bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bovine abortion associated with Staphylococcus aureus infection - characterization of S. aureus strain isolated from fetal tissues
Authors: Henker Luan Cleber , Lorenzett Marina Paula , Riboldi Camila Imperico , Siqueira Franciele Maboni , Driemeier David , Pavarini Saulo Petinatti
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT: Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive bacterium, commonly found colonizing the skin and mucous membranes of humans and animals. This report describes a case of fetal loss associated with S. aureus infection in a cow. A six-month old, crossbred male bovine fetus from a beef farm was submitted for necropsy. At gross examination fibrinous pleuropneumonia was observed. Histologically, lesions were restricted to the lungs and consisted of marked multifocal to coalescing areas of inflammatory infiltrate of neutrophils, abundant fibrin exudation, necrosis of bronchiolar epithelium and numerous aggregates of coccoid bacteria. Lung and abomasal fluid bacterial culture yielded pure culture of S. aureus, which was characterized as a multidrug resistant strain. Molecular analysis indicated that the studied strain presented several genes of virulence factors including toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (tst), staphylococcal enterotoxin type A (sea), Panton-Valentine leukocidin (pvl), alpha-hemolysin (hla) and delta-hemolysin (hld). This report documents an infrequent case of fetal loss in cattle due to infection with a highly virulent S. aureus strain.
Barnyardgrass control using tank-mixed herbicides with saflufenacil and its influence in photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence
Authors: Pigatto Cassiano Salin , Tarouco Camila Peligrinotti , Nicoloso Fernando Teixeira , Berghetti Álvaro Luis Pasquetti , Leães Glauco Pacheco , Werle Isabel Schlegel , Ulguim André da Rosa
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT: The objectives of this research were to evaluate the interaction between herbicides mixed with saflufenacil for the control of barnyardgrass and to determine the effect on photosynthetic and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in a 2x8 factorial scheme, whose factor A tested resistant and susceptible biotypes; and factor B the herbicides: saflufenacil (70 g a.i. ha-1), clomazone (180 g a.i. ha-1), imazapyr + imazapic (73.5 + 24.5 g a.i. ha-1), and cyhalofop (360 g a.i. ha-1), the mixtures of these herbicides with saflufenacil, and control without treatment. Weed control was assessed 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after herbicide application (DAA), as well as shoot dry matter at 28 DAA, photosynthetic parameters using infrared gas analyzer (IRGA), and emission of chlorophyll a fluorescence after 24 and 28 hours of application of treatments, respectively, and interaction of herbicides. Combination of saflufenacil with the herbicides tested in general did not change the response of both barnyardgrass biotypes to the herbicides used. The resistant biotype showed a lower negative effect on chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthesis parameters in the combination of herbicides with saflufenacil. The herbicide cyhalofop was effective for the control of ALS-susceptible and resistant barnyardgrass.
Change management practices to support the implementation of lean production systems: a survey of the scientific literature
Authors: Ferreira Isadora Avelar , Araujo Fernando Oliveira de , Echeveste Márcia Elisa Soares
Published: May 2020

Abstract: The transition from mass production system to lean production system carrier significant changes in operational strategies of industrial organizations. A production model system can engender different reactions by the people involved; some of them can show resistance during the process, ranging from unreserved support to a hidden resistance (even explicit). In order to identify the main practices to support change processes, this study provides a literature review to systematize the main researches related to change management during lean manufacturing implementation. This study aims to provide a systematic literature review covering main researches related to change management and lean manufacturing implementation to identify the main factors that affect the production system change. The research was carried out between October 2016 and January 2018. In methodological terms, literature review was developed by using Scopus and ISI web of Science publications. As a result of this study, 25 papers related to lean manufacturing implementation were identified and 10 factors were consolidated. The most relevant practices of change management were also identified to support lean production system implementation.
Business process redesign: an action research
Authors: Vizzon Janaina Silveira , Carmo Luiz Felipe Roris Rodriguez Scavarda do , Ceryno Paula Santos , Fiorencio Luiza
Published: May 2020

Abstract: The improvement of business processes is considered important to support companies’ competitiveness and sustainability, therefore, being highlighted in the academic community. In this way, the improvement of the organizational processes can be achieved through the business process redesign (BPR), which is considered the most value-added phase in a business process management (BPM) project. However, despite the existence of an extensive literature on the subject of BPR, methodologies or structured procedures that aim to understand the transformation from the “as-is” to the desired “to-be” processes are still scarce. Within this context, to fill this gap in the literature, this study presents the empirical findings and the lessons learnt from an action research with the objective of redesigning the logistic processes of a cultural production enterprise. The empirical study lasted nine months. A synthesis conceptual model for redesigning organizational business processes was proposed based on the literature. This model incorporated three levels (i.e., organizational, business processes and implementation) and provided guidance for conducting the empirical study. Different critical success factors and barriers have been identified and analysed with a focus on organizational, social, and technical dimensions, resulting in contributions to scholars and to practitioners in redesigning business process approaches.
A bibliometric analysis on the use of the multicriteria approach to the water resource management
Authors: Troian Alexandre , Gomes Mário Conill
Published: May 2020

