Binary Coalescences as Sources of Ultrahigh-Energy Cosmic Rays.

Binary coalescences are known sources of gravitational waves (GWs) and they encompass combinations of black holes (BHs) and neutron stars (NSs). Here we show that when BHs are embedded in magnetic fields (B's) larger than approximately 10^{10} G, charged particles colliding around their event horizons can easily have center-of-mass energies in the range of ultrahigh energies (≳10^{18} eV) and become more likely to escape. Such B-embedding and high-energy particles can take place in BH-NS binaries, or even in BH-BH binaries with one of the BHs being charged (with charge-to-mass ratios as small as 10^{-5}, which do not change GW waveforms) and having a residual accretion disk. Ultrahigh center-of-mass energies for particle collisions arise for basically any rotation parameter of the BH when B≳10^{10} G, meaning that it should be a common aspect in binaries, especially in BH-NS ones given the natural presence of a B onto the BH and charged particles due to the magnetosphere of the NS. We estimate that the number of ultrahigh center-of-mass collisions ranges from a few up to millions before the merger of binary compact systems. Thus, binary coalescences may also be efficient sources of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) and constraints to NS/BH parameters would be possible if UHECRs are detected along with GWs.

Impact of social distancing from the COVID-19 pandemic on the immuno-inflammatory response of older adults.

BACKGROUND: Older adults, as the population considered at increased risk for severe COVID-19, were the most impacted by social isolation. Thus, this study aimed to assess the salivary immune/inflammatory response of older adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cohort of 11 older adults (mean age 66.8 ± 6.1) was followed at three different time points: before (S1) and after 6 (S2) and 20 months (S3) of the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Unstimulated saliva samples were obtained to assess the levels of antibodies (secretory IgA, IgG and IgM) by ELISA and cytokines (IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10, TSLP, IFN-γ, TNF-α) by multiplex analysis. Significant differences were evaluated using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's post-test. RESULTS: None volunteer presented periodontal disease or caries. All volunteers received at least two doses of the COVID-19 vaccines after S2 and before S3. A tendency to increase salivary levels of SIgA and IgM at S2 and of IgG at S3 were observed compared to the values found at S1 and S2. Significantly decreased levels of IL-2 and IL-5 were found at S2 and S3 (p < 0.001) time points. Lower levels of IFN-γ were found at S2 as compared to the values observed at S1 (p < 0.01). A significant decrease in the IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio was found at S2 (p < 0.01). When assessing the Th1/Th2 ratios, a significant decrease was found in the IFN-γ/TSLP ratio at S2 (p < 0.001) and S3 (p < 0.001) when compared to the values at S1. In addition, a significant increase was observed in the TNF-α/IL-5 ratio at S2 (p < 0.001) and S3 (p < 0.001) in comparison to the values at S1. In a similar way, an increase in the TNF-α/IL-6 ratio (Fig. 5E) was observed at S3 (p < 0.001) when compared to the values at S1. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the impact of COVID-19-induced social isolation on immune/inflammatory responses in the upper airway mucosa, particularly those present in oral cavity, of older adults. It demonstrates that a controlled shift in Th1 and Th2 immune responses, both during infection and post-vaccination, can create favorable conditions to combat viral infections without exacerbating the immune response or worsening the pathology.

The Quantitative Impact of Using 3D Printed Anatomical Models for Surgical Planning Optimization: Literature Review.

3D printing has entered the medical field as a visualization tool that allows the manufacture of three-dimensional (3D) models that physically represent the anatomy of a patient in need of analysis to improve surgical results. This article analyzes the literature around reported study cases that make use of anatomical models for their surgical processes' planning, focusing on obtaining the quantitative results of each one of them. A search of case studies was carried out in the main medical databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, among others; to obtain the most relevant results of the 56 selected articles, the information of each study was analyzed and categorized. These articles presented figures and data about the benefits that are considered more representative to measure the positive impact of this technology. These benefits are summarized in variables such as the decrease in surgical time, greater accuracy in the diagnosis of pathology, blood loss reduction, and decreasing operating room costs; owed to an improvement in the surgery planning. It was found that in all the cases analyzed there was an improvement in the surgical results related to these variables, which were summarized in macro figures that combine this improvement quantitatively. In the analyzed studies, it was evident that there is great potential in the use of 3D printing for presurgical planning, being as the results of these analyzed interventions were better when using this technology. In addition, it was found that the results obtained initially, before applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were mostly of a qualitative nature; expressing the perception of researchers regarding the positive use of this tool in the field and evidencing an opportunity for this research to focus on concrete and technical information to show in numerical terms the effectiveness of this tool, to demonstrate the cost-benefit that it has for the field.

