Bounds on effective interactions from the reaction e+e--->gama gama at LEP

We establish bounds on the mass scale of effective interactions between fermions and photons using the OPAL data for the reaction e+e-→γγ at √s=91.22 GeV.

Single puncture for TMJ arthrocentesis: an effective technique for hydraulic distention of the superior joint space

Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis is a method of flushing out the synovial fluid that is currently performed by providing a double puncture to the upper joint space. The traditional 2-needle technique has some restrictions, such as the difficulty in performing it in the presence of intra-articular adherences and in the female patients, because the space is very small. The adoption of a single-needle for fluid injection might have some advantages with respect to the traditional 2-needle approach in terms of easily, time of execution and tolerability. We describe a single needle technique and we recommend the use.

Evaluation of effective nucleon-nucleon potential and description of α-cluster type nuclei in restricted dynamics approach

The application of the Restricted Dynamics Approach in nuclear theory, based on the approximate solution of many-particle Schrödinger equation, which accounts for all conservation laws in many-nucleon system, is discussed. The Strictly Restricted Dynamics Model is used for the evaluation of binding energies, level schemes, E2 and Ml transition probabilities as well as the electric quadrupole and magnetic dipole momenta of light a-cluster type nuclei in the region 4 ≤ A ≤ 40. The parameters of effective nucleonnucleon interaction potential are evaluated from the ground state binding energies of doubly magic nuclei 4He, 16O and 40Ca.

An effective technique to posterior resin composite restorations

AIM: The aim of this study is to present a clinical case in which an occlusal matrix device was used in a patient who needed to restore a posterior tooth. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A direct duplicate occlusal appliance was used (biteperf) in a patient who needed an occlusal restoration in two posterior teeth. RESULTS: Using the matrix helps having fast and accurate reproduction of the original anatomical details of the occlusal surface. The final result surprised with the presented restoration in terms of esthetic quality, despite the simplicity of the technique. CONCLUSION: Posterior teeth with initial lesions were confined to the occlusal surface of anatomically complex or fissured anatomy with or without signs of proximal caries wich are ideal candidates for this technique. The overlying enamel surface must be relatively intact; lesions of hidden or occult caries. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The aesthetic and time-saving benefits of the occlusal device (biteperf) are immediately clear. The matrix allows the fast and accurate reproduction of the anatomic details of the original occlusal surface of the tooth. The professionals who lack an artistic penchant and marked manual ability will be able to carry out excellent posterior resin composite restorations.

Low-temperature plasma: an effective approach against Candida albicans biofilm

This study evaluated the antifungal potential of low-temperature plasma (LTP) on a 72-hour Candida albicans biofilm. A growth inhibition zone test was conducted with agar plates inoculated with C. albicans and submitted to LTP and argon application at 3 and 10 mm for 10, 30, 60, 90, and 120 seconds. The groups for biofilm assays were 60 seconds of LTP application with a tip-to-sample distance of 3 mm (LTP-3) and 10 mm (LTP-10); –application of only argon gas for 60 seconds with a tip-to-sample distance of 3 mm (Ar-3) and 10 mm (Ar-10); and no treatment. The C. albicans biofilm was grown on saliva-coated discs. The medium was replaced every 24 hours. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed the proportion of live and dead cells, and variable pressure scanning electron microscopy (VPSEM) showed biofilm/cell structure. No inhibition zone was observed for control and either Ar groups. For the LTP groups, a progressively increasing of inhibition zone diameter was observed for different treatment durations. The LTP-3 and LTP-10 groups presented higher proportions of dead cells compared with the Ar-3 and Ar-10 groups. VPSEM revealed cell perforations in the LTP-3 and LTP-10 groups. A short period of LTP exposure demonstrated an antifungal effect on C. albicans biofilm.