bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanosonotechnology: the next challenge in cancer sonodynamic therapy
Authors: Serpe Loredana , Foglietta Federica , Canaparo Roberto
Published: October 2012

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a newly developed anticancer treatment where ultrasound is used to trigger the cytotoxic effect of chemical compounds, known as sonosensitizers. Although SDT is similar to photodynamic therapy (PDT), SDT activates the chemical compounds through energy transfer using ultrasound rather than light. Moreover, SDT can focus the ultrasound energy onto malignant sites situa\xadted deeply within tissues, thus overcoming the main drawback linked to the use of PDT. Several physical and chemical mechanisms underlying ultrasound bioeffects and anticancer SDT take advantage of the non-thermal effect of acoustic cavitation generated by selected pulsed or continuous ultrasound. As the physical-chemical structure of the sonosentizer is essential for the success of SDT, we believe that the different aspects related to nanotechnology in medicine might well be able to improve the triggering effect ultrasound has on sonosensitizing agents. Therefore, the aim of this review is to focus on how nanotechnology might improve this innovative anticancer therapeutic approach.
Political Development of Lithuania: A Comparative Analysis of Second Post-communist Decade
Authors: Norkus Zenonas
Published: October 2012

The goal of this paper is to put into focus and explain distinctive features of the political developments in Lithuania during second post-communist decade, comparing them with other Baltic States (Latvia and Estonia) and those Central European countries with political systems which resembled most closely Lithuania (Poland and Hungary) by the end of the first post-communist decade. In all these countries, second post-communist decade witnessed the rise of the new successful populist parties. The author argues that this populist rise is the proper context for understanding of Rolandas Paksas’ impeachment in Lithuania in 2003–2004. His Order and Justice Party has to be classified together with the Kaczynski twins Law and Justice Party and its even more radical allies in Poland, Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz and Gábor Vona’s Jobbik in Hungary, Juhan Part’s Res Publica in Estonia and Einars Repše’s New Era in Latvia. They all were right-wing populist parties, proclaiming in their anti-establishment rhetoric the war on corruption of the (ex-communist) elite and the coming of new politics. While the rise of right-wing populism did not change the political system in Estonia and Latvia, its outcome in Hungary and Poland was the breakup of the ex-communist and anti-communist elites pact which was the foundation of the political stability during first post-communist decade. The Kaczynski twins founded Rzecz Pospolita IV (4th Republic of Poland), grounded in the thorough and comprehensive lustration of the ex-communist cadres. Fidesz leader Orban used the two-thirds majority in the Hungarian parliament to promulgate a new constitution. Lithuania is unique in that the ex-communist and anti-communist elites pact was not abolished, but preserved and consolidated thanks to the collaboration of all, by this time, established and left-of-center populist parties during the impeachment proceedings. The impeachment of Paksas can be considered as the stress test of the young Lithuanian liberal democracy just on the eve of the accession of Lithuania to the European Union and NATO. An unhappy peculiarity of the stress tests is that they sometimes break or damage the items tested. Preventing the transformation of liberal post-communism into populist post-communism in Lithuania, the impeachment as stress test was a success. However, against the expectation of many observers, it did not enhance the quality of democracy of Lithuania. The legacy of impeachment are disequilibrium of the balance of power between government branches in favor of the Constitutional Court, strengthening of the left-of-centre populist political forces and the interference of secret services into Lithuanian politics with the self-assumed mission to safeguard Lithuanian democracy from the perils of populism.
Tetrahedral Palladium Nanocrystals: A New Support for Platinum Monolayer Electrocatalysts with High Activity and Stability in the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Gong Kuanping , Choi YongMan , Vukmirovic Miomir B. , Liu Ping , Ma Chao , Su Dong , Adzic Radoslav R.
Published: October 2012

The recent availability of tetrahedral palladium (PdTH) nanocrystals with cleaned surfaces allowed us to evaluate their facet-specific electrochemical properties as a new support of platinum monolayer (PtML) catalysts. The Pd–PtML core-shell electrocatalyst was examined by combining structural analyses and Density Functional Theory (DFT) with electrochemical techniques. The surfaces of the PdTH core are composed of (111) facets wherein the Pd atoms are highly coordinated and have low surface energy. Our results revealed that in comparison with sphere Pd (PdSP)-supported PtML or pure Pt, the PdTH-supported PtML features more surface contraction and a downshift of d-band relative to the Fermi level. These geometric- and electronic-effects determine the higher activity of PtML/PdTH/C for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) compared to that of PtML/PdSP/C. This shape-property interdependence illuminated new approaches to basic- and applied- research on Pt-based ORR electrocatalysts of significant importance to the widespread use of fuel cells.
Mutations in CUL7, OBSL1 and CCDC8 in 3-M syndrome lead to disordered growth factor signalling
Authors: Hanson D , Murray P G , Coulson T , Sud A , Omokanye A , Stratta E , Sakhinia F , Bonshek C , Wilson L C , Wakeling E , Temtamy S A , Aglan M , Rosser E M , Mansour S , Carcavilla A , Nampoothiri S , Khan W I , Banerjee I , Chandler K E , Black G C M , Clayton P E
Published: October 2012

