Tuning iris recognition for noisy images

The use of iris recognition for human authentication has been spreading in the past years. Daugman has proposed a method for iris recognition, composed by four stages: segmentation, normalization, feature extraction, and matching. In this paper we propose some modifications and extensions to Daugman's method to cope with noisy images. These modifications are proposed after a study of images of CASIA and UBIRIS databases. The major modification is on the computationally demanding segmentation stage, for which we propose a faster and equally accurate template matching approach. The extensions on the algorithm address the important issue of pre-processing that depends on the image database, being mandatory when we have a non infra-red camera, like a typical WebCam. For this scenario, we propose methods for reflection removal and pupil enhancement and isolation. The tests, carried out by our C# application on grayscale CASIA and UBIRIS images show that the template matching segmentation method is more accurate and faster than the previous one, for noisy images. The proposed algorithms are found to be efficient and necessary when we deal with non infra-red images and non uniform illumination

“Nós temos essa resistência e essa existência. Nós existimos”: Enfrentamentos da Covid-19 pelos Assuriní da terra indígena Trocará

A rápida expansão do vírus SARS-CoV-2 (Novo Coronavírus) pelo Brasil tornou o país no epicentro de uma crise sanitária, social e política, reforçando a lógica excludente das políticas públicas direcionadas aos povos indígenas. Centrando no povo Assuriní da Terra Indígena Trocará, este artigo tem como objetivo analisar como esse povo foi afetado pela pandemia, e destacar suas estratégias de enfrentamento do vírus. Os dados analisados foram obtidos por meio da netnografia, realizando entrevistas com duas lideranças locais usando telefones celulares e aplicativo Whatsapp. Os resultados apontam que a proximidade com a cidade de Tucuruí, a falta de orientações sobre medidas de prevenção e de acesso a tratamento são fatores que contribuí-ram para a morte de lideranças históricas, para acentuar a preca-riedade sanitária, a insegurança alimentar e reforçar a condição de vulnerabilidade social desse povo, levando-os a desenvolver estratégias para ter acesso a alimentos, proteger os moradores e seu território

Ciclosporina no Tratamento da Urticária Crónica Espontânea na Era do Omalizumab

Introduction: In chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) unresponsive to anti H1-histamines, national recommendations propose omalizumab, which is not always promptly available. Thus, other treatments should be discussed. In this context, we have analysed efficacy and safety of cyclosporine and possible relations between characteristics of urticaria and response to cyclosporine.Material and Methods: Retrospective study of CSU patients from a department of dermatology treated with cyclosporine (2010-2016). We evaluated the demographic and clinic-laboratorial parameters, doses, treatment duration, follow-up, side effects and efficacy, using the weekly urticarial activity score 7 (UAS7). Statistical significance was considered for p < 0.05.Results: We evaluated 23 patients (19 female/4 male; mean age 46.0y ± 14.0) with CSU which evolved for 129.7 ± 128.1 months and who were treated with cyclosporine (mean dose 3.2 ± 0.3 mg/kg). There was a good response in 10 patients (44%) at the first month, with a significant mean UAS7 reduction. Side effects from cyclosporine occurred in eight patients, leading to treatment suspension in six patients (26%), mostly due to arterial hypertension and infections. None of the parameters evaluated was associated with response to cyclosporine.Conclusion: Cyclosporine was effective in 44% of patients with moderate to severe CSU. When omalizumab is not immediately available, it may be worth trying cyclosporine, with a narrow monitoring for adverse effects.Introdução: Na urticária crónica espontânea (UCE) refratária a anti-histamínicos, as recomendações nacionais propõem utilizar o omalizumab mas este nem sempre está prontamente disponível, justificando-se discutir o valor de outros fármacos. Neste contexto, analisámos a eficácia e a segurança da ciclosporina e explorámos a relação entre características da urticária e a resposta terapêutica.Material e Métodos: Estudo retrospetivo num serviço de dermatologia (2010-2016). Foram reunidos dados demográficos, clínico-evolutivos e laboratoriais da UCE moderada a grave tratada com ciclosporina, dose, duração do tratamento, período de follow-up e reações adversas. A eficácia foi avaliada pela escala de atividade da urticária durante 7 dias (UAS7). A significância estatística foi definida para 0,05.Resultados: Foram estudados 23 doentes (19 feminino/4 masculino; idade média 46,0 ± 14,0 anos) com UCE que evolui há 129,7 ± 128,1 meses, tratados com ciclosporina numa dose média de 3,2 ± 0,3 mg/kg. Em 10 doentes (44%) observou-se boa resposta logo no primeiro mês com redução significativa do UAS7 (UAS7 ≤ 6) relativamente aos não respondedores (p < 0,05). Ocorreram eventos adversos em oito doentes, com necessidade de suspensão em seis (hipertensão arterial não controlada ou infeções). Nenhum dos dados avaliados mostrou relação com a resposta terapêutica.Conclusão: A ciclosporina, eficaz em 44% dos doentes com urticária moderada a grave, poderá ser considerada alternativa ao omalizumab, quando este não está disponível, mas com monitorização estreita de eventos adversos

