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The aging process leads to negative changes in various bodily systems, including the neuromuscular system. Strength training, is considered the best strategy to counteract these neuromuscular changes, preventing sarcopenia and frailty in older adults. To compare the effects of strength training with elastic resistance and free weights on the muscle strength of knee extensors and flexors and functional performance in the older adults. This was a randomised clinical study. Thirty-one participants of both sexes were allocated randomly into two groups: Training Group Free Weight (TGFW, n = 15) and Training Group with Elastic Resistance (TGER, n = 16). Two individuals were excluded and so, twenty-nine individuals were evaluated before and after eight weeks training protocol, which was performed three times a week. The determination of the training load was obtained using a protocol of 10 repetitions maximum. No significant differences were found in either the intra- or the inter-group comparisons, on functional performance and peak muscle strength. In the intra-groups (pre- and post-strength training), it was observed that both groups significantly increased the training load (10 RM) for the extensors (TGFW p = 0.0002; TGER p = 0.0001) and the knee flexors (TGFW p = 0.006; TGER p = 0.0001). Both training protocols similarly were effective in increasing the training load observed by the 10 RM test of the extension and flexion movements of the knee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the fast growth of mobile phone usage, malicious threats against Android mobile devices are enhanced. The Android system utilizes a wide range of sensitive apps like banking apps; thus, it develops the aim of malware that uses the vulnerability of safety measures. Identifying Android malware in smartphones is a vital target for the cyber community to eliminate menacing malware instances. Drawing stimulus from the adaptability and efficacy of biological systems, these methods emulate nature's problem-solving systems for identifying malicious software. By integrating principles, namely, swarm intelligence (SI), neural networks (NN), and genetic algorithms (GA), these bioinspired systems reveal exceptional efficiency in identifying both known and developing Android malware attacks. This bioinspired system provides a capable avenue for robust Android malware detection from an ever-shifting threat landscape. This article designs a Bioinspired Artificial Intelligence-based Android Malware Detection and Classification (BAI-AMDC) technique for Cybersecurity Applications. The BAI-AMDC technique exploits the concept of bioinspired algorithms with a DL approach for the classification and detection of Android malware. In the BAI-AMDC technique, an improved cockroach swarm optimization algorithm-based feature selection (ICSOA-FS) technique can be applied to choose optimum features. The BAI-AMDC technique employs a bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) model for Android malware detection. An arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) can be utilized to enhance the detection performance of the BAI-AMDC technique. The experimental validation of the BAI-AMDC system can be performed on the CICAndMal2017 database with 10,000 instances. The simulation values highlighted the productive ability of the BAI-AMDC system on the Android malware recognition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this cohort study were to compare the mandibular morphology between patients with Robin sequence (RS) and controls, and to examine the effects of mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) using different vectors. Measurements of the mandibles of 80 patients with RS and 46 controls aged< 90 days were made using computed tomography. The data were compared among isolated RS patients (n = 58), sy n dromic RS patients (n = 22), a n d controls. Patients with RS exhibited significantly shorter ramus and body lengths and larger symphyseal angles than controls (all P < 0.001). P atients with isolated RS had shorter body lengths (P < 0.001), while syndromic patients had shorter ramus and body lengths (both P < 0.001) than controls. Seventy RS patients underwent MDO. Pre-MDO (n = 37) and post-MDO (n = 29) mandibular measurements were compared between patients undergoing MDO with a vertical vector and those undergoing MDO with a horizontal vector. Polysomnography data from part of the cohort highlighted the effectiveness of both vectors. MDO with a horizontal vector conferred 11% and 36% increases in ramus and body length, respectively, while these increases were 34% and 27.5%, respectively, with a vertical vector. MDO with a vertical vector was effective in lengthening ramus and body components and should be considered in the presence of ramus hypoplasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in developing lithium-sulfur batteries (LiSBs) due to their high specific energy capacity, low manufacturing materials, and robustness. However, the operation of these batteries is mainly limited by the shuttle effect and dendrite growth on the sulfur cathode and lithium anode, respectively. This review examines different operando techniques to understand these issues better. In situ and operando characterization techniques complement electrochemical studies by identifying structural, chemical, and morphological changes in the electrodes and lithium-polysulfide's behavior during charge and discharge processes. This review also details the advantages of several in situ / operando characterization techniques to study LiSBs and the electrochemical cells most suited and commonly used in the literature for each analysis presented here. It adds light to the discussion of how electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) can be used jointly with the advanced techniques discussed in this work. Here, 18 different in situ/operando techniques are summarized using the recent advanced studies in LiSBs characterization. This review presents state-of-the-art characterizations to guide researchers interested in using new in situ/operando tools for characterizing LiSBs. [Display omitted] • Briefly introduce the most commonly used electrochemical cells for each in situ/operando technique. • Guide young researchers on how to characterize LiPSs using the most advanced in situ/operando techniques to solve problems. • Detailing the limitations and contributions of the most in situ/operando techniques applied in LiSBs systems. • Demonstrate how the EIS is applied in various in situ/operando scenarios in LiSB systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The effects of Amazonian protected areas on surface water quality are poorly studied. • The effect of protected areas on water quality is stronger in deforested regions. • Sediment loads in Amazonian rivers are lower inside than outside protected areas. • Protected areas enhance the quality of waters sourced from upstream unprotected areas. Protected Areas (PAs) are pivotal instruments in natural resource conservation and maintaining or enhancing ecosystem services, including hydrological functions. In the Amazon, the impact of PAs on the quality of river waters remains largely overlooked. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate whether Environmental Protected Areas (EPAs) and Indigenous Lands (ILs) efficiently protect the quality of surface waters in the Brazilian Amazon. Water quality variables from river gauge stations distributed across the lowlands Amazon are analyzed according to baseline river hydrogeochemistry classification, both inside and outside PAs. This study found that whitewater and clearwater rivers coursing within EPAs and ILs show lower turbidity and electrical conductivity compared to those outside PAs, likely due to the buffering effect of dense forest cover within protected landscapes. Moreover, data indicate that protected areas enhance the water quality from upstream unprotected landscapes in the Brazilian Amazon. These results highlight the need to further invest on effective mechanisms of water resource conservation across lowland tropical regions, and particularly in the Earth's largest watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We extend the notion of the determinant function Λ , originally introduced by T.Fack for τ -compact operators, to a natural algebra of τ -measurable operators affiliated with a semifinite von Neumann algebra which coincides with that defined by Haagerup and Schultz in the finite case and on which the determinant function is shown to be submultiplicative. Application is given to Hölder type inequalities via general Araki–Lieb–Thirring inequalities due to Kosaki and Han and to a Weyl-type theorem for uniform majorization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study two subclasses of Banach limits: that consisting of Banach limits which are invariant with respect of the Cesàro operator and that consisting of Banach limits which are invariant with respect to all dilations. We prove that the first is a proper subset of the second. We also show that these classes are at maximal distance from the set ext B of all extreme points of the set of all Banach limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry-off involves a series of changes to the cows' routine to achieve cessation of lactation. One of these methodologies includes a change in diet, typically to a feed that is lower in energy. Although this is effective in reducing milk production, it has potential negative welfare effects. The objective of this case study was to investigate the effect of two hay diets on dry matter intake, milk yield (MY), lying behavior, and vocalizations of dairy cows at dry-off on a farm in Brazil. Sixteen Holstein dairy cows were assigned to one of two dietary treatments: diet 1 = Vaquero (Cynodon dactylon) or diet 2 = Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.). Cows were monitored for 3 days before dry-off and 5 days after. Baseline results are presented as mean ± SEM or mean and 95% confidence interval. Before provision of hay diets (day −2 to day 0), each cow was consuming 8.9 ± 0.5 kg/d of dry matter of total mixed ration, MY was 9.5 ± 0.3 kg/d, and they were lying down for 10.9 ± 0.7 h/d, over 7.8 (6.2-9.8) bouts/d. Regardless of treatment, compared with baseline, MY (mean ± standard error of the difference) decreased by 5.2 ± 0.3 kg/d on day 1 and a further 1.0 ± 0.3 kg/d on day 5. Similarly, lying time and bouts were not affected by treatment, but they did change compared with baseline, likely because of an effect of the skipped milking schedule. Highly variable vocalization data prevented modeling of this variable. In conclusion, low-producing dairy cows at dry-off could be fed either diet to reduce milk production, without negatively affecting feed intake or lying behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess and compare oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) in women with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disk displacement without reduction, before disk repositioning and anchoring surgery, in short-term follow-up, in different age groups, and with use of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14).Study Design: Fifty women ages between 17 and 60 years were divided into 4 age groups: 17-27, 28-38, 39-49, and 50-60 years. All the patients were asked to answer the OHIP-14 form before surgery and during their short-term follow-up. Seven domains of OHRQOL were rated on a 5-point Likert scale from 0 (never) to 4 (very often). Domains' scores and total OHIP-14 were compared between times by using Student's t test in the whole sample and in the 4 age groups.Results: Both the whole sample and the age groups (17-27, 28-38, 39-49 years) showed a statistically significant decrease in all scores (P < .01). The age group 50-60 years showed a decrease in scores significant only in functional limitation (P = .05) CONCLUSIONS: TMJ disk anterior displacement had a negative impact on women's OHRQOL because of physical pain, physical disability, and psychological discomfort. TMJ disk repositioning and anchoring surgery improved overall OHRQOL in patients between 17 and 49 years of age; however, in patients between 50 and 60 years of age, there was improvement only in physical pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Since spring 2011 the roof of a building on the Agripolis Campus of the University of Padova (Italy) has been used as a drainage area for two rain gardens with a circular area of about 10% and 20% of the drainage area respectively. To improve soil infiltration, the topsoil was removed up to the depth of 1 m and filled with a mix of 50% sand, 25% compost and 25% of the existing topsoil. Herbaceous perennials were selected and planted to test their adaptability to different soil water conditions in the rain garden. To evaluate the capacity of each rain garden to manage stormwater runoff a simplified water balance was done, estimating actual evapotranspiration using the WUCOLS method. From autumn 2012 runoff volumes were collected just from one pitch of the roof, and directed only into the smaller rain garden that became equal to 15% of the new roof drainage area. We thus had the possibility to test the functionality of rain gardens with three different percentages of roof drainage area: 10, 15 and 20%, even if in different periods. Results are presented relating to a four-year experimental period. Regarding hydrological behaviour, the input water volumes caused a slight overflow only during a few rainfall events. Consequently, the results showed a high capacity to manage stormwater runoff and also in the smaller rain garden almost the total roof runoff volumes infiltrated into the soil. As regards plants, the results indicated that the growth is affected by their position in the rain garden, from the wettest condition in the centre to the driest at the perimeter, except for Hemerocallis hybrida that showed great adaptability in all positions. Aster novi-belgii , Echinacea purpurea, Iris pseudacorus, Molinia caerulea and Rudbeckia fulgida also showed good adaptation, even if not in all rain garden zones, with highly aesthetic results. Lythrum salicaria and Saponaria officinalis plants appeared to be unsuitable for rain gardens. The results of the experiment have shown that, in the Veneto plain environment, rain gardens with a size of 10–15% of the roof drainage area can ensure both the sustainable management of stormwater runoff and a high aesthetic functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spinel oxide Co 2 Mn 0.5 Al 0.5 O 4 (CMA) was investigated as an additive onto the cathode of lithium-sulfur batteries. We demonstrate the polysulfide adsorption onto CMA, mitigating the shuttle effect, a well-known failure mechanism. The in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry tests evidenced that CMA facilitates the conversion of short-chain lithium polysulfides (LPS). The CMA reduced the maximum voltammetric current by approximately 20% compared to the AC/S cathode and facilitates the conversion of LPS into solid-liquid-solid species. High conversion efficiencies were verified after 315 cycles, resulting in 89% of capacity retention. Low CMA concentrations of up to 10 wt.% increased battery capacity and showed that CMA has high ionic conductivity, while moderate concentrations of approximately 50 wt.% improved cyclability but increased cell's resistivity. This improvement in cyclability is related to LPS trapped at CMA which is demonstrated by micrographs, X-ray energy dispersive and photoelectron spectra of post-mortem samples. The byproducts formed after cycling until failure, were identified by Raman spectra and diffraction patterns. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy operando analyses suggested electrolyte decomposition as a relevant cell failure mechanism. In conclusion, we demonstrated how CMA can trap LPS and enhanced initial capacity to 1000 mA h g-1 sulfur cm-2 and improved cyclability for more than ∼360 cycles. [Display omitted] • Operando FTIR shows the influence of the CMA with the electrolyte and their future degradation mechanism. • CMA cathode demonstrated 98.8% of efficiency during more than 300 cycles with 89% of capacity retention at 1 C. • In-situ EIS from more critical CV steps shows a decrease in shuttle effect. • Post-mortem ex-situ complete analysis using DRX, Raman, XPS, MEV and EDS. • UV-VIS test in high and low concentrations to prove the absorption properties of CMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since spring 2011 the roof of a building on the Agripolis Campus of the University of Padova (Italy) has been used as a drainage area for two rain gardens with a circular area of about 10% and 20% of the drainage area respectively. To improve soil infiltration, the topsoil was removed up to the depth of 1 m and filled with a mix of 50% sand, 25% compost and 25% of the existing topsoil. Herbaceous perennials were selected and planted to test their adaptability to different soil water conditions in the rain garden. To evaluate the capacity of each rain garden to manage stormwater runoff a simplified water balance was done, estimating actual evapotranspiration using the WUCOLS method. From autumn 2012 runoff volumes were collected just from one pitch of the roof, and directed only into the smaller rain garden that became equal to 15% of the new roof drainage area. We thus had the possibility to test the functionality of rain gardens with three different percentages of roof drainage area: 10, 15 and 20%, even if in different periods. Results are presented relating to a four-year experimental period. Regarding hydrological behaviour, the input water volumes caused a slight overflow only during a few rainfall events. Consequently, the results showed a high capacity to manage stormwater runoff and also in the smaller rain garden almost the total roof runoff volumes infiltrated into the soil. As regards plants, the results indicated that the growth is affected by their position in the rain garden, from the wettest condition in the centre to the driest at the perimeter, except for Hemerocallis hybrida that showed great adaptability in all positions. Aster novi-belgii , Echinacea purpurea, Iris pseudacorus, Molinia caerulea and Rudbeckia fulgida also showed good adaptation, even if not in all rain garden zones, with highly aesthetic results. Lythrum salicaria and Saponaria officinalis plants appeared to be unsuitable for rain gardens. The results of the experiment have shown that, in the Veneto plain environment, rain gardens with a size of 10–15% of the roof drainage area can ensure both the sustainable management of stormwater runoff and a high aesthetic functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5–8% of the population suffers from a food allergy that can potentially lead to a severe reaction. Different factors of severity have been studied, but the relationship between the amount of allergen consumed and the severity of the reaction has never been investigated. Therefore, there is uncertainty regarding the consumption of very small amounts of allergen (traces). The aim of our study was to analyze qualitatively and quantitatively the allergen content in foods that have caused a food allergy reaction. We collected during one year (2021) medical history, food samples eliciting reactions and allergy diagnostic tests of patients presenting reactions suggestive with immediate food allergy and consulting in the emergency departments in the University Hospitals of Geneva and local hospitals or in the allergology outpatient consultation. The samples were analyzed by immunoassays and mass spectrometry. In total, we recruited 145 patients, 105 (72.4%) were children. Patients were mostly reacting to milk, egg, tree and peanuts. 30% of the reactions were severe reactions needing epipen. When analyzing the foods, we found in the 115 food samples analyzed so far eliciting doses from 12.8 mg/kg to 1000 g/kg of food. In this non-exhaustive series of food allergic reaction over one year in the canton of Geneva, we higlighted that (1) there is no general relationship between severity and quantity of allergen consumed, (2) "trace" declaration on foodstuff does not reflect the quantity of allergen in the foodstuff and doesn't provide the necessary information for allergic patient. In conclusion, results for this study will help to provide better counselling for prevention of accidental reactions, in particular in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ibead-CELipC12 is a metagenomic lipase, LipC12, immobilized directly from a crude extract onto Immobead 150. We evaluated its solvent and thermal stability and its potential for producing flavor esters and structured lipids. Ibead-CELipC12 had residual activities above 88% after 24 h at 40 °C in toluene, iso-octane, n -hexane and n -heptane and 72% after 24 h at 60 °C in n -hexane. In esterification of palmitic acid, Ibead-CELipC12 gave higher activities with ethanol, propanol and butanol than with isopropanol. In esterification of caprylic acid with ethanol, propanol and butanol, Ibead-CELipC12 performed best with butanol, giving 62% conversion in 6 h. Ibead-CELipC12 was sn -1,3-specific during triolein hydrolysis and was therefore used to convert olive oil into an MLM structured lipid containing 23% of caprylic acid in the sn -1 and sn -3 positions. These results demonstrate that Ibead-CELipC12 has good potential to be used in the enzymatic synthesis of flavor esters and structured lipids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of world air traffic has been accompanied by a significant increase of its environmental impact, including CO 2 emissions, which has forced the European Union to include aviation in its Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS). The EU ETS is a market-based mechanism that obliges airlines to buy or sell carbon permits, thus forcing them to share confidential information with their competitors in an auction-based market. Disclosure of confidential information will be one of the main barriers for the ETS adoption. In this contribution we describe the design and implementation of a Secure Multi-party Computation framework, capable of overcoming these barriers. The framework runs as an online, cloud-based computational service for performing CO 2 trading securely without the need of sharing business information. Benefits and limitations of the proposed approach are discussed, as well as the challenges to be overcome towards an operational implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Some authors have reported the antimicrobial action of photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) on bacteria related to nosocomial infections but there are few studies evaluating PACT on Serratia marcescens grown as planktonic cultures or as biofilms. The purpose of this study was to analyze the S. marcescens resistance profile and its susceptibility to PACT. Methods Initially, 55 S. marcescens strains isolated from environmental, oral and extra-oral infections were tested by antimicrobial resistance to cefotaxime (CTX), imipenem (IPM), ciprofloxacin (CIP), tobramycin (TOB) and doxycycline (DOX) using E-test ® . Following, isolates grown as planktonic cultures or biofilms were submitted to PACT using the association of a light-emitting diode and toluidine blue (TBO). The E-test ® results demonstrated intermediated sensitive strains to CTX, IMP, TOB, and DOX; and resistant strains to CTX, TOB, DOX and CIP. Also, CTX and IMP demonstrated variation when CLSI 2007 and CLSI 2015 were compared. Results Planktonic cultures and biofilms submitted to PACT demonstrated counts varying from 10 11 to 10 7 for planktonic cultures and 10 10 to 10 7 for biofilms. There were no statistical differences in the results when