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The increasing scarcity of water sources near urban areas, coupled with urbanization and population growth, necessitates the development of solutions that optimize water demand management, which entails a more accurate estimation of consumption patterns and implementing measures that promote the rational use of water. A stochastic residential water demand model was built based on the superposition of pulses of constant intensity and variable arrival time and duration applied to the microcomponent consumption at a 1-minute resolution, reflecting the aggregate system contributions to the total instantaneous demand. The model can support the planning of water supply systems (WSSs) and was calibrated using data from Brazilian institutes combined with a literature review of statistical data on users and end uses of water in Brazilian dwellings. Innovatively, it proposes using water demand forecasting to apply demand management measures evaluating the replacement of conventional devices for water-saving ones by analyzing hydrographs of 50–50,000 households, in addition to detailing the influence of the K2 peak factor. The results demonstrated a new water consumption profile with about a 40% reduction in water demand. A new equation for K2 is proposed as an alternative to estimate the demand for small populations fittingly. HIGHLIGHTS The model can support the planning of water supply systems (WSS).; From its use, it is possible to obtain essential characteristics for the dimensioning and operation of supply networks, such as maximum, average, and minimum flows, peak hours, per capita consumption, and consumption per appliance, among others.; A new formulation for the peak coefficient is available from the data used in the model.;

Background The present study aimed to investigate the effects of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) after three warm-up protocols on back squat performance in trained men. Methods Fourteen resistance-trained men performed conditioning activity (CA) with high-load (HL-CA), low-load (LL-CA), or usual specific warm-up as a control (CON). HL-CA consisted of one set of three repetitions with 90% of one repetition maximum (RM); LL-CA consisted of one set of six repetitions with 45% of 1 RM performed at maximal velocity; CON involved eight repetitions with 45% of 1 RM at controlled velocity. The participant’s performance was measured using the total number of repetitions and volume load (reps × load × sets). Results There were no significant differences between warm-up for the total number of repetitions (p = 0.17) or total volume load (p = 0.15). There was no difference between conditions for the number of repetitions (main condition effect; p = 0.17); however, participants achieved a significantly higher volume load after HL-PAPE than after CON for the first set (p = 0.04). Conclusion High or low equated-load CA used as warm-up strategies did not potentiate subsequent performance enhancement in multiple-set back squat exercise performed until muscle failure in comparison with usual warm-up.

ABSTRACT Forensic entomology has been developing in Brazil in recent years. In cases where traditional forensic methods cannot accurately determine the postmortem interval (PMI), entomological evidence can be crucial. In this novel study, we present the first results of the Forensic Entomology Division at Santa Catarina Scientific Police, southern Brazil, formally established in January 2022. From Jan 2022 to July 2023, minimum PMI was calculated based on entomological evidence in 34 cases. A total of 21 species of insects (16 species of Diptera belonging to 6 families and 5 species of Coleoptera belonging to 4 families) were collected from human bodies at different decomposition stages and in different types of environments. The most abundant and relevant species to estimate PMI were: Chrysomya albiceps (in 38% of the cases), followed by Hermetia illucens (18%), Oxelytrum discicolle (14%), Chrysomya megacephala (12%) and Peckia (Pantonella) intermutans (12%). Some species were reported for the first time colonizing human corpses in Santa Catarina and used for the first time to estimate minimum PMI in Brazil. Understanding the entomofauna present on a human corpse becomes an important tool in death investigations and is essential for forensic entomology applications. Our findings provide better understanding of entomological evidence from Santa Catarina State and have important implications for the advancement of forensic entomology in Brazil.

Case reports are extremely valuable in forensic entomology and very rare in Brazil. In this report we describe a case of multiple colonization of a preserved male cadaver found indoors in Santa Catarina State, southern Brazil, by four dipterans species of four different families: Fannia canicularis (Linnaeus, 1761) (Diptera: Fanniidae), Microcerella halli (Engel, 1931) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), Muscina stabulans (Fallén, 1817) (Diptera: Muscidae) and Sarconesia chlorogaster (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). The development time data of the species were used to estimate the minimum postmortem interval (PMI). Considering the methodology applied in this study and the values calculated for the species development, it was possible to estimate a minimum PMI of 24 days. Besides the diversity of dipteran species colonizing a single human body in an indoor environment, this case report reinforces the importance of these species as forensically indicator to estimate the time of death.

O presente estudo teve origem durante um levantamento no período de estágio na Fundação Estadual de Proteção Ambiental Henrique Luis Roesller – FEPAM. Dito isso, perante a atual situação que o planeta se encontra, especialmente pós pandemia, a geração de resíduos se tornou ainda maior e mais intensa. Porém, em 2010, foi instituída a Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos (PNRS), assim sendo, o objetivo da pesquisa consistiu em verificar a destinação dos resíduos sólidos dos 29 municípios que abrangem a região Sul do Rio Grande do Sul, e se eles cumprem o item de eliminação e recuperação de lixões, e se possuem aterros sanitários. Esse levantamento ocorreu por meio de questionário via telefonemas e/ou e-mails com setores ambientais das respectivas prefeituras, concluindo que a maioria dos municípios não aderiram até o presente momento a implantação de aterros sanitários nos seus respectivos municípios e fazem a destinação ambientalmente correta de seus resíduos para outras localidades.

Conclusions: There was a significant increase in the mean BMI and prevalence of obesity between 2003 and 2015. Moreover, women experienced higher body weight gain during their lives in both survey periods, mainly in early adulthood.

