A hierarchical Bayesian approach for modeling the evolution of the 7-day moving average of the number of deaths by COVID-19.

In this paper, we propose a hierarchical Bayesian approach for modeling the evolution of the 7-day moving average for the number of deaths due to COVID-19 in a country, state or city. The proposed approach is based on a Gaussian process regression model. The main advantage of this model is that it assumes that a nonlinear function f used for modeling the observed data is an unknown random parameter in opposite to usual approaches that set up f as being a known mathematical function. This assumption allows the development of a Bayesian approach with a Gaussian process prior over f. In order to estimate the parameters of interest, we develop an MCMC algorithm based on the Metropolis-within-Gibbs sampling algorithm. We also present a procedure for making predictions. The proposed method is illustrated in a case study, in which, we model the 7-day moving average for the number of deaths recorded in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Results obtained show that the proposed method is very effective in modeling and predicting the values of the 7-day moving average.

Creatinine and purine derivatives excretion and microbial synthesis in lambs fed rain tree pod meal / [Excreção de creatinina e derivados de purina e síntese microbiana em cordeiros alimentados com farinha de vagem de Samanea saman]

Evaluated the levels of rain tree (Samanea saman) pod meal (RTPM) (0, 10, 15, 20 and 25%) replacing maize in the dry matter of the diet on intake of DM, CP and ME, creatinine and total purine derivatives excretion in urine and microbial protein synthesis in lambs. Twenty-five uncastrated Bergamasca lambs were used, with an initial body weight of 24±5kg and an average age of 120 days. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five treatments and five replications. The trial lasted 84 days and the 24h and spot urine collections were performed in the last day of the experiment. The intake was not affected (P>0.05), the urine volume and daily creatinine excretion were influenced (P<0.05) by RTPM replacing maize, observing increasing linear effect and cubic variation (P<0.05), respectively. The cubic and quadratic components were significant (P<0.05) for the excretion of total purine derivatives, absorbed purines, and microbial synthesis. The cubic variation, with peaks at 5% and 18% replacement for urinary excretion of creatinine and purine derivatives, indicates that the levels used of RTPM affected the renal activity of lambs. Substitution of maize by RTPM up to 10% enhances efficiency of rumen microbial crude protein synthesis.

Avaliaram-se os níveis de farinha de vagem de Samanea saman (0, 10, 15, 20 e 25%) em substituição ao milho na matéria seca da dieta sobre o consumo de MS, PB e EM, a excreção urinária de creatinina e de derivados de purina totais e a síntese de proteína microbiana em cordeiros. Foram utilizados 25 cordeiros Bergamácia, não castrados, peso corporal inicial de 24±5kg e idade média de 120 dias. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos e cinco repetições. O experimento durou 84 dias e as coletas de urina spot e de 24h foram realizadas no último dia do experimento. O consumo não foi afetado (P>0,05), o volume de urina e a excreção diária de creatinina foram influenciados (P<0,05) por S. Saman substituindo o milho, observando-se efeito linear crescente e variação cúbica (P<0,05), respectivamente. Os componentes cúbicos e quadráticos foram significativos (P<0,05) para a excreção de derivados de purina totais, purinas absorvidas e síntese microbiana. A variação cúbica, com picos em 5% e 18% de substituição para a excreção urinária de creatinina e de derivados de purina, indica que os níveis utilizados de S. saman afetaram a atividade renal de cordeiros. Substituição do milho por farelo de vagem de S. saman até 10% aumenta a eficiência de síntese de proteína bruta microbiana.

Relating mechanical properties of vertebral trabecular bones to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is an osteometabolic disease, which promotes structural degradation of bone tissue and reduction of mineral density. We reported here a mechanical resistance assay from normal, osteopenic and osteoporotic trabecular vertebral bones of human cadavers. We performed a compressed test on ninety samples, evaluating Young's modulus and X-ray microtomography to measure bone volume fraction and trabecular thickness. This experimental data are employed for computing the orthotropic macroscopic behavior of vertebral trabecular bones using known analytical formulae that were obtained by Galka et al. (Arch Mech 51: 335-355, 1999) via an asymptotic homogenization model. A geometrical model with a periodic orthogonal plate-like structure is applied. The properties of the bone-trabecular mass are considered linear, homogeneous and orthotropic. Average values for all technical or engineering elastic properties are computed for three important regions of the trabecular bones corresponding to thirty individuals classified as normal, osteopenic or osteoporotic by calcaneus ultrassometry. This study could be useful for a better understanding of the elastic behavior of trabecular bones in human vertebral bodies, allowing an estimation of bone answer under stress in different directions and the risk of fracture associated with osteoporosis.HighlightsDescribing the elastic behavior of trabecular bones in human vertebral bodies at the micro and macroscopic.Allow a better estimation of the stress in different directions and risk of fracture associated with osteoporosis.Model request a very low computational cost.Offer a better understand the global effective coefficients of samples of trabecular bone, from the model of a periodic unit cell, in the format orthogonal plate-like structure with homogeneous bone mass.

