Acta Scientiarum. Health Sciences

Effect of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplementation in patients with HIV

Elaine Cristina Birssi — 2025-03-28

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a global public health problem that affects thousands of people annually. One of the main comorbidities identified in HIV-positive patients undergoing antiretroviral treatment is insufficiency of vitamin D, a key hormone involved in physiological and metabolic processes in the human body. This review aimed to evaluate the importance of vitamin D3 supplementation in HIV-positive patients with serum concentrations below the recommended limits. The literature search included indexed articles published from 2015 to 2023. The article search strategy included the databases of the National Library of Medicine (PUBMED) and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO). Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related opportunistic pathologies are the main causes of morbidity and mortality despite the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy. Several studies have shown that hypovitaminosis D is diagnosed during HIV progression and may be associated with reduced survival rates, highlighting the importance of measuring vitamin D serum levels and providing exogenous vitamin D3 supplementationif needed for these patients. Several studies have pointed out the benefits of vitamin D3 supplementation in HIV-infected patients, independent of antiretroviral treatment, such as the reduction of inflammatory processes and mediators related to bone renewal, increase in CD4 + T lymphocyte count, and increase in antibacterial response against invading microorganisms. Given the importance of this disease worldwide, which is associated with a high number of deaths, there is justification for intensifying and deepening research on the potential and significant role of vitamin D3 supplementation_.

Influence of Garcinia cambogia extract on metabolic profile, weight loss, and eating behavior of humans

Danielle Carvalho Sant'Ana — 2025-03-28

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Garcinia cambogia extract to cause changes in body composition, biochemical parameters, and eating behavior in overweight and obese individuals. Thirty-four female volunteers between 20 and 61 years of age, BMI ≥ 25 Kg/m² were divided into two groups: control and treatment. Both groups received a diet plan and the treatment group received 500 mg of G. cambogia extract three times a day for a period of 4 weeks. Weight loss and body composition were assessed by anthropometry and bioimpedance data; the biochemical parameters analyzed were: total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, fasting glucose, urea, creatinine, creatinine clearance, and transaminases. The eating behavior was assessed using the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire. The treatment group showed a significant difference (p<0.05) in creatinine values, creatinine clearance, waist circumference, basal metabolism rate, and cognitive restraint eating behavior when compared to the control group. Other parameters evaluated, essentially body weight and body mass index, suffered significant changes resulting from experimental intervention in both control and treatment groups. G. cambogia extract showed an assistant action to the dietary plan. It resulted in improvements in morphological and biochemical parameters such as decrease in waist circumference, an increase in basal metabolism rate, a decrease in creatinine value, improvement in creatinine clearance, and an increased cognitive restraint on eating behavior. Therefore, G. cambogia extract represents a complementary alternative for overweight and obese individuals.

Building and validation of wireframe for software prototype aimed at occupational vaccines

Joice Rodrigues Machado Hahn — 2025-04-15

To build and validate the functionality and interface of the wireframe of a software prototype for managing worker vaccinations. Study of technological production, based on User-Centered Design (UCD) and Scrum framework, with an exploratory and descriptive design using a quantitative approach. Study approved by the Research Ethics Committee (Opinion number 5.040.951/2021). The wireframe modeling of the software prototype was built in Bizagi Modeler® and validated by experts. The functionality and interface were considered satisfactory at 92% to 100%, respectively. The items with the lowest agreement were related to contraindications and information about vaccination coverage being in a place that was easy to view and understand, which reached a CI of 0.83. In the global validation of the wireframe, the experts’ agreement reached a CI of 96%. The building of the wireframe took into account end user interaction. The validation of the software prototype wireframe provides an excellent CI result, which was achieved in all of its evaluated items. The software is able to optimize nurses’ time in the management and control of vaccines in occupational health services, which contributes to increasing workers’ vaccination coverage and protecting the community.

Functional capacity, health impact, and risk of sarcopenia in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Janine Bosi Tonel — 2025-07-10

This study aimed to verify the functional capacity of individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its associated factors. This study is a cross-sectional, observational study with quantitative data analysis. It was performed with patients previously diagnosed with any degree of COPD: I (mild), II (moderate), III (severe), and IV (very severe). Functional capacity was assessed using the six-minute step test (6MST), the risk for sarcopenia was identified using the SARC-F + CC questionnaire, and the clinical impact of COPD was quantified using the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) questionnaire. Moreover, primary data were collected from the patients to identify associated factors. The results of the 37 patients evaluated (59.5% female; 81.1% elderly), 30 (81.1%) had reduced functional capacity. Out of these, 53.3% were at risk for sarcopenia and 93.3 % were somehow clinically impacted by COPD. Their impact was classified into mild to moderate (53.3%) and severe and very severe (40%). Furthermore, most patients (60%) had a recent diagnosis and almost all of them (96.7%) were smokers or former smokers. In conclusion, most patients had reduced functional capacity which was significantly associated with dyspnea and risk of sarcopenia.

