Association of Income Level and Ischemic Heart Disease: Potential Role of Walkability. / Associação de Nível de Renda e Doença Isquêmica do Coração: Papel Potencial da Caminhabilidade.

BACKGROUND: Association of Income Level and Ischemic Heart Disease: Potential Role of Walkability Association of ischemic heart disease (adjusted for traditional risk factors and socioeconomics variables) and income level (A), and walkability z-score (B), and association of walkability z-score and income level (C). BACKGROUND: Socioeconomic status has been linked to ischemic heart disease (IHD). High-income neighborhoods may expose individuals to a walking-promoting built environment for daily activities (walkability). Data from the association between income and IHD is lacking in middle-income countries. It is also uncertain whether walkability mediates this association. OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether income is associated with IHD in a middle-income country and whether neighborhood walkability mediates the income-IHD association. METHODS: This cross-sectional study evaluated 44,589 patients referred for myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI). Income and walkability were derived from participants' residential census tract. Walkability quantitative score combined 4 variables: street connectivity, residential density, commercial density, and mixed land use. IHD was defined by abnormal myocardial perfusion during a SPECT-MPI study. We used adjusted mixed effects models to evaluate the association between income level and IHD, and we performed a mediation analysis to measure the percentage of the income-IHD association mediated by walkability. We considered p values below 0.01 as statistically significant. RESULTS: From 26,415 participants, those living in the lowest-income tertile census tract were more physically inactive (79.1% versus 75.8% versus 72.7%) when compared to higher-income tertile census tracts (p < 0.001). Income was associated with IHD (odds ratio: 0.91 [95% confidence interval: 0.87 to 0.96] for each 1,000.00 international dollars increase in income) for both men and women equally (p for interaction = 0.47). Census tracts with a higher income were associated with better walkability (p < 0.001); however, walkability did not mediate the income-IHD association (percent mediated = -0.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Income was independently associated with higher prevalence of IHD in a middle-income country irrespective of gender. Although walkability was associated with census tract income, it did not mediate the income-IHD association.

Effect of Finishing Protocols on the Surface Roughness and Fatigue Strength of a High-Translucent Zirconia.

Purpose: In case of need for esthetical improvement of zirconia restorations, an individualization using extrinsic staining can be applied. This study aimed to evaluate the surface roughness and fatigue strength (survival) of high-translucency zirconia (3Y-TZP, YZ®HT, Vita Zanhfabrik) with extrinsic characterization and/or glaze. Methods: Sixty (60) zirconia discs (12 × 1.2 mm) were obtained, sintered, and randomly distributed among three groups (n = 20) according to the surface finishing protocol: C (control), C + G (extrinsic characterization followed by a glaze layer), and G (glaze layer). The surface roughness (Ra) was analyzed with a contact profilometer. Subsequently, the specimens were subjected to a fatigue load profile starting at 120 N during 20,000 cycles at 4 Hz frequency, with a 5% increase at each step until failure. The failed specimens were evaluated under a stereomicroscope. Surface roughness analysis was evaluated by using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests (95%); while fatigue survival probability was analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Mantel-Cox (log- rank, 95%). Results: One-way ANOVA revealed that surface roughness was affected by the finishing protocol, where C + G showed the highest mean value (0.46 ± 0.18 µm)A followed by G (0.30 ± 0.10 µm)B, and C (0.19 ± 0.02 µm)C. While for fatigue strength, the G protocol presented a higher mean value (243.00, and 222.36-263.63)A, followed by C + G (192.75 and 186.61-198.88)B and C (172.50 and 159.43-185.56)C. Conclusion: Surface finishing protocols modify the surface roughness and fatigue strength of high-translucent zirconia. Regardless of the surface roughness, both glazing protocols improved the ceramic fatigue strength, favoring the restoration's long-term survival.

High-Translucency Zirconia Following Chemical Vapor Deposition with SiH4: Evidence of Surface Modifications and Improved Bonding.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) with silicon hydride (SiH4) at different times on HT-zirconia surface characteristics and bonding of composite cement before and after thermocycling. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blocks of HT zirconia were obtained, polished, sintered and divided into five groups, according to PECVD time (n = 31): Zr-30 (30 s), Zr-60 (60 s), Zr-120 (120 s) and Zr-300 (300 s). The control group (Zr-0) did not receive PECVD. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) in conjunction with field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), goniometry, and profilometry tests were used for chemical and topographic characterization. Monobond N silane (Ivoclar Vivadent) was applied to the surface, and a cylinder of composite cement (Variolink N) was made (3 x 3 mm). Half of the specimens of each group were stored for 24 h or subjected to thermocycling (6 x 103 cycles). A shear bond strength (SBS) test was performed. Results were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: For experimental groups, XPS showed that formation of Si-O bonds contributed to increased surface free energy (SFE). FE-SEM and EDS showed that the longer the deposition time, the greater the amount of silicon on the surface. Zr-60 and Zr-300 presented higher and lower surface roughnesses, respectively. The silicon penetrated the microstructure, causing higher stress concentrations. The bond strength to composite cement was improved after all PECVD deposition times. CONCLUSION: The PECVD technique with SiH4, associated with chemical treatment with primer based on silane methacrylate, is a solely chemical surface treatment capable of maintaining bonding between composite cement and HT zirconia.