Comparação biomecânica de CRIF e placa de reconstrução na estabilização de fraturas distais de fêmur em cães / Biomechanical comparison of CRIF and reconstruction plate for stabilization of distal femur fractures in dogs

O presente estudo objetivou comparar, biomecanicamente, por meio do ensaio de compressão excêntrica, a resistência dos implantes Clamp and Rod Internal Fixation (CRIF) 5,0mm e placa de reconstrução 3,5mm na fixação de fraturas distais de fêmur de cão. Foram utilizados 22 fêmures de 11 cadáveres de cão entre 2 e 7 anos de idade e peso corporal entre 20 e 40kg e subdivididos em dois grupos, denominados grupo CRIF (GC - 11 fêmures) e grupo placa (GP - 11 fêmures). Para realização dos testes, foi simulada falha que mimetizasse uma fratura distal nos corpos de prova, por meio de uma osteotomia de até 0,5cm, realizada com auxílio de serra oscilatória, imediatamente proximal ao início da tróclea. Os implantes foram fixados segundo os padrões AOSIF, lateralmente ao fêmur, sendo utilizados três parafusos distais e cinco proximais ao foco de fratura. Foi empregado o programa de computador PMI para calcular o ponto máximo de resistência antes da falha e avaliaram-se as variáveis força máxima, deformação máxima real, rigidez, força intermediária e deformação intermediária real. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os GC e GP quanto às variáveis avaliadas, sugerindo que ambos os implantes são boas opções de fixações para tais fraturas.(AU)

This study aims to compare the biomechanical properties, through compression eccentric test, of the resistance of the 5.0mm Clamp and Rod Internal Fixation Implants (CRIF) and 3.5mm reconstruction plate in fixing dog femur distal fracture. It was used 22 femurs from 11 dog cadavers with age between 2 and 7 years old and body weight between 20 and 40kg, subdivided into two groups, called CRIF Group (CG - 11 femurs) and plate group (PG - 11 femurs). A distal fracture in the specimens with a gap of 0.5cm osteotomy, was simulated to perform the test, performed by the oscillating saw, just proximal to the beginning of the trochlea. The implants were fixed by the standards AO / SIF, laterally to the femur, using three distal screws and five proximal to the fracture site. PMI computer program was used to calculate the maximum point of resistance before failure and evaluated the variables maximum strength, real maximum deformation, stiffness, intermediate strength and real intermediate deformation. No statistically significant differences were found between the GC and GP as the variables evaluated, suggesting that both implants are good fixation options for such fractures.(AU)

Comparação biomecânica de CRIF e placa de reconstrução na estabilização de fraturas distais de fêmur em cães / Biomechanical comparison of CRIF and reconstruction plate for stabilization of distal femur fractures in dogs

O presente estudo objetivou comparar, biomecanicamente, por meio do ensaio de compressão excêntrica, a resistência dos implantes Clamp and Rod Internal Fixation (CRIF) 5,0mm e placa de reconstrução 3,5mm na fixação de fraturas distais de fêmur de cão. Foram utilizados 22 fêmures de 11 cadáveres de cão entre 2 e 7 anos de idade e peso corporal entre 20 e 40kg e subdivididos em dois grupos, denominados grupo CRIF (GC - 11 fêmures) e grupo placa (GP - 11 fêmures). Para realização dos testes, foi simulada falha que mimetizasse uma fratura distal nos corpos de prova, por meio de uma osteotomia de até 0,5cm, realizada com auxílio de serra oscilatória, imediatamente proximal ao início da tróclea. Os implantes foram fixados segundo os padrões AOSIF, lateralmente ao fêmur, sendo utilizados três parafusos distais e cinco proximais ao foco de fratura. Foi empregado o programa de computador PMI para calcular o ponto máximo de resistência antes da falha e avaliaram-se as variáveis força máxima, deformação máxima real, rigidez, força intermediária e deformação intermediária real. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os GC e GP quanto às variáveis avaliadas, sugerindo que ambos os implantes são boas opções de fixações para tais fraturas.(AU)

This study aims to compare the biomechanical properties, through compression eccentric test, of the resistance of the 5.0mm Clamp and Rod Internal Fixation Implants (CRIF) and 3.5mm reconstruction plate in fixing dog femur distal fracture. It was used 22 femurs from 11 dog cadavers with age between 2 and 7 years old and body weight between 20 and 40kg, subdivided into two groups, called CRIF Group (CG - 11 femurs) and plate group (PG - 11 femurs). A distal fracture in the specimens with a gap of 0.5cm osteotomy, was simulated to perform the test, performed by the oscillating saw, just proximal to the beginning of the trochlea. The implants were fixed by the standards AO / SIF, laterally to the femur, using three distal screws and five proximal to the fracture site. PMI computer program was used to calculate the maximum point of resistance before failure and evaluated the variables maximum strength, real maximum deformation, stiffness, intermediate strength and real intermediate deformation. No statistically significant differences were found between the GC and GP as the variables evaluated, suggesting that both implants are good fixation options for such fractures.(AU)

Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor is higher after combat training (Randori) than incremental ramp test in elite judo athletes.

