Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles in an animal model of chronic wound induced with Resiquimod.

Cost-effective strategies for the treatment of chronic wounds must be developed. The green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) it is possible to guarantee a lower toxicity in biological tissues and greater safety of applicability, in addition to adding the effects of nanoparticles (NPs) to those of extracts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of treatment with biosynthesized GNPs in a chronic wound model. Wistar rats were distributed into 7 groups: Acute Wound (AW); Chronic wound (CW); CW + GNPs-Açaí; CW + GNPs-DB; CW + AV-GNPs; CW + SafGel®; CW + 660 nm laser. The chronic injury model was induced with topically applied Resiquimod for 6 days. Treatments were then initated on the fourteenth day after the last application of Resiquimod and carried out daily for ten days. The proposed therapies with GNPs were able to significantly reduce the inflammatory score and increase the rate of wound contraction. In histology, there was a reduction in the inflammatory infiltrate and increased gene expression of fibronectin and type III collagen, mainly in the CW + AV-GNPs group. The therapies were able to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, increase anti-inflammatory cytokines, and reduce oxidative stress. The results demonstrated that the effects of GNPs appear to complement those of the extracts, thereby enhancing the tissue repair process.

Design of Liquid Formulation Based on F127-Loaded Natural Dimeric Flavonoids as a New Perspective Treatment for Leishmaniasis.

Infectious and Parasitic Diseases (IPD) remain a challenge for medicine due to several interconnected reasons, such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) is an overlooked IPD causing persistent skin ulcers that are challenging to heal, resulting in disfiguring scars. Moreover, it has the potential to extend from the skin to the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and throat in both humans and various animals. Given the limited effectiveness and AMR of current drugs, the exploration of new substances has emerged as a promising alternative for ATL treatment. Arrabidaea brachypoda (DC). Bureau is a native Brazilian plant rich in dimeric flavonoids, including Brachydin (BRA), which displays antimicrobial activity, but still little has been explored regarding the development of therapeutic formulations. In this work, we present the design of a low-cost liquid formulation based on the use of Pluronic F127 for encapsulation of high BRA concentration (LF-B500). The characterization techniques revealed that BRA-loaded F127 micelles are well-stabilized in an unusual worm-like form. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay demonstrated that LF-B500 was non-toxic to macrophages but efficient in the inactivation of forms of Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes with IC50 of 16.06 µg/mL. The results demonstrated that LF-B500 opened a new perspective on the use of liquid formulation-based natural products for ATL treatment.

IL-1ß Antagonist Receptor Peptide Associated with Photobiomodulation Accelerates Diabetic Wound Tissue Repair.

Chronic hyperglycemia caused by diabetes mellitus (DM) slows down the healing process due to prolonged inflammation which impedes the regeneration progression. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is considered a non-pharmacological intervention and has anti-inflammatory and biostimulatory effects that accelerate the healing process. Currently found IL-1ß inhibitors are difficult to implement due to their cytotoxic potential, excessive amounts, and invasive administration, and therefore, the application of this peptide in diabetic wounds represents a promising intervention to help resolve the inflammatory response. This study aimed to investigate the effect of an IL-1ß inhibitor molecule associated with PBM irradiation in a model of epithelial injury in diabetic mice. After the induction of the DM model with streptozotocin (STZ), the skin lesion model was implemented through surgical excision. Sixty C57BL/6 mice divided into five experimental groups (n = 12) were used: excisional wound (EW), DM + EW, DM + EW + DAP 1-2 (inhibitor peptide), DM + EW + PBM, and DM + EW + PBM + DAP 1-2. Treatment started 12 h after wound induction and was performed daily for 5 days. Twenty-four hours after the last application, the animals were euthanized and the outer edge of the wound was removed. The results obtained demonstrate that the DM + EW + PBM + DAP 1-2 group caused a reduction in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines, and an increase in TGF-ß and maintenance of the cellular redox state with a consequent reduction in levels of inflammatory infiltrate and concomitant stimulation of type III collagen gene expression, as well as a decrease in the size of the wound in square centimeter 6 days after the injury. Only the combination of therapies was able to favor the process of tissue regeneration due to the development of an approach capable of acting at different stages of the regenerative process, through the mechanisms of action of interventions on the inflammatory process by avoiding its stagnation and stimulating progression of regeneration.

