Nonclinical evaluation of a Vitis vinifera extract towards a novel antiaging cosmetic ingredient.

BACKGROUND: Skin aging is regulated by multiple physiological processes, such as oxidative stress. Natural products have been considered as a promising source of antioxidant compounds. As a result, few innovative products on the market based on natural products tackle additional underlying mechanisms of skin aging. AIMS: The present work reports the nonclinical evaluation of a novel extract from the skin of V. vinifera fruits (codified as ACH37 extract), with the aim of supporting its use as an antiaging cosmetic ingredient candidate in clinical trials. METHODS: We employed enzymatic, phenotypic, and gene expression assays, both in vitro and ex vivo, to investigate the action of the ACH37 extract in different biological processes that could be related to skin aging mechanisms. RESULTS: The ACH37 extract was able to scavenge reactive oxygen species (DPPH, O2 - ), prevent inflammation (LPS- and UV-induced COX-2, IL-1ß, and IL-8 expression), modulate extracellular matrix remodeling (inhibiting elastase, MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-12, as well as associated expression), increase telomere length, telomerase activity, and reverse the UV-induced suppression of genes involved in skin protection. In addition, the ACH37 extract permeated human skin explants and presented antioxidant efficacy ex vivo. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that the ACH37 extract acts on multiple targets commonly related to skin aging, being a promising antiaging active ingredient candidate to be further investigated in clinical trials.

Camellia sinensis, a natural product to support the treatment of medical and stomatological conditions / Camellia sinensis, un producto natural de apoyo al tratamiento de afecciones médicas y estomatológicas - revisión sistemática

Introduction: The tea plant, Camellia sinensis, is one of the most popular non-alcoholic beverages in the world. The main components of Camellia sinensis include amino acids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, flavins and purine alkaloids (xanthines). For this reason, in the field of medicine, Camellia sinensis has been used as an anticancer, anxiolytic, antidiabetic, antiobesity, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, chemopreventive, cytotoxic and apoptogenic, genoprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, hemato-protective, and in wound healing, among other uses. Objective: To carry out a systematic review of the use of C. sinensis as supportive therapy in the treatment of oral disorders. Materials and Methods: This systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines. The search was carried out in the PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google Academic databases. Articles from studies of Camellia sinensis were reviewed and those from a secondary source, such as literature review articles, were excluded Results: A total of 12 full-text articles were selected for review, in which the properties of Camellia sinensis are detailed. Conclusions: According to the bibliography reviewed, C. sinensis exhibits anticariogenic properties, applications in the treatment of dental erosion, applications in the treatment of gingivitis and bacterial plaque, and applications in the prevention of oral cancer; however, more controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety of use.

Introducción: La planta del té es una de las bebidas no alcohólicas más populares en todo el mundo. Entre los principales componentes de Camellia sinensis tenemos los aminoácidos, ácidos grasos, compuestos fenólicos, flavinas y alcaloides de purina (xantinas). Por ello en medicina, la Camellia sinensis se ha utilizado como anticancerígeno, ansiolítico, antidiabético, antiobesidad, antiinflamatorio, analgésico, antipirético, quimiopreventivo, citotóxico y apoptógeno, genoprotector, hepatoprotector, nefroprotector, hematoprotector, cicatrizantes de heridas, entre otros. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión sistemática del uso de C. sinensis como apoyo en el tratamiento de afecciones bucales. Materiales y Métodos: Esta revisión sistemática se llevó a cabo siguiendo los lineamientos PRISMA. La búsqueda se realizó en las bases de datos PubMed, Science Direct y Google Academic. Se revisaron los artículos de estudios de Camellia sinensis y se excluyeron aquellos de fuente secundaria, como los de revisión de la literatura. Resultados: Se seleccionaron un total de 12 artículos de texto completo para la revisión. En los que se detalla las propiedades de la Camellia sinensis. Conclusión: De acuerdo a la bibliografía revisada, la C. sinensis exhibió efecto anticariogénico, aplicación en el tratamiento de la erosión dental, aplicación en el tratamiento de gingivitis y placa bacteriana, y aplicación en la prevención del cáncer bucal, sin embargo, se necesitan realizar más ensayos clínicos controlados que confirmen su efectividad y seguridad de uso.

Applying sunscreen SPF 50 with high antioxidant capacity during fifteen days improves the dermis echogenicity and reduces the reddish skin undertone.