planktonic cultures and biofilms were compared. Conclusions Increase in the profile of S. marcescens resistance was observed when CLSI 2007 and CLSI 2015 were compared. Also, IMP remains as the drug with lower rate of resistance. Additionally, both S. marcescens planktonic cultures and early biofilms are susceptible to PACT under tested conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Summary Background Nursing research is not well-developed in Italy, and knowledge of the methodologies for conducting research is lacking. In several hospitals, including those in which this study was conducted, a research center has been established to support and educate nurses on how to conduct clinical research. Aims and Objectives In this observational study, we sought to assess whether establishing a support center for nursing research has resulted in an increase in scientific production in terms of the numbers of protocols approved (primary outcome), articles published and nurse authors involved in the publications (secondary outcomes). Design Multiple interrupted time series. Methods Data from 2002 to 2012 were collected in seven hospitals. Research centers have been established at various times in only four of these hospitals. Results A statistically significant increase in the primary outcome (the number of protocols approved by the Research Ethics Committee in which the principal investigator was a nurse) was observed in two hospitals approximately 2 years after establishing a research center. The number of nursing research articles published in scientific journals with an impact factor increased but was not statistically significant. Finally, the number of nurse authors increased significantly in two hospitals with support units. Definitive conclusions could not be reached for the other two experimental hospitals because notably few post-intervention data were available. In the control hospitals, the scientific production outcomes did not change. Conclusions This study shows that establishing a support center for nursing research inside hospitals can facilitate the production of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuning the parameters of the Model Predictive Control (MPC) of an industrial Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) is considered here. A realistic scenario is depicted where the inputs of the CDU system have optimizing targets, which are provided by the Real Time Optimization layer of the control structure. It is considered the nominal case, in which both the CDU model and the MPC model are the same. The process outputs are controlled inside zones instead of at fixed set points. Then, the tuning procedure has to define the weights that penalize the output error with respect to the control zone, the weights that penalize the deviation of the inputs from their targets, as well as the weights that penalize the input moves. A tuning approach based on multi-objective optimization is proposed and applied to the MPC of the CDU system. The performance of the controller tuned with the proposed approach is compared through simulation with the results of an existing approach also based on multi-objective optimization. The simulation results are similar, but the proposed approach has a computational load significantly lower than the existing method. The tuning effort is also much lower than in the conventional practical approaches that are usually based on ad-hoc procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The herbicide atrazine has been extensively applied to several crops, and its accumulation in soils and waters can cause environmental impacts and risks to human health. Remediation of contaminated areas has become a global concern, and biochar stands out as an emerging technology for the sorption of pesticides residues. This systematic review aims to synthesize the state-of-knowledge for feedstocks used in the biochar production and its application with different pesticides, providing an overview of the outcomes from the most studied feedstock and pesticide. Retrieved documents regarding the combined use of the two factors (i.e., wood and atrazine) were selected for analysis. In general, the sorption results of the publications had good fits to the Freundlich model; though, Langmuir and linear isotherms were also applied to describe the atrazine sorption. Initial concentrations of atrazine ranged from 0.001 to 200 mg L−1 in equilibrium tests, aiming to assess the maximum sorption capacity of the biochar; However, a great part of these concentrations exceed the values usually detected in freshwater (at µg L−1 levels), which significantly limits the evaluation of the toxicological potential after treatment with biochar. Another knowledge gap refers to the effects of atrazine on terrestrial organisms, which are even less studied than those on aquatic species. Ecotoxicity bioassays should be combined with sorption experiments to study different parameters (e.g., equilibrium, kinetics, and column). Future research should address the complexity of ecosystems, desorption experiments, field application, biochar aging, atrazine degradation, and microbiology. [Display omitted] • Biochar production is a vital path in waste management and to a circular economy. • Atrazine and wood were the most studied pesticide and biochar feedstock in review. • Most research is sorption lab-based tests; it lacks field and desorption studies. • Ecotoxicity tests with soil organisms are needed to compare effects and estimate risks. • Biochar's feasibility, long-term studies and microbiology effects are still a gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ultraconservative removal of carious tissue is becoming increasingly highlighted for management of deep caries lesions, and combined with an antimicrobial photochemistry-based treatment modality (PACT), this approach can be enhanced favoring dental tissue repair and preservation. The aim was to investigate the effectiveness of PACT using a light emitting diode (LED) associated with a photosensitizer toluidine blue ortho (TBO) on deep caries lesions. Methods For that, a single blind, randomized, controlled, split-mouth clinical trial where 45 patients with at least two deep carious lesions on permanent posterior teeth was performed. The primary intervention was deep caries lesion management with disinfection of remaining dentin tissue using PACT. Bacterial counts were measured following treatments as the main outcome. The remaining dentinal samples of each lesion were treated with either non-PACT-control or PACT. The PACT procedure were characterized by 100 μg mL −1 TBO followed by 94 J cm −2 LED irradiation. Samples of dentin were collected before and immediately after treatments for microbiological analysis of total viable bacteria, mutans streptococci and Lactobacillus spp. counts. Microbial reduction was data were submitted to unpaired t test ( α = 5%). Results PACT led to statistically significant reductions in mutans streptococci (1.08 ± 1.20 log), Lactobacillus spp. (1.69 ± 1.37 log), and total viable bacteria (1.07 ± 1.01 log) compared to the control, which showed log reductions respectively of 0.05 ± 0.49, 0.52 ± 0.89, and 0.47 ± 0.77 for the same microorganisms. Conclusion Dentin from deep carious lesions treated with PACT showed a decrease in cariogenic microbial load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large carnivores, such as brown bears ( Ursus arctos ), are flagship species for the conservation of biodiversity and their reintroduction represents a strong challenge. However, the results of reintroductions have only recently been documented in the literature. Given the global decline of large carnivores, documenting the results of such attempts is crucial for future conservation management. Here we examined the reintroduction of brown bears into the Italian Alps. The majority of bears released (10 individuals) adapted well to the release area and this resulted in the increase of