The relationship between general psychopathology in young people with family functioning and engagement with psychotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: to examine whether an underlying general psychopathology factor (p factor) existed in children and adolescents attending psychodynamic psychotherapy and whether this general psychopathology factor was associated with family functioning and engagement with psychotherapy. METHOD: Participants were 1976 children and adolescents, and their families, who sought psychodynamic psychotherapy from a community-based clinic in Southern Brazil. The Child Behavior Checklist and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales for assessing symptoms and family functioning were used, with treatment engagement data available through linked records. Confirmatory factor analytic methods examined psychopathology and regression models were constructed to examine associations. RESULTS: A general psychopathology factor and specific internalizing and externalizing factors were identified. Higher general psychopathology scores at assessment were associated with an increased likelihood of dropout and poorer attendance compared to completing treatment. Father's educational level, living with both parents, lack of family adaptability and cohesion, and maltreatment experience were related to increased p factor severity. CONCLUSION: General psychopathology severity seems to contribute to child and adolescent psychotherapy outcomes, increasing the risk of non-adherence and dropout. Family difficulties and traumatic experiences may increase p factor severity. Identifying general psychopathology routinely can be crucial for developing effective treatment plans.

Deleterious Effects of Polypropylene Microplastic Ingestion in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

The effect of daily ingestion of polypropylene microplastic on the health of tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, was evaluated. 60 fish (± 200 g) were placed in 6 aquariums (n = 10, 100 L each), constituting the following treatments: Control (without the addition of polymer), fed with 100 and 500 µg of polypropylene/kg of body weight (b.w.), respectively. After 30 days of feeding, the animals were submitted to blood collection for hemogram and biochemical study and later euthanized for gut microbiological analysis, somatic index of liver, spleen, heart, kidney, stomach, and intestine. In the serum biochemical study, an increase in cholesterol and serum Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) activity levels was observed in animals treated with 500 µg of polypropylene. Tilapia-fed polypropylene in the diet showed an increase in thrombocyte and total leukocyte counts, marked by a significant increase in the number of circulating lymphocytes. The results of the somatic study revealed a significant increase in the stomach, liver, and heart of tilapia fed with the polymer. Increase in the number of Gram-negative microorganisms and decrease in mesophilic aerobic microorganisms were observed in the gut of fish exposed to the polymer, including a dose-response effect was observed for these analyses. Therefore, tilapias fed daily with diets containing polypropylene for 30 consecutive days showed deleterious effects, resulting in systemic inflammatory disturbs by altering liver functions, leukocyte profile, and organ morphometry, as well as changes in the intestinal microbiota. Such results demonstrate the impairment of fish health, highlighting the need for further studies that evaluate the impact of microplastics on aquatic organisms.

Device implant based on poly (lactic acid) with vitamin E for vaccine delivery system in Tilapia: Study for biocompatibility and biodegradation.

The use of Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) as a slow-release vehicle for vaccines has attracted the attention of researchers, since its insertion improves the uptake of them, and reduces side effects or by stimulating recruited defense cells, assisting immunity without the need for booster vaccine doses. Seeking to develop new strategies for the administration of drugs and vaccines in aquaculture, we evaluated the biocompatibility and biodegradation of polymeric PLA devices and PLA plus vitamin E devices, implanted through subcutaneous (SC) and intraperitoneal (IP) routes in Nile tilapia. To carry out this study, 84 male tilapia (initial 243.82 ± 56.74 g; final 400.71 ± 100.54 g) were randomly distributed in 3 tanks (n = 28 fish per treatment/tank). The devices were prepared in two formulations: neat PLA (containing 100% PLA) and PLAVE (PLA plus vitamin E) implanted using a commercial AnimalTag® applicator, and non-implanted fish (control). Fish were sampled 15, 30, 60, and 120 days post-implantation (DPI). Blood analysis was used to access blood cells and blood smear for differential leucocytes count. Serum biochemistry to evaluated changes in serum proteins and glycemia. Histopathological investigation using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) was used to assess polymer-tissue interaction. Histochemistry and immunohistochemistry was used to detection immune cells and phagocytes in capsule, and analyses of melanomacrophage centers (MMCs) to morphometric evaluation and percentage amount of melanin, hemosiderin and lipofucsin pigments. Histopathological study revealed an increase of capsular formation and inflammatory cell infiltration in PLAVE-implanted tilapia through SC route (15 DPI). Tilapia implanted with PLAVE and PLA (SC) presented mast cells and eosinophilic granular cells during 15, 30, and 60 DPI, with a decrease in these cells in the fibrous capsule around the polymer at 120 DPI. PLAVE implanted tilapia SC at 60 DPI showed significantly phagocytosis points than other groups. Phagocytic cells (F4/80+) were observed near to biopolymers in phagocytosis sites. Lipofuscin at 120 DPI in spleen melanomacrophage centers were significantly high in PLAVE implanted tilapias when compared to fish with PLA implants and control. The serum biochemical study of tilapia did not reveal changes in cytotoxicity and liver function in implanted fish. The absence of side effects in hematological and biochemical findings, including the absence of mortality after device implantation, proves its clinical safety. PLA implants in tilapia have demonstrated biocompatibility, biodegradation, clinical safety, and excellent evolution of foreign body inflammatory responses.

