Acta Scientiarum. Health Sciences

Clinical and laboratory evaluation of patients with visceral leishmaniasis undergoing different therapeutic regimens of liposomal amphotericin B

2025-12-03T11:30:00+00:00

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease caused by protozoa of the Leishmania genus and is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected female Lutzomyia sandflies. Several treatment protocols for VL are available, including the utilization of liposomal amphotericin B. Nevertheless, the optimal protocol with the minimal adverse effects remains uncertain. In this context, the present study aims to assess the clinical and laboratory outcomes of patients with VL undergoing two distinct therapeutic regimens of liposomal amphotericin B. A cross-sectional study was conducted to analyze data from the medical records of patients diagnosed with VL between 2015 and 2019 in an endemic area in the northern region of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. All patients in the study were predominantly under the age of 10 years, with 70.4% being male (19 cases). In terms of clinical conditions, fever was present in 92.3% of cases, while splenomegaly and hepatomegaly occurred in 100% of patients. No significant differences were observed between the treatment regimens of liposomal amphotericin B at 4 mg (kg day^-1)^-1 for 5 days and 3 mg (kg day^-1)^-1 for 7 days. The data suggest that patients who received liposomal amphotericin B for both 5 and 7 days exhibited no clinically or laboratory differences compared to those who utilized liposomal amphotericin B for a five-day duration.

The Effect of Technological Device Use Duration of the Children at Pre-school Age on the Relations with Their Parents

2025-12-03T11:30:00+00:00

This study aimed to examine the impact of the parent-child relationship on the duration of technological device use among preschool-aged children. Designed as a cross-sectional analytical study, it was conducted with parents of children aged 3–6 years attending kindergartens and preschools in a district located in the western part of Turkey. The study population consisted of 265 parents, and 263 parents who consented to participate formed the study sample. The sample size was determined using the G*Power analysis program. Data were collected through the Socio-Demographic Characteristics Form, the Parent-Child Relationship Form, and the Technological Device Usage Form. Statistical analyses were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests.The results revealed a significant association between parental education levels and the duration of children's device use. It was observed that children whose parents had lower educational levels spent more time using technological devices. Additionally, children whose fathers were laborers had longer screen times compared to those whose fathers were civil servants. The study also found that children are exposed to technological devices at an early age and spend a considerable amount of time using them. These patterns varied depending on the socio-demographic characteristics of the parents. Furthermore, establishing clear rules regarding device use was found to be an effective strategy in reducing excessive screen time. In conclusion, parental characteristics significantly influence preschool children's use of technological devices. It is recommended that educational programs for parents be expanded, and awareness-raising activities on digital media literacy be implemented to support healthier technology use among young children.

Association between blood types and mortality rates in patients with COVID-19

2025-12-03T11:29:59+00:00

The literature indicates viral pathogens use blood group antigens as receptors. We studied if blood groups of COVID-19 patients differ in disease course and mortality risk.Utilizing a retrospective methodology, we scrutinized medical records of 7919 COVID-19 patients who were hospitalized at a tertiary medical center from March 2020 to February 2022. The patients were separated into two groups based on where they were treated: Group 1: Out-patient (non-hospitalized patients; n = 4908) and Group 2: In-patient (hospitalized patients; n = 3011). Rates of hospitalization, mortality, and demographics of COVID-19 patients were compared based on blood groups. The study population included 3809 (48.1%) female and 4110 (51.9%) male patients. The average age of patients was 53.8 ± 20.39 years. More than half were 65 and older. Blood group A Rh (+) was identified as the predominant one, comprising 39.9% of the total population sample. Age ≥ 65 years and blood group AB Rh (+) were related to greater hospitalization rates (OR = 4.577 and OR = 1.200; respectively) as well as increased mortality rates (OR = 4.448 and OR = 1.339; respectively), whereas O Rh (+) and O Rh (-) had the opposite influence (OR = 0.896 and OR = 0.618 for hospitalization, OR = 0.810 and OR = 0.070 for mortality; respectively). Our research shows strong links between blood types and COVID-19, highlighting the need for personalized care.

