Objective: The objective is to correlate the nursing diagnoses of the domain Safety/Protection of NANDA-I in critically ill patients with sociodemographic and clinical data. Method: A cross-sectional study with 86 ind...Objective: The objective is to correlate the nursing diagnoses of the domain Safety/Protection of NANDA-I in critically ill patients with sociodemographic and clinical data. Method: A cross-sectional study with 86 individuals was conducted, from October 2013 to May 2014 in the Intensive Care Unit of a university hospital in northeastern Brazil, through a formal interview and physical examination. Results: It was possible to identify a total of 20 significant statistical associations, and 15 were clinically justified by the literature, namely: risk for aspiration and reason for admission;impaired dentition and age;risk for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction and sex and comorbidity;skin integrity and comorbidity;risk for impaired skin integrity and gender and reason for admission;impaired tissue integrity and gender and reason for admission;risk for perioperative positioning injury and reason for admission;risk for thermal injury and age and comorbidity;delayed surgical recovery and reason for admission;risk for poisoning and years of schooling;and risk for imbalanced body temperature and age. Conclusions: By understanding the relationship between customers’ answers and the sociodemographic and clinical profile, positive health outcomes can be achieved in particular in the prevention of risks facing vulnerability characteristics, providing greater safety and protection for the critical customer.展开更多
Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile of children and adolescents who are victims of domestic violence. Method: This is a cross sectional and descriptive study, following a quantitative approach, conducte...Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile of children and adolescents who are victims of domestic violence. Method: This is a cross sectional and descriptive study, following a quantitative approach, conducted from September to December 2013, at the SOS CHILD service, in the city of Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The research protocol was approved by CEP/UFRN under CAAE 0166.0.051.000-11. Results: In the analysis of 69 children, the results were presented from three points of view: 1) the victim—female (56.5%), aged one to 11 years old (66.7%) and lived with one of the parents (43.5%);2) the abuser—female (60.9%) in the 14 - 23 years old and 34 - 43 years old, with the same percentage (24.6%), history of alcohol use and abuse (42.0%), the mother was the one who attacked the most (34.7%);3) types of violence, among the physical ones, the most frequent were slaps (43.2%) and punches (18.9%);the prevalence, among the psychological violence, were curses (35.4%) and abuse (27.8%);negligence, omission of care (73.5%), deprivation of care for personal appearance (18.4%);among sexual violence: sexual caresses (57.1%) and forced sex (42.9%). Conclusion: Children and adolescents placed in an unfavorable social-economic context, under the care of mothers with a history of use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs, are more vulnerable to intra-domiciliary violence.展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> To investigate the effects of the association of semi-ablative fractional radiofrequency (RFF) with growth factors in stretch marks. <strong>Methods:</strong> This ...<strong>Background:</strong> To investigate the effects of the association of semi-ablative fractional radiofrequency (RFF) with growth factors in stretch marks. <strong>Methods:</strong> This is a randomized controlled trial. The sample consisted of 28 female patients with complaints of gluteus or abdomen striae and divided into 2 equitable groups, named G1 (semi-ablative RFF without active principle association) and G2 (semi-ablative RFF with active principle association), being subdivided into G-1A and G-2A (abdominal applications) and G-1B and G-2B (gluteus applications). A photographic and histological analysis was performed using questionnaires about inflammation, presence of adverse effects and satisfaction of volunteers. Photographic analysis showed a reduction in the amount of striae alba in all groups. <strong>Results:</strong> The histological analysis showed an increase in fibroblast activity, collagen type I, and blood vessels, especially in the groups that associated the RFF with the active principle. In the inflammation analysis, the groups that performed intervention with active ingredients showed lower inflammatory signal. All groups had a reasonable level of satisfaction after the interventions;however, the group that used active ingredients reported greater results. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The association of semi ablative RFF with growth factors showed a reduction in clinical inflammatory signs, mainly in the first 15 days, as well as higher collagen production, verified in 30 days, with satisfactory clinical results in all groups.展开更多
Background: Contraceptive methods (CM) are important resources in the prevention of adolescent pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate adolescent knowledge, attitudes and practices related to contraception. Study D...Background: Contraceptive methods (CM) are important resources in the prevention of adolescent pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate adolescent knowledge, attitudes and practices related to contraception. Study Design: A cross-sectional and exploratory study was conducted with 7th to 9th grade adolescents in northeastern Brazil. Their knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive method use were analysed by gender, age and sexual initiation groups. Results: A sexual debut had been experienced by 21% (n = 120) of all respondents (n = 570). The majority of the respondents who had experienced a sexual debut were male (73.3%, n = 88), their mean age was 15 years (SD = 1.46), and 49.3% (n = 59) never used any CM. The participants displayed low knowledge and unfavourable and ambivalent attitudes concerning contraception. Conclusion: Adolescents initiate sexual intercourse with knowledge and attitudes that limit the use of CM, which makes them more at risk of pregnancy. Further research that will be representative of the specific population in need of interventions is necessary.展开更多
Conventional sliding mode controllers are based on the assumption of switching control, but a well-known drawback of such controllers is the chattering phenomenon. To overcome the undesirable chattering effects, the d...Conventional sliding mode controllers are based on the assumption of switching control, but a well-known drawback of such controllers is the chattering phenomenon. To overcome the undesirable chattering effects, the discontinuity in the control law can be smoothed out in a thin boundary layer neighboring the switching surface. In this paper, rigorous proofs of the boundedness and convergence properties of smooth sliding mode controllers are presented. This result corrects flawed conclusions previously reached in the literature. An illustrative example is also presented in order to confirm the convergence of the tracking error vector to the defined bounded region.展开更多