BACKGROUND: Of the many effects induced by UV radiation on the skin, erythema is one of the most well-known features, which is a cutaneous inflammatory reaction correlated with acute photodamage. The utilization of sunscreen may reduce this process. AIMS: To evaluate the utilization of a sunscreen SPF50 with high antioxidant capacity during 15 days by young men without photoprotection habits. METHODS: For this, we evaluated erythema, skin hydration properties, and dermis echogenicity using skin imaging techniques. Forty male participants (aged between 18 and 28 years old), 36 without previous photoprotection habits, were recruited, and the erythema was evaluated using a visual score and skin colorimeter. Macroscopic images (VivaCam®) were also obtained. Dermis echogenicity was evaluated using high-frequency ultrasonography. All the participants received a sunscreen SPF 50 to use for 15 days. RESULTS: The visual score presented a strong correlation (r = 0.8657) with the colorimeter results. Visually and using the biophysical methodologies was possible to observe the reduction of the visual erythema. The dermis echogenicity also improved, probably correlated with the acute inflammation reduction. No alterations were observed in the skin hydration and skin barrier parameters. CONCLUSIONS: The utilization of complementary and correlated different skin biophysical and imaging techniques in this study allows a better comprehension regarding the skin early photoaging process due the direct sun exposure. The utilization with a SPF 50 sunscreen with high antioxidant potential allows for a reduction in the erythema after 15 days of usage, a quick result, however, did not improved the skin barrier or SC hydration.

Psyllium (Plantago ovata Forsk) in frozen banana pulp: Influence on rheological, nutritional and sensory characteristics.

A frozen banana pulp with functional properties was developed and characterized in this work. For this, 0 g, 3 g, 5 g and 7 g of psyllium in 100 g of banana pulp were added. The use of this fiber in industrialized products can contribute to the nutritional enrichment of the products and provide functional benefits already acknowledged, such as lowering LDL cholesterol, lowering blood glucose, increasing satiety and relieving constipation. According to the World Health Organization, vegetable consumption should be increased, as it reduces the risk of chronic diseases. The main purpose of this work was to incorporate psyllium in frozen banana pulp to develop a healthy product. The samples were evaluated through chemical analyses, rheological properties and sensory testing with Check-All-That-Apply questions (CATA). The addition of psyllium had a significant effect not only on the viscosity but also on the sensory and nutritional properties of the frozen banana pulp. This study indicated that the production of frozen banana pulp with psyllium is viable, as it has desirable nutritional and sensory characteristics which can contribute to the maintenance of health.

Alegação de propriedades funcionais aumentam a aceitação de muesli de aveia por consumidores / Functional claim increases the acceptance of oat muesli by consumers

Introdução: Mueslis de aveia contêm betaglucanas, uma fibra solúvel com propriedades hipocolesterolêmicas e hipoglicêmicas. Os benefícios do muesli de aveia podem ser alegados em produtos para atrair potenciais consumidores. Objetivos: Este estudo avaliou a influência de uma alegação funcional na aceitação de um muesli de aveia. Além disso, avaliou-se o efeito da aveia do muesli sobre as percepções de saciedade e humor. Métodos: Formularam-se dois produtos: muesli de aveia e muesli de flocos de arroz (controle), para a realização do estudo. Para os testes sensoriais, o muesli de aveia foi apresentado com duas codificações: uma com alegação de alimento funcional e outra sem alegação. Aos consumidores (n=160) foram abordadas questões sobre gosto, interesse de consumo e benefício antes e depois da degustação do mueslis, utilizando escalas hedônicas. Para entender os efeitos do muesli na saciedade e humor, foi realizado um ensaio clínico com 9 mulheres adultas saudáveis (aproximadamente 22 anos). Um desenho cruzado foi usado, com um período de washout de uma semana entre as intervenções. Os indivíduos preencheram um questionário de humor e saciedade usando escalas analógicas visuais antes e após consumir o mueslis no café da manhã. Resultados: O muesli de aveia com alegação foi apontado como o produto mais benéfico entre as amostras (p<0,05), apresentando maiores escores para gosto e interesse de uso. O consumo de muesli de aveia não influenciou o humor e a saciedade dos participantes pois não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre as intervenções (p>0,05). Conclusão: A alegação funcional influenciou a aceitação dos benefícios do muesli de aveia para a saúde dos consumidores.

