The Potential Role of Suppressors of Cytokine Signaling in the Attenuation of Inflammatory Reaction and Alveolar Bone Loss Associated with Apical Periodontitis

Inflammatory cytokines contribute to periapical tissue destruction. Their activity is potentially regulated by suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS), which down-regulate signal transduction as part of an inhibitory feedback loop. We investigated the expression of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha); interleukin (IL)-10 and RANKL; and SOCS-1, -2, and -3 by real-time polymerase chain reaction in 57 periapical granulomas and 38 healthy periapical tissues. Periapical granulomas exhibited significantly higher SOCS-1, -2, and -3, TNF-alpha, IL-10, and RANKL messenger RNA levels when compared with healthy controls. Significant positive correlations were found between SOCS1 and IL-10 and between SOCS3 and IL-10. Significant inverse correlations were observed between SOCS1 and TNF-alpha, SOCS1 and RANKL, and SOCS3 and TNF-alpha. Increased SOCS-1, -2, and -3 messenger RNA levels in periapical granulomas may be related to the downregulation of inflammatory cytokines in these lesions; therefore, SOCS molecules may play a role in the dynamics of periapical granulomas development. (J Endod 2008;34:1480-1484)

Characterization of CD4(+)CD25(+) natural regulatory T cells in the inflammatory infiltrate of human chronic periodontitis

Periodontitis is an infectious disease, where putative periodontopathogens trigger chronic inflammatory and immune responses against periodontal structures, in which an unbalanced host response is also determinant to the disease outcome. It is reasonable to assume that patient susceptibility to periodontal tissue destruction could be determined by the balance between the response against periodontopathogens and regulatory mechanisms of these events mediated by suppressive T cells. In the present study, we identified and characterized natural regulatory T cells ( Tregs) in the inflammatory infiltrate of human chronic periodontitis ( CP) with emphasis on phenotypic analyses that were carried out to address the participation of Tregs in CP. Results showed that patients with CP presented increased frequency of T lymphocytes and CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells in the inflammatory infiltrate of gingival tissues. These cells exhibited the phenotypic markers of Tregs such as forkhead box p3 ( Foxp3), CTLA- 4, glucocorticoidinducible TNFR, CD103, and CD45RO and seemed to be attracted to the inflammation site by the chemokines CCL17 and CCL22, as their expression and its receptor CCR4 were increased in CP patients. Moreover, besides the increased detection of Foxp3 mRNA, diseased tissues presented high expression of the regulatory cytokines IL-10 and TGF-beta. In addition, the inflammatory infiltrate in CP biopsies was composed of CD25(+)Foxp3(+) and CD25(+)TGF-beta(+) cells, thus corroborating the hypothesis of the involvement of Tregs in the pathogenesis of CP. Finally, these results indicate that Tregs are found in the chronic lesions and must be involved in the modulation of local immune response in CP patients.

Expression analysis of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in epithelialized and nonepithelialized apical periodontitis lesions

Objective. The objective of this study was to determine the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in apical periodontitis lesions. Study design. Nineteen epithelialized and 18 nonepithelialized apical periodontitis lesions were collected after periapical surgery. After histological processing, serial sectioning, H&E staining, and microscopic analysis, 10 epithelialized and 10 nonepithelialized lesions were selected for immunohistochemical analysis for MMP-9 and CD 68. At least one third of each specimen collected was frozen at -70 degrees C for further mRNA isolation and reverse transcription into cDNA for real-time-PCR procedures. Geometric averaging of multiple housekeeping genes normalized MMP-9 mRNA expression level. Results. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes presented MMP-9 positive immunostaining in both types of lesions. When present, epithelial cells were also stained. The number and the ratio of MMP-9(+)/total cells were greater in nonepithelialized than epithelialized lesions (P = .0001) presenting a positive correlation to CD68(+)/total cells (P = .045). Both types of lesions presented increased MMP-9 expression (P < .0001) when compared to healthy periapical ligaments. However, no significant differences were observed for MMP-9 mRNA expression between ephithelized and nonephithelized lesions. Conclusion. The present data suggest the participation of several inflammatory cells, mainly CD68(+) cells, in the MMP-9 expression in apical periodontitis lesions. MMP-9 could be actively enrolled in the extracellular matrix degradation in apical periodontitis lesions. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2009; 107: 127-132)

Differential patterns of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand/osteoprotegerin expression in human periapical granulomas: Possible association with progressive or stable nature of the lesions

Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) are expressed in apical periodontitis, suggesting a role for these molecules during lesion development. However, the profiles of RANKL/OPG expression in periapical lesions remain unknown. In this study we investigated the patterns of RANKL and OPG mRNA expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction in human periapical granulomas (N = 44) and compared them with sites presenting characteristic bone resorbing activity: healthy (n = 14) and orthodontically stretched and compressed periodontal ligament (n = 26), healthy gingiva (n = 24), chronic gingivitis (n = 32), and chronic periodontitis (n = 34) samples. Both RANKL and OPG mRNA expression was higher in periapical granulomas when compared with healthy periodontal ligament. Distinct patterns of RANKL and OPG expression ratio were found in the granulomas and in different physiologic and pathologic conditions, with characteristic bone resorption activity potentially being indicative of the stable or progressive nature of the lesions. Lesions with radiographic image smaller than 5 mm showed higher RANKL/OPG expression than images greater than 5 mm. Periapical granulomas presented heterogeneous patterns of RANKL and OPG expression, ranging from samples with RANKL/OPG ratio similar to that seen in sites with minimal or absent bone resorption to samples with RANKL/OPG expression pattern comparable with active bone resorption sites.

Clinical Concepts of Dry Socket

Dry socket is one of the most studied complications in dentistry, and a great number of studies have searched for an effective and safe method for its prevention and treatment. One of the great clinical challenges since the first case was reported has been the inconsistency and differences in the various definitions of dry socket and the criteria used for diagnosis. The pathophysiology, etiology, prevention, and treatment of dry socket are very important in the practice of oral surgery. The aim of the present report was to review and discuss each aspect. (C) 2010 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 68:1922-1932, 2010

Differential Production of Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-1 alpha, Stromal-Derived Factor-1, and IL-6 by Human Cultured Periodontal Ligament and Gingival Fibroblasts Challenged With Lipopolysaccharide From P. gingivalis

Background: Fibroblasts are considered important cells in periodontitis. When challenged by different agents, they respond through the release of cytokines that participate in the inflammatory process. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the expression and production of macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1 alpha, stromal-derived factor (SDF)-1, and interleukin (IL)-6 by human cultured periodontal ligament and gingival fibroblasts challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Porphyromonas gingivalis. Methods: Fibroblasts were cultured from biopsies of gingival tissue and periodontal ligament of the same donors and used on the fourth passage. After confluence in 24-well plates, the culture medium alone (control) or with 0.1 to 10 mu g/ml of LPS from P. gingivalis was added to the wells, and after 1, 6, and 24 hours, the supernatant and the cells were collected and analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Results: MIP-1 alpha, SDF-1, and IL-6 protein production was significantly greater in gingival fibroblasts compared to periodontal ligament fibroblasts. IL-6 was upregulated in a time-dependent manner, mainly in gingival fibroblasts (P<0.05), which secreted more MIP-1 alpha in the lowest concentration of LPS used (0.1 mu g/ml). In contrast, a basal production of SDF-1 that was inhibited with the increase of LPS concentration was detected, especially after 24 hours (P<0.05). Conclusion: The distinct ability of the gingival and periodontal ligament fibroblasts to secrete MIP-1 alpha, SDF-1, and IL-6 emphasizes that these cells may differently contribute to the balance of cytokines in the LPS-challenged periodontium. J Periodontol 2010;81:310-317.

A modified approach for vestibuloplasty in severely resorbed mandible using an implant-retained postoperative stent: a case report

Background. Severely resorbed mandibles often present a short band of keratinized tissue associated with a shallow vestibule. As a result, prominent muscle insertions are present, especially in the mental region of the mandible. This case report describes the deepening of the vestibular sulcus in an atrophic mandible by combining free gingival grafts harvested from the palate and a postoperative acrylic resin stent screwed on osseointegrated implants placed at the anterior region of the mandible. Study design. During the second-stage surgery, a split-thickness labial flap was reflected and apically sutured onto the periosteum. Two free gingival grafts were obtained and then sutured at this recipient site. A previously custom-made acrylic stent was then screwed onto the most distally positioned implants. To document the procedure`s stability over time, a metal ball was placed in the most apical part of the vestibule and standardized cephalometric radiographs were taken before and 6 months after the procedure. Linear measurements of vestibular depths over the observation time were realized using specific software for radiographic analysis. Results. The proposed technique augmented the band of attached masticatory mucosa, deepened the vestibule and prevented the muscle reinsertion. The difference between the 2 measurements of vestibular depths was 9.39 mm (initial 20.88 mm, final 11.49 mm) after a 6-month postoperative period. Conclusion. The technique, in combination with palatal mucosal graft and use of a postoperative stent, decreased the pull of mentalis muscle and provided a peri-implantally stable soft tissue around implants. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2008; 106: e7-e14)