Mídias sociais como ferramentas para a extensão remota: um relato de experiência de uma liga acadêmica de enfermagem / Social media as tools for remote extension: an experience reportof an academic nursing league / Las redes sociales como herramientas de extensión a distancia: relato de experiencia de uma liga académica de enfermería

O Coronavírus da Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causador da pandemia de COVID-19, tem causado problemas mundiais para além da doença, como na Educação, que, na impossibilidade da promoção de encontros presenciais, precisou encontrar formas de oportunizar a continuidade dos processos de ensino-aprendizagem. Desse modo, a Liga de Enfermagem em Saúde da Família, considerando o cenário pandêmico e a necessidade de seguir com as atividades, teve que se adequar ao formato remoto e usar da sua criatividade para transpor as barreiras físicas da sala de aula.Objetivo:Relatar as ações extensionistas desenvolvidas virtualmente pela Liga de Enfermagem em Saúde da Família, demonstrando sua importância para a formação acadêmica em Enfermagem.Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, do tipo relato de experiência,sobre atividades desenvolvidas por acadêmicos de Enfermagem na Liga de Enfermagem em Saúde da Família vinculada ao Curso de Enfermagem da Universidade Estadual Vale do Acaraú, Sobral, Ceará.Resultados:A extensão foi desempenhada de forma onlinepor meio do Instagrame Youtube, com a criação de vídeos, imagens educativas e eventos com temas atuais e relevantes para a promoção da saúde, considerando a realidade sanitária, divididos em eixos: cooperação social, integração interprofissional, acadêmica e comunitária, politização acadêmica, datas comemorativas e vacinação.Conclusões:Esse relato reforça a interação universidade-sociedade frente a momentos de reestruturação, e a relevância das Ligas como estratégias extracurriculares de ensino, integrando-se à pesquisa e à extensão (AU).

The Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, which caused the COVID-19 pandemic, has been causing worldwide problems beyond the disease itself, for instance in Education, which became unable to provide face-to-face meetings, it had tofind ways to make possible to continue the teaching-learning processes. Considering the pandemic scenario and the need to continue their activities, the members of Academic Nursing League in Family Healthhad to adapt to a remote format and use their creativity to bridge the physical barriers of a classroom. Objective:To report academic extension actions developed virtually by members of the Nursing League in Family Health, demonstrating its importance for college education in nursing.Methodology:This is a descriptive study, an experience report developed from the activities performed by members of theAcademic Nursing League in Family Health, bounded to the Nursing College of Vale do Acaraú State University, in Sobral city, Ceará state.Results:Extension actions were performed using Instagramand Youtubeplatforms, by creating videos, educational images, and events approaching current and relevant topics for health promotion. Taking into consideration the sanitary reality of the population, topics werecategorized in the following groups: social cooperation; professional, academic, and community integration; academic politization; special dates; and vaccination.Conclusions:This report reinforces the university-society interaction facing restructuring moments and the relevance of academic leagues as an extracurricular strategy of teaching, integrating it to research and extension actions (AU).

El Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo Severo Coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2), provocador de la pandemia del COVID-19, ha ocasionado a nivel mundial problemas más allá de la enfermedad, como por ejemplo en la Educación, que, ante la imposibilidad de ofrecer citas presenciales, ha necesitado encontrar formas de generar oportunidades para la continuidad de los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje. De esa forma, la Liga de Enfermería en Salud de la Familia, considerando el escenario de la pandemia y la necesidadde seguir con las actividades, ha tenido que adaptarse al formato remoto y a echar creatividad para rebasar las barreras físicas del aula. Objetivo:Informar las acciones de extensión desarrolladas virtualmente por la Liga de Enfermería en Salud de la Familia, demostrando su relevancia para la formación académica en el curso de Enfermería. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo, del tipo relato de experiencia, desarrollado a partir de las actividades de los estudiantes de Enfermería de la Liga de Enfermería en Salud de la Familia vinculada al Curso de Enfermería de la Universidad Estatal Vale do Acaraú, Sobral, Ceará. Resultados: Se ha realizado la extensión en línea a través de Instagramy Youtube, con la creación de videos, imágenes educativas y eventos con temas actuales y relevantes para la promoción de la salud, considerando la realidad de la salud, divididos en ejes: cooperación social, interprofesional, académica e integración comunitaria, politización académica, fechas conmemorativas y vacunación.Conclusiones: Este informe refuerza la interacción universidad-sociedad frente a momentos de reestructuración, y la relevancia de lasLigas como estrategias de enseñanza extracurricular, integrándose con la investigación y la extensión (AU).

