Woody species distribution across a savanna-dry forest soil gradient in the Brazilian Cerrado / Distribuição de espécies arbóreas em gradiente de solo savana-floresta seca no Cerrado brasileiro

Although richness and distribution of woody species in the Cerrado physiognomies have been extensively studied, the shifts of woody species from savanna physiognomies to dry forests have not yet been addressed. Here, we investigate the effect of soil physical-chemical traits on the woody species turnover between adjacent cerrado stricto sensu and dry forest physiognomies. Woody species were surveyed, and soil and topographic variables measured, in 30 10×40 m plots systematically distributed, with 15 plots in each physiognomy. We found a spatially structured distribution of woody species, and differences of soil traits between cerrado stricto sensu and dry forest areas, mainly related to the aluminum saturation, base saturation, and available phosphorus. Aluminum saturation increased toward the savanna area, while base saturation increased toward the dry forest. Most woody species predominated in one physiognomy, such as Callisthene major in the cerrado stricto sensu and Anadenanthera colubrina in the dry forest. Only 20% of the species were widely distributed across both physiognomies or, not often, restricted to the intermediary values of the soil gradient. General results indicate that contrasting soil traits between cerrado stricto sensu and dry forest produce a strongly spatially organized and sharp transition in terms of species distribution between these physiognomies.

Embora a distribuição e a riqueza em espécies arbóreas nas fitofisionomias do Cerrado venham sendo bastante estudadas, a transição entre savanas e florestas deciduais ainda não foi abordada. Investigamos o efeito de características físico-químicas do solo sobre a distribuição de espécies arbóreas em região de contato entre cerrado sentido restrito e floresta estacional decidual (FED). As espécies arbóreas foram amostradas sistematicamente, e variáveis de topografia e características do solo foram medidas em 30 parcelas de 10×40 m, sendo 15 parcelas em cada fisionomia. A distribuição das espécies arbóreas foi espacialmente estruturada, e as características do solo diferiram entre as áreas de cerrado sentido restrito e FED, principalmente relacionadas à saturação de alumínio, saturação de bases e teores de fósforo. A saturação de alumínio aumentou em direção ao cerrado sentido restrito, enquanto a saturação de bases aumentou em direção à FED. A maioria das espécies arbóreas predominou em uma das fisionomias, como Callisthene major em cerrado sentido restrito e Anadenanthera colubrina em FED. Apenas 20% das espécies foram amplamente distribuídas em ambas as fisionomias ou, em poucos casos, restritas aos valores intermediários do gradiente de solo. Os resultados indicam um forte contraste de características do solo entre o cerrado sentido restrito e a FED, assim como uma transição acentuada e espacialmente organizada quanto à distribuição de espécies arbóreas.

Evaluation of cytotoxicity and corrosion resistance of orthodontic mini-implants

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate and compare in vitro cytotoxicity and corrosion resistance of mini-implants from three different commercial brands used for orthodontic anchorage. Methods: Six mini-implants (Conexão(tm), Neodent(tm) and SIN(tm)) were separately immersed in artificial saliva (pH 6.76) for 30 and 60 days. The cytotoxicity of the corrosion extracts was assessed in L929 cell cultures using the violet crystal and MTT assays, as well as cell morphology under light microscopy. Metal surface characteristics before and after immersion in artificial saliva were assessed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The samples underwent atomic absorption spectrophotometry to determine the concentrations of aluminum and vanadium ions, constituent elements of the alloy that present potential toxicity. For statistical analysis, one-way ANOVA/Bonferroni tests were used for comparisons among groups with p < 0.05 considered significant. Statistical analysis was carried out with Graph Pad PRISM software Version 4.0. Results: No changes in cell viability or morphology were observed. Mini-implants SEM images revealed smooth surfaces with no obvious traces of corrosion. The extracts assessed by means of atomic absorption spectrophotometry presented concentrations of aluminum and vanadium ions below 1.0 µg/mL and 0.5 µg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: Orthodontic mini-implants manufactured by Conexão(tm), Neodent(tm) and SIN(tm) present high corrosion resistance and are not cytotoxic.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar, in vitro, e comparar a citotoxicidade e a resistência à corrosão de mini-implantes de três marcas comerciais diferentes, utilizados para ancoragem ortodôntica. Métodos: seis mini-implantes fabricados pelas empresas Conexão(r), Neodent(r) e SIN(r) foram imersos, separadamente, em saliva artificial (pH = 6,76), por 30 e 60 dias, de forma a obter os extratos da corrosão. A citotoxicidade dos extratos foi avaliada em cultura de células L929, empregando-se a análise de ensaios do cristal violeta e MTT, bem como da morfologia celular sob microscopia óptica. As características da superfície do metal antes e após a imersão em saliva artificial foram avaliadas usando microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Os extratos foram submetidos a espectrofotometria de absorção atômica, para determinar as concentrações dos íons alumínio e vanádio, elementos constituintes da liga e que apresentam toxicidade em potencial. Para análise estatística, os testes one-way ANOVA/Bonferroni foram usados para comparação entre os grupos, com p < 0,05 sendo considerado significativo. A análise estatística foi realizada com o programa Graph Pad PRISM v. 4.0. Resultados: não foi observada alteração na viabilidade ou morfologia celular após a exposição dos mini-implantes aos extratos. A análise dos mini-implantes por microscopia eletrônica de varredura revelou superfícies lisas e sem traços evidentes de corrosão. Os extratos analisados usando espectrofotometria de absorção atômica apresentaram concentrações de íons alumínio e vanádio inferiores a 1,0 µg/ml e 0,5 µg/ml, respectivamente. Conclusão: os mini-implantes fabricados pelas empresas Conexão(r), Neodent(r) e SIN(r) apresentam alta resistência à corrosão e não são citotóxicos.