Elite judo demands high levels of physical and psychological skills. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be of particular interest in sports medicine for its ability to promote neuroplasticity. We investigated the plasma BDNF before and after a judo training session (Randori) and the maximal incremental ramp test (MIRT) in athletes from the Brazilian national judo team and compared the results between both exercise stimuli and sexes. Fifty-six elite judo athletes were recruited who performed each task on a separated day. Anthropometric, physiological, athletic parameters, and plasma BDNF levels were measured before and after the tasks (Randori and MIRT). The groups presented similar anthropometric and physiological characteristics at baseline for the two tasks. All athletes reached maximal performance for the tasks. Plasma levels of BDNF increased significantly after Randori and MIRT for all subjects, both men and women. When comparing both exercise stimuli, a greater increase in BDNF was observed after Randori. There was no significant difference in the delta BDNF between sexes. Our findings indicate that training specificity of sport gestures influenced the increase of blood BDNF levels.

Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor is higher after combat training (Randori) than incremental ramp test in elite judo athletes

Elite judo demands high levels of physical and psychological skills. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be of particular interest in sports medicine for its ability to promote neuroplasticity. We investigated the plasma BDNF before and after a judo training session (Randori) and the maximal incremental ramp test (MIRT) in athletes from the Brazilian national judo team and compared the results between both exercise stimuli and sexes. Fifty-six elite judo athletes were recruited who performed each task on a separated day. Anthropometric, physiological, athletic parameters, and plasma BDNF levels were measured before and after the tasks (Randori and MIRT). The groups presented similar anthropometric and physiological characteristics at baseline for the two tasks. All athletes reached maximal performance for the tasks. Plasma levels of BDNF increased significantly after Randori and MIRT for all subjects, both men and women. When comparing both exercise stimuli, a greater increase in BDNF was observed after Randori. There was no significant difference in the delta BDNF between sexes. Our findings indicate that training specificity of sport gestures influenced the increase of blood BDNF levels.

Propriedades mecânicas de dois padrões de sutura e dois tipos de fios aplicados às tenorrafias dos equinos / Tenorrhaphy in horses: comparison of the mechanical properties of two different suture patterns and suture materials

As lesões traumáticas dos membros que resultam em secções tendíneas são problemas comuns na clínica equina. Diversas complicações têm sido associadas à reparação dos tendões nessa espécie. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar biomecanicamente dois padrões de sutura e dois diferentes materiais aplicados às tenorrafias. Vinte e quatro peças de tendão flexor digital profundo de equinos foram seccionadas e suturadas em padrão locking loop duplo (grupo 1, com polipropileno; grupo 2, com poliglactina) ou em padrão locking loop simples associado à sutura de epitendão (grupo 3, com polipropileno; grupo 4, com poliglactina). Os corpos de prova foram submetidos a ensaios mecânicos de tração, em que se determinaram valores de força mínima, força máxima e pico de força, além do afastamento observado entre os cotos durante o pico máximo de força. Para avaliação dos resultados, foram utilizados os métodos ANOVA e os não paramétricos de Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney (P<0,05). Os maiores valores de força máxima foram documentados no grupo 3. Os valores de força mínima foram maiores nos grupos 3 e 4 que nos grupos 1 e 2, mas não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos 3 e 4. Os valores de pico de força foram maiores nos grupos 1 e 2 que no grupo 4, mas não diferiram significativamente no grupo 3. O afastamento foi maior nos grupos 1 e 2 quando comparados aos grupos 3 e 4. O padrão locking loop simples, com sutura de epitendão, atingiu maior resistência quando avaliado afastamento de até 3 milímetros entre os cotos tendíneos, sendo considerado padrão de escolha para aplicação clínica, tendo em vista os resultados obtidos neste trabalho.(AU)