Abstract: The purpose of this article was to accomplish a literature review to analyze the scientific studies which were based on Multicriteria Methods to study water resources management in agriculture. Scientific production indicators were established for the subject, through a descriptive analysis of 519 publications data set generated by the Scopus database search engine. The publications were refined applying several criteria resulting in 30 articles considered to be the most important to interpret the factors that detail the researched topic. The analyzed scientific studies also show that the structuring of multicriteria models is designed to better understand the problem or the process of decision making rather than to make the decisions itself. Furthermore, to the water resources management field, they provide a way to discuss and deal with problems like water distribution and pollution. An aggregating function along with a compensatory approach is used in most publications. Although participatory techniques were not the approach used by most studies, its potential was recognized for dealing with problems such as water management resources.
The influence of the financial logic in the National Quality Award
Authors: Fantti Marina Borges Lima , Donadone Julio Cesar
Published: May 2020

Abstract: The financialization process resulted in a change in the discourse of the actors involved in quality management, who began to incorporate concepts of financial logic as a way to meet the demands of shareholders capitalism and guarantee legitimacy. Thus, through a documentary research, we sought to investigate the influence of the financial logic in the National Quality Award, analyzing the versions of the Management Excellence Model used in the awards cycles and the companies awarded in the period from 1992 to 2016. The results demonstrated the incorporation of financial logic concepts in the versions of the Management Excellence Model; the predominance of award-winning companies from the electric energy sector, which have been privatized; the existence of board interlockings in the winning organizations; and presidents who have professional experience in financial areas and postgraduate degree in finance, which is the profile most demanded and valued in the finance conception of control.
Tribocorrosão de Juntas Soldadas Similares e Dissimilares Utilizando um Aço Martensítico e um Aço SAE 1010: um Estudo Preliminar
Authors: Mazzaferro Cintia Cristiane Petry , Fich André Marubin , Paula Thalita Cristina de , Giarollo Daniela Fátima , Mazzaferro José Antônio Esmerio
Published: May 2020

Resumo: A interação entre desgaste e corrosão, ou seja, a tribocorrosão, ocorre em diversas aplicações industriais e biomédicas e pode levar a uma degradação acentuada do material. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi comparar a resistência ao desgaste em meio aquoso de juntas similares de um aço martensítico (Hardox 500), e de juntas dissimilares entre o aço Hardox e um aço SAE 1010. As juntas foram obtidas empregando-se o processo de soldagem arco submerso, com energia de soldagem de 7,7 kJ/cm. Ensaios de microdesgaste por deslizamento linear recíproco foram realizados na presença de água artificial (0,05 M NaCl), em amostras de dois conjuntos soldados, um de materiais similares e outro de materiais dissimilares. As regiões ensaiadas foram os metais de solda (MS) e as zonas afetadas pelo calor (ZAC), estas últimas nas sub-regiões que apresentavam o menor valor de dureza, em cada conjunto. Para comparação, também foram ensaiados os metais-base (MB) do aço SAE 1010 e do aço Hardox. Como as chapas de aço Hardox possuíam um revestimento de silicato de zinco, condição na qual o aço era fornecido, para este aço os ensaios de corrosão-desgaste foram efetuados em amostras com o revestimento, e também sem ele. Dentre todas as condições estudadas, a maior resistência em tribocorrosão foi verificada para o aço Hardox com o revestimento. Das amostras ensaiadas sem revestimento, a degradação ocasionada pela tribocorrosão foi menor no MB do aço Hardox. Nos demais casos, foi observada a corrosão intensificada pelo desgaste, principalmente para o MB do SAE 1010, onde houve a dissolução acentuada do material adjacente à borda da trilha, fora da região de desgaste.
Análise das Tensões Residuais Utilizando o Método DPC na Soldagem Multipasse do Aço ASTM A131 AH36 pelos Processos SMAW e FCAW
Authors: Pereira Danilo Helder de Melo , Pereira Douglas Henrique de Melo , Rolim Tiago Leite , Ferreira Ricardo Artur Sanguinetti
Published: May 2020

Resumo: As tensões residuais (TR) nas juntas soldadas do aço ASTM A131 AH36 foram analisadas pelo método DPC (deslocamento de pontos coordenados). A soldagem a arco foi realizada pelos processos eletrodo revestido (ER) e arame tubular (AT). As chapas de teste com dimensões de 200 mm x 65 mm e espessura 31,75 mm foram soldadas, segundo as normas (fabricação e qualificação) AWS D1.1 [1] e Petrobrás N-133 [2], respectivamente. Depois de soldadas foram realizados furos equidistantes com diâmetros de 2,00 mm por 2,00 mm de profundidade ao longo da zona termicamente afetada. Após a furação, tais furos foram referenciados em uma mesa de medição por coordenadas. Em seguida, as chapas de teste soldadas foram submetidas a um tratamento térmico para o alívio de tensões (TTAT) e, em seguida, foram medidos os deslocamentos dos furos causados pelo tratamento, o que possibilitou o cálculo das tensões residuais. Os resultados obtidos mostraram uma boa correlação do DPC com outros métodos de medições das TR.
As Vozes de Professores-Pesquisadores do Campo da Educação Ambiental sobre a Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC): Educação Infantil ao Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Silva Silvana do Nascimento , Loureiro Carlos Frederico Bernardo
Published: May 2020

