Percepção e conhecimento de odontopediatras sobre o uso de coroas pré-fabricadas de aço e zircônia na reabilitação de dentes decíduos / Perception and knowledge of pediatric dentists about the use of prefabricated steel and zirconia crowns in the rehabilitation of deciduous teeth

Objetivo: O presente trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar o conhecimento dos odontopediatras e suas percepções, conhecendo as dificuldades que estes encontram frente ao desafio da reabilitação de dentes decíduos. Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada por meio da aplicação de questionários on-line e a análise estatística foi descritiva e comparativa, com tabelas de frequência para as variáveis quantitativas. O teste não paramétrico de Qui-quadrado foi utilizado para estimar a associação entre as diferentes categorias dos dados e em todo o estudo, estipulou-se o nível de significância em 5%. Resultados: Os resultados da pesquisa mostraram que a maioria dos entrevistados conhecem as coroas pré-fabricadas de aço, porém sua aplicação em atendimentos de crianças com extensas destruições coronárias limita-se a 34,1% destes profissionais, sendo que a baixa utilização se deve à dificuldade de aquisição do material e falta de habilidade técnica. Já com relação às coroas pré-fabricadas de zircônia, 82,4% das odontopediatras as conhecem, mas a grande maioria não as utiliza devido à dificuldade de aquisição, falta de habilidade técnica e o seu alto custo. Não foi encontrada associação entre a dificuldade de planejamento dos casos e a consideração estética e o âmbito de trabalho do entrevistado, bem como o fato de conhecer as coroas pré-fabricadas e utilizá-las. Conclusão: Conclui-se que os materiais reabilitadores, como coroas pré-fabricadas de aço e de zircônia, são de certa forma bem conhecidos pelos odontopediatras, mas sua utilização em reabilitação de dentes decíduos ainda é limitada.

Aim: The present study aims to evaluate the knowledge of pediatric dentists and their perceptions, knowing the difficulties they face in the challenge to rehabilitate deciduous teeth. Methods: This study was carried out through the application of online questionnaires. The statistical analysis was descriptive and comparative, with frequency tables for the quantitative variables. The non-parametric chi-square test was used to estimate the association between the different categories of data, and the significance level was set at 5%. Results:The survey results showed that most respondents know about prefabricated steel crowns, but their application in the care of children with extensive coronary destruction is limited to 34.1% of these professionals. The low use is due to the difficulty of acquiring the material and the lack of technical skills. It was found that 82.4% of the pediatric dentists have knowledge about prefabricated zirconia crowns, but the vast majority do not use them due to the difficulty of acquisition, their lack of technical skills, and the product's high cost. No association was found between the difficulty of planning the cases and the esthetic consideration and sphere of work of the interviewee, nor regarding the fact of their having knowledge about the prefabricated crowns and using them. Conclusion: It can therefore be concluded that rehabilitation materials, such as prefabricated steel and zirconia crowns, are well-known by pediatric dentists, but their use in the rehabilitation of deciduous teeth is still limited.

CO2 laser irradiation for debonding ceramic orthodontic brackets.

This study evaluated shear bond strength (SBS), adhesive remnant index (ARI) and fracture mode of chemically and mechanically retained ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser. The null hypothesis was that ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser would have similar SBS values. Ninety human premolars were divided into four experimental groups according to the combination of type of composite resin (Transbond XT and Z 250) and type of ceramic bracket (Fascination and Mystique), and two control groups (n=15). In the four experimental groups, the brackets were irradiated with CO2 laser at 10 W for 3 seconds before SBS testing. Enamel surface ARI was calculated after debonding under electron microscopy scanning. ANOVA and the Mann-Whitney test were used for statistical analysis. The laser groups had lower SBS values than the non-irradiated groups (control) (p<0.05). The mechanically retained brackets (Mystique) had the higher (p<0.05) and Z250 had the lower SBS values after CO2 laser irradiation. The groups bonded with Z250 had the highest ARI. Adhesive fractures were the most prevalent. The null hypothesis was rejected. CO2 laser decreased SBS efficiently and facilitated debonding of mechanically and chemically retained ceramic brackets.