Background: Oats-based mueslis contain beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber known for its hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic properties. The claim of these health benefits, oat muesli products may attract potential consumers. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of a functional claim on consumers' acceptance and attitudes toward oat muesli. Additionally, the study evaluated the effects of muesli containing oats on satiety and mood perceptions. Methods: Two muesli products were formulated: one with oats and another with rice flakes (control) for sensory analysis. The oat muesli was presented with two codings (n=160): one with a functional food claim and another without the claim. Consumers were asked about their liking, interest in usage, and perceived benefits before and after tasting the mueslis using hedonic scales. Furthermore, a clinical trial was conducted with 9 healthy adult women subjects (average age 22 years) in a crossover design with a one-week washout period between interventions. The subjects completed a self-perceived mood and satiety questionnaire using visual analog scales (VAS) at Results: The oat muesli with the functional claim was perceived as the most beneficial product among the samples (p<0.05), receiving high scores for liking and interest in use. However, oat muesli consumption did not significantly influence participants' average mood and satiety during the trial (p>0.05), as no significant differences between interventions were found. Conclusion: The inclusion of a functional claim positively affected the acceptance of the health benefits associated with oat muesli.

Evaluating nutrition quality of packaged foods carrying claims and marketing techniques in Brazil using four nutrient profile models.

The present study aimed to evaluate the nutrient profile of packaged foods marketed in Brazil, giving insights into healthiness of the Brazilian supermarket packaged food environment, considering different food categories and levels of industrial food processing and presence of nutrition and health claims and marketing strategies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on the labels of pre-packed foods marketed in a home-shopping website. A stratified random sample (n = 335) was obtained to be analysed by four nutrient profile models: Food Standards Australia New Zealand's Nutrient Profiling Scoring Criterion, UK Nutrient Profile from the Food Standards Agency, Nutrient profile model from Pan American Health Organization, and Nutrition Score from Unilever Food & Health Research (Unilever). Overall, the models shown agreement, besides some differences in the levels of approval. Ultra-processed foods were less healthy. Pass rates for products carrying nutrition and/or health claims have evidenced the presence of these claims may be indicative of slightly better nutritional quality. This did not apply for products with and without marketing techniques. These findings highlight the need for improvement of the supermarket packaged food environment in scenarios like Brazil by increasing efforts to reformulate products to make them healthier, together with appropriate food labelling regulation.

Vaccinium myrtillus L. extract associated with octocrylene, bisoctrizole, and titanium dioxide: in vitro and in vivo tests to evaluate safety and efficacy.

OBJECTIVE: The harmful effects induced by ultraviolet exposition and the significant increment in skin cancer diagnosis confirm the necessity to develop effective and safe sunscreens. Limited efficacy and cutaneous adverse reactions of traditional formulations drove the incorporation of natural extracts into multifunctional sunscreens. Vaccinium myrtillus L. extract (VME), that contains anthocyanins and flavonoids, is a potential candidate for such systems. METHODS: Considering that, we performed in vitro and in vivo tests to evaluate the sun protection factor (SPF), photostability, and safety of sunscreen samples containing VME. RESULTS: As main results, the SPF was reduced in both in vitro and in vivo evaluation in the presence of VME; nonetheless, the samples were photostable and safe. CONCLUSION: Further investigation is required to better understand the unexpected effects of VME over photoprotection, decreasing the SPF value. As a conclusion, even with interesting findings, we highlight the importance of case-by-case investigations to develop multifunctional bioactive sunscreens.

Comparative sensory and instrumental analyses and principal components of commercial sunscreens.

BACKGROUND: The initial contact of consumers when choosing sunscreens is through the trademark, packaging, perfume, and tactile feeling of the product, outlining the popular practice of sensory science. AIMS: To describe the sensory and physical-mechanical profile of commercial sunscreens through sensory and instrumental analyses related to principal component analysis (PCA). METHODS: Seven commercial sunscreens available on the Brazilian market and with a solar protection factor (SPF) of 30 were evaluated. Physical-mechanical profiling (rheological and textural analyses) was conducted by a trained panel, followed by sensory profile characterization and descriptive analysis. The results were assessed using the Spearman correlation coefficient and PCA. RESULTS: The correlation or lack thereof of the instrumental parameters with most of the sensory aspects was demonstrated using the Spearman coefficient. PCA enabled us to identify the nature of the dissimilarities among the samples. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results highlight the importance of descriptive sensory analysis in the research and development of sunscreens, evidencing the significance of precisely informing the products' formulation in order to be chosen by the consumer.