Double cecal appendix is a rare anatomical variation. Approximately 100 cases have been reported worldwide. It is usually diagnosed incidentally during emergency appendectomies due to inflammatory processes in the cec...Double cecal appendix is a rare anatomical variation. Approximately 100 cases have been reported worldwide. It is usually diagnosed incidentally during emergency appendectomies due to inflammatory processes in the cecal appendix. Case presentation: male, white, 36 years old, obese, presenting with pain in the lower abdomen for 24 h followed by nausea, vomiting and mild fever. He was subjected to additional tests, with the leukogram showing leukocytosis and abdominal ultrasonography depicting cecal appendix with thickened wall, locally associated with small quantities of liquid and intestinal loop obstruction. He underwent laparotomy, revealing acute appendicitis. Another intestinal loop obstruction was identified next to the ileum, leading to recognizing another cecal appendix after local dissection. Double appendectomy and segmental iliectomy were performed although not needed. Results of the anatomopathological examination of the surgical samples showed acute inflammation in the two cecal appendices. So, performing a routine retroperitoneal release and a complete cecum evaluation during such surgical procedures is recommended and suggested due to the possibility of not identifying a second cecal appendix.展开更多
AIM: To systematically review the literature on the efficacy of noninvasive methods of arresting the progression of non-cavitated occlusal carious lesions in dentin.METHODS: The Medline/Pub Med,LILACS,Sci ELO and Scop...AIM: To systematically review the literature on the efficacy of noninvasive methods of arresting the progression of non-cavitated occlusal carious lesions in dentin.METHODS: The Medline/Pub Med,LILACS,Sci ELO and Scopus databases were searched to identify relevant publications through to November 2013.Only clinical trials evaluating the ability of noninvasive methods to arrest the progression of occlusal non-cavitated carious lesions in dentin were included.Screening,data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently and in duplicate.RESULTS: Of 167 citations identified,nine full text articles were screened and five were included in the analysis.All papers reported on occlusal fissure sealing using a self-curing glass ionomer(n = 1) or resin-based(n = 4) sealant.Only the use of resin-based sealant to obliterate occlusal fissures arrested the progression of non-cavitated occlusal carious lesions in dentin.CONCLUSION: Occlusal fissure sealing with a resin-based sealant may arrest the progression of non-cavitated occlusal dentinal caries.Further clinical trials with longer follow-up times should be performed to increase scientific evidence.展开更多
A hybrid GMDH neural network model has been developed in order to predict the partition coefficients of invertase from Baker's yeast. ATPS experiments were carried out changing the molar average mass of PEG(1500–...A hybrid GMDH neural network model has been developed in order to predict the partition coefficients of invertase from Baker's yeast. ATPS experiments were carried out changing the molar average mass of PEG(1500–6000 Da), p H(4.0–7.0), percentage of PEG(10.0–20.0 w/w), percentage of MgSO_4(8.0–16.0 w/w), percentage of the cell homogenate(10.0–20.0 w/w) and the percentage of MnSO_4(0–5.0 w/w) added as cosolute. The network evaluation was carried out comparing the partition coefficients obtained from the hybrid GMDH neural network with the experimental data using different statistical metrics. The hybrid GMDH neural network model showed better fitting(AARD = 32.752%) as well as good generalization capacity of the partition coefficients of the ATPS than the original GMDH network approach and a BPANN model. Therefore hybrid GMDH neural network model appears as a powerful tool for predicting partition coefficients during downstream processing of biomolecules.展开更多
A new experimental approach to assess the impact of soil confinement on the long-term behavior of geosynthetics is presented in this paper.The experimental technique described herein includes a novel laboratory appara...A new experimental approach to assess the impact of soil confinement on the long-term behavior of geosynthetics is presented in this paper.The experimental technique described herein includes a novel laboratory apparatus and the use of different types of tests that allow generation of experimental data suitable for evaluation of the time-dependent behavior of geosynthetics under soil confinement.The soil-geosynthetic interaction equipment involves a rigid box capable of accommodating a cubic soil mass under plane strain conditions.A geosynthetic specimen placed horizontally at the mid-height of the soil mass is subjected to sustained vertical pressures that,in turn,induce reinforcement axial loads applied from the soil to the geosynthetic.Unlike previously reported studies on geosynthetic behavior under soil confinement,the equipment was found to be particularly versatile.With minor setup modifications,not only interaction tests but also in-isolation geosynthetic stress relaxation tests and soil-only tests under a constant strain rate can be conducted using the same device.Also,the time histories of the reinforcement loads and corresponding strains are generated throughout the test.Results from typical tests conducted using sand and a polypropylene woven geotextile are presented to illustrate the proposed experimental approach.The testing procedure was found to provide adequate measurements during tests,including good repeatability of test results.The soilegeosynthetic interaction tests were found to lead to increasing geotextile strains with time and decreasing reinforcement tension with time.The test results highlighted the importance of measuring not only the time history of displacements but also that of reinforcement loads during testing.The approach of using different types of tests to analyze the soilegeosynthetic interaction behavior is an innovation that provides relevant insight into the impact of soil confinement on the time-dependent deformations of geosynthetics.展开更多
Purpose:To investigate whether blood flow restriction(BFR) without concomitant exercise mitigated strength reduction and atrophy of thigh muscles in subjects under immobilization for lower limbs.Methods:The following ...Purpose:To investigate whether blood flow restriction(BFR) without concomitant exercise mitigated strength reduction and atrophy of thigh muscles in subjects under immobilization for lower limbs.Methods:The following databases were searched:PubMed,CINAHL,PEDro,Web of Science,Central,and Scopus.Results:The search identified 3 eligible studies,and the total sample in the identified studies consisted of 38 participants.Isokinetic and isometric torque of the knee flexors and extensors was examined in 2 studies.Cross-sectional area of thigh muscles was evaluated in 1 study,and thigh girth was measured in 2 studies.The BFR protocol was 5 sets of 5 min of occlusion and 3 min of free flow,twice daily for approximately 2 weeks.As a whole,the included studies indicate that BFR without exercise is able to minimize strength reduction and muscular atrophy after immobilization.It is crucial to emphasize,however,that the included studies showed a high risk of bias,especially regarding allocation concealment,blinding of outcome assessment,intention-to-treat analyses,and group similarity at baseline.Conclusion:Although potentially useful,the high risk of bias presented by original stodies limits the indication of BFR without concomitant exercise as an effective countermeasure against strength reduction and atrophy mediated by immobilization.展开更多