Traumatic distal limb injuries resulting in tendon rupture are common in equine practice. Several complications have been associated with tendon repair in horses. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of two tenorrhaphy techniques using two different suture materials. Twenty-four equine deep digital flexor tendon specimens were transected and sutured with the double locking loop pattern (polypropylene, group 1; polyglactin, group 2) or the single locking loop pattern with peripheral epitendon suture (polypropylene, group 3; polyglactin, group 4). Specimens were submitted to mechanical strain testing. Maximum, minimum and peak strain, and maximum, minimum and peak gap formation were evaluated. ANOVA and the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used (P<0.05). Higher maximum strength values were documented in group 3. Minimum strength values were higher in groups 3 and 4 than 1 and 2, but did not differ significantly between groups 3 and 4. Peak strength values were higher in groups 1 and 2 than 4, but did not differ significantly from group 3. Gap formation was greater in groups 1 and 2 than 3 and 4. The single locking loop pattern with epitendon suture performed with polypropylene had greater resilience, yielded lesser gap formation (3 mm) and is the pattern of choice for clinical application based on the results of this study.(AU)

Propriedades mecânicas de dois padrões de sutura e dois tipos de fios aplicados às tenorrafias dos equinos / Tenorrhaphy in horses: comparison of the mechanical properties of two different suture patterns and suture materials

As lesões traumáticas dos membros que resultam em secções tendíneas são problemas comuns na clínica equina. Diversas complicações têm sido associadas à reparação dos tendões nessa espécie. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar biomecanicamente dois padrões de sutura e dois diferentes materiais aplicados às tenorrafias. Vinte e quatro peças de tendão flexor digital profundo de equinos foram seccionadas e suturadas em padrão locking loop duplo (grupo 1, com polipropileno; grupo 2, com poliglactina) ou em padrão locking loop simples associado à sutura de epitendão (grupo 3, com polipropileno; grupo 4, com poliglactina). Os corpos de prova foram submetidos a ensaios mecânicos de tração, em que se determinaram valores de força mínima, força máxima e pico de força, além do afastamento observado entre os cotos durante o pico máximo de força. Para avaliação dos resultados, foram utilizados os métodos ANOVA e os não paramétricos de Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney (P<0,05). Os maiores valores de força máxima foram documentados no grupo 3. Os valores de força mínima foram maiores nos grupos 3 e 4 que nos grupos 1 e 2, mas não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos 3 e 4. Os valores de pico de força foram maiores nos grupos 1 e 2 que no grupo 4, mas não diferiram significativamente no grupo 3. O afastamento foi maior nos grupos 1 e 2 quando comparados aos grupos 3 e 4. O padrão locking loop simples, com sutura de epitendão, atingiu maior resistência quando avaliado afastamento de até 3 milímetros entre os cotos tendíneos, sendo considerado padrão de escolha para aplicação clínica, tendo em vista os resultados obtidos neste trabalho.(AU)

Traumatic distal limb injuries resulting in tendon rupture are common in equine practice. Several complications have been associated with tendon repair in horses. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of two tenorrhaphy techniques using two different suture materials. Twenty-four equine deep digital flexor tendon specimens were transected and sutured with the double locking loop pattern (polypropylene, group 1; polyglactin, group 2) or the single locking loop pattern with peripheral epitendon suture (polypropylene, group 3; polyglactin, group 4). Specimens were submitted to mechanical strain testing. Maximum, minimum and peak strain, and maximum, minimum and peak gap formation were evaluated. ANOVA and the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used (P<0.05). Higher maximum strength values were documented in group 3. Minimum strength values were higher in groups 3 and 4 than 1 and 2, but did not differ significantly between groups 3 and 4. Peak strength values were higher in groups 1 and 2 than 4, but did not differ significantly from group 3. Gap formation was greater in groups 1 and 2 than 3 and 4. The single locking loop pattern with epitendon suture performed with polypropylene had greater resilience, yielded lesser gap formation (3 mm) and is the pattern of choice for clinical application based on the results of this study.(AU)

Perovskite-type titanate zirconate as photocatalyst for textile wastewater treatment.

Calcium titanate zirconate, Ca(Ti(1-x)Zrx)O3 (CZT), powders have been synthesised by the polymeric precursor method. The structural analysis of the CZT powders was monitored by X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) and textural analysis. The photocatalytic properties were evaluated by methylene blue (MB) decomposition and real textile wastewater (RTW) combined treatment (coagulation/flocculation/photocatalysis). Chemical oxygen demand (COD) of RTW was successfully reduced from 6195 mg L-1 (untreated) to 662 mg L-1 after coagulation/flocculation with a tannin-based coagulant (Tanfloc®) and finally to 471 mg L-1 after combined treatment (coagulation/flocculation/photocatalysis) applying ultraviolet radiation and CaTiO3 as photocatalyst.