Interferon-lambda 3 and 4 Polymorphisms Increase Sustained Virological Responses and Regulate Innate Immunity in Antiviral Therapy With Pegylated Interferon-Alpha.

Sustained virologic response (SVR) in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treatment denotes that the host genetics controls the immune response and unequivocally contribute to viral clearance or disease severity. In this context, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the locus of interferon lambda 3 and 4 genes (IFNL3/4) have been important genetic markers of responsiveness to CHC as prognostic markers for the pegylated-Interferon-alpha/ribavirin (Peg-IFN-α/RBV). Here, we analyzed 12 SNPs at the IFNL3/4 region in 740 treatment-naïve patients with CHC infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1, 2, or 3 treated with Peg-IFN-α/RBV. Individually, rs12979860-CC, rs8109886-CC, or rs8099917-TT were predictive markers of SVR, while rs12979860-CC demonstrated the stronger effect. Besides, the genotypic combination of these three predictors' genotypes, CC/CC/TT, increased the rate of SVR. Serum levels of cytokines and gene expression analysis on the genes IFNL3, IFNL4, IFNA1, and some of the IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) were measured in a subgroup of 24 treated patients and 24 healthy volunteers. An antagonist effect was highlighted between the expression of IFNL3/4 and IFNA1 mRNA among patients. Besides, a prominent production of the pro-inflammatory chemokines CCL4 and CXCL10 was observed at a 12-week treatment follow-up. Lower serum levels of these chemokines were detected in patients with an rs12979860-CC genotype associated with the better treatment outcome. Also, lower expression levels of the IFI6, IFI16, IRF9 genes were observed among rs12979860-CC individuals. In conclusion, a combination of the genotypes at the IFNL3/4 locus can act as a better marker for the prognosis for virological responses in an admixed Brazilian population presenting the modulating effect over innate immunity and inflammation that are controlling the outcome of the viral infection, but also other infectious diseases. This study is registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov platform (accession number NCT01889849 and NCT01623336).

CO2 laser irradiation for debonding ceramic orthodontic brackets

Abstract This study evaluated shear bond strength (SBS), adhesive remnant index (ARI) and fracture mode of chemically and mechanically retained ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser. The null hypothesis was that ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser would have similar SBS values. Ninety human premolars were divided into four experimental groups according to the combination of type of composite resin (Transbond XT and Z 250) and type of ceramic bracket (Fascination and Mystique), and two control groups (n=15). In the four experimental groups, the brackets were irradiated with CO2 laser at 10 W for 3 seconds before SBS testing. Enamel surface ARI was calculated after debonding under electron microscopy scanning. ANOVA and the Mann-Whitney test were used for statistical analysis. The laser groups had lower SBS values than the non-irradiated groups (control) (p<0.05). The mechanically retained brackets (Mystique) had the higher (p<0.05) and Z250 had the lower SBS values after CO2 laser irradiation. The groups bonded with Z250 had the highest ARI. Adhesive fractures were the most prevalent. The null hypothesis was rejected. CO2 laser decreased SBS efficiently and facilitated debonding of mechanically and chemically retained ceramic brackets.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a resistência de união ao cisalhamento da colagem (RCC), o índice de remanescente de adesivo (IRA) e o modo de fratura de bráquetes cerâmicos com retenção química e mecânica colados com diferentes compositos e irradiados com laser de CO2. A hipótese nula testada foi que bráquetes colados com diferentes compósitos e irradiados com laser de CO2 apresentam valores semelhantes de RCC. Noventa pré-molares humanos foram divididos em 6 grupos (n=15): 2 controles e 4 experimentais que se diferenciaram pelo tipo de bráquete ceramic (Fascination and Mystique) e pelo compósito de fixação (Transbond XT e Z 250). Nos quatro grupos experimentais, os bráquetes foram irradiados com laser de CO2 com 10W por 3 segundos anteriormente ao teste de RCC. O IRA das superficies de esmalte foram avaliados após a descolagem e submetidos a análise em microscopia electrônica de varredura (MEV). Para análise estatística foram utilizados ANOVA e o teste de mann-Whitney. Os grupos laser mostraram valores de RCC menores que os grupos não irradiados (controles) (p<0.05). Os bráquetes com retenção mecânica (Mystique) mostraram alta RCC (p<0.05) e o compósito Z 250 obteve os mais baixos valores de RCC após irradiação com laser. Os grupos colados com o compósito Z 250 apresentaram os mais altos escores do IRA. O modo de fratura mais prevalente foi a adesiva. A hipótese nula foi rejeitada. O laser de CO2 foi eficaz para diminuir os valores de RCC e facilitou a descolagem dos bráquetes cerâmicos de retenção química e mecânica