Knowledge Attitude and Practice Regarding Diabetes Mellitus Among General Population in Karachi

Shazia Dawood — 2025-07-10

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia, leading to complications such as heart disease, blindness, and kidney disease. This study aims to analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning DM among the general population in Karachi, Pakistan, and identify factors influencing these aspects. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to July 2023 using a Google survey form. The study included 642 participants. The results showed that 75.7% of participants had significant knowledge about the association between diabetes and eye ailments. However, only 51.9% engaged in regular exercise to maintain blood sugar levels, and 38.3% followed a proper diet plan. Additionally, 73.4% showed a lack of interest in visiting an endocrinologist, while 75.7% attended annual eye check-ups. Only 38.3% underwent HbA1C testing for diabetes monitoring, and 87.4% had not experienced hospitalization due to diabetes-related complications. The study concludes that while the majority had adequate knowledge about diabetes and its risk factors, there was a lack of focus on effective diabetes control practices. Intensive health education regarding DM and its associated illnesses should be conducted among the general public, diabetic patients, and their caregivers to enhance understanding and compliance with DM management and eye care, ultimately preventing complications in Karachi.

Social support, physical and mental health, and alcohol and tobacco use in cancer patients in the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil

Juliana Benevenuto Reis — 2025-07-10

This study aimed to examine the association between sociodemographic characteristics and extremes of social support in patients with cancer in the state of Mato Grosso. This study compared the levels of social support (high and low) with patients' physical and mental health, as well as their alcohol and/or tobacco use. Method: Cross-sectional study with 765 patients undergoing cancer treatment in Mato Grosso, Brazil, from 2019 to 2021. This study examined sociodemographic data, information about physical and mental health, patterns of alcohol and tobacco use, and social support. Poor social support was defined as having an MOS-SSS score below the 25 percentile for the entire sample. Results: As expected, individuals with a high level of social support exhibited better mental health and reduced alcohol and tobacco use. Conversely, individuals with smaller social networks and no religious affiliation had lower levels of social support and were more prone to depressive symptoms, suicidal thoughts, respiratory diseases, and metastasis. However, patients with a low level of social support had a lower-than-expected level of alcohol/tobacco use. In addition, contrary to previous studies, participants with high social support did not engage in binge drinking to the same extent as expected. Conclusion: Health professionals in oncology services must be aware of mental health problems, particularly substance use, and of the importance of monitoring social support in this population.

Overweight and Associated Factors: A Study in Adults from the Interior of Northeast Brazil

Paula Thianara de Freitas Santos — 2025-07-10

To verify the occurrence of overweight and associated factors in adults of a region in the inland of northeast Brazil. A cross-sectional study of population based with probability sampling, involving adults aged 20 to 59 years. Data collection was based on anthropometric measurements of weight and height, according to the World Health Organization, in addition to the application of a questionnaire comprising questions referring to demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral and presence of chronic diseases. Overweight was determined for body mass index (IMC) ≥ 25kg/m². The logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between overweight and the variables explanations. A number of 345 individuals were evaluated. The prevalence of overweight was 54.4%. In the final model, it was witnessed 105 overweight females (OR = 2.36; IC95%: 1.177-4.758; p = 0.016), age 30 to 39 years old (OR = 2.12; IC95%: 1.016 – 4.435; p = 0.045), and those who hypertension (OR = 3.18; IC95%: 1.337-7.587; p = 0.009). More than half of the population of adults from an inland region of north-eastern Brazil were overweight, corroborating the context of nutritional transition present in several parts of our country and of the world. In addition, the factors sex, age and hypertension were associated with this profile, conferring a multifactorial characteristic in the etiology of this problem.

Evaluation of the effect of black radish juice on the treatment or prevention of stone formation induced by ethylene glycol in rat

Mojtaba Komeili — 2025-07-10

Ethylene glycol (EG)-induced urolithiasis is a common type of kidney stone formation that is caused by the metabolism of EG to oxalate. Black radish juice has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial in treating or preventing kidney stones. The study aimed to investigate the effects of black radish juice on the treatment and prevention of ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis in rats. Forty-eight wester rats were randomly divided into six groups of 8 and treated with ethylene glycol alone, ethylene glycol + black radish juice, or served as controls. Black radish juice was found to significantly increase urine flow and pH, decrease crystal content in the urine, and reduce the number and size of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys of rats. There were also measurable changes in blood levels of AST, ALT, and calcium. However, urine pH levels decreased significantly in the model group, while oxalate levels remained unchanged across all groups. The study suggests that black radish juice may have a protective effect against ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis in rats, but acknowledges the limitations in study design and ethical concerns. The findings cannot definitively claim the effectiveness of black radish juice in the prevention or treatment of kidney stones.

