Radiographic study of patients with ectodermal dysplasia and partial

Aim: To investigate the association between gender and type of cleft with hypodontia and to verify if the presence of the cleft interferes with hypodontia of one or more type of teeth in patients with ectodermal dysplasia attending the Hospital for Rehabilitation of Craniofacial Anomalies (HRCA), University of Sγo Paulo (USP). Materials and Methods: Panoramic radiographs of 54 patients of both genders (29 males, 25 females), from the files of the oral radiology sector of HRCA/USP, presenting with ectodermal dysplasia and cleft lip and/or palate were evaluated by radiographic observation of hypodontia of one or more types of teeth. Statistical Analysis: We performed descriptive statistics and statistical analysis by Fisher test. Results: Hypodontia was observed in 50% of females and 50.88% of males; 50% for cleft palate and 50.59% for complete cleft lip and palate. Only 22.22% of patients with cleft palate and 6.67% with complete cleft lip and palate presented with hypodontia of one type of teeth, whereas 77.78% of cases with cleft palate and 93.33% with complete cleft lip and palate displayed hypodontia of more than one type of teeth. Conclusion: Based on the present methodology, there were no statistically significant differences in hypodontia of one or more types of teeth between genders or types of cleft.

In vitro adhesion of Candida glabrata to denture base acrylic resin modified by glow-discharge plasma treatment

This study evaluated the potential of plasma treatments to modify the surface chemistry and hydrophobicity of a denture base acrylic resin to reduce the Candida glabrata adhesion. Specimens (n=54) with smooth surfaces were made and divided into three groups (n=18): control - non-treated; experimental groups - submitted to plasma treatment (Ar/50W; AAt/130W). The effects of these treatments on chemical composition and surface topography of the acrylic resin were evaluated. Surface free energy measurements (SFE) were performed after the treatments and after 48h of immersion in water. For each group, half (n=9) of the specimens were preconditionated with saliva before the adhesion assay. The number of adhered C. glabrata was evaluated by cell counting after crystal violet staining. The Ar/50W and AAt/130W treatments altered the chemistry composition, hydrophobicity and topography of acrylic surface. The Ar/50W group showed significantly lower C. glabrata adherence than the control group, in the absence of saliva. After preconditioning with saliva, C. glabrata adherence in experimental and control groups did not differ significantly. There were significant changes in the SFE after immersion in water. The results demonstrated that Ar/50W treated surfaces have potential for reducing C. glabrata adhesion to denture base resins and deserve further investigation, especially to tailor the parameters to prolong the increased wettability. © 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Artificial neural network model of discharge lamps in the power quality context

This paper presents a methodology for modeling high intensity discharge lamps based on artificial neural networks. The methodology provides a model which is able to represent the device operating in the frequency of distribution systems, facing events related to power quality. With the aid of a data acquisition system to monitor the laboratory experiment, and using $$\text{ MATLAB }^{\textregistered }$$ software, data was obtained for the training of two neural networks. These neural networks, working together, were able to represent with high fidelity the behavior of a discharge lamp. The excellent performance obtained by these models allowed the simulation of a group of lamps in a distribution system with shorter simulation time when compared to mathematical models. This fact justified the application of this family of loads in electric power systems. The representation of the device facing power quality disturbances also proved to be a useful tool for more complex studies in distribution systems. © 2013 Brazilian Society for Automatics - SBA.

Maxillary Rehabilitation Using Fixed and Removable Partial Dentures with Attachments: A Clinical Report

Despite requiring dental crown preparation and possible root canal treatment, besides the difficulty of clinical and laboratory repairs, and financial burden, the association between fixed (FPD) and removable partial dentures (RPD) by means of attachments is an important alternative for oral rehabilitation, particularly when the use of dental implants and FPDs is limited or not indicated. Among the advantages of attachment-retained RPDs are the improvements in esthetics and biomechanics, as well as correction of the buccal arrangement of anterior teeth in Kennedy Class III partially edentulous arches. This article describes the treatment sequence and technique for the use of attachments in therapy combining FPD/RPD. © 2013 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Desempeño de tanques decantadores de sólidos en un sistema de recirculación para producción de tilapia