Activation of an Effective Immune Response after Yellow Fever Vaccination Is Associated with the Genetic Background and Early Response of IFN-γ and CLEC5A.

The yellow fever vaccine (YF17DD) is highly effective with a single injection conferring protection for at least 10 years. The YF17DD induces polyvalent responses, with a TH1/TH2 CD4+ profile, robust T CD8+ responses, and synthesis of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), culminating in high titers of neutralizing antibodies. Furthermore, C-type lectin domain containing 5A (CLEC5A) has been implicated in innate outcomes in other flaviviral infections. Here, we conducted a follow-up study in volunteers immunized with YF17DD, investigating the humoral response, cellular phenotypes, gene expression, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IFNG and CLEC5A, to clarify the role of these factors in early response after vaccination. Activation of CLEC5A+ monocytes occurred five days after vaccination (DAV). Following, seven DAV data showed activation of CD4+ and CD8+T cells together with early positive correlations between type II IFN and genes of innate antiviral response (STAT1, STAT2, IRF7, IRF9, OAS1, and RNASEL) as well as antibody levels. Furthermore, individuals with genotypes rs2430561 AT/AA, rs2069718 AG/AA (IFNG), and rs13237944 AC/AA (CLEC5A), exhibited higher expression of IFNG and CLEC5A, respectively. Together, we demonstrated that early IFN-γ and CLEC5A responses, associated with rs2430561, rs2069718, and rs13237944 genotypes, may be key mechanisms in the long-lasting immunity elicited by YF17DD.

Evaluation of photobiomodulation therapy to accelerate bone formation in the mid palatal suture after rapid palatal expansion: a randomized clinical trial.

To evaluate the efficiency of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in the midpalatal suture (MPS) and pain sensation in patients undergoing rapid palatal expansion (RPE). Thirty-four individuals with the diagnosis of skeletal maxillary hypoplasia were divided in two groups: laser (n = 18) and control (n = 16). Treatment plan consisted of the use of the Hyrax expander in all patients. Subjects in the laser group were irradiated with diode laser (980 nm, 0.3 W) in six spots bilaterally distributed along the MPS for 10 s during the active phase of treatment and after overcorrection (passive phase of RPE). Control group received sham irradiations with the laser in standby mode to characterize the placebo effect. Digital occlusal radiographs were performed at different time-points for bone formation evaluation in both groups. The effects of laser irradiation on pain were assessed by the visual analog scale (Wong-Baker Faces Pain Scale). Bone formation between groups was not significantly different (p = 0.2273). At 3 months, bone formation was not yet complete in both groups. Pain sensation was similar between groups (p = 0.3940). However, pain was significantly higher for the first 7 days of treatment compared with the 14th day. PBMT did not accelerate bone regeneration in the MPS and pain sensation was similar.

Quality of life of patients with lower limb amputation with prostheses / Qualidade de vida em pacientes com amputação de membros inferiores e em uso de próteses

Quality of life is often acknowledged as an important outcome of rehabilitation programs for people with amputation. Despite the importance of the subject, the number of studies focusing on the multiplicity of factors influencing this matter is still limited. These assessments are increasingly needed to demonstrate changes related to intervention over time. In order to evaluate the quality of life of patients with lower limb amputation and wearing prostheses, a study was conducted with 49 patients followed in a rehabilitation hospital in the Midwest region of Brazil. A generic instrument (Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey) for quality of life assessment and Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scale-Revised that is specific for people with amputation were used in addition to a functional assessment measure. The results showed that the time since amputation, male gender and below-knee amputations were predictors of a better perception of quality of life and better adjustment to amputation.