Resumo: A pesquisa qualitativa que balizou a produção desse artigo objetivou categorizar as vozes de professores-pesquisadores do campo da educação ambiental sobre a Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC), por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e da análise textual discursiva das quais emergiram as seguintes categorias: interação, espaço e abordagens da BNCC, concepções sobre BNCC e educação ambiental na BNCC. As vozes dos entrevistados se coadunam com o que afirma a literatura aqui apresentada sobre as críticas à BNCC, no que tange a currículo mínimo, superficialidade e redução de conteúdos críticos, precarização e privatização da educação, formação voltada para o ditame do mercado. No âmbito da EA, a instrumentalização do tema e a ausência de abordagens críticas também foram salientadas, o que reforça o posicionamento de que esta é utilizada como elemento de reforço de uma formação voltada para os ideais neoliberais e meritocráticos.
Murinometric measurements and retroperitoneal adipose tissue in young rats exposed to the high-fat diet: Is there correlation?
Authors: Macêdo A. P. A , Cordeiro G. S. , Santos L. S. , Santo D. A. E. , Perez G. S. , Couto R. D. , Machado M. E. P. C. , Medeiros J. M. Barreto
Published: May 2020

Abstract Aim This study aimed to verify the correlation between murine measurements and retroperitoneal adipose tissue in rats exposed to the high-fat diet. Material and methods: Wistar male adult rats, descendants of mothers who consumed a high-fat diet during pregnancy and lactation and fed the same diet after weaning were used. At 60 days of life, body weight, longitudinal axis and waist circumference (WC) were measured. The Body Mass Index (BMI) and the Lee Index were calculated for a posterior analysis of the correlation with the amount of retroperitoneal adipose tissue dissected on the same day. For analysis of the data, the Pearson correlation test was used, considering statistical significance for p <0.05. Results: Body weight had a weak correlation (r= 0.31; p= 0.38) with retroperitoneal adipose tissue. While the longitudinal correlated moderately and negative (r= -0.40; p= 0.25). Abdominal circumference (r= 0.62; p= 0.05), body mass index (r= 0.61; p= 0.03) and Lee (r= 0.69; p= 0.03) correlated moderately and positively with adipose tissue. Conclusion: Among the measured murine measurements, weight and longitudinal axis were not good indicators to represent accumulation of retroperitoneal adipose tissue in rats. However, Lee's index seems to be the best murine marker to diagnose the accumulation of retroperitoneal fat. BMI, CA and Lee index were murine parameters with higher correlation.
How do pesticides affect bats? – A brief review of recent publications
Authors: Oliveira J. M. , Destro A. L. F. , Freitas M. B. , Oliveira L. L.
Published: May 2020

Abstract Increased agricultural production has been increased use of pesticides worldwide, which poses a threat to both human and environmental health. Recent studies suggest that several non-target organisms, from bees to mammals, show a wide variety of toxic effects of pesticides exposure, including impaired behavior, development and reproduction. Among mammals, bats are usually a neglected taxon among ecotoxicological studies, although they play important ecological and economical roles in forest ecosystems and agriculture through to seed dispersal and insect population control. Considering their wide variety of food habits, bats are exposed to environmental pollutants through food or water contamination, or through direct skin contact in their roosting areas. In order to better understand the risk posed by pesticides to bats populations, we compiled studies that investigated the main toxicological effects of pesticides in bats, aiming at contributing to discussion about the environmental risks associated with the use of pesticides.
Structure and spatial distribution of the rotifer assemblages along a tropical reservoir
Authors: Santos T. A. S. , Lansac-Tôha F. A. , Mantovano T. , Conceição E. O. , Schwind L. T. F. , Arrieira R. L. , Lima J. C. , Serafim-Junior M.
Published: May 2020

Abstract The construction of reservoirs is a common practice in the world. These systems modify the hydric landscape and alter the flow of rivers, becoming lotic environments in lentic. Here we investigated the structure and spatial distribution of rotifers along a tropical reservoir. We sampled four points in the Pedra do Cavalo Reservoir, Bahia, Brazil, bimonthly, between August 2014 and June 2015. We registered more than 70 taxa distributed in 17 families, with the majority of species belonging to the Lecanidae, Brachionidae and Trichocercidae families. The species rarefaction curve did not achieve a total asymptote, indicating that species richness in the reservoir is higher than what was registered. Based in the species frequency of occurrence, we identified 48 rare species, 16 common species, five constant species and one frequent species. The highest beta diversity values were registered in riverine P1 (0.513) and intermediate P2 (0.503), although there were no significant differences between the sampling points. Despite the high abundance values in P1, P2 and P3 no significant differences were found between the studied points. Thus, this study substantially increases the knowledge on the rotifer community in the Paraguaçu River and contributes to future studies that focus on biodiversity, ecology and conservation in the Brazilian reservoir ecosystems.
Tetrastichus howardi (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae): first report of parasitism in Oxydia vesulia (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: Favoreto Ana Laura , Pavani Rafaela Freitas , Ribeiro Murilo Fonseca , Zanuncio Antonio José Vinha , Soares Marcus Alvarenga , Zanuncio José Cola , Wilcken Carlos Frederico
Published: May 2020

