Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are aggressive, recurrent, and metastatic neoplasms with a high occurrence around the world and can lead to death when not treated appropriately. Several molecules and signaling pathways are involved in the malignant conversion process. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been described in HNSCCs, a major type of aggressive carcinoma. EMT describes the development of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells, which depends on several molecular interactions and signaling pathways that facilitate mesenchymal conversion. This is related to interactions with the microenvironment of the tumor, hypoxia, growth factors, matrix metalloproteinases, and the presence of viral infections. In this review, we focus on the main molecules related to EMT, their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, plasticity phenomena, epigenetic regulation, hypoxia, inflammation, their relationship with immune cells, and the inhibition of EMT in the context of HNSCCs.

Background: Cleft lip and palate is an anomaly that affects both women and men. It is considered to be among the most frequent congenital abnormalities and is related to modifications in chromosomal DNA and multiple genetic alterations. This anomaly can also be associated with various environmental factors, such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, medication use, and exposure to different environmental and industrial toxic substances. The objective of this study was to document the frequency of risk factors related to cleft lip and palate through a systematic review of Mexican studies. Methods: In this systematic review, a bibliographic search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines in the databases Scielo, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and EBSCO. Keywords related to cleft lip and palate, epidemiology, and risk factors were used. In all, 3 independent reviewers (J.A.S.L., S.L.V., and N.M.F.) selected and evaluated a total of 17 articles included in this analysis, achieving a coefficient of κ = 0.84. Results: The analysis revealed that the highest frequency of conducted studies was in the State of Mexico. The most common risk factors identified were environmental, pharmacological, consumption habits, and gynecological factors. Conclusions: Identifying the main risk factors for cleft lip and palate in the Mexican population will enable the implementation of preventive measures aimed at reducing exposure to these factors. Additionally, early intervention can improve the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

Oxidative stress (OS) has gained substantial relevance due to its involvement in the pathogenesis of numerous systemic diseases. It is characterized by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the capacity of endogenous antioxidant systems to neutralize them. Various factors, including trauma, immunological alterations, and psychological stress, may contribute to this condition. The aim of this narrative review was to analyze OS markers and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in asymptomatic and pericoronitis-associated impacted mandibular third molars (ITMs). This review examines the relationship between OS and impacted ITMs, highlighting the importance of timely clinical management to prevent chronic tissue damage. Current evidence indicates that OS biomarkers such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), uric acid (UA), and nitric oxide (NO) are elevated in patients with ITMs, including those classified as asymptomatic, and that a reduction in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) has been observed. The surgical removal of ITMs can effectively reduce OS levels. Following the procedure, oxidative markers typically return to normal within a relatively short period of time, and there is often a significant improvement in TAC.

Fluoride, a trace element, plays a crucial role in dental health, primarily by preventing dental caries and promoting enamel remineralization. However, excessive exposure to fluoride can result in adverse health effects, including dental and skeletal fluorosis. This review provides a critical analysis of the clinical manifestations of fluorosis, highlighting the physiological signs associated with chronic fluoride exposure, such as osteocondensation, cortical thickening, and skeletal deformities.