To compare the removal efficiency of solids, turbidity and apparent color between a conventional and a column settling tanks in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for tilapia farming. Materials and methods. Tilapia with a stocking density between 30 and 33 kg/m3 were cultured in a RAS consisting of a water level control box, PVC piping system, three plastic tanks for culture, conventional horizontal flow settling tank (Con.ST), column vertical flow settling tank (Col.ST), three phase fluidized bed reactor, oxygen transfer reactor, air compressor, air blower, centrifugal pump. The Con.ST operated at a volume of 1.4 m3 and hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 2.94 h; and was drained weekly for washing and sludge collection, representing a 55%discharge of system water volume. The Col.ST operated with a volume of 0.30 m3 and HRT of 0.553 h. Three daily partial draining operations were executed, representing a discharge of 50% of the system volume. Results. The mean solids removal efficiencies were: 34.01 and 44.44%for total solids; 64.45 and 71.71% for suspended solids; 21.10 and 45.65% volatile solids; 65.51% and 62.79% for turbidity; and 56.37 and 50.91% for apparent color, respectively for Con.ST and Col.ST. Conclusions. The two settling devices are useful on removal of the studied parameters and presented similar performance on turbidity and apparent color removal; however, the Col.ST was more efficient than Con.ST for solids removal, requires less space, less volume and requires less discharge water volume, displaying feasibility for its use on RAS.

Estudo de polímeros comerciais tratados a plasma em pressão atmosférica

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Modificação superficial de fibras de juta com descarga corona para melhora da aderência com matriz poliéster

Seeking alternatives for the total or partial substitution of synthetic fibers for natural fibers, with reinforcement in polymeric materials, this work was conducted with the objective of evaluating the treatment with corona discharge on the adherence of juta fibers with resin. The fibers were exposed to corona discharge for 1, 5, 10 and 15 minutes, as well as after treatment with hot water, molding composites fiber-reinforced with filaments treated for 10 and 15 minutes, and without the treatment. The chemical structures were evaluated by spectrometry in the region of Fourier transform infrared with attenuated total reflection (FTIR/ATR), observing the formation of a new band and the increase in the absorption of groupings with oxygen. The thermal analyses, such as thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed the degradation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. The microstructural characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed changes in the surface of the fiber, such as roughness, superficial depressions, surface degradation and cavity formation. The adhesion of the fibers was evaluated by the pullout test, allowing us to verify the increase in adhesion strength after treatment with corona discharge. In conclusion, the treatment with corona discharge changes the surface of the juta fibers, resulting in better adherence with the resin.

Dinâmica do carbono dissolvido no Rio Acre: variações espaciais e sazonais

Este trabalho teve como principal objetivo estudar a dinâmica do carbono dissolvido ao longo de um trecho do rio Acre, avaliando a influência da área urbana da cidade de Rio Branco, e da descarga de três de seus tributários (Riozinho do Rola, igarapé Judia, igarapé São Francisco), bem como a influência das mudanças hidrológicas sazonais. Foram realizadas campanhas de campo mensais, entre dezembro de 2006 e setembro de 2007, em cinco sítios no rio Acre e um sítio na foz de cada um dos três tributários. A cada amostragem 1 litro de amostra de água era submetida a filtração e dividida em alíquotas para as análises de carbono orgânico dissolvido (COO), carbono inorgânico dissolvido (CIO) e íons maiores (Ca² + , Mg² + , K + , Na + , NH 4 + , HCO 3 -, Cl¯, SO 4 ²¯, NO 3 - , NO 2 - , e PO 4 3-) . Além das coletas foram medidos in situ os parâmetros físico-químicos pH, condutividade elétrica, oxigênio dissolvido e temperatura da água. O pH médio anual no rio Acre variou de 6,46 a 6,54 entre os sítios e a condutividade elétrica apresentou valores médios anuais entre os sítios que variam de 69,93 a 77,84 µS cm¯¹. Nos tributários, os valores médios anuais de pH variaram de 6,10 a 6,51 e a condutividade elétrica apresentou valores médios anuais que variaram entre 54,08 e 153,03 S cm¯¹. Os cátions predominantes no rio Acre e nos tributários foram o Na + e o Ca 2+ e os ânions foram o cr e o sol-. A concentração média anual de COD no rio Acre variou de 4,62 a 5,17 mg l¯¹, sem diferenças significativas entre os sítios de amostragem. Nos tributários as médias anuais, de COD variaram de 3,55 a 6,55 mg r1. As concentrações foram, significativamente maiores no período de cheia, com médias que variaram de 6,26 a 6,39 mg l¯¹ nos sítios do rio Acre. O igarapé São Francisco foi o único tributário que não apresentou diferenças entre os períodos sazonais. O CID teve uma concentração média anual no rio Acre que variou de 527,91 a 598,18 µM, sem diferenças significativas entre os sítios de amostragem. As maiores concentrações foram observada na seca, quando as concentrações médias variaram de 816,31 a 998,52 µM. Nos tributários as concentrações médias anuais de CID variaram de 248,54 a 986,50 µM.Quanto a pressão parcial do CO2 (pCO 2 ) , os sítios no rio Acre apresentam valores médios anuais variando entre 3559 e 4059 ppm, sem diferenças entre os sítios e com os maiores valores ocorrendo no período de cheia. Com base nos resultados, pode-se concluir que a dinâmica do carbono dissolvido no rio Acre não apresenta variações significativas decorrentes das descargas dos tributários nem do lançamento de esgotos. Por outro lado, as mudanças hidrológicas sazonais são os maiores responsáveis pelas alterações nesta dinâmica.