Use of nutritional food labels and consumers confidence in label information / Uso da rotulagem nutricional e percepção sobre a confiabilidade das informações por consumidores

ABSTRACT Objective This investigation evaluated the use of food labels and consumers' perception of the reliability of food labels nutritional information. Methods This is a transversal exploratory quantitative investigation, carried out in Curitiba, Brazil. A total of 536 students from a public institution participated in the survey answering a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analyses, Chi-Square test and Fisher's exact test were performed considering a significance level of 5%. Results The participants' mean age was 21.11±2.83 years, and 59.3% were female. It was noticed that 41.6% of consumers used the nutritional information sometimes and 14.7% always, mainly because they liked to know what they were buying and consuming (35.8%). Lack of patience (29.5%) and concern about the composition of the food purchased (34.2%) were the main reasons for not using the information provided. The most commonly used nutrition claim was "trans fat-free" (42.5%) and the type of food in which nutrition labeling was used most was milk and dairy products (42.0%). Frequent use of nutritional information was higher among women (p<0.01) and among those who practice physical activity (p=0.04). Many individuals relied on food labels nutritional information (61.9%), but out of these, 43.6% did not use that information at the time of purchase. There was no difference between respondents' confidence in the information, sociodemographic and health data. Conclusion Many people still do not use the label nutrition information. Efforts should be made to change this scenario. Changes in nutrition labeling can help modify this situation, with the use of clearer label information, more easily understood, that does not raise any doubts in the consumers' mind.

RESUMO Objetivo Este estudo avaliou o uso da rotulagem nutricional e a percepção sobre a confiabilidade das informações por consumidores. Métodos Pesquisa transversal, exploratória e de abordagem quantitativa, realizada no município de Curitiba, Brasil. Participaram 536 estudantes, de uma instituição pública, respondendo um questionário estruturado. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, teste Qui-Quadrado e teste exato de Fisher, considerando nível de significância de 5%. Resultados A idade média dos participantes foi 21,11±2,83 anos, sendo 59,3% do sexo feminino. Quanto ao uso das informações nutricionais, 41,6% utilizavam às vezes e 14,7% sempre, principalmente porque gostavam de saber o que estavam comprando e consumindo (35,8%). A falta de paciência (29,5%) e de preocupação com a composição do alimento comprado (34,2%) foram os principais motivos pelos quais não utilizarem as informações. A alegação nutricional mais utilizada foi "sem gordura trans" (42,5%) e o tipo de alimento em que mais se utilizou a rotulagem nutricional foi leite e derivados (42,0%). O uso frequente das informações nutricionais foi maior entre as mulheres (p<0,01) e os praticantes de atividade física (p=0,04). Muitos indivíduos confiavam nas informações presentes nos rótulos dos alimentos (61,9%), porém, destes, 43,6% não as utilizavam no momento da compra. Não foram observadas diferenças entre a confiança das informações, os dados sociodemográficos ou de saúde dos entrevistados. Conclusão Muitas pessoas ainda não usam as informações nutricionais, sendo necessário esforços para mudar este panorama. Alterações na rotulagem nutricional podem mudar este processo, com o uso de informações mais claras, de fácil entendimento, que não gerem dúvida ao consumidor.

Application of biophysical and skin imaging techniques to evaluate the film-forming effect of cosmetic formulations.

OBJECTIVE: Products with film-forming effect, or 'second skin', which guarantees an immediate protective effect after application, is a highlight, especially when composed of natural ingredients. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the immediate film-forming effect on skin of a gel and emulsion formulations added with Kappaphycus alvarezii and Caesalpinia spinosa extracts through biophysical and skin imaging techniques, especially with the Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM). METHODS: The measurements were done in the forearm region before (baseline) and 1 h after of application of the developed formulation and its control. The parameters related to the stratum corneum water content, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), cutaneous microrelief and morphological and structural characteristics of the epidermis were analysed through the following biophysical and skin imaging techniques: Corneometer® CM 825, Tewameter® TM 300, Visioscan® VC98 and Vivascope® 1500, respectively. A sensorial analysis was also performed to study how the formulations were perceived on the skin. RESULTS: The obtained results showed that the active ingredient under study allows the film formation on the skin surface, leading to a reduction of TEWL and skin desquamation. The obtained images from RCM showed a reduction of furrows on the skin surface and a film formation after a single application of the formulations. However, these effects were more pronounced in the emulsion formulation, which suggests a synergistic effect of the active ingredient under study with the emollients of formulation composition. This result was also observed in the sensorial analysis, as both formulations added with the active substance were well evaluated. CONCLUSION: The presence of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Caesalpinia spinosa extracts in the studied cosmetic formulations, enabled a film formation on a skin surface, bringing benefits as a reduction of transepidermal water loss and skin desquamation, as well as a furrows reduction and an improvement of stratum corneum after 1 h of application. Finally, the skin imaging techniques can be suggested as an excellent tool to evaluate a film-forming effect of cosmetic formulations.