Determining Nomophobia and Netlessphobia Levels in Gifted and Talented Children

Sureyya Nur — 2025-07-10

The aim of this study is to determine the levels of nomophobia and netlessphobia in gifted and talented children. The variables of nomophobia and netlessphobia are strongly and positively correlated, r(106) = .63, p < .01. According to the ordinal logistic regression analysis, girls are 4.25 times more likely to experience nomophobia than boys (OR = 4.25, 95% CI [0.65, 2.25]). Additionally, gifted adolescents whose mothers are permanently employed are 2.62 times more likely to experience nomophobia than those whose mothers are not employed in a permanent job (OR = 2.62, 95% CI [0.16, 1.77]). Exposure to electromagnetic waves is believed to potentially cause hearing problems, brain stimulation effects, and even brain tumors. The strong correlation between nomophobia and netlessphobia highlights the risks associated with excessive digital device use. Considering the potential psychological and physiological effects, interventions that promote responsible technology use are essential.

How to advance legal education for future environmental health

Roya Peirovi-Minaee — 2025-07-10

Legal education is a fundamental component of professional training in environmental health. As environmental health graduates are often responsible for disease prevention, as health experts, they need to receive the necessary training related to various work issues and possible aspects related to it during their student life. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the legal training program for environmental health students. This quasi-experimental study was conducted between 2020 and 2022 among 55 undergraduate students of environmental health at the Environmental Health Engineering Department of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences (EHEDGUMS). The sample was selected using the census method. The workshop addressed students' educational needs regarding legal training. The researcher-made questionnaire assessing knowledge and attitudes toward legal issues was completed before and one month after the training. Data were analyzed by SPSS software, version 22. The average legal knowledge scores before and after the intervention were 14.1 ± 2.7 and 21.19 ± 4.79, respectively. There was a significant difference between the knowledge scores before and after the educational intervention (p < 0.05). The mean attitude score toward legal issues increased from 95.6 ± 4.12 before the intervention to 104.5 ± 4.06 afterward, showing a significant improvement (p < 0.05). The legal training program has proven effective for environmental health students. It can improve various aspects of professional development, such as satisfaction, motivation, commitment, implementation, and barrier removal. Integrating "Legal Learnin" into the environmental health internship curriculum is recommended.

Body dissatisfaction, muscle dysmorphia and attitudes towards doping in exercise practitioners: a study regarding gender, educational level and age group

Nathan Leonardo Gomes Costa — 2025-04-15

Body dissatisfaction (BD) is a conception constructed from influences since childhood, with the practice of exercise being an alternative to obtain the ideal body. Muscle dysmorphia (MD) is characterized as an exaggerated visualization of body imperfections and can lead to the search for substances such as anabolic steroids (AAS). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to compare body image (BI), MD and attitudes towards doping according to gender, educational level and age group of exercise practitioners at gyms. A total of 264 individuals (92 men and 172 women), with a mean age of 27.43 years (SD = 7.03), participated in the study. The instruments used were the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), the Questionnaire of Attitudes towards Doping in Fitness (QAD-fit) and the Adonis Complex questionnaire (ACQ). Data analysis was conducted using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, independent Student’s t-tests and MANOVA (p<0.05). The results showed a higher BD among women, and more behaviors towards doping in the males (p<0.05). A positive relationship was found between attitudes towards doping in individuals who had completed high school. Also, higher scores for attitudes and beliefs towards doping in the age group of 31-40 years was found. It is concluded that sociodemographic factors such as gender, age group and educational level maybe involved in BD, MD and in behaviors towards doping in people who practice exercise at gyms.

The effect of spiritual well-being scale level on general comfort in patients with two different chronic diseases (HF, COPD)

Ummuhan Akturk — 2025-04-15

This research was conducted to compare the spiritual beliefs and comfort levels of patients with heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This research was conducted between January- November 2021 a Hospital in City Center. The research population comprises (HF), (COPD) patients hospitalized a Hospital in the City. In the study, 232 patients were reached. In the study, data were collected from the patients with the survey, Spiritual Well- being Scale and General Comfort Scale, during weekdays, using face-to-face interview technique with patients in their rooms. When we look at the effect of Spiritual Beliefs on General Comfort level in 2 chronic disease groups in the study, it is seen that Heart Failure patients with 13.7% and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary patients 0.19%. In the study, the effects of psychological beliefs and socio-demographic characteristics on the comfort level of patients with heart failure and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are higher.

