A Framework for Real-Time Gestural Recognition and Augmented Reality for Industrial Applications.

In recent decades, technological advancements have transformed the industry, highlighting the efficiency of automation and safety. The integration of augmented reality (AR) and gesture recognition has emerged as an innovative approach to create interactive environments for industrial equipment. Gesture recognition enhances AR applications by allowing intuitive interactions. This study presents a web-based architecture for the integration of AR and gesture recognition, designed to interact with industrial equipment. Emphasizing hardware-agnostic compatibility, the proposed structure offers an intuitive interaction with equipment control systems through natural gestures. Experimental validation, conducted using Google Glass, demonstrated the practical viability and potential of this approach in industrial operations. The development focused on optimizing the system's software and implementing techniques such as normalization, clamping, conversion, and filtering to achieve accurate and reliable gesture recognition under different usage conditions. The proposed approach promotes safer and more efficient industrial operations, contributing to research in AR and gesture recognition. Future work will include improving the gesture recognition accuracy, exploring alternative gestures, and expanding the platform integration to improve the user experience.

Rapid response of a public health reference laboratory to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduction. Brazil was one of the most affected countries by the COVID-19 pandemic. Instituto Adolfo Lutz (IAL) is the reference laboratory for COVID-19 in São Paulo, the most populous state in Brazil. In April 2020, a secondary diagnostic pole named IAL-2 was created to enhance IAL's capacity for COVID-19 diagnosis.Hypothesis/Gap Statement. Public health laboratories must be prepared to rapidly respond to emerging epidemics or pandemics.Aim. To describe the design of IAL-2 and correlate the results of RT-qPCR tests for COVID-19 with secondary data on suspected cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the São Paulo state.Methodology. This is a retrospective study based on the analysis of secondary data from patients suspected of infection by SARS-CoV-2 whose clinical samples were submitted to real-time PCR after reverse transcription (RT-qPCR) at IAL-2, between 1 April 2020 and 8 March 2022. RT-qPCR Ct results of the different kits used were also analysed.Results. IAL-2 was implemented in April 2020, just over a month after the detection of the first COVID-19 case in Brazil. The laboratory performed 304,250 RT-qPCR tests during the study period, of which 98 319 (32.3 %) were positive, 205827 (67.7 %) negative, and 104 (0.03 %) inconclusive for SARS-CoV-2. RT-qPCR Ct values≤30 for E/N genes of SARS-CoV-2 were presented by 79.7 % of all the samples included in the study.Conclusion. IAL was able to rapidly implement a new laboratory structure to support the processing of an enormous number of samples for diagnosis of COVID-19, outlining strategies to carry out work with quality, using different RT-qPCR protocols.

Oral Lesions as the Primary Manifestations of Behçet's Disease: The Importance of Interdisciplinary Diagnostics-A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Behçet's disease (BD) is a rare chronic auto-inflammatory systemic disease with non-specific oral manifestations, categorised as generalised variable vessel vasculitis that requires an interdisciplinary approach to diagnose due to its phenotypic heterogeneity. Whilst the oral lesions that reoccur in BD underpin the complex diagnostic process, the crucial role of dental professionals is highlighted in a case report summarised herein. We present a case of a 47-year-old male referred to the Oral Medicine Department by a rheumatologist after previous hospitalization for thrombosis of the iliac vein and inferior vena cava. He had elevated inflammatory C-reactive protein biomarker and an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Recurrent episodes of folliculitis, oral and genital ulcers were reported. Clinical examination revealed multiple ulcerations in the oral mucosa. The complementary, histopathological analysis performed to rule out other disorders, based on excisional biopsy, showed non-keratinised stratified squamous epithelium with areas of exocytosis and ulceration. The connective tissue presented an intense mixed inflammatory infiltrate, congested blood vessels, haemorrhage, vasculitis, and HLA-B genotyping identified the expression of HLA-B15, further supporting the BD diagnosis. Treatment was initiated with colchicine, prednisolone, and weekly subcutaneous administration of methotrexate and resulted in the complete remission of oral lesions and no recurrence of other manifestations. CONCLUSIONS: This BD case report emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in diagnosing BD, including the use of histopathological assessment and genetic profiling. It highlights the significance of thorough intraoral assessment and referral to a multidisciplinary team for diagnosis. The oral manifestations of BD as the primary symptoms often indicate underlying major systemic pathologies. The authors stress the need for a structured diagnostic algorithm to facilitate timely and effective management of BD.