The main objective of this paper was to evaluate the daily actual evapotranspiration (ET) accuracy obtained by remote sensing algorithms when compared with Bowen ratio measurements performed in the cotton fields. The ...The main objective of this paper was to evaluate the daily actual evapotranspiration (ET) accuracy obtained by remote sensing algorithms when compared with Bowen ratio measurements performed in the cotton fields. The experiment was conducted in a cotton experimental field of EMBRAPA located in Ceará State, Brazil. Seven TM Landsat-5 images acquired in 2005 and 2008 were used to perform SEBAL and SSEB algorithms. The comparison between the estimated values by remoting sensing algorithms and the measured values in situ showed an acceptable accuracy. Besides, SSEB algorithm showed to be an important tool for ET analysis in the semi-arid regions, due to the fact that it does not need the meteorological data to solve the energy balance, but only the average temperature of the “hot” and “cold” pixels. Additionally, SSEB presents simpler processing than SEBAL algorithm that needs to solve an iterative process to obtain the sensible heat flux values.展开更多
Introduction: Micro focused ultrasound (MFU) is formed by mechanical waves emitted in a focused manner, concentrating thermal energy on a certain point or region, promoting a clinical improvement in wrinkles. Objectiv...Introduction: Micro focused ultrasound (MFU) is formed by mechanical waves emitted in a focused manner, concentrating thermal energy on a certain point or region, promoting a clinical improvement in wrinkles. Objective: evaluate the effects of micro focused ultrasound on facial rejuvenation. Methodology: This is an experimental study. The sample consisted of 30 volunteers, who were evaluated before treatment, 45 and 90 days after its beginning. A single application of the MFU was performed across the facial region. The parameters used were: 10 MHz cartridge with depth of 1.5 mm, 7 MHz with depth of 3 mm, and 4 MHz with focal depth of 4.5 mm;doses ranged from 0.1 to 2.0 J, according to the sensitivity of the volunteers treated, and the application time was of approximately 90 minutes. Clinical photographic analysis and facial symmetry analysis using Dolphin Imaging software were performed, and validated questionnaires. Two volunteers were submitted to blepharoplasty surgery, and one to rhytidoplasty surgery 45 days after the application of the MFU. Samples of the treated skin were taken after the surgical procedures and submitted to histological and immunohistochemical analyses. The volunteers answered a questionnaire to assess adverse reactions and satisfaction. Results: We observed a visible clinical improvement on the images by photography, and an improvement of facial symmetry in the measurements of the paralateronasal projection (p = 0.007), left lateral mandibular (p = 0.01), and right lateral mandibular (p = 0.008). The histological analysis showed an increase in the amount of fibroblasts (p = 0.02), blood vessels (p = 0.0062) and inflammatory cells (p = 0.0036), in addition to the production of type 1 collagen. In the immunohistochemical analysis, we observed the presence of the macrophage marker IHQ: CD68, indicating phagocytosis of adipose tissue and the presence of fibrosis. In the analysis of adverse reactions, only transient hyperemia was observed with the presence of pain during application. Additionally, the volunteers expressed high level of satisfaction (93%) with the treatment Conclusion: The MFU promoted the production of collagen, reorganization of the dermis and, clinically, a reduction of sagging and wrinkles, with increased facial symmetry.展开更多
Because of the constant challenge to preserve the environment and the search for new materials, a comparative study was carried out using keratin fiber, a fibrous protein, found in the chicken feathers. Five different...Because of the constant challenge to preserve the environment and the search for new materials, a comparative study was carried out using keratin fiber, a fibrous protein, found in the chicken feathers. Five different samples of the feather were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). First in their natural form Keratin Fiber (KF);the second treated with sodium hydroxide (KFNaOH);the third and fourth samples were semi carbonized at 220℃ in an oven without atmospheric control for 24 hours (samples obtained: Clear brown (SCFC) and Dark brown (SCFD));and the fifth sample was carbonized by pyrolysis Carbonized Feathers (CF). The SEM result shows that the KF has a hollow structure, with knots and hooks. The KFNaOH structure presented rougher than that of the KF, but lost their hooks. The SCFC and SCFD presented brittle structures, but preserved the hollow structure of KF;however, it was only noticeable to a magnification of 3000 times. On the other hand, the CF, was shiny, black, and showed a higher amount of porosity with open micro-pores and micro-tubes, preserved the hollow structure of KF than any other samples studied, and also presented well-defined closed micro-tubes. From the XRD analysis of the KF, CF, KFNaOH, SCFC and SCFD, presented semi-crystalline structures, with the following indices of crystallinity, 20.09%, 18.93%, 17.97%, 15.02% and 14.31%, respectively. The CF presented smaller size crystallites, in between the micro- particulates, around 27 nm and the KFNaOH with larger size around 74 nm. From this study it was concluded that micro-porous carbon material from chicken feathers (KF) could be efficiently obtained through pyrolysis.展开更多
Chitin is widely distributed in nature, being the main structural component of the exoskeleton of crustaceans and is non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible. These exoskeletons once discarded become an industrial w...Chitin is widely distributed in nature, being the main structural component of the exoskeleton of crustaceans and is non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible. These exoskeletons once discarded become an industrial waste creating environmental pollutant. In order to find an alternative use, the present work exploits the extraction of the chitosan from chitin that is present in the exoskeletons of shrimps Litopenaeus vannamei and crabs Ucides cordatus and transforms it into high valued products, which can help solving the environmental problem as well to provide extra income to the fishermen. One example is the manufacture of nanomembranes from chitosan for the application in medical textiles. Nanomembranes using electrospinning of chitosan solutions (7% and 5wt%) with 100:0 v/v (TFA/DCM) and 70:30 v/v (TFA/DCM) were produced. Morphological properties of chitin and chitosan were studied using SEM, DRX, and thermal properties through TG/DTG and molecular structure by FTIR analysis. TG/DTG showed thermal decomposition of chitosan samples. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the semi-crystalline structure of chitosan, and highly crystalline structure for chitin. Morphologies of the nanomembranes were also observed from scanning electron micrographs. Results showed that the nanomembranes with 5% chitosan solutions with 70:30 v/v (TFA/DCM) showed facilitation in the formation of the nanomembranes. The nanomembranes of shrimp and crab with 5% 70:30 v/v (TFA/DCM) had higher breaking tension and breaking extension. With positive results obtained, the present work will help the authorities to organize the fishermen to have consciousness in the collection of exoskeleton waste as well as helping to have a better environment.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the cytotoxic effects of spray-dried extracts of Phyllanthus niruri in combination with cisplatin on two cancer cell lines.METHODS:Colorectal carcinoma(HT29) and human hepatocellular carcinoma(HepG2...AIM:To investigate the cytotoxic effects of spray-dried extracts of Phyllanthus niruri in combination with cisplatin on two cancer cell lines.METHODS:Colorectal carcinoma(HT29) and human hepatocellular carcinoma(HepG2) cells were treated with spray-dried extracts of Phyllanthus niruri(SDEPN) either alone or in combination with cisplatin at different concentrations(0.5 mg/mL and 1 mg/mL) for 4 h and 24 h.To verify and quantify cancer cells treated with these products as well as identify the cell cycle stage and cell viability,we stained the cells with propidium iodide and assessed them by flow cytometry.The percentage of cells in different cell cycle phases was quantified and data were expressed as histograms.Significant differences between groups were determined using analysis of variance and Bonferroni's test,as indicated.A value of P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.RESULTS:SDEPN had significantly different cytotoxic effects on HT29(2.81 ± 0.11 vs 3.51 ± 1.13,P > 0.05) and HepG2(5.07 ± 0.3 vs 15.9 ± 1.04,P < 0.001) cells when compared to control cells for 4 h.SDEPN also had significantly different cytotoxic effects on HT29(1.91 ± 0.57 vs 4.53 ± 1.22,P > 0.05) and HepG2(14.56 ± 1.6 vs 35.67 ± 3.94,P < 0.001) cells when compared to control cells for 24 h.Both cell lines were killed by cisplatin in a dose-dependent manner compared to control cells(HepG2 cells for 4 h:10.78 ± 1.58 vs 53.89 ± 1.53,P < 0.001;24 h:8.9 ± 1.43 vs 62.78 ± 1.87,P < 0.001 and HT29 cells for 4 h:9.52 ± 0.913 vs 49.86 ± 2.89,P < 0.001;24 h:11.78 ± 1.05 vs 53.34 ± 2.65,P < 0.001).In HT29 cells,pretreatment with SDEPN and subsequent treatment with cis-platin resulted in a greater number of cells being killed(12.78 ± 1.01 vs 93.76 ± 1.6,P < 0.001).HepG2 cells showed significant cell killing with treatment with SDEPN when combined with cisplatin(12.87 ± 2.78 vs 78.8 ± 3.02,P < 0.001).CONCLUSION:SDEPN is selectively toxic against two cancer cell lines.Moreover,SDEPN in combination with cisplatin induces a synergistic increase in the cell death of both HT29 and HepG2 cells.展开更多
The objective of this study was to develop an experimental methodology for the extraction of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from contaminated soil and wood material using the Soxhlet extraction method and supercriti...The objective of this study was to develop an experimental methodology for the extraction of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from contaminated soil and wood material using the Soxhlet extraction method and supercritical fluid technology. The sample PCB contents were quantified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Conventional extractions of PCBs from soil samples showed higher extraction yields for samples with the highest initial PCB levels and longest extraction times. Specific PCBs yielded 74.0% - 78.3% removal using ethanol as the solvent. 91.0% - 94.3% removal of the total PCB content was achieved using hexane as the solvent. Supercritical fluid extraction of soil samples resulted in 50.0% - 70.5% removal for specific PCBs and 57.3% removal of the total PCB content. For wood, the use of Soxhlet extraction resulted in 87.0% - 94.0% removal for specific PCBs and 95.0% - 96.3% removal of the total PCB content. Supercritical fluid extraction of wood samples resulted in 91.1% - 95.0% removal of specific PCBs and 95.1 % of the total PCB content.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the effect of autoclaved diet on the jejunum neurons of the myenteric plexus of rats during their growth.METHODS:The experimental groups were made up of rats going through weaning whose mothers receive...AIM:To evaluate the effect of autoclaved diet on the jejunum neurons of the myenteric plexus of rats during their growth.METHODS:The experimental groups were made up of rats going through weaning whose mothers received either an autoclaved or a non-autoclaved diet during gestation and lactation,and rats that were fed the same diet as their mothers during the post-weaning period.In order to measure the neurons'body profile and to quantify the number of neurons per area,preparations were stained by the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-diaphorase method.RESULTS:No significant changes were observed in rats'body weight or in the number of neurons regardless of the diet used(P>0.05) .There was a decrease in the jejunum-ileum length in rats treated with an autoclaved diet(P<0.05) .An increase in the neuronal cross-sectional area was seen in rats that had received the autoclaved diet,an effect that was significant for animals undergoing weaning.In addition,all observed factors showed significant differences when related to the age of the animals.CONCLUSION:The autoclaved diet did not alter the quantity of neurons,but increased their cell body area,suggesting changes similar to those observed in protein deficiency.展开更多
Patients with diabetes mellitus(DM) frequently develop electrolyte disorders,including hyperkalemia.The most important causal factor of chronic hyperkalemia in patients with diabetes is the syndrome of hyporeninemic h...Patients with diabetes mellitus(DM) frequently develop electrolyte disorders,including hyperkalemia.The most important causal factor of chronic hyperkalemia in patients with diabetes is the syndrome of hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism(HH),but other conditions may also contribute.Moreover,as hyperkalemia is related to the blockage of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system(RAAS) and HH is most common among patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency due to diabetic nephropathy(DN),the proper evaluation and management of these patients is quite complex.Despite its obvious relationship with diabetic nephropathy,HH is also related to other microvascular complications,such as DN,particularly the autonomic type.To confirm the diagnosis,plasma aldosterone concentration and the levels of renin and cortisol are measured when the RAAS is activated.In addition,synthetic mineralocorticoid and/or diuretics are used for the treatment of this syndrome.However,few studies on the implications of HH in the treatment of patients with DM have been conducted in recent years,and therefore little,if any,progress has been made.This comprehensive review highlights the findings regarding the epidemiology,diagnosis,and management recommendations for HH in patients with DM to clarify the diagnosis of this clinical condition,which is often neglected,and to assist in the improvement of patient care.展开更多
