Abstract Patients who are candidates for a second kidney transplant (SKT) frequently have a higher level of panel reactive antibodies (PRA). We assessed the allosensitisation change after a first graft failure (GF), its predictors and impact on retransplantat outcomes. We retrospectively selected 140 adult patients who received a SKT. Recipient and donor characteristics were analyzed. We defined the delta PRA (dPRA) as the difference between peak PRA before the SKT and first one (cohort median value = +10%). Logistic regression analysis was used to determine risk factors for dPRA ≥ 10% and acute rejection (AR) in the SKT. Univariable and multivariable Cox analysis was applied to assess independent predictors of second GF. Risk factors for dPRA ≥ 10% at SKT were AR (OR = 2.57; P = 0.022), first graft survival <1 year (OR = 2.47; P = 0.030) and ABDR HLA mismatch (OR = 1.38 per each mismatch; P = 0.038). AR in the SKT was associated with dPRA ≥ 10% (OR = 2.79; P = 0.047). Induction with a lymphocyte-depleting agent had a protective effect (OR = 0.23; P = 0.010). SKT survival was lower (P = 0.008) in patients with a dPRA ≥ 10% (75.6%, 60.5% in dPRA ≥ 10%; 88.6%, 88.6% in dPRA < 10% patients at 5 and 10 years, post-transplant respectively). Multivariable Cox regression showed that dPRA ≥ 10% (HR = 2.38, P = 0.042), delayed graft function (HR = 2.82, P = 0.006) and AR (HR = 3.30, P = 0.001) in the SKT were independent predictors of retransplant failure. This study shows that an increased allosensitisation at retransplant was associated with the degree of HLA mismatch and led to poorer outcomes. De-emphasis of HLA matching in current allocation policies may be undesirable, particularly in patients with a higher chance of needing a SKT.

Resumen Los pacientes candidatos a un segundo trasplante de riñón (STR) tienen a menudo un nivel superior de panel reactivo de anticuerpos (PRA). Evaluamos el cambio de alosensibilización después de un primer fracaso del injerto, sus predictores y repercusión en los resultados del retrasplante. Elegimos retrospectivamente a 140 pacientes adultos que recibieron un STR. Analizamos las características de los receptores y de los donantes. Definimos el delta PRA (dPRA) como la diferencia entre el pico de PRA antes del STR y el primero (cohorte mediana = +10%). Se aplicó análisis de regresión logística para determinar los factores de riesgo para dPRA ≥ 10% y rechazo agudo (RA) en STR y análisis univariado y multivariado de Cox para evaluar predictores independientes de fallo del retrasplante. Los factores de riesgo para dPRA ≥ 10% fueron: RA (OR = 2,57; p = 0,022), supervivencia del primero injerto menor a un año (OR = 2,47; p = 0,030) e incompatibilidad HLA ABDR (OR = 1,38 por cada mismatch; p = 0,038). El RA en el STR fue asociado con dPRA ≥ 10% (OR = 2,79; p = 0,047). La inducción con un agente depletor de linfocitos tuvo un efecto protector (OR = 0,23; p = 0,010). La supervivencia del STR fue menor en pacientes con dPRA ≥ 10% (75,6; 60,5% en dPRA ≥ 1 0%; y 88,6; 88,6% en dPRA < 10%; a los 5 y 10 años). La regresión multivariada de Cox mostró que dPRA ≥ 10% (HR = 2,38; p = 0,042), función retardada de injerto (HR = 2,82; p = 0.006) y RA (HR = 3,30; p = 0,001) en STR fueron factores predictores independientes de fracaso en el retrasplante. Este estudio muestra que un incremento en la alosensibilización de retrasplante se ha asociado con el grado de incompatibilidad HLA y puede conducir a resultados más pobres en STR. La falta de énfasis en la compatibilidad de HLA en las políticas actuales de asignación puede no ser deseable, especialmente en pacientes con una mayor probabilidad de necesitar un STR.