Challenging of treating patients with exfolliative cheilittis: Report of two cases.

Cheilitis is a term given to the inflammation that occurs in the vermillion of the lips. The exfoliative type is an uncommon form of cheilitis, which is characterized by inflammation and desquamation of the lip. It can cause aesthetic problems and compromise daily eating and phonation. The aim of this paper is to describe two cases of exfoliative cheilitis in young persons under periods of emotional stress and parafunctional habits. A 22-year-old white male and an 18-year-old black female presenting edema, intense dryness, and slight desquamation on the vermilion of the lips. In the second case, fissures with bleeding were also observed. Oral lesions were associated with intense emotional stress. The diagnosis of both was made based on the clinical presentation and the exclusion of other conditions. Although the patients have presented a significant improvement after the corticosteroid treatment, they still have a recurrence in stressful episodes. Detailed clinical examination and complementary exams are fundamental for determining associated factors and correctly diagnosing exfoliative cheilitis. Treatment can be challenging, especially in the face of relapses. Key words:Cheilitis, exfoliative cheilitis, oral lesions, stress psychological.

CuO nanoparticles decorated on hydroxyapatite/ferrite magnetic support: photocatalysis, cytotoxicity, and antimicrobial response.

Photocatalysts supported in magnetic nanocomposites for application in environmental remediation processes have been evaluated for removing contaminants due to easy recovery and low toxicity to the ecosystem. In this work, copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles with photocatalytic properties were decorated on magnetic support constituted by hydroxyapatite (HAP) and ferrite to achieve efficiency in contaminated water remediation under visible light irradiation. First, nanomaterials were obtained by precipitation route, allowing fast and straightforward synthesis. Then, CuO nanoparticles with 6 nm diameter were efficiently decorated on magnetic support (25 nm), showing a high ability to absorb visible light irradiation (bandgap) to promote electronic transition and charge separation. Under visible irradiation, CuO promotes the H2O2 reduction in the conduction band (BC) to form hydroxyl radicals (•OH), which are responsible for rhodamine B (RhB) dye degradation (> 90% in 60 min). Magnetic hysteresis assays confirmed the magnetic properties of HAP/ferrite support, which enabled the recovery and reuse of the magnetic photocatalyst efficiently up to 3 cycles. Due to low Cu2+ leaching after the photocatalytic application stage, cytotoxicity assay for the Allium cepa seeds did not exhibit abnormal cells other than those commonly found. Furthermore, the CuO-decorated nanoparticles showed bactericidal activity against S. aureus (Gram-positive) and E. coli (Gram-negative) microorganisms, being more significant for the first one. Thus, the developed nanocomposite of CuO nanoparticles decorated on the magnetic support surface showed to be a complete system for water remediation, acting in contaminant degradation under visible light irradiation and bactericidal control with environmentally friendly characteristics.Graphical abstract CuO nanoparticles decorated on hydroxyapatite/ferrite magnetic support acting as a photocatalytic and bactericidal system.

A atuação do enfermeiro diante da violência doméstica com o abuso de álcool: revisão de literatura / The role of nurses in the face of domestic violence with alcohol abuse: a literature review / El papel de las enfermeras frente a la violencia doméstica con el abuso de alcohol: una revisión de la literatura

Objetivo: Portanto, o presente estudo tem como objetivo verificar na literatura recente o que há publicado sobre a atuação da enfermagem na prevenção e detecção dos casos de violência doméstica em que há o consumo/uso abusivo de álcool envolvido. Método: Trata-se de um estudo de revisão bibliográfica, com base de dados relacionadas às seguintes ferramentas: BVS, SCIELO e PUBMED com base nos anos de 2017/2022. Resultados: Foram selecionados quinze artigos referentes ao tema e, após interpretação destes, notou-se a importância da atuação do enfermeiro diante da violência doméstica com o abuso de álcool. Conclusão: A mulher em situação de violência doméstica deve receber o amparo: familiar, institucional (estatal), tais como: jurídico (defensoria pública e Ministério Público), policial e serviço social. Também se faz necessário os serviços de saúde. Profissionais de enfermagem devem ser capacitados para prestar uma melhor assistência às vítimas