Design of Lactococcus lactis Strains Producing Garvicin A and/or Garvicin Q, Either Alone or Together with Nisin A or Nisin Z and High Antimicrobial Activity against Lactococcus garvieae.

Lactococcus garvieae is a main ichthyopathogen in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum) farming, although bacteriocinogenic L. garvieae with antimicrobial activity against virulent strains of this species have also been identified. Some of the bacteriocins characterized, such as garvicin A (GarA) and garvicin Q (GarQ), may show potential for the control of the virulent L. garvieae in food, feed and other biotechnological applications. In this study, we report on the design of Lactococcus lactis strains that produce the bacteriocins GarA and/or GarQ, either alone or together with nisin A (NisA) or nisin Z (NisZ). Synthetic genes encoding the signal peptide of the lactococcal protein Usp45 (SPusp45), fused to mature GarA (lgnA) and/or mature GarQ (garQ) and their associated immunity genes (lgnI and garI, respectively), were cloned into the protein expression vectors pMG36c, which contains the P32 constitutive promoter, and pNZ8048c, which contains the inducible PnisA promoter. The transformation of recombinant vectors into lactococcal cells allowed for the production of GarA and/or GarQ by L. lactis subsp. cremoris NZ9000 and their co-production with NisA by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis DPC5598 and L. lactis subsp. lactis BB24. The strains L. lactis subsp. cremoris WA2-67 (pJFQI), a producer of GarQ and NisZ, and L. lactis subsp. cremoris WA2-67 (pJFQIAI), a producer of GarA, GarQ and NisZ, demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity (5.1- to 10.7-fold and 17.3- to 68.2-fold, respectively) against virulent L. garvieae strains.

Cirrhosis is associated with lower serological responses to COVID-19 vaccines in patients with chronic liver disease.

Background & Aims: The response of patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) to COVID-19 vaccines remains unclear. Our aim was to assess the humoral immune response and efficacy of two-dose COVID-19 vaccines among patients with CLD of different aetiologies and disease stages. Methods: A total of 357 patients were recruited in clinical centres from six European countries, and 132 healthy volunteers served as controls. Serum IgG (nM), IgM (nM), and neutralising antibodies (%) against the Wuhan-Hu-1, B.1.617, and B.1.1.529 SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins were determined before vaccination (T0) and 14 days (T2) and 6 months (T3) after the second-dose vaccination. Patients fulfilling inclusion criteria at T2 (n = 212) were stratified into 'low' or 'high' responders according to IgG levels. Infection rates and severity were collected throughout the study. Results: Wuhan-Hu-1 IgG, IgM, and neutralisation levels significantly increased from T0 to T2 in patients vaccinated with BNT162b2 (70.3%), mRNA-1273 (18.9%), or ChAdOx1 (10.8%). In multivariate analysis, age, cirrhosis, and type of vaccine (ChAdOx1 > BNT162b2 > mRNA-1273) predicted 'low' humoral response, whereas viral hepatitis and antiviral therapy predicted 'high' humoral response. Compared with Wuhan-Hu-1, B.1.617 and, further, B.1.1.529 IgG levels were significantly lower at both T2 and T3. Compared with healthy individuals, patients with CLD presented with lower B.1.1.529 IgGs at T2 with no additional key differences. No major clinical or immune IgG parameters associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection rates or vaccine efficacy. Conclusions: Patients with CLD and cirrhosis exhibit lower immune responses to COVID-19 vaccination, irrespective of disease aetiology. The type of vaccine leads to different antibody responses that appear not to associate with distinct efficacy, although this needs validation in larger cohorts with a more balanced representation of all vaccines. Impact and Implications: In patients with CLD vaccinated with two-dose vaccines, age, cirrhosis, and type of vaccine (Vaxzevria > Pfizer BioNTech > Moderna) predict a 'lower' humoral response, whereas viral hepatitis aetiology and prior antiviral therapy predict a 'higher' humoral response. This differential response appears not to associate with SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence or vaccine efficacy. However, compared with Wuhan-Hu-1, humoral immunity was lower for the Delta and Omicron variants, and all decreased after 6 months. As such, patients with CLD, particularly those older and with cirrhosis, should be prioritised for receiving booster doses and/or recently approved adapted vaccines.

