bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cobertura do substrato na produção de mudas de cafeeiro (Coffea arabica L.)
Authors: Costa Alexandre José Almeida , Campos Lucas Pereira de , Freitas Aurivan Soares de , Rezende Ramiro Machado , Nogueira Júnia Rafael Mendonça Figueiredo , Alcantra Eliana , Nascimento João Paulo Vilela do
Published: February 2022

Na produção de mudas de cafeeiro, alguns produtores vêm fazendo a cobertura do substrato com saco de linhagem e lona, de forma isolada ou conjuntamente. Entretanto, não há embasamento científico para a aplicação da técnica. Dessa forma, objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a produção de mudas de cafeeiro em diferentes formas de cobertura do substrato. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro tratamentos e cinco repetições. Os tratamentos avaliados foram: 1) sem cobertura (testemunha); 2) cobertura com saco de linhagem; 3) cobertura com lona e; 4) cobertura com saco de linhagem e lona. Avaliaram-se o índice de velocidade de emergência (IVE), o número médio de dias para emergência, a emergência, a altura de planta, o número de folhas, o diâmetro do caule, a área foliar e o peso seco total de mudas. A porcentagem de emergência foi maior nos tratamentos cobertura com saco de linhagem e lona e cobertura de lona. O índice de velocidade de emergência foi maior no tratamento cobertura com saco de linhagem e lona, seguido pelo tratamento cobertura de lona. A área foliar, a altura de planta e o número de folhas foram maiores no tratamento com cobertura com saco de linhagem e lona. Para o diâmetro do colo, os maiores valores foram obtidos nos tratamentos cobertura com saco de linhagem e lona e cobertura com lona. Os tratamentos que apresentaram maior peso total foram os cobertos com saco de linhagem e lona e o apenas coberto com lona. Para todas as variáveis, o tratamento sem cobertura (testemunha) apresentou menores valores. Assim conclui-se que para a produção de mudas de cafeeiro recomenda-se o uso de cobertura com saco de linhagem ou lona.
Enterobactérias em sistemas de tratamento aeróbio de resíduos sólidos orgânicos domiciliares
Authors: Gomes Ivanise , Silva Monica Maria Pereira da , Gomes Rosilene Barros , Barros Adrianne Teixeira , Farias Fernando Luiz Barbosa , Silva Patrícia Maria de Freitas e , Luna Karla Patrícia de Oliveira , Ceballos Beatriz Susana Ovruski de , Araújo Elaine Cristina dos Santos
Published: February 2022

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar a presença de enterobactérias em sistemas de tratamento aeróbio de resíduos sólidos orgânicos domiciliares. O trabalho foi realizado em cinco etapas: contato com as famílias que praticam a coleta seletiva; estruturação e montagem da área experimental; desenvolvimento e adaptação de tecnologia para tratamento biológico aeróbio de resíduos sólidos orgânicos; coleta dos resíduos sólidos orgânicos nas residências e tratamentos dos resíduos sólidos orgânicos. Foram adotados dois modelos de tecnologia de tratamento: composteira de alumínio retangular (CAR) e composteira de polietileno cilíndrica (CPC). Durante o tratamento foi verificada a presença constante do grupo das bactérias Gram-negativas pertencente à família Enterobacteriaceae que persistiram até os últimos estágios da compostagem. O que representa alta capacidade de adaptação a diferentes condições do ambiente. Foram identificados nove gêneros e quinze espécies: Citrobacter (25,9 %), Enterobacter (14,1%) Escherichia (11,7%), Klebsiella (5,9%), Morganella (1,2%) Proteus (35,4%), Providencia (1,2%), Serratia (2,3%), Salmonella (2,3%). Observou-se que as maiores taxas de crescimento das enterobactérias ocorreram na fase mesofílica. As variações na densidade e diversidade das enterobactérias seguiram em conformidade com as mudanças das características físicas e químicas do substrato ao longo da compostagem. Portanto, de acordo com os dados coletados, há diversidade de enterobactérias nas diferentes fases do tratamento aeróbio de resíduos sólidos orgânicos domiciliares, correlacionando-se com as mudanças físicas e químicas do substrato.
Phytotoxic effect of Pinus Elliottii extracts on invasive plants from agricultural cultivation systems.
Authors: Haas Peterson , Kuhn Daniel , Cordeiro Sabrina Grando , Schweizer Ytan Andreine , Costa Bruna , Hoehne Lucélia
Published: February 2022