OBJECTIF: Les produits ayant un effet filmogène, ou « deuxième peau ¼ qui garantit un effet protecteur immédiat après l'application, sont un plus, notamment lorsqu'ils sont composés d'ingrédients naturels. L'objectif de cette étude visait ainsi à évaluer l'effet filmogène immédiat sur la peau de formulations avec gel et émulsion enrichies d'extraits de Kappaphycus alvarezii et de Caesalpinia spinosa grâce à des techniques d'imagerie cutanée et biophysique, en particulier par microscopie confocale par réflectance (MCR). MÉTHODES: Les mesures ont été effectuées dans la région de l'avant-bras avant (référence) et 1 h après l'application de la formulation développée et de son contrôle. Les paramètres liés à la teneur en eau de la couche cornée, perte d'eau transépidermique (Transepidermal Water Loss, TEWL), au microrelief cutané et aux caractéristiques structurelles et morphologiques de l'épiderme ont été analysés à l'aide des techniques d'imagerie cutanée et biophysique suivantes : Corneometer® CM 825, Tewameter® TM 300, Visioscan® VC98 et Vivascope® 1500, respectivement. Une analyse sensorielle a également été réalisée pour étudier comment les formulations étaient perçues sur la peau. RÉSULTATS: Les résultats obtenus ont montré que le principe actif étudié permet la formation d'un film à la surface de la peau, entraînant une réduction de la TEWL et de la desquamation de la peau. Les images obtenues par MCR ont montré une réduction des sillons à la surface de la peau et la formation d'un film après une seule application des formulations. Ces effets étaient toutefois davantage prononcés avec la formulation de type émulsion, ce qui suggère un effet synergique du principe actif étudié avec les émollients contenus dans la formulation. Ce résultat a également été observé dans l'analyse sensorielle, car les deux formulations enrichies en substance active ont été bien évaluées. CONCLUSION: La présence d'extraits de Kappaphycus alvarezii et de Caesalpinia spinosa dans les préparations cosmétiques étudiées a permis la formation d'un film à la surface de la peau, procurant des bénéfices sous forme d'une réduction de la perte d'eau transépidermique et de la desquamation de la peau, de même qu'une réduction des sillons et une amélioration de la couche cornée 1 h après l'application. Enfin, les techniques d'imagerie cutanée peuvent être proposées comme excellent outil d'évaluation de l'effet filmogène des préparations cosmétiques.

Evaluation of Some Ingredients and Energy Content on Front-of-Pack Cereal Bar Labeling as Drivers of Choice and Perception of Healthiness: A Case Study with Exercisers.

The objective of this study was to explore the drivers of choice and perceptions of healthiness that specific ingredient or energy content information displayed on the front-of-pack label of cereal bars triggers among different groups of consumers. The participants (18 to 50 years old), classified as exercisers (n = 103, 52 women) or nonexercisers (n = 101, 51 women), completed a questionnaire and then rated their interest using images of cereal bars that varied in four characteristics ("With fruit," "With chocolate," "High protein," and calorie content). Conjoint analysis showed that the most important motives were associated with the convenience, pleasure/indulgence and liking dimensions, which did not differ between groups. These were followed by two other motives introduced in this study: energy/physical activity and satiety, in which the exercisers showed a distinctively higher level of interest than the nonexercisers. Chocolate and a low calorie content were the outstanding drivers of interest, at similar levels for both groups. A high protein content claim increased the interest of all participants, but more so for exercisers and for men. Fruit had a low impact on interest, which was only significant for women. These results indicate that front-of-pack label information influences choice in a distinctive way for some targeted population groups. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study contributes knowledge about the impact that front-of-pack label information about certain ingredients and the energy content has on the motives and drivers for snack choices and perceptions of healthiness. The results contribute interesting results on the behavior of some consumer segments, in particular, exercisers and people involved in fitness activities, who are supposed to have special dietary needs.

Spectroscopy as a tool to evaluate hair damage and protection.

