Universidade Iguacu

The development of innovative treatments for American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is crucial due to severe side effects of current treatment and the emergence of non-responder parasites. To address such a challenge the incorporation of epoxy-α-lapachone (ELAP) into a microemulsion (ME), named ELAP-ME, represents a promising therapeutic approach. In previous studies, ELAP-ME demonstrated efficacy in controlling infection in the BALB/c-Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis model, advancing in the technology readiness level with a drug prototype. To further validate its potential as a drug prototype, the histopathological effects of ELAP-ME were investigated in healthy BALB/c mice as a preclinical approach stage. Mice were administered with a fixed dose of ELAP-ME microemulsion (∼7 μg/kg) and evaluated at different short-term after administration (4, 12, and 24 h). Histopathological analysis of the liver, kidney, lung, heart, and brain revealed only mild alterations. These findings confirm the low toxicity profile of ELAP-ME, highlighting its safety and supporting its continued advancement as a pharmacological alternative for the treatment of leishmaniasis.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease leading to progressive muscle weakness and paralysis. Approximately 10% of ALS cases are familial (FALS), with the VAPB gene's P56S pathogenic variant being notably prevalent in Brazilian families, contributing to the rare ALS8. This variant progresses more slowly than typical ALS, with distinct clinical features.To identify VAPB gene pathogenic variants in Brazilian FALS patients, particularly the P56S pathogenic variant associated with ALS8 and explore its clinical presentation and progression.Twelve FALS patients from 12 unrelated families in Rio de Janeiro were included in the study between 2023 and 2024. Clinical, laboratory, and electrophysiological data were reviewed. Collection of DNA samples happened via oral swabs, and VAPB gene sequencing was performed to identify pathogenic variants, specifically the P56S variant linked to ALS8.There were 3 cases of the P56S pathogenic variant, all presenting ALS8 with symptom onset in the lower limbs and slower disease progression. A family with 11 affected members across four generations showed an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, with varying survival rates, highlighting its clinical variability.The present study underscores the importance of genetic screening for ALS subtypes, particularly ALS8, in Brazil. Identifying the P56S pathogenic variant enhances our understanding of ALS's genetic diversity and clinical presentation, offering a foundation for improved diagnostic practices and personalized care.

Apical extrusion of bacteria is an unintended event that occurs during the chemical-mechanical preparation of infected root canals. Flare-ups and the spread of infection to periradicular tissues are possible consequences. This systematic review aimed to determine which type of engine-driven nickel-titanium systems, reciprocating or rotary, promote greater bacterial extrusion. Studies that compared manual and engine-driven systems or different brands of rotary instruments were also analyzed as a secondary objective.

Searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest up to April 2024. Ex vivo studies that quantified the apical extrusion of bacteria comparing different instrumentation systems were included. The studies were critically assessed using a customized checklist.

Of the 4938 articles initially retrieved, 38 were selected for full-text reading and 35 were included in this review. Thirteen studies compared rotary and reciprocating instruments, 11 compared manual and engine-driven systems, and 11 compared different rotary instruments. Among the 13 studies comparing rotary and reciprocating systems, 5 reported greater bacterial extrusion with the rotary systems, 5 found no significant differences, and 3 reported mixed results. The available evidence indicates a similar or greater apical extrusion of bacteria with rotary systems compared to reciprocating instruments. Additionally, manual preparation is associated with significantly greater bacterial extrusion than the 2 engine-driven methods. The results varied across studies primarily due to methodological differences, particularly the instrumentation systems employed.

Rotary systems extrude similar or greater quantities of bacteria than reciprocating systems. Conversely, manual instrumentation promotes greater bacterial extrusion than the 2 engine-driven methods.