Spinocerebellar ataxia: functional analysis of the stomatognathic system

Background Neurodegenerative diseases that affect the cerebellum, especially in elderly individuals, cause impairment of motor coordination and quality of life. The presente study evaluated the electromyographic activity and thickness of the right and left masseter and temporal muscles, and the maximum molar bite force of individuals with spinocerebellar ataxia. Material and Methods Twenty-eight individuals were divided into two groups: those with (n=14) and without (n=14) spinocerebellar ataxia. Data on the masticatory muscles obtained from the electromyographic activity (resting, right and left laterality and protrusion), muscle thickness (maximal voluntary contraction and tensile strengt…

Role of Electrical Charges on the Adsorption of Hydrogen: Something Old, Something New

When less is more: more cations means more adsorption sites for toluene in zeolites?

The unique properties of zeolites makes them an interesting material to be used in separation processes. The possibility of tailoring some of their characteristics, like the Si/Al ratio, allows to optimize their synthesis for a given task. Concerning the adsorption of toluene by faujasites, an understanding of the effect of cations is necessary to foster the elaboration of new materials, which can capture molecules from humid environments with a high selectivity and sensibility. Undoubtedly, this knowledge is relevant for a wide range of applications going from the elaboration of technologies for improving the air-quality to the elaboration of diagnostic procedures to prevent health risks. …