A gastric neuroendocrine tumor after prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors.

We describe a case of a gastric neuroendocrine tumor (NET) in a patient with a history of long- term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use. A 29- year- old man using PPI for the last 10 years due to gastroesophageal reflux disease developed progressive bouts of heartburn. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy localized an elevated lesion with central depression in the greater curvature of gastric body. Lesion biopsies revealed a well- differentiated neuroendocrine tumor. Despite PPIs have a well- established safety profile, concerns have been raised about a potential relationship between PPI- induced hypergastrinemia and the development of neuroendocrine tumors.

Unwrapping broken tails: Biological and environmental correlates of predation pressure in limbless reptiles.

Studying species interactions in nature often requires elaborated logistics and intense fieldwork. The difficulties in such task might hinder our ability to answer questions on how biotic interactions change with the environment. Fortunately, a workaround to this problem lies within scientific collections. For some animals, the inspection of preserved specimens can reveal the scars of past antagonistic encounters, such as predation attempts. A common defensive behaviour that leaves scars on animals is autotomy, the loss of a body appendage to escape predation. By knowing the collection site of preserved specimens, it is possible to assess the influence of organismal biology and the surrounding environment in the occurrence of autotomy. We gathered data on tail loss for 8189 preserved specimens of 33 snake and 11 amphisbaenian species to investigate biological and environmental correlates of autotomy in reptiles. We applied generalized linear mixed effect models to evaluate whether body size, sex, life-stage, habitat use, activity pattern, biome, tropicality, temperature and precipitation affect the probability of tail loss in limbless reptiles. We observed autotomy in 23.6% of examined specimens, with 18.7% of amphisbaenian and 33.4% of snake specimens showing tail loss. The probability of tail loss did not differ between snakes and amphisbaenians, but it was higher among large-sized specimens, particularly in adults and females. Chance of tail loss was higher for diurnal and arboreal species, and among specimens collected in warmer regions, but it was unaffected by biome, precipitation, and tropicality. Autotomy in limbless reptiles was affected by size-dependent factors that interplay with ontogeny and sexual dimorphism, although size-independent effects of life-stage and sex also shaped behavioural responses to predators. The increase in probability of tail loss with verticality and diurnality suggests a risk-balance mechanism between species habitat use and activity pattern. Although autotomy is more likely in warmer regions, it seems unrelated to seasonal differences in snakes and amphisbaenians activity. Our findings reveal several processes related to predator-prey interactions involving limbless reptiles, demonstrating the importance of scientific collections to unveil ecological mechanisms at different spatio-temporal scales.

Associação de Nível de Renda e Doença Isquêmica do Coração: Papel Potencial da Caminhabilidade / Association of Income Level and Ischemic Heart Disease: Potential Role of Walkability

Resumo Fundamento O nível socioeconômico tem sido associado à doença isquêmica do coração (DIC). Bairros de alta renda podem expor os indivíduos a um ambiente construído que promova caminhadas para atividades diárias (caminhabilidade). Faltam dados sobre a associação entre renda e DIC em países de renda média. Também é incerto se a caminhabilidade medeia essa associação. Objetivos Investigar se a renda está associada à DIC em um país de renda média e se a caminhabilidade dos bairros medeia a associação entre renda e DIC. Métodos O presente estudo transversal avaliou 44.589 pacientes encaminhados para imagem de perfusão miocárdica (SPECT-MPI). A renda e a caminhabilidade foram derivadas do setor censitário residencial dos participantes. A pontuação quantitativa da caminhabilidade combinou as seguintes 4 variáveis: conectividade viária, densidade residencial, densidade comercial e uso misto do solo. A DIC foi definida pela presença de perfusão miocárdica anormal durante um estudo SPECT-MPI. Utilizamos modelos ajustados com efeitos mistos para avaliar a associação entre nível de renda e DIC e realizamos uma análise de mediação para medir o percentual da associação entre renda e DIC mediada pela caminhabilidade. Consideramos valores de p abaixo de 0,01 como estatisticamente significativos. Resultados Dos 26.415 participantes, aqueles que residiam no setor censitário do tercil de menor renda eram mais fisicamente inativos (79,1% versus 75,8% versus 72,7%) quando comparados aos setores censitários do tercil de maior renda (p < 0,001). A renda foi associada à DIC (odds ratio: 0,91 [intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,87 a 0,96] para cada aumento de 1000,00 dólares internacionais na renda), para homens e mulheres igualmente (p para interação = 0,47). Os setores censitários com maior renda estiveram associados a uma melhor caminhabilidade (p < 0,001); no entanto, a caminhabilidade não mediou a associação entre renda e DIC (porcentagem mediada = −0,3%). Conclusões A renda foi independentemente associada a maior prevalência de DIC em um país de renda média, independentemente de gênero. Embora a caminhabilidade tenha sido associada à renda do setor censitário, ela não mediou a associação entre renda e DIC.