Antagonism of cysteinyl leukotriene receptors by zafirlukast modulated acute inflammatory reaction in tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus.

To identify activation pathways and effector mechanisms of innate immunity in fish has become relevant for the sanitary management of intensive fish farming. However, little is known about the blocking of cysteinyl leukotrienes receptors (CysLTRs) and their effects in teleost fish. Our study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of 250 and 500 µg zafirlukast (antagonist of CysLTRs)/kg b.w., administered orally in the diet, during acute inflammatory reaction induced by Aeromonas hydrophila bacterins in Oreochromis niloticus. 80 tilapia were distributed in 10 aquariums (100L of water each, n = 8) to constitute three treatments: Control (inoculated with A. hydrophila bacterin and untreated); Treated with 250 µg or 500 µg of zafirlukast/kg b.w. and inoculated. To be evaluated in three periods: 6, 24 and 48 h post-inoculation (HPI), totaling nine aquariums. A tenth group was sampled without any stimulus to constitute reference values (Physiological standards). Tilapia treated with zafirlukast demonstrated dose-response effect in the decrease of accumulated inflammatory cells, strongly influenced by granulocytes and macrophages. Zafirlukast treated-tilapia showed decrease in blood leukocyte counts (mainly neutrophils, and monocytes) and reactive oxygen species production. Treatment with zafirlukast resulted in down-regulation of ceruloplasmin, complement 3, alpha2-macroglobulin, transferrin and apolipoprotein A1, as well as up-regulation of haptoglobin. Our study provided convincing results in the pathophysiology of tilapia inflammatory reaction, considering that treatment with zafirlukast, antagonist of cysteinyl leukotriene receptors, resulted in a dose-response effect by suppressing the dynamics between leukocytes in the bloodstream and cell accumulation in the inflamed focus, as well as modulated the leukocyte oxidative burst and the acute phase protein response.

Effects of La2O3 nanoparticles and bulk-La2O3 on the development of Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen and respective nutrient element concentration.

Nanoparticles (NPs) have been progressively applied in the last decades, which may impact the environment. Synthesis of pigments, growing, and nutrient element uptake by plants can also be affected by NPs. The influence of lanthanum oxide nanoparticles (La2O3 NPs) on growth, pigment synthesis, and nutrient element uptake by Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, a medicinal plant native in South America, was evaluated in the present study. P. glomerata plantlets were cultivated for 28 days in the absence (control) and presence of 100, 200, and 400 mg L-1 of La2O3 NPs or bulk-La2O3 (b-La2O3) at the same cultivation conditions. Root development, aerial part growth, and pigment concentration in plants were affected by b-La2O3 and La2O3 NPs, mainly by La2O3 NPs. In spite of alteration of nutrient element concentration observed for the 100 and 200 mg L-1 of La2O3 NPs or b-La2O3 treatments, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, P, S, and Zn determination in stems and leaves revealed drastically and similar decrease of these elements in plants cultivated in the presence of 400 mg L-1 of La2O3 NPs or b-La2O3. Element distribution (mapping) determined by using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in leaves of plants submitted to treatment with 400 mg L-1 of b-La2O3 or La2O3 NPs showed differences in the distribution of elements, indicating distinct effects of b-La2O3 and La2O3 NPs on P. glomerata. As such, this study demonstrated that La2O3 NPs may impact plant growth. However, more investigations are necessary for better understanding of the effect of La2O3 on plants, including a broader range of concentration.

Diabetic ketoacidosis and COVID-19: what have we learned so far?