3-M syndrome is a primordial growth disorder caused by mutations in CUL7, OBSL1 or CCDC8. 3-M patients typically have a modest response to GH treatment, but the mechanism is unknown. Our aim was to screen 13 clinically identified 3-M families for mutations, define the status of the GH–IGF axis in 3-M children and using fibroblast cell lines assess signalling responses to GH or IGF1. Eleven CUL7, three OBSL1 and one CCDC8 mutations in nine, three and one families respectively were identified, those with CUL7 mutations being significantly shorter than those with OBSL1 or CCDC8 mutations. The majority of 3-M patients tested had normal peak serum GH and normal/low IGF1. While the generation of IGF binding proteins by 3-M cells was dysregulated, activation of STAT5b and MAPK in response to GH was normal in CUL7−/− cells but reduced in OBSL1−/− and CCDC8−/− cells compared with controls. Activation of AKT to IGF1 was reduced in CUL7−/− and OBSL1−/− cells at 5 min post-stimulation but normal in CCDC8−/− cells. The prevalence of 3-M mutations was 69% CUL7, 23% OBSL1 and 8% CCDC8. The GH–IGF axis evaluation could reflect a degree of GH resistance and/or IGF1 resistance. This is consistent with the signalling data in which the CUL7−/− cells showed impaired IGF1 signalling, CCDC8−/− cells showed impaired GH signalling and the OBSL1−/− cells showed impairment in both pathways. Dysregulation of the GH–IGF–IGF binding protein axis is a feature of 3-M syndrome.
Unraveling oxyntomodulin, GLP1's enigmatic brother
Authors: Pocai Alessandro
Published: October 2012

Oxyntomodulin (OXM) is a peptide secreted from the L cells of the gut following nutrient ingestion. OXM is a dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP1R) and the glucagon receptor (GCGR) combining the effects of GLP1 and glucagon to act as a potentially more effective treatment for obesity than GLP1R agonists. Injections of OXM in humans cause a significant reduction in weight and appetite, as well as an increase in energy expenditure. Activation of GCGR is classically associated with an elevation in glucose levels, which would be deleterious in patients with T2DM, but the antidiabetic properties of GLP1R agonism would be expected to counteract this effect. Indeed, OXM administration improved glucose tolerance in diet-induced obese mice. Thus, dual agonists of the GCGR and GLP1R represent a new therapeutic approach for diabetes and obesity with the potential for enhanced weight loss and improvement in glycemic control beyond those of GLP1R agonists.
Insertional Mutagenesis by a Hybrid PiggyBac and Sleeping Beauty Transposon in the Rat
Authors: Furushima Kenryo , Jang Chuan-Wei , Chen Diane W , Xiao Ningna , Overbeek Paul A , Behringer Richard R
Published: October 2012

A hybrid piggyBac/Sleeping Beauty transposon-based insertional mutagenesis system that can be mobilized by simple breeding was established in the rat. These transposons were engineered to include gene trap sequences and a tyrosinase (Tyr) pigmentation reporter to rescue the albinism of the genetic background used in the mutagenesis strategy. Single-copy transposon insertions were transposed into the rat genome by co-injection of plasmids carrying the transposon and RNA encoding piggyBac transposase into zygotes. The levels of transgenic Tyr expression were influenced by chromosomal context, leading to transgenic rats with different pigmentation that enabled visual genotyping. Transgenic rats designed to ubiquitously express either piggyBac or Sleeping Beauty transposase were generated by standard zygote injection also on an albino background. Bigenic rats carrying single-copy transposons at known loci and transposase transgenes exhibited coat color mosaicism, indicating somatic transposition. PiggyBac or Sleeping Beauty transposase bigenic rats bred with wild-type albino rats yielded offspring with pigmentation distinct from the initial transposon insertions as a consequence of germline transposition to new loci. The germline transposition frequency for Sleeping Beauty and piggyBac was ∼10% or about one new insertion per litter. Approximately 50% of the insertions occurred in introns. Chimeric transcripts containing endogenous and gene trap sequences were identified in Gabrb1 mutant rats. This mutagenesis system based on simple crosses and visual genotyping can be used to generate a collection of single-gene mutations in the rat.
Reflections of a clinician on switch from human to analogue insulin treatment
Authors: Deák László
Published: October 2012

The development of insulin therapy has not been stopped since the manufacturing of human insulin, because better mimic of physiological insulin response made it necessary to modify the human insulin molecule in order to create rapidly absorbing insulin analogues and 24-hour acting basal insulin analogues. Clinical observations indicate that the complete switch from human basal-bolus therapy to insulin analogues means not only “unit-for-unit” switch but it represents a transfer to an insulin therapy with different basal/bolus ratio as a result of different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of insulin and the level of insulin resistance of the patient. With reference to a case-history, the author presents his experience on a switch from human insulin to insulin analogue. Furthermore, the author summarizes data obtained from a few cases reported in international literature which draw the attention to the fact that the basal/bolus ratio should be adjusted individually, which may be the key for the success in the therapy in these cases. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1589–1593.
Three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography – a further step in the non-invasive three-dimensional cardiac imaging
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kalapos Anita , Domsik Péter , Forster Tamás
Published: October 2012

Three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography is a new cardiac imaging methodology, which allows three-dimensional non-invasive evaluation of the myocardial mechanics. The aim of this review is to present this new tool emphasizing its diagnostic potentials and demonstrating its limitations, as well. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1570–1577.
The variety of emission color Eu2+ doped barium silicate phosphors for LEDs, Ba4Si6O16:Eu2+ and Ba5Si8O21:Eu2+
Authors: Ishigaki T. , Sato K. , Kamei S. , Uematsu K. , Toda K. , Sato M.
Published: October 2012