Enraizamento de estacas de genótipos de Camellia sinensis L. em meio ácido, presença de alumínio e ácido indolbutírico / Rooting of Camellia sinensis L. in acid medium, the presence of aluminum and indolebutyric acid

RESUMO Experimentos foram conduzidos para avaliar o efeito do meio ácido e do alumínio, assim como para determinar a concentração mais apropriada de ácido indolbutírico (AIB) para o enraizamento de estacas de diferentes genótipos de Camellia sinensis L (planta de chá). Para tal, foram coletados ramos de plantas-matrizes em Pariquera-Açu-SP, Brasil, no inverno de 2012 e preparadas estacas semi-lenhosas, contendo uma gema e uma folha, que foram mantidas em viveiro com 70% de sombreamento. A irrigação do substrato foi feita com água e soluções contendo ácido fosfórico e sulfato de alumínio a pH 5,5, 4,5; 3,5. No primeiro experimento, o delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3 x 7, três genótipos (F 15, IAC 259 e Comum) e sete condições diferentes de enraizamento (vermiculita a pH 6,5, vermiculita acidificada com ácido fosfórico a pH 3,5; 4,5 e 5,5 ou vermiculita acidificada com sulfato de alumínio a pH 3,5; 4,5 e 5,5). No segundo experimento, o tratamento que promoveu o maior enraizamento no primeiro experimento (vermiculita acidificada com sulfato de alumínio a pH 3,5) foi combinado ao tratamento com AIB. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3 x 6, sendo três genótipos e seis concentrações de AIB (0, 2000, 4000, 6000, 8000 e 1000 mg L-1). A vermiculita acidificada com sulfato de alumínio a pH 3,5, combinada a aplicação de 10000 mg L-1 de AIB por 30 segundos, foi o tratamento mais adequado para o enraizamento de estacas semi-lenhosas dos genótipos F15, IAC 259 e Comum.

ABSTRACT The experiments were carried out to evaluate the effect of medium acidic and aluminum, as well as determine the most suitable concentration of indolebutyric acid (IBA) for rooting cuttings of different genotypes of Camellia sinensis L (tea plant). Such, stems were collected from mother plants in Pariquera-Açu, São Paulo state, Brazil, in winter 2012 and prepared semi-hardwood cuttings, with one bud and one leaf, which were kept in a nursery with 70% of shading. Irrigation substrate was taken with water and solutions containing phosphoric acid and aluminum sulfate at pH 5.5, 4.5; 3,5. In the first experiment, the experimental design was completely randomized in a factorial scheme 3x7, three genotypes (F 15, IAC 259 and Comum) and seven different conditions of rooting (vermiculite at pH 6.5, acidified with phosphoric acid or aluminum sulfate vermiculite at pH 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5). In the second experiment, the treatment that promoted the highest rooting in the first experiment (vermiculite acidified with aluminum sulfate at pH 3.5) was combined with treatment with IBA The experimental design was completely randomized in a factorial scheme 3x6, three genotypes and six concentrations of IBA (0, 2.000, 4.000, 6.000, 8.000 and 10.000 mg L-1). Vermiculite acidified with aluminum sulphate to pH 3.5, combined application of 10.000 mg L-1 IBA for 30 seconds was the most appropriate treatment for cutting propagation of genotypes F15, IAC 259 and Comum. Vermiculite acidified with aluminum sulfate at pH 3.5, combined treatment with 10,000 mg L-1 IBA for 30 seconds, was the most suitable conditions for the rooting of cuttings Camellia sinensis L.