Among the factors that lead to low rural productivity, weeds are responsible for 34% of the reductions in agricultural incomes. The increase and uncontrolled use of agrochemicals such as glyphosate is increasingly requiring less-harmful alternatives to the human health and environment that ensure weed control and food security. This study, therefore, investigated a property called allelopathy encountered in the pine species Pinus elliottii, in order to evaluate the bioherbicidal potential of its allelopathic effect on invasive plants from pre- and post-emergent agricultural cultivation systems. Initially, the aqueous extracts obtained from Pinus elliottii needles were diluted in different concentrations and models according to the test to be performed. To simulate a post-emergent system, the extracts were applied to young individuals of Conyza bonariensis and Cyperus rotundus, both species of weeds. Subsequently, samples of the roots and aerial parts were collected and subjected to moisture and metal analysis. Acid digestion occurred in a microwave oven with the samples from each set previously dried to measure the amount of sodium (Na) and potassium (K) by flame photometry. With regards to the pre-emergent system, the interference of Pinus elliottii in germination and seedling formation factors of the Bidens pilosa species was analysed. In addition, the extracts were subjected to the analysis of organic compounds and acute ecotoxicity through tests with Artemia salina nauplii. The post-emergent test demonstrated a similarity in the phytotoxic effect of Pinus elliottii and the reference herbicide glyphosate, by reducing the humidity of the roots and aerial parts, which increases Na and decreases K contents, suggesting a metabolic imbalance in the plant that causes its death. The pre-emergent test revealed that the 16% extract (m/v) caused 100% inhibition in Bidens pilosa germination and the 8% extract demonstrated statistical significance by interfering in the delay and formation of seedlings and germination. Regarding ecotoxicity, Pinus elliottii indicated LC50 equals to 2000 ppm of the 16% extract, falling within the limit of toxicity that determines LC50 < 1000 ppm for toxic substances. Therefore, Pinus elliottii extracts revealed efficiency in both pre- and post-emergent systems and guaranteed toxicity within approved environmental standards, which serves as evidence of its promising phytotoxic potential and use as a bioherbicide.
Sensoriamento remoto aplicado em área de caatinga como subsídios para conservação da biodiversidade
Authors: Coelho Micaela Silva , Pereira José Diogenes Alves , Lucena Mycarla Míria Araújo de , Silva Rosilene Agra da , Oliveira Iaponira Sales de , Araújo Janny Eyry Farias Souza de
Published: February 2022

É notável que o modelo de desenvolvimento econômico atual não vem mostrando resultados satisfatórios quanto à proteção e cuidado com a natureza, pelo contrário, os impactos ambientais e sociais têm aumentado significativamente, alterando os ecossistemas e colocando em risco a biodiversidade brasileira, especificamente, no bioma Caatinga, objeto de estudo desta pesquisa. A Caatinga é um bioma rico em biodiversidade, contudo, vem sendo marcado pela crescente pressão e exploração dos recursos naturais. O uso insustentável tem causado a degradação de áreas e favorecendo o processo de desertificação, que já se mostra intenso na região semiárida. Nesse contexto, diante da relevância da conservação da biodiversidade deste bioma, especificamente a flora apícola, este trabalho objetivou identificou as classes de uso do solo e a cobertura vegetal através dos Índices de Vegetação por Diferença Normalizada-NDVI, Temperatura da Superfície Terrestre-TST e Índice de Vegetação Abastecida de Água-WSVI, numa área de Caatinga no Sertão Paraibano. Para isso utilizou-se das técnicas de geoprocessamento e do sensoriamento remoto para a análise desses índices, que mostraram uma variabilidade da vegetação e áreas de solo exposto. Os índices TST e o WSVI evidenciaram temperaturas amenas e maior umidade nas áreas com presença de vegetação, respectivamente.
Synthesis of the current state of ant knowledge in the Brazilian Amazon: a review
Authors: Silva Wully Barreto da , Cajaiba Reinaldo Lucas , Silva Wilks Barreto da , Périco Eduardo
Published: February 2022

In light of the expansion of deforestation in the Amazon and its importance for the balance and maintenance of essential conditions for human well-being, research is required to serve as a basis for decision-making regarding the preservation and recovery of Amazonian ecosystems. Considering the difficulty of studying the entire biodiversity of an ecosystem, research has been focused on key groups that can provide reliable and effective ecological information. Among the several existing species that are effective for such studies, ants deserve special attention because of their great ecological importance regarding the performance of key functions, in addition to being sensitive to environmental changes. To synthesize the information available in the literature, this paper presents a bibliographic review of the articles published on ants in the Brazilian Amazon. A total of 177 articles that covered a period of 52 years were found, with a significant increase in publications since the 2000s. Noticeably, there were a large number of studies based in the states of Amazonas and Pará, mainly near the capitals, which emphasizes the need to significantly expand the research collection areas. Most articles were published in the area of ecology, mainly concerning ecological interactions. Despite the advances in studies concerning Amazonian ants, there is still a lack of standardization regarding the sampling methods. In addition, there is a lack of studies that address the functional diversity of this group, which limits our understanding of the ecosystem services that are being lost owing to anthropogenic activities in natural ecosystems.
Produção de mudas de amora preta com substrato a base de caule decomposto de babaçu
Authors: Cordeiro Kleber Veras , Oliveira Paula Sara Teixeira de , Silva Amália Santos da , Barroso Vanessa Brito , Pachêco Maurivan Barbosa , Cardoso João Pedro Santos , Matos Raissa Rachel Salustriano da Silva
Published: February 2022

Na formação de mudas de amoreira preta-preta (Rubus spp.) é fundamental a combinação de substratos para se obter mudas de qualidade. Com isso, avaliou-se a influência do caule decomposto de babaçu (CDB) na formação de mudas de amoreira preta-preta. Conduzido em casa de vegetação com delineamento inteiramente casualizado com 6 tratamentos e 4 repetições, sendo: S1 - 0% CDB; S2 - 20% CDB + 80% S; S3- 40% CDB + 60% S; S4 - 60% CDB + 40% S; S5 - 80% CDB + 20% S; S6 - 100% CDB. Os resultados foram submetidos a análise de variância pelo teste “F” e as médias comparadas pelo Teste de Tukey a 5% de significância. Os tratamentos testados não apresentaram diferença significativa nas variáveis número de folhas (NF), comprimento do maior broto (CMB), diâmetro de maior broto (DMB) e comprimento radicular (CR), revelando independência das proporções. Para as demais variáveis, área foliar (AF), volume radicular (VR) e as massas fresca da parte aérea (MFPA) e massa fresca da raiz (MFR), os substratos produzidos com as maiores concentrações de caule decomposto de babaçu, favoreceram as variáveis destacadas. As concentrações de teores totais de nutrientes observado na análise química e as características física do substrato, devem ter proporcionado o desenvolvimento nas variáveis mencionadas. Embora a composição dos substratos testados em combinação com solo não tenha sido eficiente para as principais variáveis, o substrato contendo 100% de babaçu de um modo geral, mostrou melhor eficiência na produção de mudas de amoreira-preta.
Potential impact assessment between sst and extreme precipitation: an observational study in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Marangoni Paula , Souza Lucio Silva de , Filippo Alessandro Mendonça , Fernandes Alexandre Macedo
Published: February 2022

