Global atmospheric methane uptake by upland tree woody surfaces.

Methane is an important greenhouse gas1, but the role of trees in the methane budget remains uncertain2. Although it has been shown that wetland and some upland trees can emit soil-derived methane at the stem base3,4, it has also been suggested that upland trees can serve as a net sink for atmospheric methane5,6. Here we examine in situ woody surface methane exchange of upland tropical, temperate and boreal forest trees. We find that methane uptake on woody surfaces, in particular at and above about 2 m above the forest floor, can dominate the net ecosystem contribution of trees, resulting in a net tree methane sink. Stable carbon isotope measurement of methane in woody surface chamber air and process-level investigations on extracted wood cores are consistent with methanotrophy, suggesting a microbially mediated drawdown of methane on and in tree woody surfaces and tissues. By applying terrestrial laser scanning-derived allometry to quantify global forest tree woody surface area, a preliminary first estimate suggests that trees may contribute 24.6-49.9 Tg of atmospheric methane uptake globally. Our findings indicate that the climate benefits of tropical and temperate forest protection and reforestation may be greater than previously assumed.

Overexpression of a soybean Globin (GmGlb1-1) gene reduces plant susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita.

MAIN CONCLUSION: The overexpression of the GmGlb1-1 gene reduces plant susceptibility to Meloidogyne incognita. Non-symbiotic globin class #1 (Glb1) genes are expressed in different plant organs, have a high affinity for oxygen, and are related to nitric oxide (NO) turnover. Previous studies showed that soybean Glb1 genes are upregulated in soybean plants under flooding conditions. Herein, the GmGlb1-1 gene was identified in soybean as being upregulated in the nematode-resistant genotype PI595099 compared to the nematode-susceptible cultivar BRS133 during plant parasitism by Meloidogyne incognita. The Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana tabacum transgenic lines overexpressing the GmGlb1-1 gene showed reduced susceptibility to M. incognita. Consistently, gall morphology data indicated that pJ2 nematodes that infected the transgenic lines showed developmental alterations and delayed parasitism progress. Although no significant changes in biomass and seed yield were detected, the transgenic lines showed an elongated, etiolation-like growth under well-irrigation, and also developed more axillary roots under flooding conditions. In addition, transgenic lines showed upregulation of some important genes involved in plant defense response to oxidative stress. In agreement, higher hydrogen peroxide accumulation and reduced activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification enzymes were also observed in these transgenic lines. Thus, based on our data and previous studies, it was hypothesized that constitutive overexpression of the GmGlb1-1 gene can interfere in the dynamics of ROS production and NO scavenging, enhancing the acquired systemic acclimation to biotic and abiotic stresses, and improving the cellular homeostasis. Therefore, these collective data suggest that ectopic or nematode-induced overexpression, or enhanced expression of the GmGlb1-1 gene using CRISPR/dCas9 offers great potential for application in commercial soybean cultivars aiming to reduce plant susceptibility to M. incognita.

Non-flooded riparian Amazon trees are a regionally significant methane source.

Inundation-adapted trees were recently established as the dominant egress pathway for soil-produced methane (CH4) in forested wetlands. This raises the possibility that CH4 produced deep within the soil column can vent to the atmosphere via tree roots even when the water table (WT) is below the surface. If correct, this would challenge modelling efforts where inundation often defines the spatial extent of ecosystem CH4 production and emission. Here, we examine CH4 exchange on tree, soil and aquatic surfaces in forest experiencing a dynamic WT at three floodplain locations spanning the Amazon basin at four hydrologically distinct times from April 2017 to January 2018. Tree stem emissions were orders of magnitude larger than from soil or aquatic surface emissions and exhibited a strong relationship to WT depth below the surface (less than 0). We estimate that Amazon riparian floodplain margins with a WT < 0 contribute 2.2-3.6 Tg CH4 yr-1 to the atmosphere in addition to inundated tree emissions of approximately 12.7-21.1 Tg CH4 yr-1. Applying our approach to all tropical wetland broad-leaf trees yields an estimated non-flooded floodplain tree flux of 6.4 Tg CH4 yr-1 which, at 17% of the flooded tropical tree flux of approximately 37.1 Tg CH4 yr-1, demonstrates the importance of these ecosystems in extending the effective CH4 emitting area beyond flooded lands. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Rising methane: is warming feeding warming? (part 2)'.

Structure, function and resilience to desiccation of methanogenic microbial communities in temporarily inundated soils of the Amazon rainforest (Cunia Reserve, Rondonia).