Utilização de embalagens tetra pak(r) como isolante térmico no revestimento de escamoteadores para leitões / Using tetra pak(r) packaging as insulation coating piglets' creeps

Foram conduzidos dois experimentos em laboratório e em condições de campo para avaliação da eficiência térmica da embalagem Tetra Pak(r)como isolante térmico em escamoteadores aquecidos. No experimento em laboratório, foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, adotando-se dois tratamentos (com e sem revestimento de embalagens Tetra Pak(r)) com 15 repetições (dias). O experimento em condições de campo foi conduzido na sala de maternidade de suínos. O delineamento foi inteiramente ao acaso, adotando-se dois tratamentos com 12 repetições. Os tratamentos foram: escamoteadores aquecidos com e sem revestimento interno com embalagem Tetra Pak(r). Foram medidos os dados de temperatura ambiente, umidade relativa do ar, temperatura superficial do piso, temperatura superficial da pele, comportamento e ganho de peso dos leitões lactentes. O uso da embalagem Tetra Pak(r)como isolante térmico no revestimento de escamoteadores manteve a temperatura ambiente confortável (32°C), proporcionando conforto térmico aos leitões lactentes.

Two experiments were conducted in laboratory and field conditions to evaluate the thermal efficiency of the Tetra Pak packaging as insulation in heated creeps. In the laboratory experiment a completely randomized design was used, adopting two treatments (with and without packaging coating with Tetra Pak(r)) with 15 repetitions (days). The experiment under field conditions was conducted in a swine nursery. The design was completely randomized, adopting two treatments with 12 repetitions. The treatments consisted of heated creep with and without Tetra Pak(r) lining. The data measured were ambient temperature, relative humidity, surface temperature of the floor, surface temperature of skin, behavior and weight gain of suckling piglets. The use of Tetra Pak(r) packaging as insulation in creep coating maintained the ambient temperature comfortable (32 °C), providing thermal comfort to suckling piglets.

Un método para evaluar el enriquecimiento de metales en sedimentos marinos en Costa Rica / A method to evaluate metal enrichment in marine sediments

A method to evaluate metal enrichment in marine sediments. In order to evaluate metal enrichment in sediments , a method is proposed and tested in Bahia Culebra and the Golfo de Nicoya, Costa Rica through the normalization of the elements against aluminum, and by linear regression of the logarithm of the concentrations of different elements respect to aluminum. The distributions of the elements manganese, and strontium of Bahía Culebra did not satisfy the tests of normalization and linear regression, indicating a nonnatural distribution or enrichment of these elements in this region. In the Golfo de Nicoya the elements copper , zinc , rubidium and the strontium did not satisfy the test of normality or the linear regression with respect to aluminum, indicating a possible enrichment of these elements. The majority of the concentrations of the elements in two sample sites, with the exception of chromium, are within the natural ranges in rocks or clays of marine sediments, and within the concentration ranges of other studies done in these same regions. Chromium has average values beyond the natural concentrations, the values of some samples in the Golfo de Nicoya are up to 10 times greater than the concentration value of a typical bay with high contamination of this element.

