S matrix on the Moyal plane: Locality versus Lorentz invariance

Twisted quantum field theories on the Groenewold-Moyal plane are known to be nonlocal. Despite this nonlocality, it is possible to define a generalized notion of causality. We show that interacting quantum field theories that involve only couplings between matter fields, or between matter fields and minimally coupled U(1) gauge fields are causal in this sense. On the other hand, interactions between matter fields and non-Abelian gauge fields violate this generalized causality. We derive the modified Feynman rules emergent from these features. They imply that interactions of matter with non-Abelian gauge fields are not Lorentz- and CPT-invariant.

On the use of Gram matrix in observability analysis

This letter presents some notes on the use of the Gram matrix in observability analysis. This matrix is constructed considering the rows of the measurement Jacobian matrix as vectors, and it can be employed in observability analysis and restoration methods. The determination of nonredundant pseudo-measurements (normally injections pseudo-measurements) for merging observable islands into an observable (single) system is carried out analyzing the pivots of the Gram matrix. The Gram matrix can also be used to verify local redundancy, which is important in measurement system planning. Some numerical examples` are used to illustrate these features. Others features of the Gram matrix are under study.

Mapping changes in coastline geomorphic features using Landsat TM and ETM+ imagery: examples in southeastern Brazil

Multitemporal Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) imagery was used to assess coastline morphological changes in southeastern Brazil. A spectral linear mixing approach (SLMA) was used to estimate fraction imagery representing amounts of vegetation, clean water (a proxy for shade) and soil. Fraction abundances were related to erosive and depositional features. Shoreline, sandy banks (including emerged and submerged banks) and sand spits were highlighted mainly by clean water and soil fraction imagery. To evaluate changes in the coastline geomorphic features, the fraction imagery generated for each data set was classified in a contextual approach using a segmentation technique and ISOSEG, an unsupervised classification. Evaluation of the classifications was performed visually and by an error matrix relating ground-truth data to classification results. Comparison of the classification results revealed an intense transformation in the coastline, and that erosive and depositional features are extremely dynamic and subject to change in short periods of time.

Imbalanced circulating matrix metalloproteinases in polycystic ovary syndrome

Altered levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may reflect relevant pathogenetic mechanisms of disease conditions. The objective of this study was to compare the plasma levels of MMPs and tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients with those found in healthy ovulatory controls and to examine whether the levels of these biomarkers are associated with clinical and biochemical features of this syndrome. Sixty-five healthy ovulatory subjects (controls) and 80 patients with PCOS were include in this study. MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 concentrations were measured in plasma samples by gelatin zymography or enzyme-linked immunoassays. MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 levels were similar in PCOS patients and in healthy controls (P > 0.05). PCOS patients had lower plasma TIMP-2 levels than healthy controls (P < 0.05). We found higher MMP-2/TIMP-2 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios in PCOS patients than in healthy controls (all P < 0.05). Testosterone levels correlated positively with the MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio and negatively with TIMP-2 levels (r = 0.26, P < 0.01 and r = -0.21, P = 0.02, respectively). In addition, only testosterone was an independent predictor of TIMP-2 levels (estimate = -0.35, P = 0.04) and the MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio (estimate = 0.01, P = 0.04). We found evidence indicating that the balance between MMPs and TIMPs in women with PCOS is altered, probably due to androgen excess found in these women.

Effects of statins on matrix metalloproteinases and their endogenous inhibitors in human endothelial cells

Statins exert anti-inflammatory effects and downregulate matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression, thus contributing to restore cardiovascular homeostasis in cardiovascular diseases. We aimed at comparing the effects of different statins (simvastatin, atorvastatin, and pravastatin) on MMP-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1, TIMP-2, and MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratios released by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) stimulated by phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). HUVECs were incubated with statins (0.1-10 mu M) for 12 h before stimulation with PMA 100 nM. Monolayers were used to perform cell viability assays and the supernatants were collected to determine MMPs and TIMPs levels by gelatin zymography and/or enzyme immunoassay. While treatment with PMA increased MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels (by 556% and 159%, respectively; both P < 0.05), it exerted no effects on MMP-2 and TIMP-2 levels. Simvastatin and atorvastatin, but not pravastatin, attenuated PMA-induced increases in MMP-9 levels (P < 0.05). Only atorvastatin decreased baseline MMP-2 levels significantly (P < 0.05). We found no effects on TIMP-2 levels. Simvastatin and atorvastatin, but not pravastatin, decreased MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio significantly (both P < 0.05), whereas atorvastatin and pravastatin, but not simvastatin, decreased MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio significantly (both P < 0.05). Our data support the notion that statins with different physicochemical features exert variable effects on MMP/TIMP ratios (which reflect net MMP activity). Our results suggest that more lipophilic statins (simvastatin and atorvastatin), but not the hydrophilic statin pravastatin, downregulate net MMP-9 activity. However, atorvastatin and pravastatin may downregulate net MMP-2 activity. The clinical implications of the present findings deserve further investigation.

