Tritium Beta Spectrum Measurement and Neutrino Mass Limit from Cyclotron Radiation Emission Spectroscopy

The absolute scale of the neutrino mass plays a critical role in physics at every scale, from the subatomic to the cosmological. Measurements of the tritium end-point spectrum have provided the most precise direct limit on the neutrino mass scale. In this Letter, we present advances by Project 8 to the cyclotron radiation emission spectroscopy (CRES) technique culminating in the first frequency-based neutrino mass limit. With only a cm^{3}-scale physical detection volume, a limit of m_{β}<155  eV/c^{2} (152  eV/c^{2}) is extracted from the background-free measurement of the continuous tritium beta spectrum in a Bayesian (frequentist) analysis. Using ^{83m}Kr calibration data, a resolution of 1.66±0.19  eV (FWHM) is measured, the detector response model is validated, and the efficiency is characterized over the multi-keV tritium analysis window. These measurements establish the potential of CRES for a high-sensitivity next-generation direct neutrino mass experiment featuring low background and high resolution.

Micro-Computed Tomography (µCT) as a Tool for High-Resolution 3D Imaging and Analysis of Intraocular Lenses: Feasibility and Proof of the Methodology to Evaluate YAG Pits

INTRODUCTION

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most frequent late sequelae after successful cataract surgery. Neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy is considered the gold standard and a well-accepted, safe, and effective measure in treating PCO. However, iatrogenic damage of the intraocular lens (IOL) due to inappropriate focusing is a quite common side effect. These permanent defects (YAG pits) can critically affect overall optical quality.

METHODS

In this laboratory study, we used the micro-computed tomography (µCT) technique to obtain high-resolution 3D images of the lens and the YAG pits.

RESULTS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of a detailed analysis of IOLs with µCT technology. This non-destructive technique seems to be ideal for comparative studies, measuring dimensions of the damage, and visualizing shooting channels within the material.

CONCLUSION

µCT is excellently suited to examine an IOL in detail, analyze optics and haptics in three dimensions, and to describe all kinds of changes within the IOL without damaging it.

The effect of agricultural intensification and water-locking on the world's largest coastal lagoonal system

The palaeolimnological conditions of Mirim Lagoon, a large coastal shallow lagoon under the influence of historical human impacts related to the development of the primary sector of the economy were reconstructed. The first significant human impact consisted of locking the estuarine system to induce the transition from brackish to freshwater conditions. During this transition, the sedimentation rate consistently increased from pre-disturbance values of 0.25 cm yr^-1 to >1 cm yr^-1. A concomitant increase in nitrogen and carbon values was recorded indicating a related eutrophication process. The highest nutrient levels were achieved during the 1990s after the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies for agricultural production such as high-yielding varieties of rice resistant to climate variability and pests, and the use of inorganic fertilisers, pesticides and water supply controlled by irrigation. After 2011, the soybean production boosted and the area cultivated with this oilseed equalled the area of rice paddies, i.e., 2 × 10⁵ ha. A sharp decrease in δ¹³C from -19 to -24‰ and in δ¹⁵N from 6 to 2‰ were observed in the sedimentary record, indicating a major shift in the composition of the organic matter after the agricultural intensification. Trace elements Cr, Cu, Ni and Zn showed a high positive correlation with Al and Fe, and enrichment factors near 1, indicating a natural and terrigenous source of these elements and also unpolluted conditions. However, the increase of As after 1990 and the positive correlation with Pb was associated with agricultural practices. All elemental ratios (K/Al, Ti/Al and V/Cr) showed constant pre-disturbance trends and a turning point ca. the 1990s. Microplastics were detected from the beginning of the 1990s and increased towards recent sediments, thus corroborating an anthropogenically impacted scenario. Therefore, the development of the primary sector of the economy exerted clear impacts on the environmental quality of the system.

Portuguese Football Federation consensus statement 2020: nutrition and performance in football

Nutrition is an undeniable part of promoting health and performance among football (soccer) players. Nevertheless, nutritional strategies adopted in elite football can vary significantly depending on culture, habit and practical constraints and might not always be supported by scientific evidence. Therefore, a group of 28 Portuguese experts on sports nutrition, sports science and sports medicine sought to discuss current practices in the elite football landscape and review the existing evidence on nutritional strategies to be applied when supporting football players. Starting from understanding football's physical and physiological demands, five different moments were identified: preparing to play, match-day, recovery after matches, between matches and during injury or rehabilitation periods. When applicable, specificities of nutritional support to young athletes and female players were also addressed. The result is a set of practical recommendations that gathered consensus among involved experts, highlighting carbohydrates periodisation, hydration and conscious use of dietary supplements.