Se propone un método para evaluar enriquecimiento de metales en sedimentos de Bahía Culebra y en el Golfo de Nicoya de Costa Rica a través de la normalización de los elementos y el aluminio usando la regresión lineal de las concentraciones de los elementos y el Aluminio. Las distribuciones de los elementos manganeso y el estroncio de Bahía Culebra no cumplen con las pruebas de normalización y de regresión lineal, indicando una distribución no natural o enriquecimiento de estos elementos en esta región. En el Golfo de Nicoya los elementos cobre, zinc, rubidio y el estroncio no cumplen ya sea con la hipótesis de normalidad o con la regresión lineal respecto al aluminio, indicando un posible enriquecimiento de estos elementos en esta región. La mayoría de las concentraciones de los elementos tanto en ambos sitios de muestreo, con excepción del cromo, se encuentran dentro de los ámbitos naturales encontrados en las rocas o en las arcillas de sedimentos marinos a nivel mundial, y dentro de los ámbitos de las concentraciones de otros estudios realizados en estas mismas regiones. El cromo muestra valores promedio más allá de las concentraciones naturales, siendo la concentración de algunas muestras en el Golfo de Nicoya hasta diez veces mayores que el valor de una bahía con alta contaminación de este elemento.

Effect of denture cleansers on metal ion release and surface roughness of denture base materials

Chemical disinfectants are usually associated with mechanical methods to remove stains and reduce biofilm formation. This study evaluated the effect of disinfectants on release of metal ions and surface roughness of commercially pure titanium, metal alloys, and heat-polymerized acrylic resin, simulating 180 immersion trials. Disk-shaped specimens were fabricated with commercially pure titanium (Tritan), nickel-chromium-molybdenum-titanium (Vi-Star), nickel-chromium (Fit Cast-SB Plus), and nickel-chromium-beryllium (Fit Cast-V) alloys. Each cast disk was invested in the flasks, incorporating the metal disk to the heat-polymerized acrylic resin. The specimens (n=5) were immersed in these solutions: sodium hypochlorite 0.05%, Periogard, Cepacol, Corega Tabs, Medical Interporous, and Polident. Deionized water was used as a control. The quantitative analysis of metal ion release was performed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ELAN DRC II). A surface analyzer (Surftest SJ-201P) was used to measure the surface roughness (µm). Data were recorded before and after the immersions and evaluated by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The nickel release proved most significant with the Vi-Star and Fit Cast-V alloys after immersion in Medical Interporous. There was a significant difference in surface roughness of the resin (p=0.011) after immersion. Cepacol caused significantly higher resin roughness. The immersion products had no influence on metal roughness (p=0.388). It could be concluded that the tested alloys can be considered safe for removable denture fabrication, but disinfectant solutions as Cepacol and Medical Interporous tablet for daily denture immersion should be used with caution because it caused greater resin surface roughness and greater ion release, respectively.

Desinfetantes químicos são normalmente associados a métodos mecânicos para remover manchas e reduzir a formação do biofilme. Este estudo avaliou o efeito de desinfetantes na liberação de íons metálicos e na rugosidade superficial do titânio comercialmente puro, ligas metálicas e resina acrílica termopolimerizável, simulando 180 ensaios de imersões. Espécimes em formato de discos foram confeccionados com titânio comercialmente puro (Tritan), liga de níquel-cromo-molibdênio-titânio (Vi-Star), liga de níquel-cromo (Fit Cast-SB Plus) e liga de níquel-cromo-berílio (Fit Cast-V). Os espécimes (n=5) foram imersos nestas soluções: hipoclorito de sódio a 0,05%, Periogard, Cepacol, Corega Tabs, Medical Interporous e Polident. Como controle, foi utilizada a água deionizada. A análise quantitativa de liberação de íons metálicos foi realizada por meio de espectrometria de massa com plasma indutivamente acoplado (ELAN DRC II). O rugosímetro (Surftest SJ-201P) foi utilizado para medir a rugosidade superficial (µm). Os dados foram registrados antes e depois das imersões e avaliados por ANOVA com dois fatores e teste de Tukey (α=0,05). A liberação de níquel provou ser mais expressiva nas ligas Vi-Star e Fit Cast-V após a imersão em Medical Interporous. Houve diferença significante na rugosidade superficial da resina (p=0,011) após a imersão. O Cepacol causou maior rugosidade superficial de forma significativa. Os produtos de imersão não influenciaram nos resultados da rugosidade do metal (p=0,388). Pode-se concluir que as ligas metálicas testadas podem ser consideradas seguras para a fabricação de próteses removíveis, mas as soluções desinfetantes como o Cepacol e a pastilha Medical Interporous para a imersão diária da prótese devem ser utilizados com cautela, pois causaram maior rugosidade superficial da resina e maior liberação de íons, respectivamente.