RESUMO Sistemas óticos são reconhecidos como uma importante ferramenta para a monitorização estrutural, especialmente para avaliação da segurança em tempo real, devido a configuração simplificada e o baixo custo destes sistemas quando comparado com sistemas usuais, nomeadamente sistemas elétricos. Este trabalho tem por objetivo apresentar um caso de estudo sobre monitorização estrutural focado na avaliação da fiabilidade através da utilização de um sistema sensorial ótico simplificado. Dessa forma, um reservatório elevado de água de concreto armado foi instrumentado com um acelerómetro ótico biaxial e monitorado desde janeiro de 2014. Tendo em conta os dados de aceleração, as frequências naturais e os deslocamentos relativos foram calculados. Neste trabalho, a análise de fiabilidade é realizada baseada na distribuição de valores extremos e os resultados obtidos são ainda utilizados para a predição sobre a segurança estrutural do reservatório de água para os próximos 100 anos. Os resultados mostraram que o sistema ótico de monitorização implementado neste trabalho combinado com a análise por distribuição dos valores extremos pode fornecer dados adequados para a avaliação da fiabilidade estrutural.

ABSTRACT Optical systems are recognized to be an important tool for structural health monitoring, especially for real time safety assessment, due to simplified system configuration and low cost when compared to regular systems, namely electrical systems. This work aims to present a case study on structural health monitoring focused on reliability assessment and applying data collected by a simplified optical sensing system. This way, an elevated reinforced concrete water reservoir was instrumented with a bi-axial optical accelerometer and monitored since January 2014. Taking into account acceleration data, the natural frequencies and relative displacements were estimated. The reliability analysis was performed based on generalized extreme values distribution (GEV) and the results were employed to build a forecast of the reliability of the water elevated reservoir for the next 100 years. The results showed that the optical system combined with GEV analysis, implemented in this experimental work, can provide adequate data for structural reliability assessment.

Introdução: A insuficiência renal crónica terminal está associada a numerosas comorbilidades e a um aumento do risco de mortalidade cerca de 30 vezes superior à população pediátrica geral. O primeiro transplante renal bem sucedido em crianças foi realizado em 1954. Os progressos cirúrgicos e as novas terapêuticas imunossupressoras aumentaram a sobrevida dos doentes e do enxerto renal nos últimos anos. Objectivos: Avaliação da experiência em transplantação renal em idade pediátrica do Centro Hospitalar do Porto nos últimos 30 anos. Métodos: Estudo retrospetivo dos dados epidemiológicos e clínicos dos doentes pediátricos transplantados entre Janeiro de 1984 e Agosto 2013. Foi feita a análise da evolução temporal da atividade de transplantação através da comparação da sobrevida do enxerto por décadas de transplantação (1984-89 / 1990-99 / 2000-09 / 2010-13). Foi também comparada a sobrevida do enxerto em dois grupos etários (0-10 anos ; 11-17 anos) à data da transplantação. Resultados: Cento e trinta e nove doentes (58.3% - sexo masculino) foram submetidos a 147 transplantes renais (6.8% de dador vivo). As anomalias congénitas do rim e trato urinário (56.5%) e as glomerulonefrites (18.4%) foram as causas principais de insuficiência renal. A sobrevida do enxerto não censurada aos 5, 10, 15 e 20 anos foi 84.7%, 71.1%, 60.0% e 51.0% e a sobrevida do doente aos 5, 10, 15 e 20 anos foi 97.9%, 95.9%, 94.7% e 94.7%, respetivamente. A sobrevida do enxerto aumentou ao longo do tempo e a diferença entre as décadas foi estatisticamente significativa (p=0.004). Apesar da melhor sobrevida no grupo com idade superior a 11 anos, a diferença da sobrevida do enxerto entre os grupos etários não foi estatisticamente significativa (p=0.697). Conclusão: Os resultados do Centro Hospitalar do Porto são comparáveis aos dos grandes centros de transplantação renal pediátrica. Observou-se uma melhoria dos resultados ao longo dos anos na nossa Unidade. A existência de um rigoroso processo de acompanhamento poderá ter ajudado a minimizar o impacto negativo da adolescência na sobrevida do enxerto.