Dinâmica do carbono em pequenas bacias de drenagem sob uso de agricultura familiar na Amazônia Oriental

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a dinâmica do carbono em uma região da Amazônia Oriental, cujo uso da terra predominante é a agricultura familiar; a unidade espacial adotada neste estudo foram três pequenas bacias de drenagem. A dinâmica do carbono foi avaliada a partir de medidas hidrológicas e biogeoquímicas em águas dos igarapés Cumaru, Pachibá e São João entre junho de 2006 a maio de 2007. O ambiente aquático e a hidrogeoquímica fluvial foram caracterizados a partir de medidas in situ da condutividade elétrica, temperatura, pH e concentração de oxigênio dissolvido. Amostras de água foram coletadas e analisadas para determinação do carbono orgânico dissolvido (COD) e pressão parcial do dióxido de carbono (pCO 2 ). A partir dos valores de pCO 2 , foram calculadas as concentrações de carbono inorgânico dissolvido (CID). Já os fluxos de C02 foram medidos in situ e também calculados a partir do pC0 2 . Utilizando-se medidas de vazão instantânea a cada campanha mensal de campo, calcularam-se fluxos anuais de COD. A caracterização dos solos e do uso da terra nas porções estudadas das bacias, assim como os índices pluviométricos e fluviométricos, foram considerados na interpretação dos resultados. Podem-se enumerar como principais resultados o seguinte: 1) As características físico-químicas das águas fluviais das bacias estudadas retrataram seus solos ácidos, a vegetação ripária, e processos hidrológicos biogeoquímicos no ambiente aquático e terrestre, e com certa variabilidade sazonal; 2)0 pH e o oxigênio dissolvido se correlacionaram positivamente com o carbono dissolvido na coluna d'água; 3) O transporte de COD por unidade de área foi elevado quando comparado com outras bacias amazônicas, e mais intenso em períodos chuvosos; 4) O transporte de COD e a evasão de C0 2 pareceram responder positivamente à presença de vegetação secundária e floresta densa, e negativamente às atividades agropecuárias; e 5) As taxas de evasão de C0 2 foram elevadas comparando-as a outros rios amazônicos, e corroboram a hipótese de que pequenas bacias são importante fontes de C0 2 para atmosfera na região.

Partial time use of anterior repositioning splints in the management of TMJ pain and dysfunction: a one-year controlled study

This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of partial use of anterior repositioning appliances in the management of TMJ pain and dysfunction when compared to stabilization splints and a control group in a one-year follow-up. Sample was initially constituted by 60 patients, randomly divided into three groups: I- stabilization splints, II- repositioning splints and III- no treatment. The whole sample was evaluated by means of TMJ and muscle palpation, mandibular AROM, analysis of occlusal contacts, joint sounds inspection and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for one year; 52 patients composed the final sample. A significant (after 15 days) improvement in pain report (VAS) and palpation index was found for group II (p≤0.01). The occurrence of occlusal alterations as posterior open bite or gross interferences after the splint therapy and increased muscle tenderness were not problems in this study. Similar results in joint noises reduction were observed for the entire sample. It was concluded that controlled partial use of repositioning splints is a beneficial tool in the management of intra-articular pain and dysfunction, with no risks of irreversible occlusal changes.