Comportamento biomecânico de diferentes placas de avanço da tuberosidade da tíbia em cães: estudo comparativo ex vivo / Biomechanical behavior of two different tibial tuberosity advancement plates in dogs: comparative ex vivo biomechanical study

This is the first study to compare the biomechanical strength between the two different TTA plates. With the purpose of minimizing the incidence of implant failure, biomechanical tests were performed on 10 pairs of cadaveric hind limbs from dogs. The right hind limb of each dog was used as a model for the TTA plate fixed by fork, and the left pelvic limb was used as a model for the TTA plate fixed by screws. Tests were performed using a universal mechanical testing Kratos (r) machine, model KE 3000, equipped with a load cell of 3000N with a test speed of 20mm/min. The strength parameter and graphs generated were recorded via analog acquisition system TRACOMP-W95 (TRCV61285). The mean load to failure was 128.70kg/F (minimum 104.55kg and maximum 151.80kg/F) and 141.99kg/F (minimum 111.60kg/F and maximum 169.65kg/F) in the fork and screws groups respectively. The standard deviation of the fork and screws groups was low: 12.99 and 17.21 respectively. Significant difference (P= 0.03) between means of the groups was observed. From the results obtained it was concluded that there is a statistically significant difference in the resistance between plates and the plate fixed by screws promotes increased strength.(AU)

Este é o primeiro estudo que compara o comportamento biomecânico de duas diferentes placas de avanço da tuberosidade tibial (ATT). Com o objetivo de minimizar a incidência de falhas de implante, foram realizados ensaios biomecânicos em 10 pares de membros pélvicos de cadáveres de cães. No membro pélvico direito, foi colocada placa de ATT fixa por garfo, e no membro pélvico esquerdo placa fixa por parafusos. Os ensaios foram realizados utilizando-se máquina universal de ensaios mecânicos Kratos(r), modelo KE3000, dotada de célula de carga de 3000N, com velocidade de ensaio de 20mm/min. O parâmetro força e os gráficos gerados foram gravados por meio de sistema de aquisição analógica TRACOMP-W95 (TRCV61285). A média da carga máxima até a falha foi de 128,70kg/F (mínimo 104,55kg/F e máximo 151,80kg/F) e de 141,99kg/F (mínimo 111,60kg/F e máximo 169,65kg/F) no grupo utilizando garfo e parafusos, respectivamente. O desvio-padrão dos grupos garfo e parafuso foi baixo, 12,99 e 17,21, respectivamente. Foi encontrada diferença significativa (P=0,03) entre as médias dos grupos. Com base nos resultados obtidos, conclui-se que existe diferença estatística significativa na resistência promovida entre as placas testadas, quando se observou que a placa fixa por parafusos promove maior resistência.(AU)

Comportamento biomecânico de diferentes placas de avanço da tuberosidade da tíbia em cães: estudo comparativo ex vivo / Biomechanical behavior of two different tibial tuberosity advancement plates in dogs: comparative ex vivo biomechanical study

Este é o primeiro estudo que compara o comportamento biomecânico de duas diferentes placas de avanço da tuberosidade tibial (ATT). Com o objetivo de minimizar a incidência de falhas de implante, foram realizados ensaios biomecânicos em 10 pares de membros pélvicos de cadáveres de cães. No membro pélvico direito, foi colocada placa de ATT fixa por garfo, e no membro pélvico esquerdo placa fixa por parafusos. Os ensaios foram realizados utilizando-se máquina universal de ensaios mecânicos Kratos(r), modelo KE3000, dotada de célula de carga de 3000N, com velocidade de ensaio de 20mm/min. O parâmetro força e os gráficos gerados foram gravados por meio de sistema de aquisição analógica TRACOMP-W95 (TRCV61285). A média da carga máxima até a falha foi de 128,70kg/F (mínimo 104,55kg/F e máximo 151,80kg/F) e de 141,99kg/F (mínimo 111,60kg/F e máximo 169,65kg/F) no grupo utilizando garfo e parafusos, respectivamente. O desvio-padrão dos grupos garfo e parafuso foi baixo, 12,99 e 17,21, respectivamente. Foi encontrada diferença significativa (P=0,03) entre as médias dos grupos. Com base nos resultados obtidos, conclui-se que existe diferença estatística significativa na resistência promovida entre as placas testadas, quando se observou que a placa fixa por parafusos promove maior resistência.(AU)

This is the first study to compare the biomechanical strength between the two different TTA plates. With the purpose of minimizing the incidence of implant failure, biomechanical tests were performed on 10 pairs of cadaveric hind limbs from dogs. The right hind limb of each dog was used as a model for the TTA plate fixed by fork, and the left pelvic limb was used as a model for the TTA plate fixed by screws. Tests were performed using a universal mechanical testing Kratos (r) machine, model KE 3000, equipped with a load cell of 3000N with a test speed of 20mm/min. The strength parameter and graphs generated were recorded via analog acquisition system TRACOMP-W95 (TRCV61285). The mean load to failure was 128.70kg/F (minimum 104.55kg and maximum 151.80kg/F) and 141.99kg/F (minimum 111.60kg/F and maximum 169.65kg/F) in the fork and screws groups respectively. The standard deviation of the fork and screws groups was low: 12.99 and 17.21 respectively. Significant difference (P= 0.03) between means of the groups was observed. From the results obtained it was concluded that there is a statistically significant difference in the resistance between plates and the plate fixed by screws promotes increased strength.(AU)