The floodplain of the Amazon River is a large source for the greenhouse gas methane, but the soil microbial communities and processes involved are little known. We studied the structure and function of the methanogenic microbial communities in soils across different inundation regimes in the Cunia Reserve, encompassing nonflooded forest soil (dry forest), occasionally flooded Igapo soils (dry Igapo), long time flooded Igapo soils (wet Igapo) and sediments from Igarape streams (Igarape). We also investigated a Transect (four sites) from the water shoreline into the dry forest. The potential and resilience of the CH4 production process were studied in the original soil samples upon anaerobic incubation and again after artificial desiccation and rewetting. Bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA genes and methanogenic mcrA were always present in the soils, except in dry forest soils where mcrA increased only upon anaerobic incubation. NMDS analysis showed a clear effect of desiccation and rewetting treatments on both bacterial and archaeal communities. However, the effects of the different sites were less pronounced, with the exception of Igarape. After anaerobic incubation, methanogenic taxa became more abundant among the Archaea, while there was only little change among the Bacteria. Contribution of hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis was usually around 40%. After desiccation and rewetting, we found that Firmicutes, Methanocellales and Methanosarcinaceae became the dominant taxa, but rates and pathways of CH4 production stayed similar. Such change was also observed in soils from the Transects. The results indicate that microbial community structures of Amazonian soils will in general be strongly affected by flooding and drainage events, while differences between specific field sites will be comparatively minor.

Culture-independent characterization of a novel magnetotactic member affiliated to the Beta class of the Proteobacteria phylum from an acidic lagoon.

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) comprise a group of motile microorganisms common in most mesothermal aquatic habitats with pH values around neutrality. However, during the last two decades, a number of MTB from extreme environments have been characterized including: cultured alkaliphilic strains belonging to the Deltaproteobacteria class of the Proteobacteria phylum; uncultured moderately thermophilic strains belonging to the Nitrospirae phylum; cultured and uncultured moderately halophilic or strongly halotolerant bacteria affiliated with the Deltaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria classes and an uncultured psychrophilic species belonging to the Alphaproteobacteria class. Here, we used culture-independent techniques to characterize MTB from an acidic freshwater lagoon in Brazil (pH ∼ 4.4). MTB morphotypes found in this acidic lagoon included cocci, rods, spirilla and vibrioid cells. Magnetite (Fe3 O4 ) was the only mineral identified in magnetosomes of these MTB while magnetite magnetosome crystal morphologies within the different MTB cells included cuboctahedral (present in spirilla), elongated prismatic (present in cocci and vibrios) and bullet-shaped (present in rod-shaped cells). Intracellular pH measurements using fluorescent dyes showed that the cytoplasmic pH was close to neutral in most MTB cells and acidic in some intracellular granules. Based on 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analyses, some of the retrieved gene sequences belonged to the genus Herbaspirillum within the Betaproteobacteria class of the Proteobacteria phylum. Fluorescent in situ hybridization using a Herbaspirillum-specific probe hybridized with vibrioid MTB in magnetically-enriched samples. Transmission electron microscopy of the Herbaspirillum-like MTB revealed the presence of many intracellular granules and a single chain of elongated prismatic magnetite magnetosomes. Diverse populations of MTB have not seemed to have been described in detail in an acid environment. In addition, this is the first report of an MTB phylogenetically affiliated with Betaproteobacteria class.

Predictive factors for improved diagnostic accuracy with the use of radial-probe EBUS.

OBJECTIVE: To assess predictive factors for improved diagnostic accuracy with the use of radial-probe EBUS (RP-EBUS). METHODS: This was a retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing RP-EBUS between February of 2012 and January of 2020. Parameters including the presence of a bronchus sign on CT scans, the position of the radial EBUS probe, lesion size, lesion location, and lesion type were analyzed in relation to two defined outcomes (final diagnosis or no diagnosis). Univariate analysis was used in order to explore the individual effects of each parameter on diagnostic accuracy. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify significant predictors of diagnostic accuracy. RESULTS: RP-EBUS was used for diagnostic purposes in 101 patients. The lesion was < 3 cm in size in 59 patients (58.4%) and predominantly solid in 60.3%. There was a positive correlation between radial EBUS probe position and diagnostic accuracy (p = 0.036), with 80.9% of the patients showing a bronchus sign on CT scans. Furthermore, 89% of the patients showed a bronchus sign on CT scans and a correlation with diagnostic accuracy (p = 0.030), with 65.8% of the lesions being located in the left/right upper lobe (p = 0.046). When the radial EBUS probe was within the target lesion, the diagnostic yield was = 80.8%. When the probe was adjacent to the lesion, the diagnostic yield was = 19.2%. A bronchus sign on CT scans was the only parameter that independently influenced diagnostic accuracy (adjusted OR, 3.20; 95% CI, 1.081-9.770; p = 0.036). CONCLUSIONS: A bronchus sign on CT scans is a powerful predictor of successful diagnosis by RP-EBUS.