Qualidade de vida é frequentemente reconhecida como um importante resultado de programas de reabilitação em pessoas com amputação. Apesar da importância do tema, o número de estudos centrados na multiplicidade de fatores que a influenciam ainda é restrito. Contudo, essas avaliações são cada vez mais necessárias para demonstrar mudanças relacionadas à intervenção ao longo do tempo. Com objetivo de avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes com amputação de membros inferiores e que fazem uso de próteses, realizou-se uma pesquisa com 49 pacientes acompanhados em um hospital de reabilitação, na Região Centro-Oeste, Brasil. Foram utilizados um instrumento genérico (Questionário Genérico de Avaliação de Qualidade de Vida) para avaliação de qualidade de vida, a Escala Trinity sobre a Experiência a Amputação e uso de Prótese-Versão revisada, que é específico para pessoas com amputação, e uma medida de avaliação funcional. Os resultados evidenciaram que o tempo desde a amputação, o fato de pertencer ao sexo masculino e as amputações abaixo do joelho foram fatores preditores de uma melhor percepção de qualidade de vida e de um melhor ajustamento à amputação.

Inherited IFNAR1 deficiency in otherwise healthy patients with adverse reaction to measles and yellow fever live vaccines.

Vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and yellow fever (YF) with live attenuated viruses can rarely cause life-threatening disease. Severe illness by MMR vaccines can be caused by inborn errors of type I and/or III interferon (IFN) immunity (mutations in IFNAR2, STAT1, or STAT2). Adverse reactions to the YF vaccine have remained unexplained. We report two otherwise healthy patients, a 9-yr-old boy in Iran with severe measles vaccine disease at 1 yr and a 14-yr-old girl in Brazil with viscerotropic disease caused by the YF vaccine at 12 yr. The Iranian patient is homozygous and the Brazilian patient compound heterozygous for loss-of-function IFNAR1 variations. Patient-derived fibroblasts are susceptible to viruses, including the YF and measles virus vaccine strains, in the absence or presence of exogenous type I IFN. The patients' fibroblast phenotypes are rescued with WT IFNAR1 Autosomal recessive, complete IFNAR1 deficiency can result in life-threatening complications of vaccination with live attenuated measles and YF viruses in previously healthy individuals.

Different aspects of platelet evaluation in dengue: Measurement of circulating mediators, ability to interact with the virus, the degree of activation and quantification of intraplatelet protein content.

Platelets play a role in hemostasis, coagulation, angiogenesis, inflammation and immune response is one of the most affected cells in dengue. Here we describe some aspects of platelets by observing their specific circulating mediators, the ability to interact with the virus and morphological consequences of this interaction, activation markers and intraplatelet protein contents in dengue. We conducted this study using dengue-patients as well as healthy donors. Immunoenzymatic assay, flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy and intraplatelet proteins expression assays were carried out. Briefly, we found an increase in sCD62L, NO or TBX2 ratio in platelet count, mostly in patients with the worse clinical outcome. After in vitro DENV infection or during natural infection, platelets underwent morphological alteration with increased expression of platelet activation markers, particularly in natural infections. Analysis of intraplatelet protein contents revealed different angiogenic and inflammatory profiles, maintaining or not extracellular matrix integrity between DF and DFWS patients. Thus, platelets are frequently affected by dengue, either by altering their own functionality, as "carrier" of the virus, or as an antiviral and mediator-secreting effector cell. Thus, strategies aimed at recovering platelet amounts in dengue seem to be essential for a better clinical outcome of the patients.

