Raquel A C Machado

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This study looked at how an injectable treatment called Profhilo affects skin texture and wrinkles around the mouth in women aged 45 to 65. While Profhilo showed some visual improvements in wrinkles and pores, the increase in skin thickness was not better than the placebo treatment, and 54.5% of the participants were dissatisfied with the results. The findings are important because they highlight the need for better patient satisfaction with anti-aging treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients considering Profhilo for facial aging.

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This study looked at how people reacted to soft tissue fillers, like those used for cosmetic procedures in the lips and face. Researchers analyzed 151 patients, mostly women (90.1%), who had reactions mostly appearing as painless bumps in the lips, with an average size of about 17 millimeters and typically developing around 20 months after injection. The findings showed that different types of fillers caused specific reactions in the body, helping doctors better understand and identify these problems. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving awareness and diagnosis of complications from cosmetic procedures.

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This study looked at proteins known as WD40 repeat proteins to find new small molecules that could bind to them and help in developing drugs. They tested 16 different WD40 proteins and successfully found promising compounds for 7 of them. This is important because it opens up new possibilities for creating medications targeting these proteins, which are linked to various diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients who might need new treatments for diseases related to WD40 proteins.

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This study looked at how often people with a condition called nonsyndromic orofacial clefts (NSOC) have tooth problems, compared to healthy individuals. The researchers analyzed data from 27,703 patients across multiple countries and found that those with NSOC were significantly more likely to have issues like missing teeth (16 times more likely) and teeth that are too large (10 times more likely) in the area of the cleft. These findings matter because they highlight the need for specialized dental care for individuals with clefts, helping to improve their oral health and development. Who this helps: This helps patients with orofacial clefts, their families, and dental professionals.

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This study looked at the genetic relationships and geographical distribution of a type of tiny roundworm called Heterorhabditis, which is known for its role in controlling pests. Researchers found that using whole genome sequences gives a clearer view of how these worms are related, unlike traditional methods that often mix up closely related species. Understanding these relationships is important because it can improve biological pest control methods, making agriculture more sustainable. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural scientists.

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This study examined the link between family history and a type of birth defect called nonsyndromic orofacial clefts (NSOC) among nearly 1,900 patients in Brazil. Researchers found that over half of the patients had a cleft lip and palate (52.6%), with males more likely to be affected than females. They also discovered that NSCPO, which is cleft palate only, had a lower rate of family history compared to the other types, suggesting genetic factors play a role in these conditions. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and genetic counselors working with affected families.

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This study looked at a specific group of patients who have a brain activity pattern called "isolated SWAS" during sleep but do not experience cognitive decline or an increase in seizures. Out of 26 patients studied, 80% started treatment, mainly with a medication called clobazam, yet those who were treated reported more side effects and showed no significant cognitive improvement compared to those who did not receive treatment. The findings indicate that a more cautious treatment approach may be appropriate for patients diagnosed with isolated SWAS. Who this helps: This benefits patients with isolated SWAS and their doctors in managing their condition more effectively.

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This study looked at how certain genetic changes in the interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) gene related to the risk of developing nonsyndromic cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, in a large group of Brazilian patients. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 patients and found that a specific genetic variation (the A allele of rs642961) significantly increased the risk of this condition, with individuals carrying two copies of this variation being more than twice as likely to have cleft lip (2.04 times more likely). This is important because it helps us understand the genetic factors that contribute to clefts, especially in different ancestry groups within Brazil. Who this helps: This helps patients with cleft lip and their families by providing insight into genetic risk factors.

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This study looked at a virtual assistant called SDOF, which uses advanced AI to help diagnose syndromes that affect the face and mouth. The assistant correctly diagnosed 96.2% of the cases it was tested on, with its top guess being right 80.8% of the time. This technology could improve how quickly and accurately such conditions are identified, but it still needs professional oversight and enhancements. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and specialists in diagnosing orofacial syndromes.

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This study looks at entomopathogenic nematodes, tiny roundworms that help control insect pests, and the bacteria they live with. Researchers reviewed historical and recent information about these nematodes, finding a clearer understanding of their types and where they live around the world. They updated the list of recognized species and assessed the geographical patterns of these nematodes, helping us understand their roles in different environments. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and researchers focused on sustainable pest control.

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This study looked at the quality of chicken carcasses during processing to see how well visible contamination from the gastrointestinal tract was managed. It found that carcasses with visible contamination had much higher levels of bacteria—about five times more—than those without visible contamination, but even the non-contaminated carcasses still had unacceptable levels of bacteria. This matters because it highlights a need for better cleaning processes in chicken production to ensure food safety for consumers. Who this helps: This helps consumers and food safety regulators.