Abstract The adaptation of native lepidopteran species to eucalyptus plantations reduces the productivity of this crop in Brazil. Oxydia vesulia Cramer (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) is a secondary pest, frequently reported in eucalyptus plantations with population outbreaks and economic damages. Methods of biological control of this pest may include the use of the exotic pupae endoparasitoid Tetrastichus howardi Olliff (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), reported as efficient to controlling lepidopteran pests. The parasitism of O. vesulia caterpillars and pupae by T. howardi was evaluated under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 ºC, 60 ± 20% humidity and 12:12 h L:D). Each O. vesulia caterpillar or pupae was individually placed in a flat-bottom tube with 10 and 15 females of T. howardi for 48h, respectively. The parasitoids were removed after that period, the caterpillars were fed and the pupae were maintained until emergence of the parasitoid or formation of pupae and emergence of adults of this pest. The fourth-instar caterpillars of O. vesulia, after the parasitism period, were kept in pots with Eucalyptus urophylla leaves, changed daily until the end of the experiment. A total of 40% of the caterpillars died before the pre-pupae stage, 40% reached the pupae stage and died due to inadequate adult formation and 20% generated moths, but none adult parasitoid emerged from the caterpillars. All pupae of O. vesulia were parasitized and showed emergence of parasitoids. The parasitism of O. vesulia caterpillars and pupae by T. howardi shows the potential of this natural enemy for the integrated management of this defoliator pest in eucalyptus plantations.
BPA toxicity during development of zebrafish embryo
Authors: Scopel C. F. V. , Sousa C. , Machado M. R. F. , Santos W. G. Dos
Published: May 2020

Abstract Bisphenol A (BPA) is a monomer used in the production of polycarbonate, a polymer commonly found in plastics, epoxy resins and thermal papers. The presence of BPA in food, water, air and dust has been of great concern in recent years not only due to environmental and ecological issues but also because of its supposed risk to public health related to its mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. In this study we evaluated the toxicity of bisphenol A in zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio) and determined the 50% lethal concentration (LC50) of this chemical. BPA was used at concentrations ranging from 1 μM to 100 μM in E3 medium/0.5% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) from previously prepared stock solutions in 100% DMSO. Controls included embryos exposed only to E3 medium or supplemented with 0.5% DMSO. Camptothecin (CPT), a known inhibitor of cell proliferation was used as positive control at a concentration of 0.001 μM in E3 medium/0.5% DMSO. Adults zebrafish were placed for breeding a day before the experimental set up, then, viable embryos were collected and selected for use. Experiments were carried out in triplicates, according to specifications from Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). One embryo/well (25 embryos per concentration) was distributed in 96 well microplates in presence or absence of the chemicals. The plates were kept in BOD incubators with a controlled temperature of 28.5 ºC and with photoperiod of 14 h light:10 h dark. After 24h, 48h, 72h and 96h exposure, the exposed embryos were evaluated according to the following parameters: mortality, coagulation, rate of heartbeat, hatching and presence of morphological abnormalities. Photography was obtained by photomicroscopy. Apoptosis was evaluated by DNA ladder assay. DNA was extracted by phenol:chloroform method and analyzed by 2% agarose gel electrophoresis. DNA fragments were visualized after ethidium bromide staining in ultraviolet transilluminator. The LC50 determined for BPA was 70 μM after 24 hours, 72 μM after 48 hours, 47 μM after 72 hours and 31 μM after 96 hours exposure. BPA induced morphological and physiological alterations such as yolk sac and pericardial edema, hatching delay or inhibition, spine deformation, decreasing in heartbeat rate and mortality. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that BPA induced marked malformations in zebrafish embryos at concentrations above 25 μM corroborating the current concerns related to the widespread presence of BPA in the air, food and water used by humans as well as in the bodily fluids and tissues.
A conceptual model to understand the drivers of change in tropical wetlands: a comparative assessment in India and Brazil
Authors: Sarkar Priyanka , Salami Mercy , Githiora Yvonne , Vieira Raísa , Navarro Alma , Clavijo Diana , Padgurschi Maíra
Published: May 2020

Abstract: Tropical wetlands are amongst the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth and have immense socio-ecological value. However, tropical wetlands are considered exploitable resources and continue to be drained and converted to other “productive” uses. It is therefore urgent to identify and understand the interactions between various drivers of change triggering degradation of such wetlands. In the present study, we systematically reviewed and analyzed the existing literature on wetlands in two tropical countries namely India and Brazil with special reference to inland wetlands, and proposed a conceptual model illustrating the intricate linkages of such wetlands with different drivers of change. We also developed the Nature Futures’ Framework to depict the diverse values of inland wetlands contributing to human wellbeing in the two tropical countries. Findings revealed similar drivers of change triggering the degradation of Indian and Brazilian wetlands. These include changes in climate & land use, population growth, poor land governance due to weak policies, besides other anthropogenic activities such as deforestation, and overexploitation of wetland resources. Among these, land-use change such as agriculture intensification and infrastructure development were the major direct drivers; whereas, institutional and governance factors such as the absence of concrete policy measures were the major indirect drivers threatening the inland wetlands in India and Brazil. Results also revealed some contrasting drivers of change such as illegal human settlements, and land grabbing by the brick industry for Indian wetlands; while, gold mining and intensification of bovine systems for Brazilian wetlands. Our paper also provides an insight into the status of wetland conservation in India and Brazil. We recommend the promotion of community-based conservation practices while adopting sustainable livelihood strategies by the local people for the conservation and wise use of inland wetlands in India and Brazil. The arguments raised in the paper have the potential to assist the stakeholders and/or decision-makers towards implementing sustainable management strategies for inland wetlands in the two countries, and tropical wetlands in general.
“Siempre le he contado su historia”: prácticas y narrativas familiares sobre “los orígenes” en adopciones monoparentales
Authors: Rubio María Isabel Jociles , Agoglia Irene Salvo
Published: May 2020

