bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in negative predictive value of prostate MRI based in men with suspected or known cancer
Authors: Baghdanian Armonde A. , Kim Yoon-Jin , Baghdanian Arthur H. , Nguyen Hao N. , Shinohara Katsuto , Westphalen Antonio C.
Published: August 2019

Abstract Objective: To compare the negative predictive value (NPV) of multiparametric MRI for Gleason score (GS) ≥ 3+4 cancer and evaluate predictors of these tumors in men with suspected disease and under active surveillance (AS). Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 38 men with suspected prostate cancer and 38 under AS with scans assigned PI-RADS v2 scores 1 or 2 between May 2016 and September 2017. Biopsy results were no cancer, GS = 3+3, or GS ≥ 3+4. Pre-MRI PSA, gland volume, and PSA density were recorded. Chi-square, equality of proportions, and logistic regressions were used to analyze the data. Results: Intermediate to high-grade cancer was found in 12.8% (95% CI = 2.3-23.3) and 35.9% (95% CI = 20.8-50.9) of men with suspected cancer, and under AS (p = 0.02), respectively. The NPV for GS ≥ 3+4 were 87.2% (suspected cancer; 76.7-97.7) and 64.1% (AS; 49.0-79.2). In neither group PSA significantly predicted cancer grade (p = 0.75 and 0.63). Although it did not reach conventional statistical significance, PSA density was a good predictor of cancer grade in men with suspected disease (p = 0.06), but not under AS (p = 0.62). Conclusion: The NPV of multiparametric MRI for GS ≥ 3+4 is higher in men with suspected prostate cancer than in men under AS. PSA density ≤ 0.15 improved the prediction of intermediate to high-grade disease in patients without known cancer.
Percutaneous nephrostomy versus antegrade double-J stent placement in the treatment of malignant obstructive uropathy: a cost-effectiveness analysis from the perspective of the Brazilian public health care system
Authors: Tibana Tiago Kojun , Grubert Renata Motta , Santos Rômulo Florêncio Tristão , Fornazari Vinicius Adami Vayego , Domingos André Alonso , Reis William Tavares , Marchiori Edson , Nunes Thiago Franchi
Published: August 2019

Abstract Objective: To compare two percutaneous techniques used in the treatment of malignant obstructive uropathy-antegrade double-J stent placement (JJ stenting) and percutaneous nephrostomy-in terms of their cost-effectiveness, from the perspective of the Brazilian public health care system. Materials and Methods: In this cost-effectiveness analysis, we employed decision-analytic modeling. We calculated material costs from 2017 factory prices listed by the Brazilian Pharmaceutical Market Regulatory Board (for medications) and published in the journal Revista Simpro (for medical devices). Procedure-related costs were evaluated, as were the rates of technical and clinical success. Those measures were then used as inputs for a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing the two procedures. Results: The sample comprised 41 patients, of whom 16 underwent antegrade JJ stenting (26 procedures) and 10 underwent percutaneous nephrostomy (15 procedures). Patient records, radiology reports, and expense reports of the interventional radiology department of the public hospital where the study was conducted were analyzed retrospectively. There were no significant complications: one patient had low back pain, and one had a transient retroperitoneal hematoma. The mean procedure time was 24 min, and clinical success (improvement in serum creatinine and resolution of hydronephrosis) was achieved in 97.5% of the cases. The average cost of JJ stenting was significantly lower than was that of percutaneous nephrostomy (US$164.10 vs. US$552.20). Conclusion: In the absence of any clinical contraindications, antegrade JJ stenting is a suitable alternative to both percutaneous nephrostomy and retrograde stenting in patients with dilated renal collecting systems secondary to malignant ureteral obstruction, providing significant cost savings and high success rates.
Accuracy of breast magnetic resonance imaging in evaluating the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy: a study of 310 cases at a cancer center
Authors: Negrão Erika Marina Solla , Bitencourt Almir Galvão Vieira , Souza Juliana Alves de , Marques Elvira Ferreira
Published: August 2019

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breasts in the identification of a pathological complete response in patients with breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Materials and Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study designed to validate a diagnostic test. The following variables were evaluated: age; results of the histological and immunohistochemical analysis of the biopsy; post-NAC MRI findings; and results of the histological analysis of the surgical specimen, using the residual cancer burden index. The radiological response, as assessed by MRI, was compared with the pathological response, as assessed by histological analysis of the surgical specimen (the gold standard method). Results: We evaluated 310 tumors in 308 patients. The mean age of the patients was 47 years (range, 27-85 years). For identifying a pathological complete response, breast MRI had an overall accuracy of 79%, with a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 83%, positive predictive value of 75%, and negative predictive value of 83%. When that accuracy was stratified by molecular subtype, it was best for the HER2 subtype, with a sensitivity and specificity of 82% and 89%, respectively, followed by the triple-negative subtype, with a sensitivity and specificity of 78% and 83%, respectively. Conclusion: Breast MRI showed good accuracy in the prediction of a pathological complete response after NAC. The sensitivity and positive predictive value were highest for the HER2 and triple-negative subtypes.
A reforma da atenção primária à saúde em Portugal, 2005-2018: o futuro e os desafios da maturidade
Authors: Lapão Luís Velez , Pisco Luís
Published: August 2019

