Search

Purpose: The present paper addressed the application of the Six Sigma method for process management to reduce the variability and scrap of packages manufactured at a company located in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Methodology/Approach: Exploratory research was conducted to understand the context, analyse, and create familiarity with the problems identified in the company, making them more explicit. Findings: Through Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC) the company was able to identify the main causes of customer complaints and the factors that led to these complaints. Using management tools, it was possible to solve the problems with packaging outside the specifications, which was the reason for complaints from customers. The benefits of this research were the identification and analysis of the quality management tools. Research Limitation/Implication: The present research had as a limitation the application of the method is only one company, so it is proposed as a future study of the application in different production processes of different organizations. Originality/Value of paper: It was evidenced that there is a positive relationship between the application of Quality management methods and company billing, as there was an increase of 1.7% in company billing. In past surveys, new possibilities for improvement to be addressed emerged, making the team aware of the need to continue the process of continuous improvement.

Context: Understanding the musculoskeletal adaptations in the shoulder complex of varying ages of tennis athletes may suggest preventive protocols and conditioning and rehabilitation programs to this population. This study aimed to generate a bilateral descriptive profile of shoulder flexibility, scapular and clavicular position, and muscle strength in pediatric and adult amateur tennis athletes. The outcome measures were compared between groups and sides. The number and percentage of athletes “at risk” according to cutoff values for shoulder range of motion (ROM) were also analyzed. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: 36 pediatric and 28 adult amateur tennis athletes were tested. Outcome measures were ROM of shoulder flexion, abduction, internal and external rotation, posterior capsule tightness, pectoralis minor index (PMI), scapular upward rotation, clavicular elevation, and strength of the external rotators, serratus anterior, and lower trapezius of the dominant/nondominant sides. Results: Pediatric athletes had greater dominant side external rotation (P = .01) and total ROM (P = .04), increased Low Flexion test (P = .01), and decreased PMI (P = .01) compared with the adults. Bilaterally, the pediatric athletes had greater dominant side external rotation ROM (P P = .002) as compared with their nondominant side, whereas the adults displayed lower values on posterior capsule tightness (P = .01) and decreased PMI (P = .02) on their dominant side compared with their nondominant side. For the remaining outcomes, no interaction effects were observed. The cutoff values for shoulder ROM showed that several athletes were “at risk” of shoulder problems. Conclusion: Upper extremity adaptations at the shoulder are present in both pediatric and adult tennis athletes. These data can assist clinicians in better understanding the biomechanical adaptations in the shoulder of amateur tennis athletes in different age groups.

BACKGROUND: Physical therapy is essential to help patients to recover their movements and function following a rotator cuff repair. However, there are uncertainties regarding how long a sling should be used for and when exercises should be started. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the current clinical practice of Brazilian physical therapists treating patients who had a rotator cuff repair. We also explored differences between shoulder specialists and non-specialists. METHODS: An online survey with 38 questions, including a clinical case, regarding the physical therapy clinical practice for patients having a rotator cuff repair. RESULTS: We analyzed 194 responses. Majority of participants were from the Southeast of Brazil (57.5%), had up to 10 years of clinical experience (61.4%) and were not shoulder-specialists (69.8%). Majority of the respondents stated that patients have their first post-operative physical therapy session within the first three weeks (51%). Patients usually use a sling for four to six weeks (60.6%). Passive mobilization is often started in the first-week post-surgery. Fifteen percent of shoulder specialists compared to only six percent of non-shoulder specialists would allow strengthening exercises to start between the first and third weeks post-surgery. CONCLUSION: Physical therapists in Brazil seems to follow similar postoperative programs to other countries. Shoulder specialists allow a faster return to activities and start of strengthening exercises.

Artificial reproduction in dairy cattle is challenged by summer temperatures in tropical environments. We describe a treatment based on mild temperature increases to induce thermotolerance and improve the embryo’s performance under heat stress conditions. A protocol was established to induce upregulation of heat shock protein A (HSPA, formerly known as HSP70) but not impair embryonic development. Thermal treatment (TT) had no effect on morula/blastocyst rate or blastocyst quality (cell number and apoptosis). Heat shock given one day after TT revealed higher (P = 0.00) survival rates in TT blastocysts compared with Control. Treated embryos were transferred to recipients and no detrimental effects were observed regarding pregnancy rates, length, fetal growth or calf weight. Our results demonstrated that the established TT protocol could induce a thermal response by the embryo and is safe for further development.

Background Scapular focused exercise interventions are frequently used to treat individuals with shoulder pain. However, evidence for changes in scapular motion after intervention is limited. Objective To compare the effects of scapular movement training versus standardized exercises for individuals with shoulder pain. Methods This will be a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Sixty-four individuals with shoulder pain for at least 3 months, scapular dyskinesis, and a positive scapular assistance test will be randomly allocated to one of two groups: Scapular Movement Training (group 1) and Standardized Exercises (group 2). Group 1 will receive education about scapular position and movement, and be trained to modify the scapular movement pattern. Group 2 will perform stretching and strengthening exercises. Both groups will be treated twice a week for eight weeks. Three-dimensional scapular kinematics and muscle activity of the serratus anterior and upper, middle, and lower trapezius during elevation and lowering of the arm will be assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. Pain intensity, function, fear avoidance beliefs, and kinesiophobia will be assessed at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, and 4 weeks after the end of treatment. Conclusions The results of this study may contribute to a better understanding of the efficacy of scapular focused treatments for individuals with shoulder pain. Clinical trial registration: NCT03528499

Vitrification is a superior method for cryopreservation of IVF embryos, but due to complicated warming protocols, it is not commonly used for commercial bovine embryos routine. To overcome the need of laboratory embryo preparation during warming, we developed an in-straw warming protocol compatible with most vitrification devices for embryo transfer without sucrose gradient steps and embryo evaluation. Surprisingly, one of the tested protocols improved embryo survival (95.0%* vs 83.1% expansion rate and 74.2%* vs 51.5% hatching rate) compared to conventional in-plate warming. Embryo quality was also increased, taken by the higher total cell numbers (160.7 ± 8.6* vs 99.0 ± 7.9) and lower apoptosis index (4.9 ± 0.6* vs 11.5 ± 2.4) 48 h after warming. Pregnancy rates were similar between vitrified-warmed embryos and fresh embryos (40% vs 43%). Based on our results, we suggest in-straw warming should always be used for vitrified embryos due to beneficial effects. Direct transfer can be safely performed using this protocol.