Significant Increase in Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection in Solid Organ Transplants Associated With Increased Use of Thymoglobulin as Induction Therapy?

BACKGROUND: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection remains one of the most common viral pathogens affecting solid organ transplants (SOT). In 10 years of following the outcome of transplants, we noticed an increased incidence of CMV infection, along with increased use of rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG). The study aims to assess the incidence of active CMV infection and disease, response to treatment, and recurrence in a cohort of SOT. Furthermore, we look for correlating the CMV incidence with the type of induction therapy: r-ATG or interleukin 2 receptor-blocking antibody (basiliximab). METHODS: This was a single-center, retrospective 10-year study in patients submitted to kidney, kidney-liver, and kidney-pancreas transplants who used a preemptive therapy protocol for CMV. RESULTS: Among the 476 enrolled transplant recipients, 306 (64.2 %) had at least one episode of CMV infection (replication), and 71/306 patients (23.2 %) presented CMV-related disease. The most frequent clinical conditions associated with CMV disease were gastrointestinal. Among the 476 transplant patients, 333 received immunosuppressive induction with rATG (69.9 %); 140 (29.4 %) received induction with interleukin 2 receptor-blocking antibody (basiliximab). The initial maintenance immunosuppressive therapy in the patients who presented CMV infection was primarily performed with prednisone, tacrolimus, and sodium mycophenolate (91.7 %). The induction with rATG increased from 35.2%-94.6% in 10 years. The incidence of CMV infection was 20.7 % in the first year of observation and gradually increased to 87.3 % in the last year. CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest that the increase in the use of rATG in recent years could be responsible for the very expressive increase in the incidence of CMV infection/disease.

Bronchoscopy in COVID-19 inpatients: experience of a university hospital in the first outbreak of the disease in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the indications and endoscopic findings of bronchoscopy performed at a reference university hospital for inpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 during the first outbreak of the disease in Brazil. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of medical records of adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who underwent bronchoscopy at the intensive care units of Instituto do Coração and Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, from March to August 2020. RESULTS: A total of 132 bronchoscopies were performed in 103 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Mean age was 56.1±14.5 years, and distribution was similar in both sexes. More than one test was performed in 16 patients. The most frequent indications were diagnostic endoscopic evaluation and therapeutic procedures in 78.6% of cases (n=81) and material collection in 21.4% of cases (n=22). The most frequent endoscopic findings were presence of secretion or clots in 34% of cases, the presence of acute inflammatory changes in 22.3%, and tracheal wall laceration in 20.4%. In 27.2% of patients, no relevant bronchoscopic findings were observed. In three patients, bronchoscopy was indicated to assess hemoptysis, but there was only one case of active bleeding. Procedure-related complications were not observed in this group of patients. CONCLUSION: Bronchoscopy proved to be a safe and effective procedure to assist in treatment of COVID-19 patients, and the most frequent indications were related to investigation of airway involvement or to evaluate infectious and inflammatory pulmonary processes.

Effect of the nanofilm-coated zirconia ceramic on resin cement bond strength.

Background. New surface treatments have been proposed to expand the clinical indications of zirconia prostheses. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of silica and fluorine nanofilms on zirconia ceramic on the resin cement bond strength. Methods. Zirconia blocks and discs underwent different surface treatments: untreated zirconia (CON), sandblasted, silica-coated alumina particles (30 µm) (SC), silica nanofilm (SN), and fluorine nanofilm (FN). Nanofilm deposition was performed through plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Zirconia surfaces were characterized on disks by morphology (atomic force microscopy, AFM), chemical analysis (x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, XPS), and contact angle analysis. A silane coupling agent was applied on each treated surface, and a cylinder of resin cement was built up. Half of the specimens in each group were submitted to 6000 thermal cycles (TC). Bond strength was analyzed using the shear test, and the fractographic analysis was performed with stereomicroscopy and SEM/EDS. Statistical analysis was performed through one-way ANOVA and Tukey test in the non-aged and aged specimens. Results. Nanofilms modified the zirconia surface, which became more hydrophilic and chemically reactive. Chemical bonding between Si-O was found in SN, and FN promoted a fluorination process on the ceramic surface, converting zirconia into zirconium oxyfluoride. Specimens of the SN (TC) group failed on pre-testing. FN (TC) bond strength (3.8 MPa) was lower than SC (TC) and CON (TC) after shearing. Adhesive failure predominated in the experimental groups. Silica nanofilm failure occurred after aging. Conclusion. Silica and fluorine nanofilms deposited by PECVD did not promote effective bonding between zirconia and resin cement.