Adaptação transcultural da Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scales: revised (TAPES-R): avaliação dos processos psicossociais envolvidos no ajuste à amputação e à prótese / Transcultural adaptation of the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scales: revised (TAPES-R): evaluation of psychosocial processes involved in adjustment to amputation and prosthesis

A literatura aponta ausência de instrumentos específicos para avaliação clínica e pesquisa direcionada a pessoas com amputação, sendo a escala TAPES-R relevante para análise dos aspectos psicossociais nessa população. Esta escala foi desenvolvida para avaliar os processos envolvidos na adaptação à amputação de membros inferiores e à prótese. Este instrumento abrange 33 itens organizados em três domínios - ajustamento psicossocial, restrição de atividade e satisfação com prótese, além de questões relacionadas com a dor do membro fantasma e do membro residual. Objetivo: Realizar adaptação transcultural da escala TAPES-R para aplicação na população brasileira. Método: A adaptação transcultural foi realizada em cinco etapas: tradução, tradução reversa, síntese das avaliações, avaliação por comitê de especialistas e teste final na população. Foi realizada a comparação entre as versões original e traduzida em relação às equivalências semântica, idiomática, cultural e conceitual. A versão final foi aplicada em 116 sujeitos amputados de membros inferiores. Resultados: Houve clareza quanto à compreensão do instrumento pelos participantes, indicando que o mesmo esteja apropriado à realidade do público-alvo na população brasileira. Amputação acima de joelho e tempo de uso da prótese abaixo de 10 horas/dia estão associados a pior ajustamento e menor satisfação com a prótese. Conclusão: O uso da escala TAPES-R permitiu avaliar a percepção dos indivíduos acerca da experiência com a amputação e prótese, possibilitando o uso clínico para avaliação de resultados voltados para a reabilitação de pacientes com amputação de membro inferiores. Serão desenvolvidos novos estudos para a continuidade de validação do instrumento.

The literature indicates the absence of specific instruments for clinical evaluation and research directed at people with amputation, with the TAPES-R scale being relevant for the analysis of psychosocial aspects in this population. This scale was developed to evaluate the processes involved in adapting to lower limb amputation and to the prosthesis. This instrument covers 33 items organized in three domains - psychosocial adjustment, activity restriction and prosthesis satisfaction, as well as issues related to phantom limb and residual limb pain. Objective: To perform transcultural adaptation of the TAPES-R scale for application in the Brazilian population. Method: Transcultural adaptation was carried out in five stages: translation, reverse translation, synthesis of the evaluations, evaluation by expert committee and final test in the population. The comparison between the original and translated versions was performed in relation to the semantic, idiomatic, cultural and conceptual equivalences. The final version was applied to 116 amputees of the lower limbs. Results: There was clarity regarding participants' understanding of the instrument, indicating that it is appropriate to the reality of the target audience in the Brazilian population. Amputation above the knee and time of use of the prosthesis below 10 hours / day are associated with worse fit and less satisfaction with the prosthesis. Conclusion: The use of the TAPES-R scale allowed the evaluation of the individuals' perception about the experience with the amputation and prosthesis, allowing the clinical use to evaluate the results for the rehabilitation of patients with lower limb amputation. Further studies will be developed for the continued validation of the instrument.

Pharmacokinetics comparison of two pegylated interferon alfa formulations in healthy volunteers.

BACKGROUND: Several countries have used pegylation technology to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of essential drugs. Recently, a novel interferon alfa-2b protein conjugated to four-branched 12 kDa polyethylene glycol molecules was developed jointly between Cuba and Brazil. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetic properties of BIP48 (pegylated interferon alfa-2b from Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz, Brazil) to those of PEGASYS® (commercially available pegylated interferon alfa-2a from Roche Pharmaceutical). METHODS: This phase I, single-centre, randomized, double-blind crossover trial enrolled 31 healthy male volunteers aged 19 to 35 who were allocated to two stages, either side of a 5-week wash-out period, with each arm lasting 14 consecutive days after subcutaneous administration of 180 µg of one formulation or the other (study or comparator). The main outcome variable was serum pegylated interferon concentrations in 15 samples collected during the course of the study and tested using an enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS: There were no differences between formulations in terms of magnitude or absorption parameters. Analysis of time parameters revealed that BIP48 remained in the body significantly longer than PEGASYS® (Tmax: 73 vs. 54 h [p = 0.0010]; MRT: 133 vs. 115 h [p = 0.0324]; ke: 0.011 vs. 0.013 h(-1) [p = 0.0153]; t1/2: 192 vs. 108 h [p = 0.0218]). CONCLUSION: BIP48 showed the expected pharmacokinetic profile for a pegylated product with a branched molecular structure. Compared to PEGASYS®, the magnitude absorption was similar, but time parameters were consistent with slower elimination. Further studies should be conducted to evaluate the clinical implications of these findings. A phase II-III repeated-dose clinical trial is ongoing to study these findings in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov platform (accession number NCT01889849 ). This trial was retrospectively registered in June 2013.