Abstract Background Socioeconomic status has been linked to ischemic heart disease (IHD). High-income neighborhoods may expose individuals to a walking-promoting built environment for daily activities (walkability). Data from the association between income and IHD is lacking in middle-income countries. It is also uncertain whether walkability mediates this association. Objectives To investigate whether income is associated with IHD in a middle-income country and whether neighborhood walkability mediates the income-IHD association. Methods This cross-sectional study evaluated 44,589 patients referred for myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI). Income and walkability were derived from participants' residential census tract. Walkability quantitative score combined 4 variables: street connectivity, residential density, commercial density, and mixed land use. IHD was defined by abnormal myocardial perfusion during a SPECT-MPI study. We used adjusted mixed effects models to evaluate the association between income level and IHD, and we performed a mediation analysis to measure the percentage of the income-IHD association mediated by walkability. We considered p values below 0.01 as statistically significant. Results From 26,415 participants, those living in the lowest-income tertile census tract were more physically inactive (79.1% versus 75.8% versus 72.7%) when compared to higher-income tertile census tracts (p < 0.001). Income was associated with IHD (odds ratio: 0.91 [95% confidence interval: 0.87 to 0.96] for each 1,000.00 international dollars increase in income) for both men and women equally (p for interaction = 0.47). Census tracts with a higher income were associated with better walkability (p < 0.001); however, walkability did not mediate the income-IHD association (percent mediated = −0.3%). Conclusions Income was independently associated with higher prevalence of IHD in a middle-income country irrespective of gender. Although walkability was associated with census tract income, it did not mediate the income-IHD association.

Efecto del ácido deoxicólico sobre la regulación del transporte iónico intestinal en la rata / Deoxycholic acid efect on intestinal ionic transport regulation in the rat

The intestine has a very important role in the homeostasis of the internal medium. Bile acids play a regulatory role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Among them, deoxycholic acid, when its luminal concentration increases due to bacterial overgrowth, modifies hydroelectrolytic transport, producing an increase in the volume of water and electrolytes in stools.

El intestino tiene un papel muy importante en la homeostasis del medio interno. Los ácidos biliares cumplen una función reguladora en la digestión y absorción de nutrientes. Entre ellos el ácido deoxicólico, cuando aumenta su concentración luminal por sobrecrecimiento bacteriano, modifica el transporte hidroelectrolítico produciendo aumento del volumen de agua y electrolitos en las deposiciones.

Effect of hydrothermal and mechanical aging on the fatigue performance of high-translucency zirconias.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of mechanical fatigue cycling using the step-stress approach along with hydrothermaldegradation (134 ºC with a constant pressure of 2 bars for 20 h), and a novel intercalated hydrothermal/fatigue aging protocol on different aspects of the aging resistance of three generations of dental zirconias. METHODS: "Y"Z T (VITA), INCORIS "T"ZI (Dentsply Sirona) and "K"ATANA UTML (Noritake Kuraray) - 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation, respectively-, zirconia disks (N = 153), were divided into 6 groups (n = 3) for monotonic testing and 9 groups (n = 15) for mechanical fatigue testing, according to 3 proposed treatments for each zirconia: CF (control - only mechanical fatigue cycling); AF (aging in hydrothermal reactor at 134 °C for 20 h + mechanical fatigue cycling); AFA (Alternating protocol: 4 steps of 5 h of hydrothermal aging intercalated with mechanical fatigue cycling). Mechanical fatigue aging was performed according to the step-stress approach through biaxial flexural setup (piston-on-3-balls, initial strength: 100 MPa, step: 50 MPa/10,000, frequency: 20 Hz) until failure. Data were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and Mantel-Cox test (α = 0.05), in addition to Weibull analysis. Fractured disks were analyzed in stereomicroscope, Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Diffraction. RESULTS: Continuous hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue cycling decreased the fatigue strength of YAF group (516 ± 38 MPa), while the alternating protocol increased it (730 ± 58 MPa). KATANA UTML showed no differences for both treatments and did not undergo t-m phase transformation. The TAF group showed the highest fatigue strength (810 ± 76 MPa) and cycles for failure (147,000.00 cycles). The fracture origin for all specimens was on the tensile side in pre-existing defects. SIGNIFICANCE: INCORIS TZI zirconia had higher fatigue strength and survival rates after hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue aging. Although less resistant, KATANA UTML did not suffer chemical degradation.

Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) and Organokines: What Is Now and What Will Be in the Future.

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by steatosis, lobular inflammation, and enlargement of the diameter of hepatocytes (ballooning hepatocytes), with or without fibrosis. It affects 20% of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Due to liver dysfunction and the numerous metabolic changes that commonly accompany the condition (obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome), the secretion of organokines is modified, which may contribute to the pathogenesis or progression of the disease. In this sense, this study aimed to perform a review of the role of organokines in NASH. Thus, by combining descriptors such as NASH, organokines, oxidative stress, inflammation, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, a search was carried out in the EMBASE, MEDLINE-PubMed, and Cochrane databases of articles published in the last ten years. Insulin resistance, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, fructose, and intestinal microbiota were factors identified as participating in the genesis and progression of NASH. Changes in the pattern of organokines secretion (adipokines, myokines, hepatokines, and osteokines) directly or indirectly contribute to aggravating the condition or compromise homeostasis. Thus, further studies involving skeletal muscle, adipose, bone, and liver tissue as endocrine organs are essential to better understand the modulation of organokines involved in the pathogenesis of NASH to advance in the treatment of this disease.

Posterior rehabilitation using 3D-printed dental implants and synthetic regenerative biomaterials / Reabilitação posterior com implantes impressos e biomateriais sintéticos

Aim: To describe through a clinical case report the surgical sequence of rehabilitation with 3D-printed implants associated with maxillary sinus floor lift with synthetic regenerative materials, including biphasic bioceramic. Case Report: Patient had an agenesis of the upper left premolars (#12 and #13), a vertical bone deficiency caused by maxillary sinus' pneumatization, and a horizontal alveolar resorption around the missing teeth area. During the surgical procedures, incisions, detachment, and osteotomy were performed in the lateral region of the maxillary sinus. The sinus membrane was detached and lifted 10 mm. Then, a thick poly(dioxanone)-based synthetic resorbable membrane (Plenum) was inserted and adapted inside the sinus to protect the sinus membrane. After the osteotomies with sub-instrumentation, 3D-printed implants (Plenum) were installed in the #12 area (3.5mm x 11.5 mm; 30N) and #13 area (4.0mm x 10mm; 20N). The maxillary sinus was entirely filled with a biphasic bioceramic, HA/ß-TCP (70:30) 500-1000 µm (Plenum) and covered by the same synthetic resorbable membrane. Connective tissue graft from the palatal area was positioned internally to the flap and stabilized with sutures to improve the vestibular tissue architecture. The entire surgical wound was sutured, and the tissues stabilized. No complications occurred in the postoperative period. Conclusion: The use of synthetic regenerative memberane and 3D-printed implants seems to be a promising option in areas of deficient bone remnants (AU)

Objetivo: Descrever por meio de um relato de caso clínico a sequência cirúrgica de reabilitação com implantes obtidos por impressão 3D associados à elevação do assoalho do seio maxilar com materiais regenerativos sintéticos, incluindo uma biocerâmica bifásica. Relato de Caso: Paciente apresentava agenesia dos pré-molares superiores esquerdos (24 e 25), deficiência óssea vertical causada pela pneumatização do seio maxilar e reabsorção alveolar horizontal ao redor da área dos dentes ausentes. Durante os procedimentos cirúrgicos foram realizados incisões, descolamento e osteotomia na região lateral do seio maxilar. A membrana sinusal foi descolada e elevada 10 mm. Em seguida, uma membrana reabsorvível sintética à base de poli(dioxanona) espessa (Plenum) foi inserida e adaptada dentro do seio para proteger a membrana do seio. Após as osteotomias com subinstrumentação, implantes impressos em 3D (Plenum) foram instalados na área do 24 (3,5mm x 11,5mm; 30N) e na área do 25 (4,0mm x 10mm; 20N). O seio maxilar foi inteiramente preenchido com biocerâmica bifásica, HA/ß-TCP (70:30)500-1000 µm (Plenum) e recoberto pela mesma membrana sintética reabsorvível. O tecido conjuntivo da região palatina foi posicionado internamente ao retalho e estabilizado com suturas para melhorar a arquitetura do tecido vestibular. Toda a ferida cirúrgica foi suturada e os tecidos estabilizados. Não ocorreram complicações no pós-operatório. Conclusão:A utilização de biomateriais regenerativos sintéticos e implantes impressos parece ser uma opção promissora em áreas de remanescentes ósseos deficientes.(AU)

Conservation threats and future prospects for the freshwater fishes of Ecuador: A hotspot of Neotropical fish diversity.

