR-FTIR studies further validated the synergistic effect and revealed that the enhancing mechanisms were due to increasing the disorderliness and fluidity of SC lipid alkyl chains, disrupting the structure of keratin in SC, and extracting SC lipids. In conclusion, cineole and terpineol, acting synergistically to enhance the transdermal delivery of huperzine A from microemulsions, might provide an alternative permeation enhancer combination for the transdermal delivery of huperzine A

Enhanced bioavailability of total paeony glycoside by self-microemulsifying drug delivery system / 药学学报

Total paeony glycoside (TPG) is extracted and purified from a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. It has many biological and pharmacological activities. However, there are few dosage forms of TPG in the market because of its low bioavailability. Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) is a vital tool in solving low bioavailability of poor absorption drugs. So the objective of this study is to develop a new TPG-SMEDDS for the oral delivery of poorly soluble TPG. Through the construction of pseudo-ternary phase diagrams, the optimum prescription was obtained, which consisted of 18.70% TPG, 16.27% ethyl oleate as oil, 43.34% Cremophor RH40 as surfactant and 21.73% Transcutol P as cosurfactant. The characterizations of TPG-SMEDDS including morphological characterization, droplet size, zeta-potential, emulsification time, and dissolution study of TPG-SMEDDS were evaluated. The results showed that TPG-SMEDDS is stable and its release rate is high in four different media (0.1 mol x L(-1) HCl, pH 6.8 PBS, pH 7.4 PBS, and water). The relative bioavailability of SMEDDS was dramatically enhanced in an average of 1.52-fold that of TPG-suspension. It is concluded that the bioavailability of TPG is enhanced greatly by SMEDDS.

In vitro evaluation of antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide with aqueous vehicles in dental treatment

The purpose of this study was to assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide associated with aqueous vehicles against aerobes and facultative anaerobic microorganisms commonly isolated from infected root canals. Experimental study. This study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology, University of Karachi from Sept. 2007 to March 2009. The microbial strains were evaluated against calcium hydroxide pastes prepared with calcium hydroxide powder mixed with aqueous vehicles. Antimicrobial activity of the vehicles was also evaluated. For such purpose agar diffusion and broth dilution method was used. The results showed that calcium hydroxide mixed with aqueous vehicles was inhibitory against all the microbial strain tested. Calcium hydroxide pastes also eliminated the Enterococcus faecalis [the most resistant organisms in infected root canals] effectively. The results are statistically significant when calcium hydroxide was mixed with aqueous vehicles [p<0.05]. We concluded from our study that aqueous vehicles play a very important role in eliminating the endodontic bacteria particularly enterococcus faecalis which is very challenging for the endodontists while treating the patient

Efeito da terapia fotodinâmica antimicrobiana sobre culturas planctônicas e biofilmes de bactérias e fungos utilizando curcumina e cloro-alumínio ftalocianina veiculada por nanoemulsões / Effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy against planktonic and biofilm cultures of bacteria and fungi mediated by curcumin and aluminum-chloride- phthalocyanine entrapped in nanoemulsions