Kinetoplastid Membrane Protein-11 as a Vaccine Candidate and a Virulence Factor in Leishmania.

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11), a protein present in all kinetoplastid protozoa, is considered a potential candidate for a leishmaniasis vaccine. In Leishmania amazonensis, KMP-11 is expressed in promastigotes and amastigotes. In both stages, the protein was found in association with membrane structures at the cell surface, flagellar pocket, and intracellular vesicles. More importantly, its surface expression is higher in amastigotes than in promastigotes and increases during metacyclogenesis. The increased expression of KMP-11 in metacyclic promastigotes, and especially in amastigotes, indicates a role for this molecule in the parasite relationship with the mammalian host. In this connection, we have shown that addition of KMP-11 exacerbates L. amazonensis infection in peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice by increasing interleukin (IL)-10 secretion and arginase activity while reducing nitric oxide production. The doses of KMP-11, the IL-10 levels, and the intracellular amastigote loads were strongly, positively, and significantly correlated. The increase in parasite load induced by KMP-11 was inhibited by anti-KMP-11 or anti-IL-10-neutralizing antibodies, but not by isotype controls. The neutralizing antibodies, but not the isotype controls, were also able to significantly decrease the parasite load in macrophages cultured without the addition of KMP-11, demonstrating that KMP-11-induced exacerbation of the infection is not dependent on the addition of exogenous KMP-11 and that the protein naturally expressed by the parasite is able to promote it. All these data indicate that KMP-11 acts as a virulence factor in L. amazonensis infection.

An inactivated yellow fever 17DD vaccine cultivated in Vero cell cultures.

Yellow fever is an acute infectious disease caused by prototype virus of the genus Flavivirus. It is endemic in Africa and South America where it represents a serious public health problem causing epidemics of hemorrhagic fever with mortality rates ranging from 20% to 50%. There is no available antiviral therapy and vaccination is the primary method of disease control. Although the attenuated vaccines for yellow fever show safety and efficacy it became necessary to develop a new yellow fever vaccine due to the occurrence of rare serious adverse events, which include visceral and neurotropic diseases. The new inactivated vaccine should be safer and effective as the existing attenuated one. In the present study, the immunogenicity of an inactivated 17DD vaccine in C57BL/6 mice was evaluated. The yellow fever virus was produced by cultivation of Vero cells in bioreactors, inactivated with ß-propiolactone, and adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide (alum). Mice were inoculated with inactivated 17DD vaccine containing alum adjuvant and followed by intracerebral challenge with 17DD virus. The results showed that animals receiving 3 doses of the inactivated vaccine (2 µg/dose) with alum adjuvant had neutralizing antibody titers above the cut-off of PRNT50 (Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test). In addition, animals immunized with inactivated vaccine showed survival rate of 100% after the challenge as well as animals immunized with commercial attenuated 17DD vaccine.

Comparative analysis of the intracerebral mouse protection test and serological method for potency assays of pertussis component in DTP vaccine

The aim of this study was to compare the PSPT standardized in-house as an alternative to MPT for potency assays of pertussis component. Statistical analyses have showed similar pertussis potency values when PSPT was compared to MPT. Significant correlation between the potency results obtained by in vivo and in vitro assays was also been observed. Results by PSPT have demonstrated reproducibility and accuracy for potency pertussis control and this approach has been considered promising for use at least during the steps of production.

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 exacerbates infection with Leishmania amazonensis in murine macrophages.