Bite force, electromyography, and mandible mobility during the 6-month period after surgical treatment for isolated fractures of the zygomatico-orbital complex

Objective. The aim of this study was to identify the behavior of masticatory muscles after fractures of the zygomatico-orbital complex (ZOC) and subsequent surgical treatment, by using analyses of bite force, electromyography (EMG), and mandible mobility during a 6-month period after surgery. Study design. Five patients with fractured ZOCs treated surgically by using an intraoral approach and fixation exclusively in the region of the zygomaticomaxillary buttress were evaluated. The control group included 12 other patients. During postoperative follow-up, bite force, mandible mobility, and EMG analysis of the masticatory muscles were evaluated. Results. There was an increase in bite force with time, but a decline in EMG activity during the same period. In the mandible mobility analysis, only maximum mouth-opening values increased significantly after the surgical treatment. Conclusions. The masticatory musculature, according to bite force and EMG, returned to its normal condition by the second month after surgery, and maximum mouth opening was observed after the first month. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2011;111:e1-e7)

Effect of methyl methacrylate monomer on bond strength of denture base resin to acrylic teeth

Bond failures at the acrylic teeth and denture base resin interface are still a common clinical problem in prosthodontics. The effect of methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer on the bond strength of three types of denture base resins (Acron MC, Lucitone 550 and QC-20) to two types of acrylic teeth (Biotone and Trilux) was evaluated. Twenty specimens were produced for each denture base resin/acrylic tooth combination and were randomly divided into control (acrylic teeth received no surface treatment) and experimental groups (MMA was applied to the surface of the acrylic teeth for 180 s) and were submitted to shear tests (1 mm/mm). Data (MPa) were analyzed using three-way ANOVA/Student`s test (alpha = 0.05). MMA increased the bond strength of Lucitone denture base resins and decreased the bond strength of QC-20. No difference was detected for the bond strength of Acron MC base resin after treatment with MMA. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Passando do limite no ambiente de trabalho

Fernanda ?? servidora p??blica. Ap??s ter feito doutorado no exterior, retornou ao Brasil ??vida por aplicar seus novos conhecimentos em a????es desenvolvidas pelo minist??rio de origem. Contudo, seu novo superior imediato mostrou-se refrat??rio ?? servidora, demonstrando oposi????o sistem??tica e injustificada ??s suas ideias e ridicularizando-a em diversas oportunidades diante de seus pares e subordinados. As atribui????es de Fernanda foram paulatinamente retiradas, culminando na perda de seu cargo comissionado. A servidora tentou reagir, acionou o Departamento de Recursos Humanos do minist??rio e outros ??rg??os, mas nada adiantou. Fernanda, ao final, tomou uma atitude desesperada. O caso trata de ass??dio moral e de como tal situa????o se desenvolve dentro de um ??rg??o p??blico, sem que outros servidores e as unidades do ??rg??o se envolvam na quest??o. Ao final da narrativa, h?? quest??es para discuss??o que focam o ass??dio moral e seus desdobramentos

A????es premiadas no 6?? Concurso de Inova????es na Gest??o P??blica Federal

Projetos premiados no 6?? Concurso de Inova????es na Gest??o P??blica Federal - Pr??mio Helio Beltr??o. Representam contribui????es para a melhoria da gest??o p??blica nas seguintes ??reas: planejamento e gest??o estrat??gica, articula????o de parcerias, atendimento ao usu??rio, gerenciamento de informa????es, gest??o financeira e or??ament??ria, gest??o de pessoas e capacita????o, gest??o de servi??os gerais, gest??o de suprimentos e simplifica????o e agiliza????o de procedimentos

A????es premiadas no 7?? Concurso de Inova????es na Gest??o P??blica Federal

Projetos premiados no 7?? Concurso de Inova????es na Gest??o P??blica Federal - Pr??mio Helio Beltr??o. Representam contribui????es para a melhoria da gest??o p??blica nas seguintes ??reas: planejamento e gest??o estrat??gica, estabelecimento de padr??es de atendimento e servi??os, simplifica????o e agiliza????o de procedimentos, atendimento ao usu??rio, articula????o de parcerias, gerenciamento de pessoas e capacita????o, gerenciamento de informa????es, avalia????o de desempenho institucional e gerenciamento de custos