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This study looked at temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and its links to happiness and certain genes in Brazilian adolescents aged 13 to 18. Researchers found that unhappy adolescents were more likely to have TMD, with a significant association indicating that those reporting lower happiness had a 37% increased risk of developing the disorder. Additionally, one specific gene variation (rs174675 in the COMT gene) was found to be significantly connected to TMD, suggesting that those with a certain genetic makeup are more prone to this condition. Who this helps: This information benefits adolescents dealing with TMD and their doctors by highlighting the importance of mental health and genetic factors in treatment options.

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This study looked at how lipstick affects the attractiveness of smiles in women, especially those with dental issues like malocclusions (misaligned teeth). Researchers found that women with well-aligned teeth (IOTN 1) were rated as more attractive and employable, scoring an average of 49.71 with lipstick, compared to lower scores for those with more dental issues (like IOTN 5, which scored 34.25 with lipstick). The results are important because they show that a simple cosmetic like lipstick can enhance the perception of attractiveness, but underlying dental issues still play a significant role. Who this helps: This helps women looking to enhance their appearance and employability, especially those with dental concerns.

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This study looked at how a specific gene in potatoes, called StSOBIR1, helps the plant respond to attacks from potato tuber moths and high temperatures. The researchers found that when the temperature is normal (22°C), StSOBIR1 helps the plant resist moth attacks, but at high temperatures (32°C), it actually weakens this defense while enhancing the plant's ability to cope with heat stress. Essentially, StSOBIR1 helps potatoes manage both threats, but when it gets too hot, the plant’s ability to fight off pests drops. Who this helps: This research benefits potato farmers and agricultural scientists looking to improve pest resistance in high-temperature conditions.

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This study looked at how age and sex affect the use of two popular cosmetic treatments: botulinum toxin (like Botox) and hyaluronic acid fillers. Researchers found that men generally needed higher doses for certain facial muscles compared to women, and older patients (50 and above) required more frequent and higher doses for these treatments. Specifically, older patients needed a 14.3 unit average for one muscle compared to 11.0 units for younger patients, showing that age affects treatment needs. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors by guiding treatment plans for patients.

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This study looked at sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among women in a traditional quilombola community in northeastern Brazil. It found that nearly half of the women (48.3%) tested positive for at least one STI, with human papillomavirus (HPV) being the most common. The research also revealed that STIs were more prevalent among younger women, those with lower incomes, and in different communities, highlighting significant health disparities that need to be addressed. Who this helps: This helps women in quilombola communities, healthcare providers, and public health officials working to improve sexual health access.

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This study looked at what people in quilombola communities in Northeast Brazil know about the human papillomavirus (HPV). Researchers surveyed 307 adults, finding that younger people and women had better knowledge about HPV and its link to conditions like genital warts and cervical cancer. The findings are important because improving knowledge about HPV can lead to more people getting vaccinated, which may help lower cancer rates. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families in these communities.

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Researchers discovered a new type of nematode, which is a tiny worm, in the sand dunes of Pichilemu, Chile. They identified it as a new species based on its unique physical and genetic characteristics, noting differences in measurements like the length of certain body parts. This new nematode could be important for understanding biodiversity and may play a role in controlling pest populations in the environment. Who this helps: This helps scientists studying ecosystems and agriculture.

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This research explored how a specific bacterium could help control a harmful pest that damages fruits by killing its larvae. The study found that using the bacterium in various forms led to a significant reduction in the number of larvae, indicating its potential as a natural pesticide. This is important because it offers a safer alternative to chemical pesticides, which can harm the environment and human health. Who this helps: This benefits farmers looking for eco-friendly ways to protect their crops.

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This study looked at how certain bacteria, called Photorhabdus, can evolve resistance to plant compounds that can harm them. The researchers found that after exposing 27 different bacterial strains to a specific plant compound for 35 days, they identified 22 key genetic changes that helped the bacteria become resistant. This is important because it shows how these bacteria can be engineered to help control pests like the western corn rootworm, improving agricultural practices. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists looking for better pest control solutions.

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Researchers discovered a new type of roundworm called Heterorhabditis americana, found in U.S. agricultural soils. This new species was identified based on specific genetic and physical differences from a similar species, H. georgiana. Understanding this species is important because it can help improve biological pest control methods in farming, potentially leading to better crop protection. Who this helps: This helps farmers by providing new tools for pest management.

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This study looked at how certain mutations in the EZH2 gene affect types of blood cancer, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disorders (MDS/MPN). Researchers found that patient cells with EZH2 mutations were more sensitive to drugs that target EZH2, which could lead to cancer cell death and slowed growth. Specifically, cells carrying these mutations showed much lower levels of a marker called H3K27me3, which is tied to cancer progression. Who this helps: This benefits patients with blood cancers related to EZH2 mutations.