Chemical and Morphological Features of Dental Composite Resin: Influence of Light Curing Units and Immersion Media

Aims: The study evaluated the influence of light curing units and immersion media on superficial morphology and chemistry of the nanofilled composite resin Supreme XT (3M) through the EDX analysis and SEM evaluation. Light curing units with different power densities and mode of application used were XL 3000 (480 mW/cm(2)), Jet Lite 4000 Plus (1230mW/cm(2)), and Ultralume Led 5 (790 mW/cm(2)) and immersion media were artificial saliva, Coke(R), tea and coffee, totaling 12 experimental groups. Specimens (10 mm X 2 mm) were immersed in each respective Solution for 5 min, three times a day, during 60 days and stored in artificial saliva at 37 degrees C +/- 1 degrees C between immersion periods. Topography and chemical analysis was qualitative. Findings: Groups immersed in artificial saliva, showed homogeneous degradation of matrix and deposition of calcium at the material surface. Regarding coffee, there was a reasonable chemical degradation with loss of load particles and deposition of ions. For tea, superficial degradation occurred in specific areas with deposition of calcium, carbon. potassium and phosphorus. For Coke(R), excessive matrix degradation and loss of load particles with deposition of calcium, sodium, and potassium. Conclusion: Light curing units did not influence the superficial morphology of composite resin tested, but the immersion beverages did. Coke(R) affected material`s surface more than did the other tested drinks. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:176-181, 2010. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss Inc.

Importance of estimating matrix quality for modeling species distribution in complex tropical landscapes: a test with Atlantic forest small mammals

Information to guide decision making is especially urgent in human dominated landscapes in the tropics, where urban and agricultural frontiers are still expanding in an unplanned manner. Nevertheless, most studies that have investigated the influence of landscape structure on species distribution have not considered the heterogeneity of altered habitats of the matrix, which is usually high in human dominated landscapes. Using the distribution of small mammals in forest remnants and in the four main altered habitats in an Atlantic forest landscape, we investigated 1) how explanatory power of models describing species distribution in forest remnants varies between landscape structure variables that do or do not incorporate matrix quality and 2) the importance of spatial scale for analyzing the influence of landscape structure. We used standardized sampling in remnants and altered habitats to generate two indices of habitat quality, corresponding to the abundance and to the occurrence of small mammals. For each remnant, we calculated habitat quantity and connectivity in different spatial scales, considering or not the quality of surrounding habitats. The incorporation of matrix quality increased model explanatory power across all spatial scales for half the species that occurred in the matrix, but only when taking into account the distance between habitat patches (connectivity). These connectivity models were also less affected by spatial scale than habitat quantity models. The few consistent responses to the variation in spatial scales indicate that despite their small size, small mammals perceive landscape features at large spatial scales. Matrix quality index corresponding to species occurrence presented a better or similar performance compared to that of species abundance. Results indicate the importance of the matrix for the dynamics of fragmented landscapes and suggest that relatively simple indices can improve our understanding of species distribution, and could be applied in modeling, monitoring and managing complex tropical landscapes.

Evaluation of in vitro human gingival fibroblast seeding on acellular dermal matrix

The acellular dermal matrix (ADM) was introduced in periodontology as a substitute for the autogenous grafts, which became restricted because of the limited source of donor's tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate, in vitro, the distribution, proliferation and viability of human gingival fibroblasts seeded onto ADM. ADM was seeded with human gingival fibroblasts for up to 21 days. The following parameters were evaluated: cell distribution, proliferation and viability. Results revealed that, at day 7, fibroblasts were adherent and spread on ADM surface, and were unevenly distributed, forming a discontinuous single cell layer; at day 14, a confluent fibroblastic monolayer lining ADM surface was noticed. At day 21, the cell monolayer exhibited a reduction in cell density. At 7 days, about to 90% of adherent cells on ADM surface were cycling while at 14 and 21 days this proportion was significantly reduced. A high proportion of viable cell was detected on AMD surface both on 14 and 21 days. The results suggest that fibroblast seeding onto ADM for 14 days can allow good conditions for cell adhesion and spreading on the matrix; however, migration inside the matrix was limited.