the brown bear population. At the end of 2012, the area with a stable presence of females was around 1250 km 2 (minimum density = 3 bear/100 km 2 ). Between 2002 and 2012, 34 reproductive events occurred and a total of 74 cubs were born, thus reaching a minimum population size of 47 individuals. No less than 21 young males dispersed into adjacent Italian regions or into other countries, such as Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. However, despite a high mortality rate and at least two cases of illegal killing reported in the last 2 years (2013 and 2014), a remarkable population growth rate (current level of 15.6%) has been observed. The damages correlated with bear population size ( F = 17.922, p < 0.01) were primarily inflicted on beehives (39%) and livestock (26%), with an economic relevance of € 41,374 per year for compensation and € 23,527 per year for prevention. The only case of injury to humans ever since the beginning of the project was recorded in 2014, when a female defending her two cubs inflicted minor physical injuries to a man. And yet, public opinion changed radically, from a widespread acceptance of bears at the beginning of the project to an opposition to their presence, the increase of their population, and the new translocations aiming at replacing problem bears that had previously been removed. According to the present trend, the population may reach a range of 60–94 individuals in 2017. Therefore, a proper management of problem bears should be considered a key factor for the restoration and improvement of the social acceptance of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Meningiomas are the most common benign neoplasm of the brain whereas ectopic presentation, although reported, is rare. Among these ectopic tumors, there are a group of purely intraosseous meningiomas, which usually are diagnosed differentially from common primary osseous tumor such as fibrous dysplasia and osteoid osteoma. Case description We report a 62-year-old female with a history of headaches and 6 months of progressive right parietal bulging, with no neurological signs. Parietal craniotomy was performed with immediate titanium cranioplasty of the parietal convexity. Histopathology exams revealed an ectopic intradiploic meningioma without invasion of cortical layers, with positive staining for progesterone receptors and epithelial membrane antigen. Conclusions Ectopic intraosseous meningiomas remain a rare neoplasm with only a few cases reported. The main theories to justify the unusual topography appear to be embryological remains of neuroectodermal tissue or cellular dedifferentiation. Surgical treatment seems the best curative option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat loss and fragmentation have serious consequences for long-term population persistence, thus we investigated the effects of these processes on jaguars ( Panthera onca ) across the species’ distribution range. We employed theoretical simulations of population dynamics, making use of real and hypothetical landscapes to understand how landscape patterning affects the long-term persistence of species, and investigated the isolated and synergistic effects of habitat loss and fragmentation. Jaguar persistence probability was related both to the amount and pattern of landscape subdivision, but with a strong tolerance for habitat loss because the amount of habitat could be between 230 and 5841 km 2 . In contrast, the persistence probability of smaller jaguar populations decreased dramatically in fragmented landscapes, indicating that fragmentation is a greater threat to jaguar long-term viability than habitat loss. Only two of the 28 populations included in our study were deemed viable in the long-term. Given the increase in habitat fragmentation and the current threat status of the jaguar, we discuss the best strategies for their conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We positively resolve Problem 8.2 stated in [A. Pietsch, Traces on operator ideals and related linear forms on sequence ideals (Part I), Indag. Math. (N.S.) (2013) http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.indag.2012.08.008]. The question was whether, in the Hilbert space setting, completeness carries over from quasi-normed shift-monotone sequence ideals to the associated quasi-normed operator ideals. In fact, our technique provides even a solution of Problem 14.1.7 in Pietsch’s book “Operator Ideals” (1978). It turns out that all quasi-normed operator ideals over Banach spaces generated by complete quasi-normed symmetric sequence ideals via arbitrary additive -numbers are complete. So the completeness problem is solved completely. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A spatially-explicit version of the recent multimedia fate model SoilPlus was developed and applied to predict the runoff of three pesticides in a small agricultural watershed in northeastern Italy. In order to evaluate model response to increasing spatial resolution, a tiered simulation approach was adopted, also using a dynamic model for surface water (DynA model), to predict the fate of pesticides in runoff water and sediment, and concentrations in river water. Simulation outputs were compared to water concentrations measured in the basin. Results showed that a high spatial resolution and scenario complexity improved model predictions of metolachlor and terbuthylazine in runoff to an acceptable performance (R 2 = 0.64–0.70). The importance was also shown of a field-based database of properties (i.e. soil texture and organic carbon, rainfall and water flow, pesticides half-life in soil) in reducing the distance between predicted and measured surface water concentrations and its relevance for risk assessment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• This clinical study will contribute to a better understanding of violet LED light effectiveness on dental bleaching, tooth sensitivity and patient satisfaction, with and without the gel. • The results will contribute to a better understanding regarding the impact of different bleaching techniques on patient's quality of life. • The results showed promising results of the hybrid technique, which can be an alternative that promotes the same bleaching outcome with less sensitivity. This clinical study evaluated the effect of bleaching performed with violet LED light (405–410 nm), either combined with hydrogen peroxide (HP) gel, or not, on color change, dental sensitivity, participants' satisfaction and impact on their quality of life. A hundred participants were divided into one of the groups (n = 25): G1 - 35% HP (4 sessions, 1x/week); G2 - violet LED (4 sessions, 1x/week); G3 - violet LED (4 sessions, 2x/week); G4 - hybrid technique (violet LED + 35% HP; 4 sessions, 1x/week). Color evaluation was performed with colorimetric tests (objective and subjective), before, 14 days and 3 months after completion. Additionally, satisfaction with treatment, impact on quality of life (OHIP-14) and dental sensitivity were recorded. The data were submitted to statistical analysis, considering a significance level of 5%, with the exception of the data from the questionnaire on satisfaction (descriptive analysis). Two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests showed that there was no difference between color variation resulting from techniques used in G1 and G4; those used in G2 and G3 did not differ and were less effective for bleaching than those of the other groups, in both subjective and objective evaluations. Regarding tooth sensitivity, subjects in G2 and G3 experienced no sensitivity, ​​while those in G4 showed lower sensitivity values than those in G1. With respect to quality of life, only subjects in G1 and G2 showed a significant positive impact. Among the evaluated techniques, the hybrid type seemed to be a good alternative, showing effective bleaching with less tooth sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a multicenter validation