Should midline diastema in mixed dentition be an aesthetic concern?

BACKGROUND: Mixed dentition determines an important period of occlusion development in childhood. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the aesthetic impact of the midline diastema cut-off point in mixed dentition. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was performed with 257 children aged 8-10 years in late mixed dentition, with midline diastema of 1-5 mm and normal maxillary overjet. Orthodontic Aesthetic Subjective Impact Score determined the aesthetic impact of the midline diastema. Four quartiles of diastema measurements and impact scores were considered as cut-off points. Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were constructed, and the distances representing the distances to the ideal point were calculated. The Yuden index determined the efficiency of measuring the diastema to assess the aesthetic impact. The Kruskal-Wallis test compared the groups of participants classified according to the diastema cut-off by the sample quartile regarding the impact score. The analyses were performed with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the four groups of measurement quartiles of the diastema regarding the aesthetic impact (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The perception of dental aesthetics in mixed dentition children was not affected by the midline diastema, regardless of the cut-off point.

Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Dentists in Latin America's Epicenter: São Paulo, Brazil.

The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of stress and anxiety symptoms among dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. A structured questionnaire was sent electronically to 93,280 dentists with active registration in the Dental Council of São Paulo, Brazil, enquiring about information regarding the first-wave peak period in Brazil. Descriptive analyses of background characteristics, perceptions of preparedness, and psychological impact were calculated. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed, and independent variables that showed p < 0.20 were used in the adjusted logistic regression model to compare the psychological impact on dental professionals. Among the 2113 respondents, female participants had 63% lower chance of reporting anxiety than males. Older dentists had a lower likelihood of reporting anxiety compared to 21-30-year-old dentists (p ≤ 0.05). Dentists working in the public health service were 1.78 times more likely to report anxiety than those who worked in private practice. Finally, dentists in the COVID-19 high-risk group and those with a family or team member with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis were more likely to have anxiety. This study can help dental and other healthcare professionals to better understand the consequences of COVID-19 in terms of mental health.

NiTi SMA Superelastic Micro Cables: Thermomechanical Behavior and Fatigue Life under Dynamic Loadings.

Shape memory alloy (SMA) micro cables have a wide potential for attenuation of vibrations and structural health monitoring due to energy dissipation. This work evaluates the effect of SMA thermomechanical coupling during dynamic cycling and the fatigue life of NiTi SMA micro cables submitted to tensile loadings at frequencies from 0.25 Hz to 10 Hz. The thermomechanical coupling was characterized using a previously developed methodology that identifies the self-heating frequency. When dynamically loaded above this frequency, the micro cable response is dominated by the self-heating, stiffening significantly during cycling. Once above the self-heating frequency, structural and functional fatigues of the micro cable were evaluated as a function of the loading frequency for the failure of each individual wire. All tests were performed on a single wire with equal cross-section area for comparison purposes. We observed that the micro cable's functional properties regarding energy dissipation capacity decreased throughout the cycles with increasing frequency. Due to the additional friction between the filaments of the micro cable, this dissipation capacity is superior to that of the single wire. Although its fatigue life is shorter, its delayed failure compared to a single wire makes it a more reliable sensor for structural health monitoring.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF OPEN FRACTURES AND DEGREE OF SATISFACTION OF INITIAL CARE.

Introduction: Open fractures, although uncommon, with trauma have costs that exceed all other reasons for hospitalizations. Its epidemiology has fundamental importance to plan treatment and define priorities. Objective: To assess prospectively the epidemiological profile of open fractures and the degree of satisfaction with initial care. Methods: Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study was carried out in a convenience sample of open fractures. Quantitative, qualitative, and epidemiological aspects regarding open fractures were evaluated, as well as the degree of satisfaction with the initial care. Results: 124 patients treated with 155 open fractures. 88% were male; mean age 43 years (± 42.99); non-white (56.72%); married (52.41%); low level of education (51.60%); farmer, self-employed, bricklayer, industrialist (51.60%); with monthly earnings of up to 2 minimum wages (87%); healthy (76.13%); victims of labor accidents (39.51%) in bones of the hands (58.02%); 55% on the left side; attended between Thursday to Saturday (50%); work shift 6 a.m.-6 p.m. (77%). There was high level of satisfaction with the initial care provided (98%). Conclusion: Open fractures were related to healthy men, 43 years old, low education and low income, predominant in upper limbs, at 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Thursday to Saturday. Most were satisfied with the service provided. Level of Evidence II, Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study.