In December 2019, a pandemic emerged due to a new coronavirus that imposed various uncertainties and discoveries. It has been reported that diabetes is a risk factor for worst outcomes of COVID-19 and also that SARS-CoV-2 infection was correlated with the occurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in patients. The aim of this work is to discuss this correlation emphasizing the main case reports from 2020 while exploring the management of DKA during the course of COVID-19. Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases were searched using two sets of Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) search terms or Title/Abstract words: Coronavirus Infections (Coronavirus Infections, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, COVID-19) and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (Diabetic Ketoacidosis, Diabetic Acidosis, Diabetic Ketosis). There is a clear correlation between COVID-19 and DKA. The SARS-Cov-2 infection may precipitate both a hyperglycemic state and ketoacidosis occurrence in patients with diabetes and nondiabetic patients, which may lead to fatal outcomes. DKA in patients with COVID-19 may increase risk and worse outcomes. Hence, the SARS-Cov-2 infection presents a new perspective toward the management of glycemia and acidosis in patients with diabetes and nondiabetic patients, highlighting the need for rapid interventions to minimize the complications from COVID-19 while reducing its spreading.

Using in vivo animal models for studying SARS-CoV-2.

INTRODUCTION: The search for an animal model capable of reproducing the physiopathology of the COVID-19, and also suitable for evaluating the efficacy and safety of new drugs has become a challenge for many researchers. AREAS COVERED: This work reviews the current animal models for in vivo tests with SARS-CoV-2 as well as the challenges involved in the safety and efficacy trials. EXPERT OPINION: Studies have reported the use of nonhuman primates, ferrets, mice, Syrian hamsters, lagomorphs, mink, and zebrafish in experiments that aimed to understand the course of COVID-19 or test vaccines and other drugs. In contrast, the assays with animal hyperimmune sera have only been used in in vitro assays. Finding an animal that faithfully reproduces all the characteristics of the disease in humans is difficult. Some models may be more complex to work with, such as monkeys, or require genetic manipulation so that they can express the human ACE2 receptor, as in the case of mice. Although some models are more promising, possibly the use of more than one animal model represents the best scenario. Therefore, further studies are needed to establish an ideal animal model to help in the development of other treatment strategies besides vaccines.

Involvement of serotonergic pathways in gastric dysmotility induced by fat burning nutritional supplements in mice.

Fat burners are a category of nutritional supplements that are claimed to increase the metabolism and promote greater energy expenditure, leading to weight loss. However, little is known about the side effects on gastrointestinal motility. In this study, we evaluated the effect of ingestion with a fat burner named Thermbuterol® (THERM) on the gastric motility and food behavior of mice. THERM compounds were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Mice received variable doses of THERM (10, 50, 100 or 300 â€‹mg/kg, p.o.) or NaCl 0.15 â€‹M (control). Gastric emptying (GE) was assessed using the phenol red technique. Another set of mice was pretreated with intraperitoneal administration of hexamethonium (HEXA, 10 â€‹mg/kg), prazosin (PRAZ, 0.25 â€‹mg/kg), propranolol (PROP, 2 â€‹mg/kg), parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 300 â€‹mg/kg) or ondansetron (ONDA, 50 â€‹µg/kg) 30 â€‹min before THERM treatment for evaluation of GE. We assessed the gastrointestinal responsiveness in vitro as well as THERM's effects on food behavior. Caffeine was the major compound of THERM, identified by NMR. THERM 100 and 300 â€‹mg/kg decreased GE compared to the respective controls. Pretreatment with PRAZ or PROP did not prevent gastric dysmotility induced by THERM 100 â€‹mg/kg. However, the pretreatment with HEXA, ONDA or PCPA prevented GE delay induced by THERM. In vitro, THERM relaxed contractions in strips of longitudinal gastric fundus and duodenum. THERM also increased food intake, which was prevented by PCPA and ONDA treatments. THERM decreased GE of a liquid and increased food intake in mice, a phenomenon mediated by the autonomic nicotinic receptors and serotoninergic receptor.

Probiotic potential of Enterococcus hirae in goat milk and its survival in canine gastrointestinal conditions simulated in vitro.

In canine nutrition, the use of goat nutraceutical dairy products is an innovative proposal. Therefore, the objective of this study was to prepare fermented goat milk with probiotic potential in dogs in an in vitro model. A total of 40 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) species were grown, of which 30 were CAP isolates originally from goat milk and 10 were CAN isolates originally from fecal material of newborn dogs. The isolates were selected based on resistance to the simulated canine gastrointestinal condition and acidifying ability. After this preliminary screening, the analyses were performed regarding ß-galactosidase and exopolysaccharide formation, diacetyl production, adhesion proteins Mub and mapa, hydrophobicity, DPPH assay, virulence and antibiotic resistance. With these evaluations, four LAB isolates were identified using sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. These were identified as Enterococcus hirae and were used to produce fermented goat milk. For statistical analysis, the data were analyzed using the Scott-Knott test and also submitted to analysis of variance and the Tukey test (P < 0.05). In the evaluation of goat milk fermented with E. hirae and control, over the 36-day storage period there was a reduction in pH and an increase in acidity, and higher levels of LAB were observed in goat milk fermented with E. hirae. Therefore, both these E. hirae isolates and the fermented goat milk produced showed satisfactory results in vitro, demonstrating probiotic efficiency and food safety for dogs.