Resumo: Com o intuito de reformar a atenção primária à saúde (APS), o Ministério da Saúde planejou uma mudança que teve o seu avanço no período entre 2005 e 2006, e que se desenvolve até aos nossos dias. O objetivo deste artigo é enquadrar a reforma da APS em Portugal por diferentes fases de desenvolvimento, utilizando o modelo de fluxos múltiplos de Kingdon para refletir sobre a evolução do processo reformador e o seu futuro, na perspetiva do processo que busca alcançar o acesso universal à saúde. Como metodologia de trabalho, utiliza-se o estudo documental e de caso, de orientação qualitativa e com dimensões avaliativas. O estudo baseou-se em material publicado, nacional e internacionalmente, sobre a APS em Portugal. O modelo de fluxos múltiplos de Kingdon é utilizado para explicar o desenvolvimento concreto e contextual das políticas iniciadas durante a reforma da APS. Foram identificadas três fases da reforma, cada uma com duração de cerca de 5 anos: na primeira, a partir de 2005, surgiram as unidades de saúde familiar de constituição voluntária. Na segunda fase, iniciada em 2010, houve a consolidação do modelo. Em uma terceira fase, desde 2015 e que ainda acontece, há o amadurecimento do modelo, aproveitando o final da crise financeira, mas ainda suportando as suas sequelas. Os três ciclos de reforma representam três períodos distintos de coerência da coalizão que o empreendedor político foi capaz de estabelecer, cujas janelas de oportunidade para a mudança, internamente construídas, foram sobejamente influenciadas por fatores externos. Assinala-se a contribuição que a reforma da APS deu para a melhoria do estado de saúde da população portuguesa.
Avaliação de desempenho da regionalização da vigilância em saúde em seis Regiões de Saúde brasileiras
Authors: Albuquerque Ana Coelho de , Cesse Eduarda Ângela Pessoa , Felisberto Eronildo , Samico Isabella Chagas , Frias Paulo Germano de
Published: August 2019

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho da regionalização da vigilância em saúde em seis Regiões de Saúde com diferentes níveis de desenvolvimento no Brasil. Adotou-se uma abordagem quantitativa transversal e os dados foram coletados utilizando-se um questionário estruturado, elaborado com base nas três dimensões da pesquisa (Política, Estrutura e Organização), aplicado a 31 atores-chave da vigilância em saúde das Regiões de Saúde e dos municípios selecionados. Utilizou-se, como tendência central, o escore médio, e para cada dimensão e atributo foram construídos índices sintéticos. Atribuíram-se três pontos de corte para avaliação do desempenho: valores iguais ou abaixo de 4,99 foram considerados insatisfatórios; entre 5,00 e 6,99, intermediários; e iguais ou acima de 7,00, satisfatórios. O estudo evidenciou que o desempenho da regionalização da vigilância em saúde foi considerado satisfatório apenas em uma região, intermediário em quatro e insatisfatório também em uma. Entre as três dimensões, os melhores desempenhos foram da Política e da Organização, e o mais frágil, da Estrutura. Conclui-se que, em geral, quanto maior o nível de desenvolvimento socioeconômico e da oferta de serviços, melhor o desempenho da regionalização da vigilância em saúde. A avaliação apresentada retrata a complexidade de contextos de diferentes regiões brasileiras, o que contribui para o entendimento da dinâmica da regionalização da vigilância em saúde no país.
Fetal, neonatal, and post-neonatal mortality in the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort and associated factors
Authors: Varela Andrea Ramirez , Schneider Bruna Celestino , Bubach Susana , Silveira Mariangela Freitas , Bertoldi Andréa Dâmaso , Duarte Lina Sofia Moron , Menezes Ana Maria B. , Domingues Marlos R. , Bassani Diego G.
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to describe fetal, neonatal, and post-neonatal mortality and associated factors in participants of the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort. The child mortality sub-study followed up all deaths in the first year of life. Data were collected on intrauterine fetal deaths (weight ≥ 500g and/or gestational age ≥ 20 weeks), neonatal deaths (< 28 days of life), and post-neonatal deaths (from 28 days to the end of the first year of life). Descriptive analyses using the Pearson chi-square test and a multinomial logistic regression to estimate the risk of fetal, neonatal, and post-neonatal deaths compared to live infants in the cohort (reference group) were performed. Data from 4,329 eligible births were collected, of which 54 died during the fetal period. Of the 4,275 eligible live births, 59 died in the first year of life. An association between fetal, neonatal, and post-neonatal deaths (OR = 15.60, 7.63, and 5.51 respectively) was found, as well as less than six prenatal consultations. Compared to live infants, fetal deaths were more likely to occur in non-white mothers, and neonatal deaths were 14.09 times more likely to occur in a preterm gestational age (< 37 weeks). Compared to live infants, infants that were born in a C-section delivery had 3.71 increased odds of post-neonatal death. Additionally, neonatal deaths were 102.37 times more likely to have a low Apgar score on the fifth minute after birth. These findings show the need for early interventions during pregnancy, ensuring access to adequate prenatal care.
Fatores associados à hipotensão ortostática em adultos: estudo ELSA-Brasil
Authors: Velten Ana Paula Costa , Benseñor Isabela , Souza Juliana Bottoni de , Mill José Geraldo
Published: August 2019