La presente investigación describe la relación de la gordofobia con los trastornos alimentarios según la perspectiva de un grupo de adultos-jóvenes de la ciudad de Medellín. El método tuvo un enfoque cualitativo, en el que se utilizó como instrumento principal una entrevista semiestructurada aplicada a nueve jóvenes con rango de edad entre los 18 y 26 años, todos con diagnóstico de trastorno de conducta alimenticia (tca). Los resultados evidencian que la gordofobia causa diversas afectaciones físicas, psicológicas y psicosociales en los individuos que padecen de tca, entre ellas se resaltan la presión social por mantenerse jóvenes, delgadas y canónicamente bellas, el aislamiento social, la vergüenza, la depresión, la ansiedad y la alteración del estado de ánimo. Además, sufrieron discriminaciones y afecciones en la constitución psíquica y la autoestima. En conclusión, la exploración de las experiencias y relaciones entre el tca y la gordofobia en adultos jóvenes de Medellín revela la complejidad de las interacciones entre la salud mental y la percepción corporal. Se evidencia la necesidad de abordar de manera integral los aspectos psicológicos y socioculturales relacionados con los tca y la gordofobia para promover un enfoque de salud más inclusivo. La investigación destaca la importancia de sensibilizar a la sociedad sobre la diversidad corporal y fomentar un ambiente que apoye la aceptación y el bienestar emocional, especialmente entre los adultos jóvenes.

Abstract Graphene oxide (GO) was electropolymerized with polyaniline (PANI) during graphite exfoliation in 0.1 M H2SO4 electrolyte and 0.1 M aniline monomer solution. Characterization techniques, including Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and cyclic voltammetry, were utilized. XRD analysis confirmed GO multilayer exfoliation from the graphite anode, while UV-vis and FTIR techniques confirmed PANI electropolymerization. SEM images revealed PANI distributed between GO multilayers with a nanoneedle morphology. Cyclic voltammetry in 1 M H2SO4 demonstrated that the GO/PANI composite achieved a specific capacitance of 117.440 Fg-1, in contrast to GO's 1.243 Fg-1, both at a scan rate of 1 mVs-1. This enhancement is attributed to the improved electrical conductivity from PANI and graphene oxide. These results highlight the potential of the GO/PANI composite for high-performance supercapacitors and energy storage systems.

Estudar o consumo e a demanda de energia elétrica é de vital importância para o desenvolvimento econômico de um país. Neste sentido, este trabalho busca analisar as séries temporais do consumo residencial de energia elétrica e o valor do índice de desenvolvimento humano no Brasil considerando valores anuais no período compreendido entre 1990 e 2018, bem como investigar o possível relacionamento de longo prazo entre elas, por meio do conceito de cointegração. Assim, primeiramente, foi constatado que as séries supracitadas eram estacionárias em primeira ordem por meio do teste de Dickey e Fuller aumentado (ADF). O procedimento de cointegração de Johansen confirma que existem evidências de que as séries possuem uma relação de longo prazo, tendo em vista que a hipótese de que existe um vetor de integração não pode ser rejeitada. O procedimento de cointegração de Engle-Granger apresenta um valor-p menor do que o nível de significância considerado (a saber, α = 0,05) nos resíduos do modelo estimado pelo método dos mínimos quadrados ordinários, fornecendo indícios de que as duas séries possuem relação de longo prazo. Palavras-chave: Séries temporais; consumo de energia elétrica; cointegração; Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano.

As atividades econômicas e industriais são as principais responsáveis pela emissão de poluentes atmosféricos. A emissão desses poluentes na atmosfera confere impactos em escala global, uma vez que contribuem para o lançamento dos Gases de Efeito Estufa (GEE), responsáveis pelo aquecimento global. O Rio Grande do Sul está localizado no extremo sul do Brasil, considerado o 4° estado com maior PIB. O escopo do presente estudo visa analisar as emissões de GEE no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul por setores, subsetores, atividades econômicas e municípios, utilizando os dados disponíveis de emissões e remoções da plataforma online SEEG. Os resultados mostraram que o RS, reduziu as emissões de GEE durante a pandemia da COVID 19, no ano de 2020, com redução de 4,6% comparado ao mesmo período do ano anterior, sendo a agropecuária o setor mais emissor de CO2eq do Estado, seguido pelo setor de energia, com a queima de combustíveis fósseis o principal subsetor responsável por estas emissões. O município de Candiota é o principal emissor do Estado, emitindo cerca de 2,77 milhões de toneladas de CO2eq com ano-base de 2018, enquanto o município que remove mais CO2eq da atmosfera é Horizontina, com remoções de -8.525,00 tCO2eq. Em relação às emissões do gás metano, o setor de agropecuária é o principal emissor, atingindo em 2020 mais de 1 MtCO2eq. Dentre as atividades econômicas mais poluentes no RS, estão: pecuária, agropecuária, agricultura e o transporte de carga e passageiros, somando em torno de 71,18 MtCO2eq. Logo, se faz necessário à implementação de planos e soluções para a mitigação das emissões de GEE em todos os setores no estado.

La presente investigación pretende describir las representaciones sociales que tienen las parejas jóvenes de Medellín sobre la institución familia. Por ese motivo, se hizo necesario conocer los referentes conceptuales relacionados con las perspectivas dadas desde la psicología social sobre las representaciones, sus construcciones y las diferentes actitudes y valores que pueden tomar autores o participantes sobre la familia. El método fue un estudio cualitativo de corte descriptivo transversal, cuyo instrumento principal fue una entrevista semiestructurada aplicada a cuatro parejas adultos-jóvenes de Medellín. Los principales resultados evidencian que la institución familia ha tenido cambios sociales a lo largo de su historia, en los que la percepción de familia permite asegurar la supervivencia y relacionamiento de los sujetos en el contexto comunitario. Por ese motivo, también se reconoce la importancia de comprender el pensamiento subjetivo de los individuos para, así, darles atributos a sus vivencias y conocer los planes de intervención en el ser que se pueden realizar desde la psicología social con el fin de contribuir a la comunidad y los grupos mayoritarios.