The aiming of this worksheet is to evaluate and to compare the quantity of prenatal appointment indicators;childbirth by kind of delivery;maternal mortality coefficient and maternal deaths number. It is about an ecolo...The aiming of this worksheet is to evaluate and to compare the quantity of prenatal appointment indicators;childbirth by kind of delivery;maternal mortality coefficient and maternal deaths number. It is about an ecological, descriptive and analytical study, made through the appreciation of secondary data related to the maternal mortality in Rio Grande do Norte, from 2000 to 2014. To that, it was used information from SISPACTO to compare real data to the estimated goals. The results show that there was an increase on the number of women who performed seven or more prenatal queries, in turn, there was an increase of alive newborns through cesarean, moreover, it is observed an oscillation on the maternal deaths number by residence during the studied period, achieving superior values to the agreed goals during the last two analyzed years. It is concluded that the maternal health, in Rio Grande do Norte, negative indicators are being presented concerning the maternal mortality, in spite of presenting an improvement on the prenatal access.展开更多
文摘Objective: The objective is to correlate the nursing diagnoses of the domain Safety/Protection of NANDA-I in critically ill patients with sociodemographic and clinical data. Method: A cross-sectional study with 86 individuals was conducted, from October 2013 to May 2014 in the Intensive Care Unit of a university hospital in northeastern Brazil, through a formal interview and physical examination. Results: It was possible to identify a total of 20 significant statistical associations, and 15 were clinically justified by the literature, namely: risk for aspiration and reason for admission;impaired dentition and age;risk for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction and sex and comorbidity;skin integrity and comorbidity;risk for impaired skin integrity and gender and reason for admission;impaired tissue integrity and gender and reason for admission;risk for perioperative positioning injury and reason for admission;risk for thermal injury and age and comorbidity;delayed surgical recovery and reason for admission;risk for poisoning and years of schooling;and risk for imbalanced body temperature and age. Conclusions: By understanding the relationship between customers’ answers and the sociodemographic and clinical profile, positive health outcomes can be achieved in particular in the prevention of risks facing vulnerability characteristics, providing greater safety and protection for the critical customer.
文摘Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile of children and adolescents who are victims of domestic violence. Method: This is a cross sectional and descriptive study, following a quantitative approach, conducted from September to December 2013, at the SOS CHILD service, in the city of Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The research protocol was approved by CEP/UFRN under CAAE 0166.0.051.000-11. Results: In the analysis of 69 children, the results were presented from three points of view: 1) the victim—female (56.5%), aged one to 11 years old (66.7%) and lived with one of the parents (43.5%);2) the abuser—female (60.9%) in the 14 - 23 years old and 34 - 43 years old, with the same percentage (24.6%), history of alcohol use and abuse (42.0%), the mother was the one who attacked the most (34.7%);3) types of violence, among the physical ones, the most frequent were slaps (43.2%) and punches (18.9%);the prevalence, among the psychological violence, were curses (35.4%) and abuse (27.8%);negligence, omission of care (73.5%), deprivation of care for personal appearance (18.4%);among sexual violence: sexual caresses (57.1%) and forced sex (42.9%). Conclusion: Children and adolescents placed in an unfavorable social-economic context, under the care of mothers with a history of use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs, are more vulnerable to intra-domiciliary violence.
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> To investigate the effects of the association of semi-ablative fractional radiofrequency (RFF) with growth factors in stretch marks. <strong>Methods:</strong> This is a randomized controlled trial. The sample consisted of 28 female patients with complaints of gluteus or abdomen striae and divided into 2 equitable groups, named G1 (semi-ablative RFF without active principle association) and G2 (semi-ablative RFF with active principle association), being subdivided into G-1A and G-2A (abdominal applications) and G-1B and G-2B (gluteus applications). A photographic and histological analysis was performed using questionnaires about inflammation, presence of adverse effects and satisfaction of volunteers. Photographic analysis showed a reduction in the amount of striae alba in all groups. <strong>Results:</strong> The histological analysis showed an increase in fibroblast activity, collagen type I, and blood vessels, especially in the groups that associated the RFF with the active principle. In the inflammation analysis, the groups that performed intervention with active ingredients showed lower inflammatory signal. All groups had a reasonable level of satisfaction after the interventions;however, the group that used active ingredients reported greater results. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The association of semi ablative RFF with growth factors showed a reduction in clinical inflammatory signs, mainly in the first 15 days, as well as higher collagen production, verified in 30 days, with satisfactory clinical results in all groups.
文摘Background: Contraceptive methods (CM) are important resources in the prevention of adolescent pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate adolescent knowledge, attitudes and practices related to contraception. Study Design: A cross-sectional and exploratory study was conducted with 7th to 9th grade adolescents in northeastern Brazil. Their knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive method use were analysed by gender, age and sexual initiation groups. Results: A sexual debut had been experienced by 21% (n = 120) of all respondents (n = 570). The majority of the respondents who had experienced a sexual debut were male (73.3%, n = 88), their mean age was 15 years (SD = 1.46), and 49.3% (n = 59) never used any CM. The participants displayed low knowledge and unfavourable and ambivalent attitudes concerning contraception. Conclusion: Adolescents initiate sexual intercourse with knowledge and attitudes that limit the use of CM, which makes them more at risk of pregnancy. Further research that will be representative of the specific population in need of interventions is necessary.
基金supported by FAPERJ–State of Rio de JaneiroResearch Foundation (No. E-26/170.086/2006)
文摘Conventional sliding mode controllers are based on the assumption of switching control, but a well-known drawback of such controllers is the chattering phenomenon. To overcome the undesirable chattering effects, the discontinuity in the control law can be smoothed out in a thin boundary layer neighboring the switching surface. In this paper, rigorous proofs of the boundedness and convergence properties of smooth sliding mode controllers are presented. This result corrects flawed conclusions previously reached in the literature. An illustrative example is also presented in order to confirm the convergence of the tracking error vector to the defined bounded region.