Estudo biomecânico comparativo da resistência de segmentos ósseos de rádios de cães autoclavados ou desvitalizados em nitrogênio líquido / Biomechanical comparative study of the strength of bone segments from the radius of dogs autoclaved and devitalized in liquid nitrogen

O presente estudo comparou, por meio do ensaio de flexão em quatro pontos, a resistência de segmentos de rádios de cães autoclavados e desvitalizados em nitrogênio líquido. Avaliaram-se 40 rádios, que foram divididos em quatro grupos: grupo autoclave (GA), grupo controle autoclave (GCA), grupo nitrogênio (GN) e grupo controle nitrogênio (GCN). Os corpos de prova dos grupos GCA e GCN pertenciam ao lado contralateral dos grupos GA e GN, respectivamente. Os ossos foram autoclavados a 121°C, por 20min a 2atm. A desvitalização em nitrogênio foi realizada por meio da imersão em nitrogênio líquido, por 20min, seguida de descongelamento à temperatura ambiente, sendo finalizada por imersão em solução de NaCL a 0,9%, por mais 15min. Após os testes biomecânicos, foram comparadas as variáveis força máxima, rigidez, altura máxima à secção transversa do corpo de prova, deslocamento do baricentro em relação ao eixo x, flecha, tensão-tração, tensão-compressão e tensão máxima. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos GN e GCN. Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos GA e GCA somente na comparação da variável força máxima. A análise das variáveis tensão-tração, tensão-compressão e tensão máxima evidenciou diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos GA e GN, sendo os valores maiores para o grupo GA. Também foi realizada comparação entre os deltas (GN menos GCN e GA menos GCA), em que não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas.(AU)

The study compared through the four points bending test, the strength of bone segments autoclaved and devitalized in liquid nitrogen radius segments. 40 radius were used, collected and divided into 4 groups, as follows: Autoclave Group (GA), Control Autoclave Group (GCA), Nitrogen Group (NG) and Control Nitrogen Group (GCN). Bone segments from groups GCA and GCN were contralateral to GA and NG. The segments were autoclaved at 121ºC and 2 atm for 20 minutes. Nitrogen devitalization of the bone segments was obtained by 20 minutes immersion, followed by thawing at room temperature and 15 minutes immersion in 0.9% NaCL solution. After biomechanical tests the variables compared were maximum strength, stiffness, maximum hight trough the transverse section of the bone segment, centers of mass dislocation in relation to x axe, arrow, stress-tension, stress-compression and maximum stress. No statistically significant differences between the GN and GCN groups were found. Statistically significant differences were found between GA and GCA groups only in the comparison of the maximum force variable. The analysis of variable stress-tension, stress-compression and maximum stress showed statistically significant differences between the GA and GN groups, with higher values for the GA group. Comparison of the deltas (GN least GCN and GA least GCA) where no statistical differences were observed was also performed.(AU)

A Set of miRNAs, Their Gene and Protein Targets and Stromal Genes Distinguish Early from Late Onset ER Positive Breast Cancer.

UNLABELLED: Breast cancer (BC) in young adult patients (YA) has a more aggressive biological behavior and is associated with a worse prognosis than BC arising in middle aged patients (MA). We proposed that differentially expressed miRNAs could regulate genes and proteins underlying aggressive phenotypes of breast tumors in YA patients when compared to those arising in MA patients. OBJECTIVE: Using integrated expression analyses of miRs, their mRNA and protein targets and stromal gene expression, we aimed to identify differentially expressed profiles between tumors from YA-BC and MA-BC. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS: Samples of ER+ invasive ductal breast carcinomas, divided into two groups: YA-BC (35 years or less) or MA-BC (50-65 years) were evaluated. Screening for BRCA1/2 status according to the BOADICEA program indicated low risk of patients being carriers of these mutations. Aggressive characteristics were more evident in YA-BC versus MA-BC. Performing qPCR, we identified eight miRs differentially expressed (miR-9, 18b, 33b, 106a, 106b, 210, 518a-3p and miR-372) between YA-BC and MA-BC tumors with high confidence statement, which were associated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics. The expression profiles by microarray identified 602 predicted target genes associated to proliferation, cell cycle and development biological functions. Performing RPPA, 24 target proteins differed between both groups and 21 were interconnected within a network protein-protein interactions associated with proliferation, development and metabolism pathways over represented in YA-BC. Combination of eight mRNA targets or the combination of eight target proteins defined indicators able to classify individual samples into YA-BC or MA-BC groups. Fibroblast-enriched stroma expression profile analysis resulted in 308 stromal genes differentially expressed between YA-BC and MA-BC. CONCLUSION: We defined a set of differentially expressed miRNAs, their mRNAs and protein targets and stromal genes that distinguish early onset from late onset ER positive breast cancers which may be involved with tumor aggressiveness of YA-BC.