Esta investigação teve os seguintes objetivos: 1. avaliar in vitro o efeito da Terapia Fotodinâmica (PDT) utilizando diferentes concentrações de curcumina e doses de luz LED na inativação de suspensões planctônicas de S. aureus resistente (MRSA) e susceptível à meticilina (MSSA) e a citotoxicidade dos parâmetros antimicrobianos dessa terapia em cultura celular de fibroblastos; 2. o efeito fotodinâmico da cloro-alumínio ftalocianina (ClAlFt) veiculada em nano-emulsão catiônica e aniônica e comparar com ClAlFt diluída em solvente orgânico na inativação da C. albicans quando em suspensão planctônica e organizados em biofilmes; 3. o efeito antimicrobiano da terapia fotodinâmica utilizando a cloroalumínio ftalocianina em sistema de nanoemulsão em culturas planctônicas e biofilmes de bactérias gram-positivas (MSSA e MRSA). No primeiro estudo, suspensões de MSSA e MRSA foram tratadas com diferentes concentrações de curcumina (entre 0,1 a 20,0 µM) e expostas a diferentes fluências de LED azul (18; 25 e 37,5 J/cm2 ). Em seguida, diluições seriadas foram obtidas e alíquotas de 25 µl de cada diluição foram plaqueadas em meio de cultura Mannitol Salt Agar. Após o período de incubação de 48 horas a 37°C, as unidades formadoras de colônias foram determinadas (UFC/mL). Para as células L929, essas foram incubadas por 20 minutos com curcumina e irradiadas em seguida com LED (37,5 J/cm2 ). A viabilidade celular após a PDT foi avaliada utilizando o teste de MTT e as alterações morfológicas foram avaliadas pela microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV). Os resultados foram submetidos à análise descritiva, Análise de Variância (ANOVA) e post hoc de Tukey (α= 5%). As concentrações de 5, 10 e 20 µM resultaram em completa inativação do MSSA quando associadas a qualquer fluência de energia avaliada. Entretanto, somente a concentração de 20 µM associadas a dose de luz de 37,5 J/cm2 resultou em completa inativação do MRSA. Essa associação resultou em 80% de redução dos fibroblastos. Além disso, alterações na morfologia celular foram observadas, indicando que a membrana citoplasmática foi o principal alvo dessa terapia. Os controles de luz e curcumina não causaram alterações significativas tanto na contagem de colônias quanto nos valores do metabolismo celular. No segundo estudo, suspensões de C. albicans foram tratadas com a cloro-alumúnio ftalocianina (ClAlFt) na concentração de 31,8 µM encapsulada em nanoemulsões (NE) de caráter catiônico e aniônico e a ClAlFt livre por 30 minutos no escuro. Em seguida, as amostras foram centrifugadas para remoção do fármaco e 300 µl de solução salina foi adicionado previamente à irradiação com LED (660 ± 3 nm; 50 e 100 J/cm2 ). Amostras controle negativo não foram expostas a ClAlFt nem luz. Para as soluções planctônicas, as colônias foram determinadas (UFC/mL) após 48 horas de incubação. Além disso, o metabolismo celular foi avaliado por meio do teste de XTT e a técnica de citometria de fluxo foi utilizada para avaliar danos a membrana celular. Para os biofilmes, a atividade metabólica foi avaliada pelo XTT e a distribuição da ClAlFt utilizando os diferentes veículos no interior dos biofilmes foi analisada por microscopia confocal. Os dados de CFU/mL e os valores de absorbância obtidos pelo teste de XTT foram analisados pelo Kruskal-Wallis e teste de comparações múltiplas dos postos médios. Já para a citometria de fluxo foi utilizado ANOVA um critério (α= 0,05%). A viabilidade fúngica foi dependente do veículo, da carga superficial e dose de luz. A ClAlFt livre inativou completamente o fungo quando associada a maior dose de luz. Já a NE catiônica causou redução significativa tanto de CFU/mL (~ 3,1 log) quanto do metabolismo celular em cerca de 92,3% quando comparada ao controle (p<0,05). Além disso, ambas as veiculações resultaram em danos a membrana citoplasmática significativos (p<0,05). Para os biofilmes, a NE catiônica resultou em redução de 70% do metabolismo. A FS aniônica não apresentou atividade antifúngica. As imagens obtidas pela microscopia confocal demonstraram diferentes padrões de acúmulo e intensidade de fluorescência no interior dos biofilmes para os diferentes sistemas de veiculação de fármacos avaliados. No estudo 3, suspensões e biofilmes de MSSA e MRSA foram tratados com a ClAlFt livre e com os sistemas de NE catiônico e aniônico contendo esse fármaco. Após o período de pré-incubação, o fármaco foi removido e a irradiação foi realizada por um sistema de LED (660 ± 3 nm). Para as suspensões planctônicas bacterianas, foi avaliado o número de unidade formadoras de colônias (UFC/mL) e o metabolismo celular pelo teste de XTT. Já para os biofilmes, foi avaliado o metabolismo pelo XTT. Assim como para o fungo, a eficiência da PDT foi dependente do veículo, carga superficial e dose de luz. A NE catiônica e a ClAlFt livre causaram completa inativação de ambas as cepas de S. aureus. Para os biofilmes, a NE catiônica reduziu em cerca de 80 e 73% o metabolismo celular da cepa susceptível e da resistente, respectivamente. A NE aniônica, apesar de reduzir em cerca de 4 log e 1 log o número de UFC/mL para o MSSA e MRSA, respectivamente, não causou redução do metabolismo dos biofilmes do MRSA mesmo quando associada a maior dose de luz avaliada. Esses resultados sugerem que a NE catiônica representa uma veiculação viável para inativação de fungos e bactérias, incluindo cepas resistentes aos tratamentos convencionais