Hydrogen (H2) has emerged as a sustainable energy carrier capable of replacing/complementing the global carbon-based energy matrix. Although studies in this area have often focused on the fundamental understanding of catalytic processes and the demonstration of their activities towards different strategies, much effort is still needed to develop high-performance technologies and advanced materials to accomplish widespread utilization. The main goal of this review is to discuss the recent contributions in the H2 production field by employing nanomaterials with well-defined and controllable physicochemical features. Nanoengineering approaches at the sub-nano or atomic scale are especially interesting, as they allow us to unravel how activity varies as a function of these parameters (shape, size, composition, structure, electronic, and support interaction) and obtain insights into structure–performance relationships in the field of H2 production, allowing not only the optimization of performances but also enabling the rational design of nanocatalysts with desired activities and selectivity for H2 production. Herein, we start with a brief description of preparing such materials, emphasizing the importance of accomplishing the physicochemical control of nanostructures. The review finally culminates in the leading technologies for H2 production, identifying the promising applications of controlled nanomaterials.

In this study, the effects of pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs), sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS), and diesel blends on the ignition delay and burning rate are examined experimentally. For this purpose, single-droplet combustion tests were conducted in a combustion system for 21 days using CNTs at concentrations of 50 ppm and 100 ppm, which were dispersed in Colombian commercial diesel and stabilized by SDBS. Videos of the diesel droplet burning were obtained using a high-speed camera, and the Shadowgraph optical technique was used to observe the development of the droplet size during combustion. Thus, records of the process were collected, and the treatment was carried out using a MATLAB algorithm. The measurements and processing were carried out along with a stability study, which included measurements of dynamic light scattering (DLS), pH, potential Zeta, and properties such as thermal conductivity and surface tension. The results demonstrated that the temporal stability has a direct impact on the single-droplet combustion tests because a concentration of CNTs of 100 ppm showed a higher stability than those achieved by 50 ppm. Consequently, improvements were found with a concentration of 100 ppm—for instance, the thermal conductivity increased by about 20%, the ignition delay time increased by 16.2%, and the burning rate increased by 30.5%.

ABSTRACT Objective: Obesity is an important factor for cardiovascular and metabolic events. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of overweight/obesity and the associated factors among healthcare university students. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional university-based study of 2,245 healthcare university students in the Midwest region of Brazil was conducted in 2018. Overweight and obesity were defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, respectively. Demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, family and comorbidities characteristics were investigated. Poisson regression was used for the multivariable analysis. All analysis was stratified by sex. Results: The mean age of the sample was 22.7 years (standard deviation = 4.1) and 69.5% of the students was female. The prevalence of overweight and obesity were 13.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.2-15.6) and 4% (95% CI: 3.0-4.9) for women and 34.5% (95% CI: 30.9-38.1) and 11.3% (95% CI: 8.9-13.6) for men, respectively. After multivariate adjustment, the prevalence of overweight/obesity was at least 70% higher in female students aged 24 years or older (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.73; 95% CI: 1.24-2.41) and those who smoke (PR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.66-3.02). Additionally, female students with a family history of obesity (PR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.46-2.77) or with two or three comorbidities (PR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.43-3.04) exhibited a significantly higher probability for overweight/obesity. Similar findings were observed in male students, but with smaller effect sizes. Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of overweight/obesity among healthcare university students, especially in men. It was related to the socio-demographic and family characteristics rather than behavioral factors.

Resumo Introdução As escolhas alimentares podem ser influenciadas por apoio social e capital social. Objetivo Investigar as relações do apoio social e capital social com o consumo alimentar. Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal, de base populacional, com uma amostra aleatória de 1.098 adultos (≥ 18 anos de idade) de uma cidade no Sul do Brasil. O apoio social foi mensurado por meio da escala Medical Outcomes Study (MOS), e o capital social contemplou a avaliação dos indicadores de coesão social, apoio dos vizinhos, controle social informal, eficácia política e ação social. Para o consumo alimentar, utilizou-se de uma escala com base nas orientações do guia alimentar para a população brasileira. Resultados A média de idade da amostra foi de 44 anos (DP[Desvio-padrão] = 15,8), e identificou-se um consumo alimentar adequado em 38,6% (IC95%: 35,7 a 41,5). Após ajuste, observou-se uma probabilidade 40% maior para adoção de consumo alimentar adequado (saudável) entre os indivíduos com maior nível de apoio social (OR = 1,47; IC95%: 1,07 a 2,03), coesão social (OR = 1,40; IC95%: 1,02 a 1,92) e apoio dos vizinhos (OR = 1,45; IC95%: 1,04 a 2,02). Conclusão Os aspectos psicossociais, tanto individual quanto contextual, podem desempenhar um papel importante no consumo alimentar saudável em adultos.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a prevalência de dor lombar crônica e seus fatores associados em uma população de mulheres. Para isso, realizou-se um estudo transversal, de base populacional, com 1.128 mulheres com idade entre 20 e 69 anos e residentes na zona urbana de São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul. A dor lombar crônica foi avaliada a partir da presença de dor com duração mínima de três meses, e os fatores investigados incluíram aspectos sociodemográficos, comportamentais e antropométricos. Os resultados indicaram uma prevalência de dor lombar crônica de 46,5% (IC95%: 43,6-49,4). Após ajuste, os fatores associados à dor lombar crônica foram: idade, atividade física e estado nutricional. Observou-se uma associação com tendência linear positiva entre idade e dor lombar, assim como uma probabilidade 31% (RP=1,31; IC95%: 1,05-1,64; p=0,02) e 25% (RP=1,25; IC95%: 1,09-1,42; p