This work aims to identify, by means of statistical analysis, the relationship between extreme precipitation events and SST anomalies (SSTA) in the municipalities surrounding the Ilha Grande (IGB) and Sepetiba (SB) bays in the state of Rio de Janeiro evaluating its annual distributions using measured data from rainfall stations and relating these events to potential SST anomalies found in this region. Data from 10 rainfall stations distributed around the bays and SST dataset obtained from the Multi-scale Ultra-high Resolution Sea Surface Temperature (MUR) from 2003 to 2014 were used. SSTA and their average were generated for each of the three subareas delimited in the study area. The obtained time series of each subarea define the thresholds for significant SSTA, based on their respective standard deviation. The number of days with SSTA were obtained from these significant anomaly values, and days with positive or negative SSTA, for each subarea, were computed. For SSTA analysis, only events with significant anomalies were considered. Only SSTA occurring on the days of intense precipitation highlighted in P95 and up to 3 days before the extreme event date were analyzed. The results had shown that about 35% of extreme precipitation events were potentially related to the presence of significant SST anomalies in the studied area. Finally, it is pointed that regional anomalies in SST, such as those described in this study, can also contribute to the formation of extreme rain events.
Application of BIM in construction and demolition waste management: a review
Authors: Freitas Ludmila de Souza , Sgoda Cleverson , Nagalli André
Published: February 2022

Information technologies are increasingly adopted across the world to promote the efficiency of construction and demolition waste (CDW) management and alleviate the environmental and social effects of waste disposal. Therefore, many studies on efficient CDW minimization and management have been conducted. However, a systematic summary on the research development in BIM tools used in CDW management field is lacking. This study performed a bibliometric review on the latest research situation in this area by analysing published CDW management research in peer-reviewing journals in the period of 2010 to 2020, as well as follow-up qualitative discussion in application of BIM tools in CDW management. The bibliometric analysis initially identified 35 relevant studies that were analysed due a data analysis mapping with the assist of the Bibliometrix text mining tool. Finally, 14 articles were selected by filtering, that were classified according to the approaches found in data mapping, namely, information management, project management, interoperability, modular coordination, parametric design, big data, life cycle, demolition and deconstruction (end of life), circular economy and recovery and recycling. The determined categories were associated, and the research status quo is identified and addressed. Overall, this study contributes to existing research by identifying the current situation of the application of BIM technology in CDW management.
Controle e remoção de ferro e ph de água subterrânea por filtro confeccionado em escala domiciliar
Authors: Alves Nailde Pinto , Castro Jaelbe Lemos de , Sousa Mauro Alexandre Paula de
Published: February 2022

O consumo de água é uma das necessidades básicas essenciais para a sobrevivência humana. Devido à presença de altas concentrações de ferro que causa inconvenientes em águas de poços em domicílios no local de estudo deste trabalho, revela-se a necessidade do desenvolvimento de tecnologias alternativas capaz de remover o ferro e correção do pH para tratamento da água para o consumo humano. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o controle/redução da concentração de ferro e pH presentes nas águas proveniente de poços domiciliares, no bairro Santo André na Cidade de Santarém no estado do Pará, através de filtração. Para a filtração foi utilizado uma alternativa de tratamento simplificado, com filtro confeccionado de policloreto de vinila (Pvc) contendo materiais filtrantes, visando que os valores máximos permissíveis de ferro e pH na água do poço para consumo humano sejam respectivamente, 0,3 mg/L para ferro e pH entre (6,0 e 9,5), a análise física química da água realizou-se em duas etapas. Verificaram-se na primeira etapa os parâmetros ferro e nitrato em quatro poços, e detectado maior concentração de ferro no poço 01, com 4,36 mg/, neste outros parâmetros também foram analisados. Na segunda etapa, realizou-se o tratamento com o filtro no poço 01, e análise da água pré e pós-filtração para (ferro, pH e turbidez). Os principais resultados para a análise do parâmetro ferro foi redução do valor < 5 pré - filtração, para 4,46 mg/L pós – filtração, porém não atingiu o padrão adequado para consumo, o pH melhorou consideravelmente em duas análises e outra atendeu a Portaria da Consolidação nº 5, de 28 de setembro de 2017, do Ministério da Saúde, do valor de 5,80 pré - filtração para 6,06 pós - filtração, a turbidez foi de 4,61, para 13,0 fora dos padrões, e após repetição de 0,24 para 1,24 mg/L, aumentou, porém permaneceu dentro dos padrões da referida portaria.
Identificação e efeitos toxicológicos dos subprodutos gerados na degradação de microcistina-LR por processos oxidativos avançados
Authors: Soares Julya Karolyne Neres Costa , Albuquerque Maria Virginia Conceição , Leite Valderi Duarte , Sousa Jose Tavares , Lopes Wilton Silva
Published: February 2022