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate: 1. the Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) mediated by curcumin for in vitro inactivation of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and its citotoxic effects against L929 fibroblasts; 2. the photodynamic potential of aluminum-chloride-phthalocyanine (ClAlPc) entrapped in cationic and anionic nanoemulsions (NE) to inactivate C. albicans planktonic and biofilm cultures compared with free ClAlPc; 3. the photodynamic effect of ClAlPc encapsulated in NE on methicillin susceptible and resistant S. aureus suspensions and biofilms. In the first study, suspensions of MSSA and MRSA were treated with different concentrations of curcumin and exposed to LED. Serial dilutions were obtained from each sample, and colony counts were quantified. For fibroblasts, the cell viability subsequent to the curcumin-mediated photodynamic therapy was evaluated using the MTT assay and morphological changes were assessed by SEM analysis. Curcumin concentrations ranging from 5.0 to 20.0 µM in combination with any tested LED fluences resulted in photokilling of MSSA. However, only the 20.0 µM concentration in combination with highest fluence resulted in photokilling of MRSA. This combination also promoted an 80% reduction in fibroblast cell metabolism and morphological changes were present, indicating that cell membrane was the main target of this phototherapy. In the second study, fungal suspensions were treated with different types of delivery systems containing ClAlPc. After 30 minutes, the drug was washed-out and samples were illuminated with LED source (660 ± 3 nm). Negative control samples were not exposed to ClAlPc or light. For planktonic suspensions, colonies were counted (CFU/ml) and cell metabolism was evaluated by XTT assay. (Kruskal-Wallis and Multiple Comparison test; α= 0.05%). Flow cytometry was used to evaluate damage to cell membrane. (One-way ANOVA; α= 0.05%). For biofilms, the metabolic activity was evaluated by means of XTT reduction assay and ClAlPc distribution using the different delivery systems through three-dimensional architecture of the biofilms were analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Fungal viability was dependent on the delivery system, superficial charge and light dose. Free ClAlPc caused photokilling of the yeast when combined with a higher light dose. Cationic NE-ClAlPc reduced significantly both CFU/mL (~3.1 log10) and cell metabolism (92.3%) compared with the negative control (p<0.05). In addition, cationic NE-ClAlPc and free-ClAlPc caused significant damage to the cell membrane (p<0.05). For the biofilms, cationic NE-ClAlPc reduced cell metabolism by 70%. Anionic NE-ClAlPc did not present antifungal activity. CLSM showed different accumulation and fluorescence intensities emissions on biofilm structure for the evaluated delivery systems. In the third study, suspensions and biofilms of MRSA and MSSA were treated with different delivery systems containing ClAlPc. After the preincubation period, the drug was washed-out and irradiation was performed with LED source (660 ± 3 nm). Negative control samples were not exposed to ClAlPc or light. For the suspensions, colonies were counted (CFU/mL). The metabolism of S. aureus suspensions and biofilms were evaluated by the XTT assay. The efficiency was dependent on the delivery system, superficial load and light dose. Cationic NEClAlPc and free-ClAlPc caused photokilling of the both strains of S.aureus. For biofilms, cationic NE-ClAlPc reduced cell metabolism by 80 and 73% of susceptible and resistant strains, respectively. Although anionic NE-ClAlPc caused a significant CFU/mL reduction for MSSA and MRSA, it was not capable of reducing MRSA biofilm metabolism. ClAlPc entrapped in cationic NE or in its free form combined with LED caused photokilling of both S. aureus strains evaluated and reduction of the metabolic activity of biofilms. This therapy may represent an alternative treatment for eradicating resistant strains