Resumen Las familias “dependientes del discurso” (Galvin 2006), como son las adoptivas, se conforman mediante cuatro prácticas: nombrar (designar a los miembros de la familia dándoles un lugar en ella), discutir (hablar sobre la situación familiar), narrar (elaborar una historia de adopción para los hijos) y ritualizar (reconocer la adopción con celebraciones y actividades cotidianas). En este artículo, analizamos las tres primeras prácticas en familias adoptivas monoparentales españolas y chilenas. Entre los resultados más sobresalientes, se muestran en estas configuraciones adoptivas actitudes y prácticas de apertura comunicativa, que conllevan narrar tempranamente a los hijos las circunstancias que rodearon su adopción y hablarles de sus madres y padres de origen, realizando esfuerzos por desculpabilizar y empatizar con estas figuras, e incluso sumándolas como parte de sus familias extendidas desde una perspectiva de pluriparentalidad.
Obstáculos para protagonismo das frentes parlamentares em coalizões presidenciais no Brasil
Authors: Cascione Silvio , Araújo Suely Mara Vaz Guimarães de
Published: May 2020

RESUMO Introdução: O objetivo do artigo é propor novos métodos para a medição do tamanho e do grau de institucionalização das frentes parlamentares temáticas a fim de investigar seu papel na construção de coalizões no Congresso Nacional. A pesquisa partiu da premissa segundo a qual, para substituir os partidos na formação de uma base governista no Legislativo, as frentes parlamentares precisam de muitos membros e um mínimo de organização para interferir de forma consistente e previsível nas votações. O problema, no entanto, é a ausência de dados confiáveis sobre o tamanho e o grau de institucionalização desses grupos. Materiais e Métodos: Dois métodos foram usados para preencher essa lacuna. Para aferir o tamanho das frentes parlamentares, foi realizado um survey onde os próprios deputados e senadores puderam declarar sua participação nesses grupos. Para a medição do grau de institucionalização, foi proposto um índice, com base na literatura sobre partidos políticos, no qual os dados do survey foram combinados com entrevistas com uma amostra representativa e não-aleatória de 20 frentes parlamentares. Resultados: A pesquisa demonstrou que as frentes parlamentares são significativamente menores do que aparentam ser com base na única informação publicamente disponível, a lista de assinaturas para registro formal na Câmara dos Deputados. Com exceção da Frente Parlamentar Mista da Agropecuária, as frentes temáticas reúnem não mais que algumas dezenas de parlamentares e têm um grau de institucionalização relativamente baixo. Discussão: Os dados sustentam a visão, majoritária na literatura, sobre o papel predominantemente informativo e simbólico das frentes parlamentares. Embora possam ter influência em determinados momentos do processo legislativo, não parecem reunir condições mínimas para sustentar uma coalizão governista. As evidências apresentadas permitem também aprimorar a classificação tipológica das frentes parlamentares, constatando a existência de bancadas temáticas com praticamente nenhuma organização, de caráter meramente simbólico, e outras com núcleos bastante reduzidos de atuação.
A relevância das eleições municipais: uma análise da trajetória e da força política do PSB
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Dolandeli dos , Sandes-Freitas Vitor Eduardo Veras de
Published: May 2020