Dentre os efeitos deletérios provocados pelo processo de eutrofização de águas naturais, um importante destaque, deve ser dado ao surgimento de florações de cianobactérias e a consequente geração de cianotoxinas com potente efeito hepatotóxico (ex. microcistina-LR). A presença de linhagens de cianobactérias produtoras de cianotoxinas, tem efeitos negativos nos corpos hídricos e em particular nos destinados a abastecimento público, devido ao efeito nocivo dessas substâncias à saúde humana e de animais. Os tratamentos convencionais de água, se mostram ineficientes para a remoção total destas toxinas, portanto são necessárias novas tecnologias alternativas, como os processos oxidativos avançados. No entanto, essas tecnologias favorecem a formação de subprodutos desconhecidos. O presente trabalho buscou avaliar os efeitos toxicológicos dos possíveis subprodutos formados da degradação de Microcistina-LR através dos processos oxidativos avançados. Foram utilizados dados de 4 estudos de caso que empregaram dois processos oxidativos avançados: o UV/H2O2 e Fenton, para obtenção dos fragmentos de íons de m/z obtidos. Os estudos de caso usaram água de abastecimento e água sintética, contaminadas com Microcistina-LR em diferentes concentrações. Foi realizado a análise das amostras por meio de cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência acoplada a espectrometria de massas (CLAE-EM), utilizando o Espectro de Massa (LCQ FLEET) triplo quadruplo da marca Thermo Scientific de interface Electron-Spray Ion (ESI). Os softwares ChemDraw e ChemSketch foram empregados para formação das estruturas e fórmulas químicas referentes a cada fragmento. Para identificar a toxicologia dos fragmentos foram utilizadas as bases de dados Pubchem, Echa, Ecotox, TSCA e MolBase. Foram obtidos 33 fragmentos identificados nos 4 estudos de caso. Os primeiros subprodutos identificados apresentaram uma estrutura molecular cíclica intacta e ao decorrer da degradação foram sendo linearizados. Os fragmentos de m/z 967 e 553 tiveram toxicidade registrada pelas bases de dados. O tratamento UV/H2O2 gerou subprodutos tóxicos e moléculas grandes. O tratamento utilizando Fenton apresentou o melhor desempenho sendo indicado para tratamento de Microcistina-LR em águas destinadas a abastecimento.
Análise do índice de qualidade de água em função da sazonalidade na microbacia do Irurá no município de Santarém-Pará
Authors: Santos Zaqueu dos , Sousa Mirian Santos de , Santos Raquel Freitas dos , Lopes Ruy Bessa , Melo Sérgio Gouvêa , Moura Lucinewton Silva de
Published: February 2022

A microbacia do Irurá pertence à bacia hidrográfica do Rio Tapajós, localizada no município de Santarém, estado do Pará. O igarapé possui uma extensão de aproximadamente 9,29 Km da sua nascente até sua foz no Rio Tapajós. Seu leito vem sofrendo constante degradação, influenciado por ações antrópicas, principalmente, pelo uso e ocupação desordenados de sua microbacia. Faz-se necessário e é de extrema importância o monitoramento sistemático dos parâmetros de qualidade das águas nos corpos hídricos. O intuito do estudo é avaliar qualidade da água em conformidade com a legislação vigente e através das análises de parâmetros físico-químicos (potencial hidrogeniônico, demanda bioquímica de oxigênio, Nitrogênio Total, Fósforo total, temperatura da Água, Oxigênio Dissolvido, turbidez, condutividade elétrica, sólidos totais dissolvidos e coliformes termotolerantes e aplica-los no índice de qualidade da água utilizado para a avaliação da qualidade das águas de corpos hídricos. Por meio dos resultados obtidos, oferecer subsídios para as possíveis alterações nas características da bacia hidrográfica, ou buscar a recuperação de áreas que já estejam potencialmente contaminadas.
Indicadores como instrumentos de avaliação de sistemas urbanos sustentáveis no mundo e no Brasil
Authors: Medeiros Giselaine Maria Gomes de , Oliveira Rui de , Nascimento Ruth Silveira do , Silva Mônica Maria Pereira da
Published: February 2022