Introduction: End-stage renal disease in children is associated with numerous comorbidities and with age-specific mortality rates approximately 30 times higher than in healthy children. The first kidney transplantation in children was performed successfully in 1954. Surgical advances and new immunosuppressive medications have greatly improved patient’s and graft’s survival in the last years. Aim: Report Centro Hospitalar do Porto experience in pediatric renal transplantation in the last 30 years. Methods: Epidemiological and clinical data of all patients younger than 18 years, transplanted between January 1984 and August 2013, were collected from our database. In order to analyze the transplantation outcome in our center we compare graft survival between decades (1984-89 / 1990-99 / 2000-09 / 2010-13). We also compare graft survival between two age groups of patients (0-10 years ; 11-17 years) at the time of surgery. Results: One hundred thirty-nine patients (58.3% male) underwent 147 renal transplants (6.8% live donors). Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (56.5%) and glomerulonephritis (18.4%) were the major causes of renal disease. Uncensored graft survivals rates at 5, 10, 15 and 20 years were 84.7%, 71.1%, 60.0% and 51.0%, while patient survivals were 97.9%, 95.9%, 94.7% and 94.7% respectively. Graft survival improved over time and the difference between the decades was statistically significant (p=0.004). Despite the better survival in the group of patients older than 11 years, graft’s survival difference between the two age groups was not statistically significant (p=0.697). Conclusion: The results of our hospital are comparable to other international centers. Significant improvement in survival was observed over the time. It seems that an accurate follow-up of our patients helps to minimize the negative impact of adolescence on graft survival rates.

As infeções nosocomiais são uma realidade constante no ambiente hospitalar. São responsáveis por um elevado número de casos de infeções e são notoriamente difíceis de erradicar. Um dos motivos pelos quais o tratamento das infeções nosocomiais é difícil deve-se ao facto de muitas destas infeções serem causadas por biofilmes microbianos. Os biofilmes podem ser definidos como comunidades de micro-organismos que vivem aderidos a uma superfície e envoltos numa complexa mistura de compostos tais como proteínas, polissacáridos e DNA extracelular. O crescimento de micro-organismos sob a forma de biofilmes dificulta a sua erradicação, pois estas estruturas podem ser consideradas adaptações dos micro-organismos, de forma a continuar no hospedeiro. É especialmente relevante ter em consideração as infeções causadas por biofilmes no contexto hospitalar, pois podem necessitar de abordagens diferentes para a sua erradicação. Este artigo de revisão tem como objetivo reunir o conhecimento existente do papel dos biofilmes microbianos nas infeções nosocomiais.

Nowadays nosocomial infections are a reality in all hospital environments. They are the cause of a high number of infections, morbidity and mortality, and are recognised as being notoriously difficult to eradicate. One of the reasons for the problems in the treatment of nosocomial infection is the fact that many of the pathogens involved in this infections form biofilms. Biofilms are normally defined as communities of microorganisms adhered to a surface and surrounded by a polymeric matrix of extracellular components, such as proteins, polysaccharides and e DNA. The growth of microorganisms in biofilms makes their eradication difficult as this type of growth can be considered an adaptation of the pathogens in order to improve their persistence in the host. As such it is of special interest to account for the role of biofilms in nosocomial infections so that the appropriate approach can be taken in order to eradicate them. The aim of this article is to review the existing information on the prevalence of nosocomial infections potentially caused by biofilms.