Introdução: As fraturas expostas, apesar de pouco comuns, têm custos que superam todos os outros motivos das internações. Sua epidemiologia é de fundamental importância para planejar o tratamento e definir prioridades. Objetivos: Avaliar prospectivamente o perfil epidemiológico das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação do atendimento inicial. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, prospectivo, descritivo, observacional, em amostra de conveniência das fraturas expostas. Avaliaram-se aspectos epidemiológicos quantitativos e qualitativos das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação com o atendimento inicial. Resultados: Foram atendidos 124 pacientes com 155 fraturas expostas. Desses, 88% eram do sexo masculino com média de idade 43 anos (± 42,99); não branco (56,72%); casado (52,41%); com baixo nível de instrução (51,60%); agricultor, autônomo, pedreiro ou industriário (51,60%); com ganho mensal de até dois salários-mínimos (87%); hígidos (76,13%); vítimas de acidentes trabalhistas (39,51%) nos ossos das mãos (58,02%); especialmente do lado esquerdo (55%); atendidos entre quinta-feira e sábado (50%); no período diurno (77%). Esses pacientes mostraram elevado nível de satisfação com o atendimento inicial realizado (98%). Conclusões: As fraturas expostas se relacionaram com homens hígidos, em torno de 43 anos, baixo grau de instrução e baixa renda, nos membros superiores, no período diurno de quinta a sábado. A maioria ficou satisfeita com o atendimento prestado. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Epidemiológico, Prospectivo, Descritivo e Observacional.

Digital workflow to produce esthetic space maintainers for growing patients.

Digital workflows have been used to enhance the predictability of oral rehabilitations. However, techniques to digitally design and manufacture esthetic space maintainers by following a prosthetically driven treatment plan for young patients are lacking. This technique report describes a full digital workflow to produce computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) esthetic space maintainers by using intraoral scans, a dental CAD software program, and a milling machine. CAD-CAM space maintainers can be provided for young patients with satisfactory patient compliance and with minimal chairside adjustment.

Draft Genome Sequence of Lactococcus lactis Subsp. cremoris WA2-67: A Promising Nisin-Producing Probiotic Strain Isolated from the Rearing Environment of a Spanish Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum) Farm.

Probiotics are a viable alternative to traditional chemotherapy agents to control infectious diseases in aquaculture. In this regard, Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris WA2-67 has previously demonstrated several probiotic features, such as a strong antimicrobial activity against ichthyopathogens, survival in freshwater, resistance to fish bile and low pH, and hydrophobicity. The aim of this manuscript is an in silico analysis of the whole-genome sequence (WGS) of this strain to gain deeper insights into its probiotic properties and their genetic basis. Genomic DNA was purified, and libraries prepared for Illumina sequencing. After trimming and assembly, resulting contigs were subjected to bioinformatic analyses. The draft genome of L. cremoris WA2-67 consists of 30 contigs (2,573,139 bp), and a total number of 2493 coding DNA sequences (CDSs). Via in silico analysis, the bacteriocinogenic genetic clusters encoding the lantibiotic nisin Z (NisZ) and two new bacteriocins were identified, in addition to several probiotic traits, such as the production of vitamins, amino acids, adhesion/aggregation, and stress resistance factors, as well as the absence of transferable antibiotic resistance determinants and genes encoding detrimental enzymatic activities and virulence factors. These results unveil diverse beneficial properties that support the use of L. cremoris WA2-67 as a probiotic for aquaculture.

Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturer indirect versus direct composite restorations: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study compared the clinical performance of large indirect restorations (IRs) versus direct restorations (DRs) in posterior teeth. METHODS: Thirty subjects received two class II restorations (n = 60), one fabricated from a precured composite block (Grandio Blocs, VOCO) for the indirect technique (IT) and the other with light-cured composite (GrandioSO, VOCO) for the direct technique (DT). For IT, the restoration was created using the computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturer (CAD/CAM) system. For DT, the material was applied light-cured by using a layering technique. All restorations were evaluated by using the World Dental Federation criteria. RESULTS: Twenty-three subjects attended the 2-year recall, and 46 restorations were evaluated. No significant differences were detected between the techniques for most parameters analyzed (p > 0.05). For "color match" at 7 days and 6 months, better results were observed for the DT. In relation to the overall scores, all restorations were esthetically acceptable after 2 years, while 93.3% of DT and 90% of IT showed acceptable function. For biological scores, 96.67% of DRs and 100% of IRs was acceptable after 24 months. Considering all properties, the success rates were 93.3% for DRs and 90% for IRs. CONCLUSIONS: After 2 years, both restorations presented similar and good clinical behavior for all the properties analyzed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Light-cured direct posterior composite restorations may perform similarly to indirect composite restorations made with precured CAD/CAM composite blocks up to 2 years.

Self-collected unstimulated saliva, oral swab, and nasopharyngeal swab specimens in the detection of SARS-CoV-2.

OBJECTIVES: The presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus in the saliva of patients infected with COVID-19 has been confirmed by several studies. However, the use of saliva for the diagnosis of COVID-19 remains limited, because of the discrepancies in the results, which might be due to using different saliva sampling methods. The purpose of this study was to compare the consistency of SARS-CoV-2 detection using two different saliva sampling methods (oral swab and unstimulated saliva) to that of the standard nasopharyngeal swab. METHODS: Fifty-five subjects were recruited from a pool of COVID-19 inpatient at the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein (HIAE), Brazil. Nasopharyngeal swab, oral swab, and self-collected unstimulated saliva samples were examined for SARS-CoV-2 using RT-PCR. RESULTS: Self-collected unstimulated saliva demonstrated 87.3% agreement in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus as compared with the nasopharyngeal swab, while oral swab displayed 65.9% agreement when compared to nasopharyngeal swab and 73% when compared to self-collected unstimulated saliva. CONCLUSION: Unstimulated self-collected saliva samples have shown a higher agreement with the nasopharyngeal swab samples for SARS-COV-2 detection than that obtained when using oral swab samples. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study compares the accuracy of COVID-19 test using different saliva sampling methods to that of nasopharyngeal swab. Given the need for a simple self-applied test that can be performed at home, our findings support the efficacy of self-collected unstimulated saliva samples in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, alleviating the demands for swab supplies, personal protective equipment, and healthcare personnel.

How does the brown mussel Perna perna respond to environmental pollution? A review on pollution biomarkers.

The brown mussel Perna perna (Linnaeus, 1758) is a valuable resource for aquaculture in tropical and subtropical coastal regions. It presents desirable characteristics for biomonitoring, including being sessile, widely distributed and abundant, and is a filter-feeder able to accumulate several classes of pollutants (e.g., metals, hydrocarbons, among others). Mussels' biological responses to pollution exposure can be measured as biomarkers, which include alterations ranging from molecular to physiological levels, to estimate the degree of environmental contamination and its effects on biota. This full review compiles two decades (2000-2020) of literature concerning biological effects on P. perna mussel caused by environmental pollutants (i.e., metals, hydrocarbons, and emerging pollutants), considering environmental and farm-based biomonitoring. Biochemical markers related to mussels' oxidative status were efficient for the biomonitoring of metals (i.e., antioxidant enzymes associated with oxidative damage in biomolecules). Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity indicators (i.e., comet, micronucleus, and neutral red assays) provided a depiction of hydrocarbon contamination. The neutral red assay gave a time-concentration cytotoxic response to a wide range of pollutants, including emerging pollutants (e.g., pharmaceuticals and biocides) and hydrocarbons. Perna perna hemocyte parameters provided a useful approach for biocide biomonitoring. This paper summarizes useful biomarkers from molecular to physiological levels in this mussel species used to identify and quantify the degree of coastal pollution. An integrated biomarker analysis may provide a way to overcome possible biomarker variations and assess multi-polluted sites. Nevertheless, it is necessary to investigate biomarker variations according to natural factors (e.g., season and gonad maturation stage) to standardize them for trustworthy biomonitoring.