Estudo biomecânico comparativo da resistência de segmentos ósseos de rádios de cães autoclavados ou desvitalizados em nitrogênio líquido / Biomechanical comparative study of the strength of bone segments from the radius of dogs autoclaved and devitalized in liquid nitrogen

O presente estudo comparou, por meio do ensaio de flexão em quatro pontos, a resistência de segmentos de rádios de cães autoclavados e desvitalizados em nitrogênio líquido. Avaliaram-se 40 rádios, que foram divididos em quatro grupos: grupo autoclave (GA), grupo controle autoclave (GCA), grupo nitrogênio (GN) e grupo controle nitrogênio (GCN). Os corpos de prova dos grupos GCA e GCN pertenciam ao lado contralateral dos grupos GA e GN, respectivamente. Os ossos foram autoclavados a 121°C, por 20min a 2atm. A desvitalização em nitrogênio foi realizada por meio da imersão em nitrogênio líquido, por 20min, seguida de descongelamento à temperatura ambiente, sendo finalizada por imersão em solução de NaCL a 0,9%, por mais 15min. Após os testes biomecânicos, foram comparadas as variáveis força máxima, rigidez, altura máxima à secção transversa do corpo de prova, deslocamento do baricentro em relação ao eixo x, flecha, tensão-tração, tensão-compressão e tensão máxima. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos GN e GCN. Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos GA e GCA somente na comparação da variável força máxima. A análise das variáveis tensão-tração, tensão-compressão e tensão máxima evidenciou diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos GA e GN, sendo os valores maiores para o grupo GA. Também foi realizada comparação entre os deltas (GN menos GCN e GA menos GCA), em que não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas.(AU)

The study compared through the four points bending test, the strength of bone segments autoclaved and devitalized in liquid nitrogen radius segments. 40 radius were used, collected and divided into 4 groups, as follows: Autoclave Group (GA), Control Autoclave Group (GCA), Nitrogen Group (NG) and Control Nitrogen Group (GCN). Bone segments from groups GCA and GCN were contralateral to GA and NG. The segments were autoclaved at 121ºC and 2 atm for 20 minutes. Nitrogen devitalization of the bone segments was obtained by 20 minutes immersion, followed by thawing at room temperature and 15 minutes immersion in 0.9% NaCL solution. After biomechanical tests the variables compared were maximum strength, stiffness, maximum hight trough the transverse section of the bone segment, centers of mass dislocation in relation to x axe, arrow, stress-tension, stress-compression and maximum stress. No statistically significant differences between the GN and GCN groups were found. Statistically significant differences were found between GA and GCA groups only in the comparison of the maximum force variable. The analysis of variable stress-tension, stress-compression and maximum stress showed statistically significant differences between the GA and GN groups, with higher values for the GA group. Comparison of the deltas (GN least GCN and GA least GCA) where no statistical differences were observed was also performed.(AU)

Insect cell entrapment, growth and recovering using a single-use fixed-bed bioreactor. Scaling up and recombinant protein production.

Insect cells are largely used for industrial production of vaccines, viral vectors and recombinant proteins as well as in research and development as an important tool for biology and bioprocess studies. They grow in suspension and are semi-adherent cells. Among the cell culture systems enabling scalable bioprocess the single-use fixed-bed iCELLis(®) bioreactors offer great advantages. We have established the conditions for Drosophila melanogaster Schneider 2 (S2) and Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells entrapment into the fixed-bed, cell growth and recover from the fixed-bed once high cell densities were attained. Our established protocol allowed these cells, at a cell seeding of 2×1E5 cells/microfiber carriers (MC) (3.5×1E6cells/mL; 1.7×1E4cells/cm(2)), to grow inside a 4m(2)/200mL fixed-bed attaining a concentration of 5.3×1E6 cells/MC (9.5×1E7cells/mL; 4.7×1E5 cells/cm(2)) for S2 cells or 4.6×1E6 cells/MC (8×1E7cells/mL; 4.1×1E5cells/cm(2)) for Sf9 cells. By washing the fixed-bed, entrapped cells could then be recovered from the fixed-bed at a high rate (>85%) with high viability (>95%) by increasing the agitation to 1200/1500rpm. Although the cell yields in the fixed-bed bioreactor were comparable to those obtained in a stirred tank (respectively, 1.3×1E10 and 2.5×1E10 total cells), S2 cells stably transfected with a cDNA coding for the rabies virus glycoprotein (RVGP) showed a 30% higher preserved rRVGP production (2.5±0.1 and 1.9±0.1µg/1E7 cells), as evidenced by a conformational ELISA evaluation. These findings demonstrate not only the possibility to entrap, cultivate to high densities and recover insect cells using a single-use fixed-bed bioreactor, but also that this system provides suitable physiological conditions for the entrapped cells to produce a cell membrane associated recombinant protein with higher specific biological activity as compared to classical suspension cell cultures.