Determinaçâo de metais classificados como de importância toxicológica no molusco bivalve Anadara notabilis (Róding, 1798) encontrado em Galinhos, Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil / Determination of metals of toxicological importance in the bivalve Anadara notabilis (Rõding, 1798) of Galinhos, coast of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

Os moluscos bivalves são consumidos por todo o mundo, constituindo-se em um recurso natural de boa aceitação pela população. Foi escolhido o molusco Anadara notabilis (conhecido como Xibiu ou Búzio) para este trabalho pelo seu tamanho característico, bem maior que os mariscos mais comuns, e também por não ter sido encontrado na literatura nenhuma informação toxicológica sobre esta classe de moluscos. Todos os íons metálicos foram determinados por espectroscopia de emissão ótica com plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP-OES) descrito pela metodologia U.S. EPA 6010C. Os resultados mostraram que estiveram presentes no molusco vários metais de caráter tóxico, porém apenas o cromo obteve valor acima do permitido pela legislação brasileira.Dentre os metais classificados como tóxicos o cobre que apresentou valor de 5,7 mg/Kg, o níquel que apresentou teor de 4,23 mg/Kg e o cromo, o único acima dos valores permitidos pela legislação brasileira, com teor de 1,7 mg/Kg, sempre considerando a amostra in natura. Como os moluscos têm a propriedade de acumular metais em seu organismo, para o consumo desse tipode alimento, deve-se tomar cuidado com as áreas próximas de sua coleta ou se cultivado, é necessário prevenir fatores que influenciem em sua contaminação.

Bivalve molluscs are consumed throughout the world, constituting a natural resource with good acceptance by the population. The mollusc Anadara notabilis (know as eared ark) was chosen for this study due to its characteristic size, much larger than most common shellfish, and the lack of toxicological information found in literature for this class of mollusks when considering metal ions toxicity. Metal ions were measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), method described by U.S. EPA 6010C. Results showed that several toxic metals were present in shellfish, however only chrome was measured in levels higher than those allowed by Brazilian legislation. Among those classified as toxic metals, copper showed a value of 5.7 mg / kg, nickel of 4.23 mg / kg andchromium of 1.7 mg / kg, when considering whole shellfish samples. As molluscs are able to accumulate metals in their body, for its consumption care should be taken regarding the areas in close proximity to their collection or cultivation, including prevention of factors that influence contamination.

Aluminio en el tracto respiratorio bajo de residentes de la Ciudad de México / Aluminium in the lower respiratory tract of people living in México City

Objetivo Se investigó la presencia de aluminio (Al) y de patologías respiratorias en el tracto respiratorio bajo de personas que habían residido en Ciudad de México por un tiempo mínimo de dos años. Métodos Se obtuvo 250 muestras de tejido respiratorio (lóbulos pulmonares, nódulo linfático peribronquial, bronquios e hilio), durante la autopsia médico legal de 36 individuos. Para la cuantificación de Al se utilizó plasma de inducción acoplado (ICP -OES) a la espectrofotometría de absorción atómica previo a lo cual las muestras fueron sometidas a un proceso de secado, trituración y digestión. Resultados Se identificaron 13 diferentes patologías, solo tres de ellas: enfisema pulmonar, bronquitis y antracosis, se correlacionan con la presencia de Al, elemento distribuido en concentraciones muy variables (rango:2,7 a 836,1 microgramos de Al por gramo de tejido seco (ì g Al/g ts). En lóbulos, bronquios e hilio la cantidad de Al encontrada fue mucho menor que la encontrada en nódulos peribronquiales, siendo la diferencia estadísticamente significativa. El análisis multivariado por conglomerados mostró que la muestra estaba conformada por tres clases de individuos, agrupados de acuerdo a la cantidad y distribución del Al en el tracto respiratorio bajo, a la edad, tiempo de residencia en la ciudad de México y presencia de patologías. Conclusión Se postula que el Al encontrado en el tracto respiratorio bajo de residentes de ciudad de México proviene del aire; la cantidad y el patrón de distribución dependen del tiempo y del lugar de residencia y al depositarse puede provocar enfermedades respiratorias.