Epidemiology of open fractures and degree of satisfaction of initial care / Epidemiologia das fraturas expostas e grau de satisfação do atendimento inicial

ABSTRACT Introduction: Open fractures, although uncommon, with trauma have costs that exceed all other reasons for hospitalizations. Its epidemiology has fundamental importance to plan treatment and define priorities. Objective: To assess prospectively the epidemiological profile of open fractures and the degree of satisfaction with initial care. Methods: Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study was carried out in a convenience sample of open fractures. Quantitative, qualitative, and epidemiological aspects regarding open fractures were evaluated, as well as the degree of satisfaction with the initial care. Results: 124 patients treated with 155 open fractures. 88% were male; mean age 43 years (± 42.99); non-white (56.72%); married (52.41%); low level of education (51.60%); farmer, self-employed, bricklayer, industrialist (51.60%); with monthly earnings of up to 2 minimum wages (87%); healthy (76.13%); victims of labor accidents (39.51%) in bones of the hands (58.02%); 55% on the left side; attended between Thursday to Saturday (50%); work shift 6 a.m.-6 p.m. (77%). There was high level of satisfaction with the initial care provided (98%). Conclusion: Open fractures were related to healthy men, 43 years old, low education and low income, predominant in upper limbs, at 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Thursday to Saturday. Most were satisfied with the service provided. Level of Evidence II, Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study.

RESUMO Introdução: As fraturas expostas, apesar de pouco comuns, têm custos que superam todos os outros motivos das internações. Sua epidemiologia é de fundamental importância para planejar o tratamento e definir prioridades. Objetivos: Avaliar prospectivamente o perfil epidemiológico das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação do atendimento inicial. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, prospectivo, descritivo, observacional, em amostra de conveniência das fraturas expostas. Avaliaram-se aspectos epidemiológicos quantitativos e qualitativos das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação com o atendimento inicial. Resultados: Foram atendidos 124 pacientes com 155 fraturas expostas. Desses, 88% eram do sexo masculino com média de idade 43 anos (± 42,99); não branco (56,72%); casado (52,41%); com baixo nível de instrução (51,60%); agricultor, autônomo, pedreiro ou industriário (51,60%); com ganho mensal de até dois salários-mínimos (87%); hígidos (76,13%); vítimas de acidentes trabalhistas (39,51%) nos ossos das mãos (58,02%); especialmente do lado esquerdo (55%); atendidos entre quinta-feira e sábado (50%); no período diurno (77%). Esses pacientes mostraram elevado nível de satisfação com o atendimento inicial realizado (98%). Conclusões: As fraturas expostas se relacionaram com homens hígidos, em torno de 43 anos, baixo grau de instrução e baixa renda, nos membros superiores, no período diurno de quinta a sábado. A maioria ficou satisfeita com o atendimento prestado. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Epidemiológico, Prospectivo, Descritivo e Observacional.

Influence of Hypovitaminosis D on the Ocurrence of Fractures.

Objective To measure the levels of vitamin D in patients hospitalized for fractures and to evaluate its relationship with fractures. Methods A primary, analytical, cross-sectional, non-interventional, observational, controlled study was conducted in humans. The serum measurement of: vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and albumin was performed in 49 patients who were consecutively hospitalized for surgery due to fracture(s) (study group), and in 50 patients without fractures, from the various outpatient clinics, and who underwent routine tests (control group). Results The mean level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) in patients with fractures was of 23.78 ± 8.01 ng/mL (61.22% of patients with fractures had hypovitaminosis D). The mean 25(OH)D of the control group was of 37.52 ± 9.21 ng/mL (10% of the patients had hypovitaminosis D). Most cases of hypovitaminosis (96%) did not course with secondary hyperparathyroidism (mean PTH = 41.80 ± 22.75 pg/mL). Conclusion Hypovitaminosis D was found in a significant percentage (61.22%) of the patients who suffered fractures. Further studies on the subject are needed to better understand the influence of hypovitaminosis D on the occurrence of fractures, as well as the benefits of vitamin D supplementation in these patients.

Critical Frequency of Self-Heating in a Superelastic Ni-Ti Belleville Spring: Experimental Characterization and Numerical Simulation.