Endoscopy infection control strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic: experience from a tertiary cancer center in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: Strategic planning for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) care has dominated the agenda of medical services, which have been further restricted by the need for minimizing viral transmission. Risk is particularly relevant in relation to endoscopy procedures. This study aimed to describe a contingency plan for a tertiary academic cancer center, define a strategy to prioritize and postpone examinations, and evaluate the infection rate among healthcare workers (HCWs) in the endoscopy unit of the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo (ICESP). METHODS: We created a strategy to balance the risk of acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and to mitigate the effects of postponing endoscopic procedures in oncological patients. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on all endoscopies between March and June 2020 compared with those during the same period in 2019 was carried out. All HCWs were interviewed to obtain clinical data and SARS-CoV-2 test results. RESULTS: During the COVID-19 outbreak, there was a reduction of 55% in endoscopy cases in total. Colonoscopy was the most affected modality. The total infection rate among all HCWs was 38%. None of the senior digestive endoscopists had COVID-19. However, all bronchoscopists had been infected. One of three fellows had a serological diagnosis of COVID-19. Two-thirds of all nurses were infected, whereas half of all technicians were infected. CONCLUSIONS: In this pandemic scenario, all endoscopy services must prioritize the procedures that will be performed. It was possible to maintain some endoscopic procedures, including those meant to provide nutritional access, tissue diagnosis, and endoscopic resection. Personal protective equipment (PPE) seems effective in preventing transmission of COVID-19 from patients to digestive endoscopists. These measures can be useful in planning, even for pandemics in the future.

EBUS-TBNA versus surgical mediastinoscopy for mediastinal lymph node staging in potentially operable non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Lung cancer (LC) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Accurate mediastinal staging is mandatory in order to assess prognosis and to select patients for surgical treatment. EBUS-TBNA is a minimally invasive procedure that allows sampling of mediastinal lymph nodes (LNs). Some studies have suggested that EBUS-TBNA is preferable to surgical mediastinoscopy for mediastinal staging of LC. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare EBUS-TBNA and mediastinoscopy in terms of their effectiveness for mediastinal LN staging in potentially operable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS: This was a systematic review and meta-analysis, in which we searched various databases. We included studies comparing the accuracy of EBUS-TBNA with that of mediastinoscopy for mediastinal LN staging in patients with NSCLC. In the meta-analysis, we calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratios, and negative likelihood ratios. We also analyzed the risk difference for the reported complications associated with each procedure. RESULTS: The search identified 4,201 articles, 5 of which (with a combined total of 532 patients) were selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis. There were no statistically significant differences between EBUS-TBNA and mediastinoscopy in terms of the sensitivity (81% vs. 75%), specificity (100% for both), positive likelihood ratio (101.03 vs. 95.70), or negative likelihood ratio (0.21 vs. 0.23). The area under the summary ROC curve was 0.9881 and 0.9895 for EBUS-TBNA and mediastinoscopy, respectively. Although the number of complications was higher for mediastinoscopy, the difference was not significant (risk difference: -0.03; 95% CI: -0.07 to 0.01; I2 = 76%). CONCLUSIONS: EBUS-TBNA and mediastinoscopy produced similar results for mediastinal staging of NSCLC. EBUS-TBNA can be the procedure of first choice for LN staging in patients with NSCLC.

The role of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration in isolated intrathoracic lymphadenopathy in non-neoplastic patients: a common dilemma in clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the diagnostic yield of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) in non-neoplastic patients with isolated intrathoracic lymphadenopathy (IL). METHODS: This was a retrospective study of patients with isolated IL referred for EBUS-TBNA. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of EBUS-TBNA in the diagnosis of granulomatous, reactive, and neoplastic lymphadenopathy. In cases of nonspecific granulomas, reactive lymphadenopathy, or inconclusive results, a definitive diagnosis was established by other diagnostic procedures or during a follow-up period of at least 18 months. RESULTS: Among the 58 patients included in the study, EBUS-TBNA established a diagnosis of granulomatous disease in 22 (38%), reactive lymphadenopathy in 15 (26%), cancer in 8 (14%), and other diseases in 3 (5%). Results were inconclusive in 10 (17%), the diagnosis being established by other bronchoscopic procedures in 2 (20%) and by surgical procedures in 8 (80%). A final diagnosis of reactive lymphadenopathy was established in 12. Of those, 11 (92%) had their diagnosis confirmed during follow-up and 1 (8%) had their diagnosis confirmed by mediastinoscopy. In another 3, a final diagnosis of sarcoidosis or neoplasm was established. For the diagnosis of granulomatous disease, neoplasms, and reactive lymphadenopathy, EBUS-TBNA was found to have a sensitivity of 73%, 68%, and 92%, respectively; a specificity of 100%, 100%, and 93%, respectively; an accuracy of 86%, 93%, and 93%, respectively; a PPV of 100%, 100%, and 80%, respectively; and an NPV of 78%, 92%, and 98%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In non-neoplastic patients, granulomatous disease and reactive lymphadenopathy appear to be common causes of isolated IL. EBUS-TBNA shows promising results as a first-line minimally invasive diagnostic procedure. The results obtained by EBUS-TBNA can be optimized by examining clinical and radiological findings during follow-up or by comparison with the results obtained with other bronchoscopic methods.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 and the Myocardium. / Doença de Coronavírus-19 e o Miocárdio.