OBJECTIVE: Methods that can be used to analyse hair damage and to support a claim of hair protection are important for the cosmetic industry. There are many approaches available, but they are usually laborious and expensive. The researchers propose a simple fluorescence method that is based upon the emissive properties of damaged hair. METHODS: Hair fluorescence was observed when using both fluorimetry and microscopic procedures. The method was developed by comparing native hair with hair that was damaged by UVA and visible light. RESULTS: Spectroscopic properties (absorption and emission) of hair in the visible range are presented. The changes in the emissive properties of hair during irradiation were characterized and they were correlated with photobleaching, which is due to the generation of singlet oxygen. Emissions were also obtained in the hair shafts that had been previously treated with chamomile extract and this treatment was able to avoid hair bleaching. CONCLUSION: The emissive properties of hair in the visible range can be used as a tool for the evaluation of hair damage and protection. This method can be useful as a tool in order to claim substantiation.

Análise de tendência da sinistralidade e impacto na diminuição do número de operadoras de saúde suplementar no Brasil / Trend analysis of the claim rate and the impact on the reduction of the number of private healthcare providers in Brazil

Resumo Dados alarmantes vêm surgindo por parte das operadoras de saúde sobre o aumento da sinistralidade e seu potencial risco. Estudo descritivo, com o objetivo de compreender as mudanças ocorridas no setor de saúde suplementar nos últimos anos, através da análise temporal de séries históricas relacionadas ao setor. As variáveis escolhidas para este trabalho foram a sinistralidade, a taxa de cobertura e o quantitativo de operadoras em atividade, observadas de 2003 a 2014. O método utilizado para a avaliação da tendência temporal foi a Regressão Linear. A sinistralidade e a taxa de cobertura apresentaram uma tendência de crescimento no período, enquanto a quantidade de operadoras no Brasil apresentou uma tendência de decrescimento no mesmo período. Esses resultados apontam que, mesmo com o aumento da demanda, houve uma diminuição do número de operadoras em atividade no país. A sinistralidade é uma das possíveis causas de observarmos essa relação inversa, pois o seu aumento oferece riscos à sobrevida e à abertura de novas operadoras. Ademais, a diminuição do número de operadoras está conduzindo o país a uma oligopolização do setor com uma demanda crescente do número de beneficiários. Essa diminuição pode estar também associada aos processos regulatórios que normatizam a relação do setor com o beneficiário.

Abstract Alarming data on the part of health care providers on the increase of the claim rate and its potential risk has emerged. It is a descriptive study, with the objective of understanding the changes in the healthcare provider sector in recent years, using the temporal analysis of historical series related to the sector. The variables selected for this study were the claim rate, the coverage rate, and the number of private healthcare providers in activity, observed from 2003 to 2014. The method used for evaluation of the temporal trend was Linear Regression. The claim rate and the coverage rate show an upward trend in the period, while the number of operators in Brazil showed a decreasing trend during the same period. These results show that even with the increase in demand, there was a decrease in the number of operators active in the country. The claim rate is one of the possible causes observed this inverse relationship because the increased offers risks of survival and the opening of new operators. Moreover, the decrease in the number of providers, is leading the country to an oligopolistic industry with an increasing demand in the number of beneficiaries. This decrease is also associated with regulatory processes, which regulates the sector's relationship with the beneficiary.

SPF and UVA-PF sunscreen evaluation: are there good correlations among results obtained in vivo, in vitro and in a theoretical Sunscreen Simulator? A real-life exercise.