A sustentabilidade dos sistemas urbanos é uma grande preocupação dos gestores em todo o mundo. Especialmente, as cidades em desenvolvimento devem aprimorar as suas práticas de gestão para estabelecer sistemas urbanos sustentáveis.  Para que este tipo de sistema caminhe em direção ao desenvolvimento sustentável é imprescindível definir princípios,  estudar e avaliar a sustentabilidade nos critérios social, econômico e ambiental. Para mensurar a sustentabilidade é necessário utilizar métodos e instrumentos, como indicadores. Estes constituem parâmetros que fornecem informações sobre o estado do ambiente, gerando um valor quantitativo. Neste ínterim, o objetivo da pesquisa foi identificar os princípios, critérios, métodos de avaliação e indicadores de sustentabilidade urbana desenvolvidos e aplicados no mundo e no Brasil para auxiliar aos pesquisadores que trabalham com a gestão de sistemas urbanos. O levantamento documental foi realizado de novembro de 2020 a março de 2021 em periódicos científicos, com publicações entre 2016 a 2020. Foram listados e analisados 187 artigos. Nesse processo, foi imperativo ponderar alguns critérios de exclusão: não utilização de indicadores, foco desviado de sistema urbano e revisão bibliográfica. Ao final, um total de 49 artigos foi considerado para análise qualitativa e quantitativa. De acordo com os dados coletados, verificou-se que a integração do critério social foi o mais comum (33 artigos no total – 82,5%), seguida do critério ambiental (29 artigos no total – 72,5%) e econômico (27 artigos no total – 67,5%). Um total de 17 artigos utilizaram os critérios:  social, econômico e ambiental. Constatou-se que não há consenso sobre esses critérios, porém, identificou-se a interdependência entre eles. A sustentabilidade não é atingida, tratando-se e aplicando-se as dimensões isoladamente. Percebeu-se também que para avaliar a sustentabilidade urbana, a maioria dos artigos utilizou índices (38,8%) e outros métodos, tais como:  Avaliação do Ciclo de Vida, Análise de fluxo de materiais, Análise multicritério e Avaliação baseada em escalas. Portanto, o conjunto de princípios e indicadores de sustentabilidade urbana listado, permite apoiar futuras pesquisas, às comunidades e aos gestores urbanos para diagnosticar problemas e identificar pressões que fornecem informações úteis à intervenção social, econômica e ambiental, e, assim, alcançar a tão almejadas cidades sustentáveis.
Limnological analysis and survey of planctonic chlorophyce in the supply weir and in an effluent from the fish farming center Carlos Eduardo Matiazze in Presidente Médici, RO, Brazil
Authors: Silva Shadai Mendes , Magalhães Silva Thais , Dantas Filho Jerônimo Vieira , Alonso Nicholas Brito , Pontuschka Rute Bianchini , Santana Santina Rodrigues
Published: February 2022

The phytoplankton consists of a diverse set of algae that are important for the water quality of aquatic ecosystems. Studies have revealed that various organisms are directly dependent on microalgae, as well as being primary producers, they are irreplaceable sources of food. Therefore, the aimed of the study was to evaluate the limnological conditions and carry out a survey of planktonic microalgae in the Chlorophyta division of the Chlorophyceae class of the supply weir and an effluent from the Carlos Eduardo Matiazze Fish Farming Center, Presidente Médici, RO, Brazil. For that, the physical-chemical parameters temperature, oxygen dissolved in water (ODA), pH, transparency, alkalinity, hardness, electrical conductivity in water (CEA), carbon dioxide and total ammonia concentration (CAT) were analyzed. The results were compared with the norms established by CONAMA Resolution 357, of 2005 fresh waters, especially class 2. And also, the survey of chlorophytes was carried out, and the analyzes of the samples were carried out by means of slide preparations for immediate reading through the observation under the binocular optical microscope. The microalgae species of the Chlorophyta division of the Chlorophyceae class were identified in a taxonomic category of order, family, genus and species. The weir water showed acceptable values, according to CONAMA, for the parameters analyzed here for most of the year. The effluent also expressed acceptable values ​​according to the legislation, with the exception of dissolved oxygen with a value of 1.7 mg/L. Concerning the survey of chlorophytes, it was observed that the weir is rich and diversified, which can be an indicator of pollutants and contamination since the weir is exposed to a large amount of effluents.
Budget Saving Potential of Pegfilgrastim Biosimilar for the Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Febrile Neutropenia, in Italy
Authors: Berto Patrizia , Bellone Marco , Sabinot Alice , Pinto Carmine , Martino Massimo , Generali Daniele , Carriero Pier Luigi , Sanna Maria Domenica
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCTION: Current Italian guidelines recommend prophylaxis with granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSFs) to reduce the risk of chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia (FN). The availability of G-CSF biosimilars represents an opportunity for savings in the Italian National Healthcare Service (NHS) delivery of care.OBJECTIVE: To assess the cost saving potential associated with the introduction of pegfilgrastim biosimilars to local formularies, compared to the current G-CSF standard practice in Italy.METHODS: A budget impact model was developed to compare the current standard practice of long-acting (LA) and short-acting (SA) G-CSFs use, with a future scenario in which the market share of LA G-CSFs grows due to the more advantageous administration schedule and price of pegfilgrastim biosimilar. The analysis included G-CSF treatment schedules, drug acquisition costs and costs of patient management including hospitalization and ambulatory care.RESULTS: The introduction of pegfilgrastim biosimilar resulted in cumulative 3-year cost savings of € 59,650 and € 41,539 for FN prophylaxis in a potential cohort of 1000 patients with solid tumors and lymphomas, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that the introduction of pegfilgrastim biosimilar is potentially associated with substantial cost savings for the Italian healthcare system.
Positioning the role of qSOFA for screening and prognostication in critically ill medical and surgical patients with suspected sepsis
Authors:   Department of Critical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria and Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa, Paruk F
Published: February 2022

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Hearing the voices of COVID-19 survivors
Authors:   Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Shaddock E J , Richards G A
Published: February 2022

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Incidence, types and outcomes of congenital anomalies in babies born at a public, tertiary hospital in South Africa
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Mayer M M M , Velaphi S
Published: February 2022