Apert syndrome: clinical and radiographic features and case report

PURPOSE: Apert syndrome is a rare type I acrocephalosyndactyly syndrome characterized by craniosynostosis, severe syndactyly of the hands and feet, and dysmorphic facial features. Presents autosomal dominant inheritance assigned to mutations in the fibroblast growth factor receptors gene. The oral cavity of Apert patients includes a reduction in the size of the maxilla, tooth crowding, anterior open-bite of the maxilla, impacted teeth, delayed eruption, ectopic eruption, supernumerary teeth, and thick gingiva. The mandible usually is within normal size and shape, and simulates a pseudoprognathism. CASE DESCRIPTION: A female patient, 13 years old, with diagnosis of Apert syndrome, attended a dental radiology clinic. The clinical signs were occular anomalies, dysmorphic facial features, syndactyly and oral features observed clinically and radiographically. The patient was referred to a specialized center of clinical care for patients with special needs. CONCLUSION: Because of the multiple alterations in patients with Apert syndrome, a multidisciplinary approach, including dentists and neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists and geneticists, is essential for a successful planning and treatment.

Metronidazole release using natural rubber latex as matrix

Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) can be used successfully in controlled release drug delivery due to their excellent matrix forming properties. Recently, NRL has shown to stimulate angiogenesis, cellular adhesion and the formation of extracellular matrix, promoting the replacement and regeneration of tissue. A dermatological delivery system comprising a topically acceptable, inert support impregnated with a metronidazole (MET) solution was developed. MET 2-(2- methyl- 5-nitro- 1H- imidazol- 1-yl) ethanol, has been widely used for the treatment of protozoa and anaerobic bacterial infections. MET is a nitroimidazole anti-infective medication used mainly in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible organisms, particularly anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. In a previous study, we have tested NRL as an occlusive membrane for GBR with promising results. One possible way to decrease the inflammatory process, it was incorporated the MET in NRL. MET was incorporated into the NRL, by mixing it in solution for in vitro protein delivery experiments. The solutions of latex and MET were polymerized at different temperatures, from -100 to 40 °C, in order to control the membrane morphology. SEM microscopy analysis showed that the number, size and distribution of pores in NRL membranes varied depending on polymerization temperature, as well as its overall morphology. Results demonstrated that the best drug-delivery system was the membrane polymerized at -100 °C, which does release 77,1% of its MET content for up 310 hours.

Morpho-anatomical features of underground systems in six Asteraceae species from the Brazilian Cerrado

In the Brazilian Cerrado (neotropical savanna), the development of bud-bearing underground systems as adaptive structures to fire and dry periods can comprise an important source of buds for this ecosystem, as already demonstrated in the Brazilian Campos grasslands and North American prairies. Asteraceae species from both woody and herbaceous strata have subterranean organs that accumulate carbohydrates, reinforcing the adaptive strategy of these plants to different environmental conditions. This study aims to analyse the morpho-anatomy of underground systems of six species of Asteraceae (Mikania cordifolia L.f. Willd., Mikania sessilifolia DC, Trixis nobilis (Vell.) Katinas, Pterocaulon alopecuroides (Lam.) DC., Vernonia elegans Gardner and Vernonia megapotamica Spreng.), to describe these structures and to verify the occurrence and origin of shoot buds, and to analyse the presence of reserve substances. Individuals sampled in Cerrado areas in São Paulo State showed thick underground bud-bearing organs, with adventitious or lateral roots and presence of fructans. Xylopodium was found in all studied species, except for Trixis nobilis, which had stem tuber. The presence of fructans as reserve, and the capacity of structures in the formation of buds indicate the potential of herbaceous species of Asteraceae in forming a viable bud bank for vegetation regeneration in the Brazilian Cerrado.

Morphological features and vascularization study of caprine cyclic corpus luteum

Corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland that regulates either the estrous cycle and pregnancy. It presents extreme dependency on the adequate blood supply. This work aims to evaluate goat corpus luteum (CL) vascular density (VD) over the estrous cycle. For that purpose, 20 females were submitted to estrus synchronization/ovulation treatment using a medroxyprogesterone intra-vaginal sponge as well as intramuscular (IM) application of cloprostenol and equine chorionic gonadotrophine (eCG). After sponge removal, estrus was identified at about 72hs. Once treatment was over, female goats were then subdivided into 4 groups (n=5 each) and slaughtered on days 2, 12, 16 and 22 after ovulation (p.o). Ovaries were collected, withdrawn and weighted. CL and ovaries had size and area recorded. Blood samples were collected and the plasma progesterone (P4) was measured through RIA commercial kits. The VD was 24.42±6.66, 36.26±5.61, 8.59±2.2 and 3.97±1.12 vessels/mm² for days 2, 12, 16 and 22 p.o, respectively. Progesterone plasma concentrations were 0.49±0.08, 2.63±0.66, 0.61±0.14 and 0.22±0.04ng/ml for days 2, 12, 16 e 22 p.o, respectively. Studied parameters were affected by the estrous cycle phase. Values greater than 12 p.o were observed. In the present work we observed that ovulation occurred predominantly in the right ovary (70% of the animals), which in turn presented bigger measures than the contra lateral one. There is a meaningful relationship between the weight and size of the ovary and these of CL (r=0.87, r=0.70, respectively, p<0.05). It is possible to conclude that morphology of goat's ovaries and plasma progesterone concentration changed according to estrous cycle stages. We propose these parameters can be used as indicators of CL functional activity.