文摘Double cecal appendix is a rare anatomical variation. Approximately 100 cases have been reported worldwide. It is usually diagnosed incidentally during emergency appendectomies due to inflammatory processes in the cecal appendix. Case presentation: male, white, 36 years old, obese, presenting with pain in the lower abdomen for 24 h followed by nausea, vomiting and mild fever. He was subjected to additional tests, with the leukogram showing leukocytosis and abdominal ultrasonography depicting cecal appendix with thickened wall, locally associated with small quantities of liquid and intestinal loop obstruction. He underwent laparotomy, revealing acute appendicitis. Another intestinal loop obstruction was identified next to the ileum, leading to recognizing another cecal appendix after local dissection. Double appendectomy and segmental iliectomy were performed although not needed. Results of the anatomopathological examination of the surgical samples showed acute inflammation in the two cecal appendices. So, performing a routine retroperitoneal release and a complete cecum evaluation during such surgical procedures is recommended and suggested due to the possibility of not identifying a second cecal appendix.
文摘AIM: To systematically review the literature on the efficacy of noninvasive methods of arresting the progression of non-cavitated occlusal carious lesions in dentin.METHODS: The Medline/Pub Med,LILACS,Sci ELO and Scopus databases were searched to identify relevant publications through to November 2013.Only clinical trials evaluating the ability of noninvasive methods to arrest the progression of occlusal non-cavitated carious lesions in dentin were included.Screening,data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently and in duplicate.RESULTS: Of 167 citations identified,nine full text articles were screened and five were included in the analysis.All papers reported on occlusal fissure sealing using a self-curing glass ionomer(n = 1) or resin-based(n = 4) sealant.Only the use of resin-based sealant to obliterate occlusal fissures arrested the progression of non-cavitated occlusal carious lesions in dentin.CONCLUSION: Occlusal fissure sealing with a resin-based sealant may arrest the progression of non-cavitated occlusal dentinal caries.Further clinical trials with longer follow-up times should be performed to increase scientific evidence.
基金CAPES and Brazilian National Council of Research (CNPq) (Grant 407684/2013-1) for the financial support
文摘A hybrid GMDH neural network model has been developed in order to predict the partition coefficients of invertase from Baker's yeast. ATPS experiments were carried out changing the molar average mass of PEG(1500–6000 Da), p H(4.0–7.0), percentage of PEG(10.0–20.0 w/w), percentage of MgSO_4(8.0–16.0 w/w), percentage of the cell homogenate(10.0–20.0 w/w) and the percentage of MnSO_4(0–5.0 w/w) added as cosolute. The network evaluation was carried out comparing the partition coefficients obtained from the hybrid GMDH neural network with the experimental data using different statistical metrics. The hybrid GMDH neural network model showed better fitting(AARD = 32.752%) as well as good generalization capacity of the partition coefficients of the ATPS than the original GMDH network approach and a BPANN model. Therefore hybrid GMDH neural network model appears as a powerful tool for predicting partition coefficients during downstream processing of biomolecules.
基金This paper is dedicated to Benedito Bueno(in memoriam),a brilliant researcher and former professor at University of São Paulo,to whom the authors are indebted for his vision and enormous contribution during the development of this work.This study was financed in part by the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior(CAPES),Brazil(finance code 001).
文摘A new experimental approach to assess the impact of soil confinement on the long-term behavior of geosynthetics is presented in this paper.The experimental technique described herein includes a novel laboratory apparatus and the use of different types of tests that allow generation of experimental data suitable for evaluation of the time-dependent behavior of geosynthetics under soil confinement.The soil-geosynthetic interaction equipment involves a rigid box capable of accommodating a cubic soil mass under plane strain conditions.A geosynthetic specimen placed horizontally at the mid-height of the soil mass is subjected to sustained vertical pressures that,in turn,induce reinforcement axial loads applied from the soil to the geosynthetic.Unlike previously reported studies on geosynthetic behavior under soil confinement,the equipment was found to be particularly versatile.With minor setup modifications,not only interaction tests but also in-isolation geosynthetic stress relaxation tests and soil-only tests under a constant strain rate can be conducted using the same device.Also,the time histories of the reinforcement loads and corresponding strains are generated throughout the test.Results from typical tests conducted using sand and a polypropylene woven geotextile are presented to illustrate the proposed experimental approach.The testing procedure was found to provide adequate measurements during tests,including good repeatability of test results.The soilegeosynthetic interaction tests were found to lead to increasing geotextile strains with time and decreasing reinforcement tension with time.The test results highlighted the importance of measuring not only the time history of displacements but also that of reinforcement loads during testing.The approach of using different types of tests to analyze the soilegeosynthetic interaction behavior is an innovation that provides relevant insight into the impact of soil confinement on the time-dependent deformations of geosynthetics.
文摘Purpose:To investigate whether blood flow restriction(BFR) without concomitant exercise mitigated strength reduction and atrophy of thigh muscles in subjects under immobilization for lower limbs.Methods:The following databases were searched:PubMed,CINAHL,PEDro,Web of Science,Central,and Scopus.Results:The search identified 3 eligible studies,and the total sample in the identified studies consisted of 38 participants.Isokinetic and isometric torque of the knee flexors and extensors was examined in 2 studies.Cross-sectional area of thigh muscles was evaluated in 1 study,and thigh girth was measured in 2 studies.The BFR protocol was 5 sets of 5 min of occlusion and 3 min of free flow,twice daily for approximately 2 weeks.As a whole,the included studies indicate that BFR without exercise is able to minimize strength reduction and muscular atrophy after immobilization.It is crucial to emphasize,however,that the included studies showed a high risk of bias,especially regarding allocation concealment,blinding of outcome assessment,intention-to-treat analyses,and group similarity at baseline.Conclusion:Although potentially useful,the high risk of bias presented by original stodies limits the indication of BFR without concomitant exercise as an effective countermeasure against strength reduction and atrophy mediated by immobilization.