RESUMO Introdução: O artigo busca contribuir com as pesquisas sobre as estratégias políticas dos partidos, analisando o desempenho eleitoral recente do Partido Socialista Brasileiro (PSB). Exploramos hipóteses sobre o que determinou o lançamento de candidatos a prefeito pelo PSB nas eleições municipais de 2000 e de 2012. Materiais e Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada com base nos dados eleitorais disponibilizados pelo Tribunal Superior Eleitoral (TSE). Através de regressões logísticas multivariadas, testamos as razões de chance de o PSB lançar candidatos, considerando tanto variáveis políticas, quanto socioeconômicas. Em seguida comparamos esses resultados com os mesmos testes aplicados às candidaturas de PT, PSDB e PMDB. Resultados: Constatamos que o crescimento político do PSB é um fenômeno constante e não circunscrito à região Nordeste. Constatamos também que o PSB foi o partido que mais lançou candidaturas próprias nos grandes centros urbanos. Inferimos que a baixa capacidade de o partido protagonizar campanhas nos menores municípios é explicada pela fraca autonomia de suas lideranças locais. Isso decorre da fraca institucionalização da organização partidária, evidenciada pelo predomínio de comissões provisórias ao invés de diretórios partidários estabelecidos. Discussão: Analisamos a dependência do PSB de incentivos advindos da coordenação partidária em nível subnacional enquanto desafio à tendência de crescimento político do PSB nas eleições municipais. Este quadro deixaria o PSB mais suscetível a esse tipo de incentivo em comparação com partidos nacionalmente mais fortes.
Deliberation in parliaments: a review of the empirical, rhetorical and systemic approaches
Authors: Motos Carlos Rico
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT Introduction: This essay discusses three different approaches to the study of deliberation in parliaments: empirical, rhetorical and systemic. Materials and Methods: Through a critical review of the scientific literature, this work addresses some conceptual and analytical problems of the empirical-quantitative strategies aimed at measuring parliamentary deliberation, emphasizing the utility of the rhetorical and systemic approaches to grasp the agonist component of parliamentary debates and also their embeddedness within the broader political system. Results: The paper shows that deliberative dynamics within the democratic chambers cannot be reduced to a formal, closed and quantifiable debate. Hence, it proposes an alternative model for the analysis of deliberative processes in this institution. Discussion: The heterogeneous nature of parliaments recommends studying the deliberative phenomenon in different moments and instances, which includes formal debates, closed door meetings and even informal exchanges outside the plenary and committees. This view challenges the dominance of the empirical-quantitative framing of parliamentary deliberation in the scientific literature and supports a more holistic research strategy based on the combination of the empirical, rhetorical and systemic approaches.
Substernal Goiter: a case to remember
Authors: Macedo Sara Simões , Teixeira Mónica , Correia Andreia , Cabral Cátia
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY Goiter is a localized or generalized thyroid hypertrophy. It can remain within the cervical region or grow down until it invades the mediastinum. The signs and symptoms depend on the size and location of the goiter. Although drugs and radioactive iodine are often used to treat thyroid disease, the presence of symptomatic substernal goiter is a clear indication for surgery. Death or postoperative complications rarely occur. We present a case of a 71-year-old man with recurrent thyroid pathology in the form of substernal goiter and hyperthyroidism even after partial thyroidectomy. The importance of this relates to the clinical evolution, volume, and location of the goiter as well as the surgical and pharmacological approach.
Far-East “Orhon” Inscriptions (720-735 AD) in the view of Andrology
Authors: Verit Ayhan
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION The stone monuments named as “Orhon” inscriptions located in Middle Asia are considered the first written Turkish findings. Our aim was to discuss the contents and physical appearance of the monuments according to the andrological perspective. METHODS These inscriptions were composed of three stone monuments built in the years 720-735 AD, in honor of three Khagans (Ruling leaders). RESULTS Although the theme of the writings emphasizes the male-dominant ruling style of the antique Middle Asian migratory tribes, we claim that the most interesting point was that the phallus had a secret role in the perspective of the stone monuments. CONCLUSION The trilogy of power, state authority, and erection was monumentalized in 8th-century inscriptions. The signs of Andrology should be sought in history, archeology, and art to expand the esthetic horizon of modern medical sciences.
Musculoskeletal injuries in taekwondo athletes: a nationwide study in Portugal
Authors: Minghelli Beatriz , Machado Liliana , Capela Ruben
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY BACKGROUND Taekwondo is a martial art that emphasizes blows using the feet and fists, and it is characterized by direct and continuous body contact, which subjects their practitioners to a higher number of injuries. This study aimed to determine the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries in Portuguese taekwondo athletes and analyze its associated factors. METHODS The sample included 341 taekwondo athletes, aged between 4 and 62 years (18.77±12.77 years), 237 (69.5%) were male, and 104 (30.5%) female. A questionnaire was administered at a national level in taekwondo training and competitions via interview. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-two (38.7%) taekwondo athletes reported having suffered an injury since they began their practice, totaling 294 injuries. Seventy-six (22.3%) athletes had an injury in the previous 12-months period, with a total of 112 injuries. There were 2.15 injuries per 1,000 hours of taekwondo training. The most common of all injuries was muscle injury (strain, contusion) (58.6%), in the foot and fingers (18.9%). The attack technique (28.8%) was the most prevalent injury mechanism. Adult athletes presented a higher risk of sustaining taekwondo-related injuries than adolescents (odds ratio = 3.91; 95%CI: 1.13-13.55; p=0.032), and athletes who trained more than 1 hour had a risk 4.20 times greater (95%CI: 1.44-12.29; p=0.009) than those who trained up to 1 hour per session. CONCLUSIONS Injuries were frequent among Portuguese taekwondo athletes, with specific body areas affected, mainly caused by the attack technique. It is necessary to create injury prevention strategies, including specific training and the use of protective equipment.
Does periodontitis affect mean platelet volume(MPV) and plateletcrit (PCT) levels in healthy adults?
Authors: Ustaoglu Gülbahar , Erdal Emrah , İnanır Mehmet
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE Periodontitis may stimulate infectious and immune response and cause the development of atherogenesis, coronary heart disease, and myocardial infarction. The aim of this study was to compare the plateletcrit (PCT) and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels derived from complete blood count (CBC) tests in patients suffering from stage 3 periodontitis with those of healthy individuals without periodontal disease. METHODS The study included 57 patients (28 females and 29 males) with Stage 3 Periodontitis and 57 volunteering individuals (31 females and 26 males) who were periodontally healthy. The age of study participants ranged from 18 to 50 years. Their periodontal condition was investigated with probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, and plaque index. Leukocyte (WBC) and erythrocyte count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (HCT) levels, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and red cell distribution width (RDW), thrombocyte count, mean platelet volume (MPV), plateletcrit (PCT ), and neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were evaluated based on the CBC test results of the study participants. RESULTS PCT, WBC, Neutrophil, and MPV values were found to be significantly higher in the periodontitis group (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in RBC counts, Hb, HCT, MCV, RDW, and platelet and lymphocyte counts between the two study groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS PCT and MPV levels may be a more useful marker to determine an increased thrombotic state and inflammatory response in periodontal diseases.
The course of alterations in ureteral jet dynamics following kidney transplantation: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Celik Serdar , Acar Türker , Simsek Cenk , Yesilova Arda , Tatar Erhan , Bozkurt Ibrahim Halil , Topcu Yusuf Kadir , Sefik Ertuğrul , Basmaci Ismail , Gunlusoy Bulent , Degirmenci Tansu , Uslu Adam