Enzymatic effects of Pleurotus ostreatus spent substrate on whole-plant corn silage and performance of lactating goats

Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom) synthesizes enzymes that degrade lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of Pleurotus ostreatus spent substrate (POSS) on whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, lignin monomers, and in vitro digestibility, as well as the performance of lactating goats fed corn silage treated with different levels of POSS. In experiment 1, 4 levels of lignocellulolytic enzymes were tested in a complete randomized design: 0, 10, 20, and 30 mg of lignocellulosic enzymes per kilogram of fresh matter, 4 replicates per treatment (vacuum-sealed bags). The bags were opened 60 d after ensiling. In experiment 2, corn silage treated with 3 enzyme levels (0, 10, or 30 mg/kg of fresh matter) was fed to lactating goats as part of the total mixed ration. Nine lactating Saanen goats (62.68 ± 7.62 kg BW; 44 ± 8 d in milk; 2.91 ± 0.81 kg of milk/day, mean ± SD) were assigned to three 3 × 3 Latin squares. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS (version 9.4, SAS Institute Inc.), and means were compared by linear and quadratic orthogonal contrast. In experiment 1, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), lignin, and cellulose quadratically decreased in the WPCS treated with POSS. At the nadir point, POSS decreased NDF by 14.1%, ADF by 19.5%, lignin by 9.07%, and cellulose by 22.1% compared with the untreated silage. Therefore, POSS led to a quadratic increase in in vitro dry matter digestibility of WPCS (+8.88% at the vertex) compared with the untreated silage. In experiment 2, POSS quadratically increased the in vivo total-tract ADF digestibility. Also, the concentration of polyphenols in the milk of goats linearly increased with the addition of POSS, and no differences were observed among treatments for milk yield and composition. In summary, adding 10 mg of lignocellulolytic enzymes from POSS per kilogram of fresh matter of whole-plant corn at ensiling had a more evident reduction in lignin and cellulose concentration, leading to greater in vitro digestibility, as well as greater in vivo ADF digestibility; however, milk yield was not different among treatments.

Early Cerebrovascular Ultrasonography as a Predictor of Hemorrhagic Transformation After Thrombectomy

OBJECTIVES

To determine the predictive value of early transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS) for intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in patients with large artery occlusion (LAO) stroke of carotid circulation, who were submitted to endovascular therapy (EVT) with successful reperfusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study evaluating a cohort of consecutive stroke patients with LAO of the carotid circulation that were recanalyzed with EVT. We measured angle-corrected peak systolic velocities, end-diastolic velocities and mean flow velocities (PSV, EDV and MFV) of the symptomatic and asymptomatic middle cerebral artery (MCA). The ratio between MFV of the symptomatic MCA and MFV of the asymptomatic MCA (MCA-Ra) was calculated. Parenchymal hematoma in the 24 hours control CT was considered as ICH. Univariate associations and multivariate analyses were used to identify early independent predictors for ICH among TCCS findings.

RESULTS

We included 234 patients, mean age 72.5 (SD 12.6) years, 52.1% male. The mean time between recanalization and TCCS was 12.3 hours (range 3-22). Patients who developed postinterventional ICH showed a higher MCA-Ra (1.02 ± 0.26 vs 1.16 ± 0,21, p = 0.036). In multivariate analysis, only higher MCA-Ra remained independently associated with postinterventional ICH (OR: 6.778, 95%CI: 1.152-39.892, p = 0.034). A value of MCA-Ra ≥ 1,05 was associated with ICH, showing a sensitivity of 81.3% and a specificity of 65.9%; the AUC based of the ROC analysis was 0.688 (95% CI 0.570-0.806).

CONCLUSION

TCCS performed within the first 24 hours after stroke onset can help to predict hemorrhagic transformation in patients with LAO.

Inside out: Taking inpatient care home

Introduction

Home hospitalization is an alternative to conventional hospitalization in several areas of medicine. In Portugal, we are now starting to think about its implementation in Psychiatry, given the positive experience of its use in other countries.

Objectives

Understand the advantages and disadvantages of a home hospitalization model and its logistical and clinical framework in an integrated community-focused care model.

Methods

We performed a literature review using Pubmed databases and UpToDate on home hospitalization, inpatient care and community-focused care model

Results

We have found reports of centers with experience in home hospitalization in Psychiatry, but there is still a notable lack of studies in this area. There is a discrepancy between the care needs of patients and the existence of community services for the treatment of mental illness. Home hospitalization is considered when there is partial remission of the symptomatology that motivated the hospitalization. Albeit demanding inclusion criteria limit eligible patients, there are several advantages with this hospitalization model: 1) it favors agility in the transition from hospital to home, with direct observation of contextual factors that may influence psychiatric decompensation, 2) integrates the patient in his natural environment, promoting his autonomy,; 3) allows psychoeducation of the family; 3) guarantees the continuity of the therapeutic process initiated in the hospital, 4) optimizes resources and cost-effectiveness, 5) prevents relapses and the “revolving-door “phenomenon.

Conclusions

We have found that a model of home hospitalization is a valuable element that should be included in an integrated system of psychiatric care.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Profile of Self-Reported Physical Tasks and Physical Training in Brazilian Special Operations Units: A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Study

There is limited research examining the physical tasks that Brazilian special policemen groups can perform in the line of duty. The aims of this study were to (a) identify the occupational tasks of specialist police personnel serving in the Rapid Response Group (GRR) and Tactical Operations Command (COT), and to profile the frequency, difficulty, and importance of these tasks, and (b) to explore the current physical training these special operations police units (SOPUs) officers undertake to maintain their operational fitness. Univariate analysis for numerical variables (mean and standard deviation (SD)), as well as the absolute and relative frequencies for categorical variables were performed. Two Brazilian SOPUs performed a questionnaire with demographic, performance, and physical training sections. A total of 78 respondents (24 of the GRR and 54 of the COT) completed the survey. "Standing and/or sitting with complete equipment for long periods in different climatic conditions", and "lifting/pushing/pulling heavier objects" were the most frequent and difficult occupational tasks of both SOPUs, respectively. "Shooting a long weapon" and "breaking a door" were the most important for GRR and COT, respectively. All officers undertook regular physical training (~9 h/week), in an unstructured manner, without supervision, and planning of physical training is carried out autonomously (COT) or a mixture of autonomously and directed (GRR), with the main objectives of developing aerobic endurance and muscle strength. It is important that SOPUs teams train their members' physical capabilities to perform the tasks identified in this study, as well as follow a structured, supervised, and planned physical training program.