Climate change is predicted to drive various changes in hydrology that can translate into risks for river ecosystems and for those who manage rivers, such as for hydropower. Here we use the WWF Water Risk Filter (WRF) and geospatial analysis to screen hydropower projects, both existing (2488 dams) and projected (3700 dams), for a variety of risks at a global scale, focusing on biodiversity risks, hydrological risks (water scarcity and flooding), and how those hydrological risks may shift with climate change, based on three scenarios. Approximately 26% of existing hydropower dams and 23% of projected dams are within river basins that currently have medium to very high risk of water scarcity; 32% and 20% of the existing and projected dams, respectively, are projected to have increased risk by 2050 due to climate change. For flood risk, 75% of existing dams and 83% of projected dams are within river basins with medium to very high risk, and the proportion of hydropower dams in basins with the highest levels of flood risk is projected to increase by nearly twenty times (e.g., from 2% to 36% of dams). In addition, a large proportion of existing (76%) and projected hydropower dams (93%) are located in river basins with high or very high freshwater biodiversity importance. This is a high-level screening, intended to elucidate broad patterns of risk to increase awareness, highlight trends, and guide more detailed studies.

Background Posterior capsule tightness (PCT) and shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) symptoms are both associated with altered shoulder biomechanics and impairments. However, their combined effect on kinematics, pain, range of motion (ROM), strength, and function remain unknown. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine if the combination of PCT and SIS affects scapular and humeral kinematics, glenohumeral joint ROM, glenohumeral joint external rotation strength, pain, and function differently than does either factor (PCT or SIS) alone. Design The design was a cross-sectional group comparison. Methods Participants were placed into 1 of 4 groups based on the presence or absence of SIS and PCT: control group (n = 28), PCT group (n = 27), SIS group (n = 25), and SIS + PCT group (n = 25). Scapular kinematics and humeral translations were quantified with an electromagnetic motion capture system. Shoulder internal rotation and external rotation ROM, external rotation strength, and pain and Shoulder Pain and Disabilities Index scores were compared between groups with ANOVA. Results The SIS group had greater scapular internal rotation (mean difference = 5.13°; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.53°–8.9°) and less humeral anterior translation (1.71 mm; 95% CI = 0.53–2.9 mm) than the other groups. Groups without PCT had greater internal rotation ROM (16.05°; 95% CI = 5.09°–28.28°). The SIS + PCT group had lower pain thresholds at the levator scapulae muscle (108.02 kPa; 95% CI = 30.15–185.88 kPa) and the highest Shoulder Pain and Disabilities Index score (∼ 44.52; 95% CI = 33.41–55.63). Limitations These results may be limited to individuals with impingement symptoms and cannot be generalized to other shoulder conditions. Conclusions Decreased ROM and lower pain thresholds were found in individuals with both impingement symptoms and PCT. However, the combination of factors did not influence scapular and humeral kinematics.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:03:30Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-03-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Acrylic resin employed in dental materials can act as substrate for microorganisms’ adhesion and biofilm formation. To overcome this, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were combined with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) to reduce denture stomatitis caused by Candida glabrata. Although AgNPs antimicrobial activity is already known, the physicochemical properties of its nanocomposites, which dictate the performance of these commercial targets remain little explored. We evaluated the effect of different amount of AgNPs in PMMA obtained by the thermal polymerization. Among the mechanical tests employed, PMMA flexural strength decreased with higher AgNPs concentration. The microbiological adhesion test against Candida glabrata revealed the nanocomposite with 0.05% of AgNPs has greater capacity to inhibit the biofilm formed on its surface. Although we observed distinct thermo-mechanical behavior in the presence of AgNPs, antimicrobial property was not linearly dependent of nanoparticles concentration and was influenced by nanoparticles dispersion and distribution in the polymer matrix. Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) Department of Chemistry Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Electrochemistry and Ceramics (LIEC), Rod. Washington Luis, Km 235 State University of São Paulo (UNESP) Araçatuba Dental School Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health, Rua José Bonifácio 1193 Federal Institute of Education Science and Technology of Goias – Campus Uruaçu (IFG), Rua Formosa, Qd 28 e 29, Loteamento Santana Graduate Program in Dentistry (GPD) – Master's Degree University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Rua José Bongiovani 700 State University of São Paulo (UNESP) Araçatuba Dental School Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health, Rua José Bonifácio 1193 FAPESP: 2012/07067-0 FAPESP: 2012/17880-0 FAPESP: 2015/13958-3