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This study looked at how sex and certain genetic markers affected the quality of life perceptions in patients getting jaw surgery. Researchers assessed 91 patients and found that women generally reported a lower quality of life, especially regarding oral function and awareness of their deformity. Specifically, those with a certain genetic marker (having at least one C allele for rs1360780) also reported a poorer perception of facial aesthetics. Who this helps: This information is valuable for doctors in understanding how to better support female patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.

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This study looked at how two types of bacteria, one that attacks insects (EPP) and another that lives with roundworms (EPNs and their bacteria), interact when infecting the same insect host. Researchers found that while one bacterium can outcompete the other in lab conditions, both bacteria can successfully coexist inside a living insect without harming each other's ability to reproduce. This is important because combining these types of bacteria and roundworms could lead to more effective ways to control insect pests in agriculture. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural professionals looking for natural pest control solutions.

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This study investigated the venom of certain snake species from the Amazon Rainforest to understand how it affects their survival in different environments. Researchers found that, while the venoms contained the same types of toxins, they varied in amounts and forms. All venoms were neutralized by an existing commercial antivenom, indicating its effectiveness against these snakes. This matters because it underscores that other factors, not just venom composition, help these snakes adapt to their habitats. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers by confirming the effectiveness of antivenom against these snake bites.

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This study examined how human cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS), an important enzyme for producing vital compounds in the body, changes its shape and function based on certain molecule levels. Researchers found that CBS can form long strands or filaments, which alters its activity; in one form, it is less active, while in another, it becomes highly active. Specifically, when bound to a molecule called S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM), the enzyme’s structure changes, enhancing its function, and stabilizing it against heat changes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with CBS-related health issues by providing insights that could lead to new treatments.

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This study looked at a protein complex in humans called GID4, which helps regulate the levels of specific proteins in cells. Researchers developed a chemical called PFI-7 that reduces GID4's ability to interact with these proteins and found that GID4 affects various important proteins, including two RNA helicases and a metabolic enzyme essential for your body's functions. Understanding how GID4 works could lead to new strategies for controlling protein levels in various diseases, especially cancers. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on targeted therapies for diseases like cancer.

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This study focused on a 6-year-old girl with a severe form of mandibuloacral dysplasia type A (MADA), a rare genetic condition. Researchers discovered that her symptoms were linked to a unique mutation in the LMNA gene, specifically the c.1579C>T change, which has only been reported in five other families worldwide. The findings are important because they expand the understanding of MADA and highlight the genetic differences that can affect the severity of the disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with MADA and their families by providing insights into the genetic causes of their condition.

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This study examined the tiny roundworms known as Acrobeles complexus, found in tomato fields in South Africa, and the bacteria that live with them. Researchers discovered that these nematodes have relationships with various bacterial species, including some that are beneficial or harmful. They also found that the number of nematodes is affected by soil conditions, like having too much clay or phosphate, which can lower their presence. Understanding these relationships is important for improving soil health and tomato crop production. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and agricultural scientists working to enhance tomato yields.

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This study focused on a newly identified type of bacteria, named Photorhabdus africana, which was found in a certain type of nematode (a tiny worm). Researchers determined that this bacteria is different enough from similar species, with 99.1% to 99.2% similarities in their genetic makeup, to be considered a new species. Understanding this new bacterium is important because it may have useful applications in agriculture and biotechnology, which could benefit farming practices. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural scientists.

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This study looked at how often people with COVID-19 experienced oral issues, smell and taste problems, and dry mouth. Out of 414 patients, 139 had these symptoms, with oral lesions appearing in 19.1% of cases, taste issues in 18.1%, dry mouth in 14.2%, and smell issues in 14%. These findings are important because they show that COVID-19 can significantly affect a person's oral health and sensory functions, impacting their quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from COVID-19 and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers studied how high temperatures affect potato plants' ability to defend themselves against pests, specifically the larvae of the potato tuber moth. They found that when potatoes were exposed to both heat and insect damage, the moth larvae grew heavier, indicating a weaker plant defense. High temperatures also changed the plants' chemical responses, making it harder for them to produce necessary defense signals against these pests. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists improve pest management strategies in the face of climate change.

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This research focuses on specific tiny worms (nematodes) and the bacteria that live with them, which are used to control pests in agriculture. The study reveals new insights into the relationships and classifications of these organisms, as advancements in genome research have changed how we understand their connections. This work is important because it helps improve pest management strategies, potentially leading to more effective agricultural practices. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural researchers.