External causes in women assisted by the Mobile Emergency Service - SAMU, in Espírito Santo, Brazil

Background

External causes are events that lead to traumas, injuries and any health problems, whether deliberate or not, with sudden onset and with immediate consequence, which may or may not lead to death or incapacitating injuries. Studies show that the main causes of death of women in fertile period are external causes, and they associate this fact with the change in habits and lifestyle adopted by this group in modern times that make them more vulnerable to the risks of becoming ill or dying from such causes. The objective of this study is precisely to analyze the prevalence of the main external causes in women assisted by SAMU 192 in Espírito Santo, Brazil, and in this way, assist in the development of accident and violence prevention strategies and also contribute to the scientific society through the description of the profile epidemiological profile of these events.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of primary care provided by SAMU 192, in the state of Espírito Santo, in 2015, in which only women victims of traffic accidents, aggression or falls were selected.

Results

Among the women assisted by SAMU 192, 23.5% were victims of accidents and violence. Of this total, 48.6% received assistance for falls, 46.6% for traffic accidents and 4.9% for aggression. Adulthood was the most frequent, with an average age of 44.9 ± 22.7 years.

Conclusions

External causes involving women represent a major problem in Brazil and worldwide. In Espírito Santo, falling was the most common type of external cause and mainly affected the elderly woman, while the traffic accident mainly affected the adult woman. As for the aggressions, these occurred mainly at night with association with the use of alcoholic beverages. Thus, it is immensely necessary to develop actions to promote and prevent external causes of harm to women's health in the state of Espírito Santo.

Key messages

Knowing what affects the most women's health in an emerging country like Brazil, is essential for public policy actions aimed at reducing the femininity, sexism and the death of women in general. Violence against women is an underreported event because of several factors, leading to the concealment of violence, emphasizing once again the importance of public policies for this purpose.

Beta Decay of Molecular Tritium

The beta decay of tritium in the form of molecular T_{2} is the basis of sensitive experiments to measure neutrino mass. The final-state electronic, vibrational, and rotational excitations modify the beta spectrum significantly and are obtained from theory. We report measurements of the branching ratios to specific ionization states for the isotopolog HT. Two earlier, concordant measurements gave branching ratios of HT to the bound HHe^{+} ion of 89.5% and 93.2%, in sharp disagreement with the theoretical prediction of 55%-57%, raising concerns about the theory's reliability in neutrino mass experiments. Our result, 56.5(6)%, is compatible with the theoretical expectation and disagrees strongly with the previous measurements.

Pragmatic neural tissue management improves short-term pain and disability in patients with sciatica: a single-arm clinical trial

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical effect of sciatic neural mobilization in combination with the treatment of surrounding structures for sciatica patients. Secondly, we were also interested in identifying possible baseline characteristics that may be associated with improvements in pain and disability for sciatica patients. Methods: Twenty-eight patients with a clinical diagnosis of sciatica were treated with neural mobilization, joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques. Pain intensity and lumbar disability were assessed at baseline and after treatment using a Numerical Rating Scale (0-10) and the Oswestry Disability Index (0-100), respectively. The pre- and post-intervention data were compared. The research protocol was registered under the number NCT03663842. Results: Participants attended an average of 16 (SD±5.6) treatment
sessions over an average of 12 weeks. Decrease in pain scores (before median = 8, after median = 2; p < 0.001) and improvement in lumbar disability scores (before median = 33.3%, after median = 15.6%; p < 0.001) were observed. A multiple linear regression analysis showed that duration of pain and age of the patient predicted the disability improvement: F (2, 24) = 4.084, p < 0.030, R² = 0.254. Discussion: Patients with sciatica may benefit from neural mobilization in combination with manual therapy for pain and lumbar disability. Longer pain duration and younger age had a negative influence on lumbar disability improvement.

Dynamics of clonal and plasmid backgrounds of Enterobacteriaceae producing acquired AmpC in Portuguese clinical settings over time

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this work was to provide detailed molecular data on clinically acquired AmpC (qAmpC)-producing Enterobacteriaceae from two different periods (2002-2008 and 2010-2013) in order to clarify the contribution of clonal and plasmid genetic platforms for the current epidemiological scenario concerning extended-spectrum beta-lactams resistance.