Prevenção e cuidados com a pele da criança e do recém-nascido / Children and newborn skin care and prevention

A pele do neonato é submetida a um progressivo processo de adaptação ao ambiente extrauterino, para o qual cuidados especiais se tornam necessários. A sua pele caracteriza-se por ser sensível, fina e frágil. A imaturidade da sua barreira epidérmica diminui significativamente a defesa contra a excessiva proliferação microbiana, torna a pele mais susceptível ao trauma e à toxicidade por absorção percutânea de drogas. Devido às características próprias da pele do recém-nascido (RN), de lactentes e de crianças, o uso dos produtos cosméticos destinados à sua higiene e proteção requer um cuidado especial. Com o intuito de preservar a integridade da pele neonatal e infantil, este artigo revisou os cuidados preventivos básicos que se devem ter com a pele dos bebês quanto à higiene, ao banho, ao uso de agentes de limpeza, a produtos tópicos e a sua toxicidade percutânea.

Neonatal skin suffers a progressive adaptation to the extrauterine environment and special care is needed during this period. This skin is very sensitive, thin and fragile. Immaturity of the epidermal barrier reduces the defense against the excessive proliferation of microbes and makes the skin more vulnerable to trauma and percutaneous drug toxicity. Because of the peculiar characteristics of newborn, infant and children's skin, the use of cosmetic products designed for hygiene and protection requires caution. In order to preserve the integrity of neonatal and child's skin, this article reviewed basic preventive care practices in relation to hygiene, bathing, cleansing agents, topical products and their percutaneous toxicity.

Antimicrobial effectiveness of different preparations of calcium hydroxide.

Background: Intracanal medicaments have an antibacterial effect on the root canal flora. The effectiveness of such vehicles has to be tested and substantiated against the normal bacterial flora. The various vehicles that were tested for their effectiveness were commercially prepared calcium hydroxide (Metapex), saline, glycerine, CMCP, and Rexidine-M gel. The bacterial cultures tested for sensitivity were aerobes (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, Streptococcus pyogens, Enterococcus faecalis), anaerobes (Lactobacillus, Bacteroides melaninogenicus) and a commonly found fungus (Candida albicans). One hundred and twenty-five samples were divided into five experimental groups consisting of 21 samples each and one control group of the same size. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the influence of four different vehicles on the effectiveness of calcium hydroxide against the commonly found aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in endodontic infections. Materials and Methods: The samples were taken and transported using standardized techniques and pure growth of each bacterium was isolated. Petri dishes were prepared for the various calcium hydroxide combinations for each bacterium and incubated. The inhibition zone was recorded at three intervals of 24, 96and 168 hours. Results were tabulated and sent for statistical analysis. Results and Conclusions: It was seen that calcium hydroxide and CMCP combination showed the maximum zone of inhibition, and maximum inhibitory effect was seen at 24 hours. The bacteria most susceptible was found to be S. aureus and the least susceptible was E. faecalis. Further clinical studies are required to substantiate these results.