Freshwater fish communities in Ecuador exhibit some of the highest levels of diversity and endemism in the Neotropics. Unfortunately, aquatic ecosystems in the country are under serious threat and conditions are deteriorating. In 2018-19, the government of Ecuador sponsored a series of workshops to examine the conservation status of Ecuador's freshwater fishes. Concerns were identified for 35 species, most of which are native to the Amazon region, and overfishing of Amazonian pimelodid catfishes emerged as a major issue. However, much of the information needed to make decisions across fish groups and regions was not available, hindering the process and highlighting the need for a review of the conservation threats to Ecuador's freshwater fishes. Here, we review how the physical alteration of rivers, deforestation, wetland and floodplain degradation, agricultural and urban water pollution, mining, oil extraction, dams, overfishing, introduced species and climate change are affecting freshwater fishes in Ecuador. Although many of these factors affect fishes throughout the Neotropics, the lack of data on Ecuadorian fish communities is staggering and highlights the urgent need for more research. We also make recommendations, including the need for proper enforcement of existing environmental laws, restoration of degraded aquatic ecosystems, establishment of a national monitoring system for freshwater ecosystems, investment in research to fill gaps in knowledge, and encouragement of public engagement in citizen science and conservation efforts. Freshwater fishes are an important component of the cultural and biological legacy of the Ecuadorian people. Conserving them for future generations is critical.

Net survival for colorectal cancer in Cuiabá and Várzea Grande (state of Mato Grosso), Brazil.

In studies of cancer survival, Population-Based Cancer Registries (PBCRs) can provide an overview of the disease for places that have this source of information available. In Brazil, PBCR is officially available in 22 state capitals and 8 cities in the interior of the country. PBCR data from Cuiabá and Várzea Grande, state of Mato Grosso, in Midwestern Brazil, were used to estimate the survival rate of colon (C18), rectosigmoid junction (C19) and rectum (C20) cancer cases diagnosed in 2000-2009 according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision. Five-year survival rate was estimated by the unbiased and consistent net survival estimator, which is used in the country estimates of the global surveillance of cancer survival programme CONCORD Group, for all cases, and also by sex, age group, diagnosis period and place of residence. The probability of death and the number of years of life lost to illness were also estimated. The estimated standardised 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer was 45.46% (95% CI: 43.09%-47.96%) in the cities of Cuiabá and Várzea Grande. There was no difference between the curves when the survival rate was assessed by diagnostic period (2000-2004 and 2005-2009), sex, age group or city of residence. The gross 5-year probability of death from the disease was 51.2%, accounting for 6.4% of the gross probability of death from other causes, with 2.07 being the years of life lost to illness. The results obtained for Cuiabá and Várzea Grande are compatible with survival rates estimated for Brazil in the CONCORD study, but demonstrate the need to identify reasons why we continue to have low survival rates when compared to most countries involved in the global study mentioned. The results may reflect late diagnosis, difficult access and delays in starting treatment.

Changes in diversity and distribution of native fish due to the presence of two invasive species in the Atacames River, northwestern Ecuador / Cambios en diversidad y distribución de peces nativos por la presencia de dos especies invasoras en el río atacames, noroccidente del ecuador

RESUMEN La interpretación de la diversidad biológica puede resultar muy compleja, ya que existe una dinámica basada en el origen y en la diversificación de las especies, así como en los efectos antrópicos, tales como la introducción de especies invasoras, cuya consecuencia puede conducir a la extinción local de especies nativas. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la variación temporal (2012 y 2017), tanto en composición como en distribución de la ictiofauna a lo largo del río Atacames, noroccidente del Ecuador. En 2012 se registró: 1) la presencia de Astyanax ruberrimus que se extinguió localmente para el 2017; y 2) la presencia de la tilapia (Orechromis niloticus) como única especie introducida a la que se sumó el guppy (Poecilia gillii) para el 2017. Adicionalmente, el aumento en las actividades humanas condujo a un arreglo en la diversidad, abundancia y distribución de peces a lo largo del cauce, lo que determinó además que algunas especies se dispersaran hacia la zona alta de la cuenca.