METHODS

We analysed 1246 Enterobacteriaceae non-susceptible to third-generation cephalosporins from two hospitals and one community laboratory between 2010 and 2013. Bacterial identification, antibiotic susceptibility, identification of qAmpC and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes, clonal (pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), Multilocus sequence typing (MLST)) and plasmid (S1-/I-CeuI-PFGE, replicon typing, hybridization) analysis were performed by standard methods. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed in two ST11-Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates harbouring DHA-1.

RESULTS

The occurrence of qAmpC was lower (2.6%) than that observed in a previous survey (7.4%), and varied slightly over time. Isolates produced DHA-1 (53%), CMY-2 (44%) or DHA-6 (3%), but significant epidemiological changes were observed in the two surveys. While DHA-1 persisted in different institutions by selection of a worldwide epidemic IncR plasmid in an ST11 harbouring KL105, CMY-2 rates increased over time linked to IncI1 plasmids (instead of IncK or IncA/C₂) in multiple Escherichia coli clones.

CONCLUSIONS

The higher frequency of DHA-1 qAmpC in these species contrasts with the scenario in most European countries. Furthermore, the different genetic backgrounds associated with either extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) or acquired AmpC β-lactamases (qAmpC) in our country might have contributed to their differential expansion.

Effect of Post-Space Irrigation with NaOCl And CaOCl at Different Concentrations on the Bond Strength of Posts Cemented with a Self-Adhesive Resin Cement

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of post-space irrigation with NaOCl and CaOCl at different concentrations on the bond strength of posts cemented with a self-adhesive resin cement. Eighty premolars were sectioned 14 mm from the apex, and endodontically treated. The root canal filling was partially removed. Specimens were randomly assigned into 8 groups (n=10), according to the irrigant for post-space irrigation: SS - 0.9% saline solution (control group); CHX - 2% chlorhexidine; 1% NaOCl - 1% sodium hypochlorite; 2.5% NaOCl - 2.5% sodium hypochlorite; 5% NaOCl - 5% sodium hypochlorite; 1% CaOCl - 1% calcium hypochlorite; 2.5% CaOCl - 2.5% calcium hypochlorite; and 5% CaOCl - 5% calcium hypochlorite. For each group, irrigation was performed continuously with 2 ml of solution. The post-spaces were dried with paper points (#80), and glass fiber posts were cemented using a self-adhesive resin cement. The specimens were sectioned perpendicularly and the push-out test was performed. Optical microscopy was used to analyze the failure mode. ANOVA and Bonferroni tests analyzed the bond strength data. NaOCl and CaOCl presented similar bond strength regardless the concentration used to irrigate the post-space (p>0.05). SS showed the highest bond strength (11.47 MPa) (p<0.05). Adhesive failures at the cement/dentin interface were predominant (58.33%). Saline solution should be irrigant of choice to irrigate the post-space before fiber post cementation with self-adhesive resin cement. NaOCl and CaOCl negatively affect the bond strength values.

Development of a variable-energy, high-intensity, pulsed-mode ion source for low-energy nuclear astrophysics studies

The primary challenge in directly measuring nuclear reaction rates near stellar energies is their small cross sections. The signal-to-background ratio in these complex experiments can be significantly improved by employing high-current (mA-range) beams and novel detection techniques. Therefore, the electron cyclotron resonance ion source at the Laboratory for Experimental Nuclear Astrophysics underwent a complete upgrade of its acceleration column and microwave system to obtain high-intensity, pulsed proton beams. The new column uses a compression design with O-ring seals for vacuum integrity. Its voltage gradient between electrode sections is produced by the parallel resistance of channels of chilled, deionized water. It also incorporates alternating, transverse magnetic fields for electron suppression and an axially adjustable beam extraction system. Following this upgrade, the operational bremsstrahlung radiation levels and high-voltage stability of the source were vastly improved, over 3.5 mA of target beam current was achieved, and an order-of-magnitude increase in normalized brightness was measured. Beam optics calculations, structural design, and further performance results for this source are presented.

Effect of Intracanal Irrigants on Bond Strength of Fiber Posts Cemented With a Self-adhesive Resin Cement

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of five intracanal irrigants on bond strength of fiber posts cemented with newer self-adhesive resin cement.

METHODS

A total of 60 extracted, single-rooted human premolars, sectioned at 14 mm, were prepared with the ProTaper Universal system with a size F3 instrument and filled with an F3 master cone and AH Plus. The root canal filling was partially removed, leaving 4 mm of apical gutta-percha. Specimens were randomly assigned to five groups (n=12), according to the solution used for dentin surface treatment before fiber post cementation, as follows: EDTA 17% (EDTA); QMix (QM); SmearClear (SC); 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and 0.9% saline solution (SS). Ultrasonic activation was performed (three times, 20 seconds each), and root canals were dried with paper points. Fiber posts were cemented with RelyX U200. In one specimen per group, rhodamine B dye was mixed with RelyX U200 to provide adequate fluorescence for confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) assessment. Specimens were transversally sectioned and three slices were obtained, one for each root third. Next, a push-out test was performed. A stereomicroscope and CLSM were used to analyze the failure modes and to illustrate the pattern of infiltration of RelyX U200 into dentinal tubules, respectively. Bond strength means were calculated, and analysis of variance and Bonferroni tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

SS showed the highest mean bond strength values (11.5±5.3), superior to QM (5.1±3.1) and SC (5.1±3.3). NaOCl presented intermediary bond strength values (9.7±5.0), similar to EDTA (7.7±2.9) and SS. QM and SC showed the lowest mean bond strength (p<0.05). Adhesive failures between cement/dentin were predominant (53.9%).