of a modified Manchester Triage System (MTS) flowchart for pediatric patients who present with headache to the emergency department. A prospective observational study was conducted across 5 European pediatric emergency departments. The standard MTS headache flowchart and a modified MTS headache flowchart were tested in the participating centers, and results were compared with triage categories identified by either the physician at the end of the clinical examination or the reference classification matrix (RCM). Fifty-three patients were enrolled in the preimplementation phase and 112 in the postimplementation phase. When compared with physician's triage and RCM, the modified MTS flowchart demonstrated good sensitivity (79% and 70%, respectively), specificity (77% and 76%, respectively), and a high positive likelihood ratio (9.14 and 16.75, respectively) for the identification of low-risk children. Conclusions: Our modified headache flowchart is safe and reliable in pediatric emergency settings, especially for lower classes of urgency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The soybean is one import font of vegetable protein, that contains whole the essential amino acids to the human organism. The enzymatic process is a alternative for the protein extraction and offer advantages. In this work, two commercial proteases, Alcalase and Flavourzyme, are used to extract protein from toasted and not toasted degreased soybean meal. The tests (duplicate) are carried out in 40°C, initial pH of 7,0, enzyme concentration of 1% (protein/protein) and times from 1 up to 24hours. At the end of the hydrolysis the suspension pH is measured and again corrected for 7,0. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rare-earth elements abundance in black shales of the Upper Jurassic (Tithonian Stage)–Lower Cretaceous (Berriassian Stage) Bazhenov Formation is discussed. This formation is the principal oil source rocks of West Siberia. The deposits within the formation can be subdivided into two main marine groups: (a) moderately hemipelagic deposits (clayey-siliceous, including phosphatic and carbonate rocks) and low-density distal clayey turbidites (argillites), both are considered as normal and (b) silty argillites and clayey-silt rocks, which are channel deposits and considered as anomalous. The hemipelagic rocks of normal sections, which are enriched in the rare-earth elements (REE), accumulated under both slow rates of sedimentation (clayey-siliceous rocks) and faster rates of sedimentation (argillites). The channel deposits of anomalous sections, which are impoverished in the REE, accumulated exclusively under fast rates of sedimentation. Within the hemipelagic group the rate of sedimentation of the argillites was faster than of the clayey-siliceous rocks, but the REE concentration in the former rocks (140.4ppm) is higher than in the latter group (97.4ppm). The argillites are more than twice enriched in clayey material than clayey-siliceous rocks. It is likely that the clay fraction was the main carrier of REE in these rocks. In the channel group of rocks, the REE abundance in clayey-silt rocks (21.2ppm) is lower than in the silty argillite (84.6ppm), in which the clay content is elevated. With respect to redox potential the Bazhenov Formation rocks can be subdivided further into three groups, based on the degree of pyritization index (DOP): (1) the highly reducing clayey-siliceous rocks of normal sections, with high DOP; (2) the substantially reducing argillites and carbonate rocks of normal sections, with intermediate DOP; (3) the moderately reducing rocks of anomalous sections with low DOP. The rocks with the high DOP (group 1) are characterized by ΣLREE/Σ(M+H)REE ratios between 7.37 and 7.5, whereas the rocks with the lower DOP (group 2 and 3) are characterized by ΣLREE/Σ(M+H)REE ratios between 12.8 and 13.5. Negative Ce anomalies are either small or absent in all deposits, which is typical for reducing conditions. Thus, the Bazhenov Formation exemplifies the complex depositional conditions that influence the REE concentration in black shale. However, it is this very complexity that has contributed to the development of six separate depositional models (REE contents in ppm are given in brackets). (1) Phosphatic clayey-siliceous rocks of normal sections (367.95); (2) argillites of normal sections (130.73); (3) clayey-siliceous rocks of normal sections (85.97); (4) carbonate rocks, largely dolomites of normal sections (23.23); (5) silty argillites of anomalous sections (78.7) and (6) clayey-silt rocks of anomalous sections (19.66). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Bamboos’ vegetative growth are frequently associated to negative effects on tree recruitment and survival and despite this process, the effects of bamboo dieback after flowering events are poorly understood due the rarity of these events. 2 years after the massive flowering of the woody bamboo Merostachys multiramea in a southern South America subtropical forest, we compared changes in environmental conditions; tree species regeneration and production of new culms in canopy gaps resulted from bamboo dieback and areas of continuous canopy allowed by sparse bamboo cover. We observed sharp differences in environment conditions mainly resulted from differences in canopy openness and a NPMANOVA revealed differences among the stands regeneration directions (species composition and density). Average density, number of culms per sapling and total height of M. multiramea did not differ between stands, although slight differences were detected with increasing values toward opened sites. Canopy gaps resulted from bamboo dieback showed higher species richness and diversity when compared to closed canopy without bamboo. After 2 years, the massive bamboo flowering and dieback resulted differences in several environmental conditions, leading to distinct regeneration directions with higher diversity toward opened areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose: To compare the clinical characteristics of unilateral and bilateral forms of Duane retraction syndrome. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients with Duane syndrome over a 10-year span was performed. All participants underwent a complete medical and ophthalmologic examination at the time of diagnosis. Data collected included the following: sex, age at first visit, form (unilateral/bilateral), side, type, ocular duction and version, abnormal head position, best-corrected visual acuity, refractive errors, presence of strabismus, binocular function, and associated congenital anomalies. Results: Of 94 patients identified, 17% were bilaterally affected. Of the bilateral patients, 12% had familial antecedents; 87.5% had the same type in both eyes with 75% bilateral type 1. Patients with bilateral Duane syndrome had significantly different visual acuity (mean, 0.1214 logMar vs 0.0035; p = 0.045), abnormal head position (56.25% vs 89%; p = 0.04), A or V patterns (69% vs 27.6%; p = 0.003), and associated congenital anomalies (50% vs 14%; p = 0.003) than patients with unilateral disease. There was also a suggestion of higher rates of ametropia, global vertical dysfunction, and abnormal stereoacuity in bilateral Duane syndrome that were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Patients with bilateral Duane syndrome had lower visual acuity, a lower incidence of abnormal head posture, and a higher incidence of A or V patterns and associated congenital anomalies. Bilateral Duane retraction syndrome seems to involve multiple instances of deinnervation and fibrosis, resulting in horizontal and vertical oculomotor deficits and functional impairments.