COVID-19 and Hyperimmune sera: A feasible plan B to fight against coronavirus.

Since the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, different treatment strategies have been explored. These mainly involve the development of antimicrobial, antiviral, and/or anti-inflammatory agents as well as vaccine production. However, other potential options should be more avidly investigated since vaccine production on a worldwide level, and the anti-vaccination movement, also known as anti-vax or vaccine hesitancy by many communities, are still real obstacles without a ready solution. This review presents recent findings on the potential therapeutic advantages of heterologous serotherapy for the treatment of COVID-19. We present not only the effective use in animal models of hyperimmune sera against this coronavirus but also strategies, and protocols for the production of anti-SARS-CoV-2 sera. Promising antigens are also indicated such as the receptor-binding domain (RBD) in SARS-CoV-2 S protein, which is already in phase 2/3 clinical trial, and the trimeric protein S, which was shown to be up to 150 times more potent than the serum from convalescent donors. Due to the high death rate, the treatment for those currently infected with coronavirus cannot be ignored. Therefore, the potential use of anti-SARS-CoV-2 hyperimmune sera should be carefully but urgently evaluated in phase 2/3 clinical studies.

An analysis of third molar mineralization in Brazilian patients with cleft lip and palate.

Purpose: This study investigated the third molar mineralization in patients with cleft lip and palate.Materials and methods: From a total of 253 digital panoramic radiographs from patients with cleft lip and palate within the age range of 7-21 years, 97 radiographs were selected (cleft group). A control group was formed from same sex individuals, without malformation and chronological age matched within 30 days. The analysis of third molar mineralization was carried out by three calibrated examiners using Demirjian's and Nolla's methods. McNemar and Wilcoxon test for paired samples were used for pairwise comparisons between the groups. The Likelihood Ratio test was used to check for an association between the type of cleft and tooth calcification.Results: In both methods, the mineralization means were smaller in the case group than in the control, with significant differences for all third molars (p < .05). The type of cleft affected dental mineralization. There was no significant difference when comparing the left or right sides, but maxillary molars showed earlier mineralization.Conclusions: A significant delay in third molar mineralization was observed in patients with cleft lip and palate according to Demirjian's and Nolla's methods.

Diets containing cunhã (Clitoria ternatea L.) hay and forage cactus (Opuntia sp.) meal on production and meat quality of Boer crossbred goat.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of association of forage cactus meal (CM) and cunhã hay (CH) on carcass traits, meat quality, and fatty acid (FA) profile of goats. Twenty-four goats were finished on diets composed with the association of CM and CH (83% CH + 17% CM, 67% CH + 33% CM, or 50% CH + 50% CM), corresponding to 60% of the total diet; the remainder was composed of 10% elephant grass and 30% concentrate. The control treatment consisted of 70% elephant grass and 30% concentrate. Carcass yield and commercial cut weight were higher in the animals fed CH and CM at any concentration (P < 0.05). Animals fed with intermediate and high CM content resulted in meat with better proportions of unsaturated FA (P = 0.0281), desirable FA (P = 0.0024), omega 6/omega 3 ratio (P = 0.0340), and hypo-/hypercholesterolemic index (P = 0.0140). The inclusion of CH and CM provided carcass yield and FA profile more favorable for consumer market and human health.

What is the appropriate time to measure outcome and process factors in psychodynamic psychotherapy?