Background. Limited information is available on the incidence of major congenital abnormalities (MCAs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Objective. To determine the incidence and types of MCA and associated all-cause mortality from a facility with a large delivery service in an LMIC. Methods. Births and neonatal admission registers of live inborn births between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2013 at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, South Africa, were reviewed for diagnosis of MCA. Results. A total of 201 infants were admitted with a diagnosis of MCA, of which 114 were inborn. This translated to an incidence of 2.60 per 1 000 live births. The cardiovascular (43.9%), gastrointestinal (21%), musculoskeletal (13.2%) and central nervous system (12.3%) were commonly affected systems. Most MCAs were single defects (75.4%), followed by trisomies (19.3%). A significant number of infants with trisomies were born to multigravid women older than 35 years (p<0.001). A significant number of infants with single defects were preterm (p<0.002) and of low birth weight (p<0.002). One third (34%) required surgical intervention before hospital discharge. All-cause mortality at hospital discharge was 20.2%, with more deaths among patients with trisomy 13 (50%) and trisomy 18 (40%) compared with patients with single defects (19.8%) or trisomy 21 (7.8%) (p<0.05). Conclusion. The incidence of MCAs found in this study is much lower than what has been reported from HICs but similar to findings from other LMICs. MCAs in LMIC settings are associated with high mortality rates.
Cochlear implantation in South Africa (part 1)
Authors:   Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, South Africa, Bhamjee A , Mahomed-Asmail F , Perold J , Loock J W , le Roux T
Published: February 2022

Cochlear implantation is a timeous and cost-effective solution for severe-profound sensorineural hearing loss, and has transformed the lives of many individuals with significant hearing loss. The advent of cochlear implantation has meant that, for the first time, one of the senses (hearing), having been entirely lost, can be restored. This, the first of a two-part series on cochlear implantation in South Africa (SA) puts global (and especially SA) hearing loss in perspective, sets out the principles of cochlear implantation and briefly sketches the history of this world-changing technology.
Rationalising empirical antibiotics for bloodstream infections: A retrospective study at a South African district-level hospital
Authors:   Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa, Engelbrecht A , van der Westerhuizen C , Taljaard J J
Published: February 2022

Background. Incorrect empirical antibiotic therapy is one of the factors that contribute to poor clinical outcomes and the development of antimicrobial resistance. Knowledge of the local infectious disease burden and antibiotic resistance patterns can assist with development of strategies, updating of guidelines and subsequent improvement in initial empirical therapy. Objectives. To determine whether the empirical antibiotic choice for treatment of septic episodes at a district-level hospital was appropriate according to national guidelines, and to describe the epidemiological features of the septic episode population being studied and depict their antibiotic susceptibility profile. Methods. This was a retrospective, descriptive study of adult inpatients with bloodstream infections at Karl Bremer Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa. Laboratory and clinical data were obtained and analysed for the period 1 July 2017 - 30 June 2018. Septic episodes were subdivided into community-acquired bloodstream infection (CABSI) and hospital-acquired bloodstream infection (HABSI) study populations, and empirical antibiotics for both groups were assessed and compared with the adult Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level Care, 2015 edition (STG and EML). Results. Our study sample consisted of 184 septic episodes, isolated from 176 patients. Nearly half of the septic episodes (49.5%) were hospital acquired. Overall guideline adherence in the CABSI population was 88%, compared with 58% in the HABSI population. The reasons for guideline non-adherence in the CABSI population were lack of source-appropriate empirical antibiotics (n=7) and septic episodes where empirical antibiotics were indicated but not prescribed (n=4), while in the HABSI group the main reason was that the patients were treated by community-acquired standards (n=30; 33.0%). The in-hospital mortality rate for a septic episode in this study was 38%. Considering the typical first-line antibiotics used, 77.3% of CABSIs were found to be susceptible to co-amoxiclav (n=75) and 59.8% to ceftriaxone (n=58). With the exclusion of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii isolates as confounders, HABSIs had a susceptibility of 86% to the piperacillin/tazobactam plus amikacin combination, 81% to ertapenem, 90% to imipenem and 93% to meropenem. Conclusions. This study demonstrates poor guideline adherence in HABSIs, emphasising the importance of distinguishing between CABSIs and HABSIs. The empirical antibiotics advised by the STG and EML were found to be appropriate in the majority of septic episodes. Future revision and improvement of prescribing practices can assist in rationalising empirical antibiotic decisions.
Not so rare: It’s time to raise awareness of rare diseases in South Africa
Authors:   Departments of Molecular Medicine and Haematology and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Jacobson B F
Published: February 2022

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Recency of HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy use and viral loads among symptomatic sexually transmitted infection service attendees in South Africa
Authors:   Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa, Kufa T ,   School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, Radebe F , Cutler E , Goosen M , Wiesner L , Greyling D , Maseko V , Kularatne R , Puren A
Published: February 2022

Background. Better integration of HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and treatment services is needed to accelerate progress towards the goal of zero new HIV infections. Objectives. To describe HIV positivity, antiretroviral therapy (ART) use, viral suppression and recency of HIV infection among symptomatic STI service attendees at two primary care clinics in South Africa. Methods. In a cross-sectional study, male and female STI service attendees presenting with symptoms consistent with STI syndromes were enrolled following informed consent. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was completed and appropriate genital and blood specimens were collected for STI testing and HIV biomarker measurements including recency of infection and antiretroviral (ARV) drug levels. Descriptive statistics were used to describe enrolled attendees, and to determine the proportion of attendees who were HIV-positive, recently infected, taking ART and virally suppressed. HIV-positive attendees with detectable ARVs were considered to be on ART, while those with viral loads (VLs) ≤200 copies/mL were considered virally suppressed. Results. Of 451 symptomatic attendees whose data were analysed, 93 (20.6%) were HIV-positive, with 15/93 (16.1%) being recently infected. Recent infection was independently associated with genital ulcer disease at presentation, especially ulcers with no detectable STI pathogens. Among the 78 (83.9%) with long-term infection, only 30 (38.5%) were on ART, with 23/30 (76.7%) virally suppressed. Conclusions. In a population at risk of HIV transmission, there was a high burden of recent infection and unsuppressed VLs. Incorporating pre-exposure prophylaxis, ART initiation and adherence support into STI services will be necessary for progress towards eliminating HIV transmission
Development of active tuberculosis in patients treated with biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
Authors:   Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa, Strong J , Mann T N , Tarr G S , Reuter H
Published: February 2022