Resumo Fundamento A hipertensão é um importante e persistente problema de saúde pública, sendo uma das principais causas de doenças cardiovasculares e mortalidade geral. Objetivos Este estudo buscou verificar a prevalência e os fatores associados à hipertensão arterial sistêmica em trabalhadores da indústria do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo transversal com dados secundários de 20.792 industriários de 18 a 59 anos de idade. A presença de hipertensão arterial foi determinada a partir da pressão arterial sistólica ≥140mmHg e/ou pressão arterial diastólica ≥90mmHg, ou estar fazendo uso de medicação anti-hipertensiva. Os fatores investigados incluíram características demográficas, socioeconômicas, comportamentais, de estado nutricional e de história familiar. Regressão de Poisson foi utilizada na análise multivariável, adotando-se um p

Este trabajo corresponde a una reflexión crítica de las teorías de placer, sufrimiento y malestar en el trabajo, desde la psicodinámica del trabajo y las clínicas del trabajo. Se hizo un estudio cualitativo, en el que se analizaron diversos textos científicos en español y portugués sobre las clínicas del trabajo. Los resultados evidenciaron que, debido a su novedad, existe poca investigación sobre estas teorías en Colombia, tanto como subdisciplina y como posibilidad de intervención. Se destaca la poca atención que se presta al placer/malestar en los trabajadores, ya que se consideran conceptos de escasa relevancia para el bienestar de las personas en las organizaciones. Asimismo, se resaltan algunas de las diferencias entre el malestar y el sufrimiento, y su relación con la salud mental y la productividad en el trabajo.

Esta investigación describe las experiencias de placer y malestar en el trabajo de un grupo de futbolistas profesionales de equipos antioqueños. Metodológicamente se clasifica como estudio de caso, de alcance descriptivo, de enfoque cualitativo y de corte transversal. Se presenta la entrevista realizada a cinco futbolistas profesionales. Con relación a los resultados, los sujetos entrevistados dicen experimentar placer cuando reciben reconocimiento y cuando se cumplen con las condiciones de trabajo, también a raíz de las amistades que se generan, y al tener buenas relaciones con los directivos del club y con la hinchada. Por otro lado, refieren que experimentan malestar cuando no hay un reconocimiento de orden económico esperado, cuando no hay óptimos espacios para entrenar o para concentrarse, además ante la planificación inadecuada para los momentos de entrenamiento o la recuperación de lesiones, y por los desencuentros con otros compañeros de trabajo.

Com aproximadamente 1800 indivíduos, distribuídos em quatro aldeias, o povo Maxakali é a segunda maior população indígena aldeada no Estado de Minas Gerais. A avaliação da qualidade da água utilizada para consumo e lazer nesta população geralmente é realizada por meio de critérios de palatabilidade e visuais. Dessa forma, realizou-se um estudo descritivo incluindo amostras de água superficial e subterrânea consumida em quatro aldeias, considerando a coleta em três períodos sazonais durante o ano de 2015. Foram mensurados o pH (potencial de hidrogeniônico), turbidez, concentração de oxigênio dissolvido, condutividade, nitrato, coliformes totais e termotolerantes. As aldeias com maior número de amostras com valores superiores aos toleráveis foram a Aldeia Verde (100%), seguido da Aldeia Água Boa (85,7%) e Pradinho (71,4%). O oxigênio dissolvido e os coliformes totais e termotolerantes estiveram alterados em todas as aldeias, com percentuais superiores a 50% das amostras. A turbidez e a condutividade tiveram alterações detectadas em três das quatro aldeias analisadas. Assim, a água consumida por essa comunidade, in natura, conforme a tradição local, apresenta elevado risco para a ocorrência de doenças de veiculação hídrica nesse grupo populacional.

Background: Liver transplantation is the only curative therapeutic modality available for individuals at end-stage liver disease. There is no reliable method of predicting the early postoperative outcome of these patients. The Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) is a widely used model for predicting hospital survival and benchmarking in critically ill patients. This study evaluated the calibration and discrimination of APACHE IV in the postoperative period of elective liver transplantation in the southern Brazil. Methods: This was a clinical prospective and unicentric cohort study that included 371 adult patients in the immediate postoperative period of elective liver transplantation from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2016. Results: In this study, liver transplant patients who evolved to hospital death had a significantly higher APACHE IV score (82.7 ± 5.1 vs. 51.0 ± 15.8; p

Status epilepticus (SE) of limbic onset might cause degenerative phenomena in different brain structures, and may be associated with chronic cognitive and EEG effects. In the present study SE was evoked focally by microinfusing picomolar doses of cyclothiazide+bicuculline into the anterior extent of the piriform cortex (APC) in rats, the so-called area tempestas, an approach which allows to evaluate selectively the effects of seizure spreading through the natural anatomical circuitries up to secondary generalization. In the brain of rats submitted to SE we analyzed neuronal density, occurrence of degenerative phenomena (by Fluoro-Jade B-FJB- staining) and expression of heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) in the piriform cortex, the hippocampus and ventromedial thalamus. We further analyzed in detail, the loss of cholinergic neurons, and the presence of FJB- and HSP-70 positive neurons in basal forebrain cholinergic areas, i.e. the medial septal nucleus (MSN, Ch1), the diagonal band of Broca (DBB, Ch2 and Ch3) and the Nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM, Ch4). In fact, these nuclei are strictly connected with limbic structures, and play a key pivotal role in different cognitive functions and vigilance. Although recent studies begun to investigate these nuclei in experimental epilepsy and in persons with epilepsy, conflicting results were obtained so far. We showed that after severe and long-lasting, focally induced limbic SE there is a significant cell loss within all of the abovementioned cholinergic nuclei ipsi- and contra-laterally to the infusion site. In parallel, these nuclei show also FJB and heat shock protein-70 expression. Those effects vary depending on the single nucleus assessed and on the severity of the SE seizure score. We also showed the occurrence of cell loss and degenerative phenomena in limbic cortex, hippocampus and limbic thalamic areas. These novel findings show direct evidence of SE-induced neuronal damage which is solely due to seizure activity ruling out potential confounding effects produced by systemic pro-convulsant neurotoxins. A damage to basal forebrain cholinergic nuclei, which may underlie cognitive alterations, is documented for the first time in a model of SE triggered focally.