Silver materials are known to present excellent properties, such as high electrical and thermal conductivity as well as chemical stability. Silver-based inks have drawn a lot of attention for being compatible with various substrates, which can be used in the production uniform and stable pseudo-reference electrodes with low curing temperatures. Furthermore, the interest in the use of disposable electrodes has been increasing due to the low cost and the possibility of their use in point-of-care and point-of-need situations. Thus, in this work, two new inks were developed using Ag as conductive material and colorless polymers (nail polish (NP) and shellac (SL)), and applied to different substrates (screen-printed electrodes, acetate sheets, and 3D-printed electrodes) to verify the performance of the proposed inks. Measurements attained with open circuit potential (OCP) attested to the stability of the potential of the pseudo-reference proposed for 1 h. Analytical curves for β-estradiol were also obtained using the devices prepared with the proposed inks as pseudo-references electrodes, which presented satisfactory results concerning the potential stability (RSD < 2.6%). These inks are simple to prepare and present great alternatives for the development of pseudo-reference electrodes useful in the construction of disposable electrochemical systems.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:05:48Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-02-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) This study synthesized and characterized a chlorhexidine (CHX)-carrier nanosystem based on iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IONPs) and chitosan (CS), and evaluated its antimicrobial effect on mono- and dual-species biofilms of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans. CHX was directly solubilized in CS-coated IONPs and maintained under magnetic stirring for obtaining the IONPs-CS-CHX nanosystem. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for planktonic cells was performed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the nanosystem and controls. The effects of the IONPs-CS-CHX nanosystem on the formation of mono- and dual-species biofilms, as well as on pre-formed biofilms were assessed by quantification of total biomass, metabolic activity and colony-forming units. Data were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis’ test or one-way analysis of variance, followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls’ or Holm-Sidak's tests (α = 0.05), respectively. Physico-chemical results confirmed the formation of a nanosystem with a size smaller than 40 nm. The IONPs-CS-CHX nanosystem and free CHX showed similar MIC values for both species analyzed. In general, biofilm quantification assays revealed that the CHX nanosystem at 78 μg/mL promoted similar or superior antibiofilm effects compared to its counterpart at 39 μg/mL and free CHX at 78 μg/mL. These findings highlight the potential of CS-coated IONPs as preventive or therapeutic agents carrying CHX to fight biofilm-associated oral diseases. São Paulo State University (Unesp) School of Dentistry Araçatuba Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health Federal University of São Carlos Department of Chemistry nChemi Engenharia de Materiais Graduate Program in Dentistry (GPD - Master's Degree) University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE) São Paulo State University (Unesp) School of Dentistry Araçatuba Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health CNPq: 404721/2016-8

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T15:58:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-12-01 Objective: To evaluate the effect of a fluoride toothpaste containing nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate (TMPnano) on enamel demineralization in situ and composition of the biofilm. Design: This crossover double-blind study consisted of four phases (seven days each) and 12 volunteers who wore oral appliances containing four enamel bovine blocks. The cariogenic challenge was performed by 30% sucrose solution (6x/day). The toothpaste treatments (3x/day) were as follows: no F/TMP/TMPnano (Placebo), 1100 ppm F (1100F), 1100F plus 3% micrometric or nano-sized TMP (1100F/TMP; 1100F/TMPnano). Percentage of surface hardness loss (%SH), and integrated loss of subsurface hardness (ΔKHN), as well as enamel calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and fluoride (F) were determined. Moreover, biofilm formed on the blocks were analyzed for F, Ca, P, and insoluble extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) concentrations. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, repeated measures followed by Fisher LSD test (p < 0.001). Results: 1100F/TMPnano promoted the lowest %SH and ΔKHN among all groups (p < 0.001). Regarding the F concentrations in the enamel and in the biofilm, there were no significant differences between 1100 F and 1100 F/TMPnano, but significantly increased enamel Ca concentrations (p < 0.001). 1100F/TMPnano showed lower values of EPS concentration when compared with 1100F (∼80%) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: 1100F/TMPnano promoted a greater protective effect against enamel demineralization and significantly affected the composition of biofilm formed in situ when compared to 1100F toothpaste. São Paulo State University (Unesp) School of Dentistry Araçatuba Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health, Rua José Bonifácio 1193 LIEC-Department of Chemistry Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) São Paulo State University (Unesp) School of Dentistry Araçatuba Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health, Rua José Bonifácio 1193

This study compared core stability, shoulder isokinetic peak torque and shoulder function in throwers with and without shoulder pain.Cross-sectional study.Throwing athletes.Thirty healthy athletes and 21 with shoulder pain were included.Endurance time of the trunk, the modified star excursion balance test, isokinetic peak torque of internal and external rotation of the shoulder, questionnaires, level of satisfaction with the throwing arm and active range of motion.The symptomatic athletes presented with shorter endurance time for the trunk lateral flexors (P .05), and decreased reach distance for both limbs in the posteromedial direction (P .05) and for takeoff limb in the posterolateral direction (P = .04), and smaller composite score for both limbs (P .05) during star excursion balance test as compared to the healthy ones. No significant differences between groups were found for peak torque of internal and external rotation of the shoulder. Athletes with shoulder pain demonstrated more shoulder disability and a lower level of satisfaction with the throwing arm (P = .000). Range of motion was not different between groups for shoulder internal and external rotation.Throwing athletes with shoulder pain have lower core stability and shoulder function compared to healthy athletes.

Upcoming generation of smart windows requires simple design, fast stimulus response and cost-effective production. Aiming these features, we reported a new approach of switchable devices based on the thermosensitive polymer poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) and facile assembly of the components (FTO layers and polymer). Its optical/color change from transparent to opaque is temperature-dependent and activated by induced Joule heating of conductive substrates. Therefore, the reported devices showed fast reversible response (less than 60 s) by small input power and adjustable opaqueness according to polymer concentration. In opposite to traditional electrochromic smart windows dependence of the kinetics charge-transfer reaction, the observed features are triggered by the thermodynamic mechanism of the reversible coil-globule transition from PNVCL suspension, which can lead to stable performance of the proposed device.