Objective: To analyze issues related to information on behavioral factors between alcohol abuse and violence and to analyze the importance of nursing care. Method: This is a bibliographic review study, with a database related to the tools: BVS, SCIELO and PUBMED based on the years 2017/202. Results: Fifteen articles referenced to the theme were selected and, after interpretation, the importance of the nurse's role in the face of domestic violence with alcohol abuse was noted. Conclusion: The woman in a situation of domestic violence, police must receive support: family (state), such as: legal (public defender and prosecutor and social service). Health services are also needed. Nursing professionals must be taken care of to provide better assistance to the victims

Objetivo: Analisar questões relacionadas a informações sobre fatores comportamentais entre o uso abusivo de álcool, violência doméstica e analisar a importância do cuidado de enfermagem. Método: Trata-se de um estudo de revisão bibliográfica, baseado em dados referentes às seguintes ferramentas: BVS, SCIELO e PUBMED com base nos anos 2017/2022. Resultados: Foram selecionados quinze artigos referentes ao tema e, além da interpretação destes, notou-se a importância da conduta do enfermeiro diante da violência doméstica como o uso abusivo de álcool. Conclusão: A mulher em situação de violência doméstica deve receber ou amparo: familiar, institucional (estatal), como: jurídico (Defensoria Pública e Ministério Público), Polícia e Serviço Social. Os serviços de saúde também são necessários. Os profissionais de enfermagem devem ser capacitados para prestar melhor assistência às vítimas

Effects of salinity and plant-based diet or animal-plant combination diet on the performance and metabolic status of juvenile Nile tilapia / Efeitos da salinidade e de dietas contendo ingredientes de origem vegetal ou de origem animal e vegetal no desempenho e na condição metabólica de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of salinity and plant-based diet or animal-plant combination diet on the performance and metabolic status of juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The experimental design was completely randomized in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme with four replicates. The treatments were established by the combination of salinities of 0, 10, 20, and 30 g L-1 with an animal-plant combination diet (AP) or plant-based diet (P). The replicates were 60 L tanks with 12 fish per tank. Diets were provided for 32 days, and the fish were fed three times a day (8, 12, and 17 h) until apparent satiety. Daily feed intake (DFI) was measured, body weight (BW) was recorded at the beginning and end of the trial, and total length (TL) and standard length (SL) were measured at the end of the trial. Average daily gain (ADG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and survival rate were calculated. After the biometric measurements were made at the end of the trial, blood samples were collected to determine the plasma concentrations of total protein (TP), glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG). The fish were euthanized, and the hepatopancreas was collected and weighed; thereafter, the hepatosomatic index (HSI) was calculated. An interaction was detected between salinity and diet type for final BW, ADG, TL, and SL. These traits were not influenced by salinity when it was associated with the AP diet, but reduced linearly with salinity in the P diet. DFI and survival rate were independently affected by salinity: DFI reduced linearly with salinity levels and survival rate was higher at a salinity of 10 g L-1. HSI increased linearly with salinity levels and was lower in the P diet than in the AP diet. Salinity had a quadratic effect on plasma TP, and the maximum value for this metabolite (2.96 g dL-1) is attained at a salinity of 10.26 g L-1. There was an independent effect of diet on the plasma concentrations of cholesterol and TG, which were lower in the P diet than in the AP diet. The salinity of 10 g L-1 associated with diet composed of animal and plant ingredients led to a better performance, higher survival rate, and less stressful environmental conditions for juvenile Nile tilapia.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da salinidade e de dietas compostas por ingredientes de origem vegetal, ou por ingredientes de origem animal e vegetal no desempenho e na condição metabólica de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). O delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 4 × 2 com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram estabelecidos pela combinação das salinidades 0, 10, 20 e 30 g L-1 com dietas contendo apenas ingredientes de origem vegetal (V) ou ingredientes de origem animal e vegetal (AV). As repetições foram caixas de 60 L contendo 12 peixes por caixa. As dietas foram fornecidas durante 32 dias e os peixes foram alimentados três vezes ao dia (8, 12 e 17 h) até saciedade aparente. O consumo de ração foi mensurado diariamente (CRD), o peso corporal (PC) foi registrado no início e no final do experimento, e o comprimento total (CT) e comprimento padrão (CP) foram mensurados no final do experimento. O ganho médio diário (GMD), a taxa de crescimento específico (TCE), a conversão alimentar (CA) e a taxa de sobrevivência também foram calculadas. Após a obtenção das medidas biométricas ao final do experimento, amostras de sangue foram coletadas para determinar as concentrações plasmáticas de proteínas totais (PT), glicose, colesterol e triglicerídeos (TG). Posteriormente, os peixes foram eutanasiados e o hepatopâncreas foi coletado, pesado e o índice hepatossomático (IHS) foi calculado. Houve interação entre salinidade e tipo de dieta para PC final, GMD, CT e CP. Essas variáveis não foram influenciadas pela salinidade quando associada com a dieta AV, mas reduziram linearmente com a salinidade na dieta V. O CRD e a taxa de sobrevivência foram influenciados exclusivamente pela salinidade, onde o CRD reduziu linearmente com a salinidade, e a taxa de sobrevivência foi maior na salinidade de 10 g L-1. O IHS aumentou linearmente com a salinidade, e foi menor da dieta V comparado com a dieta AV. Houve efeito quadrático da salinidade na concentração plasmática de PT, em que o máximo valor para este metabólito (2.96 g dL-1) pode ser alcançado com a salinidade de 10.26 g L-1. As concentrações plasmáticas de colesterol e TG foram exclusivamente influenciadas pelo tipo de dieta, apresentando menores valores na dieta V comparados com a dieta AV. A salinidade de 10 g L-1 associada com dieta composta por ingredientes de origem animal e vegetal proporcionou melhor desempenho, maior taxa de sobrevivência e condições ambientais menos estressantes aos juvenis de tilápia do Nilo.(AU)