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES To prospectively investigate the alterations and normal ranges of ureteral jet dynamics after double-J-stent (DJS) removal in patients who underwent renal transplantation (RTx). METHODS Patients who underwent RTx were prospectively evaluated between November 2017 and June 2018. After RTx, Doppler ultrasonography (D-US) was performed on all patients after DJS removal. Renal artery resistive index (RA-Ri), renal pelvis anterior-posterior diameter (RP-APD), pelvicalyceal system dilation (PCSD), and ureteral jet flow dynamics (maximum and average velocity; JETmax and JETave) were measured by D-US. Also, patients’ demographics, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels, and acute rejection were investigated in the study. Patients were assessed two different times by D-US, about 6 and 12 weeks after DJS removal, and the two different measurements were compared with the Wilcoxon test and Chi-square test. RESULTS A total of 25 patients were evaluated in the study. Nonobstructive PCSD rate (12% vs 8%), JETave (18.8 vs 12.9 cm/sec), and JETmax (29.2 vs 20 cm/sec) levels were significantly decreased (p values are 0.01, 0.010 and 0.014, respectively). In addition, monophasic and square pattern rates were significantly observed to increase over time (p=0.035); however, ureteral jet patterns were correlated between the two different D-US measurements (R=0.225, p=0.032). CONCLUSION After RTx, dilation rate and ureteral jet flow velocities were significantly decreased, and monophasic and square JETpattern rates were significantly increased over time. Ureteral jet dynamics can provide useful information about the follow-up of peristaltic activity in the pelvic-ureteric system.
The influence of phytoestrogens or estrogens on the proliferation of the rat endocervical mucosa
Authors: Franco Paulo Celso , Simões Ricardo Santos , Carbonel Adriana Aparecida Ferraz , Sasso Gisela Rodrigues da Silva , Florencio-Silva Rinaldo , Baracat Edmund Chada , Girão Manoel Batista Castello , Soares Júnior José Maria , Simões Manuel de Jesus
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION Although estrogen therapy is widely used against post-menopausal symptoms, it can present adverse effects, including endometrial cancer. Soy isoflavones are considered a possible alternative to estrogen therapy. However, there are still concerns whether isoflavones exert trophic effects on the uterine cervix. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the histomorphometric and immunohistochemical alterations in the uterine cervix of ovariectomized rats treated with soy isoflavones (Iso). METHODS Fifteen adult Wistar rats were ovariectomized (Ovx) and divided into three groups: Group I (Ovx), administered with vehicle solution; Group II (OVX-Iso), administered with concentrated extract of Iso (150 mg/kg) by gavage; and Group III (OVX-E2), treated with 17β-estradiol (10 µg/kg), subcutaneously. After 30 days of treatments, the uterine cervix was fixed in 10% formaldehyde and processed for paraffin-embedding. Sections were stained with Hematoxylin and eosin for morphological and morphometric studies or subjected to immunohistochemistry for detections of Ki-67 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (Vegf-A). The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS We noted an atrophic uterine cervix in GI, whereas it was more voluminous in GII and even more voluminous in GIII. The thickness of the cervical mucosa was significantly higher in GIII, as compared to GI and GII. The cell proliferation (Ki-67) was significantly elevated in the estradiol and isoflavones treated groups, whereas Vegf-A immunoexpression was significantly higher in GIII, as compared to groups GII and GI. CONCLUSIONS Soy isoflavones cause less trophic and proliferative effects in the uterine cervix of rats as compared to estrogen.
Conditions of vulnerability to the inadequate treatment of bronchiolitis
Authors: Neves Kattia Cristina , Vieira Sandra Elisabete
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE To analyze clinical and demographic variables possibly associated with the prescriptions of non-recommended but routinely used therapies for infants with acute viral bronchiolitis. METHODS A cross-sectional study included hospitalized infants with bronchiolitis caused by the respiratory syncytial virus. Those with other associated infections and/or morbidities were excluded. The data were collected from medical records. RESULTS Among 120 cases, 90% used inhaled beta-agonists, 72.5% corticosteroids, 40% antibiotics, and 66.7% inhaled hypertonic saline solution. The use of bronchodilators did not present an independent association with another variable. More frequent use of corticosteroids was associated with low oximetry, longer hospitalization time, and age>3 months. Antibiotic therapy was associated with the presence of fever, longer hospitalization, and age>3 months. Inhaled hypertonic saline solution was associated with longer hospitalization time. CONCLUSIONS Non-recommended prescriptions were frequent. Corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy were associated with signs of severity, as expected, but interestingly, they were more frequently used in infants above 3m, which suggested less safety in the diagnosis of viral bronchiolitis in these patients. The use of bronchodilators was even more worrying since they were indiscriminately used, without association with another variable related to the severity or characteristics of the host. The use of the inhaled hypertonic solution, although not associated with severity, seems to have implied a longer hospitalization time. The identification of these conditions of greater vulnerability to the prescription of inappropriate therapies contributes to the implantation of protocols for the bronchiolitis treatment, for continuing education and for analysis of the effectiveness of the strategies employed.
Stiffness degree of ankle range of motion in diabetic patients with atypical amputation
Authors: Simón-Pérez Eduardo , Simón-Pérez Clarisa , Alonso-Peña David , Pontón-Cortina Alejandro , Chicharro-Luna Esther , Martínez-Nova Alfonso , Navarro-Flores Emmanuel
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY In diabetics, foot deformities are risk factors that increase the risk of amputation as a result of developing ulcers. However, knowledge of the influence of plantar stiffness is still limited. The main objective was to describe connections between the degree of stiffness of the ankle, atypical amputation, and the Foot Posture Index (FPI). METHODS 62 diabetic patients, 58 with type 2 and 4 with type 1 (average age 63.35 years) were included. Records of foot deformities were included; A range of motion test of the ankle joint was used to determine the degree of stiffness. An exploratory analysis of the association of foot position and the degree of rigidity was performed. RESULTS The dorsal flexion range of the ankle was 9.6 ± 5.1 0, 13.8 ± 5.9 0 and 17.2 ± 6.5 0 and 20.5 ± 6.8 0 to 45, 67, 89 and 111 N respectively in the amputated feet., And 14 patients (22.58%) had a high level of pronation of IPF with an average value of 3.7 ± 2.629, CI (3.032.-4.367) in amputated feet compared to non-amputees. We use the device “Iowa ankle range of motion” (IAROM) to determine the differences in ankle stiffness. Proper IPF was associated with the presence of amputation and an increase in stiffness CONCLUSIONS There was an increase in the degree of limitation of movement of the ankle, as a greater force was applied. Comparing FPI between the groups, there was a higher frequency of prone feet in the group of amputees
Impact of intermittent fasting on body weight in overweight and obese individuals
Authors: Lima Carlos Henrique Ribeiro , Oliveira Iara Katrynne Fonsêca , Frota Karoline de Macêdo Gonçalves , Carvalho Cecilia Maria Resende Gonçalves de , Paiva Adriana de Azevedo , Campelo Viriato , Martins Maria do Carmo de Carvalho e
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE To verify the relationship of intermittent fasting in the bodyweight of overweight and obese individuals through a systematic literature review. METHODS This is a systematic review based on randomized controlled trials. The articles were consulted in the databases: Science Direct, PubMed e BVS. This review was evaluated through the PRISMA recommendation. RESULTS After the selection process, four articles were included in this review, comparing intermittent fasting (IF) with calorie restriction diet (CRD) as a control group. In 2 studies using similar protocols, there was no significant reduction in body weight of overweight or obese subjects. In the other two studies using different protocols, weight loss was significant in the IF group compared to the CRD group. CONCLUSIONS Results did not provide evidence of the effect of intermittent fasting on weight loss in overweight or obese individuals.
Serum ferritin levels is associated with acute myocardial infarction: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wen Shuang , Yang Liu , He Lianping , Liu Changwei
Published: May 2020