Nursing interventions during the covid-19 pandemic: The decisive role of patients’ dependency levels

Nurcan Bilgin — 2025-04-15

To determine the dependency levels of patients and the nursing interventions in a pandemic clinic, and to examine the decisive role of patient dependency levels in nursing interventions. This research is a retrospective descriptive study. The sample of the research was composed of 108 Covid-19 patients hospitalized in Turkey. The data was obtained from electronic patient records of the hospital. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, and Chi-square test for trend analysis. In this research, 49.1% of the Covid-19 patients hospitalized were in moderately and highly dependent patient groups. Indirect nursing interventions were performed to all patients, and direct nursing interventions determined based on patients’ needs were not performed to all patients. It was found that there was a linear relationship between all nursing interventions and dependency levels (p < 0.001). It was concluded that the dependency levels of patients and the nursing interventions performed by nurses were affected in the Covid-19 pandemic. Nurse managers should take into account that patients’ dependency levels affect the implementation of nursing interventions and ensure that patient care is provided by considering their dependency levels during the pandemic process.

The effect of self-breast examination training provided to women between 18 and 49 years of age and practice on the belief of breast health: A randomized controlled study

Merve Yazar — 2025-07-10

İncrease and implementation of training programs in order to recognize the risk factors of breast cancer,in women, at an early stage and to increase their awareness of their own bodies are very important. The aim of the present research was to detect the effect of self-breast examination provided to women between 18 and 49 years of age and practice on the belief of women on their breast health. The research is a randomized controlled interventional design including a pre-test and post-test. The universe of the research consisted of the female parents of the students studying in two schools where the research was conducted. The research sample consisted of 98 women, 45 in the intervention group and 53 in the control group, selected by simple random sampling. It was detected that the perception of disability increased from 14.86 ± 3.53 to 16.51 ± 2.62, and the sense of confidence increased from 24.35 ± 5.41 to 31.20 ± 4.86 in the intervention group after the training (p<0.01).It was detected at the end of the study that women had a positive attitude towards the practices to prevent breast cancer after the training. It was detected that there was a significant decrease in the level of barriers perceived by women to take protective measures. Nurses gain basic knowledge and skills BSE practice to be a role model for other women in the society, and organize appropriate training programs in order to encourage BSE awareness and practices.

Nursing students’ views on individuals with disabilities in disaster situations: A Qualitative Study

Çiğdem Müge Haylı — 2025-07-10

This study qualitatively determines the views of nursing students toward individuals with disabilities in disaster situations. Qualitative data were collected between January 18 and April 30, 2024. The study group consisted of 1st and 2nd class nursing program students at Hakkari University Faculty of Health Sciences in Turkey. To determine the students’ views on individuals with disabilities in disaster situations, focus group interviews were conducted; data collection was completed for 35 students, after which data saturation was reached. Sociodemographic data and semi-structured individual interview questions were used to determine the aforementioned views of nursing students. A descriptive/thematic approach was used to analyze the data, and coding and analysis were performed using the MAXQDA qualitative data analysis program. The interviews revealed six main themes: ‘Unique Characteristics of Individuals with Disabilities,’ ‘Self-Efficacy,’ ‘Social/Emotional/ Psychological Attitudes,’ ‘Communication/ Alternative Communication,’ ‘Social Factors,’ and ‘Safety and Treatment.’ Disaster situations negatively impact individuals with disabilities. In addition to determining nursing students’ views on such individuals during disasters, our results can provide help and support.

The relationship between nurses’ professional commitment and caring behaviors: A cross‐sectional study

Nimet Gokce Bekdik — 2025-07-10

This study aimed to examine the relationship between nurses' professional commitment and caring behaviors. This was a cross-sectional-correlational research design. Study conducted with 293 nurses. Data were collected between January and March 2023. Ethics committee approval and informed written consent of the participant were obtained for the study. The data were collected by using the ‘Nurse Information Form’, ‘Caring Behaviours Inventory-24 (CBI-24)’ and ‘Nursing Professional Commitment Scale (NPCS)’. It was found that the mean score of the NPCS was 82.71 ± 14.306. and of the CBI-24 was 5.38 ± 0.653. Nurses’ professional commitment and caring behaviors were high. It was found that the NPCS total and subscales’ scores have positively correlations with the total and sub-scores of CBI-24. However, this relationship was weak (r = 0.421, p < .001). Professional commitment explained 17% of the variance in caring behaviors. Professional commitment and caring behaviors are at a high level in nursing. However, there is no significant relationship between nurses' professional commitment and caring behaviors. These findings may provide ideas for managers to strengthen nurses' professional commitment and increase their caring behaviors. Thus, health policies related to nurses can be developed.