Applicability of the Geographic Tongue Area and Severity Index among Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Clinical Validation of a Newly Developed Geographic Tongue Scoring System.

Geographic tongue (GT) is a chronic condition of unknown aetiology, with no defined parameters to establish the protocol for evidence-based management. Validation of a newly developed and proposed clinical index to assess the severity of GT could assist in its diagnosis, especially in cases associated with systemic dermatological diseases in the form of psoriasis. OBJECTIVE: To verify the applicability of the geographic tongue area and severity index (GTASI). This involved healthcare professionals from different specialties to evaluate the usefulness of the GTASI in supporting GT classification, as well as the follow-up process. METHODS: One hundred cases of previously diagnosed GT were initially evaluated by three independent, experienced researchers/clinicians to obtain a standardised classification baseline. Subsequently, nine cases of GT were selected, three cases for each category-mild, moderate and severe. These stages were professionally evaluated by 51 healthcare professionals from three groups: 17 dentists (33%), 22 oral medicine specialists (43%) and 12 specialist dermatologists (24%) during a cross-sectional survey. RESULTS: The quantitative and qualitative assessment based on experts' opinions in the cross-sectional survey demonstrated an acceptable, similar level of GT clinical diagnosis (p > 0.05), with coherence between the various groups of professionals critically appraising the GTASI. An apparent divergence was observed for the moderate GT category, as well as in the group of less experienced evaluators. CONCLUSION: Whilst the validation of GTASI applicability was successfully executed, the general dental practitioners, specialists in oral medicine and dermatologists were equally capable of correct GT diagnosis and appropriately rating its severity. These coherent results were especially replicated among the experienced clinicians. The validation of the newly proposed index confirmed its reliability as a feasible instrument in oral medicine, with the prospect of its wider implementation in clinical practice.

Oral Lichen Planus Associated With Lichen Planus Pigmentosus and Lichen Sclerosus in Monozygotic Twins.

ABSTRACT: Lichen planus (LP) is a mucocutaneous immune-mediated disease of unknown etiology. It is more prevalent in women and usually occurs between the third and sixth decades of life. Oral lesions may or may not be associated with skin and genital lesions. Although the role of genetic factors is still undetermined, reports of LP in more than one family member are not uncommon. However, the occurrence of LP in monozygotic twins is rare. We report a rare case of 42-year-old female monozygotic twins presenting oral LP. This report is even rarer because one of the patients had cutaneous lesions of an unusual variant of LP (LP pigmentosus) and the other had an uncommon association with lichen sclerosus. The etiology and pathogenesis of LP are still uncertain. However, despite being rare, its occurrence in family members and monozygotic twins suggests that genetic factors are involved in its development.