In Leishmania amazonensis, kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11) expression increases during meta-cyclogenesis and is higher in amastigotes than in promastigotes, suggesting a role for this protein in the infection of the mammalian host. We show that the addition of KMP-11 exacerbates L. amazonensis infection in peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice by increasing interleukin (IL)-10 secretion and arginase activity while reducing nitric oxide (NO) production. The doses of KMP-11, the IL-10 levels and the intracellular amastigote loads were strongly, positively and significantly correlated. The increase in parasite load induced by KMP-11 was inhibited by anti-KMP-11 or anti-IL-10 neutralising antibodies, but not by isotype controls. The neutralising antibodies, but not the isotype controls, were also able to significantly decrease the parasite load in macrophages cultured without the addition of KMP-11, demonstrating that KMP-11-induced exacerbation of the infection is not dependent on the addition of exogenous KMP-11 and that the protein naturally expressed by the parasite is able to promote it. In this study, the exacerbating effect of KMP-11 on macrophage infection with Leishmania is for the first time demonstrated, implicating it as a virulence factor in L. amazonensis. The stimulation of IL-10 production and arginase activity and the inhibition of NO synthesis are likely involved in this effect.

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 exacerbates infection with Leishmania amazonensis in murine macrophages

In Leishmania amazonensis, kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11) expression increases during metacyclogenesis and is higher in amastigotes than in promastigotes, suggesting a role for this protein in the infection of the mammalian host. We show that the addition of KMP-11 exacerbates L. amazonensis infection in peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice by increasing interleukin (IL)-10 secretion and arginase activity while reducing nitric oxide (NO) production. The doses of KMP-11, the IL-10 levels and the intracellular amastigote loads were strongly, positively and significantly correlated. The increase in parasite load induced by KMP-11 was inhibited by anti-KMP-11 or anti-IL-10 neutralising antibodies, but not by isotype controls. The neutralising antibodies, but not the isotype controls, were also able to significantly decrease the parasite load in macrophages cultured without the addition of KMP-11, demonstrating that KMP-11-induced exacerbation of the infection is not dependent on the addition of exogenous KMP-11 and that the protein naturally expressed by the parasite is able to promote it. In this study, the exacerbating effect of KMP-11 on macrophage infection with Leishmania is for the first time demonstrated, implicating it as a virulence factor in L. amazonensis. The stimulation of IL-10 production and arginase activity and the inhibition of NO synthesis are likely involved in this effect.

Comparative analysis of the intracerebral mouse protection test and serological method for potency assays of pertussis component in DTP vaccine.

The aim of this study was to compare the PSPT standardized in-house as an alternative to MPT for potency assays of pertussis component. Statistical analyses have showed similar pertussis potency values when PSPT was compared to MPT. Significant correlation between the potency results obtained by in vivo and in vitro assays was also been observed. Results by PSPT have demonstrated reproducibility and accuracy for potency pertussis control and this approach has been considered promising for use at least during the steps of production.

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 is present in promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania amazonensis and its surface expression increases during metacyclogenesis.

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11), a protein present in all kinetoplastid protozoa, is considered a potential candidate for a leishmaniasis vaccine. A suitable leishmaniasis vaccine candidate molecule must be expressed in amastigotes, the infective stage for mammals. However, the expression of KMP-11 in Leishmania amastigotes has been a subject of controversy. We evaluated the expression of this molecule in logarithmic and stationary growth phase promastigotes, as well as in amastigotes, of Leishmania amazonensis by immunoblotting, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry, using a monoclonal antibody against KMP-11. We found that KMP-11 is present in promastigotes and amastigotes. In both stages, the protein was found in association with membrane structures (at the cell surface, flagellar pocket and intracellular vesicles). More importantly, its surface expression is higher in amastigotes than in promastigotes and increases during metacyclogenesis. The increased expression of KMP-11 in metacyclic promastigotes, and especially in amastigotes, indicates a role for this molecule in the parasite relationship with the mammalian host. The presence of this molecule in amastigotes is consistent with the previously demonstrated immunoprotective capacity of vaccine prototypes based on the KMP-11-coding gene and the presence of humoral and cellular immune responses to KMP-11 in Leishmania-infected humans and animals.