Lesion of the subthalamic nucleus reverses motor deficits but not death of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in a rat 6-hydroxydopamine-lesion model of Parkinson's disease

The objective of the present study was to determine whether lesion of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) promoted by N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) would rescue nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons after unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) injection into the medial forebrain bundle (MFB). Initially, 16 mg 6-OHDA (6-OHDA group) or vehicle (artificial cerebrospinal fluid - aCSF; Sham group) was infused into the right MFB of adult male Wistar rats. Fifteen days after surgery, the 6-OHDA and SHAM groups were randomly subdivided and received ipsilateral injection of either 60 mM NMDA or aCSF in the right STN. Additionally, a control group was not submitted to stereotaxic surgery. Five groups of rats were studied: 6-OHDA/NMDA, 6-OHDA/Sham, Sham/NMDA, Sham/Sham, and Control. Fourteen days after injection of 6-OHDA, rats were submitted to the rotational test induced by apomorphine (0.1 mg/kg, ip) and to the open-field test. The same tests were performed again 14 days after NMDA-induced lesion of the STN. The STN lesion reduced the contralateral turns induced by apomorphine and blocked the progression of motor impairment in the open-field test in 6-OHDA-treated rats. However, lesion of the STN did not prevent the reduction of striatal concentrations of dopamine and metabolites or the number of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons after 6-OHDA lesion. Therefore, STN lesion is able to reverse motor deficits after severe 6-OHDA-induced lesion of the nigrostriatal pathway, but does not protect or rescue dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta.

Transdermal delivery of haloperidol: i. effect of vehicles

The influence of vehicles on transdermal delivery of haloperidol from five different vehicles, propylene glycol [PG], water, Glycerin, Liquid Paraffin [LP] and polyethelene glycol 400 [PEG 400] was investigated. It was observed that the highest cumulative amount penetrated in 24 hours in presence of PG [506 microg] compared to the cumulative amount penetrated the skin from the other vehicles used. [113, 58, 24, and 13 microg for water, Glycerin, PEG 400 and LP respectively] indicate that PG could be a good and effective vehicle for transdermal delivery of haloperidol studies. This effect may be related to alteration of the barrier property of the stratum cornium and thermodynamic activity of the drug in the different vehicles. The solubility of haloperidol in these vehicles was also determined. In vitro Improved Franz diffusion cell and dorsal rabbit skin were utilized in the permeation study. Analysis of variance [ANOVA] indicates that, the differences in the cumulative amount obtained from different vehicles were significant p < 0.05. This result suggests that the mechanism of permeation of haloperidol is passive diffusion. In order to determine the parameters which control the diffusion of haloperidol across the excised rabbit skin from propylene glycol solution formulation, the formulation containing concentration of the drug [20mg/ml] was used to a chief a steady-state of diffusion which may be characterized by zero-order kinetic

Influência do veículo na eficácia da reposição de potássio em ratos hipocalêmicos / Vehicle influence on potassium replacement effectiveness in hypokalemic rats

INTRODUÇÃO: Pacientes após cirurgia cardíaca são comumente tratados com diuréticos para controle de volume plasmático. A preocupação de distúrbios hipocalêmicos em adultos antes, durante ou após a cirurgia já foi ressaltada anteriormente, visto o risco de arritmias cardíacas. Clinicamente, a diluição da solução de potássio (K+) para administração por via intravenosa, em situações que requerem a sua reposição é realizada utilizando-se soro fisiológico (SF) ao invés de soro glicosado 5 por cento (SG5 por cento), possivelmente em vista de poder ocorrer estimulação da secreção de insulina, que interferiria sobre a qualidade da reposição de K+. Porém, não está comprovado experimentalmente se o SF e SG5 por cento poderiam realmente interferir na qualidade da reposição de potássio em ratos com hipocalemia. OBJETIVO: Analisar a influência da reposição de K+ diluído em diferentes veículos sobre as concentrações plasmáticas de K+([K+]p) em ratos submetidos a hipocalemia induzida por furosemida. MÉTODOS: Ratos Wistar adultos foram divididos em quatro grupos: K++SF, K++SG, SF e SG. Foi realizada a canulação da veia jugular para reposição e da veia femoral para coleta de sangue. O diurético furosemida na dose de 50mg/kg foi usado para induzir hipocalemia, foi analisado nível plasmático de potássio 24 h antes da injeção de furosemida, 24 h pós-indução e 30 minutos pós-reposição. RESULTADOS: Os níveis da [K+] pós-injeção de furosemida sofreram redução, comparado aos valores basais (pré-furosemida) em todos os grupos. Entretanto, os níveis [K+] retornaram aos valores basais tanto nos grupos que receberam K++SF ou K++SG, o que não foi observado nos grupos que receberam apenas SF e SG. Quanto ao Na+ plasmático, somente o grupo K+SF apresentou aumento após reposição. CONCLUSÃO: A reposição de K+ diluído tanto em SF quanto SG parece não afetar a qualidade da reposição de K+ plasmático em ratos