Impacto de um programa de reabilitação na gestão urinária do doente acometido por acidente vascular cerebral

Objective: to assess the effect of a Nursing Rehabilitation program on the urinary incontinence management of women after a CVA. Method: quantitative, quasi-experimental, and longitudinal study conducted in a convalescence unit in the Viana do Castelo district, Portugal, between September 2018 and March 2019. The sample included women (n=30) aged between 45 and 90, experiencing urinary incontinence after a CVA, assigned to two groups: experimental group (n=15) and control group (n=15). The functional rehabilitation program was applied to the experimental group for 4 weeks. The program comprises behavioral changes and an exercise plan to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, and the impact of urinary incontinence was assessed before and after the intervention. Results: a statistically significant correlation was found between the level of functional disability and the impact of urinary incontinence (r=-0.499; p=0.005). Hence, the level of functional disability influences the impact of urinary incontinence on quality of life. The functional rehabilitation program implemented in the experimental group obtained positive results and decreased the frequency (t=6.985, p=0.000) and amount (Z=-2.762, p=0.006) of urine loss. Conclusion: the functional rehabilitation program positively impacted and decreased the frequency and amount of urine loss.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Pulses protein quality control at different storage conditions for further protein extraction – a review: Poster

The storage conditions are of extreme importance with regards to grains (cereal & pulses) components (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins) preservation and quality for industry (that may interfere to whole process and quality of the final product). In addition, the vegetarian consumers’ interest of protein supplement (capsules) from pulses such as beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.), lentils (Lens culinaris L.), peas (Pisum sativum L.), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.), also soybeans (Glycine max L.) has grown considerably, mainly due to their non-lactose&non-animal-based ingredients and also non-transgenic in some of the pulses. Therefore, there is a need of information regarding pulses storage conditions on their components’ quality/quantity and so for safety of the raw material utilized for protein extract purposes. In addition, to get safe pulses raw materials for protein extraction aimed for vegetarian supplements, one needs to take into account (a) quite controlled storage conditions, apart from (b) pesticide residues and mycotoxins contamination control. Therefore, the present reviewgathers and compiles the characterization of six different pulses by evaluating amino acids profile as indicators of protein quality, and compares them with different varieties for further protein extraction.The storage conditions are of extreme importance with regards to grains (cereal & pulses) components (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins) preservation and quality for industry (that may interfere to whole process and quality of the final product). In addition, the vegetarian consumers’ interest of protein supplement (capsules) from pulses such as beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.), lentils (Lens culinaris L.), peas (Pisum sativum L.), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.), also soybeans (Glycine max L.) has grown considerably, mainly due to their non-lactose&non-animal-based ingredients and also non-transgenic in some of the pulses. Therefore, there is a need of information regarding pulses storage conditions on their components’ quality/quantity and so for safety of the raw material utilized for protein extract purposes. In addition, to get safe pulses raw materials for protein extraction aimed for vegetarian supplements, one needs to take into account (a) quite controlled storage conditions, apart from (b) pesticide residues and mycotoxins contamination control. Therefore, the present reviewgathers and compiles the characterization of six different pulses by evaluating amino acids profile as indicators of protein quality, and compares them with different varieties for further protein extraction