INTRODUCTION: Different instruments and methods for measuring factors related to the progress and effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy (PDT) have been widely discussed in the literature. However, there are no established guidelines on the most appropriate time to perform these measurements. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to problematize what is the appropriate time to measure the initial outcomes (symptoms, interpersonal relationships, quality, and social role) and process factors (alliance) in the early stages of PDT. METHODS: A naturalistic cohort study was conducted, following 304 patients during the first six months of psychotherapy. The therapeutic alliance was evaluated after four sessions; symptoms, interpersonal relationships, and social role were evaluated at intake and after 12 and 24 sessions. RESULTS: Our results indicate that four sessions were sufficient to measure the bond dimension of the therapeutic alliance, while more time is probably needed to adequately measure other aspects of the therapeutic alliance, such as tasks and goals. However, 12 sessions of treatment proved sufficient to detect improvements in all dimensions of the outcome instruments with moderate effect sizes, and those gains were stable at the 24th session. CONCLUSION: According to our findings, 12 sessions seem to be sufficient to assess initial gains in PDT, although more studies are needed to evaluate the appropriate time to assess all aspects of the therapeutic alliance. Further studies are also required to evaluate the appropriate time to assess intermediate and long-term progress with regard to symptoms, interpersonal relations, social role and personality reorganization.

What is the appropriate time to measure outcome and process factors in psychodynamic psychotherapy? / Qual o tempo apropriado pata medir fatores de resultado e processo em psicoterapia psicodinâmica?

Abstract Introduction Different instruments and methods for measuring factors related to the progress and effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy (PDT) have been widely discussed in the literature. However, there are no established guidelines on the most appropriate time to perform these measurements. Objectives The aim of this study is to problematize what is the appropriate time to measure the initial outcomes (symptoms, interpersonal relationships, quality, and social role) and process factors (alliance) in the early stages of PDT. Methods A naturalistic cohort study was conducted, following 304 patients during the first six months of psychotherapy. The therapeutic alliance was evaluated after four sessions; symptoms, interpersonal relationships, and social role were evaluated at intake and after 12 and 24 sessions. Results Our results indicate that four sessions were sufficient to measure the bond dimension of the therapeutic alliance, while more time is probably needed to adequately measure other aspects of the therapeutic alliance, such as tasks and goals. However, 12 sessions of treatment proved sufficient to detect improvements in all dimensions of the outcome instruments with moderate effect sizes, and those gains were stable at the 24th session. Conclusion According to our findings, 12 sessions seem to be sufficient to assess initial gains in PDT, although more studies are needed to evaluate the appropriate time to assess all aspects of the therapeutic alliance. Further studies are also required to evaluate the appropriate time to assess intermediate and long-term progress with regard to symptoms, interpersonal relations, social role and personality reorganization.

Resumo Introdução Diferentes instrumentos e formas de medir fatores relacionados ao progresso e à efetividade da psicoterapia psicodinâmica (PDT) têm sido amplamente discutidos na literatura. No entanto, não há diretrizes estabelecidas sobre o tempo apropriado para que essas medidas sejam realizadas. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo é problematizar qual o momento apropriado para medir resultados iniciais (sintomas, relações interpessoais e papel social) e fatores de processo (aliança) nos estágios iniciais da PDT. Métodos Realizou-se estudo de coorte naturalista que acompanhou 304 pacientes durante os primeiros seis meses de psicoterapia. A aliança terapêutica foi avaliada após quatro sessões; sintomas, relações interpessoais e papel social foram avaliados na entrevista de entrada e após 12 e 24 sessões. Resultados Nossos resultados indicam que quatro sessões foram suficientes para medir a dimensão do vínculo da aliança terapêutica, enquanto que é necessário mais tempo para medir adequadamente outros aspectos da aliança terapêutica, como tarefas e objetivos. No entanto, 12 sessões de tratamento revelaram-se suficientes para detectar melhora em todas as dimensões dos instrumentos de resultados com tamanhos de efeito moderados, e esses ganhos se mostraram estáveis na 24ª sessão. Conclusão De acordo com nossos achados, 12 sessões parecem ser suficientes para acessar os ganhos iniciais na PDT, porém mais estudos são necessários para avaliar o tempo apropriado de medir todos os aspectos da aliança terapêutica. São necessários mais estudos para avaliar o tempo apropriado para avaliar os ganhos intermediários e de longo prazo em relação a sintomas, função interpessoal e função social.