The Maxakali is the second largest indigenous population in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil; and parasitic diseases are its main cause of death. Problems related to the quality of water consumed by this population, added to the absence of public sanitation services, aggravate the risk of illnesses due to several water-borne pathologies. Thus, the main purpose of this paper was to evaluate the water quality consumed in natura by the Maxakali community, quantifying toxic metals in relation to the maximum values allowed by Brazilian law. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with samples of water collected in surface- and groundwater in the Maxakali villages, including three seasonal periods. Villages with the greatest number of altered measures of metals in water were Aldeias Pradinho (100%) and Água Boa (92%). The smallest number of changes were found in Aldeias Verde and Rafael (27%). The metals that appeared in the largest number of collections with values higher than recommended were Iron (50%), followed by Arsenic (46%), Aluminum (36%), Cadmium (22%) and Mercury (20%), respectively. The study identified high concentrations of toxic metals in the water consumed by the Maxakali indigenous community in Brazil.

En este artículo se describen las representaciones sociales de la vejez y del envejecimiento en dos grupos de mujeres en la ciudad de Medellín: uno de jóvenes y otro de adultas mayores. Se parte del concepto de las representaciones sociales sobre la vejez y el envejecimiento como maneras de conseguir sensatez con relación a la realidad convencional, lo que lo hace accesible a un significado común por el cual se comprende que la vejez es una producción de la sociedad, elaborada por la cultura y, específicamente, por la interacción social. Con un enfoque cualitativo se obtuvo la información a partir de encuestas, entrevistas y observaciones a dos grupos de mujeres en Medellín: uno de jóvenes de dieciocho a veinticinco años y otro de mayores de cincuenta a sesenta años. Entre los resultados y conclusiones se evidencia que existe un contraste con respecto a la percepción, la actitud y el núcleo figurativo, teniendo en cuenta el momento actual de la vida, pues no es igual estar en la etapa de la juventud que en la etapa de la vejez. Además, se debe tener presente que existen dificultades al momento de generalizar las características de la vejez en el ser humano, pues cada sujeto llega al envejecimiento con diversas experiencias de aprendizaje adquiridas en diversos contextos socioculturales, razón por la cual las características que se presentan en la vejez en relación con las funciones psicológicas y las funciones cognitivas se muestran de manera diferente en cada individuo.

Objective Apply a previously described scoring system retrospectively to cases of canine primary immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia ( pIMHA) to determine its accuracy and reliability for the determination of prognosis in Victoria, Australia. Methods Retrospective cohort study of 41 dogs diagnosed with pIMHA at the University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital ( UMVH) between August 2006 to December 2012. Results Of the 41 dogs included, 70.7% were female while 29.3% were male. The overall mortality in this study was 43.9%. The previously described prognostic scoring system when applied to cases of pIMHA in Victoria, Australia, was not found to show statistical significance for prognostification. None of the five prognostic factors were found to be independently significant for prognostification. Conclusion Application of the previously described prognostic scoring system indicated that it may not be reliable for predicting prognoses of dogs with pIMHA in Victoria, Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical exercise has been shown to have an important role in the prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension. However, the general exercise recommendations are time consuming, which might be detrimental to exercise adoption. Based on this, minimal doses of exercise have been suggested as an alternative approach and this report investigates the feasibility and effects of low volume and high effort resistance training for hypertensive patients in a hospital setting. This is a pilot non-randomized prospective study where 15 sedentary hypertensive patients (11 women and 4 men) performed 24 resistance training sessions over 12 weeks at a public hospital. The resistance training sessions consisted of two sets of four exercises, with a rest interval of two minutes between sets. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured 10 minutes before and 10 minutes after each training. No injuries or intercurrence were reported during the study. SBP decreased significantly when compared the first and last sessions, when the measures were performed at rest (152 ± 16 mmHg vs. 122 ± 9 mmHg vs, p

En el 2009, al tercer año de mis estudios de pregrado en Sociología, sabía que la sociología urbana era el campo de estudios que quería explorar. Así que no fue difícil llegar al libro de Julio Calderón Cockburn, La ciudad ilegal. Lima en el siglo XX, que aunque había sido publicada cuatro años antes, ya se había convertido en un referente para quienes se interesaban en comprender las lógicas de producción de nuestra ciudad, el papel del mercado en la expansión urbana y por supuesto la relación entre ciudad legal y barriadas.