Infection with the coronavirus known as COVID-19 has promoted growing interest on the part of cardiologists, emergency care specialists, intensive care specialists, and researchers, due to the study of myocardial involvement based on different clinical forms resulting from immunoinflammatory and neurohumoral demodulation.Myocardial involvement may be minimal and identifiable only by electrocardiographic changes, mainly increased cardiac troponins, or, on the other side of the spectrum, by forms of fulminant myocarditis and takotsubo syndrome.The description of probable acute myocarditis has been widely supported by the observation of increased troponin in association with dysfunction. Classical definition of myocarditis, supported by endomyocardial biopsy of inflammatory infiltrate, is rare; it has been observed in only one case report to date, and the virus has not been identified inside cardiomyocytes.Thus, the phenomenon that has been documented is acute myocardial injury, making it necessary to rule our obstructive coronary disease based on increased markers of myocardial necrosis, whether or not they are associated with ventricular dysfunction, likely associated with cytokine storms and other factors that may synergistically promote myocardial injury, such as sympathetic hyperactivation, hypoxemia, arterial hypotension, and microvascular thrombotic phenomena.Systemic inflammatory and myocardial phenomena following viral infection have been well documented, and they may progress to cardiac remodeling and myocardial dysfunction. Cardiac monitoring of these patients is, therefore, important in order to monitor the development of the phenotype of dilated myocardiopathy.This review presents the main etiological and physiopathological findings, a description of the taxonomy of these types of cardiac involvement, and their correlation with the main clinical forms of the myocardial component present in patients in the acute phase of COVID-19.

Early complications in flexible bronchoscopy at a university hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the complications related to flexible bronchoscopy (FB) and its collection procedures in outpatients and inpatients with various lung and airway diseases treated at a university hospital. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of complications occurring during or within 2 h after FB performed between January of 2012 and December of 2013, as recorded in the database of the respiratory endoscopy department of a hospital complex in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. RESULTS: We analyzed 3,473 FBs. Complications occurred in 185 procedures (5.3%): moderate to severe bleeding, in 2.2%; pneumothorax, in 0.7%; severe bronchospasm, in 0.8%; general complications (hypoxemia, psychomotor agitation, arrhythmias, vomiting, or hypotension), in 1.6%; and cardiopulmonary arrest, in 0.03%. There were no deaths related to the procedures. Specifically, among the 1,728 patients undergoing biopsy, bronchial brushing, or fine-needle aspiration biopsy, bleeding occurred in 75 (4.3%). Among the 1,191 patients undergoing transbronchial biopsy, severe pneumothorax (requiring chest tube drainage) occurred in 24 (2.0%). CONCLUSIONS: In our patient sample, FB proved to be a safe method with a low rate of complications. Appropriate continuing training of specialist doctors and nursing staff, as well as the development of standardized care protocols, are important for maintaining those standards.

Evolution of nitrogen cycling in regrowing Amazonian rainforest.

Extensive regions of tropical forests are subjected to high rates of deforestation and forest regrowth and both are strongly affect soil nutrient cycling. Nitrogen (N) dynamics changes during forest regrowth and the recovery of forests and functioning similar to pristine conditions depends on sufficient N availability. We show that, in a chronosequence of Amazonian forests, gross nitrification and, as a result, nitrate-to-ammonium (NO3-: NH4+) ratio were lower in all stages of regrowing forests (10 to 40 years) compared to pristine forest. This indicates the evolution of a more conservative and closed N cycle with reduced risk for N leaking out of the ecosystem in regrowing forests. Furthermore, our results indicate that mineralization and nitrification are decoupled in young regrowing forests (10 years), such as that high gross mineralization is accompanied by low gross nitrification, demonstrating a closed N cycle that at the same time maintains N supply for forest regrowth. We conclude that the status of gross nitrification in disturbed soil is a key process to understand the mechanisms of and time needed for tropical forest recovery.