Comparison of initial loading doses of 5 mg and 10 mg for warfarin therapy

CONTEXTO:A melhor dose para o início do tratamento anticoagulante com varfarina vem sendo debatida nos últimos dez anos. Em nosso meio, não observamos nenhum estudo comparativo quanto a estas características.OBJETIVO:Comparar segurança e eficácia de dois esquemas de dosagem inicial de varfarina para tratamento anticoagulante.MÉTODOS:Foram estudados prospectivamente 110 pacientes de ambos os sexos, consecutivos, com indicação de anticoagulação por tromboembolismo venoso ou arterial. Durante os três primeiros dias de tratamento, estes pacientes receberam doses adequadas de heparina (RT - razão dos tempos - alvo entre 1,5 e 2,5) e 5 mg de varfarina, cuja dose foi reajustada a partir do quarto dia pelo Razão Normatizada Internacional - RNI (alvo entre 2 e 3). Esse grupo foi comparado com série histórica de 110 pacientes que receberam 10 mg nos dois primeiros dias, 5 mg a partir do terceiro dia, com ajuste posterior de dose baseado no RNI. Os desfechos foram: recorrência do tromboembolismo, sangramentos e tempo para alcançar níveis terapêuticos.RESULTADOS:A eficácia, a segurança e o tempo de internação foram similares entre os grupos. O grupo que recebeu 10 mg atingiu níveis terapêuticos mais precocemente (média de 4,5 dias × 5,8 dias), sendo as doses na alta menores e os níveis terapêuticos mais adequados na primeira visita de retorno.CONCLUSÃO:O esquema de dosagem de 10 mg proporcionou menor tempo para alcançar nível terapêutico, com menores doses de varfarina na alta e RNI mais adequado no retorno.

Predictive factors of post-discharge surgical site infections among patients from a teaching hospital

Introduction Surgical site infections (SSIs) often manifest after patients are discharged and are missed by hospital-based surveillance. Methods We conducted a case-reference study nested in a prospective cohort of patients from six surgical specialties in a teaching hospital. The factors related to SSI were compared for cases identified during the hospital stay and after discharge. Results Among 3,427 patients, 222 (6.4%) acquired an SSI. In 138 of these patients, the onset of the SSI occurred after discharge. Neurological surgery and the use of steroids were independently associated with a greater likelihood of SSI diagnosis during the hospital stay. Conclusions Our results support the idea of a specialty-based strategy for post-discharge SSI surveillance.

Efficiency of partial treatment of cattle infested with horn fly using 40% diazinon

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Plásticos comerciais tratados a plasma para dispositivos ópticos e embalagens alimentícias

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Treatment of polycarbonate by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure

Generally most plastic materials are intrinsically hydrophobic, low surface energy materials, and thus do not adhere well to other substances. Surface treatment of polymers by discharge plasmas is of great and increasing industrial application because it can uniformly modify the surface of sample without changing the material bulk properties and is environmentally friendly. The plasma processes that can be conducted under ambient pressure and temperature conditions have attracted special attention because of their easy implementation in industrial processing. Present work deals with surface modification of polycarbonate (PC) by a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure. The treatment was performed in a parallel plate reactor driven by a 60Hz power supply. The DBD plasmas at atmospheric pressure were generated in air and nitrogen. Material characterization was carried out by contact angle measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The surface energy of the polymer surface was calculated from contact angle data by Owens-Wendt method using distilled water and diiodomethane as test liquids. The plasma-induced chemical modifications are associated with incorporation of polar oxygen and nitrogen containing groups on the polymer surface. Due to these surface modifications the DBD-treated polymers become more hydrophilic. Aging behavior of the treated samples revealed that the polymer surfaces were prone to hydrophobic recovery although they did not completely recover their original wetting properties.