Recommendations for the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management of Gestational and Congenital Toxoplasmosis in Brazil

Lara Ferreiro Cassemiro — 2025-04-15

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. It presents severity in patients of certain risk groups, such as pregnant women, fetuses, newborns, and immunocompromised patients. The diagnosis of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis still poses doubts among healthcare professionals. To perform an analysis of Brazilian official documents with recommendations regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and management of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis in the country. Official manuals published up to 10 years ago were included in the analysis. Through the analysis of five manuals, it was possible to verify that the diagnosis of gestational toxoplasmosis is primarily performed through immunological tests, with the anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG avidity test being the best choice for confirming acute disease in pregnant women. For the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis, the most indicated diagnostic tools are the detection of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG antibodies and computed tomography for newborns, and Polymerase Chain Reaction of amniotic fluid during gestation. There is a consensus regarding the treatment and management of gestational and congenital toxoplasmosis in the studied manuals, with spiramycin and pyrimethamine being the drugs of choice for the treatment of pregnant women and newborns, respectively. It is noteworthy that all recommended drugs are available in the Unified Health System (SUS). However, there is still no drug with suitable pharmaceutical presentation for administration in newborns. In this context, prophylaxis is essential for reducing the occurrence of the disease in pregnant women, through proper hygiene and cooking of raw food.

Effects of associating linalool with nystatin and fluconazole against Candida albicans strains from vulvovaginal secretions

Cássio Ilan Soares Medeiros — 2025-04-15

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is one of the most common fungal infections in women, at some point in their lives affecting approximately 75% of this population. It is primarily caused by the fungus Candida albicans and can be triggered by many factors, such as antibiotic use, diabetes, pregnancy, and use of hormonal contraceptives. The current large increase in mycotic infections caused by C. albicans and frequent therapeutic failure of conventional antifungals, when added to the development of microorganism resistance has led to the need for antifungal studies on the capacity of monoterpenes. Monoterpenes present excellent microbicidal potential in addition to their capacity in combination therapies. Our work aimed to investigate the effects of associating the monoterpene linalool with the antifungal drugs nystatin and fluconazole against C. albicans strains from vulvovaginal secretions. In vitro microdilution assays were conducted in RPMI-1640 broth, and the Checkerboard method applied, using amphotericin B as a control. The study results indicate linalool’s strong anti-C. albicans activity and synergism with fluconazole. Linalool presented a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI = 0.25) against C. albicans ATCC 76485. However, linalool in combination with nystatin resulted in an indifferent effect. Yet linalool presented antifungal potential, as its association with fluconazole reversed C. albicans resistance in in vitro assays.

Significance level of uric acid in serum to predict mortality in patients with acute kidney injury

Naveed Sarwar — 2025-03-28

Acute kidney injury is widely recognized in acute urate nephropathy, but hyperuricemia is now considered as a threat for acute kidney injury and its mortality. The objective of the study was to observe the effect of uric acid levels in patients with acute kidney injury as a predictor of mortality. A cross-sectional study was conducted at inpatients nephrology department of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad from May 2019 to May 2020. The outcome of the study was measured in terms of normal and elevated uric acid levels in acute kidney injury patients. 196 patients with acute kidney injury, who were followed up through history, examination and serum markers included in this study. The association of the outcome with serum uric acid levels was analyzed using the chi-square test.The mean age of the patients was 46.54 ± 19.06 years. It included 115 (58.7%) males and 81 (41.3%) females. The average level of uric acid was 7.29 ± 2.35 mg/dL. 158 (80.6%) patients were discharged and 38 (19.4%) expired. Serum uric acid is positively interrelated with renal function test levels. The correlation was significant with a p-value ≤ 0.05. The mean uric acid of individuals who expired was significantly more than the mean uric acid of discharged patients (p = 0.0001). Out of 158 discharged patients 56 (35.44%) had hyperuricemia and out of 38 expired patients 32 (84.2%) had hyperuricemia. As a result, it was seen that among the patients who had expired increased levels of uric acid were seen (p>0.0001). The study concluded that high uric acid is a predictor of the outcome of patients with acute kidney injury.