Accuracy of Digital Impression Taking in Partial Dentures: an in Vitro Study on the Degree of Adaptation of Rests / Precisão da Tomada de Impressão Digital em Próteses Parciais: um Estudo in Vitro sobre o Grau de Adaptação de Apoios

The objective of the study is to assess the precision of digital impressions in removable partial dentures through an in vitro study on the degree of abutment adaptation. A Kennedy Class III model with a prosthetic space between elements 43 and 47, featuring niches in the mesio-occlusal and cingulum regions, respectively. Conventional impressions were performed in subgroups CONC and CONM, while digital scanning was conducted in subgroups DIGC and DIGM. Simplified cobalt-chromium alloy frameworks were manufactured using the lost-wax technique on plaster and resin models. The degree of adaptation of the structures was evaluated by impressing the niches with condensation silicone, qualitatively assessing perforations, and quantitatively measuring the mold thickness under a stereomicroscope after cross-sectioning. Regular adaptation was more prevalent among the experimental groups. CONC showed a higher mean degree of abutment adaptation, while CONM had a lower mean. The study factors, impression technique, and type of abutment seat, were not statistically significant, with no interaction among the variables. Occlusal and cingulum abutment measurement points, in both impression techniques, showed no statistically significant difference. Digital scanning yielded better results in terms of abutment adaptation, with smaller average gaps between the abutment seat and the metal structure, making it clinically acceptable. The type of abutment seat and the impression technique did not have a statistically significant impact on abutment adaptation. The impression technique does not represent a factor influencing the adaptation of occlusal and cingulum abutments at different measurement points. (AU)

O Objetivo do estudo é valiar precisão da impressão digital em próteses parciais removíveis, por meio de um estudo in vitro sobre o grau de adaptação dos apoios. Um modelo Classe III de Kennedy com espaço protético entre o elemento 43 e 47, nichos na região mésio-oclusal e na do cíngulo. Foram realizadas impressões convencionais nos subgrupos CONC e CONM, e digitalização nos subgrupos DIGC e DIGM, onde estruturas simplificadas de liga de Co-Cr foram fabricadas usando a técnica de fundição perdida nos modelos de gesso e resina. O grau de adaptação das estruturas foi avaliado pela impressão dos nichos com silicone de condensação, qualitativamente as perfurações e quantitativamente a espessura do molde em um estereomicroscópio após seção transversal. A adaptação regular foi mais prevalente entre os grupos experimentais. CONC maior média do grau de adaptação do apoio, enquanto CONM menor média. Os fatores do estudo, técnica de impressão e tipo de assento de apoio, não foram estatisticamente significativos, sem interação entre as variáveis. Pontos de medição de apoio oclusal e de cíngulo, em ambas as técnicas de impressão, sem diferença estatisticamente significativa. A digitalização mostrou melhores resultados em relação ao grau de adaptação dos apoios, com menores lacunas médias entre o assento de apoio e a estrutura metálica, sendo clinicamente aceitável. O tipo de assento de apoio e a técnica de impressão não interferem estatisticamente na adaptação dos apoios. A técnica de impressão não representa um fator que influencie a adaptação de apoios oclusais e de cíngulo em diferentes pontos de medição. (AU)

Silicon-based film on the yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal: Surface and shear bond strength analysis.

AIM: To analyze the effect of a silicon (Si)-based film deposited on yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) on the topography and bond strength of resin cement. METHODS: Specimens of zirconia were obtained and randomly divided into 4 groups, according to surface treatment: polished group (PG) zirconia; sandblasted group (SG) zirconia with aluminum oxide (100 µm); after polished, zirconia was coated with Si-based film group (SiFG); and after sandblasted, zirconia was coated with Si-based film group (SiFSG). The Si-based films were obtained through plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Surface roughness and contact angle analysis were performed. Resin cement cylinders were built up on the treated surface of blocks, after applying Monobond-S. The specimens were submitted to thermocycling aging and shear bond strength testing. The Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U-tests were performed. RESULTS: There were significant differences between the surface treatments for each roughness parameter measured. Si-based film increased roughness and decreased the contact angle. Si-based film groups also demonstrated significantly lower bond strength values. CONCLUSION: Si-based film produced using plasma deposition provided lower bond strength to resin cement compared with conventional treatment; however, the film deposition reduced the contact angle and improved roughness, favorable properties in the long way to prepare an optimum material.