ABSTRACT The interpretation of biological diversity can be very complex, as it exists a dynamic based on the origin and diversification of species, in addition to anthropogenic effects, such as the introduction of invasive species, which can result in the local extinction of the native ones. The aim of this study was to analyze the temporal variation (2012 and 2017), in composition and distribution of the ichthyofauna along the Atacames River in northwestern Ecuador. In 2012 we recorded: 1) the presence of Astyanax ruberrimus, which was reported locally extinct by 2017; and 2) the tilapia (Orechromis niloticus) as the only introduced fish species present until 2017, when the addition of the non-native guppy (Poeciliagillii) occurred . In addition, the increase in human activities conduced to change in diversity, abundance and distribution of fish along the watercourse, which resulted in dispersing of some species towards the upper reaches of the river basin.

Radiation exposure after myocardial perfusion imaging with Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride camera versus conventional camera.

BACKGROUND: Patient exposure to radiation during the management of coronary heart disease (CHD) can be reduced with more efficient technologies in nuclear medicine, such as the Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride (CZT) gamma-camera for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) studies. However, it has been suggested that CZT has lower specificity, which might lead to more downstream radiological procedures, particularly among obese individuals. METHODS AND RESULTS: We evaluated 244 patients with suspected CHD who underwent CZT-SPECT and matched 1:1 according to sex, age, and body mass index (BMI) with those undergoing MPI study with the Anger gamma-camera (Anger-SPECT). The outcome was the total radiation exposure from the MPI study added to the radiation exposure from all subsequent cardiac examinations during a 90-day follow-up. The total radiation dose after 90 days was significantly lower in the CZT-SPECT group (6.4 ± 4.8 vs 9.5±4.9 mSv, P < .001). After adjusting for potential confounders, CZT-SPECT remained associated with lower total radiation dose, but it significantly attenuated among obese individuals (Beta coefficient - 3.73 ± 0.86 for BMI < 30 vs - 2.30 ± 0.92 for BMI ≥ 30 Kg/m2, P for interaction < 0.032). CONCLUSIONS: CZT-SPECT was associated with lower total radiation doses compared to Anger-SPECT, albeit this benefit may be attenuated in obese individuals.

Efeito do envelhecimento hidrotérmico e mecânico na performance à fadiga de zircônias de alta translucidez / Effect of hydrothermal and mechanical aging on the fatigue performance of high-translucency zirconias

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a resistência à fadiga e ciclos até a falha de 3 zircônias odontológicas após envelhecimento hidrotérmico isolado e um novo protocolo alternado. Discos de zircônia "Y"Z T (VITA), INCORIS "T"ZI (Dentsply Sirona) e "K"ATANA UTML (Noritake Kuraray) (N=135) ­ 1ª, 2ª e 3ª gerações, respectivamente ­, foram divididos em 9 grupos (n=15), com 3 tratamentos para cada zircônia: CF ­ Controle, somente com fadiga mecânica; EF ­ Envelhecido em reator hidrotérmico a 134 ºC por 20 h + Fadiga; EFA: 4 passos de envelhecimentos de 5h alternados com fadiga. O teste de fadiga em flexão biaxial foi realizado com configuração de pistão sob 3 esferas, utilizando o método step-stress (carga inicial: 100 Mpa, step: 50 MPa/10.000 ciclos, frequência: 20 Hz). Os dados foram analisados através de teste Kaplan-Meir e Mantel-Cox com α=0,05, além da análise de Weibull. Discos fraturados foram analisados em estereomicroscópio, Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) e Difratômetro de Raios-X (DRX). O envelhecimento isolado com fadiga aumentou a resistência do grupo TEF (810 ± 76 MPa), enquanto diminuiu a do YEF (516 ± 38 MPa), o protocolo alternado aumentou a resistência apenas para a YZ T (730 ± 59 MPa). A KATANA UMTL não apresentou diferenças para ambos os tratamentos. Igualmente, foi a única a não sofrer transformação de fase T-M. O grupo TEF apresentou maior taxa sobrevivência à fadiga (147,000.00 ciclos). A origem de fratura para todos os espécimes deu-se no lado de tração em defeitos pré-existentes. Zircônias de 2ª geração possuem melhor comportamento mecânico e longevidade pós-envelhecimento e fadiga. Embora seja menos resistente, a KATANA UTML não sofreu degradação