Resumo: O objetivo foi investigar os fatores associados à presença de hipotensão ortostática em 14.833 indivíduos de 35-74 anos. Estudo transversal realizado com os dados da linha de base (2008-2010) do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil). O teste postural foi realizado após repouso de 20 minutos na posição supina e adoção ativa da postura ortostática. A pressão arterial foi medida em supino e aos três minutos de ortostase com aparelho oscilométrico (HEM 705 CP, Omron, São Paulo, Brasil). A hipotensão ortostática foi definida por queda ≥ 20mmHg na pressão arterial sistólica e/ou queda ≥ 10mmHg na pressão arterial diastólica. As covariáveis analisadas foram sexo, faixa etária, raça/cor, escolaridade, estado nutricional, circunferência da cintura, alteração no índice tornozelo braquial, velocidade de onda de pulso, pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica, hipertensão, diabetes, uso de anti-hipertensivos, colesterol, triglicérides, sorologia para a doença de Chagas, ocorrência de sintomas e variação de frequência cardíaca no teste postural, relato de doença cardíaca, infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM)/revascularização e acidente vascular cerebral. A hipotensão ortostática foi significativamente associada à maior faixa etária, OR = 1,83 (IC95%: 1,14-2,95); alteração no índice tornozelo braquial, OR = 2,8 (IC95%: 1,13-6,88), IAM/revascularização, OR = 1,70 (IC95%: 1,01-2,87); relato de doença cardíaca, OR = 3,03 (IC95%: 1,71-5,36); pressão arterial sistólica aumentada, OR = 1,012 (IC95%: 1,006-1,019); sorologia positiva para a doença de Chagas, OR = 2,29 (IC95%: 1,23-4,27) e ocorrência de sintomas na mudança postural, OR = 20,81 (IC95%: 14,81-29,24). A presença de hipotensão ortostática pode ser alerta de potencial comprometimento cardiovascular, e, portanto, uma ferramenta de rastreamento e prevenção.
A circularidade dos médicos em cinco regiões de São Paulo, Brasil: padrões e fatores intervenientes
Authors: Seixas Paulo Henrique D’Ângelo , Ibañez Nelson , Silva Joana Azevedo da , Bueno Ana Cecilia Venci , Lima Sabrina
Published: August 2019

O artigo objetiva analisar a movimentação dos médicos, sob nova perspectiva, verificando seu deslocamento e oferta de trabalho entre as Regiões de Saúde, especificamente em cinco regiões do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Denominou-se essa movimentação como circularidade médica, definida pela diversidade de vínculos constituintes do exercício profissional observada ao longo de um determinado período em determinados espaços geográficos. A metodologia usada foi de estudo de casos múltiplos com aplicação de abordagens quantitativas e qualitativas. Todos os médicos cadastrados na base do Cadastro Nacional de Estabelecimentos de Saúde (CNES), em março de 2015, foram categorizados em: “médicos exclusivos”, com vínculos exclusivamente na região em foco; e “médicos não exclusivos”, com vínculo na região e em outras. Analisaram-se os dados socioeconômicos e de saúde da região e a estrutura assistencial de saúde. A dependência regional de médicos externos variou de 30% a 40%, mais elevada nas regiões mais desenvolvidas e menor nas menos desenvolvidas. A dependência interna, entre municípios, fica próxima de 40% nas regiões com maior desenvolvimento econômico e chega a 60% nas as regiões menos desenvolvidas. Médicos não exclusivos são mais especializados, com maior atuação em especialidades cirúrgicas e de diagnóstico, e os exclusivos atuam mais em especialidades básicas e clínicas, indicando que a movimentação pode estar associada à organização da prestação da assistência, nos seus diferentes arranjos. Identifica-se uma crescente participação de arranjos terceirizados e a importância de ações pactuadas regionalmente. Tais estudos podem orientar melhor as políticas redistributivas mais integradas.
Psychometric properties of the hospital birth satisfaction scale: Birth in Brazil survey
Authors: Costa Dayana Dourado de Oliveira , Ribeiro Valdinar Sousa , Ribeiro Marizélia Rodrigues Costa , Esteves-Pereira Ana Paula , Sá Lucas Guimarães Cardoso de , Cruz Joana Athayde da Silva , Leal Maria do Carmo , Silva Antônio Augusto Moura da
Published: August 2019

The objective of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the hospital birth satisfaction scale with data from the first follow-up interview of the Birth in Brazil survey. The 11 questions of the scale were asked by telephone up to six months after discharge in a stratified random sample of 16,109 women residing in all five regions of the country. The sample was randomly divided into two halves. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was applied to the first half in order to identify the scale’s factorial structure. The scree plot suggested the scale to be one-dimensional. The EFA demonstrated a good fit of the one-dimensional model. Factor loadings were greater than 0.5 for all items, except for the mean time transpired between leaving the home and arriving at the maternity hospital, which was excluded from the next analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis applied to the sample’s second half with the remaining ten items had a good fit and the factor loadings were > 0.50 with p-values < 0.001. The associations between birth satisfaction and the external variables, the mother’s education level (standardized coefficient = 0.073; p = 0.035), private insurance (SC = 0.183; p < 0.001) and having a companion at some point during the hospitalization for labor (SC = 0.193; p = 0.001) were all as expected. There was evidence of configural and metric invariance according to type of hospital (private or public) and type of delivery (cesarean or vaginal). These results showed that the hospital birth satisfaction scale in Brazil is a one-dimensional instrument composed of ten items.
Ameaça à vida ao nascer: uma análise das causas de morte e estimativa de sobrevida de menores de cinco anos em coortes de nascidos vivos
Authors: Kale Pauline Lorena , Silva Kátia Silveira da , Saraceni Valéria , Coeli Cláudia Medina , Torres Tania Zdenka Guillén de , Vieira Fernanda Morena dos Santos Barbeiro , Rocha Narayani Martins , Fonseca Sandra Costa
Published: August 2019