Análise do filme iris sob o olhar da enfermagem gerontológica / Analysis of the iris film from the perspective of gerontological nursing

Objetivo: realizar uma análise do filme "Iris", buscando destacar e apresentar, à luz da Enfermagem Gerontológica, temas relevantes ao cuidado do idoso diagnosticado com demência do tipo Alzheimer. Método: análise fílmica que buscará apresentar as articulações imagéticas que formam os produtos artísticos audiovisuais, dotando-os de significados, buscando explicar cenas, esclarecer pontos e propor a sua interpretação. Resultados: a análise desse filme de drama--romance mostrou o papel importante que John Bayley teve enquanto cuidador de Iris, estimulando-a e, consequentemente, fortalecendo-a na busca por promoção de saúde e qualidade de vida. Conclusão: a reflexão sob o olhar da Enfermagem Gerontológica surge também no contexto dos idosos fragilizados ou doentes, sendo uma importante opção de suporte à família cuidadora, auxiliando em esforços conjuntos na busca e na conquista de políticas e programas queviabilizem uma assistência condigna, em quaisquer condições e circunstâncias e à conservação da sua dignidade na vida social.(AU)

Objective: to carry out an analysis of the film "Iris", seeking to highlight and present, in the light of gerontological nursing, relevant themes for the care of the elderly diagnosed with alzheimer's type dementia. Method: film analysis, which will seek to present the image articu-lations that form audiovisual artistic products, endowing them with meanings, seeking to explain scenes, clarify points and propose their interpretation. Results: the analysis of this drama-romance film showed the important role that John Bayley played as Iris's caregiver, stimulating and, consequently, strengthening her in the search for health promotion and quality of life. Conclusion: reflection from the perspective of gerontological nursing also arises in the context of frail or sick elderly people, being an important option to support the family caregiver, assisting in joint efforts in the search for and conquest ofpolicies and programs that enable decent care, in conditions and circumstances and the preservation of their dignity in social life.(AU)

Risco nutricional e fatores associados em idosos com HIV/aids em uso de terapia antirretroviral nas unidades de referência / Nutritional risk and associated factors in older people with HIV / AIDS and use of antiretroviral therapy in reference centers

Resumo Objetivo identificar o risco nutricional de pessoas idosas com HIV/aids em uso de terapia antirretroviral (TARV) e fatores associados. Método estudo de natureza transversal e analítico. Participaram 241 idosos cadastrados nos Serviços de Referência para tratamento de HIV/aids do Município de Recife/PE, Brasil. A variável dependente correspondeu ao risco nutricional, avaliado por meio da Mini Avaliação Nutricional e as independentes incluíram: dados sociodemográficos, estilo de vida e condições de saúde. ResuItados foram identificados 44% dos participantes com risco nutricional e verificada associação entre risco nutricional e sexo feminino, escolaridade entre 1-4 anos de estudo e sintomatologia depressiva. Conclusão Sugere-se a inclusão de medidas de rastreio para intervenção precoce do estado nutricional como a Mini Avaliação Nutricional na rotina do cuidado, com vistas a possibilitar maior integralidade na assistência e redução de riscos de morbimortalidade associada ao HIV.

Abstract Objective To identify the nutritional risk of older people with HIV / AIDS and the associated factors. Method It is a cross-sectional and analytical study. 241 older people from the Reference Services in Recife/PE, Brazil participated. The dependent variable was Nutritional risk, assessed by the Mini Nutritional Assessment and the independent ones, the sociodemographic, lifestyle and health conditions. Results 44% of participants with nutritional risk were identified. There was an association between nutritional risk and female gender, education between 1-4 years of study and symptoms of depression. Conclusion It is suggested to include screening measures for early intervention of nutritional status, such as Mini Nutritional Assessment in the care routine, with a view to enabling greater comprehensiveness in care in Gerontology and reducing the risk of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease, and promoting longevity of better quality for those living with HIV.

Nose-to-brain drug delivery mediated by polymeric nanoparticles: influence of PEG surface coating.