Gest??o estrat??gica da Conab: avan??os e oportunidades de melhorias

Este estudo tem como objetivo realizar diagn??stico sobre o processo de gest??o da estrat??gia da Conab para identificar a integra????o do planejamento estrat??gico ?? sua execu????o operacional. Foi feita uma releitura da gest??o estrat??gica, passando pelos principais conceitos de planejamento estrat??gico at?? a descri????o do Sistema Gerencial, para a vincula????o da Estrat??gia ?? Opera????o em seus seis est??gios. Por meio de pesquisa explorat??ria e aplica????o de instrumento de coleta de dados junto aos gestores das ??reas fim e estrat??gica da Conab (Abastecimento e Pol??tica Agr??cola) foram obtidos resultados que apontaram a Companhia com um grau m??dio tr??s em maturidade estrat??gica, numa escala de zero a cinco. Diante deste resultado foi poss??vel considerar que, mesmo j?? dispondo de um planejamento estrat??gico com meios para operacionaliz??-lo, uma ??rea espec??fica e um mapa estrat??gico estabelecido, ainda h?? aus??ncia de sintonia dos seus gestores e colaboradores o que, de certa forma, acaba influenciando desfavoravelmente o processo de gest??o estrat??gica da empresa

Planejamento estrat??gico enquanto medida de fortalecimento institucional: a Empresa Brasil de Comunica????o

H?? na sociedade, a busca pela compreens??o sobre as vari??veis dos fen??menos que a influenciam para se manter relativamente est??vel e aqueles que a condicionam para a mudan??a. O institucionalismo possui essa complei????o pela vis??o sist??mica que disp??e. O composto social, objeto da an??lise institucional ?? complexo, pois est?? envolto por contratos sociais, ordena????es jur??dicas, corpora????es econ??micas e pol??ticas, interveni??ncia estatal, organiza????es e institui????es sociais, mas, sobretudo h?? o interesse p??blico como regente do institucionalismo. A conduta ou pr??tica social ?? disciplina orientadora de interface entre todas as ??reas. A comunica????o p??blica deve ser o reflexo do interesse p??blico, mas os representantes deste tipo de comunica????o n??o podem se apropriar de qualquer tipo de interesse, portanto precisa se conscientizar previamente de quest??es sociais, pol??ticas e econ??micas para cooperar com a institucionaliza????o da comunica????o p??blica. Assim, o trabalho analisa a partir das estrat??gias organizacionais da EBC a ader??ncia ?? perspectiva de institucionaliza????o do setor de comunica????o p??blica

An??lise das pr??ticas de gest??o dos empreendimentos de urbaniza????o do Departamento de Urbaniza????o de Assentamentos Prec??rios (DUAP) do governo federal ?? luz de metodologia de gerenciamento de projetos

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo analisar as pr??ticas de gest??o dos empreendimentos de Urbaniza????o do Departamento de Urbaniza????o de Assentamentos Prec??rios (DUAP), unidade organizacional integrante da estrutura da Secretaria Nacional de Habita????o do Minist??rio das Cidades, ?? luz de metodologia de gerenciamento de projetos. O referencial te??rico utilizado baseou-se, essencialmente, no Guia PMBOK 4?? Edi????o, que ?? um guia consagrado em n??vel internacional que re??ne as melhores pr??ticas reconhecidas na ??rea de gerenciamento de projetos, com base em experi??ncias diversas de empresas de distintos ramos, p??blicas ou privadas. No desenvolvimento da pesquisa, apresentou-se uma perspectiva hist??rica das pol??ticas federais para os assentamentos prec??rios no Brasil e informa????es institucionais relacionadas ?? unidade, de forma a auxiliar na compreens??o de suas atribui????es e de seu funcionamento. Para o levantamento das pr??ticas de gest??o realizou-se entrevista direcionada aos monitores dos empreendimentos e aos gerentes do DUAP. O referencial te??rico forneceu base conceitual para realiza????o das an??lises relacionadas ??s informa????es institucionais do Departamento e aos dados obtidos por meio das entrevistas realizadas. A pesquisa possibilitou perceber que as pr??ticas de gest??o dos empreendimentos de Urbaniza????o do Departamento poderiam, em alguns aspectos, passar por um processo de revis??o e aprimoramento tendo como objetivo estabelecer procedimentos gerenciais espec??ficos que auxiliem no desenvolvimento da atividade de monitorar os empreendimentos de Urbaniza????o e, conseq??entemente, na execu????o das interven????es propostas por tais projetos