Blue-green emitted barium silicate phosphors, Ba4Si6O16:Eu2+ and Ba5Si8O21:Eu2+, were prepared by a conventional solid-state reaction. In these hosts, the corner-sharing [SiO4] tetrahedral formed a chain framework structure. These silicate phosphors can be efficiently excited by n-UV light, yielding an intense blue-green emission. Under excitation by near UV light, the emission bands are broader than that of the Ba2SiO4:Eu2+ phosphor.
Expansão dos cursos de Graduação em Enfermagem e mercado de trabalho: reproduzindo desigualdades?
Authors: Silva Kênia Lara , Sena Roseni Rosângela de , Tavares Tatiana Silva , Wan der Maas Lucas
Published: October 2012

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a relação entre a expansão dos cursos de graduação de enfermagem e o mercado de trabalho dos enfermeiros em Minas Gerais. Estudo descritivo-exploratório de abordagem quantitativa, que utilizou fontes de dados secundários sobre os cursos de Graduação em Enfermagem, número de profissionais ocupados, vínculos em estabelecimentos de saúde e empregos formais de enfermeiros no Estado. A evolução dos cursos de Graduação em Enfermagem revela sinais de declínio na procura e oferta nos anos recentes, que pode estar relacionado ao mercado de trabalho do enfermeiro. Este, por sua vez, é marcado por contradições expressas pelo quantitativo excedente de profissionais, em especial nas regiões menos desenvolvidas do Estado, bem como pela baixa proporção de enfermeiros para atender as necessidades de saúde da população. Visualiza-se que estes aspectos reproduzem desigualdades e carecem discussões quanto à regulação da formação e à criação de novos postos de trabalho.
Ações educativas em um Programa de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde
Authors: Bonfim Patricia Fidali , Fortuna Cinira Magali , Gabriel Carmen Silvia , Durante Maria Cristina
Published: October 2012

Este estudo teve por objetivo identificar e analisar as ações educativas realizadas por um Programa de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde de uma cidade do interior do estado de São Paulo, considerando as concepções pedagógicas e os aspectos intervenientes que aproximam e afastam a equipe da mudança de prática pretendida pelo programa. É uma pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa do tipo estudo de caso. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com análise de conteúdo, modalidade temática. O estudo evidenciou que a concepção pedagógica predominante é a da transmissão de informações voltada para prevenção de doenças, embora existam algumas ações próximas da pedagogia participativa. A organização do trabalho e o vínculo com a população também interferem no trabalho educativo. Conclui-se que as ações educativas ainda são alicerçadas no preventivismo com desafios para promoção da saúde e carecem de investimentos em formação e na organização da rede assistencial.
Prática profissional de enfermeiras que cuidam de pacientes com câncer em hospitais gerais
Authors: Silva Josiane Travençolo da , Matheus Maria Clara Cassuli , Fustinoni Suzete Maria , Gutiérrez Maria Gaby Rivero de
Published: October 2012

O presente artigo trata de um estudo qualitativo que buscou compreender o típico da prática profissional de enfermeiras que cuidam de pacientes com câncer em hospitais gerais. Para descobrir os motivos que impulsionam a ação desses profissionais e colocar em evidência o que há de original, significativo, específico e típico nesse fenômeno, julgamos que os pressupostos do filósofo Alfred Schütz dariam subsídios para desvelá-los. Os dados obtidos por meio da entrevista semiestruturada mostraram que as enfermeiras reconhecem não possuir o conhecimento teórico necessário e a experiência ou prática suficiente, para cuidar de pacientes com câncer. Assim, não se sentem capazes de desenvolver ações que influenciem positivamente o cuidado a esses pacientes e seus familiares.
Comparativo de indicadores econômicos da atividade leiteira de sistemas intensivos de produção de leite no Estado de Minas Gerais
Authors: Lopes Marcos Aurélio , Santos Glauber dos , Carvalho Francisval de Melo
Published: October 2012

A produção de leite do Brasil caminha para sistemas de produção com animais de maior produtividade. Entre esses sistemas, o de maior ocorrência é o confinamento total, seguido pelo semiconfinamento. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, estimar e comparar alguns indicadores econômicos de fazendas leiteiras com alto volume de produção diária, em regimes de semiconfinamento e de confinamento total, localizadas no Estado de Minas Gerais. Foram utilizados os dados coletados entre março de 2008 e fevereiro de 2009, em seis sistemas de produção de leite, sendo três em semiconfinamento e três em confinamento total. Utilizou-se a metodologia do custo total e custo operacional, na análise de rentabilidade. Na análise econômica, por apresentarem resultados positivos, os sistemas de produção em semiconfinamento tiveram viabilidade econômica e condições de produzir no curto, médio e longo prazos, com consequente capitalização dos pecuaristas; enquanto os sistemas de produção em confinamento total apresentaram margem bruta negativa, isso indica que os produtores estão se descapitalizando e se endividando, pois as receitas auferidas não foram suficientes para pagar sequer as despesas operacionais efetivas.
Adventitious rooting in cuttings of croton and hibiscus in response to indolbutyric acid and humic acid
Authors: Baldotto Lílian Estrela Borges , Baldotto Marihus Altoé , Soares Raíssa Rezende , Martinez Herminia Emilia Prieto , Venegas Vitor Hugo Alvarez
Published: October 2012