Objective Investigating the presence of aluminium (Al) and respiratory pathologies in the lower respiratory tract of people who had lived in Mexico City for a minimum of two years. Methods 250 respiratory tissue samples were obtained from pulmonary lobes, lymph nodes, bronchial and hilum regions during 36 individuals' autopsies. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) was used for quantifying Al; the samples has been previously dried, ground and digested. Results 13 different pathologies were identified but only three of them (pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis and anthracosis) were correlated with the presence of Al, an element being distributed in very variable concentrations (range: 2,7 to 836,1 micrograms of Al per gram of dry tissue (ì g Al/g ts)). The amount of Al found in lobes, bronchial and hilum regions was much smaller than that found in lymph nodes; such difference was statistically significant. Multivariate analysis by conglomerates revealed that the sample consisted of three classes of individuals, grouped according to the amount and distribution of Al in the lower respiratory tract, age, time spent living in Mexico City and the presence of pathologies. Conclusions The Al found in the lower respiratory tract of residents of Mexico City would thus seem to have come from the air. The amount of Al and its distribution pattern depended on the time and place of residence and can lead to respiratory illness.

Optical density and chemical composition of microfilled and microhybrid composite resins

This study evaluated the optical density of two microfilled and two microhybrid resins, as well as the composition of these materials with regard to their optical density. Cavities prepared in 12 2-mm- or 4-mm-thick acrylic plastic plates were filled with Z250 (3M-ESPE), A110 (3M-ESPE), Charisma (Heraeus-Kulzer) and DurafillVS (Heraeus-Kulzer). The resin increments (2-mm-thick) were light-cured for 40 s. Three 0.12-s radiographic exposures were made of each #2 acrylic plastic plate. DenOptix system optical plates were used to obtain the digital images. Three readings of the composite resin surface were made in each radiograph, totalizing 216 readings. The mean of highest and lowest grey-scale values was obtained. Two specimens of each composite resin were prepared for SEM analysis of the chemical elements related to optical density, using energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX). The results were subjected to Shapiro-Wilk's test, ANOVA, Tukey's test at 1 percent level of significance and Pearson's correlation. The mean grey-scale values at 2 mm and 4 mm were: Z250 = 154.27a and 185.33w; A110 = 46.77b and 63.05y; Charisma = 163.40c and 200.46z; DurafillVS = 43.92b and 58.99x, respectively. Pearson's test did not show any positive correlation between optical density and percentage weight of optical density chemical elements. It was concluded that the microhybrid resins had higher optical density means than the microfilled resins; among the evaluated resins, Charisma had the highest optical density means.

Pulmonary function in aluminium smelter and surrounding community--a case study.

The increase of industrial activities in the Angul-Talcher area, Orissa resulted in indiscriminate disposal of waste into the environment leading to the deterioration of the quality of the environment, which affects the health of the workers as well as the community people. Considering the magnitude of the problem, the pulmonary function study had been carried out in one of the largest aluminium producing plant of the country as well as surrounding community people. Aluminium is produced from oxides of alumina by Hall-Heroult smelting process. The electrolysis called as aluminium smelting is carried out in an electrolytic cell (pot) having anode, cathode and electrolyte. The aluminium is deposited in the cathode and the oxygen moves towards anode is released. The workers working at the captive power plant (CPP), which is necessary to meet the power demand of the smelter plant were also investigated. 180 smelter plants workers (non-smoker 129, smoker-51) of different sections and 37 captive power plant workers (non-smoker 29, smoker-8) had undergone pulmonary function tests. Besides these, 85 persons from the surrounding community (non-smoker-66, smoker-19) were also investigated. The workers were all male. Spirometric assessments of Vital Capacity (VC), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) were done by Spirovit-sp-10 (Schiller Health Care Ltd, Switzerland) and Wrights Peak flow meter (Clement and Clarke, UK). Different lung volumes like FEV1, FEV1%, and flow rates like FEF200-1200ml, FEF25-75% and FEF75-85% were calculated from the same tracings pulmonary function test (PFT) results of the workers according to different age groups, duration of exposures and smoking habits. The mean values of SVC, FVC and FEV1 of smelter plant workers were found higher compared to the community people but the values of captive power plant workers were very much close to the values of the community people. A gradual decrement of the PFT values was found as duration of exposure increased. Lung volumes and the flow rates were decreased as age increases but in some age groups that trend was not followed. It has been found that in each category of subjects, smokers have the higher mean pulmonary function values compared to the non-smokers. Except the community people in all other cases the different flow rates were found higher in nonsmokers compared to smokers. The restrictive, obstructive and combined restrictive and obstructive types of impairments among the subjects were noticed. The respiratory impairment among the workers as a whole was found higher in smelter plant workers (9.44%) followed by the captive power plant workers (5.40%) and the community people (2.35%). In smelter plant workers both the restrictive and obstructive impairments were found higher compared to captive power plant and the community people.