Glutamine (Gln) is the most concentrated amino acid in blood and considered conditionally essential. Its requirement is increased during physiological stress, such as malnutrition or illness, despite its production by muscle and other organs. In the malnourished state, Gln has been suggested to have a trophic effect on the exocrine pancreas and small intestine. However, the Gln transport capacity, the functional relationship of these two organs, and the potential role of the Gln-glutamate (Glu) cycle are unknown. We observed that pancreatic acinar cells express lower levels of Glu than Gln transporters. Consistent with this expression pattern, the rate of Glu influx into acinar cells was approximately sixfold lower than that of Gln. During protein restriction, acinar cell glutaminase expression was increased and Gln accumulation was maintained. Moreover, Glu secretion by acinar cells into pancreatic juice and thus into the lumen of the small intestine was maintained. In the intestinal lumen, Glu absorption was preserved and Glu dehydrogenase expression was augmented, potentially providing the substrates for increasing energy production via the TCA cycle. Our findings suggest that one mechanism by which Gln exerts a positive effect on exocrine pancreas and small intestine involves the Gln metabolism in acinar cells and the secretion of Glu into the small intestine lumen. The exocrine pancreas acinar cells not only avidly accumulate Gln but metabolize Gln to generate energy and to synthesize Glu for secretion in the pancreatic juice. Secreted Glu is suggested to play an important role during malnourishment in sustaining small intestinal homeostasis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Glutamine (Gln) has been suggested to have a trophic effect on exocrine pancreas and small intestine in malnourished states, but the mechanism is unknown. In this study, we suggest that this trophic effect derives from an interorgan relationship between exocrine pancreas and small intestine for Gln-glutamate (Glu) utilization involving the uptake and metabolism of Gln in acinar cells and secretion of Glu into the lumen of the small intestine.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:18:06Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-02-20 Objectives: This in vitro study evaluated the effect of microparticles (TMPmicro) or nanoparticles (TMPnano) TMP associated with fluoride (F) in toothpaste formulations on the obliteration of dentinal tubules (DT). Materials and methods: The dentinal tubules of bovine dentin blocks were unobstructed by immersion in 37% phosphoric acid solution. Blocks (n = 20/group) underwent mechanical brushing (2×/day) during 7 days with toothpastes: placebo, 1100 ppm F, and 1100 with 3% TMPmicro or 3% TMPnano. After that, ten blocks of each group were immersed in citric acid (pH 3.2) for 1 min. The number, diameter and area of unobstructed DT, atomic % of chemical elements from precipitates, and the mineral concentration were quantified. Data were submitted to two-way ANOVA, followed by Student-Newman-Keuls test (P < 0.05). Results: Toothpastes containing TMPmicro and TMPnano promoted greater obliteration of DT and greater mineral concentration compared to other groups (P < 0.05). Placebo and 1100 ppm F group presented similar obliteration but 1100 ppm F group promoted higher mineral concentration. Higher Ca/P ratios were observed in groups treated with TMP; the acid challenge reduced Ca/P ratio for all groups. The atomic % of C and N was significantly lower for TMP toothpastes before acid challenge, but increased afterwards. Conclusions: It was concluded that the addition of TMPmicro or TMPnano to F toothpastes produced greater obliteration of dentinal tubules and higher mineral concentration when compared with 1100 ppm F. Clinical relevance: By the addition of TMP, fluoride toothpastes may occlude the dentinal tubules, with potential to reduce dentin hypersensitivity. Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health School of Dentistry Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Physics and Chemistry São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Chemistry Federal University of São Carlos – UFSCAR Department of Surgery and Integrated Clinic School of Dentistry Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) Disciplina de Clínica Integrada Faculdade de Odontologia do Campus de Araçatuba, Rua José Bonifácio 1193, CEP Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health School of Dentistry Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Physics and Chemistry São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Surgery and Integrated Clinic School of Dentistry Araçatuba São Paulo State University (UNESP)

Mechanical hyperalgesia defined as decreased pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) is commonly associated with pain. In this narrative review, we report the current state of the art within topographical pressure sensitivity maps. Such maps are based on multiple PPT assessments. The PPTs are assessed by an a priori defined grid with special focus on both spatial and temporal summation issues. The grid covers the muscle or the body region of interest using absolute or relative values determined from anatomical landmarks or anthropometric values. The collected PPTs are interpolated by Shepard or Franke and Nielson interpolation methods to create topographical pressure sensitivity maps. This new imaging technique has proven to be valuable in various disciplines including exercise physiology, neurology, physical therapy, occupational medicine, oncology, orthopedics, and sport sciences. The reviewed papers have targeted different body regions like the scalp, low back, neck-shoulder, and upper and lower extremities. The maps have delineated spatial heterogeneity in the pressure pain sensitivity underlining the different extents of pressure pain hyperalgesia in both experimentally induced and disease-associated pain conditions. Furthermore, various intervention studies have proven the utility of topographical pressure pain sensitivity maps. Topographical pressure pain sensitivity maps have contributed to revealing the efficacy of therapeutic, ergonomic, or training interventions that aim at reducing pain.

Proper diagnosis is a first step in applying best available treatments, and prognosticating outcomes for clients. Currently, the majority of musculoskeletal diagnoses are classified according to pathoanatomy. However, the majority of physical therapy treatments are applied toward movement system impairments or pain. While advocated within the physical therapy profession for over thirty years, diagnostic classification within a movement system framework has not been uniformly developed or adopted. We propose a basic framework and rationale for application of a movement system diagnostic classification for atraumatic shoulder pain conditions, as a case for the broader development of movement system diagnostic labels. Shifting our diagnostic paradigm has potential to enhance communication, improve educational efficiency, facilitate research, directly link to function, improve clinical care, and accelerate preventive interventions.