CONCLUSION

SS and NaOCl associated with ultrasonic activation seem to be adequate solutions for root canal cleaning before fiber post cementation with self-adhesive resin cement, whereas chelating solutions, such as EDTA, QM, and SC, cause a decrease in bond strength.

Prevalence of sleep bruxism in children: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Prevalence of sleep bruxism (SB) in children is subject to discussions in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

This study is a systematic literature review aiming to critically assess the prevalence of SB in children.

METHODS

Survey using the following research databases: MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed, Lilacs and BBO, from January 2000 to February 2013, focusing on studies specifically assessing the prevalence of SB in children.

RESULTS

After applying the inclusion criteria, four studies were retrieved. Among the selected articles, the prevalence rates of SB ranged from 5.9% to 49.6%, and these variations showed possible associations with the diagnostic criteria used for SB.

CONCLUSION

There is a small number of studies with the primary objective of assessing SB in children. Additionally, there was a wide variation in the prevalence of SB in children. Thus, further, evidence-based studies with standardized and validated diagnostic criteria are necessary to assess the prevalence of SB in children more accurately.

Intra-articular injections with corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate for treating temporomandibular joint disorders: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

In some cases, conservative treatment of internal derangements of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is considered little responsive. Thus, it is necessary to accomplish treatments that aim at reducing pain and improve function in patients who present arthrogenic temporomandibular disorders.

OBJECTIVE

This study, by means of a systematic review of the literature, aimed to analyze the effectiveness of intra-articular injections with corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate for treating internal derangements of the TMJ.

METHODS

Carry out a research in the following databases: MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Pubmed, Lilacs, and BBO, considering publications issued between 1966 and October 2010, focusing on randomized or quasi-randomized controlled clinical trials, single or double-blind.

RESULTS

After applying the inclusion criteria we collected 9 articles, 7 of which were randomized controlled double-blind clinical trials and 2 randomized controlled single-blind clinical trials.

CONCLUSION

After analyzing the literature, it was found that intra-articular injection with corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate seems to be an effective method for treating internal derangements of the TMJ. However, further randomized controlled clinical trials, with representative samples and longer follow-up time must be carried out in order to assess the real effectiveness of this technique.

Long-term dissemination of acquired AmpC β-lactamases among Klebsiella spp. and Escherichia coli in Portuguese clinical settings

We investigated the occurrence, diversity and molecular epidemiology of genes coding for acquired AmpC β-lactamases (qAmpC) among clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae lacking inducible chromosomal AmpCs in Portugal. A total of 675 isolates non-susceptible to broad-spectrum cephalosporins obtained from four hospitals and three community laboratories during a 7-year period (2002-2008) were analysed. The presence of genes coding for qAmpC was investigated by phenotypic criteria, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Bacterial identification, antibiotic susceptibility testing, conjugation assays and clonal analysis were performed by standard procedures. The presence of bla(qAmpC) genes was detected in 50 % (50/100; 41 Klebsiella pneumoniae, 5 Escherichia coli, 4 Klebsiella oxytoca) of the presumptive qAmpC producers. DHA-1, detected in those species, was the most prevalent qAmpC (94 %, 47/50), being identified since 2003 and throughout the studied period in different institutions. Despite the high clonal diversity observed, three DHA-1-producing Klebsiella spp. clones were more frequently identified. CMY-2 (6 %, 3/50) was observed in B1-E. coli clones. Conjugative transfer was only observed in one (2 %) CMY-2-producing isolate. Most qAmpC producers (94 %, 47/50) co-expressed SHV-type and/or OXA-1 or CTX-M-32 extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). To the authors' knowledge, this is the first description of the molecular epidemiology and the long-term dissemination of qAmpC-producing Enterobacteriaceae in Portuguese clinical settings, highlighting an evolution towards a more complex epidemiological situation regarding cephalosporin resistance in Portugal.

Botulinum toxin for treating muscular temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE: This study, through a systematic literature review, aims to analyze the effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin as a treatment for masticatory myofascial pain and muscles temporomandibular disorders (TMD). METHODS: Survey in research bases: MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Pubmed, Lilacs and BBO, between the years of 1966 and April 2011, with focus in randomized or quasi-randomized controlled clinical trials, blind or double-blind. RESULTS: After applying the inclusion criteria, 4 articles comprised the final sample: 3 were double-blind randomized controlled clinical trials and 1 was single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. CONCLUSIONS: According to the literature, there is lack of evidence about the real effectiveness of botulinum toxin in the treatment of masticatory myofascial pain and muscular TMD. Thus, further randomized controlled clinical trials, with representative samples and longer follow-up time, to assess the real effectiveness of the technique are needed.

