Polymers nanofibers as vehicles for the release of the synthetic sex pheromone of Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)

The use of pheromones is a promising alternative in insect management and control. Recently, the incorporation and release of active ingredients from nanofibers has been of interest for agricultural purposes due to their higher surface area to volume ratios. The objective of this study was to produce nanofibers incorporating synthetic sex pheromones from the oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (OFM), using different polymers. The nanofibers with pheromones were produced by electrospinning and were evaluated for: i) homogeneous distribution of OFM pheromone in nanofibers by electroantennography (EAG) tests; ii) dose-responses of OFM males to acetate cellulose nanofibers; iii) EAG responses of OFM males to different polymer nanofibers exposed under controled conditions for up to 5 weeks; iv) attractiveness of G. molesta to nanofibers containing synthetic OFM in field conditions; v) quantification of incorporated pheromone in PCL and PVAc nanofibers using gas chromatography and vi) morphology using scanning electron microscopy. The best field results were achieved in smoother fibers with higher impregnation. Pheromone incorporating nanofiber vehicles were tested that achieved the controlled release of the pheromone for up to three weeks in nanoscale and microscale. The polymer, solvent, and dosage incorporated in the nanofibers were important for controlled delivery. Understanding these factors is important for the development of better pheromone dispensers.El uso de feromonas es una alternativa promisora en el manejo y el control de plagas. Recientemente, la incorporación y eliminación de ingredientes activos de las nanofibras han despertado el interés para objetivos agrícolas debido a su elevada área en comparación a la superficie de proporción de volumen. El objetivo de este estudio fue producir nanofibras incorporando la feromona sexual sintética de la mariposa oriental Grapholita molesta (OFM) utilizando diferentes polímeros. Las nanofibras con feromona producidas por la técnica de electrohilado fueran evaluadas por: i) distribución homogénea de feromona de OFM en nanofibras por testes de electroantenografía (EAG); ii) dosis-respuestas de machos de OFM a nanofibras de acetato de celulosa; iii) respuestas EAG de machos de OFM a diferentes nanofibras de polímeros expuestos a condiciones controladas por hasta 5 semanas; iv) atracción de G. molesta a nanofibras conteniendo feromona sintética en condiciones de campo; v) cualificación de feromonas incorporadas de nanofibras de PCL y PVAc por cromatografía de gas y; vi) su morfología utilizando microscopio electrónico de exploración. Los mejores resultados de campo fueron conseguidos en fibras más blandas con mayor impregnación. Diferentes vehículos de nanofibras incorporando feromona fueron analizadas que consiguieron eliminación controlada de feromona hasta tres semanas, en nano y micro escalas. El polímero, solvente y dosis incorporadas en las nanofibras son importantes para la liberación controlada. Entender estos factores es importante para desarrollar mejores distribuidores de feromonas

Changes in heart rate and blood pressure in sub-18 soccer players tested with Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test

The Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) is an important tool for prescribing and monitoring training. The aim of this study was to evaluate cardiovascular changes by the variables heart rate and blood pressure in soccer players tested with RAST. A trial with 20 soccer players who trained daily and participated in sub-18 soccer championships. The heart rate (HR) was collected at rest (before warming) and right after the end of the test, as well as the systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure. For statistics it was used the paired t-test with p\u3c0.05. The collected data show that the values at resting time point can be considered normal for healthy young people and after the test it was observed that the HR and SBP increased significantly as compared with resting time, and the DPB presented no statistically changes. Conclusion: The results showed that the cardiovascular changes occurring in the RAST test, which is an effort with anaerobic features, are similar to changes in high-intensity aerobic efforts

Uma aplicação da abordagem da análise conjunta de inadimplência (joint-default analysis - JDA) em financiamentos