Although hydrotherapy is widely used to treat women with fibromyalgia, no studies have investigated the effects of this intervention on scapular kinematics in this population. This study verified the effectiveness of a hydrotherapy program on scapular kinematics, pain and quality of life in women with fibromyalgia.Twenty women completed the study and performed three evaluations before treatment (to establish a baseline), and two other evaluations (after 8 and 16weeks of hydrotherapy) at the end of treatment. Three-dimensional kinematics of the scapula was evaluated during arm elevation in two different planes with the Flock of Birds® system. Patients also answered quality of life and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaires and had pain assessed with a digital algometer. Treatment consisted of 2 weekly hydrotherapy sessions, lasting 45min each, for 16weeks. Data were analyzed with a two-way ANOVA (for kinematics results) and one-way ANOVA (for the other variables). Effect size was assessed with Cohen's d coefficient for all quantitative variables.Although an important improvement was achieved in terms of pain and quality of life (P0.05, effect sizes varied from -1.93 to 1.61 depending on the variable), scapular kinematics did not change after treatment (P0.05, effect sizes from -0.40 to 0.46 for all kinematic variables).The proposed program of hydrotherapy was effective to improve quality of life, pain intensity and fibromyalgia impact in women with fibromyalgia. However, scapular kinematics did not change after the period of treatment. Although symptoms improved after the treatment, the lack of changes in scapular kinematics may indicate these women have an adaptive movement pattern due to their chronic painful condition.

Injectable hydrogels have gained prominence in the field of tissue engineering for minimally invasive delivery of cells for tissue repair and in the filling of irregular defects. However, many injectable hydrogels exhibit long gelation times or are not stable for long periods after injection. To address these concerns, we used thermosensitive poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) hydrogels due to their cytocompatibility and fast response to temperature stimuli. Changes in the PNVCL molecular weight and concentration enabled the development of hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties and fast gelation times (

Objective To investigate the short-term effects of thoracic spine manipulation (TSM) on pain, function, scapular kinematics, and scapular muscle activity in individuals with shoulder impingement syndrome. Design Randomized controlled trial with blinded assessor and patient. Setting Laboratory. Participants Patients with shoulder impingement syndrome (N=61). Interventions Participants were randomly allocated to TSM group (n=30) or sham-TSM group (n=31) and attended 2 intervention sessions over a 1-week period. Main Outcome Measures Scapular kinematics and muscle activity were measured at day 1 (baseline, before the first intervention), day 2 preintervention (before second intervention), day 2 postintervention (after the second intervention), and day 3 (follow-up). Shoulder pain and function were assessed by the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index at baseline, day 2 preintervention, and follow-up. An assessor blinded to group assignment measured all outcomes. Results Pain decreased by 0.7 points (95% confidence interval, 1.3–0.1 points) at day 2 preintervention and 0.9 points (95% confidence interval, 1.5–0.3 points) at day 2 postintervention in the TSM group. The Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire ( P =.01) and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index ( P =.02) scores improved in both groups. Scapular upward rotation increased during arm lowering ( P P Conclusions TSM may increase scapular upward rotation during arm lowering. TSM does not seem to influence activity of the scapular muscles. The results concerning shoulder pain, function, scapular tilt, and internal rotation are not conclusive.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:31:18Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-03-01 Oocyte cryopreservation is a strategic tool for assisted reproduction, but has limited use due to the complex cellular structure of oocytes, which leads to sub-optimal survival rates. In this study, we used the SPOM in vitro maturation system, which is based on supplementation of cAMP modulators in order to extend meiotic arrest and improve oocyte maturation. cAMP modulators (Forskolin and IBMX) were administered in a short term culture (STC) before or after vitrification, followed by an extended maturation with cilostamide. We hypothesized that a STC with cAMP modulators would improve immature oocyte health and enhance cryotolerance. We found vitrification caused oocyte damage in a great extent, impairing nuclear maturation rates in all vitrified groups (Percentage of matured oocytes: CONT FRESH 77.8c; CONT VIT 31.4ab; STC/VIT 39.5b; VIT/STC 18.6a). Vitrification also promoted degradation of cytoskeletal actin filaments (Percentage of Injured oocytes: CONT FRESH 0.0a; CONT VIT 50.0b; STC/VIT 39.7b; VIT/STC 74.0c), and increased calcium release (Calcein-AM mean±SD: IMMATURE 1.0±0.49; VIT 1.76±1.13; STC 1.38±0.95; STC/VIT 1.58±0.99). However, STC seemed to attenuate negative effects of vitrification, since oocytes subjected to STC prior to vitrification presented predominance of polymerized actin filaments (Percentage of Intact oocytes). Unfortunately, embryo cleavage rate (SPOM 73.66a; STC/VIT 7.91b; VIT/STC 4.62b) and blastocyst development rate (SPOM 25.14a; STC/VIT 1.34b; VIT/STC 0.00b) was impaired in vitrified groups, regardless STC treatment. In conclusion, STC with cAMP modulators, Forskolin and IBMX, decreases cytoskeleton actin filaments injuries caused by oocyte vitrification, which may consequently increase oocyte viability. Our results suggest STC should be considered and improved for immature oocyte vitrification systems. Federal Fluminense University (UFF) Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64 Agricultural Research Company of the Rio de Janeiro State (PESAGRO RIO), São Boa Ventura Av., 770, 24120-19 Fonseca São Paulo State University (UNESP), Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane Rd., S / n, 14884-900 Embrapa Dairy Cattle Laboratory of Animal Reproduction Santa Monica Experimental Field (LRA-CESM), Santa Monica Rd São Paulo State University (UNESP), Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane Rd., S / n, 14884-900