Correlação entre a mineralização dos terceiros molares e a idade cronológica por três métodos / Correlación entre la mineralización del tercer molar y la edad cronológica por tres métodos / Correlation between third molar mineralization and chronological age by three methods

Introdução: os estágios de mineralização dentária têm sido utilizados em diversos estudos para a estimativa de idade, apresentando confiabilidade nos resultados. Objetivo: correlacionar a mineralização dos terceiros molares e a idade cronológica pelos métodos de Nolla, Demirjian e Nicodemo, Moraes e Médici Filho numa amostra populacional do nordeste brasileiro. Métodos: de um universo de 1 205 radiografias panorâmicas digitais, foram selecionadas 297 imagens de pacientes atendidos rotineiramente em um serviço de Radiologia Odontológica privado. Todas as imagens foram avaliadas em ambiente escurecido por três examinadores calibrados, utilizando as classificações de Nolla (1960), Demirjian (1973) e Nicodemo, Moraes e Médici Filho (1974). Os dados numéricos foram resumidos através das estatísticas descritivas de locação e dispersão. Para análise estatística foi ajustado um modelo de regressão linear simples considerando a idade como variável resposta. Para os testes, foi adotado o nível de significância de 5 porcento ciento. Resultados: o desenvolvimento dos terceiros molares foi mais adiantado no sexo masculino na maioria dos estágios, para os três métodos. Nos dentes superiores, o dimorfismo sexual foi mais evidente no estágio 7 de Nolla (diferença de 16,34 m no dente 18 e 14,43 m no dente 28). Nos dentes inferiores, as maiores diferenças ocorreram: no estágio 6 de Nolla (diferença de 13,92 m no 38 e 10,46 m no 48) e estágio 5 de Nicodemo (diferença de 16,23 m mais elevado no elemento 38 e 9,9 m no 48). O desenvolvimento dos dentes terceiros molares dos lados direito e esquerdo apresentou-se semelhante, contudo os dentes superiores apresentaram-se mais adiantados que os inferiores. O presente estudo permitiu o desenvolvimento de fórmulas baseadas em regressões lineares simples utilizando os três métodos propostos, possibilitando, assim, estimar a idade cronológica dos indivíduos da amostra. Conclusão: houve correlação do desenvolvimento dentário dos terceiros molares com a idade cronológica pelos três métodos(AU)

Introducción: las etapas de mineralización de los dientes se han utilizado en varios estudios para estimar la edad, lo cual ha mostrado resultados fiables. Objetivo: correlacionar la mineralización de los terceros molares y la edad cronológica por los métodos de Nolla, Demirjian y Nicodemo, Moraes y Medici Filho en una muestra de población del nordeste de Brasil. Métodos: a partir de un universo de 1 205 radiografías panorámicas digitales, se seleccionaron 297 imágenes de pacientes tratados de forma rutinaria en un servicio de radiología dental privada. Todas las imágenes fueron evaluadas en cuarto oscuro por tres examinadores calibrados, utilizando los métodos de Nolla (1960), Demirjian (1973) y Nicodemo, Moraes y Medici Filho (1974). Los datos numéricos se resumieron utilizando estadística descriptiva del contrato de arrendamiento y la dispersión. El análisis estadístico se ajustó un simple modelo de regresión lineal, considerando la edad como variable de respuesta. Para las pruebas, se adoptó el nivel de significación del 5 pr ciento. Resultados: el desarrollo de los terceros molares fue más temprano en los varones en la mayoría de las etapas, por los tres métodos. En los dientes superiores, el dimorfismo sexual fue más evidente en la etapa 7 de Nolla (diferencia de 16,34 m en el diente 18 y 14,43 m en el diente 28). En los dientes inferiores, las mayores diferencias ocurrieron: en la etapa 6 de Nolla (diferencia de 13,92 m no 38 y 10,46 m no 48) y etapa 5 de Nicodemo (diferencia de 16,23 m más elevado en el elemento 38 y 9,9 m no 48). El desarrollo de los dientes terceros molares de los lados derecho e izquierdo se presentó semejante, sin embargo los dientes superiores se presentaron más adelantados que los inferiores. Este estudio permitieron el desarrollo de formulaciones a base de regresiones lineales usando los tres métodos propuestos, permitiendo estimar la edad cronológica de los individuos en la muestra. Conclusiones: se observa una correlación de desarrollo de los dientes terceros molares con la edad cronológica por tres métodos(AU)