Estimation of trace elements in sound and carious enamel of primary and permanent teeth by atomic absorption spectrophotometry: an in vitro study.

The influence of trace elements on the prevalence of caries is a complex subject. However, the demonstration of an inverse relationship between caries prevalence and fluoride (F) intake indicates the potential effect of trace elements on caries. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This in vitro study sought to estimate and compare the trace element concentrations in sound and carious enamel of primary and permanent teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty sound and carious primary and permanent teeth, extracted from children and adolescents of Davangere city, were collected. The teeth were divided into four groups (of ten each) and enamel samples were prepared by mechanical grinding. The trace elements were estimated using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The results of our study showed the presence of 18 trace elements (F, Sr, K, Al, Si, Ni, B, Fe, Cu, Mn, Co, Cr, Zn, Mg, Se, Pb, Mo, and V) in the enamel of sound and carious primary and permanent teeth. The mean, standard deviation, and range (at 95% confidence level) were calculated for each element. The concentrations of F, Sr, and K were significantly ( P <0.05) higher in sound enamel of permanent teeth than in sound enamel of primary teeth. The concentrations of F, Sr, K, Al, and Fe were significantly ( P <0.05) higher in sound enamel of permanent teeth than in carious enamel of permanent teeth. The concentrations of F, K, and Si were significantly ( P <0.05) higher in sound enamel of primary teeth than in carious enamel of primary teeth.

Determination of aluminum, cadmium, chromium, lead, and nickel concentrations in some beef offal

In this study, beef offal [liver, heart, tongue, pancreas and kidney] samples collected from different markets in Alexandria city in the period from March to April 2007 were analyzed for aluminum [Al]. cadmium [Cd], chromium [Cr], lead [Pb], and nickel [Ni]. Organs were found to vary in their metal contents. The highest concentrations of metals were as following, Ni [0.079 ppm] in the heart, Cd [0.41 ppm] and Pb [0.2 ppm] in the kidney, Al [2.252 ppm] in the tongue and Cr [0.154 ppm] in the pancreas. Significant correlations were found among the metals, as between Cr and Pb, between Cd and Ni in liver at [P

A geographic information system (GIS) analysis for trace metal assessment of sediments in the Gulf of Paria, Trinidad

The Gulf of Paria is a semi-enclosed shallow basin with increasing coastal development activities along Trinidad's west coast. Sediments present a host for trace metal pollutants from overlying waters, therefore determination of their content is critical in evaluating and detecting sources of marine pollution. This paper presents a Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis of geochemical assessment for trace metals in coastal sediments of the Gulf of Paria. This GIS approach facilitates interpretation of the spatial relationships among key environmental processes. The GIS development involves the integration of spatial and attribute data pertaining to bathymetry, current systems, topography, rivers, land use/land cover and coastal sediments. It employs spatial interpolation and retrieval operations to analyze the total trace metal concentrations of aluminum, copper and lead in the sediments and the clay-enriched sediments, to determine whether they are related to sediment type or are affected by the discharge from anthropogenic sources. Spatial distribution modeling of element concentrations are produced to indicate contamination plumes from possible anthropogenic sources such as rivers entering the Gulf of Paria, and to reveal potential hot spots and dispersion patterns. A direct spatial correlation between clay-enriched sediments and high concentrations of aluminum and lead is detected, however regions of high concentrations of copper and lead indicate a relationship to anthropogenic sources. The effectiveness of GIS for visualization, spatial query and overlay of geochemical analysis is demonstrated.