INTRODUCTION: Patients who undergo cardiac surgery are commonly treated with diuretic therapy for the management of volume overload. The concern of hypokalemia important in the adult population submitted to cardiac surgery has been described. Intravenous potassium (K+) replacement dilution is only recommended with sodium chloride 0.9 percent solution (SF0.9 percent), likely due to the putative effects of glucose solution 5 percent (SG5 percent) on insulin secretion, which influence K+ replacement quality. However, it is not yet experimentally proved the influence of SF0.9 percent and SG5 percent on K+ replacement quality. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of different vehicles of K+ replacement on blood K+ levels in furosemide hypokalemic rats. METHODS: Male Wistar rats divided into four groups: K+SF, K+SG, SF and SG. Jugular vein cannulation for K+ replacement and femoral vein cannulation for blood analysis. Furosemide (50mg/kg) to induce hypokalemia. We prepared the following solutions: vehicle 1.6mL (SF0.9 percent or SG5 percent) + 0.4 mL de K+ (19.1 percent) and for control groups only vehicle 2 mL. Furosemide (50 mg/kg) was used to induce hypokalaemia, it was analyzed potassium plasmatic levels 24 hours before furosemide injection, 24 hours after furosemide injection and 30 minutes after post-replacement. RESULTS: There was no significative difference in blood K+ levels before furosemide administration, after hypokalemic induction and after K+ replacement among all groups. Only SF+K presented blood Na+ levels increaseafter K+ replacement (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: K+ replacement in different vehicles did not affect blood K+ levels in rats

Comparative evaluation of the surface tension and the pH of calcium hydroxide mixed with five different vehicles: an in vitro study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the surface tension and pH of five different vehicles that are used as potential agents to mix calcium hydroxide in root canal treatments and to compare them with the final surface tension and pH of calcium hydroxide mixed with these vehicles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out in two phases. In Phase I, the surface tension and pH of five vehicles (distilled water, saline, anesthetic solution, chlorhexidine, and glycerin) were evaluated using a Du Nuoy Tensiometer and a pH Meter. In Phase II, a predetermined amount of calcium hydroxide was mixed with the individual vehicles and the surface tension and pH was determined. In each group, seven samples were evaluated. RESULTS: Among the individual vehicles, chlorhexidine had the least surface tension values (39.8+1.1 dynes/cm). Among the various calcium hydroxide mixtures, calcium hydroxide with chlorhexidine showed the least surface tension values (36.4+1.1 dynes/cm). All the vehicles showed an acidic pH ranging from 5 to 6.5. There was a significant increase in the pH values with the addition of calcium hydroxide to the respective vehicles. The calcium hydroxide mixtures had an alkaline pH ranging from 9 to 11.5; the highest pH was observed for calcium hydroxide mixed with distilled water and saline (11.5+0.2). CONCLUSION: The surface tension and pH of the vehicles directly influenced the surface tension and pH of the calcium hydroxide mixtures. Chlorhexidine was found to be a better vehicle for calcium hydroxide when used as an intracanal medicament.