Adventitious rooting of ornamental plants can be accelerated by the application of growth regulators, such as auxin. Humic acids, organic matter in soil and organic compounds also have a biostimulant effect. This work evaluated the rooting in cuttings of croton (Codianeum variegatum L. Rumph) and hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L) in response to the application of different concentrations of indolbutyric acid (IBA) and humic acid (HA). The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse. Apical stem cuttings were treated with solutions at concentrations of: 0, 250, 500, 1000, 2000 mg L-1 IBA and 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 mmol L-1 HA carbon isolated from vermicomposting. Forty-five days after the applications, the cuttings were removed from the pots containing carbonized rice hull and the following variables were measured: rooting number, length and width of leaves, fresh and dry matter of root and aerial part and root area. The results were subjected to analysis of variance and the qualitative and quantitative effects of the treatments were compared by contrast and regression, respectively. Regression equations were used to determine the maximum efficiency level of root dry matter according to IBA and HA. Higher accumulation of root dry matter was recorded for the treatments with the doses 579 mg L-1 IBA and 14 mmol L-1 HA and 970 mg L-1 IBA and 50 mmol L-1 HA for root cuttings of croton and hibiscus, respectively. It was found that the application of eiher IBA or HA at the indicated doses accelerates rooting in cuttings of croton and hibiscus and contributes to the formation of vigorous plants.
Exogenous induction of ovarian activity and ovulation and transfer of fresh embryos of domestic cat (Felis catus)
Authors: Santana Marcelo Lopes , Paula Tarcízio Antônio Rego de , Costa Eduardo Paulino da , Costa Deiler Sampaio
Published: October 2012

The objective of the present study was the exogenous stimulation of ovarian activity and definition of embryo collection, and transfer protocols, in the domestic cat for potential application in non-domestic endangered species. Sixteen adult queens and two adult male reproducers kept in the experimental cat house at the Morphology sector at the Veterinary Department (DVT), UFV, were used in this study. All the queens received a single application of 150 IU Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin (eCG) in the post estrus to induce ovarian activity and 80 to 84 hours later, received a single application of 100 UI Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) to induce ovulation. After hCG application, only the donor queens were naturally mated. The receptor queens received extra stimulus for induction of ovulation through manipulation of an intravaginal swab. Five to six days after hCG application, the donor queens were subjected to a laparotomy for embryo collection that was performed by trans-horn uterine washing. On average, six embryos were surgically inovulated. They were classified as type I and III compact morula and blastocysts in four receptor queens. Three animals presented pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound at day 36 and two of these animals gave birth to litters of two and four offsprings, respectively, at 66 and 63 days after induction of ovulation. Except for one still birth, all the offspring developed normally.
Vida útil pós-colheita do repolho roxo minimamente processado, armazenado em diferentes embalagens
Authors: Gioppo Mariane , Souza Adenilson Mroginski de , Gonçalves Jaciara , Ayub Ricardo Antonio
Published: October 2012

A demanda por alimentos minimamente processados deve-se necessidade de economia de tempo e de maior facilidade de preparo dos alimentos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento do repolho roxo 'Red Dynasty', minimamente processado, submetido a quatro tipos de embalagens e a armazenamento refrigerado. Após minimamente processados, 200g de repolho foram acondicionados em quatro tipos de embalagens: tereftalato de polietileno, com tampa; bandejas de poliestireno expandido, revestidas com filme flexível de policloreto de vinila de 12 µm; filme de polietileno de baixa densidade de 70 µm e polipropileno perfurado. A temperatura durante o período de armazenagem em câmara fria foi de 5 ± 2 °C. As avaliações foram feitas a cada quatro dias, totalizando doze dias de armazenamento. Os parâmetros avaliados foram: perda de matéria fresca, teor de sólidos solúveis, pH, acidez titulável, vitamina C e antocianina. A embalagem PP não é recomendada por causa da grande perda de matéria fresca do repolho. As embalagens PET e PEBD foram as melhores para o armazenamento de repolho minimamente processado; proporcionaram menor perda de massa por doze dias, porém, aos quatro dias já apresentavam aparência escurecida, por causa da oxidação.
Two sequential PCR amplifications for detection of Schistosoma mansoni in stool samples with low parasite load
Authors: Espírito-Santo Maria Cristina Carvalho do , Alvarado-Mora Mónica Viviana , Pinto Pedro Luiz Silva , Carrilho Flair José , Pinho João Renato Rebello , Gryschek Ronaldo Cesar Borges
Published: October 2012

Schistosomiasis constitutes a major public health problem, with an estimated 200 million individuals infected worldwide and 700 million people living in risk areas. In Brazil there are areas of high, medium and low endemicity. Studies have shown that in endemic areas with a low prevalence of Schistosoma infection the sensitivity of parasitological methods is clearly reduced. Consequently diagnosis is often impeded due to the presence of false-negative results. The aim of this study is to present the PCR reamplification (Re-PCR) protocol for the detection of Schistosoma mansoni in samples with low parasite load (with less than 100 eggs per gram (epg) of feces). Three methods were used for the lysis of the envelopes of the S. mansoni eggs and two techniques of DNA extraction were carried out. Extracted DNA was quantified, and the results suggested that the extraction technique, which mixed glass beads with a guanidine isothiocyanate/phenol/chloroform (GT) solution, produced good results. PCR reamplification was conducted and detection sensitivity was found to be five eggs per 500 mg of artificially marked feces. The results achieved using these methods suggest that they are potentially viable for the detection of Schistosoma infection with low parasite load.
Molluscicidal and Mosquitocidal Activities of the Essential oils of Thymus capitatus Hoff. et Link. and Marrubium vulgare L.
Authors: Salama Maha M. , Taher Eman E. , El-Bahy Mohamed M.
Published: October 2012