Modulation of extracellular matrix by nutritional hepatotrophic factors in thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in the rat

Nutritional substances associated to some hormones enhance liver regeneration when injected intraperitoneally, being denominated hepatotrophic factors (HF). Here we verified if a solution of HF (glucose, vitamins, salts, amino acids, glucagon, insulin, and triiodothyronine) can revert liver cirrhosis and how some extracellular matrices are affected. Cirrhosis was induced for 14 weeks in 45 female Wistar rats (200 mg) by intraperitoneal injections of thioacetamide (200 mg/kg). Twenty-five rats received intraperitoneal HF twice a day for 10 days (40 mL·kg-1·day-1) and 20 rats received physiological saline. Fifteen rats were used as control. The HF applied to cirrhotic rats significantly: a) reduced the relative mRNA expression of the genes: Col-α1 (-53%), TIMP-1 (-31.7%), TGF-β1 (-57.7%), and MMP-2 (-41.6%), whereas Plau mRNA remained unchanged; b) reduced GGT (-43.1%), ALT (-17.6%), and AST (-12.2%) serum levels; c) increased liver weight (11.3%), and reduced liver collagen (-37.1%), regenerative nodules size (-22.1%), and fibrous septum thickness. Progranulin protein (immunohistochemistry) and mRNA (in situ hybridization) were found in fibrous septa and areas of bile duct proliferation in cirrhotic livers. Concluding, HF improved the histology and serum biochemistry of liver cirrhosis, with an important reduction of interstitial collagen and increased extracelullar matrix degradation by reducing profibrotic gene expression.

Gross anatomical features of the oropharyngeal cavity of the ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Most descriptions of the ostrich oropharynx and oesophagus are superficial and supply little meaningful morphological data. The aim of this investigation is describe the ostrich oropharingeal cavity, in order to supply the deficiency of macroscopic data about this important animal. Five heads of 12 to 14-month-old ostriches of either sex were anatomically dissected to expose the oropharynx. The ostrich oropharynx was "bell-shaped" composed by the maxillary and mandibular ramphoteca. The roof and floor presented two distinct regions different in colour of the mucosa. The rostral region was pale pink contrasting to creamy-pink coloured caudal region. The median longitudinal ridge extended rostrally from the apex of the choana to the tip of the beak in the roof and it is clearly more prominent and rigid than the homolog in the floor that appeared thin and stretched rostrally, continuing caudally surrounding the tongue and the laryngeal mound eventually merging with the oesophageal mucosa. The floor was formed by the interramal region, tongue and laryngeal mound containing shield-shaped glottis. It can be concluded that the present study, in addition to confirming the basic features of the oropharynx previously described for the ostrich, clarified the contradictory information presented in the literature and also provided new, unreported morphological data, some of which may be important when studying nutrition and health in these birds.

Radial variation of anatomical features, wood density and decay resistance in teak (Tectona grandis) from two qualities of growing sites and two climatic regions of Costa Rica

The objective of this study was to show the radial variation of some anatomic characteristics, wood density and natural durability of teak (Tectona grandis L.F.) growing in Costa Rica. Samples of trees 13 years old were obtained from two growing sites (high and low growing) of plantations established in a humid tropical climate (CHT) and dry tropical climate (CST). The variables measured of the fibers as well as for the rays were not affected by the climate or the type of growing site, except for the length of the fibers. The fibers of teak wood from the best growing site were significantly larger. Vessels were found with a greater frequency for the CST but mostly solitary in comparison with the CBT. Average density, maximum density and the variation within the ring presented a light higher magnitude for the CST. The quality of the growing site did not affect these variables. The resistance of fungus attack was similar in the area of heartwood near the pith compared to the heartwood near the sapwood for all the conditions evaluated. Nevertheless, it was observed in some trees a similar resistance of fungus attack for areas of sapwood compared to similar areas of heartwood.