Apesar da redução da mortalidade na infância, as causas ainda são majoritariamente evitáveis, e a sobrevida pode estar condicionada à situação de ameaça à vida ao nascer. Foram estimadas a carga de ameaça à vida ao nascer, de near miss neonatal, e a mortalidade, com ênfase na evitabilidade, e sobrevida na infância, em coortes de nascidos vivos. Estudo de coorte retrospectiva de nascidos vivos residentes no Município do Rio de Janeiro (2012-2016). Os bancos de dados dos Sistemas de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos e sobre Mortalidade foram relacionados. Critérios pragmáticos foram utilizados para definir ameaça à vida e near miss. Óbitos foram classificados segundo a lista brasileira de causas de mortes evitáveis. Foram estimados indicadores de morbimortalidade e a sobrevida (Kaplan-Meier). Dos 425.505 nascidos vivos, 2,2% apresentaram ameaça à vida ao nascer. As taxas de mortalidade na infância, infantil e neonatal foram, respectivamente: 0,01; 0,06 e 14,97 por mil pessoas-dia. Causas evitáveis, não claramente evitáveis e mal definidas corresponderam, respectivamente, a 61%, 35% e 4% dos óbitos. O risco de morte por causas evitáveis atribuível ao nascimento com ameaça à vida foi de 97,6%. A sobrevida foi menor entre recém-nascidos com ameaça à vida, comparados àqueles sem ameaça à vida. Os critérios pragmáticos de ameaça à vida determinaram o perfil de mortalidade proporcional por causas de morte segundo os três grupos de causas da lista brasileira de causas de mortes evitáveis. Nascer com ameaça à vida define crianças com maior risco de morbimortalidade e põe, em pauta, a discussão sobre a vulnerabilidade e as necessidades de assistência às crianças e do apoio social às suas famílias.
Toxicological properties of an aqueous extract of Aristolochia triangularis leaves, using the brine shrimp lethality and Allium cepa bioassays
Authors: Silva José Darlan Alves da , Nogueira Cláudio Rodrigo , Vieira Maria do Carmo , Heredia-Vieira Silvia Cristina , Barufatti Alexeia , Crispim Bruno do Amaral , Francisco Luiza Flávia Veiga , Viana Lucilene Finoto , Cardoso Claudia Andrea Lima
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACT: The aqueous extract of Aristolochia triangularis leaves showed activity against Artemia salina larvae, with an LD50 of 370.6 µg/mL. In experiments with Allium cepa seeds, the extract caused a 51.26% reduction in the germination index, inhibited mean root growth, and was cytotoxic at concentrations of 668 and 2,000 µg/mL. Its antioxidant activity was additionally assessed in this research and the ferric reducing antioxidant power value was found to be 391.2 µM/g. Such health-beneficial property can be attributed partly to the total phenolic content, spectrophotometrically determined as 52.67 mg/g. The occurrence of cytotoxicity suggested caution when consuming teas from A. triangularis leaves for medicinal purposes, and equally reveals the need for further studies to investigate their adverse effects.
Adaptation and validation of the Organizational Learning Mechanism Scale (OLMS)
Authors: Silva Fábio Ferreira , Odelius Catarina Cecília
Published: August 2019

Abstract The purpose hereof is to adapt the Organizational Learning Mechanism Scale (OLMS), which deals with organizations’ actions to create procedures and practices for knowledge acquisition, storage, sharing, and use. The adaptation of this scale was based on the validation of the scale for the Brazilian context, and on a theme-related literature review. The adapted scale was submitted for semantic and theoretical validation by judges and for the application of a pilot test in a small sample. The data of 268 public servants who work in military and civil organizations were collected through electronic means. Once the recommended prior analyses were conducted, we performed a factorial analysis, identifying 3 factors: Internal Acquisition Mechanisms (11 items and α = 0.924), Codification and Control Mechanisms (8 items and α = 0.899), and External Acquisition Mechanism (3 items and α = 0.726), which explain a total variance of 62.20%, results that were superior to those found in the first adaptation of the OLMS. The final results point to an instrument with good statistical parameters and which is responsible for a great amount of the construct’s variance, indicating new directions for the execution of new research.
Knowledge management maturity models: identification of gaps and improvement proposal
Authors: Escrivão Giovana , Silva Sergio Luis da
Published: August 2019

Abstract The aim of this paper is to conduct a systematic review of knowledge management maturity models, indicating shortcomings, identifying relevant factors for the models and suggesting improvements. This study can be characterized as a theoretical research based on a systematic literature review. This paper contributed through a review and analysis of existing knowledge management maturity models to bring forth their contributions and drawbacks; the main criticisms and shortcomings of these models and factors relevant to the development of knowledge management maturity were identified, systematic and conceptually, which must be confirmed and explored through empirical research.
Supply chain risk management at seaport container terminals
Authors: Dias Gabriela Costa , Leal Junior Ilton Curty , Oliveira Ualison Rébula de
Published: August 2019

Abstract Since seaports are common and crucial links in the supply chains of several organizations, the objective of this work was to identify what risks a port can offer to the organizations in its chain and how they are treated by the port’s managers. An exploratory survey was carried out using semi-structured interviews with employees of the company that operates the container and coal terminal of the second largest Brazilian port. The results revealed there is no structured risk management process by the port administration, but several actions taken revealed concern for reaction to risk situations. This highlights the benefits of clarifying the issues, contributing to the literature and assisting professionals in structuring a supply chain risk management process.
Investigação do Fenômeno das Bolhas em Soldagem Subaquática Molhada com Arame Tubular Autoprotegido
Authors: Mendonça Camilla Mara , Bracarense Alexandre Queiroz
Published: August 2019