Multicomponent aquatic exercises for falls in older people: a randomized clinical trial

2025-12-03T11:30:01+00:00

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aquatic multicomponent exercises on the rate of falls and fear of falling in older people. The older people from the community were randomly divided into two groups: Training Group, underwent training with aquatic multicomponent exercises for 16 weeks; and Control Group, did not undergo training. The multicomponent exercise training in water included warm-up, resistance, balance, and trunk and lower limb muscle activation exercises. Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected. The occurrence of falls was verified by monthly phone calls and fear of falling by the Falls Efficacy Scale International-I. No intra-group and inter-group differences were observed in falls and fear of falling after 16 weeks. The Training Group showed a mean adherence to the training sessions of 75.3%. It is concluded that training with multicomponent aquatic physical exercises did not influence the rate of falls and fear of falling in the sample of community-dwelling older individuals. The small sample size, due to the pandemic period, and the need to interrupt training, as well as the low rate of falls reported by the older people at the beginning of the study may have impacted the findings on the effects of exercises on the occurrence of falls and fear of falling in the participants.

Impact of COVID-19 on cutaneous leishmaniasis trend in Araguaína, Tocantins, Brazil

2025-12-03T11:29:57+00:00

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a serious parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, transmitted by the bite of infected sandflies. This study analyzes the time series of CL in the municipality of Araguaína, Tocantins, Brazil, between 2016 and 2023, focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) were used and statistical analyses of segmented regression and interrupted time series were applied. The pandemic significantly affected CL control programs, resulting in a sharp drop in diagnoses and underreporting of cases. In Araguaína, the incidence of CL increased until 2019, followed by a stabilization at low levels during the pandemic period. However, Tocantins as a whole showed a more pronounced reduction, suggesting greater effectiveness of control measures at the state level. The study highlights the importance of strengthening awareness and vector control campaigns to mitigate the impacts of CL, especially in vulnerable regions. It is concluded that CL control requires an integrated approach that considers the specific socioeconomic and environmental conditions of each region.

Quality of life in patients with lymphedema after treatment for breast cancer

2025-12-03T11:29:57+00:00

The quality of life in patients with breast cancer has improved over the past decade. This study aimed to assess the quality of life in women with lymphedema following treatment for breast cancer. A total of 31 women with posttreatment breast cancer lymphedema, with a mean age of 61.2 years, were evaluated at Clínica Godoy in Brazil. The clinical diagnosis of lymphedema was confirmed using volumetry, perimetry, and InBody S10 bioimpedance. Lymphedema was defined by a volume increase greater than 10% compared to the contralateral limb. All participants were informed about the study and, upon consent, completed the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) quality-of-life questionnaire with appropriate guidance. Data were recorded in Excel and analyzed using Start Direct. Scores varied widely, ranging from 15 to 100. The lowest score was in the pain domain (15), while the highest median score was in social functioning (87.5); the lowest median score was in physical functioning (50). Based on Fisher’s exact test and median values, no domain showed statistically significant superiority over the others. Women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment often experience impairment in at least one aspect of quality of life. Identifying these affected domains is essential for effective patient management.

Epidemiology of surgical site infections in a large tertiary hospital in Southern Brazil

2025-12-03T11:29:55+00:00

To analyze the epidemiological profile of Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) in a large tertiary hospital in Southern Brazil. This is a cross-sectional, prospective, analytical, and quantitative epidemiological study conducted in the surgical center of a tertiary hospital affiliated with the Brazilian Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde, SUS). A total of 283 patients undergoing elective surgical procedures between September and November 2022 were included. Data were collected on the day of surgery and subsequently through telephone follow-up. The surgical site infection rate was 22.30%. [ASA] II score, duration of surgical hand antisepsis, and preoperative bathing were identified as significant risk factors for the development of SSIs. The main factors associated with the development of SSIs in this teaching institution are related to improvements in preoperative care and the practices of the multidisciplinary surgical team.

Polymorphism rs8057341 in the NOD2 gene and its clinical-laboratory association with visceral leishmaniasis

2025-12-03T11:29:54+00:00

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic and debilitating disease with high lethality, characterized by diverse clinical and epidemiological features. Among these, the parasite-host relationship is known to influence disease progression, which can be affected by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes associated with the immune response. The objective of this study was to evaluate the SNP rs8057341 in the NOD2 gene and its clinical-laboratory association with VL. For this purpose, patients diagnosed with VL (n = 28) were studied. The SNP rs8057341 in the NOD2 gene was genotyped using real-time PCR, and patient data were collected from medical records. Our results showed no association between genotypes and the main symptoms of the disease. However, regarding disease severity, most patients had a severe condition (n = 21), a factor influenced by the AG (p = 0.0455) and GG (p = 0.0110) genotypes, compared to the AA genotype. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that the AA genotype of rs8057341 in the NOD2 gene is associated with susceptibility to L. infantum, possibly by impairing the antiparasitic immune response involved in disease control, with probable modulation of IL-17. However, because it may promote a less intense inflammatory response, it could be associated with milder disease manifestations.