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 is present in promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania amazonensis and its surface expression increases during metacyclogenesis

Kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11), a protein present in all kinetoplastid protozoa, is considered a potential candidate for a leishmaniasis vaccine. A suitable leishmaniasis vaccine candidate molecule must be expressed in amastigotes, the infective stage for mammals. However, the expression of KMP-11 in Leishmania amastigotes has been a subject of controversy. We evaluated the expression of this molecule in logarithmic and stationary growth phase promastigotes, as well as in amastigotes, of Leishmania amazonensis by immunoblotting, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry, using a monoclonal antibody against KMP-11. We found that KMP-11 is present in promastigotes and amastigotes. In both stages, the protein was found in association with membrane structures (at the cell surface, flagellar pocket and intracellular vesicles). More importantly, its surface expression is higher in amastigotes than in promastigotes and increases during metacyclogenesis. The increased expression of KMP-11 in metacyclic promastigotes, and especially in amastigotes, indicates a role for this molecule in the parasite relationship with the mammalian host. The presence of this molecule in amastigotes is consistent with the previously demonstrated immunoprotective capacity of vaccine prototypes based on the KMP-11-coding gene and the presence of humoral and cellular immune responses to KMP-11 in Leishmania-infected humans and animals.

Qualidade de vida e envelhecimento: questões específicas sobre osteoartrose / Calidad de vida y envejecimiento: cuestiones específicas acerca de osteoartrosis / Quality of life and aging: specific questions about osteoarthritis

Em decorrência do envelhecimento populacional, aumentam os casos de osteoartrose com indicação cirúrgica. Considerando-se o interesse do tema para a Psicologia da Reabilitação, desenvolveu-se, por meio do SF-36 e de entrevista, uma investigação visando avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes submetidos a artroplastia de quadril nas etapas pré-operatória e pós-operatória. Os resultados obtidos indicam que, antes da cirurgia, aspectos físicos, capacidade funcional e dor apresentam as menores médias, ao passo que estado geral de saúde e saúde mental apresentam as maiores médias dentre os domínios avaliados pelo SF-36. Após a operação, todos os domínios medidos apontam melhora significativa. Pacientes mais velhos expressam mais ganhos em capacidade funcional, quando comparados com pacientes mais jovens. As entrevistas revelam a percepção do paciente sobre seu sofrimento e suas limitações no desempenho das atividades diárias. Sugerem-se novos estudos, com amostras mais extensas e maior intervalo temporal de reabilitação.(AU)

In consequence of population aging, cases of osteoarthritis with surgical indication increase. Considering the interest of the subject for the Psychology of Rehabilitation, an inquiry was developed aiming at evaluating the quality of life in patients undergone into hip arthroplasty at pre-surgery and post-surgery phases through the SF-36 and interview. The results obtained indicate that, before surgery, physical aspects, functional capacity and pain present the smaller averages, while general state of health and mental health present the greater averages among the domains evaluated by the SF-36. After the operation, all the measured domains showed significant improvement. Older patients express more gains in functional capacity when compared to younger patients. The interviews reveal the patient's perception about his suffering and his limitations in the performance of daily activities. It suggests future studies with more extensive samples and a bigger time intermission of rehabilitation.(AU)

Como consecuencia del envejecimiento poblacional, aumentan los casos de osteoartrosis con indicación quirúrgica. Considerando el interés del tema para la Psicología de la Rehabilitación, se desarrolló una investigación visando evaluar la calidad de vida en pacientes sometidos a la artroplastia de cadera en las etapas pre-operatoria y post-operatoria por medio del SF-36 y entrevista. Los resultados obtenidos indican que, antes de la operación, aspectos físicos, capacidad funcional y dolor presentan los menores promedios, mientras que el estado general de salud y la salud mental presentan los mayores promedios entre los dominios evaluados por el SF-36. Tras la operación, todos los dominios medidos apuntan mejora significativa. Pacientes con más edad expresan mejorías en la capacidad funcional cuando comparados con pacientes más jóvenes. Las entrevistas revelan la percepción del paciente acerca de su sufrimiento y sus limitaciones en el desempeño de las actividades diarias. Se sugieren estudios futuros con muestras más extensas y mayor intervalo temporal de rehabilitación.(AU)