Steam distillation of essential oils of aerial parts of Thymus capitatus and Marrubium vulgare L. collected at North cost of Egypt yielded 0.5% and 0.2%, respectively. Results of Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses of the two samples identified 96.27% and 90.19% of the total oil composition for T. capitatus and M. vulgare, respectively. The two oil samples appeared dominated by the oxygenated constituents (88.22% for T. capitatus and 57.50% for M. vulgare), composed of phenols, mainly carvacrol (32.98%) and thymol (32.82%) in essential oil of T. capitatus, and thymol (34.55%) in essential oil of M. vulgare. It was evaluated the molluscicidal activity of T. capitatus and M. vulgare essential oils on adult and eggs of Biomphalaria alexandrina as well as their mosquitocidal activity on Culex pipiens. The LC50 and LC90 of T. capitatus essential oil against adult snails was 200 and 400 ppm/3hrs, respectively, while for M. vulgare it was 50 and 100 ppm/3hrs, respectively. Moreover, M. vulgare showed LC100 ovicidal activity at 200 ppm/24 hrs while T. capitatus oil showed no ovicidal activity. It was verified mosquitocidal activity, with LC50 and LC90 of 100 and 200 ppm/12hrs respectively for larvae, and 200 and 400 ppm/12hrs respectively for pupae of C. pipiens.
Production of baruzeiro seedling in different protected environments and substrates
Authors: Costa Edilson , Oliveira Letícia C. de , Santo Tiago L. do Espírito , Leal Paulo A. M.
Published: October 2012

The high seedlings quality is essential for deployment of homogeneous orchards. This study evaluated the baruzeiro (Dipteryx alata Vog) seedlings formation on different substrates within protected environments. It was used substrates with100% of cattle manure; 100% of cassava stems; 100% of vermiculite; 50% of cattle manure + 50% of cassava stems; 50% of cattle manure + 50% of vermiculite; 50% of cassava stems + 50% of vermiculite; and + ⅓ of cattle manure + ⅓ of cassava stems + ⅓ of vermiculite. These substrates were tested in protected areas: greenhouse; black shade net of 50% shading; and aluminized thermo-reflective screen of 50% shading. A completely randomized experimental design with five replicates of four plants was adopted. Initially, data were submitted to analysis of individual variance of the substrates, in each environment of cultivation, then performing the evaluation of the residual mean square and the analysis of these environments together for comparison. The best substrate for baruzeiro seedlings was pure vermiculite. The substrates with 100% of manure and the substrate with 33.33% of the mixed studied materials can be used for seedlings formation. The environment with screen can be indicated for the production of baruzeiro seedlings, since it gave vigor to the seedlings.
Impact of elevated temperature scenarios on potato leaf development
Authors: Streck Nereu A. , Uhlmann Lilian O. , Zanon Alencar J. , Bisognin Dilson A.
Published: October 2012

The objective of this study was to simulate the impact of elevated temperature scenarios on leaf development of potato in Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. Leaf appearance was estimated using a multiplicative model that has a non-linear temperature response function which calculates the daily leaf appearance rate (LAR, leaves day-1) and the accumulated number of leaves (LN) from crop emergence to the appearance of the upper last leaf. Leaf appearance was estimated during 100 years in the following scenarios: current climate, +1 °C, +2 °C, +3 °C, +4 °C e +5 °C. The LAR model was estimated with coefficients of the Asterix cultivar in five emergence dates and in two growing seasons (Fall and Spring). Variable of interest was the duration (days) of the crop emergence to the appearance of the final leaf number (EM-FLN) phase. Statistical analysis was performed assuming a three-factorial experiment, with main effects being climate scenarios, growing seasons, and emergence dates in a completely randomized design using years (one hundred) as replications. The results showed that warmer scenarios lead to an increase, in the fall, and a decrease, in the spring growing season, in the duration of the leaf appearance phase, indicating high vulnerability and complexity of the response of potato crop grown in a Subtropical environment to climate change.
Evaluation of an indicator for water yield in a watershed of Alto Rio Grande Region, State of Minas Gerais , Brazil
Authors: Mattos Roberto de , Silva Antônio M. da , Coelho Gilberto , Mello Carlos R. de , Rezende José L. P. de
Published: October 2012

The Brazilian Law stipulates that water is a limited natural resource doted of economic value, thus it is necessary to develop mechanisms for its adequate management. Actions that encourage the farmers to apply soil conservation practices with the purpose of increase water yield from springs and to promote improvement of its quality, reducing production of sediment transportation, is being encouraged by governments, even with financial compensation for owners. From these assertions, this study aims to quantify the benefits of the conservation actions of the management units and to characterize a Water Yield Indicator (WYI) to support sustainable actions in the watershed of Alto Rio Grande region, in the state of Minas Gerais (MG). To assess the impact of actions it were identified four scenarios of land use and occupation of the watershed from Marcela stream which is located in Alto Rio Grande Region. After analyzing the results, it can be stated that the scenarios simulation has demonstrated important changes in water yield and that the definition of the Water Yield Index from the junction of the erosion potential with the water storage potential, has proved effective, as it integrate quantity and quality of water.
Physical, chemical and microbiological properties of a Dystrophic Yellow Latosol using manipueira
Authors: Silva Júnior João J. da , Coelho Eugênio F. , Sant'Ana José A. do V. , Accioly Adriana M. de A.
Published: October 2012