Analysis of regulatory guidelines and their impacts on Cannabis-based formulation market in Brazil

2025-12-16T11:30:42+00:00

Cannabis sativa has gained notoriety regarding its medicinal applicability. The free-of-charge offer of products containing cannabinoids in the state of São Paulo (Brazil) emerges as a significant milestone in Brazil's public health history. Although other Brazilian states have not yet foreseen the provision through the Brazilian Public Health System, there is an expectation that they will establish their own respective regulations. An effective national sanitary regulation is crucial to enable the marketing of cannabinoids-containing products with suitable quality, safety and efficacy both the private and public health system. Hence, this review provides a historical analysis of the Brazilian regulations about cannabinoids commercialization, highlighting current regulatory and pharmaceutical development limitations. The commercialization of these products began due to population demand, which led the Brazilian regulatory agency to approve a resolution authorizing the importation of Cannabis-based products. The current national regulatory framework impacts the pharmaceutical development of these products as it limits administration routes and the use of new pharmaceutical technologies. Furthermore, there is also a commercial impact, considering that manufacturers must comply with the requirements of the Pharmaceutical Inspection Cooperation Scheme. Currently, two main resolutions guide the marketing flow of these products in Brazil and further advances are needed to achieve products with quality, efficacy, and safety, which will enable a free public supply to the Brazilian population.

E-cigarette users: Association between the demographic profile of smokers and harmful health symptoms

2025-12-03T11:29:56+00:00

This research seeks to analyze the socioeconomic profile of e-cigarette users, their frequency of use and symptoms induced by e-cigarettes. It is composed of 562 participants and divided into three stages: approach via social media, data collection by means of a self-administered online questionnaire, and descriptive data analysis. The demographic profile was characterized by young university students with higher education and middle/upper class income. The most prevalent symptoms were throat irritation and/or hoarseness (56.3%), cough (57.4%), nasal congestion (27.6%), anxiety (21.4%). In conclusion the results verified the association of demographic profile aspects, which pointed to a tendency for older individuals with a higher socioeconomic status to present more symptoms resulting from the use of electronic cigarettes; a greater proportion of individuals who reported not having knowledge about the composition of e-liquids was found, and this fact was associated with a greater presence and prevalence of symptoms harmful to health.

Prevalence of Uncontrolled Hypertension and Its Associated Factors among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Southern Iran

2025-12-16T11:30:42+00:00

Hypertension (HTN) is the leading cause of premature death, making its control crucial. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and its associated factors among healthcare workers in Southern Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted using the registration data from the Employee Health Cohort Study. Uncontrolled HTN was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 80 mmHg in HTN patients on-treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression with a significance level of p<0.05. Out of 5,925 healthcare workers, 381 had hypertension, with 358 (93%) receiving treatment. Among those treated, 241 (67%) had uncontrolled HTN. Factors associated with uncontrolled HTN were male sex (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.84 – 5.06), duration of HTN (OR = 1.90, 95% CI:1.03 – 3.48), physical activity (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18 – 0.66) and diabetes (OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27 – 0.97). This study showed a high prevalence of uncontrolled HTN among health workers in southern Iran. Key associated factors included sex, duration of HTN, physical activity and diabetic. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions to address modifiable risk factors and improve the management and control of HTN among healthcare workers.

Exploring the Relationship Between Work Life Quality and Professional Ethics Among Dentists

2025-12-03T11:29:59+00:00

This study aimed to assess the relationship between Work Life Quality and Professional Ethics Among Dentists. A single-phase survey study involving 68 dentists was carried out. Data was collected using Work Life Quality, and Gregory's Work Ethics Questionnaires. The data was analyzed using descriptive analysis, unpaired t-test, Analysis of Variance,Pearson correlation coefficient, and a Simple Linear Regression Analysis. Our findings indicated that 51.5% of participants (n = 35) reported a high level of work-related quality of life and 88.2% of participants have a high work ethic. Significant differences were observed between the work quality of life and type of organizational activity (p = 0.019). Dentists in private practice reported the highest mean score (68.21), while those in public positions had the lowest (53.19). A significant positive correlation was between work quality of life and work ethic (r = 0.35, p = 0.003). The study found that a substantial proportion of dentists reported high work quality of life, which was positively correlated with their adherence to work ethics. These findings suggest that improving work ethics can enhance the quality of life for dentists in both professional and personal contexts.