Synergistic antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles with an emergent class of azoimidazoles

he combination of two or more agents capable of acting in synergy has been reported as a valuable tool to fight against pathogens. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) present a strong antimicrobial action, although their cytotoxicity for healthy cells at active concentrations is a major concern. Azoimidazole moieties exhibit interesting bioactivities, including antimicrobial activity. In this work, a class of recently described azoimidazoles with strong antifungal activity was conjugated with citrate or polyvinylpyrrolidone-stabilized AgNPs. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance was used to confirm the purity of the compounds before further tests and atomic absorption spectroscopy to verify the concentration of silver in the prepared dispersions. Other analytical techniques elucidate the morphology and stability of AgNPs and corresponding conjugates, namely ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry, scanning transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis. The synergistic antimicrobial activity of the conjugates was assessed through a checkerboard assay against yeasts (Candida albicans and Candida krusei) and bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli). The conjugates showed improved antimicrobial activity against all microorganisms, in particular towards bacteria, with concentrations below their individual minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). Furthermore, some combinations were found to be non-cytotoxic towards human HaCaT cells.This work was funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Oper ational Competitiveness Program and through the National Foundation for Science and Technol ogy of Portugal (FCT) under the projects UID/CTM/00264/2020 of Centre for Textile Science and Technology (2C2T), UIDB/00686/2020 of the Chemistry Centre of University of Minho (CQUM), UIBD/04423/2020 and UIDP/04423/2020 of the CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Ma rine and Environmental Research and FCT Project MEDCOR PTDC/CTM-TEX/1213/2020. Ana Isabel Ribeiro acknowledges FCT for the funding of her Ph.D. scholarship SFRH/BD/137668/2018

Do bioactive carotenoids contribute to the color of edible mushrooms?

Carotenoids are biologically active phytochemicals present as micro-components in fruits and vegetables, being responsible for their yellow, orange and red colors. The chromatographic behavior and the UV absorption spectrum provided by HPLC-DAD analysis constitute the clues for their identification. Mushrooms are of increasing importance in modern nutrition and medicine, due to the presence of metabolites with pharmacological potential. In this work, samples of wild and commercial mushroom species (Agaricus bisporus, Amanita caesarea, Amanita rubescens, Boletus edulis, Cantharellus cibarius, Fistulina hepatica, Hydnum rufescens, Hygrophorus agathosmus, Pholiota nameko, Pleurotus ostreatus, Russula cyanoxantha, Suillus bellini, Suillus bovinus, Suillus granulatus, Suillus luteus, Tricholoma equestre and Tricholoma portentosum) were screened by HPLC-DAD for the presence of carotenoids. By applying this methodology to 22 samples, comprising either lyophilized or fresh materials, only β-carotene was found and just in C. cibarius species. The occurrence of this pigment in other three of the analyzed species previously described raises some questions about the methodology used.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Enseñanza de Historia: una propuesta de clase en la perspectiva de la inclusión

O presente artigo consiste numa reflexão sobre o ensino de História na perspectiva da inclusão. Neste sentido, a principal finalidade deste trabalho é apresentar uma sugestão de um plano de aula fundamentado no ensino de História inclusivo, no qual todos, deficientes ou não, sejam contemplados. Para a consecução do referido objetivo, elaborou-se uma revisão bibliográfica fundamentada em Circe Bittencourt, Paulo Santos, Maria Ciavatta e outros autores. Concluiu-se que o professor de História, para fundamentar sua prática de ensino num enfoque inclusivo, deve valorizar o protagonismo dos estudantes, abordar a diversidade humana como elemento fundamental do processo historico, buscar o diálogo interdisciplinar, procurar ter um conhecimento geral básico sobre as deficiências e outros aspectos.The present article consists of a reflection on the teaching of history in the perspective of inclusion. In this sense, the main purpose of this work is to present a suggestion of a lesson plan based on the teaching of inclusive history, in which all, disabled or not, are contemplated. In order to achieve this goal, a bibliographic review was elaborated based on Circe Bittencourt, Paulo Santos, Maria Ciavatta and other authors. It was concluded that the History teacher, in order to base his teaching practice on an inclusive approach, should value the students' protagonism, address human diversity as a fundamental element of the historical process, seek interdisciplinary dialogue, seek basic knowledge about disabilities and other aspects.El presente artículo consiste en una reflexión sobre la enseñanza de la historia desde la perspectiva de la inclusión. En este sentido, la principal finalidad de este trabajo es presentar una sugerencia de un plan de clase fundamentado en la enseñanza de Historia inclusiva, en el cual todos, discapacitados o no, sean contemplados. Para la consecución de dicho objetivo, se elaboró una revisión bibliográfica fundamentada en Circe Bittencourt, Paulo Santos, Maria Ciavatta y otros autores. Se concluyó que el profesor de Historia, para fundamentar su práctica de enseñanza en un enfoque inclusivo, debe valorar el protagonismo de los estudiantes, abordar la diversidad humana como elemento fundamental del proceso histórico, buscar el diálogo interdisciplinario, procurar tener un conocimiento general básico sobre las deficiencias y otros aspectos