Combined effects of dry needling and strain counter strain technique in myofascial trigger points of upper trapezius

Aqsa Aroob — 2025-03-28

The aim of the study was to evaluate the combined effects of dry needling and strain counter strain in myofascial trigger points of upper trapezius. A randomized control trial was conducted in physiotherapy department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan between July and September 2020. Patients had rigid band, local tenderness, referred pain, localized twitch response and jump sign, both gender male and female, age 20-40 years, the presence of active symptomatic trigger points in upper trapezius, pain presented in the cervical and occipital region were included. Total 28 patients which had been divided into two groups by randomization (study group & control group). Interventions/data collection tools; conventional physiotherapy in study group-A (n = 14) and strain counter strain only with baseline treatment in control group-B (n = 14). Patients were treated in the span of 8 weeks (2 treatment sessions/0-2 week then 1 treatment session/2-4 week and baseline treatment session/4-8 week). The data was collected using VAS, goniometer and neck disability index questionnaire. The mean age of 25.65 ± 4.05 years in group-A and 20.55 ± 3.25 in group-B. At the end of treatment, the mean pain score was 1.07 ± 0.27 for study group and 1.86 ± 3.63 for control group (p ≤ 0.05). The mean of neck disability index score was 1.79 ± 0.58 for study group and 2.64 ± 0.50 for control group (p ≤ 0.05). The mean of cervical right lateral flexion was 35.93 ± 3.81 for study group and 30.79 ± 3.24 for control group (p ≤ 0.05). The study concluded that combined technique of dry needling and strain counter strain is effective in trigger point’s reduction, pain improvement and also improved ranges of motion.

Serum overexpression of microRNA-454-3p in patients with colorectal cancer and determine its correlation with pathological characteristics

Setareh Naeimi — 2025-04-15

This study aimed to evaluate serum overexpression of microRNA-454-3p in patients with colorectal cancer and determine its correlation with pathological characteristics. Exosomes isolated from the serum of 40 CRC patients and 30 healthy subjects by Exoquick kit solution, were characterized using SEM. The expression of miR-454-3p was assessed in both healthy and CRC patients using the RT-PCR method. Then, by ROC analysis, the capability of this microRNA as a biomarker was determined. P-value < 0.05 was determined as significant. The results of the study showed that the rate of microRNA-454-3pexpression in the samples of CRC patients was significantly higher than in the control population (p < 0.01). Also, the expression of microRNA-454-3pin stage III of the disease showed a significant increase, compared to stages I and II (p < 0.05).miR-942-5p expression in CRC patients with lymphatic metastasis was significantly higher than those with no metastasis to their lymph nodes (P-value < 0.05). Also, the sensitivity and specificity of miR-454-3p were found to be 79 and 99%, respectively (with an area under the ROC curve [AUC] of 0.89). It seems that the increased expression of the microRNA-454-3p gene has a role in the pathogenesis of CRC and also the expression of this gene is associated with the stage of cancer.

Sleep quality amongst medical students

Guillermo Insfran Mendez — 2025-07-10

Sleep is a physiological-rhythmic state characterized by the loss of consciousness and responsiveness, during which crucial processes for learning and metabolism occur. Therefore, maintaining adequate sleep quality is essential. The objective of this study was to describe the sleep quality of medical students in Paraguay during the first semester of 2024. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on medical students in Paraguay. Data were collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics v.23 software. A total of 466 students participated, with an average age of 21.30 years (SD ± 3.08); and 58.8% were male. The majority resided in Asunción (54.7%). 51.1% reported poor subjective sleep quality, primarily first-year students (59.5%). Sleep latency difficulties were noted by 33.9% weekly, while 42.1% slept 5-6 hours, and 27% less than 5 hours. Sleep efficiency exceeded 85% for 59.9%, and 48.9% experienced monthly sleep disturbances. Only 25% used sleep medication, which positively affected sleep quality (p = 0.02). Daytime dysfunction affected 35.8%, mainly among sixth-year students. Overall, 64.4% had moderate sleep quality, 27.5% had poor sleep quality, and only 8.2% reported good sleep quality. Medical students in Paraguay presented moderate to poor sleep quality, with first-year students being the most affected.