文摘The main objective of this paper was to evaluate the daily actual evapotranspiration (ET) accuracy obtained by remote sensing algorithms when compared with Bowen ratio measurements performed in the cotton fields. The experiment was conducted in a cotton experimental field of EMBRAPA located in Ceará State, Brazil. Seven TM Landsat-5 images acquired in 2005 and 2008 were used to perform SEBAL and SSEB algorithms. The comparison between the estimated values by remoting sensing algorithms and the measured values in situ showed an acceptable accuracy. Besides, SSEB algorithm showed to be an important tool for ET analysis in the semi-arid regions, due to the fact that it does not need the meteorological data to solve the energy balance, but only the average temperature of the “hot” and “cold” pixels. Additionally, SSEB presents simpler processing than SEBAL algorithm that needs to solve an iterative process to obtain the sensible heat flux values.
文摘Introduction: Micro focused ultrasound (MFU) is formed by mechanical waves emitted in a focused manner, concentrating thermal energy on a certain point or region, promoting a clinical improvement in wrinkles. Objective: evaluate the effects of micro focused ultrasound on facial rejuvenation. Methodology: This is an experimental study. The sample consisted of 30 volunteers, who were evaluated before treatment, 45 and 90 days after its beginning. A single application of the MFU was performed across the facial region. The parameters used were: 10 MHz cartridge with depth of 1.5 mm, 7 MHz with depth of 3 mm, and 4 MHz with focal depth of 4.5 mm;doses ranged from 0.1 to 2.0 J, according to the sensitivity of the volunteers treated, and the application time was of approximately 90 minutes. Clinical photographic analysis and facial symmetry analysis using Dolphin Imaging software were performed, and validated questionnaires. Two volunteers were submitted to blepharoplasty surgery, and one to rhytidoplasty surgery 45 days after the application of the MFU. Samples of the treated skin were taken after the surgical procedures and submitted to histological and immunohistochemical analyses. The volunteers answered a questionnaire to assess adverse reactions and satisfaction. Results: We observed a visible clinical improvement on the images by photography, and an improvement of facial symmetry in the measurements of the paralateronasal projection (p = 0.007), left lateral mandibular (p = 0.01), and right lateral mandibular (p = 0.008). The histological analysis showed an increase in the amount of fibroblasts (p = 0.02), blood vessels (p = 0.0062) and inflammatory cells (p = 0.0036), in addition to the production of type 1 collagen. In the immunohistochemical analysis, we observed the presence of the macrophage marker IHQ: CD68, indicating phagocytosis of adipose tissue and the presence of fibrosis. In the analysis of adverse reactions, only transient hyperemia was observed with the presence of pain during application. Additionally, the volunteers expressed high level of satisfaction (93%) with the treatment Conclusion: The MFU promoted the production of collagen, reorganization of the dermis and, clinically, a reduction of sagging and wrinkles, with increased facial symmetry.
文摘Because of the constant challenge to preserve the environment and the search for new materials, a comparative study was carried out using keratin fiber, a fibrous protein, found in the chicken feathers. Five different samples of the feather were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). First in their natural form Keratin Fiber (KF);the second treated with sodium hydroxide (KFNaOH);the third and fourth samples were semi carbonized at 220℃ in an oven without atmospheric control for 24 hours (samples obtained: Clear brown (SCFC) and Dark brown (SCFD));and the fifth sample was carbonized by pyrolysis Carbonized Feathers (CF). The SEM result shows that the KF has a hollow structure, with knots and hooks. The KFNaOH structure presented rougher than that of the KF, but lost their hooks. The SCFC and SCFD presented brittle structures, but preserved the hollow structure of KF;however, it was only noticeable to a magnification of 3000 times. On the other hand, the CF, was shiny, black, and showed a higher amount of porosity with open micro-pores and micro-tubes, preserved the hollow structure of KF than any other samples studied, and also presented well-defined closed micro-tubes. From the XRD analysis of the KF, CF, KFNaOH, SCFC and SCFD, presented semi-crystalline structures, with the following indices of crystallinity, 20.09%, 18.93%, 17.97%, 15.02% and 14.31%, respectively. The CF presented smaller size crystallites, in between the micro- particulates, around 27 nm and the KFNaOH with larger size around 74 nm. From this study it was concluded that micro-porous carbon material from chicken feathers (KF) could be efficiently obtained through pyrolysis.
基金The authors wish to thank God,CAPES for the research grant,as well as to PPGEM,The CTPETRO-INFRA,FINEP/LIEM e CSIR.
文摘Chitin is widely distributed in nature, being the main structural component of the exoskeleton of crustaceans and is non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible. These exoskeletons once discarded become an industrial waste creating environmental pollutant. In order to find an alternative use, the present work exploits the extraction of the chitosan from chitin that is present in the exoskeletons of shrimps Litopenaeus vannamei and crabs Ucides cordatus and transforms it into high valued products, which can help solving the environmental problem as well to provide extra income to the fishermen. One example is the manufacture of nanomembranes from chitosan for the application in medical textiles. Nanomembranes using electrospinning of chitosan solutions (7% and 5wt%) with 100:0 v/v (TFA/DCM) and 70:30 v/v (TFA/DCM) were produced. Morphological properties of chitin and chitosan were studied using SEM, DRX, and thermal properties through TG/DTG and molecular structure by FTIR analysis. TG/DTG showed thermal decomposition of chitosan samples. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the semi-crystalline structure of chitosan, and highly crystalline structure for chitin. Morphologies of the nanomembranes were also observed from scanning electron micrographs. Results showed that the nanomembranes with 5% chitosan solutions with 70:30 v/v (TFA/DCM) showed facilitation in the formation of the nanomembranes. The nanomembranes of shrimp and crab with 5% 70:30 v/v (TFA/DCM) had higher breaking tension and breaking extension. With positive results obtained, the present work will help the authorities to organize the fishermen to have consciousness in the collection of exoskeleton waste as well as helping to have a better environment.