Prevalência e perfil de sensibilidade a antimicrobianos de uropatógenos em pacientes atendidos no laboratório escola do Centro Universitário de Brasília (UniCEUB) - Distrito Federal

O uso indiscriminado de antibióticos no tratamento das Infecções do Trato Urinário (ITU) funciona como pressão seletiva ao surgimento de resistência bacteriana aos antimicrobianos. Deste modo, este estudo teve como objetivo determinar a prevalência de uroculturas positivas e o perfil antimicrobiano dos organismos encontrados em pacientes ambulatoriais atendidos no Laboratório Escola no Centro Universitário de Brasília (UniCEUB) no Distrito Federal. Foi realizado um estudo transversal retrospectivo, no qual teve como base a análise dos registros laboratoriais de uroculturas realizadas no período entre Agosto de 2017 e Dezembro de 2019. Os selecionados como critérios de inclusão: apresentar crescimento microbiano igual ou superior a 100.000 UFC/mL (Unidades Formadoras de Colônia) na urina, possuir resultado de identificação do agente patogênico e o resultado do teste de sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos. Foram excluídos da pesquisa pacientes com os dados cadastrais incompletos. Durante o período analisado, foram realizados 2.436 exames de urocultura, destes 2.281 foram excluídos do estudo: 2.252 por não apresentarem crescimento bacteriano e 29 não apresentaram ficha cadastral completa ou crescimento microbiano inferior ao selecionado para a pesquisa. Por fim, foram selecionadas para este trabalho 155 uroculturas positivas, dentre as quais 92% (142) pertenciam a pacientes do sexofemino e 8% (13) ao sexo masculino, com idade média de 48 e 52 anos respectivamente. Dentre a população analisada, foi observado positividade das uroculturas para os seguintes microrganismos: Escherichia coli (78,71%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (7,74%), Proteus mirabilis (4,52%), Streptococcus agalactiae (3,87%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (1,94%), Staphylococcus haemolyticus e Enterococcus faecalis (1,29%) e Staphylococcus aureus (0,65%). A Escherichia coli foi o microrganismo que apresentou maior prevalência dentre as uroculturas analisadas, de modo que foi avaliado também o perfil de sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos para tal patógeno. Com exceção da ampicilina e da cefalotina, todos os β-lactâmicos testados apresentaram sensibilidade superior a 80%. A resistência da Escherichia coli a ampicilina foi de 50,82%, enquanto a resistência média aos cefalosporínicos foi de aproximadamente 11,5%, 5,74% a gentamicina. Os derivados quinolônicos apresentaram as maiores taxas de resistência: entre 24,59% e 40,98%. Ao utilizar a associação Trimetoprim e Sulfametoxazol, foi observado 29,51% de resistência. Nas amostras analisadas, não houve resistência aos carbapenêmicos. Com base nos dados avaliados, conclui-se que a Escherichiacoli permanece como o principal microrganismo causador de ITU’s em pacientes ambulatoriais. Com base nisto se faz necessário o planejamento de um esquema terapêutico eficaz, visto que o microrganismo apresenta algum grau de resistência a diversos antimicrobianos utilizados na prática clínica