Resumo O fenômeno de formação de bolhas está fortemente ligado a variação dos sinais elétricos e estabilização do arco de solda na soldagem subaquática molhada com arame tubular (FCAW). O bom entendimento desses fenômenos pode ser usado para uma melhor otimização dos parâmetros de soldagem e consequentemente uma melhoria na qualidade final da solda. Com este trabalho observou-se o comportamento dinâmico das bolhas formadas, uma possível relação de mudança de frequência e do tamanho das bolhas geradas com a mudança dos parâmetros de soldagem. Analisou-se ainda a ocorrência dos modos de evolução de bolhas e sua correlação com os valores dos sinais elétricos, e a comparação da formação de bolhas com um diferente tipo de tocha com a qual é possível utilizar bico de contato mantido seco e molhado. A formação de bolhas se mostrou um fenômeno instável e a geometria da bolha está em constante mudança. Assim, por meio do controle dos parâmetros de soldagem percebeu-se que é possível otimizar um tamanho de bolha ideal para melhorar a proteção do arco elétrico e evitar a sua extinção.
Keyhole GTAW with Dynamic Wire Feeding Applied to Orbital Welding of 304L SS Pipes
Authors: Riffel Kauê Correa , Silva Régis Henrique Gonçalves e , Dalpiaz Giovani , Marques Cleber , Schwedersky Mateus Barancelli
Published: August 2019

Abstract Currently, in the Brazilian Oil and Gas scenario the execution of welding processes for stainless steel consists mostly of manual applications, rendering hard any increase in productivity and repeatability. Therefore, the automation of this step allows several advances such as more reliable results, lower costs and healthier condition for welders. With the aim of developing automation for GTAW welding of these applications, experimental tests were carried out in a 304L stainless steel pipe laid out at 5G position. The samples were orbitally welded by GTAW with dynamic wire feeding process, using a robotic manipulator in two steps of 180º in vertical down progression. The welding parameters and the stable condition obtained are discussed and the weld pool behavior during the root pass was online monitored by HDR (High Dynamic Range) videography. It was possible to reach high welding speed in the root pass, 50 cm/min in a keyhole mode. The wire dynamic movement contributed to reach great process stability and robustness for all joint passes, from root to finishing. The macrographs and x-ray analysis did not indicate discontinuities as porosity nor lack of fusion.
Optimized synthesis for improved TiO2 NT array surface
Authors: Marques P. A. , Albertin K. F. , Monteiro G. Z. , Pereyra I.
Published: August 2019

Abstract Different thicknesses of photoresist layers were deposited on the Ti foil in order to decrease the initial current during the anodization process, avoiding or diminishing in this way the formation of the initial compact TiO2 layer. The studies of the initial synthesis stages were performed in both cases, for the conventional synthesis and for that with photoresist layer on top of the Ti foil. TiO2 nanotube pH electrodes were fabricated to study the effect of this change in the anodization process. The nanostructure morphology was analyzed through scanning electron microscopy technique. Total removal of the undesirable layer and a complete release of the nanotube mouth were obtained. The pH electrodes were characterized utilizing a buffer solution and improved pH sensitivity and absence of hysteresis effects were observed for the devices fabricated with TiO2 nanotubes obtained with the optimized process.
A comparative study of particle size distribution using analysis of variance for sedimentation and laser diffraction methods
Authors: Santana G. L. , Brasileiro C. T. , Azeredo G. A. , Ferreira H. C. , Neves G. A. , Ferreira H. S.
Published: August 2019

Abstract The granulometric analysis is a basic tool in the characterization process of particulate materials and can be determined through numerous methods, most notably the densimeter and laser diffraction methods. However, these techniques are based on distinct physical principles that can generate different results causing doubts. The objective of this paper was to study both methods, using a standardized sample preparation according to Brazilian standard NBR 7181. Kaolin and quartz samples were used to represent the clayey and sandy soil fractions, respectively, with compositions varying from 100% to 0% kaolin content. Granulometric distribution curves and respective fractions of each composition were determined. These results were statistically compared by analysis of variance (F-test) and correlated using linear regression. The statistical comparison indicated a strong dependence between the densitometer and laser diffraction methods with and without the same sample preparation, indicating a direct correlation with 95% confidence.
Influence of reactivity and mineralogical composition on instability due to the disintegration of shales from Paraíba and Ceará States, Brazil
Authors: Leal C. A. , Brunet M. N. C. , Amorim L. V. , Lira H. L. , Nogueira F. C. C. , Costa W. R. P.
Published: August 2019

Abstract This work aimed to correlate the reactivity and mineralogical composition of shales to their disintegration. To accomplish this, five samples of shale from Rio do Peixe Basin and Araripe Basin, located in the Brazilian States of Paraíba and Ceará, respectively, were characterized. A sample of industrialized bentonite clay was used as a reference to provide a comparison. Characterization was performed through cation exchange capacity, particle size analysis, X-ray fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction. Disintegration tests were performed according to the American Petroleum Institute standards in the presence of deionized water, aqueous potassium citrate solution, and drilling fluid. The results suggested that samples presenting no reactive clay mineral content may be unstable and the higher the reactivity of the samples to aqueous fluids does not necessarily imply a higher level of disintegration. This demonstrated that different mechanisms not associated with clay swelling may assume greater or lesser relevance on the instability of a formation.
Influência do tipo de solvente na síntese de mulita pelo método Pechini
Authors: Braga A. N. S. , Simões V. N. , Lira H. L. , Neves G. A. , Menezes R. R.
Published: August 2019