CAD/CAM Materials for Endocrown Restorations: Evaluation of Microhardness, Flexural Strength, and Surface Characterization / Materiais CAD/CAM para Restaurações Endocrowns: Avaliação da Microdureza, Resistência à Flexão e Caracterização Superficial

Endocrowns have emerged as a promising option for restoring endodontically treated teeth, offeringa restorable fracture scenario. However, regarding the choice of material and its fracture resistance, there are gaps in the literature regarding the best indication. The objective of this research was to evaluate and compare the effect of restorative materials for CAD-CAM in the manufacture of endocrown restorations, through an in Vitro study on hardness and fracture resistance. For the study, CAD-CAM blocks were transformed into discs 12 mm in diameter and 1.2 mm thick (specimens). Three restorative materials were evaluated and distributed into experimental groups (N=12 specimens): Leucita- Reinforced Ceramic/ IPS Empress CAD (MRleu), Lithium Disilicate/ IPS Emax CAD (MRdis) and Nanoceramic Resin /Lava Ultimate (MRres). These restorative materials were evaluated for morphology (N=1) by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and surface chemistry (N=1) by dispersive energy spectroscopy (EDS). The specimens were evaluated when the Vikers micro hardness (N=1) with a load of 1kg and 10 indentations, as well as the resistance to biaxial flexion (N=10) at a test speed of 0.5 mm/min. After the fracture occurred, the fragments were examined under a stereomicroscope. The results were tabulated and analyzed using the Minitab statistical program. The results showed that the MRdis material demonstrated superior results in relation to hardness (P=0.000) and biaxial bending resistance (P=0.000), followed by MRleu and finally the MRres. The presence of inorganic particles on an organic matrix and the presence of Zirconium (Zr) stands out in Lava Ultimate. It was concluded that restorative materials for CAD-CAM in the manufacture of Endocrowns restorations have a significant effect on hardness and mechanical strength.Endocrowns have emerged as a promising option for restoring endodontically treated teeth, offeringa restorable fracture scenario. However, regarding the choice of material and its fracture resistance, there are gaps in the literature regarding the best indication. The objective of this research was to evaluate and compare the effect of restorative materials for CAD-CAM in the manufacture of endocrown restorations, through an in Vitro study on hardness and fracture resistance. For the study, CAD-CAM blocks were transformed into discs 12 mm in diameter and 1.2 mm thick (specimens). Three restorative materials were evaluated and distributed into experimental groups (N=12 specimens): Leucita- Reinforced Ceramic/ IPS Empress CAD (MRleu), Lithium Disilicate/ IPS Emax CAD (MRdis) and Nanoceramic Resin /Lava Ultimate (MRres). These restorative materials were evaluated for morphology (N=1) by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and surface chemistry (N=1) by dispersive energy spectroscopy (EDS). The specimens were evaluated when the Vikers micro hardness (N=1) with a load of 1kg and 10 indentations, as well as the resistance to biaxial flexion (N=10) at a test speed of 0.5 mm/min. After the fracture occurred, the fragments were examined under a stereomicroscope. The results were tabulated and analyzed using the Minitab statistical program. The results showed that the MRdis material demonstrated superior results in relation to hardness (P=0.000) and biaxial bending resistance (P=0.000), followed by MRleu and finally the MRres. The presence of inorganic particles on an organic matrix and the presence of Zirconium (Zr) stands out in Lava Ultimate. It was concluded that restorative materials for CAD-CAM in the manufacture of Endocrowns restorations have a significant effect on hardness and mechanical strength. (AU)

As endocrowns surgiram como uma alternativa favorável para a restauração de dentes tratados endodonticamente, e se apresentam em um cenário de fratura restaurável. No entanto, em relação ao material de escolha e sua resistência à fratura existem lacunas na literature sobre a melhor indicação. O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi avaliar e comparar o efeito de materiais restauradores para CAD-CAM na confecção de restaurações endocrowns, através de um estudo in vitro sobre dureza e resistência à fratura. Para realização do estudo, blocos para CAD-CAM foram transformados em discos com 12 mm de diâmetro e 1,2 mm de espessura (espécimes). Três materiais restauradores foram avaliados e distribuídos em grupos experimentais (N=12 espécimes): Cerâmica Reforçada por Leucita/ IPS Empress CAD (MRleu), Dissilicato de Lítio/ IPS Emax CAD (MRdis) e Resina Nanocerâmica /Lava Ultimate (MRres). Estes materiais restauradores foram avaliados quanto à morfologia (N=1) através de Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) e química superficial (N=1) pela Espectroscopia de energia dispersiva (EDS). Os espécimes foram avaliados quanto à microdureza Vikers (N=1) com uma carga de 1kg e 10 indentações, como também em relação a resistência à flexão biaxial (N=10) em uma velocidade de ensaio de 0,5 mm/min. Os fragmentos após a fratura foram observados em estereomicroscópio. Os dados obtidos foram tabulados e analisados no programa estatístico Minitab. Os resultados observados mostraram que o material MRdis obteve resultados superiores em relação a dureza (P=0,000) e a resistência à flexão biaxial (P=0,000), seguido pelo MRleu e por fim o MRres. Destaca-se na Lava Ultimate a presença de partículas inorgânicas sobre uma matriz orgânica, além da presença de Zircônio (Zr). Conclui-se que materiais restauradores para CAD-CAM na confecção de restaurações Endocrowns apresentam efeito significativo quanto a dureza e resistência mecânica. (AU)

Diamond-like carbon films over reconstructive TMJ prosthetic materials: Effects in the cytotoxicity, chemical and mechanical properties.