The study aimed to evaluate chemical, microbiological and hydro-physical changes of a Dystrophic Yellow Latosol, receiver of different levels of manipueira (cassava wastewater) application, in the cultivation of 'Terra Maranhão' banana. The experimental design was a randomized block with three replications in a factorial scheme 3 x 4, in which it was considered three soil depths and four levels of manipueira. It was evaluated the weighted mean diameter of the aggregate, the percentage of aggregation at different periods, soil density, particle density, porosity and soil saturated hydraulic conductivity, in addition to pH of P (mg dm -3), K (mg dm-3), Ca (cmolc dm-3), Mg (cmolc dm-3), Ca+Mg (cmolc dm-3), Al (cmolc dm-3), Na (cmolc dm -3), H+Al (cmolc dm-3), CEC (cmolc dm-3), V%, OM (g kg-1), soil microbial biomass (Ug Cg-1 dry soil), acid phosphatase (Ug PNP g-1 h-1). The use of manipueira influenced some physical characteristic of the soil, but it was not possible to specify the effect of increasing application dosage. Therefore, the application did not affect the biological indicators assessed in the soil or its pH. The use of manipueira as a fertilizer in the doses used in this study showed low increase of K, P, H+Al and Al in the soil and a good increase of Mg, Ca and Ca+Mg, Na, CEC and V%.
Nitrogen fertilization by deep-bedding swine production and its effects on the properties of a Quartzarenic Neosol
Authors: Campos Alessandro T. , Veloso Alessandro V. , Silva Enilson de B , Yanagi Junior Tadayuki , Klosowski Elcio S.
Published: October 2012

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the nitrogen fertilization in the form of swine deep bed in the properties of a quartz-sand neosol. The organic compound used was the deep bed made with rice hulls, from a commercial swine finishing system farm. Deep bed samples have been collected at various points in the installation in order to obtain a representative composite sample which has been fractionated in a 2.0 mm sieve and submitted to a 50-day maturation period. Then, agronomic value analyses were done. The experimental design was completely randomized. The treatments consisted of 0; 75; 150 and 300 mg dm-3 of N doses of deep bed as well as an additional treatment with ammonium sulfate at a 150 mg dm-3 of N. The experimental period in the greenhouse was 45 days, where the soil was cultivated with maize. After the experiment completion, further soil properties analyses were done. From the results, it was noted that the organic fertilization with deep bed provided a significant increase in the levels of potassium, in the sum of the bases, in the effective CEC, in the CEC at pH 7.0 and in the percentage of saturation.
Economic optimization method to design telescope irrigation of multiples outlets
Authors: Pinto Marinaldo F. , Camargo Antonio P. de , Coelho Rubens D.
Published: October 2012

In this study is presented an economic optimization method to design telescope irrigation laterals (multidiameter) with regular spaced outlets. The proposed analytical hydraulic solution was validated by means of a pipeline composed of three different diameters. The minimum acquisition cost of the telescope pipeline was determined by an ideal arrangement of lengths and respective diameters for each one of the three segments. The mathematical optimization method based on the Lagrange multipliers provides a strategy for finding the maximum or minimum of a function subject to certain constraints. In this case, the objective function describes the acquisition cost of pipes, and the constraints are determined from hydraulic parameters as length of irrigation laterals and total head loss permitted. The developed analytical solution provides the ideal combination of each pipe segment length and respective diameter, resulting in a decreased of the acquisition cost.
Phenylketonuria, congenital hypothyroidism and haemoglobinopathies: public health issues for a Brazilian newborn screening program
Authors: Botler Judy , Camacho Luiz Antonio Bastos , Cruz Marly Marques da
Published: October 2012

In this study, the frequency of detected congenital hypothyroidism, phenylketonuria and haemoglobinopathies in the State of Rio de Janeiro's (Brazil) Newborn Screening Program (NBSP) was analyzed between the years of 2005 and 2007. There were two Newborn Screening Reference Centers (named NSRC A and B) with programmatic differences. In 2007, overall detection coverage reached 80.7%. The increase in the incidence of congenital hypothyroidism (1:1,030 in 2007) was attributed to the reduction of neonatal TSH value limits over time. The incidence discrepancy of phenylketonuria between NSRC A (1:28,427) and B (1:16,522) might be partially explained by the small number of cases. The incidence of sickle cell disease and its traits were uniformly high (1:1,288 and 1:21, respectively). This was coherent with the ethnic composition of the population. The differences in laboratory methods and critical values, in addition to other programmatic issues, may explain the variances in the results and limited analysis of the role of biological and environmental determinants in the occurrence of these diseases.
Physical and psychosocial risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders in Brazilian and Italian nurses
Authors: Carugno Michele , Pesatori Angela Cecilia , Ferrario Marco Mario , Ferrari Andrea Lepos , Silva Fábio Jose da , Martins Aline Caldas , Felli Vanda Elisa Andres , Coggon David , Bonzini Matteo
Published: October 2012