Resumo Mulita é um aluminossilicato com grande importância na tecnologia cerâmica. Sua síntese através de métodos químicos tem sido extensivamente estudada, no entanto, não se observam estudos da sua obtenção pelo método Pechini. Assim, este estudo teve por objetivo a síntese de mulita por meio deste método. Foi avaliada a influência de diversos solventes na obtenção da mulita pela rota Pechini. As características dos pós foram avaliadas por difração de raios X, análise térmica (TG/DTG), adsorção de nitrogênio (BET), microscopia eletrônica de varredura e de transmissão. Os resultados obtidos comprovaram a eficiência do método Pechini, bem como a influência dos solventes na obtenção da fase, sendo a mulita obtida como fase majoritária e com maior cristalinidade quando do uso do álcool etílico como solvente.
Evaluation of the pozzolanic activity of red ceramic waste using mechanical and physicochemical methods
Authors: Araújo R. A. , Menezes A. L. R. de , Cabral K. C. , Nóbrega A. K. C. , Martinelli A. E. , Dantas K. G. M.
Published: August 2019

Abstract Alternative cementitious materials can potentially reduce the environmental impact of the extraction of lime and the hazardous production of Portland cement. Red ceramic waste can be comminuted to fine particles with both filler and pozzolanic activity and used in Portland and lime mortars. This study presents the evaluation of the pozzolanic activity of red ceramic waste by physicochemical and mechanical methods using Portland cement and lime mortars. The evaluated waste depicted high pozzolanic activity and absence of Na2O, and consumed 32% of CaO according to the adapted Chapelle test. The compressive strength recorded in the pozzolanic activity test with lime was 7.1 MPa at 7 days. Moreover, the compressive strength of mixes with 25% replacement of Portland cement by red ceramic waste was 11% higher than the reference waste-free composition. The red ceramic waste depicted adequate characteristics to be used in the production of large volumes of Portland and lime mixes commonly employed in the civil construction.
Chemical conversion of a solid body of the composite gypsum/polyhydroxybutyrate in hydroxyapatite/polyhydroxybutyrate
Authors: Barbosa A. A. , A. Júnior S. , Dantas A. C. S. , Ferraz A. V.
Published: August 2019

Abstract The transformation of the gypsum into hydroxyapatite allows added value to this raw material, because the ceramic obtained has a high commercial value in relation to gypsum, while the polymer adds biocompatibility and bioactivity properties to the biocomposite. Thus, hydroxyapatite/polyhydroxybutyrate composites were prepared from the gypsum/polyhydroxybutyrate, using a 10% mass ratio of the polymer. The material was obtained by means of a chemical conversion carried out in a solution of ammonium hydrogen phosphate (0.5 mol.L-1) and alkaline medium (ammonium hydroxide 6.0 mol.L-1) for pH control. The reaction occurred at 100 °C at different test times. Analyzes of infrared spectroscopy showed functional groups characteristic of hydroxyapatite after 36 h of reaction; in addition, the biomaterial was identified as the major phase in X-ray diffraction patterns. Scanning electron microscopy of the materials before and after conversion showed a clear change in their morphologies, indicating the success of the synthesis.
Synthesis of high-silica ZSM-5 with seeds in the presence of ethanol and amine
Authors: Mendonça T. R. D. , Santos J. R. , Sarmento L. R. A. , Silva D. C. M. , Cysneiros O. M. S. , Silva A. O. S.
Published: August 2019

Abstract The possibility of crystallization of ZSM-5 with high Si/Al ratio was evaluated through the combined use of crystallization seeds and organic compounds that are not conventional directing agents for ZSM-5 (ethanol, methylamine, ethylamine, propylamine, butylamine, isopropylamine and diethylamine) in order to find a less toxic and costly route of synthesis. In addition, the influence of the stirring during the crystallization step on the properties of the ZSM-5 obtained in these synthesis conditions was verified. The obtained zeolites were analyzed by X-ray diffractometry in order to understand the effects of the templates. The analyses of NH3-TPD, nitrogen adsorption, SEM, and TG/DTA were performed for the samples with better crystallinity. The procedure was successfully employed for the synthesis of MFI samples using propylamine as an alternative structure-directing agent. Its mean crystallite size ranged from 23 to 24 nm and was efficient in the cracking reaction of n-hexane.
Evaluation of water quality in fee-fishing ponds located in Guarapiranga’s sub basin, Upper Tietê River basin, São Paulo State
Authors: Bueno A. S. , Rodrigues E. S. , Maruyama L. S. , Castro P. M. G.
Published: August 2019

Abstract This study intended to characterize the fee-fishing ponds located in Guarapiranga's sub-basin both in terms of structure and environmental conditions. The studied region was mapped and 15 out of 24 georeferenced fee-fishing ponds had their owners interviewed through semi-structured questionnaires. In addition to that, samples were collected from the seven fee-fishing ponds closest to the reservoir throughout a seasonal cycle divided in four sample collections carried out between November 2013 and August 2014, aiming at measuring the following variables in situ: water flow rates, pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity and dissolved oxygen concentration in affluents and effluents. Other samples were taken in order to assess total phosphorus (TP) and total nitrogen (TN) concentrations. Our results show a decrease in dissolved oxygen concentration along with an increase in TP and TN concentration in effluents, as compared to affluents. TP e TN concentrations exceeded the permitted values established by CONAMA 357/2005 – Class II resolution in all effluents at least during part of the year. High nutrient levels were observed in affluents, condition with which basins that have been affected by population growth are commonly met. It was verified, by interviewing the owners regarding venture management and by analyzing the collected samples, that there is significant correlation between the daily feeding and the TP and TN levels (p=0.021 and p=0.045, respectively), with the ponds where feeding is more intense having showed the highest nutrient levels in their effluents. The results highlight the importance of mitigation measures such as educating the owners on proper water management, the installation of pond aerators in conjunction with tanks the filters of which shall be composed of aquatic macrophytes in their effluents, as well as awareness campaigns aiming to reduce the usage of dough by fishermen in order to minimize detrimental impacts on Guarapiranga’s sub-basin.
Diversity of Biomphalaria spp. freshwater snails and associated mollusks in areas with schistosomiasis risk, using molecular and spatial analysis tools
Authors: Palasio Raquel Gardini Sanches , Xavier Iara Giordano , Chiaravalotti-Neto Francisco , Tuan Roseli
Published: August 2019