Intranasal administration of mucus-penetrating nanoparticles is an emerging trend to increase drug delivery to the brain. In order to overcome rapid nasal mucociliary clearance, low epithelial permeation, and local enzymatic degradation, we investigated the influence of PEGylation on nose-to-brain delivery of polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles (PCL-NPs) encapsulating bexarotene, a potential neuroprotective compound. PEGylation with 1, 3, 5, and 10% PCL-PEG did not affect particle diameter or morphology. Upon incubation with artificial nasal mucus, only 5 and 10% of PCL-PEG coating were able to ensure NP stability and homogeneity in mucus. Rapid mucus-penetrating ability was observed for 98.8% of PCL-PEG5% NPs and for 99.5% of PCL-PEG10% NPs. Conversely, the motion of non-modified PCL-NPs was markedly slower. Fluorescence microscopy showed that the presence of PEG on NP surface did not reduce their uptake by RMPI 2650 cells. Fluorescence tomography images evidenced higher translocation into the brain for PCL-PEG5% NPs. Bexarotene loaded into PCL-PEG5% NPs resulted in area under the curve in the brain (AUCbrain) 3 and 2-fold higher than that for the drug dispersion and for non-PEGylated NPs (p < 0.05), indicating that approximately 4% of the dose was directly delivered to the brain. Combined, these results indicate that PEGylation of PCL-NPs with PCL-PEG5% is able to reduce NP interactions with the mucus, leading to a more efficient drug delivery to the brain following intranasal administration. Graphical abstract.

Processamento e caracterização de creme de queijo coalho com óleo de peixe / Processing and characterization of coalho cheese cream with fish oil

O óleo de peixe é fonte de ômega 3, que atua no combate, prevenção e/ou tratamento de doenças crônicas. O queijo coalho é bastante consumido no Nordeste brasileiro, e na forma de creme adicionado de óleo de peixe torna-se uma nova alternativa para o consumidor. Assim, objetivou-se desenvolver e avaliar formulações de creme de queijo coalho (CQQ) com orégano, com ou sem óleo de peixe. Inicialmente, foi realizada uma pesquisa com 70 consumidores de queijo, seguida da elaboração de três formulações de CQQ (F1: sem óleo de peixe; F2: com 0,54g óleo de peixe; F3: com 1,08g de óleo de peixe). Obtidos os CQQs, as formulações (F1, F2 e F3) foram avaliadas no que se refere a: fungos, coliformes totais e termotolerantes, estafilococus coagulase positiva e Salmonella sp; aceitação e preferência sensorial; composição centesimal, fenólicos totais, atividade antioxidante, pH, acidez total titulável e valor calórico. O sabor foi o fator mais importante na escolha de um produto, sendo o ômega 3 (54,28%) e o orégano (57,14%) escolhidos pela maioria dos entrevistados. Todas as formulações estavam seguras microbiologicamente e apresentaram a mesma aceitabilidade e preferência sensorial. A aceitabilidade variou entre 7,43 a 8,13. As formulações de CQQ são de acordo com a legislação, desnatadas (1,77 a 2,66% de lipídios), têm muito alta umidade (≥55%) e baixa acidez (3,12 a 3,28g ácido lácteo/100g), e apresentaram expressiva atividade antioxidante e potencial para comercialização (índice de aceitação ≥70%). Os CQQs são viáveis para incorporação de óleo de peixe, sendo um produto fonte de ômega 3 e que pode apresentar propriedade funcional. (AU)

Fish oil is a source of omega 3 that acts in the fight, prevention and/or treatment of chronic diseases. Coalho cheese is largely consumed in the Northeastern Brazil, and in the form of cream added with fish oil it becomes a new alternative to consumers. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop and assess coalho cheese cream (CCC) formulations added with oregano, with or without fish oil. Firstly, a survey was conducted with 70 cheese consumers, followed by the preparation of three CCC formulations (F1: without fish oil; F2: with 0.54g of fish oil; F3: with 1.08g of fish oil). The CCC formulations (F1, F2 and F3) were analyzed for fungi, total and thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive staphylococci, and Salmonella sp.; acceptability and sensory preference were also assessed, as well as the centesimal composition, total phenols, antioxidant activity, pH, total titratable acidity and calories. Taste was the most important factor in the choice of the product, being omega 3 (54.28%) and oregano (57.14%) chosen by the majority of the participants. All formulations were microbiologically safe and had the same acceptability and sensory preference. The acceptability index varied from 7.43 to 8.13. The CCC formulations are in conformity with legislation, are low fat (1.77 to 2.66% of lipids), have high moisture (>55%) and low acidity (3.12 to 3.28g of lactic acid/100g), and have an expressive antioxidant activity and marketing potential (acceptability was >70%). The CCCs are viable for incorporation of fish oil, being an omega-3 source product with functional property. (AU)