Use of chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine sulphate in degenerative changes in TMJ: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION: Degenerative changes in Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) have increased in prevalence and severity over the years. Within this context, it's necessary to obtain safe and effective therapies for control and management of the patient in cases of osteoarthritis and osteoarthrosis of the TMJ. Therapeutic options range from intra-articular infiltration protocols, occlusal splints, pharmacological therapies and physiotherapy and educational measures. The alternative treatment with structure-modifying agents, like as chondroitin and glucosamine sulphates, showed promising results, and especially safety. Thus, through a systematic literature review, this study aimed to analyze and discuss effectiveness and safety of chondroitin and glucosamine in degenerative changes of the TMJ. METHODS: Survey in research bases MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Pubmed, Lilacs and BBO, between the years of 1966 and January 2009, with focus in randomized clinical trial (RCTs) and quasi-randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analysis. RESULTS: After application of the inclusion criteria 2 articles were selected, both randomized controlled double-blind clinical trials, which evaluated the effectiveness of chondroitin and glucosamine in degenerative changes of the TMJ. CONCLUSIONS: There is the necessity of further RCT, with representative samples and long follow-up time, to obtainment more precise cause-effect relationships and to achieve an effective and objective protocol involving chondroitin and glucosamine in cases of degenerative changes of the TMJ.

Imaginologia da articulação temporomandibular durante o tratamento ortodôntico: uma revisão sistemática

INTRODUÇÃO: a evolução da Imaginologia na Odontologia propiciou uma série de vantagens para o diagnóstico e elaboração de planos de tratamento em diversas especialidades. Exames como ressonância magnética nuclear, tomografia computadorizada e tomografia volumétrica Cone Beam, bem como métodos de reconstrução em 3D, permitiram analisar de forma precisa estruturas orofaciais.Aliado a esse fato,com a realização de estudos clínicos com metodologias e desenhos adequados, pode-se avaliar os efeitos do tratamento ortodôntico sobre a articulação temporomandibular (ATM). OBJETIVO: esse trabalho, através de uma revisão sistemática de literatura, teve como objetivo analisar a inter-relação entre o tratamento ortodôntico e a ATM, verificando se a Ortodontia acarreta alguma alteração das estruturas internas da ATM. MÉTODOS: levantamento em bases de pesquisa (MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Pubmed, Lilacs e BBO), entre os anos de 1966 e 2009, com enfoque em estudos clínicos randomizados, estudos longitudinais prospectivos não randomizados, revisões sistemáticas e meta-análises. RESULTADOS: após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão, chegou-se a 14 artigos, sendo que 2 eram estudos clínicos randomizados e 12 eram estudos longitudinais sem critérios de randomização. CONCLUSÕES: pela análise da literatura, conclui-se que a realização do tratamento ortodôntico não ocorre à custa de posicionamentos não fisiológicos do côndilo e disco articular. Algumas mecânicas podem acarretar remodelações dos componentes ósseos articulares.

Bruxismo do sono: possibilidades terapêuticas baseadas em evidências

INTRODUÇÃO: o bruxismo do sono (BS) é uma desordem de movimentos estereotipados e periódicos, associados ao ranger e/ou apertar de dentes durante o sono, decorrentes da contração rítmica dos músculos mastigatórios. Essa condição não é uma doença, porém quando exacerbada pode ocasionar desequilíbrio e alteração das estruturas orofaciais. Dessa forma, surge a necessidade de se obter terapêuticas efetivas e seguras para o controle e o manejo do paciente bruxômano. As alternativas de tratamento variam desde terapêuticas orodentais e farmacológicas até técnicas comportamentais-cognitivas. OBJETIVOS: através de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, tendo como bases de pesquisa a Medline, Cochrane, Embase, Pubmed, Lilacs e BBO, no período compreendido entre 1990 e 2008, e com enfoque em estudos clínicos randomizados e quasi-randomizados, revisões sistemáticas e meta-análises, esse trabalho teve como objetivo analisar e discutir métodos de tratamento para o BS. RESULTADOS: pela análise da literatura verifica-se que existe uma grande quantidade de opções terapêuticas para o BS, porém muitas das terapias não têm suporte científico que as sustente. Assim, a escolha terapêutica deve ser pautada em evidências científicas e no bom senso clínico, objetivando uma melhora na qualidade de vida do paciente bruxômano.

Ortodontia como fator de risco para disfunções temporomandibulares: uma revisão sistemática

INTRODUÇÃO: nos últimos anos, a inter-relação entre a Ortodontia e as disfunções temporomandibulares (DTMs) tem despertado interesse crescente na classe odontológica, sendo tema de discussões e controvérsias. Em um passado recente, a oclusão era considerada como principal fator etiológico das DTMs, sendo o tratamento ortodôntico uma medida terapêutica primária para um restabelecimento fisiológico do sistema estomatognático. Assim, passou-se a investigar o papel da Ortodontia na prevenção, desencadeamento e tratamento das DTMs. Com a realização de estudos científicos com metodologias mais rigorosas e precisas, a relação entre o tratamento ortodôntico e as DTMs pôde ser avaliada e questionada dentro de um contexto baseado em evidências científicas. OBJETIVO: o presente trabalho, através de uma revisão sistemática de literatura, teve como objetivo analisar a inter-relação entre a Ortodontia e as DTMs, verificando se o tratamento ortodôntico é fator contribuinte para o desenvolvimento de DTM. MÉTODOS: foi realizado um levantamento em bases de pesquisa (Medline, Cochrane, Embase, Pubmed, Lilacs e BBO) entre os anos de 1966 e 2009, com enfoque em estudos clínicos randomizados, estudos longitudinais prospectivos não randomizados, revisões sistemáticas e meta-análises. RESULTADOS: após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão, chegou-se a 18 artigos, sendo que 12 eram estudos longitudinais prospectivos não randomizados, 4 revisões sistemáticas, 1 estudo clínico randomizado e uma meta-análise, os quais avaliaram a relação entre tratamento ortodôntico e DTM. CONCLUSÕES: pela análise da literatura, conclui-se que o tratamento ortodôntico não pode ser considerado fator contribuinte para o desenvolvimento de disfunções temporomandibulares.