Abstract: The Middle Paranapanema River region of São Paulo, Brazil is home to significant diversity of Biomphalaria species and is very vulnerable to health and environmental impacts such as schistosomiasis. This study updates freshwater malacological surveys for ecosystems in one portion of the Middle Paranapanema River Basin, with emphasis on the genus Biomphalaria. Snails were collected from 114 distinct bodies of water between 2015 and 2018. Biomphalaria specimens were identified according to morphological and molecular characteristics, while animals in other genera (Drepanotrema, Lymnaea, Melanoides, Physa and Pomacea) were identified solely according to shell characteristics. A geographic information system was used to update intermediate host colonization sites and consequently assist in identifying probable hotspots for intermediate hosts of schistosomiasis. The sequences of the COI gene relating to the DNA barcode stretch were tested for similarity against sequences found in GenBank, for monophyly through Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic inference, and analyzed in ABDG, bPTP and GMYC for the delimitation of putative species. Of the 10,722 snails collected, 86.7% were in the Planorbidae family (75.5% Biomphalaria and 11.2% Drepanotrema) and 13.3% were other non-Planorbidae species (Lymnaea, Melanoides, Physa and Pomacea). The taxonomic COI reference sequences in the NCBI nucleotide database used for DNA sequence comparison, and phylogenetic analysis used to test the monophyly of the groups, resulted in more reliable taxonomic units than delimitation of the COI sequences in MOTUs using statistical taxonomic models. Analysis of the species distribution shows that B. glabrata and B. tenagophila are heterogeneously distributed in the study area. B. glabrata colonizes only five water bodies, in the study area, most of them in Ourinhos, while B. tenagophila predominates in water bodies in Ipaussu. Contrasting with this, B. straminea, B. occidentalis and B. peregrina are evenly distributed throughout the study area.
Ichthyofauna from floodplain lakes of Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Piagaçu-Purus (RDS-PP), lower rio Purus
Authors: Morales Bruno Ferezim , Ota Rafaela Priscila , Silva Victória Dandara Pereira e , Deus Cláudia Pereira de
Published: August 2019

Abstract: The ichthyofauna of the rio Purus has been little investigated, especially in its lower portion, characterized by diverse aquatic environments, especially in flooded areas. We inventoried the ichthyofauna of floodplain lakes with different management efforts in Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Piagaçu-Purus (RDS-PP), which represent important resource for commercial fishing in North region, in the first illustrated inventory of the fish fauna from lower rio Purus. We surveyed 20 lakes, classified as open access (eight lakes) and protected (12 lakes) during 2009 low water levels. A total of 2,299 individuals were collected, represented by seven orders, 25 families and 74 species. Characiformes was the most representative order in number of species and families, followed by Siluriformes, Cichliformes, Gymnotiformes, Clupeiformes, and Osteoglossiformes. Most abundant and frequent species were Pygocentrus nattereri, Triportheus angulatus, Serrasalmus sp. "2n=58", Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps, and Osteoglossum bicirrhosum. Protected lakes presented higher species richness compared to open access lakes. Similarly, protected lakes possessed 26 species occurring exclusively, with emphasis on Colossoma macropomum, an important species for fisheries due to its commercial importance. We added 44 new records of fish species for the lower rio Purus. Our results indicate the potential efficiency of zoning systems of open access and protected lakes established by local population and ruled by RDS-PP for fisheries management. Therefore, we strongly suggest its maintenance for conservation of ichthyofauna of floodplain lakes of lower rio Purus.
Efeitos dos probióticos no perfil lipídico: revisão sistemática
Authors: Gadelha Carlos Jorge Maciel Uchoa , Bezerra Alane Nogueira
Published: August 2019

Resumo As alterações na microbiota intestinal podem modular mecanismos envolvendo fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares, incluindo as dislipidemias. O objetivo foi revisar os efeitos da suplementação de probióticos na prevenção e no tratamento de alterações do perfil lipídico. As pesquisas foram feitas na base de dados PubMed, com os descritores “probiotics and lipid profile” e “probiotics and dyslipidemia”, em artigos publicados entre 2013 e 2018. A suplementação com probióticos reduziu significativamente o colesterol total, o colesterol LDL (lipoproteína de baixa densidade) e os triglicerídeos, assim como aumentou o colesterol HDL (lipoproteína de alta densidade). Alguns benefícios foram observados sobre variáveis antropométricas, de controle glicêmico, de estresse oxidativo, de inflamação e do sistema imune. O presente estudo sugere que a suplementação de probióticos seja indicada como tratamento coadjuvante às dislipidemias. Novos estudos devem ser desenvolvidos com a finalidade de esclarecer os efeitos de longo prazo, assim como a influência dos probióticos em associação com o tratamento medicamentoso.
Construcciones de voz media y alternancias de la transitividad en lengua toba (Flia. Guaycurú)
Authors: Zurlo Adriana Alicia
Published: August 2019