As part of the international CUPID investigation, we compared physical and psychosocial risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among nurses in Brazil and Italy. Using questionnaires, we collected information on musculoskeletal disorders and potential risk factors from 751 nurses employed in public hospitals. By fitting countryspecific multiple logistic regression models, we investigated the association of stressful physical activities and psychosocial characteristics with site-specific and multisite pain, and associated sickness absence. We found no clear relationship between low back pain and occupational lifting, but neck and shoulder pain were more common among nurses who reported prolonged work with the arms in an elevated position. After adjustment for potential confounding variables, pain in the low back, neck and shoulder, multisite pain, and sickness absence were all associated with somatizing tendency in both countries. Our findings support a role of somatizing tendency in predisposition to musculoskeletal disorders, acting as an important mediator of the individual response to triggering exposures, such as workload.
Is there a crack epidemic among students in Brazil?: comments on media and public health issues
Authors: Nappo Solange Aparecida , Sanchez Zila M. , Ribeiro Luciana Abeid
Published: October 2012

In the past year, the Brazilian Federal Government and society have reported and acted on a crack use epidemic, which has been exacerbated by the media. This study hypothesized that crack use has not increased at the rate suggested by the Brazilian media. A cross-sectional survey was carried out in 2010 usinga multistage probabilistic representative sample of Brazilian middle and high school students in the country's 27 state capitals. A total of 50,890 valid questionnaires were weighted, analyzed and results compared to the 2004 national school survey dataset. Considering lifetime and past year crack use, no change in consumption was found between 2004 and 2010. Official data in Brazil on middle and high school students does not support the assertion of a crack epidemic widely publicized by the media. Government measures to treat and prevent crack use are encouraged; however, the term epidemic has been inappropriately used to represent the static prevalence of crack consumption among students.
The impact of atmospheric particulate matter on cancer incidence and mortality in the city of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Yanagi Yoshio , Assunção João Vicente de , Barrozo Ligia Vizeu
Published: October 2012

This study aimed to verify the impact of inhalable particulate matter (PM10) on cancer incidence and mortality in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Statistical techniques were used to investigate the relationship between PM10 on cancer incidence and mortality in selected districts. For some types of cancer (skin, lung, thyroid, larynx, and bladder) and some periods, the correlation coefficients ranged from 0.60 to 0.80 for incidence. Lung cancer mortality showed more correlations during the overall period. Spatial analysis showed that districts distant from the city center showed higher than expected relative risk, depending on the type of cancer. According to the study, urban PM10 can contribute to increased incidence of some cancers and may also contribute to increased cancer mortality. The results highlight the need to adopt measures to reduce atmospheric PM10 levels and the importance of their continuous monitoring.
Nonwoven polypropylene prosthesis in large abdominal wall defects in rats
Authors: Reis Patrick dos Santos Barros dos , Chagas Vera Lucia Antunes , Silva Jéssica Marquet , Silva Paulo Cesar , Jamel Nelson , Schanaider Alberto
Published: October 2012

PURPOSE: To evaluate, in large abdominal wall defects surgically shaped in rats, if a synthetic polypropylene nonwoven prosthesis could be used as a therapeutic option to conventional polypropylene mesh. METHODS: Twenty four (24) Wistar rats were enrolled into three groups. Group 1 (Simulation group) with an abdominal wall defect of 3 X 3 left untreated and Groups 2 and 3, respectively treated with a conventional polypropylene mesh and a polypropylene nonwoven (NWV) prosthesis to cover the breach. At the 45th postoperatively day, adhesion (area and strength) and vascularization of Groups 2 and 3 were evaluated. The histological preparations with Hematoxylin-Eosin, Tricromium of Masson, Pricrosirius red and polarization with birefringence, and also the structural analysis of the prostheses carried on by Thermogravimetry and Differential Scanning Calorimetry were also assessed. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the Groups 2 and 3. CONCLUSION: In rats, the polypropylene nonwoven prosthesis showed to be safe and has to be considered as an alternative to conventional mesh manufactured by weaving in the treatment of great defects of the abdominal wall.
Combination of poly L-lactic acid nanofiber scaffold with omentum graft for bone healing in experimental defect in tibia of rabbits
Authors: Sotoudeh Amir , Jahanshahi Gholamreza , Jahanshahi Amirali , Takhtfooladi Mohammad Ashrafzadeh , Shabani Iman , Soleimani Masoud
Published: October 2012

PURPOSE: To investigate the osteoconductive properties and biological performance of Poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) with omentum in bone defects. METHODS: PLLA nanofiber scaffolds were prepared via electrospinning technique. Forty four New Zealand white female rabbits randomly divided into three groups of 18 rabbits each. Created defects in right tibias were filled in group I with omentum, in group II with PLLA nanofiber scaffold and in group III with combination of the omentum and PLLA. The same defects were created in left tibia of all groups but did not receive any treatment (control group). Histological and histomorphometric evaluations were performed at two, four and six weeks after the implantation. RESULTS: Histological changes on all groups along with the time course were scored and statistical analysis showed that the average scores in group III were significantly higher than the other groups. CONCLUSION: Histomorphometric analysis of bone healing was shown to be significantly improved by the combined PLLA with omentum compared with the other groups, suggesting this biomaterial promote the healing of cortical bone, presumably by acting as an osteoconductive scaffold.
Agente Comunitário de Saúde no controle da tuberculose na Atenção Primária à Saúde
Authors: Crispim Juliane de Almeida , Scatolin Beatriz Estuque , Silva Laís Mara Caetano da , Pinto Ione Carvalho , Palha Pedro Fredemir , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: October 2012