Síndrome do incisivo central superior solitário: relato de caso

INTRODUÇÃO: a presença de um incisivo central superior solitário é um evento bastante incomum na população. A prevalência da chamada Síndrome do Incisivo Central Superior Solitário (SICSS) é verificada em 1:50.000 nascimentos, sendo registrado um maior acometimento no sexo feminino. Essa alteração no desenvolvimento da oclusão dentária é caracterizada por más formações estruturais, sobretudo na região de linha média do paciente. O diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento adequado dessa síndrome são de grande importância, pois essa condição talvez seja um indicativo de que o paciente pode apresentar outras más formações congênitas severas, não devendo ser a SICSS considerada uma simples anomalia dentária. Os procedimentos ortodônticos, nesses casos, variam dependendo do grau de comprometimento das estruturas ósseas da maxila, da oclusão em si, e principalmente da sutura palatina mediana. OBJETIVO: discutir, baseado em evidências científicas, aspectos importantes relacionados à SICSS, bem como apresentar um caso clínico de paciente do sexo feminino com SICSS, que foi submetida a tratamento ortodôntico na Clínica Odontológica Integrada Infantil da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria / RS. CONCLUSÃO: pela análise crítica da literatura, verifica-se ser muito importante o diagnóstico correto e precoce acerca dessa síndrome, visto que há possibilidade da mesma estar associada a outros problemas de desenvolvimento. Além disso, o paciente acometido pela SICSS deve ser assistido por uma equipe multidisciplinar de saúde, de forma a otimizar os resultados clínicos e devolver-lhe qualidade de vida.

Effect of CO desorption and coadsorption with O on the phase diagram of a Ziff-Gulari-Barshad model for the catalytic oxidation of CO

We study the effect of coadsorption of CO and O on a Ziff-Gulari-Barshad model with CO desorption for the reaction CO + O --> CO(2) on a catalytic surface. Coadsorption of CO at a surface site already occupied by an O is introduced by an Eley-Rideal-type mechanism that occurs with probability p, 0 < or = p < or = 1. We find that besides the well-known effect of eliminating the second-order phase transition between the reactive state and an O-poisoned state, the coadsorption step has a profound effect on the transition between the reactive state and the CO-poisoned state. The coexistence curve between these two states terminates at a critical value k(c) of the desorption rate k, which now depends on p. Our Monte Carlo simulations and finite-size scaling analysis indicate that k(c) decreases with increasing values of p. For p = 1, there appears to be a sharp phase transition between the two states only for k at (or near) zero.

Differential expression of alpha-2,3-sialyltransferases and alpha-1,3/4-fucosyltransferases regulates the levels of sialyl Lewis a and sialyl Lewis x in gastrointestinal carcinoma cells

Sialyl Lewis x and sialyl Lewis a expression depends on sialyltransferases and fucosyltransferases. In this study, we screened for major variations of sialyltransferases and fucosyltransferases involved in the synthesis and regulation of sialyl Lewis x and sialyl Lewis a epitopes in gastrointestinal carcinoma cells. Our results show that expression of ST3Gal IV in several gastrointestinal cell lines is correlated with the expression of sialyl Lewis x at the cell surface. ST3Gal IV overexpressed in the gastric MKN45 cell line, showed exclusive enzymatic activity towards glycoproteins containing terminal Galbeta1-4GlcNAc structure. On the other hand, when ST3Gal III was overexpressed in MKN45, an increase in the expression levels of both sialyl Lewis epitopes was observed. ST3Gal III and ST3Gal IV lead to de novo synthesis of sialyl Lewis x determinant on different molecular weight glycoproteins of MKN45 cells suggesting that each enzyme used different substrates within the available glycoproteome. The final glycosylation step in sialyl Lewis x and sialyl Lewis a biosynthesis in MKN45 cell line was shown to be associated to FUT5, which efficiently fucosylated sialyl Lewis precursors on glycoproteins. Moreover we demonstrate that the expression of sialyl Lewis epitopes in the MKN45 was induced by cell confluence, which can be regarded as a model to study altered glycosylation during tumour progression. This increase was observed together with an increase in mRNA levels of ST3GAL3, FUT5 and FUT6, and a decrease in FUT4 transcript levels in MKN45 confluent cells, suggesting a possible control at the transcriptional level.