Bibliografia: p. 174-175O presente artigo apresenta a metodologia da análise conjunta de inadimplência, ou JDA (joint-default analysis), como alternativa às metodologias tradicionais em análise de crédito, tais como: elo mais fraco (weakest link) e substituição do crédito (credit substitution). O texto mostra que essas duas metodologias tradicionais são casos particulares da JDA. O artigo explica os princípios que fundamentam a JDA, incluindo como o uso dos conceitos de correlação e suporte pode aprimorar a avaliação de risco. Finalmente, o texto expõe aplicações potenciais da JDA que podem levar a estimativas mais precisas da probabilidade de inadimplência (probability of default), impactando: (i) precificação; (ii) limites de exposição; (iii) garantias mínimas necessárias; e (iv) provisão para perda por inadimplência.This article presents joint-default analysis (JDA) as an alternative to traditional methods for credit analysis, such as weakest link or credit substitution. The text shows that these two traditional methods are particular cases of JDA. The article explains the principles underlying JDA, including how concepts of correlation and support can improve risk assessment. Finally, the text outlines potential applications of JDA that might lead to better estimates of the probability of default, impacting: (i) pricing; (ii) exposure limits; (iii) minimum guarantees required; and (iv) provisions for expected losses

Bond strength of cemented fiber posts to teeth with simulated internal root resorption

Teeth with internal root resorption (IRR) have guarded prognosis, considering that IRR defect could influence on the post bond strength. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bond strength and the bond interface between different glass fiber-reinforced posts (FRP) after cementation in teeth with simulated internal root resorption (IRR). Forty-five (45) human premolar roots with simulated IRR were embedded in acrylic resin blocks and cross-sectioned into two segments, enabling them to be re-approximated by screws. Intracanal medication was inserted for 15-days, removed by passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) and examined by stereomicroscopy. The push-out bond strength of two fiber reinforced composite posts (Rebilda Post - RP) and Rebilda Post GT ? GT, (VOCO) were evaluated at the cervical and IRR regions (n = 20). And, the bonded interface between resin cement and root dentine was analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). 62.5% of IRR were not completely cleaned by PUI. Bond strength values at the cervical region (9.8 and 14.6 MPa) were higher than the IRR region (6.3 and 4.2 MPa). Micrographies showed bubbles in the cement and spaces in the bonded interface. RP post showed better bond strength at the cervical region while GT had better bond strength at the IRR region

Volto Já:um modelo de negócio na área do turismo social de intercâmbio sénior

Apresenta-se o modelo de negócio do PROJETO VOLTO JÁ, cujo objetivo geral consiste na operacionalização de um programa de intercâmbio social sénior, entre organizações de economia social, procurando promover experiências turísticas aos idosos. O modelo de negócio proposto baseia-se na partilha de recursos como forma de potenciar a proposta de valor acrescentado. O VOLTO JÁ desenvolve um conjunto de ações com impacto direto na mobilidade e inclusão social dos idosos, enquadrando-se nas abordagens conceptuais do turismo social e do turismo para todos. Esta investigação apresenta um processo de recolha de dados com duas fases. Na primeira fase, foi aplicado um questionário a uma amostra de 134 indivíduos seniores institucionalizados, de 8 instituições na região do Alentejo, para caraterizar o perfil dos idosos e os interesses associados à prática de turismo. Na segunda fase, realizaram-se dois focus groups junto de uma amostra de 6 diretores técnicos de Instituições Particulares de Solidariedade Social, de modo a perceber as condições e a disponibilidade de participação dos seniores. Os resultados serão utilizados para desenvolver uma plataforma web para disponibilizar/comercializar, a baixo custo, as ofertas ao nível de pacotes turísticos de turismo social, num trabalho concertado com os agentes da oferta turística.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Turnera subulata Anti-Inflammatory Properties in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

In South America, particularly in the Northeastern regions of Brazil, Turnera subulata leaf extract is used as an alternative traditional medicine approach for several types of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic pain, and general inflammation. Despite its widespread use, little is known about the medicinal properties of the plants of this genus. In this study, we evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory of T. subulata leaf extract in an in vitro model of inflammation, using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW-264.7 macrophage cell line. We observed that cotreatment with T. subulata leaf extract was able to reduce the oxidative stress in cells due to inflammatory response. More importantly, we observed that the leaf extract was able to directly modulate inflammatory response by altering activity of members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Our results demonstrate for the first time that T. subulata have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which warrant further investigation of the medicinal potential of this species.Peer Reviewedhttps://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/140112/1/jmf.2016.0047.pd

Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Leaves of Piptadenia Gonoacantha (mart.) Macbr. In Experimental Animal Models

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/2179460X13555   Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos anti-inflamatórios e antinociceptivos do extrato das folhas de P. gonoacantha (EPG). O efeito tóxico de EPG foi testado contra A. salina, a fim de determinar a dosagem segura para os ensaios subsequentes. A antinocicepção em ratos Wistar foi avaliada utilizando o modelo de contorções abdominais induzidas por ácido acético e testes em placa aquecida. O efeito anti-inflamatório de EPG foi avaliada por testes de edema da pata induzido por carragenina em ratos. O bioensaio com A. salina mostrou uma baixa toxicidade do EPG (LC50 = 1,508 mg.L-1). A administração oral de EPG (50, 100 e 150 mg.kg-1) reduziu significativamente o número de contorções induzidas por ácido acético, em torno de 61,3%, 71,8% e 64,9%, respectivamente. No entanto, o EPG não prolongou o tempo de latência no teste da placa quente, o que sugere que EPG iniba predominantemente os mecanismos de dor periférica. A administração oral de EPG, em doses de 50 e 100mg.kg-1 inibiu significativamente o edema de pata após 3 h de administração do agente flogístico em 34,5% e 37,5%, respectivamente. Estes dados sugerem que a EPG possui atividade tanto antinociceptiva como anti-inflamatória, podendo estes efeitos ser atribuídos à inibição da COX-2 e libertação de prostaglandinas.This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and toxic effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of P.gonoacantha leaves (EPG). The toxic effect of the EPG was tested against A. salina in order to determine a secure dose for subsequent assays. The bioassay with A.salina showed low toxicity of EPG (LC50 1,508mg/L). Oral administration of EPG (50, 100 and 150mg/kg) significantly decreased the number of acetic acid-induced writhes, around 61.3%, 71.8% and 64.9% respectively. However, EPG failed to prolong the latency time in the hot plate test, suggesting that EPG predominantly inhibits peripheral pain mechanisms. The oral administration of EPG at doses of 50 and 100mg/kg significantly inhibited paw edema at 3rd h after the injection of the phlogistic agent by 34.5% and 37.5%, respectively. These data suggest that EPG has both antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, and these effects may be attributed to inhibition of COX-2 and prostaglandin release

Efeitos de tratamento combinado de alendronato de sódio, atorvastatina cálcica e ipriflavona na osteoporose induzida com dexametasona em ratas

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a influência das combinações: bifosfonato (alendronato de sódio) + estatina (atorvastatina cálcica), bifosfonato (alendronato de sódio) + flavonóide (ipriflavona) e estatina (atorvastatina cálcica) + flavonóide (ipriflavona) em ratas com osteoporose induzida pelo glicocorticóide dexametasona. As influências das associações dessas substâncias foram pesquisadas pela análise de testes dos marcadores bioquímicos de remodelação óssea, tais como, cálcio e fósforo sérico, fosfatase alcalina óssea e por exames histomorfométricos, caracterizando a densidade trabecular óssea. Através da avaliação da densidade trabecular óssea foi possível verificar o aumento da mesma em todos os tratamentos efetuados. Ressaltando-se, ainda, que as associações contendo alendronato de sódio apresentaram elevadas taxas de restauração tecidual óssea, alcançando valores superiores aos do grupo dos animais normais. Os marcadores bioquímicos não apresentaram resultados estatisticamente significativos, não fornecendo subsídios para o diagnóstico e acompanhamento da osteoporose. No entanto, a avaliação histomorfométrica permitiu a análise estática e dinâmica, bem como detecção de alterações teciduais na unidade metabólica óssea, particularmente, no osso trabecular.The objective of this work was to study the influence of the combinations: biphosphonate (alendronate of sodium) + statin (calcic atorvastatin), biphosphonate (sodium alendronate) + flavonoid (ipriflavone) and statin (calcic atorvastatin) + flavonoid (ipriflavone) in female rats with osteoporosis induced by the glucocorticoid dexamethasone. The influence of the combinations of those drugs was observed through tests of the biochemical markers of bone remodeling, such as, levels of serum calcium and phosphorus and bone alkaline phosphatase and through histomorphometric exam, visualizing the bone trabecular density. Through the evaluation of the bone trabecular density it was possible to verify the clear increase in any group of treated animals. The combinations with biphosphonate presented high rates of bone tissue restoration, reaching higher values than those of normal animals. The results obtained with biochemical markers were not statistically significant and did not subsidies the diagnosis and the follow of the osteoporosis. However, the histomorphometric evaluation allowed us the static and dynamic analyses as well as detection of tissue alterations in the bone metabolic unit, particularly in the trabecular bone