Technological and food potential of Acrocomia aculeate vegetal beverage

Barbarah Gabriella Esteves de Sousa — 2025-03-28

The study evaluated the physical, chemical, technological and microbiological characteristics of the vegetable drink from A. aculeata, in different proportions of pulp dilution: water (1:10, 1:15 and 1:20 m/m), extraction temperatures (30, 50 and 80ºC), after thermal treatment at 60ºC20min^-1 and in natural conditions. Titratable acidity values were below 0.1%, indicating low levels of organic acids. The pH varied close to neutrality (pH 6-8), favoring the non-precipitation of proteins. The soluble solids contents were low, varying from 1 to 2 °Brix before the heat treatment, and from 0.3 to 1.6 after the treatment, with a low °Brix content, which can be explained by the low acidity content, giving a more pleasant taste to the palate. The extraction temperature influenced the technological parameters of color and viscosity, with extractions at 30°C showing more yellowish tones, while those performed at 50 and 80°C had more orange tones. Viscosity increased with increasing temperature, and the results were superior to those found in other studies with vegetable beverages. The microbiological analyzes were carried out in accordance with the microbiological standards recommended by the legislation, and were considered suitable for consumption, indicating that the thermal treatment was efficient to inactivate and reduce the microbiota present in the fruits. Cluster analysis was performed using the dendrogram and principal components (PCA) in order to investigate the association between the combinations of extraction temperature, dilution ratio and undergoing or not through heat treatment. The results obtained show that the extraction temperature factor (30, 50 and 80°C) within the same dilution ratio (1:10, 1:15 and 1:20), did not generate statistically significant difference. We concluded that it was possible to produce an extract of bocaiuva pulp with great technological and nutritional potential, with guaranteed food safety and free from pathogenic microorganisms.

Retrospective study on the accuracy of the cone beam computed tomography technique in detecting the mesiopalatal canal in upper second molars

Isabela Inoue Kussaba — 2025-03-28

Knowing the anatomy and morphology of the maxillary molar canals and the location of the MV2 are extremely important for endodontist clinics. This study evaluated the morphology of the maxillary second molar and the incidence of the Mesiopalatal canal using cone beam computed tomography. Retrospective secondary data were collected from patients of a reference radiology clinic in Maringá, state of Paraná, undergoing imaging exams in a Prexion 3D scanner. Images were analyzed in the axial, sagittal, and coronal sections. When MV2 was identified, it was categorized according to the Vertucci’s Classification. Descriptive analysis was performed for age, gender, the morphology of the maxillary second molar, the presence of the second buccal canal, and classification according to its morphology. A total of 173 patients were analyzed, and 230 maxillary second molars were found, with the presence of the Mesiopalatal in 29.1%. The type IV Vertucci classification was the most frequent (40.3%). The study concluded that there is an expressive occurrence of the second buccal canal in 29.1% of cases, and the most recurrent morphology is type IV, according to Vertucci’s classification.

Gender and age determination through linear and volumetric measurements of the sphenoid sinus using CBCT images

Isabela Inoue Kussaba — 2025-03-28

This retrospective, observational, longitudinal study carried out a morphometric analysis of CBCT images of the sphenoid sinus to evaluate whether they can be used to determine gender and age in a mixed Brazilian population. 200 CBCT scans (100 females; 100 males) were retrospectively selected and the linear (maximum height, width, length) and volumetric measurements were taken in the right and left sphenoid sinuses. The sample was also divided according to age in 18-40 (n = 123) and>40 years (n = 77). The sinus volume was calculated using a formula (a multivariate discriminant analysis) and a software program, and the results were compared. All data were subjected to statistical analysis (p<0.05). Only the volume of the right sphenoid sinus showed a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) between the genders, with lower values for females. Most measurements were higher in group 18-40 years (p<0.05). There was no difference between the volumes calculated using the formula and the software. The overall gender determination accuracy rate was 60.08%. For the>40 years group, the discriminant analysis achieved an accuracy index of 74%. Morphometric measurements of the sphenoid sinus in CBCT exams are useful for gender and age estimation in adult Brazilians. The greatest accuracy is obtained for determining age when individuals are over 40 years old.

Evaluation of the bristle characteristics and effects of denture brushes on acrylic resin

Ana Emanuela Cisne de Lima — 2025-04-15

Specific denture brushes were evaluated in regards to characteristics of the bristles (thickness, bristle ends, and deterioration) and their effects (mass variation, surface roughness, and gloss) on acrylic resin after simulated brushing periods of 3 (T1), 6 (T2), and 12 months (T3). For their effects on acrylic resin, specimens were randomly distributed (n = 13): BI: Bitufo; CB: Curaprox; PP: Prosthesisplus; CO: Condor; OB: Oral B; OF: Orafix; and Control: Curaprox 5460. The specific brushes CO and OF showed higher values for thickness (larger side) (T0 to T3) and OF (smaller side) (T0). Results for both sides of bristle-ends showed (T0 to T3) flat or slanted bristles, indicating unacceptability in 69.4% to 85.1% of bristles. Results related to degradation showed bristles with progressive flat or oblique wear over time. For mass loss in dentures, there was gain in mass from T1 to T3 and mass gain over time for OB (T2). For surface roughness, there were no significant differences between all factors (p>0.001). For gloss, OB (T1 and T3) showed higher values. It was concluded that there is a lack of standardization of the characteristic of specific denture brushes. Despite the progressive wear of the bristles over time, Curaprox, Próteseplus, Condor, Oral B, and Orafix can be indicated for routine hygiene of denture wearers since they were not able to damage the acrylic resin.