Assessment of the frequency of routine removal of dental plaque prior to caries diagnosis by dentists in three cities in southern Brazil

The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of routine use of dental prophylaxis prior to visual inspection, in order to diagnose caries, by dentists with different lapses of time after graduating time. One hundred and fifty one Brazilian dentists were interviewed in 3 Brazilian cities to determine if they usually remove dental plaque prior to visual inspection for caries diagnosis. The dentists were stratified according to year of graduation. The association between the lapse of time after graduating and the practice of routinely removing dental plaque before clinical examination was tested using the chi-square test with a significance level of 5%. Only 28.5% of the dentists reported that they usually remove dental plaque prior to clinical examination. The dentists who graduated in the last 15 years presented the lowest percentages of plaque removal prior to clinical examination (15.1%), whereas the more experienced dentists reported that they perform prophylaxis more frequently. Of the professionals who graduated from 1960-1975, 23.9% reported that they performed dental plaque removal prior to diagnosis, whereas the figure for those graduating from 1976-1990 was 46.2%. Most of the dentists interviewed reported that they did not remove dental plaque prior to performing visual diagnosis of caries.

The Ca2+-dependent protease Calpain A regulates Cactus/I kappaB levels during Drosophila development in response to maternal Dpp signals

Regulation of NF kappaB activity is central to many processes during development and disease. Activation of NF kappaB family members depends on degradation of inhibitory I kappaB proteins. In Drosophila, a nuclear gradient of the NF kappaB/c-rel protein Dorsal subdivides the embryonic dorsal-ventral axis, defining the extent and location of mesodermal and ectodermal territories. Activation of the Toll pathway directs Dorsal nuclear translocation by inducing proteosomal degradation of the I kappaB homologue Cactus. Another mechanism that impacts on Dorsal activation involves the Toll-independent pathway, which regulates constitutive Cactus degradation. We have shown that the BMP protein Decapentaplegic (Dpp) inhibits Cactus degradation independent of Toll. Here we report on a novel element of this pathway: the calcium-dependent protease Calpain A. Calpain A knockdowns increase Cactus levels, shifting the Dorsal gradient and dorsal-ventral patterning. As shown for mammalian I kappaB, this effect requires PEST sequences in the Cactus C-terminus, implying a conserved role for calpains. Alteration of Calpain A or dpp results in similar effects on Dorsal target genes. Epistatic analysis confirms Calpain A activity is regulated by Dpp, indicating that Dpp signals increase Cactus levels through Calpain A inhibition, thereby interfering with Dorsal activation. This mechanism may allow coordination of Toll, BMP and Ca(2+) signals, conferring precision to Dorsal-target expression domains.

Prevalence and spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in Europe

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) represent a major threat among resistant bacterial isolates. The first types described were derivatives of the TEM-1, TEM-2 and SHV-1 enzymes during the 1980s in Europe, mainly in Klebsiella pneumoniae associated with nosocomial outbreaks. Nowadays, they are mostly found among Escherichia coli isolates in community-acquired infections, with an increasing occurrence of CTX-M enzymes. The prevalence of ESBLs in Europe is higher than in the USA but lower than in Asia and South America. However, important differences among European countries have been observed. Spread of mobile genetic elements, mainly epidemic plasmids, and the dispersion of specific clones have been responsible for the increase in ESBL-producing isolates, such as those with TEM-4, TEM-24, TEM-52, SHV-12, CTX-M-9, CTX-M-14, CTX-M-3, CTX-M-15 and CTX-M-32 enzymes.

Interaction of copper organometallic precursors with barrier layers of Ti, Ta and W and their nitrides: a first-principles molecular dynamics study

Processes for the deposition of copper films on transition metal barrier layers by means CVD using organometallic precursors are often found to lead to poor adhesion characteristics of the grown film. By means of first-principles molecular dynamics simulations, we show that the source of the problem is the strong reactivity of the surfaces toward the precursors, which decompose spontaneously upon contact with the surface leading to contamination of the interface. Our simulations consider Ti, Ta, and W as barrier layers, and Cu(hfac)-(tmvs) as precursor. In contrast, we show that surfaces of these metals properly passivated with nitrogen, in such a way that only N atoms are exposed on the surface, are much less active and do not lead to decomposition of the precursor. We propose this passivation procedure as a practical solution to the adhesion problem.

Different expression levels of alpha3/4 fucosyltransferases and Lewis determinants in ovarian carcinoma tissues and cell lines

Ovarian carcinoma is the leading cause of death from gynecological cancers in many countries. Fucosylated glycoconjugates have been associated with various carcinomas. In the present study, we have characterized the expression of alpha3/4 fucosyltransferases transcripts and their products, the Lewis carbohydrate determinants, and their in vitro specificity towards synthetic acceptors using ovarian carcinoma cell lines OVM, m130, GG and SKOV3. We found different expression patterns: GG cells expressed mostly Lewisx (Lex), Lewisy (Ley), sLea and Leb, and m130 cells expressed mostly Lex and Ley. The detection was on the plasma membrane and in intracellular vesicles. OVM and SKOV3 cells had very low amounts of staining. From RT-PCR studies, enzyme specificity of cellular extracts towards a panel of synthetic carbohydrate acceptors and Western blot analysis we concluded that Lea, sLea and Leb were synthesised by FUT3, whereas Lex and Ley were synthesized by FUT4 and FUT9 in both cell lines. The GG and m130 cell lines are adequate models to investigate the role of Lex, Ley, sLea and Leb in ovarian carcinoma development.