Nosocomial bloodstream infections in a nationwide study: comparison between solid organ transplant patients and the general population.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of bloodstream infection (BSI) varies according to the transplanted organ. Mortality can be as high as 24%, with a significant impact on graft survival. Transplantation is a risk factor for multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms, but comparison with a non-transplanted population in a single large cohort has not been described. METHODS: This is a prospective nationwide study (16 centers) reporting data on 2364 monomicrobial nosocomial BSIs, comparing 83 episodes in solid organ transplant patients with 2447 BSIs occurring in the general hospital population. RESULTS: The prevalence of groups of infecting organisms (gram-positive, gram-negative, and fungi) was similar between transplant patients and the general population and a similar crude mortality rate was observed (34.9% in transplant vs. 43.3% in non-transplant patients). Staphylococcus aureus was the single most frequently isolated organism in both groups, and Acinetobacter species was more frequently isolated in the general population. Regarding MDR organisms, Klebsiella species, and Enterobacter species resistant to cefepime, as well as Acinetobacter species resistant to meropenem, were significantly more frequent in transplant patients. CONCLUSION: Antimicrobial resistance is higher, particularly among gram-negative bacteria in the transplant population, although the overall mortality rate between transplant and non-transplant patients with nosocomial BSI is similar.

Assessment of the function and resistance of sternoclavicular ligaments: A biomechanical study in cadavers.

BACKGROUND: Few biomechanical studies have assessed the resistance of the ligamentous structures of the sternoclavicular joint, and none have reproduced the physiological movements of the joint. Determining the structures that are injured in sternoclavicular dislocations is important for the surgical planning of acute or chronic ligament reconstruction. METHODS: Forty-eight joints from 24 human cadavers were studied, and they were divided into 4 groups of 12 joints each (retraction, protraction, depression and elevation). Biomechanical testing assessed primary and secondary failures. The mechanical resistance parameters between movements that occurred on the same plane (depression versus elevation, protraction versus retraction) were compared. RESULTS: The posterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most injured structure during the protraction test, but it was not injured during retraction. The anterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during retraction and depression. The costoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during elevation. Joint resistance was significantly greater during protraction movements when compared to retraction (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The anterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during retraction and depression movements. During protraction, lesions of the posterior sternoclavicular ligament were most frequent during elevation, and the costoclavicular ligament was the most frequently injured ligament. The resistance of the sternoclavicular joint was significantly greater during protraction movement when compared to retraction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, basic science, biomechanics, cadaver model.

Interaction of Schistosoma mansoni Sporocysts and Hemocytes of Biomphalaria.

Human infection by Schistosoma mansoni affects more than 100 million people worldwide, most often in populations of developing countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The transmission of S. mansoni in human populations depends on the presence of some species of Biomphalaria that act as an intermediate host. The compatibility between S. mansoni and its intermediate host is influenced by behavioral, physiological, and genetical factors of the mollusc and the parasite. The susceptibility level of the mollusc has been attributed to the capacity of internal defense system (IDS)-hemocytes and soluble components of the hemolymph-to recognize and destroy the parasite, and this will be the center of interest of this paper. The schistosome-resistant Biomphalaria can be an alternative strategy for the control of schistosomiasis.

Tunnel excavation triggering pulmonary sarcoidosis.

CONTEXT: A definite cause of sarcoidosis has not been identified, however past research suggests that environmental factors may be triggers of the granulomatous response in genetically susceptible individuals. CASE PRESENTATION: A 22-year-old male non-smoker, presented with progressive exertional dyspnea and cough of 3 months duration. One year before, when he started working in tunnel excavation, he had a normal chest radiograph. Chest imaging revealed bilateral nodules and masses of peribronchovascular distribution plus mediastinal lymphadenomegaly. Histologic lymph node analysis revealed non-caseating confluent granulomas. Sarcoidosis was diagnosed. The patient was treated with corticosteroids and advised to change jobs. Complete remission of the disease was achieved and persisted for at least one year without steroid treatment. DISCUSSION: Sarcoidosis is believed to have environmental triggers. The timing of the onset of sarcoidosis in this patient following intensive exposure to tunnel dust suggests an environmental contribution. The recognition that sarcoidosis may have occupational triggers have medical, employment, and legal implications.