Alumínio em água tratada para hemodiálise: um problema de saúde pública / Aluminium in hemodialysis water: a public health problem

Garantir e manter a qualidade da água utilizada nos procedimentos de hemodiálise são fatores essenciais para a qualidade de vida do paciente renal crônico, diminuindo a morbidade e hospitalizações. Dos contaminantes metálicos presentes com maior freqüência na água, oalumínio é o que causa maior problema aos pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise. Nestes pacientes são encontrados níveis elevados de alumínio no sangue e em tecidos, o que tem sido relacionado como o principal fator etiológico para o desenvolvimento de encefalopatia,osteomalácia e de anemia microcítica. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar metodologias analíticas para a determinação de alumínio em níveis de ultra-traços...(au)

Alumínio em água tratada para hemodiálise: um problema de saúde pública

Garantir e manter a qualidade da água utilizada nos procedimentos de hemodiálise são fatores essenciais para a qualidade de vida do paciente renal crônico, diminuindo a morbidade e hospitalizações. Dos contaminantes metálicos presentes com maior freqüência na água, oalumínio é o que causa maior problema aos pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise. Nestes pacientes são encontrados níveis elevados de alumínio no sangue e em tecidos, o que tem sido relacionado como o principal fator etiológico para o desenvolvimento de encefalopatia,osteomalácia e de anemia microcítica. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar metodologias analíticas para a determinação de alumínio em níveis de ultra-traços...

Fluoride and aluminum in teas and tea-based beverages

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate fluoride and aluminum concentration in herbal, black, ready-to-drink, and imported teas available in Brazil considering the risks fluoride and aluminum pose to oral and general health, respectively. METHODS: One-hundred and seventy-seven samples of herbal and black tea, 11 types of imported tea and 21 samples of ready-to-drink tea were divided into four groups: I-herbal tea; II-Brazilian black tea (Camellia sinensis); III-imported tea (Camellia sinensis); IV-ready-to-drink tea-based beverages. Fluoride and aluminum were analyzed using ion-selective electrode and atomic absorption, respectively. RESULTS: Fluoride and aluminum levels in herbal teas were very low, but high amounts were found in black and ready-to-drink teas. Aluminum found in all samples analyzed can be considered safe to general health. However, considering 0.07 mg F/kg/day as the upper limit of fluoride intake with regard to undesirable dental fluorosis, some teas exceed the daily intake limit for children. CONCLUSIONS: Brazilian and imported teas made from Camellia sinensis as well as some tea-based beverages are sources of significant amounts of fluoride, and their intake may increase the risk of developing dental fluorosis.

Oligoelementos en la enfermedad de Alzheimer / Trace elements in Alzheimer's disease

Se investigaron cinco metales, aluminio, calcio, cromo, manganeso y zinc en suero, orina y cabello de enfermos de Alzheimer, comparados con tres testigos sanos de edad similar. La determinación se efectuó por Absorción Atómica en la llama o electrotérmica. No se hallaron diferencias significativas con los testigos. Esto indicaría que estos oligoelementos en especial el aluminio no guardan una relación causal directa con la enfermedad.

Alumínio em diálise: uma visäo analítica / Aluminum in dialysis: an analytical view

Uma das maiores dificuldades encontrada na análise de tratos está na contaminaçäo, principalmente quando concentraçöes muito baixas de uma espécie abundante como o alumínio devem ser medidas. A dificuldade é ainda maior quando muitas etapas para a análise säo necessárias, pois há uma extramanipulaçäo da amostra. Este artigo descreve o grau de contaminaçäo e o seu controle na análise de traços de alumínio em soluçöes para diálise, onde concentraçöes de alumínio em torno de 15 mug/l devem ser determinadas, bem como a contaminaçäo por alumínio encontrada em materiais e outros fluidos utilizados em diálise.

Características químicas de las aguas destinadas a la hemodiálisis en Hospitales de Cuba / Chemical characteristics of water used for hemodialysis in Cuban hospitals

Se evaluó la calidad química de las aguas empleadas en la hemodiálisis en 9 hospitales del país que brindan este servicio a pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica terminal. En estos hospitales están representados los tipos de agua y sistemas de tratamiento de éstas más frecuentemente utilizados en el país. Los contaminantes químicos analizados en el agua fueron: aluminio, cloro, cobre, nitratos, zinc, cadmio, plomo, calcio, magnesio, sodio y potasio. Se desarrolló un método para la determinación del aluminio en el agua por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica con atomización electrotérmica. Los resultados se evaluaron tomando como referencia las normas de la Asociación para el Progreso de los Instrumentos Médicos de los Estados Unidos de América (AAMI). De forma general, las aguas de peor calidad empleadas en la hemodiálisis correspondieron a las efluentes de ablandadores