Alcoholic extract of propolis in Nile tilapia post-larvae and fingerlings' diets: effects on production performance, body composition and intestinal histology.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the production performance of Nile tilapia post-larvae and fingerlings fed with increasing levels of alcoholic extract of propolis into diets. In Experiment 1, 1800 post-larvae were distributed in 30 tanks, in a completely randomized design with five treatments composed by the inclusion of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 g of dry propolis/kg of feed, and six replicates. In experiment 2, 1600 fingerlings were distributed in the same system and designed as experiment 1. No significant effect was observed between treatments, for final weight, total and standard length, survival, and intestinal villus height. However, the propolis extract inclusion of 1 g/kg in Nile tilapia post-larvae and fingerlings' feed resulted in a better body condition factor and higher body protein deposition (p<0.05). The condition factor is an estimate for the future growth of the animals, possibly the fish treated with propolis extract will present better growth, survival and greater reproductive potential rates. The results of the present study demonstrate that alcoholic extract of propolis improves the nutritional condition of Nile tilapia post-larvae and fingerlings, potentially leading to increased productivity in subsequent stages, as well as leading to improvement in fingerlings muscle deposition.

Detection and quantification of Salmonella spp. in poultry slaughterhouses of southern Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Salmonella is a major cause of foodborne illness throughout the world. The use of quantitative techniques is important for assessing the risk and determining the capacity of each step of the slaughtering process to decrease or increase bacterial contamination. We aimed to detect and to quantify the presence of Salmonella in Brazilian processing plants by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). METHODOLOGY: A total of 139 poultry slaughterhouses samples were collected in order to detect to and quantify Salmonella by qPCR. RESULTS: Almost all collection points (3/18), except water from pre-chiller tank, carcasses after pre-chiller, and carcasses frozen at -12ºC for 60 days, and 49% (68/139) of samples were positive for Salmonella. Quantification means varied equally among all of the tested sources, and we could not establish any pattern of variation. A large proportion (52.6%) of cloacal swabs was Salmonella-positive. Also, contamination in transport cages was increased after the cleaning process, indicating that the process was ineffective. The overall prevalence in samples obtained during the slaughtering process was 48.9%, and on the whole rinsed carcasses, this proportion was 50%. The detection of Salmonella in frozen carcasses, even after long periods of storage, indicates that the carcasses are a potential source of infection for consumers. CONCLUSIONS: We found that contamination levels remain similar throughout the slaughtering. qPCR proved to be an efficient method for the detection of Salmonella.

Avaliação da superfície de fios ortodônticos de NiTi após utilização de produtos contendo fluoretos / Evaluation of NiTi orthodontic wires surfaces after use of fluoride products

A resistência à abrasão e à corrosão de três fios ortodônticos de níquel titânio (Superelastic, 3M; Turbo Wire, Ormco e Copper NiTi, Ormco) frente ao uso de flúor e escovação foram avaliados através de simulação in vitro. Foram utilizadas a microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) para avaliação da morfologia superficial e espectroscopia por dispersão em energia (EDS) para avaliação da composição química elementar dos fios antes e após os experimentos. Vinte segmentos de cada fio foram obtidos e divididos em dois grupos, contendo dez amostras de cada tipo, sendo que, em um grupo, as amostras foram imersas em solução de fluoreto de sódio 0,05% por tempo equivalente a 1 mês de bochechos diários de 1 minuto. No outro grupo, foram feitas escovações dos fios por período de tempo referente a um mês de 3 escovações diárias com creme dental contendo fluoreto de sódio a 0,24%. As imagens obtidas das superfícies dos fios foram analisadas por comparação observacional descritiva. Todas as amostras usadas no experimento se mostraram susceptíveis a modificações diante da escovação com pasta contendo fluoreto de sódio. Já frente à imersão em solução, os fios que mais apresentaram alterações foram o Superelastic e o Copper NiTi, mostrando aumento de pites de corrosão e aprofundamento de sulcos preexistentes. A composição química elementar dos fios manteve-se inalterada frente aos experimentos. Concluiu-se que a escovação e os fluoretos afetam as superfícies dos fios, podendo aumentar o atrito e o acúmulo de biofilme na superfície durante o tratamento ortodôntico.(AU)