SUMMARY BACKGROUND An association between increased serum ferritin levels and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to confirm the association between increased serum ferritin levels and AMI. METHODS We searched PubMed and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) for relevant articles that assessed the association between serum ferritin and acute myocardial infarction using terms that included serum ferritin and acute myocardial infarction up to February 13, 2019. RESULTS A total of 11 studies were identified for analysis. All pooled analysis was based on a random-effects models. The variance was exhibited using a forest plot, and the heterogeneity among studies was examined using the I2 index, the publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot. The pooled standard mean difference of ferritin levels between AMI and controls was 0.78 (95%CI,0.68-0.88). CONCLUSION The results of this meta-analysis demonstrate that serum ferritin in acute myocardial infarction patients is higher than that of healthy controls.
Padrões de votação no tempo e no espaço: classificando as eleições presidenciais brasileiras
Authors: Braga Maria do Socorro , Zolnerkevic Aleksei
Published: May 2020

Resumo Em 2018, o Brasil realizou seu oitavo pleito presidencial pós-redemocratização, acumulando evidências empíricas cruciais para a análise das características dos processos eleitorais que podem ser responsáveis por mudanças substanciais na distribuição do poder entre os partidos políticos. A partir de base conceitual alicerçada em literatura internacional sobre eleições críticas, este artigo visa criar uma classificação para as eleições brasileiras. Como subsídio principal para essa classificação, é analisado simultaneamente, no tempo e no espaço, por meio da análise fatorial, o desempenho eleitoral dos primeiros colocados nas eleições presidenciais desde 1989 até 2018 em primeiro turno na escala das microrregiões brasileiras, buscando identificar as regiões de apoio duradouro e os períodos de estabilidade e mudança nos padrões de votação. Como resultado, as eleições presidenciais são classificadas em três tipos: mantidas, desviantes e convertidas (críticas).