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o desempenho do Agente Comunitário de Saúde (ACS) no controle da tuberculose (TB) em áreas assistidas pela Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF), sendo estabelecida uma análise comparativa com os ACSs inscritos nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS) tradicionais. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, realizado em um município prioritário para o controle da TB no Estado de São Paulo, com uma amostra mínima de 108 ACSs das ESFs e das UBSs. Para a coleta de dados, utilizou-se um instrumento elaborado para a Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), adaptado para atenção à TB. RESULTADOS: No que concerne às ações de controle da TB, observou-se que não houve diferenças com significância estatística entre o desempenho dos ACSs das unidades da ESF e os inscritos nas UBSs. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo evidenciou a fragilidade dos ACSs em incorporar na sua prática as ações de controle da TB nas distintas modalidades de APS, apesar do destaque dado à ESF.
Substâncias húmicas em Latossolo subtropical de altitude sob usos e manejos distintos
Authors: Tomasi Cristiano Albino , Inda Alberto Vasconcellos , Dick Deborah Pinheiro
Published: October 2012

A interferência antrópica no solo tem modificado a formação original nos Campos de Cima da Serra. O estudo objetivou avaliar a distribuição das substâncias húmicas em um Latossolo sob campo nativo (CN), campo nativo queimado (CNq), mata nativa (MN), florestamento de pinus (FP) e lavoura (LA). Os teores de C orgânico total (COT) e de C em compartimentos químicos da matéria orgânica do solo (MOS) foram determinados. Os usos e manejos adotados no solo afetaram os teores de COT e do C nos compartimentos da MOS. Com relação ao ambiente CN, a MN aumentou o teor de COT, o qual se manteve equivalente no manejo com queima e foi reduzido pelos usos do solo com LA e FP. As alterações de uso e manejo do solo tenderam a reduzir o C nas frações húmicas e modificaram a distribuição das frações ácidos húmicos e fúlvicos.
Características quantitativas em matrizes de codorna de corte através de análises multicaracterística
Authors: Teixeira Bruno Bastos , Euclydes Ricardo Frederico , Teixeira Rafael Bastos , Silva Luciano Pinheiro da , Torres Robledo de Almeida , Lehner Helmut Gonçalves , Caetano Giovani da Costa , Crispim Aline Campores , Paiva André Luis da Costa
Published: October 2012

Objetivou-se no presente trabalho avaliar o desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo de diferentes linhagens de codornas de corte, estimando os parâmetros genéticos das características mensuradas. Avaliaram-se dois grupos genéticos UFV2 e UFV1 de matrizes de codorna de corte, sendo o primeiro com 1110 animais e o segundo com 1026. Foram realizadas análises multivariadas, utilizando a metodologia de componentes principais, para definir as variáveis de maior importância. Em seguida, foram feitas análises bicaracterísticas para estimação das covariâncias e correlações genéticas, das características selecionadas. As características utilizadas na análise foram: peso da ave (P0, P7, P14, P21, P28, P35, P42, P77, P112 e P147), peso médio do ovo (POM1, POM2, POM3 e POM4), peso médio da casca (PCM1, PCM2, PCM3 e PCM4), peso médio da gema (PGM1, PGM2, PGM3 e PGM4), peso médio do albúmen (PAM1, PAM2, PAM3 e PAM4), gravidade específica média do ovo (DM1, DM2, DM3 e DM4), largura média do ovo (LOM1, LOM2, LOM3 e LOM4), comprimento médio do ovo (COM1, COM2, COM3 e COM4), número de ovos (N1, N2, N3 e N4), taxa de postura total (TXT) e idade ao primeiro ovo (IDPO). Para o grupo genético UFV1, um aumento do peso das codornas pode resultar em uma precocidade à IDPO e a seleção feita para aumento do peso corporal das codornas não resulta em perdas significativas na qualidade dos ovos. Já para UFV2, uma seleção feita aos 35 dias pode identificar as matrizes de maior peso ao longo do ciclo de produção, além de não gerar grandes perdas na taxa de postura total.
A problemática do financiamento da saúde pública brasileira: de 1985 a 2008
Authors: Marques Rosa Maria , Mendes Áquilas
Published: October 2012

Este artigo procura, a partir da leitura da literatura produzida no período 1985 - 2008, resgatar qual era o entendimento sobre as bases de financiamento do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) no momento da Constituição de 1988. Irá apresentar os conflitos presentes ao longo de seus vinte anos de existência, evidenciar a incerteza que cerceia seu financiamento e identificar as diferentes propostas de reordenamento de seu custeio. Sua principal conclusão é que, durante esse tempo, não foi construído um financiamento compatível com uma política de saúde universal e integral.
Gênero e pobreza multidimensional no município de Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Bagolin Izete Pengo , Souza Osmar Tomaz de , Comim Flavio V.
Published: October 2012

Este trabalho buscou identificar e dar visibilidade às múltiplas dimensões da pobreza, incluindo aí seus aspectos espaciais e as particularidades das desigualdades de gênero em Porto Alegre. Ele está baseado em resultados de pesquisa, na qual foram entrevistadas 16386 pessoas vivendo em situação de pobreza nas diferentes regiões da cidade. A pesquisa buscou uma mudança de foco na análise sobre pobreza ao enfatizar o peso das dimensões que as pessoas consideram relevante para uma vida "digna de ser vivida". Os resultados evidenciaram a importância de dimensões como habitação, saúde e educação para viabilizar às pessoas uma vida "digna de ser vivida". Igualmente, mostraram as diferenças nas privações entre homens e mulheres, a heterogeneidade entre as regiões de Porto Alegre e, em especial, as formas como homens e mulheres vivenciam e manifestam suas percepções acerca da pobreza e das privações.