This study aimed to evaluate the fatigue strength and cycles for failure of 3 dental zirconias after isolated and a novel hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue cycling aging protocol. "Y"Z T (VITA), INCORIS "T"ZI (Dentsply Sirona) and "K"ATANA UTML (Noritake Kuraray) zirconia discs (N=135), were divided into 9 groups (n=15), according to 3 proposed treatments for each zirconia: CF (control ­ only mechanical fatigue cycling); AF (aging in hydrothermal reactor at 134°C for 20 h + mechanical fatigue cycling ); AFA (Alternating protocol: 4 steps of 5 h of hydrothermal aging intercalated with mechanical fatigue cycling). Mechanical fatigue aging was performed according to the step stress approach through biaxial flexural setup (piston-on-3-balls, initial strength: 100 MPa, step: 50 MPa/ci000, frequency: 20 Hz) until failure. Data were analyzed using KaplanMeier and Mantel-Cox test (α=0.05), in addition to Weibull analysis. Fractured discs were analyzed in stereomicroscope, Scanning Electron Microscopy and XRay Diffraction. Continuous hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue cycling decreased the fatigue strength of YAF group (516 ± 38 MPa), while the alternating protocol increased it (730 ± 59 MPa). KATANA UTML showed no differences for both treatments and did not undergo T-M phase transformation. The TAF group showed the highest fatigue strength (810 ± 76 MPa) and cycles for failure (147,000.00 cycles). The fracture origin for all specimens was on the tensile side in pre-existing defects. INCORIS TZI zirconia have higher fatigue strength after hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue aging. Although less resistant, KATANA UTML did not suffer chemical degradation

Variación corporal paralela en peces de dos ríos costeros del Chocó ecuatoriano / Parallel body shape variation in fishes from two coastal rivers of the Ecuadorian Chocó

Introducción: Las diferencias morfológicas son el producto de la plasticidad fenotípica, la adaptación genética o la deriva genética, pero no siempre se requiere de poblaciones muy antiguas para conseguir adaptaciones locales si se presentan factores selectivos. Objetivo: Este trabajo examina la variación en la forma del cuerpo de peces en ríos costeros de baja altitud para determinar si existen patrones de variación morfológica entre especies y entre zonas a lo largo de estos cauces. Métodos: Desde julio 2016 a junio 2017 se realizaron una serie de muestreos ictiológicos que permitieron analizar la forma del cuerpo de tres especies, a lo largo de todo el cauce en dos ríos costeros del noroccidente ecuatoriano, con el uso de la morfometría geométrica y técnicas de análisis multivariante. Resultados: Se encontró un paralelismo en el cambio de la forma del cuerpo de las tres especies, desde la zona baja hacia la zona alta, caracterizado por una reducción en la profundidad del cuerpo. También encontramos diferentes niveles de variación alométrica en la forma del cuerpo de las tres especies. Conclusiones: Peces en estas cuencas presentan variación fenotípica influenciada por procesos ecológicos y evolutivos que se expresan en cambios paralelos en la forma del cuerpo en diferentes especies incluso en ríos que tienen rangos de altitud muy pequeños, resaltando la importancia que tienen estas cuencas como reservorios del legado evolutivo de la fauna y flora neotropical.

Introduction: Morphological differences are the product of phenotypic plasticity, genetic adaptation or genetic drift, but very old populations are not always required for local adaptation if selective factors are present. Objective: This paper examines the variation in fish body shape in low-altitude coastal rivers to determine if there are common patterns of morphological variation among species and along the course of the watersheds. Methods: From July 2016 to June 2017, a series of ichthyologic samples were collected to analyze the body shape of three species along the entire watercourse of two coastal rivers in Northwestern Ecuador, using geometric morphometrics and multivariate analysis techniques. Results: A parallel change in body shape was found from the lower zone to the upper zone in the three species, characterized by a decrease in body depth. We also found varying levels of allometric variation in the body shape of the three species. Conclusions: Different fish species in these watersheds exhibit parallel changes in body shape along the watercourse that are influenced by ecological and evolutionary processes even though these rivers vary little in altitude, highlighting the importance of these basins as reservoirs of the evolutionary legacy of the fauna and flora in the Neotropics.

Key words: morphological parallelism; allometry; geometric morphometrics; Neotropics

Ceramic firing protocols and thermocycling: effects on the load-bearing capacity under fatigue of a bonded zirconia lithium silicate glass-ceramic.