基金Supported by Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)CNPq (470179/2009-0) for financial support and Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences,Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
文摘AIM:To investigate the cytotoxic effects of spray-dried extracts of Phyllanthus niruri in combination with cisplatin on two cancer cell lines.METHODS:Colorectal carcinoma(HT29) and human hepatocellular carcinoma(HepG2) cells were treated with spray-dried extracts of Phyllanthus niruri(SDEPN) either alone or in combination with cisplatin at different concentrations(0.5 mg/mL and 1 mg/mL) for 4 h and 24 h.To verify and quantify cancer cells treated with these products as well as identify the cell cycle stage and cell viability,we stained the cells with propidium iodide and assessed them by flow cytometry.The percentage of cells in different cell cycle phases was quantified and data were expressed as histograms.Significant differences between groups were determined using analysis of variance and Bonferroni's test,as indicated.A value of P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.RESULTS:SDEPN had significantly different cytotoxic effects on HT29(2.81 ± 0.11 vs 3.51 ± 1.13,P > 0.05) and HepG2(5.07 ± 0.3 vs 15.9 ± 1.04,P < 0.001) cells when compared to control cells for 4 h.SDEPN also had significantly different cytotoxic effects on HT29(1.91 ± 0.57 vs 4.53 ± 1.22,P > 0.05) and HepG2(14.56 ± 1.6 vs 35.67 ± 3.94,P < 0.001) cells when compared to control cells for 24 h.Both cell lines were killed by cisplatin in a dose-dependent manner compared to control cells(HepG2 cells for 4 h:10.78 ± 1.58 vs 53.89 ± 1.53,P < 0.001;24 h:8.9 ± 1.43 vs 62.78 ± 1.87,P < 0.001 and HT29 cells for 4 h:9.52 ± 0.913 vs 49.86 ± 2.89,P < 0.001;24 h:11.78 ± 1.05 vs 53.34 ± 2.65,P < 0.001).In HT29 cells,pretreatment with SDEPN and subsequent treatment with cis-platin resulted in a greater number of cells being killed(12.78 ± 1.01 vs 93.76 ± 1.6,P < 0.001).HepG2 cells showed significant cell killing with treatment with SDEPN when combined with cisplatin(12.87 ± 2.78 vs 78.8 ± 3.02,P < 0.001).CONCLUSION:SDEPN is selectively toxic against two cancer cell lines.Moreover,SDEPN in combination with cisplatin induces a synergistic increase in the cell death of both HT29 and HepG2 cells.
基金The authors are grateful to Cepema-USP for laboratory support and Capes(Procad:213055)for financial support.D.J.Silva also thanks Capes for MS assistance.
文摘The objective of this study was to develop an experimental methodology for the extraction of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from contaminated soil and wood material using the Soxhlet extraction method and supercritical fluid technology. The sample PCB contents were quantified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Conventional extractions of PCBs from soil samples showed higher extraction yields for samples with the highest initial PCB levels and longest extraction times. Specific PCBs yielded 74.0% - 78.3% removal using ethanol as the solvent. 91.0% - 94.3% removal of the total PCB content was achieved using hexane as the solvent. Supercritical fluid extraction of soil samples resulted in 50.0% - 70.5% removal for specific PCBs and 57.3% removal of the total PCB content. For wood, the use of Soxhlet extraction resulted in 87.0% - 94.0% removal for specific PCBs and 95.0% - 96.3% removal of the total PCB content. Supercritical fluid extraction of wood samples resulted in 91.1% - 95.0% removal of specific PCBs and 95.1 % of the total PCB content.
基金Supported by The State of So Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP),that partially funded this study
文摘AIM:To evaluate the effect of autoclaved diet on the jejunum neurons of the myenteric plexus of rats during their growth.METHODS:The experimental groups were made up of rats going through weaning whose mothers received either an autoclaved or a non-autoclaved diet during gestation and lactation,and rats that were fed the same diet as their mothers during the post-weaning period.In order to measure the neurons'body profile and to quantify the number of neurons per area,preparations were stained by the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-diaphorase method.RESULTS:No significant changes were observed in rats'body weight or in the number of neurons regardless of the diet used(P>0.05) .There was a decrease in the jejunum-ileum length in rats treated with an autoclaved diet(P<0.05) .An increase in the neuronal cross-sectional area was seen in rats that had received the autoclaved diet,an effect that was significant for animals undergoing weaning.In addition,all observed factors showed significant differences when related to the age of the animals.CONCLUSION:The autoclaved diet did not alter the quantity of neurons,but increased their cell body area,suggesting changes similar to those observed in protein deficiency.
文摘Patients with diabetes mellitus(DM) frequently develop electrolyte disorders,including hyperkalemia.The most important causal factor of chronic hyperkalemia in patients with diabetes is the syndrome of hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism(HH),but other conditions may also contribute.Moreover,as hyperkalemia is related to the blockage of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system(RAAS) and HH is most common among patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency due to diabetic nephropathy(DN),the proper evaluation and management of these patients is quite complex.Despite its obvious relationship with diabetic nephropathy,HH is also related to other microvascular complications,such as DN,particularly the autonomic type.To confirm the diagnosis,plasma aldosterone concentration and the levels of renin and cortisol are measured when the RAAS is activated.In addition,synthetic mineralocorticoid and/or diuretics are used for the treatment of this syndrome.However,few studies on the implications of HH in the treatment of patients with DM have been conducted in recent years,and therefore little,if any,progress has been made.This comprehensive review highlights the findings regarding the epidemiology,diagnosis,and management recommendations for HH in patients with DM to clarify the diagnosis of this clinical condition,which is often neglected,and to assist in the improvement of patient care.
文摘The aiming of this worksheet is to evaluate and to compare the quantity of prenatal appointment indicators;childbirth by kind of delivery;maternal mortality coefficient and maternal deaths number. It is about an ecological, descriptive and analytical study, made through the appreciation of secondary data related to the maternal mortality in Rio Grande do Norte, from 2000 to 2014. To that, it was used information from SISPACTO to compare real data to the estimated goals. The results show that there was an increase on the number of women who performed seven or more prenatal queries, in turn, there was an increase of alive newborns through cesarean, moreover, it is observed an oscillation on the maternal deaths number by residence during the studied period, achieving superior values to the agreed goals during the last two analyzed years. It is concluded that the maternal health, in Rio Grande do Norte, negative indicators are being presented concerning the maternal mortality, in spite of presenting an improvement on the prenatal access.