Objective To compare the bioequivalence and 'switchability' of two formulations of benazepril (tablet and liquid) after oral administration. Design Randomised cross-over design, followed by parallel comparison. Methods Twelve mixed-breed dogs were administered either a tablet (Group A) or liquid formulation (Group B) of benazepril orally at 0.45 mg/kg daily for 4 days. With no washout period, the dogs then received the alternative treatment at the same dose for a further 4 days. Blood samples taken prior to treatment and serially after treatment were analysed for plasma concentrations of benazepril and benazeprilat and the activity and concentration of angiotensin-converting enzyme ( ACE). The calculated percentage inhibition of ACE was defined as the primary outcome variable. Results No statistically significant differences were found between groups A and B for any variable evaluated. The mean (± SD) percentage of ACE inhibition was 85.5 ± 7.04% for the liquid formulation and 85.9 ± 6.66% for the tablet formulation. The mean of the ratios was 1.00 (80% confidence interval 0.96-1.04). No evaluated effect term (sequence, formulation or period) had any statistical effect on any outcome variable. Conclusion This study supports a conclusion that, based on pharmacodynamic response, the liquid formulation of benazepril is bioequivalent to the reference tablet formulation. Further, the lack of a sequence effect supports the switchability of these two formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The aims of this study were to determine the risk of septic arthritis after intra-articular medication (IAM) and to identify potential risk factors for this complication. Design A retrospective and prospective descriptive study of prevalence, and matched case-control study for risk factors. Results Of 16,624 joints injected in 1103 horses at 6695 horse-visits, septic arthritis occurred as a complication in 13 joints (13 horses). The risk of septic arthritis following IAM was 7.8 cases per 10,000 injections or 1 case per 1279 injections. Veterinarian and type of corticosteroid were identified as risk factors. Conclusions Septic arthritis is an uncommon complication of IAM in horses, yet the risk is substantially higher than that reported in humans. The risk was higher for some veterinarians; identifying the reason for this was beyond the scope of this study, yet we presume they may have paid less attention to strict aseptic technique. A larger study may be needed to clarify whether the risk is greater with certain types of corticosteroids and to identify additional risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the long-term racing prognosis for Thoroughbred racehorses with displaced versus non-displaced fractures of the pelvis identified by scintigraphy. Design Retrospective case analysis. Methods Medical records of 31 Thoroughbred racehorses presenting to the University of Melbourne Equine Centre with fractures of the pelvis that were identified by scintigraphy were reviewed. Pelvic fracture site was determined and defined as displaced or non-displaced based on ultrasound and/or radiographic findings. Race records were analysed for each horse, with a minimum of 24 months' follow-up, and correlated with fracture type to determine long-term prognosis for racing. Results are expressed as median and range. Results Fractures at a single site were more common (n = 22) than fractures involving two sites (n = 9) and the ilial wing was the most commonly affected (n = 12). Thoroughbred racehorses with displaced pelvic fractures at any site (n = 12) raced fewer times within 24 months of diagnosis than horses with non-displaced fractures (n = 19) (median 0.5, range 0-13 vs 7, 0-24; P = 0.037), but there was no clear statistical difference in race earnings between the two groups (median A$0, range A$0-$123,250 vs A$14,440, A$0-$325,500, respectively; P = 0.080). Four horses with displaced fractures (33%) were euthanased on humane grounds because of persistent severe pain. When these horses were excluded from the analysis, there were no differences in performance variables between horses with a displaced or non-displaced pelvic fracture. Conclusion Thoroughbred racehorses with a displaced or non-displaced pelvic fracture that survive the initial post-injury period have a good prognosis for racing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the sedative, respiratory and cardiovascular effects of subcutaneously administered alfaxalone and butorphanol in a group of hyperthyroid cats. Design A prospective, single-centre observational study. Methods Client-owned hyperthyroid cats (n = 20) were examined and sedated with alfaxalone (3 mg/kg) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) administered subcutaneously. Sedation scores, heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure were measured at 15-min intervals during the 45-min observation period and compared with pre-sedation values. At the end of 45 min, cats were assessed to be adequately sedated for oral administration of iodine-131 if there was minimal resistance and an intact gag reflex. Results The maximum median sedation score was reached 45 min after injection. The lowest mean heart and respiratory rates and blood pressure values occurred 30 min after injection. Significant decreases were noted in respiratory rates at all three time points (P < 0.001). Systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure measurements were also significantly decreased at 15 and 30 min after injection (P < 0.05). Conclusion Subcutaneously administered alfaxalone and butorphanol can be used for sedation in cats undergoing procedures of short duration. Blood pressure should be monitored because of transient decreases observed in some cats. Further studies are required to determine whether the sedative, respiratory and cardiovascular effects are similar in euthyroid cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate associations between race performance and hoof-ground angle ( HG), pastern-hoof angle ( PH) and mediolateral hoof angle ( ML) of the left forelimb. Methods A total of 1570 starts were recorded from 636 horses, and meetings were equally divided between sand and turf tracks. HG, PH and ML were measured on each starter in a race, over a 3-month period, using a Finnegan hoof gauge ( Tallahesse Asia Holdings Ltd, Hong Kong) and digital photographic images. Race performance was recorded as win or place (1st-3rd). Results There was no association between the probability of winning or placing and gauge HG, photographic HG or photographic ML. There was a significant negative association between PH and the probability of winning on the turf track. On the turf surface, the odds ratio of winning for each 1° decrease in PH was 1.06 (95% confidence interval 1.01-1. 12). There was no association between the probability of winning or placing on the sand track and PH. Conclusions and clinical relevance Direct measures of hoof conformation ( HG and ML) were not related to racehorse performance in Macau. Lower PH was associated with better performance on a turf track. Further investigation into factors affecting PH and why it is related to performance are warranted. This study demonstrated that PH was associated with performance on a turf track. This information may be useful in the management and selection of Thoroughbred racehorses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Pyometra, a prevalent infectious uterine disease that affects intact middle-aged bitches, is typically associated with Escherichia coli. Our hypotheses were (i) that bacterial adhesion to canine endometrium differs between different stages of the oestrous cycle and (ii) that the adhesin FimH facilitates this adhesion. Twelve post-pubertal, ovariectomized greyhound bitches were treated with exogenous hormones to simulate different stages of the oestrous cycle. Tissue samples from each uterus were incubated with a pathogenic E. coli strain carrying the fim H gene, but no other adhesin genes ( P4-wt)-or an E. coli strain in which fim H was insertionally inactivated ( P4- ∆fim H::kan)-or with phosphate-buffered saline as a negative control. After washing, tissue samples were homogenized for quantification of adherent bacteria. The differences in binding to canine endometrium at different stages of the oestrous cycle were not significant. However, the mean difference in binding of the P4-wt and the P4- ∆fim H::kan across all stages of the simulated oestrous cycle was significant (p < 0.001 by paired t-test on geometric means). Individual differences in numbers of P4-wt bacteria bound between dogs might suggest genetic variations or epigenetic differences in FimH receptor expression by the endometrium, unrelated to the stage of the oestrous cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To measure the cardiac troponin I ( cTnI) concentration in horses and determine whether it could be used in the diagnosis of myocardial disease, as well as determining the association between cTnI and survival. Design Prospective, observational study. Procedure Physical examination, echocardiography, telemetric electrocardiography and postmortem were used to diagnose cardiac disease. Diagnoses were grouped as myocardial disease, structural heart disease or lone arrhythmia. Blood samples were collected at admission for cTnI analysis and the results were compared with those for 18 healthy horses. Results In total, 49 horses were admitted with cardiac disease. Elevated cTnI concentration (>0.03 ng/ mL) was observed in a greater proportion of horses with myocardial disease (7/7), compared with healthy horses (0/18; P < 0.0001), horses with structural heart disease (7/25; P = 0.001), and horses with a lone arrhythmia (2/17; P = 0.0001). The median cTnI concentration for horses with myocardial disease was 17.5 ng/ mL (range 0.78-49.87 ng/ mL), which was higher than in the healthy horses (0.01 ng/ mL, range 0.01-0.03 ng/ mL; P < 0.0001). Of the 49 horses with cardiac disease, the median cTnI concentration for non-survivors (0.28 ng/ mL, range 0.01-49.87 ng/ mL) was higher than for survivors (0.01 ng/ mL, range 0.01-30.31 ng/ mL; P = 0.0035). However, the proportion of surviving horses with an elevated cTnI (10/39, 26%) was not significantly different from the proportion of non-surviving horses with an elevated cTnI (6/10, 60%; P = 0.060). Conclusions cTnI is elevated in horses with myocardial disease and elevated to a lesser degree in some horses with structural heart disease or lone arrhythmias. The association between cTnI concentration and survival was not clear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Describe the association between the purchase price of Thoroughbred yearlings sold in Australia and racing performance as 2- and 3-year-olds. Methods Race performance data of 2773 Thoroughbred yearlings sold at auction during 2003 were collected. Associations between purchase price and the probability of starting, the number of race starts and the prize money earned were examined. Results In total, 2206 (79.6%) horses started a race. The mean number of race starts was six and the mean prize money earned was A$24,420. A total of 1711 (61.5%) horses earned prize money, 402 (14.4%) earned more than their purchase price, 312 (11.2%) earned more than A$40,000, the estimated cost of training, and 142 (5.1%) earned A$40,000 more than their purchase price. There was a positive association between purchase price category and the probability of starting, number of starts, earning prize money and earning greater than A$40,000 (P < 0.001). Purchase price category was negatively associated with the probability of earning greater than the purchase price (P < 0.001). The proportion of horses earning greater than the purchase price plus $40,000 was significantly different (P = 0.03) among the five price categories. Conclusion Yearling purchase price was positively associated with all race performance outcomes measured and researchers examining the race performance of yearlings purchased at sales should consider including purchase price when modelling. The Thoroughbred yearling market in Australia behaves in a similar manner to the United States market; owners pay a premium to enter the sport of racing and an additional premium in the quest to own a champion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To identify factors that are significantly associated with dentists' use of specific caries preventive agents in adult patients, and whether dentists who use one preventive agent are also more likely to use certain others. Methods: Data were collected from 564 practitioners in The Dental Practice-Based Research Network, a multi-region consortium of participating practices and dental organizations. Results: In-office topical fluoride was the method most frequently used. Regarding at-home preventive agents, there was little difference in preference between nonprescription fluoride, prescription fluoride, or chlorhexidine rinse. Dentists who most frequently used caries prevention were also those who regularly perform caries risk assessment and individualize caries prevention at the patient level. Higher percentages of patients with dental insurance were significantly associated with more use of in-office prevention modalities. Female dentists and dentists with more-recent training were more likely to recommend preventive agents that are applied by the patient. Dentists who reported more-conservative decisions in clinical treatment scenarios were also more likely to use caries preventive agents. Groups of dentist who shared a common preference for certain preventive agents were identified. One group used preventive agents selectively, whereas the other groups predominately used either in-office or at-home fluorides. Conclusions: Caries prevention is commonly used with adult patients. However, these results suggest that only a subset of dentists base preventive treatments on caries risk at the individual patient level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the effect of intrauterine cephapirin (0.5 g) treatment on the reproductive performance of cows diagnosed as at risk of developing endometritis. Methods Cows (n = 1325) from 17 seasonal calving dairy herds were enrolled if they had been calved for more than 6 days and had a condition that placed them at risk of endometritis. Half were treated with intrauterine cephapirin at an examination performed 28–37 days prior to mating start date (MSD). Cows were scored for body condition, their vaginal discharge was scored using vaginoscopy (VV), and the uterus and ovaries were assessed by rectal palpation. Results Overall, there was no significant treatment effect on reproductive performance. In 945 modified at risk (MAR) cows the effect of treatment varied with the calving to treatment interval (CTI) and VV status. For the subset of 229 MAR cows with CTI ≤ 28 days, treatment improved the proportions of first-service conception (OR 3.1; P < 0.01) and 6-week in-calf (OR 2.1; P < 0.05), and reduced the mean MSD to conception interval by 20 days (P < 0.05). The difference was greater in cows with a positive VV score (1–3). Treated VV-negative cows with CTI > 48 days had a reduced proportion of cows in-calf by 6 weeks (OR 0.58; P = 0.056) compared with untreated cows. Conclusion Intrauterine cephapirin infusion of MAR cows improved reproductive performance, depending on CTI. The greater treatment effect in VV-positive cows suggests that VV scoring is a useful tool for the diagnosis of endometritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We have recently shown that pharmacological blockade of mGlu2 metabotropic glutamate receptors protects vulnerable neurons in the 4-vessel occlusion model of transient global ischemia, whereas receptor activation amplifies neuronal death. This raised the possibility that endogenous activation of mGlu2 receptors contributes to the pathophysiology of ischemic neuronal damage. Here, we examined this possibility using two models of transient focal ischemia: (i) the monofilament model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in mice, and (ii) the model based on intracerebral infusion of endothelin-1 (Et-1) in rats. Following transient MCAO, mGlu2 receptor knockout mice showed a significant reduction in infarct volume and an improved short-term behavioural outcome, as assessed by a neurological disability scale and the “grip test”. Following Et-1 infusion, Grm2 gene mutated Hannover Wistar rats lacking mGlu2 receptors did not show changes in the overall infarct volume as compared to their wild-type counterparts, although they showed a reduced infarct area in the agranular insular cortex. Interestingly, however, mGlu2 receptor-deficient rats performed better than wild-type rats in the adhesive tape test, in which these rats did not show the laterality preference typically observed after focal ischemia. These findings support the hypothesis that activation of mGlu2 receptors is detrimental in the post-ischemic phase, and support the use of mGlu2 receptor antagonists in the experimental treatment of brain ischemia.