This study evaluated the effect of different firing processes (without firing, additional crystallization and glaze firing) and thermal-cycling (with or without) on the fatigue behavior of simplified zirconia-lithium silicate (ZLS) glass ceramic restorations cemented to a dentin-like material. Materials and Methods. One hundred twenty-nine (129) discs (diameter = 12 mm and thickness = 1.2 mm) of ZLS (Celtra Duo, Dentsply Sirona) and fiber-reinforced epoxy resin (diameter = 12 mm and thickness = 2.3 mm) were produced and tested under fatigue according to 2 study factors: a firing protocol with 3 levels (without firing, additional crystallization and glaze firing) and thermocycling of 2 levels (absence/presence), composing 6 study groups. Ceramic and epoxy resin discs had their surfaces treated and adhesive cementation was performed (Multilink N, Ivoclar). Half of the samples were immediately tested; the other half were subjected to thermal-cycling (10,000 cycles in water; 5-55 °C). The staircase method determined the fatigue failure load (100,000 cycles at a frequency of 20 Hz). The fatigue data (in N) were submitted to 2-way ANOVA and Bonferroni test (p < 0.05). Fractographic analyses were also carried out. Thermocycling decreased the fatigue failure load (FFL) of all groups when compared to those without aging. Bonferroni's test indicated that the groups with crystallization/glazing process behaved better in terms of FFL than those without firing in the same storage condition. All the samples had radial cracks and all fractures originated from defects on the cementation surface of the ceramic discs. Crystallization and glaze firing had a positive effect on the fatigue failure load of adhesively cemented ZLS glass ceramic compared to the group without crystallization firing, in both storage conditions (with or without thermocycling).

Efectos de la especie invasora Poecilia gillii(Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) sobre Pseudopoecilia fria en ríos costeros de la región del Chocó, Ecuador

Una de las causas que aportan a la disminución de la biodiversidad es la introducción de especies exóticas que muchas veces terminan siendo invasoras, y por lo tanto terminan compitiendo con especies locales. Esta competencia no siempre es equitativa ya que las especies invasoras comúnmente cuentan con ventajas adaptativas que le otorgan beneficios ante las especies locales. Este estudio realizado en microcuencas del noroccidente del Ecuador identifica los efectos de la reciente presencia de Poecilia gillii sobre la especie nativa Pseudopoecilia fria; mediante un análisis poblacional (distribución longitudinal, parámetros de crecimiento y morfometría). Los resultados muestran un desplazamiento de P. fria hacia la parte alta del río, un aceleramiento en su crecimiento y por lo tanto una madurez anticipada con la consecuente disminución del tamaño corporal y finalmente un cambio en el alto del cuerpo con deslizamiento posterior de la aleta pectoral.

One of the causes contributing to the decrease of biodiversity is the introduction of exotic species that often end up being invasive, and end up competing with local species. This competition is not always "fair" since invaders commonly have adaptive advantages that give them an advantage over local species. This study was carried out in small watersheds in northwestern Ecuador and identifies the effects of the recent introduction of P. gillii on the native species P. fria; using population analysis (longitudinal distribution, growth parameters and morphometry). The results show a displacement of P. fria towards the upper part of the river, acceleration in its growth and therefore an earlier sexual maturity with a consequent decrease in body size and finally a change in body depth with posterior displacement of the pectoral fin.

Degradation kinetics of high-translucency dental zirconias: Mechanical properties and in-depth analysis of phase transformation.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of low temperature degradation (LTD) on commercial dental zirconias (conventional and high-translucent - HT) with different microstructures, as well as on their mechanical properties and t-m phase transformation. The amount of monoclinic zirconia in different depths was quantified using X-ray diffraction (XRD) with different anode tubes (Cr, Co and Cu). XRD was also used to measure the residual stress of the materials at 0 h, 26 h and 140 h aging times. Vickers microhardness and biaxial flexural strength tests were performed. Data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test, both with α = 0.05 for means comparisons. Weibull parameters were calculated and compared based on the overlapping of confidence intervals (CI = 95%). HT Zirconia presented smaller grain sizes and had a higher rate of t-m transformation over time. The microstructure of the conventional zirconia showed an expressive increase of the grain size and consequently greater morphological variation with the LTD. The non-aged samples (control) did not present any residual stress and the aged ones presented compression stress. All zirconia showed a residual stress increase with the increase of LTD time, but the conventional one showed a decrease after 140 h. HT zirconia showed no significant change in flexural strength over LTD time, but the conventional one showed a strength decrease after 140 h (681.78 ±â€¯121.18 MPa). Vickers hardness decreased for all zirconia samples after 26 h. The mechanics of LTD is significantly altered in different zirconia microstructures. Zirconias with smaller grains are more prone to t-m phase transformation, but present lower variation of residual stress, while larger grains zirconias have a lower surface area and therefore a more pronounced increase in stress over LTD time. Stress values close to the maximum compression stress generates ejection of the zirconia grains, producing defects and causing reduction of the compression stress and consequently decrease of flexural strength.