Navike u konzumaciji ribe u trudnica iz Itaitube, grada na slijevu rijeke Tapajós u Brazilu – rizici od kontaminacije živom procijenjeni mjerenjem ukupne žive u piscivornim ribljim vrstama koje se često konzumiraju i u kosi trudnica

The Tapajós River basin in the Amazon region, Brazil is one of the most active gold mining areas in the world. In this study, we evaluated fish consumption habits and mercury exposure in 110 pregnant women in the city of Itaituba by measuring their total hair mercury concentrations. In addition, we investigated seasonal differences in mercury concentrations in two highly consumed piscivorous fish species, tucunaré (Cichla spp.) and pescada (Plagioscion squamosissimus). Total fish mercury concentrations (THg) during the dry season were 0.62±0.07 mg/kg for Cichla spp. and 0.73±0.08 mg/kg for P. squamosissimus. During the rainy season they were 0.39±0.04 and 0.84±0.08 mg/kg, respectively. Of our participants 44 % declared that they ate Cichla spp. and 67 % P. squamosissimus. Mean mercury concentration in their hair was 1.6±0.2 mg/kg and was above the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) reference dose of 1 mg/kg in 48 % of them. Mean fish THg concentrations were also above the joint Food and Drug Administration and US EPA safety limit of 0.5 mg/kg for P. squamosissimus during both seasons and for Cichla spp. during the dry season only. These results show that pregnant women should avoid consumption of these piscivorous fish species during pregnancy and call for a regular programme to monitor Hg levels in that area.Slijev rijeke Tapajós u amazonskom području u Brazilu jedno je od najaktivnijih područja iskopavanja zlata na svijetu. U ovoj smo studiji procijenili navike konzumiranja ribe i razinu izloženosti metil-živi u 110 stanovnica Itaitube u peripartumu mjerenjem ukupne koncentracije žive u kosi (THg). Osim toga, istražili smo sezonske razlike u koncentracijama žive u dvjema najčešćim vrstama konzumnih piscivornih riba: tucunaré (Cichla spp.) i pescada (Plagioscion squamosissimus). U tih je ribljih vrsta THg tijekom sušne sezone iznosio 0,62±0,07 mg/kg za Cichla spp. te 0,73±0,08 mg/kg za P. squamosissimus. Tijekom kišne sezone koncentracija THg bila je 0,39±0,04 mg/kg za Cichla spp. I 0,84±0,08 mg/kg za P. squamosissimus. Sudionice su izjavile da su konzumirale Cichla spp. (44 %) i P. squamosissimus (67 %). Srednja koncentracija THg izmjerena u kosi bila je 1,6±0,2 mg/kg±std. Prosječna koncentracija THg u kosi bila je viša od referentne doze Američke agencije za zaštitu okoliša (krat. US EPA) koja iznosi 1 mg/kg, a čak u 48 % sudionica izmjerena je viša koncentracija. Također, srednja vrijednost koncentracija THg u ribi bila je iznad sigurnosne granice (0,5 mg/kg) za P. squamosissimus i tijekom sušne i kišne sezone, a za Cichla spp. samo tijekom sušne sezone. Rezultati istraživanja pokazuju da bi trudnice trebale izbjegavati konzumaciju ovih piscivornih ribljih vrsta. Stoga je razvidna potreba za redovitim programom praćenja razine žive na tom području

The Genome of the Zoonotic Malaria Parasite Plasmodium simium Reveals Adaptions to Host-switching

Oral Session