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This research reviewed multiple studies to understand how effective submental liposuction (removal of fat under the chin) is when performed alongside jaw surgery. They found that out of 67 patients, using liposuction during jaw surgery improved the appearance of the neck and was mostly safe, with only a few minor complications reported, such as changes in lip sensation in about 6% of cases. This is important because it highlights a way to enhance surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction in those undergoing corrective jaw surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing orthognathic surgery looking for better aesthetic results.

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This study looked at the classification of a group of bacteria called Microbispora, which are important in various fields like agriculture and medicine. Researchers used advanced DNA analysis methods and found that some bacteria should be reclassified; for example, they proposed that two subspecies be elevated to their own species, and that others be combined or renamed based on their genetic relationships. This work helps clarify the identities of these bacteria, which is crucial for their effective use in ecological and medical applications. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare professionals working with bacterial classifications in agriculture and medicine.

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Researchers discovered a new type of bacteria called Photorhabdus viridis, isolated from a group of beneficial nematodes. This new bacteria is closely related to other species but has distinct genetic and biochemical differences, with about 98.8% similarity in their DNA to one of its relatives. Understanding this new species is important because it could have applications in agriculture and biotechnology, helping to develop better pest control methods. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists.

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This study focused on discovering and describing four new types of bacteria related to nematodes that are harmful to insects. Researchers found that these new species—Xenorhabdus bharatensis, X. entomophaga, X. siamensis, and X. thailandensis—are distinct enough from closely related species to be classified as new. Understanding these bacteria helps scientists learn more about the diversity of microorganisms that interact with insect pests, which is important for developing biological pest control methods. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists looking for natural ways to manage insect pests.

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This study examined the vaginal microbiota of women diagnosed with high-grade cervical lesions before and after their treatment. It found that 57% of women with lesions had a healthy balance of bacteria called lactobacillary microbiota, while 75% of women without lesions had the same healthy type. This difference is important because it suggests that healthy vaginal bacteria may be linked to a lower risk of these harmful cervical changes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk for cervical cancer and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a new zinc-based compound that can make treatment more effective for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells when combined with chemotherapy drugs doxorubicin and paclitaxel. The researchers found that the zinc compound increased the effectiveness of these drugs, leading to better cancer cell death rates, while the compound itself was less harmful to healthy cells. This is important because TNBC is hard to treat and often does not respond well to standard therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with triple-negative breast cancer by potentially improving their treatment options.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a drug called SGLT2 inhibitors is for managing type 2 diabetes in children and young adults aged 10 to 24. The researchers analyzed three studies involving 334 patients and found that those taking SGLT2 inhibitors had a significant reduction in blood sugar levels compared to those on a placebo, with a drop of about 0.93 percent. Importantly, fewer patients in the SGLT2 group had to stop treatment due to it not working well enough, and there were no major safety concerns. Who this helps: This helps young patients with type 2 diabetes and their doctors by providing effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how female European corn borer moths choose where to lay their eggs based on the health of the plants they find. The researchers discovered that these moths preferred to lay their eggs on healthy maize plants rather than on those infested with the Western corn rootworm. Interestingly, while the moths' offspring grew better on infested plants, this choice still shows that the moths were unintentionally making a poor decision for their offspring's future. Who this helps: This information can help farmers manage pest outbreaks more effectively.

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This study looked at how a special glow produced by certain soil bacteria affects the interactions between different living things in the soil, like nematodes, insects, and plants. The researchers found that this glowing, or bioluminescence, helps these bacteria survive in tough conditions and supports their relationships with other organisms. This matters because understanding these interactions can help improve soil health and agriculture. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists seeking to enhance soil ecosystems.

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This research looked at how a type of beetle, Diabrotica virgifera, can store different plant toxins to protect itself and its eggs from predators. The beetles can gather three types of plant defenses, but not a fourth type, and when they lay their eggs, they pass these defenses to their young. Eggs that carry multiple toxins are better protected than those with just one, which shows how this adaptation helps the beetles survive in a diverse environment. Who this helps: This benefits the beetle population and, indirectly, farmers by promoting healthier crops.

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This study looked at plant chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and how they can be used to manage pests and boost crop health sustainably. It emphasizes that while methods using VOCs, like the Push-Pull strategy, are known to help with pest control, the broader effects of these compounds on the environment and crop productivity are not well understood. The researchers suggest that a deeper understanding of how these compounds work could improve agricultural practices and lead to better pest management. Who this helps: This helps farmers looking for sustainable ways to protect their crops from pests.

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This research looked at various genetic conditions, or syndromes, that cause oligodontia, which means having fewer teeth than normal. The review found 47 different syndromes associated with this dental issue, with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia being the most common, seen in 24 patients. Understanding these conditions is important because it helps doctors provide better diagnoses and treatments for people with oligodontia. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with oligodontia and their healthcare providers.