OBJECTIVE: Strategies to optimize the development of sunscreens include the use of theoretical sunscreen simulators to predict sun protection factor (SPF) and UVA protection factor (UVA-PF) and in vitro measurements of UVA-PF. The aims of this study were to assess the correlations between (1) SPF and UVA-PF results obtained in a theoretical sunscreen simulator with those observed in vivo (SPF and UVA-PF) and in vitro (UVA-PF) and (2) the results of UVA-PF observed in vitro and in vivo for products in different galenic forms containing or not pigments. METHODS: BASF Sunscreen Simulator software was used to evaluate the theoretical performance of formulations regarding SPF and UVA protection. In vitroUVA-PF and in vivoSPF were determined for all formulations. UVA-PFin vivo measurements were carried out only on products for which the galenic forms (compact foundations and lip balms) or the presence of dye or pigments could make the results of UVA-PFin vitro less reliable (due to a possible uneven film formation). RESULTS: The results of the SPF calculated by the BASF Sunscreen Simulator presented a very good correlation with SPF observed in vivo in the absence of pigments (r = 0.91; P < 0.05) and a good correlation in the presence of pigments (r = 0.70; P < 0.05). The UVA-PF calculated by the BASF Sunscreen Simulator also exhibited a very good correlation with UVA-PF measured in vitro (r = 0.88; P < 0.05) for the formulations not containing pigment and a good correlation (r = 0.75; P < 0.05) for the formulations containing pigment. The correlation of same UVA-PF calculated by BASF Sunscreen Simulator with UVA-PF measured in vivo for the formulations containing pigment was r = 0.74 (P < 0.05), which is considered good. In addition, the measurements of UVA-PFin vivo presented a good correlation with the values obtained in vitro (r = 0.74; P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In the present study, the use of BASF Sunscreen Simulator and in vitroUVA tests showed good correlations with in vivo results and could be considered as valuable resources in the development of sunscreens.

Lo que no te contaron de las fracturas de fémur / What nobody told you about femur fractures

Introducción: Se relaciona la bibliografía con la experiencia de nuestros cirujanos frente a un instrumental defectuoso en el tratamiento de fracturas de fémur con osteosíntesis endomedulares. Objetivos: 1) Enumerar inconvenientes técnicos que se presentan en las cirugías de fémur, 2) comparar diferentes Centros y problemas afrontados, 3) estimar los canales de reclamo. Materiales y Métodos: 1) Estudio retrospectivo, de observación, descriptivo sobre historias clínicas y archivo radiológico, 2) encuesta en línea enviada a traumatólogos generales, 3) consulta con la ANMAT, el IRAM, los Ministerios de Salud de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires y de la Nación. Resultados: 1) 31 pacientes con fracturas de fémur tratados con osteosíntesis endomedulares entre enero de 2008 y agosto de 2013. Dieciocho casos de fallas o defectos del instrumental de colocación en 14 pacientes. Los problemas más frecuentes fueron las guías y las mechas, 2) 270 respuestas, 19 provincias argentinas, respuestas de Colombia, Ecuador, Italia, Australia y Bolivia. Se obtuvieron 180 respuestas de Centros privados y 90 de Centros públicos, 3) cuatro vías de reclamo: ANMAT bajo el programa de Tecnovigilancia, IRAM por el incumplimiento de las Normas ISO 9001, Ministerio de Salud por incumplimiento de la resolución 255 y la Ley Básica de Salud N.º 153, art. 12 (ítems k y l) y AAOT, en la subcomisión de Implantes. Conclusiones: Queda explícita la diferencia entre Centros públicos y privados; sin embargo, el medio laboral solo definió la prevalencia de inconvenientes técnicos, pero los inconvenientes fueron los mismos. Existen formas para denunciar y enfrentar esta problemática.

Background: This paper intends to correlate data obtained from different orthopedic surgical teams and literature on faulty instrumentation during femoral fracture treatment with intramedullary nailing. Objectives: 1) To define technical problems arising during surgical procedures to treat femoral fractures; 2) to compare different centers and problems; 3) to analyze possible ways to find a solution. Methods: 1) A retrospective, descriptive, observational study on clinical records and radiologic files was performed; 2) an on-line survey was sent to orthopedic surgeons; 3) a query was sent to ANMAT, IRAM, and Ministerios de Salud de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires y de la Nación. Results: 1) 31 intramedullary femoral nailing procedures were performed from January 2008 to August 2013. Eighteen cases of surgical tool deficiencies in 14 patients. More frequent problems were related to drill bits and guide wires; 2) 270 forms were filled up, from 19 provinces of Argentina, and from Colombia, Ecuador, Italy, Australia and Bolivia. We received answers from 180 private institutions and 90 public hospitals; 3) there are four possible ways to reach a solution: ANMAT with its Programa de Tecnovigilancia, IRAM for non-fulfillment of ISO 9001 rules, Ministerios de Salud for nonfulfillment of resolution 255 and Ley Básica de Salud N.º 153, art. 12, items k and l, and AAOT Implants Subcommittee. Conclusions: A clear-cut difference was established between public and private centers; however, the working place only defined the prevalence of technical problems, but problems themselves were the same. There are legal and administrative tools to deal with these problems.