The wealth of recent evidence about a bi-directional communication between nerve- and immune- cells revolutionized the traditional concept about the brain as an “immune-privileged” organ while opening novel avenues in the pathophysiology of CNS disorders. In fact, altered communication between the immune and nervous system is emerging as a common hallmark in neuro-developmental, neurodegenerative, and neuro-immunological diseases. At molecular level, the ubiquitin proteasome machinery operates as a sentinel at the crossroad between the immune system and brain. In fact, the standard proteasome and its alternative/inducible counterpart, the immunoproteasome, operate dynamically and coordinately in both nerve- and immune- cells to modulate neurotransmission, oxidative/inflammatory stress response, and immunity. When dysregulations of the proteasome system occur, altered amounts of standard- vs. immune-proteasome subtypes translate into altered communication between neurons, glia, and immune cells. This contributes to neuro-inflammatory pathology in a variety of neurological disorders encompassing Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntingtin's diseases, brain trauma, epilepsy, and Multiple Sclerosis. In the present review, we analyze those proteasome-dependent molecular interactions which sustain communication between neurons, glia, and brain circulating T-lymphocytes both in baseline and pathological conditions. The evidence here discussed converges in that upregulation of immunoproteasome to the detriment of the standard proteasome, is commonly implicated in the inflammatory- and immune- biology of neurodegeneration. These concepts may foster additional studies investigating the role of immunoproteasome as a potential target in neurodegenerative and neuro-immunological disorders.