The mechanical loading frequency affects the functional properties of shape memory alloys (SMA). Thus, it is crucial to study its effect for the successful use of these materials in dynamic applications. Based on the superelastic cyclic behavior, this work presents an experimental methodology for the determination of the critical frequency of the self-heating of a NiTi Belleville conical spring. For this, cyclic compressive tests were carried out using a universal testing machine with loading frequencies ranging from 0.5 Hz to 10 Hz. The temperature variation during the cyclic tests was monitored using a micro thermocouple glued to the NiTi Belleville spring. Numerical simulations of the spring under quasi-static loadings were performed to assist the analysis. From the experimental methodology applied to the Belleville spring, a self-heating frequency of 1.7 Hz was identified. The self-heating is caused by the latent heat accumulation generated by successive cycles of stress-induced phase transformation in the material. At 2.0 Hz, an increase of 1.2 °C in the average temperature of the SMA device was verified between 1st and 128th superelastic cycles. At 10 Hz, the average temperature increase reached 7.9 °C and caused a 10% increase in the stiffness and 25% decrease in the viscous damping factor. Finally, predicted results of the force as a function of the loading frequency were obtained.

Influence of Hypovitaminosis D on the Ocurrence of Fractures / Influência da hipovitaminose D na ocorrência das fraturas

Abstract Objective To measure the levels of vitamin D in patients hospitalized for fractures and to evaluate its relationship with fractures. Methods A primary, analytical, cross-sectional, non-interventional, observational, controlled study was conducted in humans. The serum measurement of: vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and albumin was performed in 49 patients who were consecutively hospitalized for surgery due to fracture(s) (study group), and in 50 patients without fractures, from the various outpatient clinics, and who underwent routine tests (control group). Results The mean level of 25-hydroxyvitaminD (25[OH]D) in patients with fractures was of 23.78 ± 8.01 ng/mL (61.22% of patients with fractures had hypovitaminosis D). The mean 25(OH)D of the control group was of 37.52 ± 9.21 ng/mL (10% of the patients had hypovitaminosis D). Most cases of hypovitaminosis (96%) did not course with secondary hyperparathyroidism (mean PTH = 41.80 ± 22.75 pg/mL). Conclusion Hypovitaminosis D was found in a significant percentage (61.22%) of the patients who suffered fractures. Further studies on the subject are needed to better understand the influence of hypovitaminosis D on the occurrence of fractures, as well as the benefits of vitamin D supplementation in these patients.

Resumo Objetivo Dosar a vitamina D nos pacientes internados por fratura e avaliar sua relação com as fraturas. Métodos Realizou-se estudo primário, analítico, transversal, não intervencional, observacional, controlado, em seres humanos. Fez-se a dosagem sérica de: vitamina D, paratormônio(PTH), cálcio, fósforo, magnésio e albumina em 49 pacientes que foram internados consecutivamente para cirurgia devido a fratura(s) (grupo de estudo), e em 50 pacientes, dos diversos ambulatórios, sem fraturas, e que realizaram exames de rotina (grupo de controle). Resultados A média de 25-hidroxivitamina D (25[OH]D) nos pacientes com fraturas foi de 23,78 ± 8,01 ng/mL (61,22% dos pacientes com fraturas apresentaram hipovitaminose D). A média de 25(OH)D do grupo de controle foi de 37,52 ± 9,21 ng/mL (10% dos pacientes apresentaram hipovitaminose D). A maioria dos casos de hipovitaminose (96%) não cursou com hiperparatireoidismo secundário (média do PTH = 41,80 ± 22,75 pg/mL). Conclusão A hipovitaminose D foi encontrada em um percentual expressivo (61,22%) dos pacientes que sofreram fraturas. Mais estudos sobre o assunto são necessários para se compreender melhor a influência da hipovitaminose D na ocorrência das fraturas e os benefícios da suplementação com vitamina D nesses pacientes.

Proteins from the core genome of Corynebacterium ulcerans respond for pathogenicity and reveal promising vaccine targets for diphtheria.

Corynebacterium ulcerans is an emerging pathogen able to transmit the acute infection diphtheria to humans. Although there is a well-established vaccine based on the toxin produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, another species of this genus known to cause the disease, there is still no vaccine formulations described for C. ulcerans; this fact contributes to the increase in cases of infection that has been observed. In this study, we want to provide information at the genomic level of this bacterium in order to suggest proteins as possible vaccine targets. We carried out an in silico prospection of vaccine candidates through reverse vaccinology for targets that exhibit antigenic potential against diphtheria. We found important virulence factors, such as adhesion-related ones, that are responsible for pathogen-host interaction after infection, but we did not find the diphtheria toxin, which is the main component of the currently available vaccine. This study provides detailed information about the exoproteome and hypothetical proteins from the core genome of C. ulcerans, suggesting vaccine targets to be further tested in vitro for the development of a new vaccine against diphtheria.