Avaliação de índice de infestação de Culex quinquefasciatus e registro de reclamações de incômodo em áreas referentes aos piscinões de Santo André, SP / Culex quinquefasciatus infestation indexes application and nuisance complaints record in areas related to big pools of Santo André, SP

Introdução: Os culicídeos (insetos da Ordem Diptera, Família Culicidae), vulgarmente conhecidos como pernilongos, são vetores de diversos agentes patogênicos de doenças humanas e animais e fator de incômodo à população em geral. Os recursos lançados com o objetivo de controlar as pragas urbanas utilizando compostos químicos devem ser feitos com o máximo de parcimônia a fim de se evitar a contaminação ambiental e dificultar o aparecimento de linhagens resistentes dos vetores e pragas urbanas aos biocidas empregados. Objetivos: Estabelecer índices de infestações de Culex quinquefasciatus baseados na contagem de insetos adultos e de suas formas imaturas, coletados em piscinões e propor instrumento para estimar o incômodo provocado pelas picadas na população do entorno. Materiais e Métodos: O período estabelecido de coleta de espécimes de mosquitos e dados provenientes foi de agosto de 2014 a maio de 2015. Foram escolhidos dois piscinões do Município de Santo André, o Piscinão do Bairro Bom Pastor e o Piscinão da Faculdade de Medicina (Valparaíso) para ser a área de estudo. Esta pesquisa propõe a construção de alguns índices de infestação da espécie em estudo baseado em duas vertentes: 1) Foi feito o diagnóstico por meio de contagem de pernilongos conduzida na área dos piscinões. Foram contados e identificados os exemplares adultos deste mosquito que foram coletados por meio de aspiração nos abrigos e a aspiração dentro de caixas de repouso que foram instaladas nas áreas dos piscinões e contagem de formas imaturas (larvas e pupas), recolhidas dos criadouros aquáticos dos piscinões. 2) Foram analisadas as reclamações provindas dos munícipes através do Sistema de Informação de Atendimento da Prefeitura Municipal, dentro de um raio limítrofe correspondente à área de influência de cada reservatório.

Introduction: Culicids (Diptera: Culicidae) usually known as mosquitoes, are vectors of several animal and human diseases pathogenic agents and also are nuisance factors to general population. The features launched with the objective to control the urban pests using chemicals must be made with maximum parsimony to avoid environmental contamination and also hamper the emergence of resistant strains to biocides used. Objectives: To establish infestation levels of Culex quinquefasciatus based on the insect count adults and their immature forms, collected in big pools and propose tool to estimate the nuisance caused by the bites on the surrounding population. Materials and Methods: The established period collection of mosquito specimens and originated data was from August 2014 to May 2015.For the study area, were chosen two reservoirs of the Municipality of Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil, from the reservoir of the Bom Pastor and the reservoir district, School of Medicine, located in Valparaiso neighborhood. This research proposes the construction of some infestation rates of target species based on two fronts: 1) it was diagnosed by mosquitoes count conducted in the area of big pools. They were counted and identified the adult specimens of this mosquito were collected through aspiration in shelters and aspiration within resting boxes were installed in the areas of big pools and count immature forms (larvae and pupae), collected in aquatic breeding of big pools . 2) Complaints were analyzed stemmed from residents through the Information Service of the City System within a radius corresponding to the boundary area of influence of each reservoir.

Integrated approach in the assessment of skin compatibility of cosmetic formulations with green coffee oil.

OBJECTIVE: Green coffee oil (GCO) has been used in cosmetic formulations due to its emollient and anti-ageing properties. However, there are insufficient studies about its safety when applied in cosmetic formulations. METHODS: Cytotoxicity of GCO and of formulations containing 2.5-15% of GCO was evaluated by the MTT reduction assay, in human keratinocytes. Formulations containing 15% of GCO and the vehicle were applied under in use conditions in the volar forearm of human volunteers during 3 days. Transepidermal water loss, stratum corneum water content and erythema index were evaluated each 24 h using biophysical techniques. The same formulations were probed for skin tolerance through a patch test. RESULTS: Neither pure GCO nor its formulations showed cytotoxic effects in concentrations up to 100 µg mL(-1) . Transepidermal water loss values showed a slight reduction when the formulation containing GCO was applied. Stratum corneum water content and erythema index did not show significant differences, as the results observed in the first day of the study were maintained throughout 3 days. None of the volunteers display any reaction after using an occlusive patch. CONCLUSION: The results obtained in the study indicate that GCO seems to be safe for topical applications and showed good skin compatibility under the experimental conditions of the study.