This work developed ternary films based on Poly(Lactic Acid) (PLA), Cloisite 30B (C30B) and Oregano Essential Oil (OEO) as proposal to be applied in food packaging. The films thus manufactured were unscathed, with reduced surface defects. Their thickness and moisture content varied according to the composition and content of each component in the formulation. Optical micrographs indicated a homogeneous morphology, with good distribution of clay in the matrix. FTIR data confirms the incorporation of OEO into the films. TGA analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the films was not significantly affected by the incorporation of C30B and OEO. OEO incorporation did not promote an efficient antimicrobial action which is probably due to its retention by the clay. Further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis. The combination between C30B and OEO in the PLA polymeric matrix is a promising proposal.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Candida spp. in complete dentures of institucionalized elderly, aged 60 or more, in a city of northeast of Brazil. A survey was conducted of the health profile and quantification of Candida spp. from isolation in Sabouraud agar. Our results showed that from 181 institutionalized elderlies, only 17 (66-84 years) met the inclusion criteria. 47.1 % were totally dependent, and 58.8 % needed help with hygiene. The most commonly used drugs were antihypertensive. The results showed a high prevalence of Candida spp. (64.5 %) in the dentures of institutionalized elderly and this may be a reflection of poor oral hygiene.

El objetivo fue asociar el uso de prótesis dentales totales y la prevalencia de Candida spp. en ancianos institucionalizados con 60 o más años de edad, en una ciudad del Nordeste de Brasil. Se llevó a cabo un estudio del perfil de salud y cuantificación de Candida spp. por aislamiento con agar Sabouraud. A partir de 181 ancianos institucionalizados, sólo 17 (6684 años) cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. 47,1 % eran totalmente dependientes y 58,8 % necesitó ayuda con la higiene. Los fármacos más utilizados fueron antihipertensivos. Los resultados mostraron una alta prevalencia de Candida spp. (64,5 %) en las prótesis dentales totales de los ancianos institucionalizados y esto tal vez sea un reflejo de la deficiente higiene oral.