Introduction: dental mineralization stages have been used in several studies to estimate age, and the results obtained have been found to be reliable. Objective: correlate third molar mineralization and chronological age using the methods developed by Nolla, Demirjian, and Nicodemo, Moraes and Medici Filho in a population sample from Northeast Brazil. Methods: of a total 1 205 digital panoramic radiographs, 297 were selected of patients routinely seen in a private dental radiology service. All the images underwent darkroom evaluation by three qualified examiners using the methods developed by Nolla (1960), Demirjian (1973), and Nicodemo, Moraes and Medici Filho (1974). Numerical data were summarized by location and dispersion descriptive statistics. For statistical analysis a simple linear regression model was adjusted which considered age as response variable. A significance level of 5 percent was adopted for the tests. Results: third molar development occurred earlier in males in most stages by the three methods. In upper teeth, sexual dimorphism was more evident in Nolla stage 7 (difference of 16.34 m in tooth 18 and 14.43 m in tooth 28). In lower teeth, the greatest differences occurred in Nolla stage 6 (difference of 13.92 m in 38 and 10.46 m in 48) and Nicodemo stage 5 (difference of 16.23 m higher in tooth 38 and 9.9 m in 48). Third molar development was similar on the right and left sides, but greater in upper teeth than in lower teeth. The study allowed development of linear regression formulas based on the three methods proposed, making it possible to estimate the chronological age of the individuals in the sample. Conclusions: the three methods found a correlation between third molar development and chronological age(AU)

Meios de proteção contra radiação utilizados em estabelecimentos de assistência à saúde odontológica

Objetivo: avaliar os procedimentos dos cirurgiões-dentistas acerca dos aspectos de radioproteção na cidade de Patos, PB, de acordo com a legislação sanitária brasileira. Materiais e método: foi utilizada uma abordagem indutiva com procedimento descritivo e técnica de pesquisa por documentação direta em campo. Na cidade de Patos, entre os 43 consultórios odontológicos existentes, 35 proprietários aceitaram participar da pesquisa e assinaram o termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido. O pesquisador, após autorização, rea-lizou inspeção visual e preencheu o formulário contendo itens concernentes à radioproteção. Resultados: foi constatada a ausência de sinalização da radiação ionizante nas salas de raios-X em 94,2% dos consultórios e em nenhum estabelecimento foi identificado o aviso acerca da importância da ciência do dentista em casos de pacientes gestantes. Foi observado, também, aventais de chumbo acondicionados de maneira incorreta e até mesmo consultórios que não dispunham de aventais e protetores de tireoide. Conclusão: alguns aspectos de radioproteção estão em desacordo com a legislação sanitária brasileira nos consultórios odonto -lógicos de Patos, demonstrando que existem cirurgiões-dentistas que desconhecem ou não cumprem algumas normas de radioproteção vigentes, que poderiam minimizar os riscos inerentes da exposição à radiação.

Diversidade de visitantes florais e biologia reprodutiva do Araçá (Psidium cattleianum Sabine) em fragmento de mata e área urbana / Diversity of flower visitors and breeding system of the strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum Sabine) in urban and fragmented areas

A perda de habitat causa um declínio nas populações de plantas e animais, afetando suas interações, como a polinização. Em áreas urbanas, a deficiência de polinizadores é a principal causa para redução do sucesso reprodutivo nas plantas. A presença de fragmentos de mata pode auxiliar na conservação de visitantes florais, auxiliando na produção de sementes. Para testar essa hipótese, foram feitos testes reprodutivos e coletas ativas dos visitantes florais em árvores de araçá em área urbana e fragmento de mata. Os visitantes mais abundantes em ambas as áreas foram as abelhas. Os valores de abundância das abelhas não variaram entre si mais que o acaso, porém a diversidade foi maior na área com fragmento. A produção de frutos por autopolinização supera a de polinização natural, devido, provavelmente, ao fato de que muitos dos visitantes florais atuam como pilhadores de pólen, o que diminui a quantidade deste que é disponível para a polinização. Apesar da maior diversidade de visitantes na área de fragmento de mata, da autocompatibilidade e do comportamento de pilhador dos visitantes, esses fatores não influenciam no sucesso reprodutivo da espécie estudada. Palavras-chave: Antropização. Autocompatibilidade. Pilhadores de pólen. Sucesso reprodutivo.

Habitat loss causes a decline in plant and animal populations, negatively affecting plant-pollinator interactions, such as pollination. In urban areas pollinator deficit is the main cause of plants low reproductive success. The presence of forest fragments in urban areas may help to preserve floral visitors, increasing seed production. This hypothesis was tested by conducting reproduction tests of strawberry guava trees in an urban area and at a forest fragment within an urban area and by actively collecting its floral visitors. Bees were the most abundant flower visitors in both areas. Bees abundance was strictly casual, but diversity was higher in areas with fragment. Fruit production by selfing exceeds that of natural pollination probably because many floral visitors act as pollen thieves, decreasing the amount of pollen available for pollination. Despite the greater diversity of visitors in the forest fragment area, self-compatibility, and the robbing behavior of visitors, these factors do not influence the reproductive success of the study species.