A cross-sectional assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice of dentists regarding acute herpetic gingivostomatitis in children

2025-12-03T11:29:58+00:00

Acute herpetic gingivostomatitis (AHGS) is the oral manifestation of HVS-1 primary infection. Despite being a self-limiting infection, AHGS can progress to severe complications. Dentists should be prepared to correctly diagnose and treat the disease. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of dentists regarding acute herpetic gingivostomatitis (AHGS) among children. A cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out through a KAP Survey of 416 Brazilian dentists. Descriptive analyzes with absolute and relative frequencies were performed and possible associations between socio-demographic variables with the KAP questions were investigated using Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests (significance level 5%). Results revealed high knowledge scores among 68% of the dentists. The worst knowledge scores were found for AHGS complications. High scores were only associated with degree of education (p<0.005). For the treatment of AHGS, the responses were variable and signaled possible overtreatment in practice. Therapeutic possibilities beyond acyclovir are still lacking. This study highlights the importance of providing continuous education and integrating the practice of oral pathology into the practice of dentistry. It can help to increase knowledge, avoid overtreatment, and stimulate decision-making by the dentist in cases of complications.

Histological analysis of Isradipine, a calcium channel inhibitor, on wound healing following dental extraction in rats

2025-12-03T11:29:55+00:00

The use of drugs to promote bone regeneration and accelerate tissue repair is a growing field of research, especially in cases of significant bone loss. Isradipine, a calcium channel blocker traditionally used to treat hypertension, has shown potential effects on bone metabolism, suggesting a possible role in promoting bone repair processes. The present study investigated bone repair after tooth extraction in Wistar rats and assessed the effects of Isradipine administration. Forty-eight male rats, approximately 90 days old and weighing an average of 250 g, were randomly divided into two groups: Control and Experimental. In the Control group, only the extraction of the upper left central incisor was performed, whereas in the Experimental group, Isradipine (2.5 mg) was administered intraperitoneally after tooth extraction. The animals were euthanized at days 3, 7, 14, and 21 for histological analysis of bone repair. Histological analysis revealed that, at 3 days, both groups showed sockets filled with blood clots and initial inflammatory cells, without bone trabeculae. By day 7, the Control group exhibited immature osteoid tissue, whereas the Experimental group had a greater number of fibroblasts. At days 14 and 21, bone formation advanced in both groups, with denser bone tissue observed in the Experimental group. These findings underscore the potential of Isradipine to enhance bone repair and suggest promising avenues for the application of calcium channel blockers in bone tissue bioengineering.

Morphometric evaluation of the sella turcica relating to age, sex and facial skeletal pattern: a cross-sectional comparative study of cone beam computed tomography

2025-12-03T11:29:58+00:00

The aim of this study was to measure and evaluate the morphology of the sella turcica (ST) using CBCT and relate the data obtained with the facial skeletal pattern (Classes I, II and III), sex and age of the individuals. Measurements of length, depth, diameter, length of the anterior cranial base length and ST volume were collected. The ST bridge was evaluated according to the relationship between length and anteroposterior diameter, following the Leonardi standard as type 1 (no calcification), type 2 (partial calcification) and type 3 (complete calcification). The sample consisted of 180 individuals, divided according to age group, sex and facial skeletal pattern. The results showed that measurements of length, depth, diameter, volume and anterior cranial base are greater in males (p<0.001). Individuals under 40 years of age had larger ST length and anterior cranial base measurements (p<0.038 and p<0.032, respectively). Individuals with a class I facial skeletal pattern had a larger length and diameter than those in class II and a larger anterior cranial base than those in class III (p<0.031, p<0.012 and p<0.014, respectively). There was a statistically significant difference for variant ST formats (irregular and pyramidal) for females and individuals over 40 years old (p = 0.003 and p<0.001 respectively). ST morphology and morphometry can be influenced by factors such as sex, age and facial skeletal patterns.