RESUMEN Este artículo analiza desde una perspectiva tipológico-funcional construcciones de voz media en lengua toba (familia guaycurú). A diferencia de otros estudios previos, se argumenta que la voz media, expresada a través del paradigma verbal n-, muestra características típicas de un sistema de voz básica activa-media (Klaiman 1991). El objetivo es describir, dentro del continuo heterogéneo de construcciones medias alternantes del toba, varias operaciones de ajuste de valencia o alternancias de la transitividad con morfemas verbales aplicativos, el sufijo reflexivo (-laɁt) y el sufijo recíproco (-aɁt). La voz media en esta lengua es una categoría semántica compleja que no siempre involucra detransitivización semántico-sintáctica.
Multimodalidade no contexto brasileiro: um estado de arte
Authors: Gualberto Clarice Lage , Santos Záira Bomfante dos
Published: August 2019

RESUMO Neste trabalho, lançamos um olhar panorâmico sobre contribuições e os desdobramentos da Abordagem da Multimodalidade nas pesquisas no contexto brasileiro. No primeiro momento, centramos o diálogo nas postulações de Kress (2010); Kress e van Leeuwen (2001); Bezemer e Kress (2016), para compreender a paisagem semiótica. No segundo momento, descrevemos como essa perspectiva tem se colocado no cenário brasileiro, trazendo contribuições para o desenvolvimento de pesquisas. A parte quantitativa deste artigo utilizou as plataformas de busca, como Google Acadêmico e o banco de dados virtual CAPES - Coordenação para o Melhoramento do Pessoal de Educação Superior.
APPLYING SINGULAR SPECTRUM ANALYSIS AND ARIMA-GARCH FOR FORECASTING EUR/USD EXCHANGE RATE
Authors: ABREU RAFAEL J. , SOUZA RAFAEL M. , OLIVEIRA JOICE G.
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACT Purpose: The objective of this article is to model a minute series of exchange rates for the EUR/USD pair using the singular spectrum analysis (SSA) and ARIMA-GARCH methods and evaluate which one offers better forecasts for a five-minute horizon. Originality/value: Despite being a successful technique in other branches of science, the application of SSA in finance is quite new. Furthermore, exchange rate modeling is a complex problem, comprising statistical concepts and properties. However, despite the complexity, the analysis of this series is extremely important for several agents playing, directly or indirectly, a role in the economy and the financial market. Design/methodology/approach: Time series models were estimated using the ARIMA-GARCH and SSA techniques, taking into account three samples of the ask exchange rate (closing): uptrend, downtrend, and no well-defined trend. Findings: The forecasts carried out by the SSA were the ones closest to the original observations for the three cases. Regarding the quality measurements, SSA obtained the best results for both uptrend and downtrend samples; for the sample with no well-defined trend, the findings indicated that the ARIMA-GARCH technique attained better results. However, it was concluded that the SSA forecasts, regarding exchange rates during the studied period, are more appropriate than the ones obtained by the ARIMA-GARCH model, regardless of the market movement.
State-dependent changes in the upper airway assessed by multidetector CT in healthy individuals and during obstructive events in patients with sleep apnea
Authors: Passos Ula Lindoso , Genta Pedro Rodrigues , Marcondes Bianca Fernandes , Lorenzi-Filho Geraldo , Gebrim Eloisa Maria Mello Santiago
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine whether airway narrowing during obstructive events occurs predominantly at the retropalatal level and results from dynamic changes in the lateral pharyngeal walls and in tongue position. Methods: We evaluated 11 patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and 7 healthy controls without OSA during wakefulness and during natural sleep (documented by full polysomnography). Using fast multidetector CT, we obtained images of the upper airway in the waking and sleep states. Results: Upper airway narrowing during sleep was significantly greater at the retropalatal level than at the retroglossal level in the OSA group (p < 0.001) and in the control group (p < 0.05). The retropalatal airway volume was smaller in the OSA group than in the control group during wakefulness (p < 0.05) and decreased significantly from wakefulness to sleep only among the OSA group subjects. Retropalatal pharyngeal narrowing was attributed to reductions in the anteroposterior diameter (p = 0.001) and lateral diameter (p = 0.006), which correlated with an increase in lateral pharyngeal wall volume (p = 0.001) and posterior displacement of the tongue (p = 0.001), respectively. Retroglossal pharyngeal narrowing during sleep did not occur in the OSA group subjects. Conclusions: In patients with OSA, upper airway narrowing during sleep occurs predominantly at the retropalatal level, affecting the anteroposterior and lateral dimensions, being associated with lateral pharyngeal wall enlargement and posterior tongue displacement.
Impacts of climatic changes on the vegetative development of olive cultivars
Authors: Florêncio Gabriel W. L. , Martins Fabrina B. , Ferreira Mábele de C. , Pereira Rodolfo A. de A.
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to simulate the vegetative development of the olive cultivars Arbequina and MGS ASC315 cultivated in Maria da Fé, MG, Brazil (22° 18’ 29” S, 45° 22’ 31” W, 1.276 m of altitude). The development of these cultivars was simulated in nine transplanting dates, considering three distinct scenarios for three periods (2011-2040, 2041-2070 and 2071-2100). Climate changes influence the olive crop management. The increase in air temperature modifies the development rate and the duration of the seedling phase of the cultivars Arbequina and MGSASC315. In colder months, there is accelerated vegetative development and shorter seedling phase duration. Conversely, in warmer months, there is delayed development with longer seedling phase duration.