Abrasion and corrosion resistance of three nickel-titanium orthodontic wires (Superelastic, 3M; Turbo Wire, Ormco and Copper NiTi, Ormco) under sodium fluoride usage and tooth brushing were evaluated through in vitro simulation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for morphological surface analysis and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) for elementary chemical composition were used for evaluation of the wires before and after assays. Twenty segments of each wire were obtained and divided in two groups containing ten samples of each type. One group of samples was immersed in sodium fluoride solution 0.05% during equivalent time of one month of daily 1 minute mouthwashes. In the other group the wires were brushed three times daily using a dental cream with sodium fluoride 0.24% during one month. Wire surfaces images obtained were analyzed by means of comparative observational description. All samples exhibited superficial changes under tooth brushing with fluoride dental cream. Considering fluoride solution immersion, Superplastic and Copper NiTi showed increasing in pitches of corrosion and deepening of existing grooves. Elementary chemical composition of wires remained unaltered. Concluding, tooth brushing and fluorides affect the surfaces of NiTi orthodontic wires, which may increase the friction and accumulation of biofilm in the surface during orthodontic treatment. (AU)

Comparison of nuclear abnormalities in Astyanax bifasciatus Cuvier, 1819 (Teleostei: Characidae) of two sections of rivers from the middle Iguaçu / Comparação de anormalidades nucleares em Astyanax bifasciatus Cuvier, 1819 (Teleostei: Characidae) de dois trechos de rios do médio Iguaçu

Most changes in water bodies are result of human activities that have the potential to undermine the environmental integrity of aquatic ecosystems. Changes in genetic material can be evidenced by the frequency of nuclear abnormalities in fish blood cells, in response to genotoxic agents even at low concentrations. Thus, we aimed at comparing the frequencies of nuclear abnormalities of fish kept in acclimation, with fish collected in Timbó river (Santa Cruz do Timbó, Santa Catarina State), under low anthropogenic interference, and fish collected in Iguaçu river (União da Vitória, Paraná State), a polluted river. The highest frequency of changes in nuclear morphology of fish erythrocytes was found in the urbanized area around the Iguaçu river, while, the fish collected in areas with preserved riparian forest surrounding the Timbó river and acclimated fish showed no morphological changes. Our results suggest that genotoxic compounds in the Iguaçu river are acting as stressors to aquatic communities, especially fish. In addition, the absence of nuclear abnormalities in fish from the Timbó river suggests that rivers without significant environmental changes can serve as reference point for comparative studies of genetic modifications for the species studied.(AU)

A maioria das alterações dos corpos hídricos é resultante das atividades antrópicas que são prejudiciais à integridade ambiental dos ecossistemas aquáticos. Alterações no material genético podem ser evidenciadas pela frequência de anormalidades nucleares em peixes, em resposta a agentes genotóxicos, mesmo em baixas concentrações. Dessa forma, o estudo consistiu em comparar as frequências de anormalidades nucleares de peixes mantidos em aclimatação, com peixes coletados no rio Timbó (Santa Cruz do Timbó, Estado de Santa Catarina), local com pouca interferência antropogênica e, peixes coletados no rio Iguaçu (União da Vitória, Estado do Paraná), um rio poluído. As maiores frequências de alterações na morfologia nuclear dos eritrócitos dos peixes foram visualizadas na área urbanizada ao redor do rio Iguaçu, quando comparados com os peixes coletados em área com mata ciliar preservada, no rio Timbó, e os peixes aclimatados, que não apresentaram alterações morfológicas. Esses resultados sugerem que há compostos genotóxicos no trecho médio do rio Iguaçu que são estressores para os peixes. Além disso, a não observação de anormalidades nucleares no rio Timbó sugere que rios sem alterações ambientais podem servir como ponto de referência para estudos comparativos de modificações genéticas para a espécie estudada.(AU)

An Artifact for Evaluating the Quality of Health Service Providers: Evidence From Brazil.

The aim of this article is to present an artifact for evaluating the quality and performance of service providers in the field of health care: the UNIPLUS Program. To verify the scientific nature of the artifact and ensure that it meets the criteria set by the community and the environment, the premises of Design Science Research (DSR) were used. As this research field lacks empirical evidence, the artifact was tested from 2013 to 2015 with 25 health care service providers from different categories, with an emphasis on hospitals and clinics located in 7 cities in the south of Brazil. This article makes 3 main contributions to the field: (1) the artifact can be applied to any health insurance operator in Brazil and other countries, as it meets the legal norms and requirements established by current legislation; (2) it helps health service providers by generating information that identifies shortfalls and possibilities for improvement for every aspect analyzed in the evaluation process; and (3) it uses the DSR methodology in an evaluation artifact that evaluates the quality and performance of services in the field of health care. The artifact proved to be adequate for the purpose in question, helping to improve the quality of care and institutional performance.