▪ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: The objective of this study was to evaluate the pH and calcium ion release of calcium hydroxide pastes associated with different substances. Methods: Forty acrylic teeth with simulated root canals were divided into 4 groups according to the substance associated to the calcium hydroxide paste: chlorhexidine (CHX) in 2 formulations (1% solution and 2% gel), Casearia sylvestris Sw extract, and propylene glycol (control). The teeth with pastes and sealed coronal accesses were immersed in 10 mL deionized water. After 10 minutes, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 7, 15, and 30 days, the teeth were removed to another container, and the liquid was analyzed. Calcium ion release was measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and pH readings were made with a pH meter. Data were analyzed statistically by analysis of variance and Tukey test (α = 0.05). Results: Calcium analysis revealed significant differences (P < .05) for 1% CHX solution and 2% CHX gel at 10 minutes. After 24 hours, 2% CHX gel × Control and 2% CHX gel × 1% CHX solution differed significantly (P < .05). After 48 hours, there were significant differences (P < .05) for 2% CHX gel × Control and Extract × Control. No differences (P > .05) were observed among groups in the other periods. Regarding the pH, there were significant differences (P < .05) for 2% CHX gel × Control and 2% CHX gel × 1% CHX solution after 48 hours and for 2% CHX gel × Control after 15 days. In the other periods, no differences (P > .05) were observed among groups. Conclusions: All pastes behaved similarly in terms of pH and calcium ion release in the studied periods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Temporary elimination of all host cells for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) combined with dislodging HIV from its extracellular reservoir could cure acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This combination would be effective because the virus is dependent on host cell integration or on the membrane protection of B cells or of follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) for its survival and because the CD4+ host cells are leukocytes that are naturally renewable through hematopoiesis. By treating HIV patients with a combination of humanized antibodies it should be possible to achieve both goals. To deplete HIV host cells, a humanized antibody against CD4 should be fused to an apoptosis-inducing toxin; and to void the extracellular reservoir, a fragment of a humanized antibody against CD21 should be used. Because only CD4+ cells would be destroyed, hematopoietic stem cells would be spared, and would spontaneously replace the depleted cells. We call this hypothetical new HIV treatment “HIV Immunotoxin Therapy (HIT)”. Once the HIV viral load reaches zero, the HIT would be withdrawn and IL-2 or luteinizing hormone releasing hormone analogues (LHRH-A) might be administered to accelerate the natural replacement of the CD4+ TH cells and macrophages. Killing all HIV host cells may seem counterintuitive at first, because it requires the purposeful destruction of the very cells that we ultimately hope to preserve for AIDS patients, but just as controlled back-burning purposefully creates a trap to stop a wildfire from burning out of control, this method could provide a mechanism to extinguish HIV. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The performance of a narrow buffer strip in abating dissolved P, electrical conductivity and herbicides (terbuthylazine, alachlor, nicosulfuron, pendimethalin, linuron) in subsurface water coming from cropland was tested in an experiment carried out on the low plains of the Veneto Region (NE Italy). The experiment lasted from December 1997 to June 1999, monitoring subsurface water quality entering and exiting a buffer composed of a grass strip (5 m wide) and 1 m wide row of trees. Dissolved phosphorus concentrations were reduced by almost 100% passing through the buffer and in most cases exiting water satisfied the limit for avoiding eutrophication. A positive effect was also detected on ECW (reduced by 20%), while pH was not significantly altered. Herbicide concentration abatement varied between 60 and 90%, depending on the chemical and the time elapsed since application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nitrogen deficiency and drought stress are among the major stresses faced by plants with negative consequence on crop production. The use of plant biostimulants is a very promising application in agriculture to improve crop yield, but especially to prevent the effect of abiotic stresses. Algae-derived biostimulants represent an efficient tool to stimulate the root development: while macroalgae have already been widely adopted as a source of biostimulants to improve plants growth and resilience, far less information is available for microalgae. The objective of this work is to investigate the stimulant ability on maize roots of two green algae species, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Chlorella sorokiniana , being respectively the model organism for Chlorophyta and one of the most promising species for microalgae cultivation at industrial scale. The results obtained demonstrate that both C. reinhardtii and C. sorokiniana cells promoted the development of maize root system compared to the untreated negative control. C. sorokiniana specifically increased the number of secondary roots, while improved micro-nutrients accumulation on roots and shoots was measured in the case of C. reinhardtii treated plants. When these microalgae-derived biostimulants were applied on plants grown in stress conditions as nitrogen deficiency, improved development of the root system was measured in the case of plants treated with C. sorokiniana biomass. Microalgae cultivation for biostimulant production can thus be considered as a bio-based process providing solutions for improving plant resilience toward stress conditions. • Biostimulant activity of microalgae was evaluated in maize plants in hydroponics. • C. reinhardtii and C. sorokiniana cells promoted the development of roots system. • Chlorella sorokiniana increased the number of secondary roots. • Chlamydomonas reinhardtii improved micro-nutrients accumulation on roots and shoots. • In nitrogen deficiency C. sorokiniana improved root development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• There was a colorimetric change in the teeth evaluated in the study, regardless of the group analyzed after 180 days of whitening. • Quality of life improved for all patients in all groups. • Only patients treated with hydrogen peroxide within the first 24 h in the first 3 whitening sessions reported postoperative dental sensitivity. • Only in hydrogen peroxide group in 33% of patients in the first 3 whitening sessions was it necessary to take pain medication. • Although the violet LED alone did not cause sensitivity and did improve the patients' quality of life, it was not able to whiten teeth to the same degree (WID) as it was when associated with the CP 35% gel or when compared to the gold standard, HP 35%. When using the CieLAB system, there was improvement for ΔL, Δa and Δb, in hydrogen peroxide group, and for carbamide peroxide + LED only for ΔL and Δb after 180 days of bleaching. Background: Although there is little evidence showing the effectiveness of violet LED on in-office tooth whitening, there are some studies which have reported satisfactory results. This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of a violet light emission diode (LED) (405 nm) system, used in-office, on tooth whitening, sensitivity, use of medication after whitening and quality of life. Methods: Eight patients were randomized into 4 groups (n = 20): G1 - violet LED, G2 - 35% carbamide peroxide (CP) and violet LED, G3 only CP 35% and G4 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP). The color was measured using a spectrophotometer at the following times: baseline, 15 and 180days. The colorimetric changes were analyzed using measurements from the CieLab System ΔE (ΔL, Δa and Δb) and the WID (Whiteness Index for Dentistry) for the 4 groups. Tooth sensitivity was recorded via a visual analog scale (VAS). Additionally, the Psychosocial Impact of Dental. Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) was used to evaluate quality of life. Results: For the analysis of ΔL, G4 and G2 presented more brightness than G1 and G3 (p <0.05), implying that G2 is at least as good as G4 (p >0.05). For measure of Δa, G4 presented better results, standing out from the other groups. (p <0.05). For Δb, both G4 and G2 showed a greater tendency for blue color than groups G1 and G3 (p <0.05). When analyzing ∆E at the 180-day follow up, G4 produced the highest ∆E, while G3 showed the lowest ∆E. The other 2 whitening groups produced intermediate ∆E values. For ∆W, G1 and G3 significantly differed from G2 and G3. When analyzing the 180-day follow up, G2 produced the highest ∆W, while G3 showed the lowest ∆W. The other two whitening treatments produced intermediate ∆W values. As for sensitivity, only G4 patients showed dental sensitivity within 24 h of the bleaching, with pain ceasing after 48 h. For G4, 33% of the patients needed to take analgesics within the first 24 h after the first 3 whitening sessions. For PIDAQ, there was no overall decrease in score over time for any of the groups and there was no difference between them (p >0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that violet LED was not able to whiten teeth at the same intensity, when used alone, as it was when associated with 35% CP, contrary to our initial hypothesis. However, given that pain was not consistently reported in G2, one could suggest that treatment with LED + 35% CP is quite similar to that of 35% HP when used for tooth whitening, but with better pain outcomes. All treatments suggested an improvement in quality of life.Clinical Trial Registry: This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov; the registration number is NCT03192852 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03192852 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral exploitation threatens wildlife by the contamination of soil and water sources, vegetation suppression, and due to changes in landscape configuration. The large and mid-sized forest-dependent mammals need large areas to support their ecological needs, and are frequently impacted by these landscape alterations. Hitherto, there have not been comprehensive reviews of scientific papers reporting on the impacts of the legal mineral exploitation on these animals worldwide. We used the Web of Science and Scopus to select peer-reviewed research articles reporting on those impacts on the large and mid-sized mammals with terrestrial and arboreal habits. Thus, we i) classified the scientific articles according to their methodological approach, ii) examined the main methods of data collection, iii) identified the main impacts recorded, iv) associated the number of studies published by country to the measures of social welfare and economic growth of countries, and v) evaluated the density of mineral resources within the species extent of occurrence, as a proxy to the threat level of mining activities on these species. We found only 39 peer-reviewed articles describing the impacts of mining activities on these animals. These researches mostly quantify the population reduction associated to mining activities, based on line-transect surveys of wildlife. Forest suppression around mining zones is the most frequent threat assessed, and is reported as the main impact on these mammals. We found 153 mammal species to be affected by mining activities, but mining is not mentioned as a threat in the IUCN Red list for 84% (128 spp) of these. Thus, we suggest the inclusion of mining threats in the IUCN assessments of these species, and we urge researchers to intensify the studies of the direct and indirect impacts of mining on large and mid-sized mammals across all ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency (MKD) is an autosomal-recessively inherited disorder of cholesterol biosynthesis with higher prevalence in the Netherlands and other North European countries. MKD is due to mutations in the second enzyme of mevalonate pathway (mevalonate kinase, MK/MVK) which results in reduced enzymatic activity and in the consequent shortage of downstream compounds. In most severe cases the deregulation of mevalonate pathway is associated with a decrease in serum cholesterol. More than 100 pathological mutations have been described in the MVK gene so far, and a founder effect has been hypothesized as responsible for the diffusion of the most frequent disease-associated mutations. In the acute phase of disease, patients affected with MKD present low cholesterol levels comparable to their basal physiologic conditions, already characterized by lower cholesterol levels when compared to healthy individuals. Low cholesterol levels are widely known to correlate with the reduction of cardiovascular events. We hypothesize a selective advantage for heterozygote carriers of the most frequent MVK mutations in those countries where the diet is characterized by high consumption of saturated animal fats rich in cholesterol. This could explain the maintenance in North European population of the main mutations leading to MKD and the distribution world-wide of these mutations that followed the migrations of North European populations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Crohn’s disease (CD) is a multifactorial disease, in which environmental, microbial and genetic factors play important roles. CD is characterized by a chronic granulomatous inflammation by necrotic scarring with aspects of full-thickness wall. In spite of affecting mainly young adults, sometimes, CD can be present in the first year of life (early onset Crohn disease, EOCD) showing an unpredictable course and being often more severe than at older ages. In this paper we propose the hypothesis that EOCD patients should be analyzed using a Mendelian approach with family studies aimed to identify new loci directly involved in the early onset Crohn’s disease. So we will leave the classic association study approach used until now for the identification of genes responsible for susceptibility to CD and propose linkage family analysis as alternative and powerful tool for the identification of new genetic variants associated with familiar cases of EOCD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Postoperative chylothorax represents one of the early and most serious complications after cardiothoracic operations. When conservative measures are not effective, an operation is mandatory. We describe a case of persistent chylothorax after a “one-and-a-half ventricle” repair in an infant with complex congenital heart disease, which was successfully treated with a transabdominal ligation of the cisterna chyli. At the 1-year follow-up, she is in excellent clinical condition, without recurrence of pleural effusion or the requirement for nutritional support. Ligation of cisterna chyli may represent a safe and effective ultimate treatment in children with persistent chylothorax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports that the study aims at comparing the fixation and stability of mandibular condylar fractures using the Neck Screw and an L-shaped plate and to compare to two conventional techniques according to 3dimensional finite element analysis (FEA).

Prison populations have higher levels of bloodborne viruses with consequently higher risks of cross-infection. This study assessed infection prevention and occupational hazards in prison dental surgeries in the Brazilian state of Pará. Investigations were undertaken by a single examiner in 11 prison clinics. Manual washing of instruments with no detergents and dry heat sterilization were the main instrument decontamination methods used. Most surgeries had insufficient instruments for daily clinical work requirements. Half of dentists interviewed worked single-handed with no documented policies or health and safety procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]