Fractal analysis of bone trabeculae from the mandible of patients with chronic kidney disease

Matheus Kawana Couto — 2025-07-10

The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of the bone trabeculae pattern in the mandible of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) using fractal dimension analysis in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) exams. The sample comprised 20 adult patients, divided into two groups: a group of 10 individuals with CKD and a control group of 10 people matched for sex and age similar to the first group. The software ImageJ was used to do fractal analysis on the mandibular condyle and body of each individual. Statistical analysis included the use of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the examiner’s standardization and the student t-test for fractal analysis. The results showed a lower complexity of bone microarchitecture in the CKD group compared to the healthy patients. The fractal values found in the mandible of individuals were significantly lower for both body and condyle in the CKD group. The decrease in bone quality interferes directly in the planning of clinical and surgical interventions, therefore, fractal analysis appears to be a potential, simple, and economic method for examining bone quality through imaging exams.

Presence and concentration of fluoride in dentifrices in the Brazilian market

Luise Gomes da Motta — 2025-07-10

The use of fluoride dentifrices has contributed to a worldwide reduction in the incidence of dental caries. This study evaluated the dentifrices available on the Brazilian market regarding their fluoride content, concentration and registration status with the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). Dentifrices were obtained from the Internet, pharmacies, and supermarkets. Anvisa registrations were verified through a search of the agency´s official website. All adult and children's dentifrices available in the Brazilian market were included in the search. Relevant information, such as product name, brand, presence, and fluoride concentration, was gathered from manufacturers' websites, sales websites, and product packaging (including leaflets). This data was systematically recorded for analysis. The data obtained were analyzed statistically using the chi-square test. Two hundred sixty dentifrices were identified in the Brazilian market during the research period from 2020 to 2023. Of these, 71.9% contained fluoride, 25.8% did not, and 2.3% did not provide any information regarding the presence or absence of fluoride. Among the fluoride dentifrices, 69.5% had at least 1000 ppm, the concentration recommended by the World Health Organization for an anti-caries effect. Additionally, 6.4% had lower fluoride concentrations, and 24.1% provided no information about fluoride concentration. Overall, 74.2% of the dentifrices were registered with Anvisa, while 25.8% did not present any registration. According to the fluoride concentrations provided by the manufacturers, only half of the dentifrices available on the Brazilian market contain at least 1000 ppm, the recommended concentration for effective caries prevention. The percentage of dentifrices that did not disclose fluoride concentration was significantly higher among those not registered with Anvisa. The large number of dentifrices that do not meet the recommended minimum fluoride concentrations undermines preventive measures for oral health promotion. It may increase the population's vulnerability to developing dental caries.

Correlation of biochemical and anthropometric parameters with tooth loss in older adults

Wagner Couto Assis — 2025-07-10

This study estimated the impact of tooth loss on biochemical parameters and anthropometric indicators of adiposity in older adults. A three-step data collection was conducted. First, trained interviewers applied a questionnaire for collecting sociodemographic and economic information to people aged 60 or over, in their households. Second, a dental surgeon and a physical educator assessed the oral condition and anthropometric measurements. Finally, biochemists obtained blood samples to analyze biochemical parameters. Descriptive analyses, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression were performed using SPSS and STATA software. A total of 117 older adults, mean age of 71.2 years, were evaluated, 62.4% of whom were female. Cavities had a 100% prevalence, average DMFT index was 27.8, and missing component was the most prevalent (24.8). The final regression model found a correlation between tooth loss and females, vitamin B12, glycated hemoglobin, and magnesium. Older adults living in Aiquara showed a correlation between tooth loss and females, vitamin B12, glycated hemoglobin, and magnesium.

Influence of skeletal class, occlusal pattern, age and sex on facial soft tissue thickness: a retrospective study using cone beam computed tomography in a Brazilian population

Fernanda Silvestre — 2025-07-10

This retrospective study analyzed the influence of skeletal class, occlusal pattern, age, and gender on the thickness of facial soft tissues, utilizing cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in a Brazilian population. In a retrospective approach, 239 CBCT scans were examined, including 100 male and 139 female patients, categorized into skeletal and occlusal classes (I, II, and III). The soft tissue thickness was evaluated at 10 strategic points along the midline. Significant differences were detected related to skeletal classes, gender, and age. In the occlusal classes, there were significant variations between genders, particularly evident in classes I and II, and less so in class III. Age was found to be an influential factor, especially in individuals under 40 years of age, with notable differences in class I. This study highlights that skeletal class, occlusal pattern, gender, and age play fundamental roles in determining facial soft tissue thickness. These findings are important for improving the accuracy of facial reconstructions and are particularly relevant for the Brazilian population.