In this work, the process of capsular polysaccharide production by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C was studied. Batch experimental runs were conducted in a set of one-liter bioreactors with 0.5 L of Frantz cultivation medium. Cultivation temperature and pH were controlled at optimal pre-established values. The dynamic behavior of the bacteria was analyzed based on biomass growth, glucose uptake, polysaccharide production and dissolved oxygen time profile obtained in a set of experimental runs with initial concentrations of glucose that varied from 5 to 13.5 g/L. Formulated hypotheses were then employed in the construction of a phenomenological model of the bioprocess under study that successfully described the dynamic behavior of the system and can be used in future control and optimization of the industrial process of capsular polysaccharide production.

We report an investigation of the optical absorption spectrum, using non-polarized light, in Pb xEu1-xTe, x=0 and x=0.095, epitaxial thick layers grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The absorption edge is described by a broad band, due to the electronic transitions from the 4f7 of Eu2+ to the states in 4f6 5d configuration, as seen previously in bulk Eu chalcogenides. When a magnetic field is applied, a narrow absorption band (full width ~50 meV) emerges from the broad one. The energy of this absorption peak red shifts when the magnetic field increases, and reaches saturation when the Eu2+ attain ferromagnetic arrangement. This behaviour can be described by a localized excitation model with d - f exchange interaction.

Miniband charge transport was investigated by Monte Carlo simulations of electronic motion in short period superlattices of type-II energy band alignment (InAs/GaSb composition). The strong decrease of the miniband energy width when the electronic in-plane energy increases, characteristic of type-II superlattices, leads to a conductivity that is very sensitive to a magnetic field applied parallel to the axis of the superlattice. For structures with a miniband energy width greater than the optic phonon energy, the differential conductance can be changed from positive to negative by the magnetic field, due to the suppression of optic phonon emission.

Plantas da família Amaryllidaceae são caracterizadas pela presença de alcalóides isoquinolínicos. Desde o primeiro estudo envolvendo alcalóides desta família em 1877, um grande número destas plantas tem sido analisado quimicamente. Estes compostos apresentam uma ampla variedade de atividades biológicas, tais como: antiviral, citotóxica, antitumoral e analgésica. Neste trabalho, foram avaliados o perfil cromatográfico e a potencial atividade antiviral das frações diclorometano A e B, isoladas dos diferentes órgãos vegetais (bulbos, raízes, folhas e flores) de Hippeastrum glaucescens (Martius) Herbert, assim como dos alcalóides licorina, tazetina e pretazetina, previamente isolados desta planta. A extração dos alcalóides de H. glaucescens foi realizada por métodos clássicos, a partir de bulbos, raízes, folhas e flores fornecendo rendimentos totais em alcalóides de 0,53%; 0,81%; 0,29% e 0,12%, respectivamente. Empregando-se cromatografia em camada delgada, verificou-se que os bulbos e as raízes apresentam perfis cromatográficos semelhantes e que os alcalóides licorina, tazetina e pretazetina estão presentes em todas as partes testadas do vegetal. As frações diclorometano A e B, de cada órgão vegetal, e os alcalóides isolados (licorina, tazetina e pretazetina) não inibiram a replicação do herpesvírus simples humano tipo 1 (HSV-1) cepa KOS, quando avaliados através do método de inibição do efeito citopático viral.

Plants of Amaryllidaceae are characterized by isoquinoline alkaloids. Since the first study with Amaryllidaceae alkaloids in 1877, a large number of these plants have been chemically investigated. These compounds have shown a wide range of biological activities such as: antiviral, cytotoxic, antitumoral and analgesic. In this work, the dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) extracts obtained from different parts of the Hippeastrum glaucescens (Martius) Herbert (bulbs, roots, leaves and flowers) and the isolated alkaloids lycorine, tazettine and pretazettine were analyzed by a chromatographic method (TLC) and tested for antiviral activity. The extraction of alkaloids from bulbs, roots, leaves and flowers of H. glaucescens was performed by classic methods and yields 0.53%, 0.81%, 0.29% and 0.12%, respectively. Through TLC, bulbs and roots revealed similar chromatographic profiles and lycorine, tazettine and pretazettine were found in all the parts analyzed. The CH2Cl2-A and CH2Cl2-B extracts from each part of the plant and the isolated alkaloids (lycorine, tazettine and pretazettine) did not inhibit the HSV-1 strain KOS replication, when evaluated through the inhibition of cytophatic viral effect.