Objective:The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of early rehabilitation on arm range of motion (ROM), strength and function after breast cancer surgery (BCS). Data sources: PubMed, MEDLINE, Bireme, Embase, LILACS and CINAHL databases were searched.Methods:Two independent reviewers selected randomized controlled trials evaluating women who underwent early rehabilitation to restore arm ROM, strength or function after BCS. Cochrane Collaboration recommendations and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Methodological quality was assessed by the PEDro scale. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health was considered to analyze results. Effect size (ES) was calculated for clinical relevance interpretation of the outcomes of interest, and the evidence was summarized through the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system.Results:Up to June 2019, a total of 1658 references were identified and 15 studies were included. Twelve of them presented adequate methodological quality. A total of 1710 patients were evaluated. Few studies performed the simultaneous assessment of variables related to body structure and function and patient-reported outcomes. A moderate level of evidence was synthesized regarding the effectiveness of ROM exercises for improving arm flexion, abduction and external rotation (ES: 0.45–2.5). A low level of evidence was synthesized regarding the effectiveness of isolated strengthening exercises for patient-reported arm function. ROM exercises associated with muscle strengthening exhibited a moderate level of evidence for improving shoulder flexion (ES: 1.4–2.4).Conclusion:Both ROM and strengthening exercises associated with ROM exercises improved shoulder flexion, abduction and external rotation ROM after BCS. Shoulder abduction and external rotation showed less recovery, irrespective of the intervention applied.

Cataract, the loss of ocular lens transparency, accounts for ∼50% of worldwide blindness and has been associated with water and solute transport dysfunction across lens cellular barriers. We show that neutral amino acid antiporter LAT2 (Slc7a8) and uniporter TAT1 (Slc16a10) are expressed on mouse ciliary epithelium and LAT2 also in lens epithelium. Correspondingly, deletion of LAT2 induced a dramatic decrease in lens essential amino acid levels that was modulated by TAT1 defect. Interestingly, the absence of LAT2 led to increased incidence of cataract in mice, in particular in older females, and a synergistic effect was observed with simultaneous lack of TAT1. Screening SLC7A8 in patients diagnosed with congenital or age-related cataract yielded one homozygous single nucleotide deletion segregating in a family with congenital cataract. Expressed in HeLa cells, this LAT2 mutation did not support amino acid uptake. Heterozygous LAT2 variants were also found in patients with cataract some of which showed a reduced transport function when expressed in HeLa cells. Whether heterozygous LAT2 variants may contribute to the pathology of cataract needs to be further investigated. Overall, our results suggest that defects of amino acid transporter LAT2 are implicated in cataract formation, a situation that may be aggravated by TAT1 defects.

Study Design Parallel-group intervention with repeated measures. Introduction Shortening of the pectoralis minor (PM) may contribute to alterations in scapular kinematics. Purpose of the Study To evaluate the effects of a stretching protocol on function, muscle length, and scapular kinematics in subjects with and without shoulder pain. Methods A sample of 25 patients with shoulder pain and 25 healthy subjects with PM tightness performed a daily stretching protocol for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire, PM length, and scapular kinematics. Results Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores decreased ( P P > .05) were found for PM length in both groups. Scapular anterior tilt increased ( P Discussion This study demonstrated that a daily home stretching protocol significantly decreases pain and improves function in subjects with shoulder pain. The mechanism responsible for these improvements does not appear directly related to PM muscle length or scapula kinematics, suggesting that other neuromuscular mechanisms are involved. Conclusion The PM stretching protocol did not change the PM length or scapular kinematics in subjects with or without shoulder pain. However, pain and function of the upper limbs improved in patients with shoulder pain. Level of Evidence 2b.

Bismuth titanate with sillenite structure (Bi 12 TiO 20 ) was prepared at lower temperatures and shorter times using a modified oxidant peroxide method (OPM). Bi 12 TiO 20 was synthesized utilizing commercial Bi 2 O 3 and reactive titanium dioxide nanoparticles having peroxo-modified surfaces. Rather than depending on particle size, the reaction mechanism is related to the highly exothermic decomposition of peroxo groups, regardless the titanium source used, which locally releases a large amount of energy that can accelerate the reaction, similar to self-propagating high temperature routes (SHS).