Increasingly more young patients have been submitted to reconstruction of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), so, the prostheses must to present more functional longevity. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of diamond-like carbon film (DLC) over titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) and polyethylene (UHWPE) samples, their mechanical and chemical properties and cellular cytotoxicity. METHODS: Titanium and UHWPE specimens, with 2.5 cm in diameter and 2 mm thickness were coated through plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) with DLC or DLC doped with silver (DLC-Ag). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphological analysis, Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) chemical analysis, scratching test, mechanical fatigue test, surface roughness analysis, and cellular cytotoxicity were performed. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05) or two-way ANOVA and multiple comparison Tukey test. RESULTS: In the SEM analysis, morphological differences were observed on substrates after DLC deposition. The film chemically modified the substrate surfaces, according to the EDS analysis. The initial critical load failure occurred at 6.1 N for DLC and 9.7 N for the DLC-Ag film. The DLC film deposition over the polyethylene promoted a decrease in the polymer's damaged area after mechanical fatigue cycling. The cytotoxicity analysis demonstrated less biocompatibility in experimental groups, when compared to control, however, increased biocompatibility was observed, at 10 days, in all groups. CONCLUSION: The diamond-like carbon coating enhanced the chemical and mechanical properties from substrates, however modified biological interaction course of the titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) and polyethylene (UHWPE) samples. Parameters for film deposition remain to be improved in order to obtain best biocompatibility.

Effect of different materials for temporary removable partial denture: an in vitro study on surface roughness and fracture resistance / Efeito de diferentes materiais para confecção de prótese parcial removível provisória: um estudo in vitro sobre rugosidade superficial e resistência à fratura

ABSTRACT The use of removable partial dentures is considered a common and inexpensive treatment option to rehabilitate edentulous areas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different materials for provisional removable partial dentures, an in vitro study on surface roughness and fracture resistance. Thermopolymerizable acrylic resin and thermoplastic resin specimens with dimensions of 10 x 10 x 2 mm (blocks) (n=10) and with dimensions of 65 x 20 x 3 mm (bars) (n=10 were analyzed for their surface roughness (Ra) and three-point flexural strength test. All specimens were subjected to oven aging for 60 days at 37°C±0.5°C in distilled water. The statistical analysis was performed with a significance level of 5%, and the surface roughness data were submitted to the Two-way Anova statistical test (P < 0.05) and the mechanical strength data were subjected to One-way Anova statistical test (P < 0.05). For roughness, the factor resin type (P = 0.000) and the factor aging (P = 0.000) were statically significant, as well as showing interaction (P = 0.228). The Thermopolymerizable acrylic resin had the lowest mean roughness values compared to the thermoplastic resin and showed no statistical difference after aging. The same scenario was repeated for flexural strength values; Thermopolymerizable acrylic resin was statistically superior to thermoplastic resin (P = 0.000). Thermopolymerized acrylic resin showed lower surface roughness values and higher flexural strength values compared to thermoplastic resin.

RESUMO O uso de próteses parciais removíveis é considerado uma opção de tratamento comum e de baixo custo para reabilitar áreas edêntulas. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes materiais para próteses parciais removíveis provisórias, um estudo in vitro sobre rugosidade superficial e resistência à fratura. Espécimes de resina acrílica termopolimerizável e de resina termoplástica com dimensões de 10 x 10 x 2 mm (blocos) (n = 10) e de 65 x 20 x 3 mm (barras) (n = 10) foram analisados em rugosidade superficial média (Ra) e teste de resistência à flexão de três pontos. Todos os espécimes foram submetidos ao envelhecimento em estufa por 60 dias a 37 ° C ± 0,5 ° C em água destilada. A análise estatística se deu com nível de significância de 5%, e os dados de rugosidade superficial foram submetidos ao teste estatístico Anova dois fatores (P <0,05) e os dados de resistência mecânica foram submetidos ao teste estatístico Anova um fator (P <0,05). Para rugosidade, o fator tipo resina (P = 0,000) e o fator envelhecimento (P = 0,000) foram estatisticamente significantes, além de apresentar interação (P = 0,228). A resina acrílica termopolimerizável apresentou menores valores médios de rugosidade em relação à resina termoplástica e não apresentou diferença estatística após envelhecimento. O mesmo cenário foi repetido para valores de resistência à flexão; a resina acrílica termopolimerizável foi estatisticamente superior à resina termoplástica (P = 0,000). A resina acrílica termopolimerizada apresentou menores valores de rugosidade superficial e maiores valores de resistência à flexão em relação à resina termoplástica.