GaAs/AlGaAs multiple quantum well structures containing an nipi delta-doping superlattice, where the n-type doping is inserted in the quantum wells and the p-type in the barriers, have been studied in detail to evaluate their potential for use in the fabrication of amplitude modulators. It is shown that C is an adequate p-type dopant for such structures, however, little exibility is found in the growth conditions, in particular for the V to III uxes ratio, for obtaining such layers. It is also observed that the required balance between n and p type doping levels is not trivial to be achieved due to the presence of interface hole traps whose population depends on the quantum well doping concentration. In addition, the observed photoluminescence near-edge emission at room temperature occurs at essentially the same energy as that of an equivalent undoped structure. Finally, no deep level emissions are observed which could deteriorate the device performance.

The interfaces in InP=In0.53 Ga0.47As superlattices modulation doped with Si were investigated using magneto-transport, capacitance-voltage, and high resolution X-ray diffraction measurements. Results indicate that a thick interfacial layer is formed when InP is grown on top of In xGa1-xAs, and that Si atoms that fall in the interfacial layer have a high probability of not forming a shallow donor center. Using a simple theoretical model the width of the interfacial layer which was estimated to be 7±1 monolayers.

The authors review environmental and neurodevelopmental risk factors for schizophrenic disorders, with emphasis on minor physical anomalies, particularly craniofacial anomalies and dermatoglyphic variations. The high prevalence of these anomalies among schizophrenic subjects supports the neurodevelopmental theory of the etiology of schizophrenia, since they suggest either genetically or epigenetically controlled faulty embryonic development of structures of ectodermal origin like brain and skin. This may disturb neurodevelopment that in turn may cause these subjects to be at increased risk for the development of schizophrenia and related disorders. The precise confirmation of this theory, at least in some cases, will provide further understanding of these illnesses, allowing easy and inexpensive identification of subjects at risk and providing guidelines for the development of new pharmacological interventions for early treatment and even for primary prevention of the illness.

The optimization problem of a fed-batch alcoholic fermentation by Zymomonas mobilis, solved using Pontryagin's maximum principle and the singular control theory, is used to discuss the main challenges that usually arise during the implementation of optimal strategies. For each problem a practical solution is proposed. In order to solve the optimization problem, a hybrid neural model is developed using experimental data from batch and fed-batch fermentations. The calculated optimal solution is experimentally implemented in open-loop scheme.

43 espécies e 3 "variedades" (sensu Fairchild) de mutucas (Diptera: Tabanidae) foram coletadas na Ilha de Maracá e na Serra de Pacaraima, Roraima, Brasil, fronteira com a Venezuela. Fidena schildi (Hine). Esenbeckia prasiniventris (Macquart) e Tabanus unimacula (Kroeber) são registradas pela primeira vez no Brasil e duas espécies novas são descritas: Catachlorops bindai e Stypomnisa vidali. O macho de Tabanus sannio Fairchild é descrito. Alguns dados ecológicos são apresentados.

43 species and 3 "varieties" (sensu Fairchild) of horseflies (Diptera: Tabanidae) were collected in Maracá Island and in the Pacaraima hills, Roraima, Brazil. Fidena schildi (Hine), Esenbeckia prasiniventris (Macquart) and Tabanus unimacula (Kroeber) are registered for the first time in Brazil and two new species are described: Catachlorops bindai and Stypomnisa vidali. The male of Tabanus sannio Fairchild ir described. Some ecological data are presented.