Background. Biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) have been shown to be highly effective in the treatment of rheumatic conditions, but may increase the risk of infections. Development of tuberculosis (TB) while on bDMARD therapy is of particular concern in high TB burden settings such as Western Cape Province, South Africa. Objectives. To describe the diagnosis, management and outcome of patients who developed active TB while receiving a bDMARD. Results. Ten patients who screened negative for TB prior to initiation of a bDMARD subsequently developed active TB. TB was diagnosed between 10 months and 9 years from bDMARD initiation, suggesting new infection, and included 6 cases of extrapulmonary TB. All patients required multiple tests to confirm the diagnosis of TB, and all were successfully treated. Conclusions. TB can occur in patients on bDMARD therapy despite initial screening, and may have unusual, extrapulmonary manifestations that pose a diagnostic challenge.
COVID-19 constrictive pericarditis
Authors:   Department of Medicine, Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa, Whitelaw D A , Pohl T
Published: February 2022

COVID-19 has been reported to affect a variety of organs. We report a case of constrictive pericarditis in a patient who had contracted the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Other possible causes such as tuberculosis and metabolic causes were considered, but excluded by special investigations
Relations sociales, intimité et bien-être : expériences d’hommes immigrants gais en contexte post-migratoire québécois
Authors: Fournier Claudia , Hamelin Brabant Louise , Dupéré Sophie
Published: February 2022

Le Canada et le Québec projettent à l’international l’image de lieux multiculturels et accueillants pour les personnes LGBTQ+, étant donné l’égalité juridique et la relative acceptation sociale que celles-ci peuvent y obtenir. Plusieurs hommes gais qui choisissent de s’y installer espèrent accéder non seulement à de meilleures conditions socioéconomiques, mais aussi à un climat socioculturel et politique leur permettant une vie sociale et intime plus satisfaisante. Dans cet article, qui présente des résultats d’une étude qualitative, nous examinons l’expérience de vie au Québec et la quête de bien-être de 25 jeunes hommes gais ayant immigré récemment à Montréal ou Québec. Plus précisément, notre but est de montrer comment leurs expériences sociales et intimes façonnent leur bien-être en contexte post-migratoire. L’analyse de leurs témoignages, soutenue par l’approche de la sociologie de l’expérience de François Dubet, a permis de dégager quatre grands constats. Premièrement, vivre au Québec leur permet de se sentir plus acceptés comme gais par les autres et par eux-mêmes, élément central à leur bien-être. Deuxièmement, leur bien-être s’avère dépendre des possibilités de bien s’entourer dans leur nouvel environnement. Troisièmement, les milieux et réseaux gais, bien que sources de certaines insatisfactions, peuvent servir de portes d’entrée pour s’intégrer à leur société d’accueil. Quatrièmement, leur bien-être concernant leur vie intime est principalement lié aux possibilités de mieux vivre au quotidien une homosexualité autrefois contenue, entre l’exploration sexuelle et la quête souvent inaboutie d’une conjugalité stable. Cette contribution appelle à mieux prévenir les différentes formes de discrimination pouvant marquer la vie sociale et intime des immigrants gais en contexte post-migratoire, ainsi qu’à les accompagner davantage dans leur intégration à travers les milieux et réseaux gais, mais aussi à l’extérieur de ceux-ci.
Interpretaciones de los Padres de la Iglesia greco-oriental sobre la Domus Sapientiae y su influencia en el tipo iconográfico de la Anunciación del siglo XV / Greek-Eastern Church Father's Interpretations of Domus Sapientiae and their Influence on the Iconographic Type of the Annunciation in the 15th Century
Authors: Salvador-González José María
Published: February 2022