Self-assembly of nanoparticles on living biotemplate surfaces is a promising route to fabricate nano- or microstructured materials with high efficiency and efficacy. We used filamentous fungi to fabricate microtubules of gold nanoparticles through a novel approach that consists of isolating the hyphal growth from the nanoparticle media. This improved methodology resulted in better morphological control and faster adsorption kinetics, which reduced the time needed to form homogeneous microtubules and allowed for control of microtubule thickness through successive additions of nanoparticles. Differences in the adsorption rates due to modifications in the chemical identity of colloidal gold nanoparticles indicated the influence of secondary metabolites and growth media in the fungi metabolism, which demonstrated the need to choose not only the fungus biotemplate but also the correct medium to obtain microtubules with superior properties.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T16:40:39Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2016-06-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Introduction: Silver nanoparticles have been used for different purposes in dentistry, including endodontic treatments. The aim of this study was to determine the cytotoxicity of different types of silver nanoparticles on mouse fibroblast cell line L929 and the reaction of subcutaneous connective tissue of Wistar rats to these nanoparticles. Methods: Silver nanoparticles of an average size of 5 nm were synthesized with ammonia (SNA) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (SNP). L929 was exposed to SNA and SNP (0.1-100 mu g/mL), and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed after 6, 24, and 48 hours. Culture medium was used as the control. Sixteen rats received, individually, 3 polyethylene tubes filled with a fibrin sponge embedded in 100 mu L SNA or SNP (1 mu g/mL). A fibrin sponge with no embedding was the control. Tissue reaction was performed qualitatively and quantitatively after 7, 15, 30, and 90 days of implantation in the dorsal connective tissue of Wistar rats. Results: SNA and SNP were cytotoxic to L929 in higher concentrations, with SNA significantly more toxic than SNP. SNA and SNP did not induce significant interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-6 production. The release of stern cell factor by L929 increased 48 hours after the treatment with SNP at 5 mu g/rnL. Histologic examination showed that the inflammatory responses caused by SNA and SNP at 1 mu g/mL were similar to the control in all experimental periods. Conclusions: It was concluded that SNA and SNP were not cytotoxic at 25 mu g/mL or lower concentrations. However, for safe clinical use, further studies establishing others points of its toxicologic profile are recommended. Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Pediat Dent & Publ Hlth Dent, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Pathol & Clin Propedeut, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Basic Sci, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Endodont, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Dent Mat & Prosthodont, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Dept Chem, Interdisciplinary Lab Electrochem & Ceram, BR-13560 Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Pediat Dent & Publ Hlth Dent, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Pathol & Clin Propedeut, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Basic Sci, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Endodont, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Aracatuba Dent Sch, Dept Dent Mat & Prosthodont, Aracatuba, SP, Brazil FAPESP: 2013/07296-2 FAPESP: 2010/05788-7

Objectives To assess the influence of posterior capsule tightness and humeral retroversion on shoulder motion measurements. Design Cross-Sectional study. Setting Controlled university laboratory. Participants 75 asymptomatic individuals were assigned to one of 4 groups: control (n = 28); posterior capsule tightness only (n = 17); humeral retroversion only (n = 15); and combined posterior capsule tightness and retroversion (n = 15). Main outcome measures Six clinical measurements were compared across groups: bicipital forearm angle, low flexion, glenohumeral internal and external rotation, horizontal adduction and extension with internal rotation. Results The group with both adaptations had decreased internal rotation compared to the control and retroversion only groups, as well as increased external rotation compared to the control and posterior capsule only groups. There were no between group differences for the horizontal adduction or extension with internal rotation measurements. The retroversion only and combined groups showed decreased bicipital forearm angle compared with the control and posterior tightness groups. The posterior capsule tightness and combined groups demonstrated decreased low flexion compared to the other groups. Conclusion The combination of osseous and soft tissue adaptions alter shoulder motion measures more than a single adaption, making a comprehensive clinical assessment vital when managing individuals with shoulder pain.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T16:54:17Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-07-01 The phytosynthesis of metal nanoparticles is nowadays attracting the increased attention of researchers and is much needed given the worldwide matter related to environmental contamination. The antimicrobial activity of colloidal and spray formulation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized by pomegranate peel extract against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, and their cytotoxicity in mammalian cells were tested in the present study. Dry matter, pH, total phenolics, and ellagic acid in the extract were determined. Then, AgNPs were phytosynthesized and characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron transmission microscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, and Ag+ dosage. Spray formulations and respective chemical-AgNP controls were prepared and tested. The peel extract reduced more than 99% of Ag+, and produced nanoparticles with irregular forms and an 89-nm mean size. All AgNP presented antimicrobial activity, and the spray formulation of green-AgNP increased by 255 and 4 times the effectiveness against S. aureus and C. albicans, respectively. The cytotoxicity of colloidal and spray green-AgNP was expressively lower than the respective chemical controls. Pomegranate peel extract produced stable AgNP with antimicrobial action and low cytotoxicity, stimulating its use in the biomedical field. Department of Dentistry University Center of Adamantina (UNIFAI) Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics São Paulo State University (UNESP) School of Dentistry Laboratory of Research Development & Innovation Apis Flora Industrial e Comercial Ltda Department of Chemistry Federal University of São Carlos FACET-Department of Chemistry Federal University of Grande Dourados Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics São Paulo State University (UNESP) School of Dentistry

Randomized controlled trial.To evaluate the effects of an exercise protocol, with and without manual therapy, on scapular kinematics, function, pain, and mechanical sensitivity in individuals with shoulder impingement syndrome.Stretching and strengthening exercises have been shown to effectively decrease pain and disability in individuals with shoulder impingement syndrome. There is still conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of adding manual therapy to an exercise therapy regimen.Forty-six patients were assigned to 1 of 2 groups, one of which received a 4-week intervention of stretching and strengthening exercises (exercise alone) and the other the same intervention, supplemented by manual therapy targeting the shoulder and cervical spine (exercise plus manual therapy). All outcomes were measured preintervention and postintervention at 4 weeks. Outcome measures were scapular kinematics in the scapular and sagittal planes during arm elevation, function as determined through the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, pain as assessed with a visual analog scale, and mechanical sensitivity as assessed with pressure pain threshold.Independent of the intervention group, small, clinically irrelevant changes in scapular kinematics were observed postintervention. A significant group-by-time interaction effect (P = .001) was found for scapular anterior tilt during elevation in the sagittal plane, with a 3.0° increase (95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.5°, 7.5°) relative to baseline in the exercise-plus-manual therapy group compared to a decrease of 0.3° (95% CI: -4.2°, 4.8°) in the exercise-alone group. Pain, mechanical sensitivity, and the DASH score improved similarly for both groups by the end of the intervention period.Adding manual therapy to an exercise protocol did not enhance improvements in scapular kinematics, function, and pain in individuals with shoulder impingement syndrome. The noted improvements in pain and function are not likely explained by changes in scapular kinematics.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:25:36Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2015-11-01 Pure (Bi12TiO20) and La- and Pb-doped (Bi12-xLaxTiO20 e Bi12-xPbxTiO20, with x up to 1.50) bismuth titanates were prepared by the oxidant peroxide method (OPM) and used for photodegradation of rhodamine b (RhB). The synthesized materials samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), X-ray photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and N2 physical adsorption. Rietveld refinements showed samples consisting mainly of sillenite structure with small amounts of a perovskite secondary phase in the La- and Pb-doped materials. The photocatalytic properties of all materials were evaluated by the discoloration of RhB solution under ultraviolet (UV) and visible irradiation, where the bismuth titanate obtained by the OPM route showed higher photocatalytic activity than the commercial TiO2. Furthermore, it was observed that the insertion of different ions in the bismuth titanate structure changes the band gap energy in different ways, which consequently altered the photocatalytic activities of the materials. LIEC-Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Eletroquímica e Cerâmica, Departamento de Química, UFSCar-Universidade Federal de São Carlos, CP 676 São, Rod. Washington Luis km 235 Instituto de Química de Araraquara, UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista, CP 355 Araraquara, Rua Francisco Degni, SP Instituto de Química de Araraquara, UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista, CP 355 Araraquara, Rua Francisco Degni, SP