PURPOSE:To investigate the factors associated with a higher risk of noncompliance to tuberculosis (TB) treatment in Porto Alegre, Brazil. METHODS:We identified 478 adult patients for this case-control study undergoing treatment for confirmed pulmonary TB. Cases (noncompliance) were defined as patients who stopped treatment for more than 30 consecutive days (n = 118). Controls were defined as all patients who completed treatment and were cured (n = 360). Factors associated with noncompliance were calculated with unadjusted and adjusted odds ratio (OR). RESULTS:The rate of noncompliance in our study was 25%. The factors of noncompliance after adjustments in the overall population were, in order of magnitude, living in an area of lower income (OR = 4.35, 95%CI: 2.50-7.58), abuse of drugs (OR = 2.73, 95%CI: 1.47-5.09), nonadherence to a previous treatment regimen (OR = 2.1, 95%CI: 1.28-3.45), and history of smoking (OR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.00-3.00). Age, race, gender, level of education, HIV infection or diabetes status were not associated with a higher risk of noncompliance. In the subgroup of re-treatment cases, poverty (OR = 2.65; 95%CI = 1.06-6.66), smoking history (OR = 2.94; 95%CI = 1.09-7.92), male gender (OR = 3.25; 95%CI = 1.32-8.0), and younger age (OR = 4.3; 95%CI = 1.15-16.07) were also associated with a higher risk of dropout. CONCLUSION:Predictors of poor compliance to TB treatment were low income, abuse of drugs, re-treatment cases and history of smoking.

The emission of light by living organisms, bioluminescence, has been studied since the nineteenth century. However, some bioluminescent systems, such as fungi, remain poorly understood. The emitter, the two enzymes involved, and the reaction mechanism have not yet been unraveled. Moreover, the ecological role and evolutionary significance for fungal luminescence is also unknown. It is hoped that comprehensive research on fungal bioluminescent systems will generate knowledge and tools for academic and applied sciences. This review discusses the distribution of bioluminescent fungi on Earth, attempts to elucidate the mechanism involved in light emission, and presents preliminary results on the evolution and ecological role of fungal bioluminescence.

El objetivo del presente estudio es establecer en qué medida el costo de capital de las empresas medianas y grandes pertenecientes al cluster construcción en el Valle de Aburrá, presenta un comportamiento diferente en épocas de auge y de crisis económica. Se utilizó una metodología descriptiva que permite confrontar la teoría financiera con la información empresarial, obtenida del Sistema de Información y Riesgo Empresarial -SIREM- de la Superintendencia de Sociedades de Colombia para el periodo comprendido entre 2005 y 2009. A partir de esta información se calcula el costo de la deuda, el costo del patrimonio y el costo de capital, con el fin de analizar su comportamiento en el período de tiempo considerado. Como principales hallazgos de la investigación, se evidencia que no existe una diferencia marcada en el comportamiento en el costo de capital en los ciclos económicos considerados, hay un crecimiento moderado del patrimonio, siendo similar el comportamiento del costo de capital al del patrimonio.