ABSTRACT: This article1 seeks to interpret the representation of Mary’s house shaped like a palace in some images of the Annunciation from an iconographic point of view, in the light of Greek Patrology, I start by analyzing some texts used by many Greek-Eastern Fathers to interpret several expressions such as domus Sapientiae, palatium Regis, aula regia, domicilium Trinitatis, and other similar terms alluding to some sumptuous dwelling reserved for God or the king. Taking these textual findings into account, I then analyze seven 15thcentury Annunciations in which Mary’s house in Nazareth is represented as a palace or a magnificent building. From the comparative analysis between these texts and these images, I conclude that the house of Mary depicted like a palace in pictures of the Annunciation symbolizes the supernatural incarnation of God the Son in Mary’s womb, as well as Mary’s virginal divine motherhood.
KEYWORDSDomus Sapientiae; Christ’s Incarnation; Mary’s Divine Motherhood; Annunciation; Greek Patrology; Marian Iconography.
RESUMEN: Este artículo busca interpretar iconográficamente, a la luz de la Patrología Griega, la representación de la casa de María en forma de palacio en algunas imágenes de la Anunciación. Para ello partimos del análisis de textos mediante los cuales muchos Padres Greco-Orientales interpretan en sentido cristológico y mariológico expresiones como domus Sapientiae, palatium Regis, aula regia, domicilium Trinitatis, y otros términos similares alusivos a suntuosas moradas reservadas para Dios o para el rey. Teniendo en cuenta esos hallazgos textuales, analizamos luego siete Anunciaciones del siglo XV en los que la casa de María en Nazaret aparece representada como un palacio o un suntuoso edificio. Del análisis comparativo entre esos textos y esas imágenes, concluimos que la casa de María representada en forma de palacio en imágenes de la Anunciación simboliza la sobrenatural encarnación de Dios Hijo en el vientre de María, así como la virginal maternidad divina de María.
PALABRAS CLAVESDomus Sapientiae; Encarnación de Dios Hijo; Maternidad divina de María; Anunciación; Patrología Griega; iconografía mariana.
Cooperation among c-subunits of FoF1-ATP synthase in rotation-coupled proton translocation
Authors: Mitome Noriyo , Kubo Shintaroh , Ohta Sumie , Takashima Hikaru , Shigefuji Yuto , Niina Toru , Takada Shoji
Published: February 2022

In FoF1-ATP synthase, proton translocation through Fo drives rotation of the c-subunit oligomeric ring relative to the a-subunit. Recent studies suggest that in each step of the rotation, key glutamic acid residues in different c-subunits contribute to proton release to and proton uptake from the a-subunit. However, no studies have demonstrated cooperativity among c-subunits toward FoF1-ATP synthase activity. Here, we addressed this using Bacillus PS3 ATP synthase harboring a c-ring with various combinations of wild-type and cE56D, enabled by genetically fused single-chain c-ring. ATP synthesis and proton pump activities were decreased by a single cE56D mutation and further decreased by double cE56D mutations. Moreover, activity further decreased as the two mutation sites were separated, indicating cooperation among c-subunits. Similar results were obtained for proton transfer-coupled molecular simulations. The simulations revealed that prolonged proton uptake in mutated c-subunits is shared between two c-subunits, explaining the cooperation observed in biochemical assays.
Overriding impaired FPR chemotaxis signaling in diabetic neutrophil stimulates infection control in murine diabetic wound
Authors: Roy Ruchi , Zayas Janet , Singh Sunil K , Delgado Kaylee , Wood Stephen J , Mohamed Mohamed F , Frausto Dulce M , Albalawi Yasmeen A , Price Thea P , Estupinian Ricardo , Giurini Eileena F , Kuzel Timothy M , Zloza Andrew , Reiser Jochen , Shafikhani Sasha H
Published: February 2022

Infection is a major co-morbidity that contributes to impaired healing in diabetic wounds. Although impairments in diabetic neutrophils have been blamed for this co-morbidity, what causes these impairments and whether they can be overcome, remain largely unclear. Diabetic neutrophils, isolated from diabetic individuals, exhibit chemotaxis impairment but this peculiar functional impairment has been largely ignored because it appears to contradict the clinical findings which blame excessive neutrophil influx as a major impediment to healing in chronic diabetic ulcers. Here, we report that exposure to glucose in diabetic range results in impaired chemotaxis signaling through the formyl peptide receptor (FPR) in neutrophils, culminating in reduced chemotaxis and delayed neutrophil trafficking in the wound of Leprdb (db/db) type two diabetic mice, rendering diabetic wound vulnerable to infection. We further show that at least some auxiliary receptors remain functional under diabetic conditions and their engagement by the pro-inflammatory cytokine CCL3, overrides the requirement for FPR signaling and substantially improves infection control by jumpstarting the neutrophil trafficking toward infection, and stimulates healing in diabetic wound. We posit that CCL3 may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers if it is applied topically after the surgical debridement process which is intended to reset chronic ulcers into acute fresh wounds.
Carbonic anhydrase 3 increases during liver adipogenesis even in pre‐obesity, and its inhibitors reduce liver adipose accumulation
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Uramaru Naoto , Kawashima Azusa , Higuchi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2022

The abnormal lipid metabolism in the liver that occurs after high caloric intake is the main cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Differences between samples from healthy livers and livers from individuals with NAFLD indicate that changes in liver function occur during disease progression. Here, we examined changes in protein expression in a fatty liver model in the early stages of obesity to identify potential alterations in function. The proteins expressed in the liver tissue of pre‐obese rats were separated via SDS/PAGE and stained with Coomassie brilliant blue‐G250. Peptide mass fingerprinting indicated an increase in the expression of carbonic anhydrase 3 (CA3) relative to controls. Western blotting analysis confirmed the increase in CA3 expression, even in an early fat‐accumulation state in which excessive weight gain had not yet occurred. In human hepatoma HepG2 cells, fat accumulation induced with oleic acid also resulted in increased CA3 expression. When the cells were in a state of fat accumulation, treating them with the CA3 inhibitors acetazolamide (ACTZ) or 6‐ethoxyzolamide (ETZ) suppressed fat accumulation, but only ETZ somewhat reduced the fat‐induced upregulation of CA3 expression. Expression of CA3 was therefore upregulated in response to the consumption of a high‐fat diet, even in the absence of an increase in body weight. The suppression of CA3 activity by ACTZ or ETZ reduced fat accumulation in hepatocytes, suggesting that CA3 is involved in the development of fatty liver.