Many manufacturers wish to relate the physical properties of their products to customers' affective responses so that they can improve the design of their products. Rasch measurement theory is a novel approach in this context that could offer business benefits over other approaches. The aim of the research was to determine whether Rasch measurement theory can support the construction of a scale to measure the affective impression of a moisturiser cream elicited by the compliance of the moisturiser's packaging. The compliances of packaging used to develop a scale for the impression of the contents of the packaging in previous research were measured. New packaging prototypes were manufactured with a range of compliances to determine whether affective responses to them could be predicted. A new sample of 67 participants rated the prototypes against Likert statements on a five-point scale. The statements were derived from descriptions of the users' product experience. The scale was recalibrated using a multi-facet Rasch model. It was found that the affective responses to the prototypes fell within the range predicted by the original scale. The results demonstrate that Rasch measurement theory can be used to achieve the objective correspondence between affective responses and the physical properties of a product, and the information can be used in new product development.

Environmental problems related to the generation of wastewater contaminated with organic compounds and the emissions of pollutants from fuel burning have become major global problems. Thus, there is a need for the development of alternative and economically viable technologies for the remediation of the affected ecosystems. Therefore, this work describes the preparation and characterization of a Ti(OH)4 catalyst with the modified surface for application in the photodegradation of organic compounds (methylene blue (MB) dye and the drug amiloride (AML)) and in the artificial photosynthesis process. Characterization results reveal that peroxo groups on the surface of the catalyst had a great influence on the optical properties of the Ti(OH)4 and consequently in its photocatalytic property. This catalyst showed a high photocatalytic activity for the degradation of organic pollutants under visible radiation, reaching approximately 98% removal of both the dye and the drug in 150 min of reaction. In addition, the catalyst presented a great potential for the reduction of CO2 under ultraviolet (UV) radiation when compared to P25, which is a classic catalyst used in photocatalytic processes. The highest photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the strong visible light absorption, due to the narrow band gap, and the effective separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs caused by the peroxo groups on the Ti(OH)4 surface.

Key points Lat4 (Slc43a2) transports branched-chain amino acids, phenylalanine and methionine, and is expressed in kidney tubule and small intestine epithelial cells. Using a new knockout model as a negative control, it is shown that Lat4 is expressed at the basolateral side of small intestine enterocytes and kidney epithelial cells of the proximal tubule, thick ascending limb and distal convoluted tubule. In the Xenopus oocyte expression system, Lat4 is shown to function as a uniporter with symmetric intracellular and extracellular apparent affinities for phenylalanine. Mice lacking Lat4 display a slight intrauterine growth restriction, postnatal malnutrition and early death, presumably as a result of defective amino acid (re)absorption. These results demonstrate the crucial role that the uniporter Lat4 plays for amino acid transport across cellular barriers and mouse development. Abstract Amino acid (AA) uniporter Lat4 (Slc43a2) mediates facilitated diffusion of branched-chain AAs, methionine and phenylalanine, although its physiological role and subcellular localization are not known. We report that Slc43a2 knockout mice were born at expected Mendelian frequency but displayed an ∼10% intrauterine growth retardation and low amniotic fluid AAs, suggesting defective transplacental transport. Postnatal growth was strongly reduced, with premature death occurring within 9 days such that further investigations were made within 3 days of birth. Lat4 immunofluorescence showed a strong basolateral signal in the small intestine, kidney proximal tubule and thick ascending limb epithelial cells of wild-type but not Slc43a2 null littermates and no signal in liver and skeletal muscle. Experiments using Xenopus laevis oocytes demonstrated that Lat4 functioned as a symmetrical low affinity uniporter with a K0.5 of ∼5 mm for both in- and efflux. Plasma AA concentration was decreased in Slc43a2 null pups, in particular that of non-essential AAs alanine, serine, histidine and proline. Together with an increased level of plasma long chain acylcarnitines and a strong alteration of liver gene expression, this indicates malnutrition. Attempts to rescue pups by decreasing the litter size or by nutrients injected i.p. did not succeed. Radioactively labelled leucine but not lysine given per os accumulated in the small intestine of Slc43a2null pups, suggesting the defective transcellular transport of Lat4 substrates. In summary, Lat4 is a symmetrical uniporter for neutral essential AAs localizing at the basolateral side of (re)absorbing epithelia and is necessary for early nutrition and development.