ABSTRACT. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cultivating a combination of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) with black oats (Avena strigosa Schreb.) on the chemical composition of forage and the grazing behavior of heifers. To accomplish this, two paddocks 2500m2 each from a Voisin Rational Grazing management system were divided into three blocks each and then into thirds (278m²) characterizing a randomized block design. Three different forage compositions were distributed into these thirds: oats grown alone, vetch grown alone, and oats grown with vetch. Forage samples were collected after 65 days through the square method. Right after collection, three groups of four heifers each grazed the plots for two hours in a 3x3 double Latin Square design for behavioral observation, grazing simulation through the hand-plucking method, and biting rate determination. Forage samples collected either by hand-plucking or the square method, were analyzed for chemical composition and “in vitro” degradability. Statistical analyses were performed using the R package lme4. Data were evaluated with linear mixed-effects models. The inclusion of common vetch significantly increased forage production and oat protein content, but decreased the fiber content, which promoted better “in vitro” degradability. Grazing frequency was higher in pasture where oats were grown with vetch, but the biting rate was similar in all the three forage compositions evaluated. Forage collected by the square method did not differ from forage consumed by the heifers, probably meaning low herbage selectivity by heifers. Furthermore, no interaction of investigated variables occurred between forage compositions and the method of collection. The inclusion of common vetch with black oats increased forage chemical composition, “in vitro” degradability, and forage production, thus having positive effects on the time cows spent grazing.

Resumo Objetivo Este estudo pretende responder: (i) as comunidades de fitoplâncton podem ser utilizadas como substitutos de comunidades zooplanctônicas? (ii) podemos utilizar abordagens ecológicas como grupos funcionais (FG) ou classificação morfofuncional (MBFG) como substitutos para espécies de fitoplâncton?; (iii) podemos usar grupos substitutos (cladóceros, copépodes, rotíferos ou amebas testáceas) como substitutos para espécies zooplanctônicas?; (iv) a ordenação das variáveis ambientais é concordante com o padrão de ordenação de espécies de fitoplâncton e zooplâncton?; e (v) para ambas as comunidades, o padrão espacial de ordenação é mantido utilizando dados de densidade ou presença/ausência de indivíduos ou resoluções taxonômicas menores? Métodos O estudo foi conduzido em 25 corpos d'água que fornecem irrigação por pivô central no Distrito Federal - Brasil (Bacia do Rio Preto), em outubro de 2012. Nós avaliamos algumas variáveis físicas e químicas, além de amostras de fitoplâncton e zooplâncton. Para avaliar a correlação entre grupos biológicos, resoluções numéricas e maiores resoluções taxonômicas, realizamos algumas análises de Mantel e Procrustes. Resultados Avaliando o uso de grupos substitutos, as comparações entre fitoplâncton e zooplâncton, as classificações de FG e MBFG e quase todas as comparações entre grupos de zooplâncton sugeriram padrões concordantes. No entanto, os valores de r obtidos foram baixos, todos abaixo de 0,70. As análises biológicas com fitoplâncton e zooplâncton podem ser realizadas utilizando dados de presença/ausência de indivíduos sem perda significativa de informação, exceto a classificação MBFG e os copépodes. Os dados também podem ser usados em nível de gênero ou família para copépodes e amebas testáceas e só dados em nível de gênero para cladóceros e rotíferos. Diferentes resultados foram encontrados quanto à resolução taxonômica do fitoplâncton, considerando que, embora significativo, o valor foi menor que 0,70. Conclusão Para fins de monitoramento ambiental, é importante amostrar tanto as comunidades de fitoplâncton como de zooplâncton, porque uma não é substituta da outra, da mesma forma que a densidade do fitoplâncton e suas abordagens funcional e morfofuncional. Por outro lado, para simplificar o monitoramento ambiental, é possível adotar dados de presença/ausência de espécies em vez de dados de abundância para as comunidades de zooplâncton e fitoplâncton, exceto para copépodes e para abordagem morfofuncional. Também é possível adotar nível de gênero para a comunidade zooplanctônica e nível de família para copépodes e amebas testadas.

Abstract Aim This study aimed to answer: (i) can phytoplankton communities be used as surrogate of zooplankton communities?; (ii) can we use ecological approaches like functional groups (FG) or morphofunctional classification (MBFG) as surrogate for phytoplankton species?; (iii) can we use substitute groups (cladocera, copepod, rotifer or testate amoebae) as surrogate for zooplankton species?; (iv) are the environmental variables’ ordination standards concordant with the ordering patterns of phytoplankton and zooplankton species?; and (v) for both communities, is the spatial pattern of ordination maintained using density data or presence/absence of individuals or lower taxonomic resolutions? Methods The study was conducted in 25 water bodies that supply central-pivot irrigation in the Federal District - Brazil (Rio Preto Basin), in October 2012. We evaluated some physical and chemical variables as well as phytoplankton and zooplankton samples. To evaluate correlation among biological groups, numerical and higher taxonomic resolutions, we performed some Mantel and Procrustes analyses. Results Evaluating the use of substitute groups, comparisons between phytoplankton and zooplankton, FG and MBFG classifications and almost all the comparisons between zooplankton groups suggested concordant patterns. However, the values of r were low, all below 0.70. Biological analyses with phytoplankton and zooplankton can be performed using presence/absence of individuals without significant loss of information, except for MBFG classification and copepods. Data may also be used at genus or family level for copepods and testate amoebae and only data at genus level for cladocerans and rotifers. Different results were found concerning taxonomic resolution for phytoplankton considering that, while being significant, the r value was less than 0.70. Conclusions For environmental monitoring purposes, it is important to sample both phytoplankton and zooplankton communities because one is not surrogate of the other one, in the same way as phytoplankton density and their functional and morphofunctional approaches. On the other hand, to simplify the environmental monitoring, it is possible to adopt presence/absence species data instead of abundance data for both zooplankton and phytoplankton communities, except for copepods and morphofunctional approach. It is also possible to adopt genera level for zooplankton community and family level for copepods and testate amoebae.

During the period extending from the 70th to the 80th anniversary of the founding of Pedro Kouri Tropical Medicine Institute, researchers, professionals and technicians from the center, in joint cooperation with a variety of Cuban academic and health care institutions, have integrated into multidisciplinary teams engaged in tasks related to scientific development, technological innovation and capacity building. The paper summarizes the main research studies about tuberculosis conducted from 2008 to 2017 as contributions to the National Tuberculosis Control and Elimination Program, with a view to enhancing the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of actions, swiftly finding a solution to tuberculosis incidence and mortality, and fostering tuberculosis research, surveillance and control. Evidence is presented which substantiates innovations in the clinical therapeutic management of both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients, children and adolescents, and indications are provided for latent tuberculosis infection control, surveillance of anti-tuberculosis treatment outcomes, investigation of case contacts, changes in the record and information system, quality monitoring and evaluation of the detection of tuberculosis cases, and impact on morbidity and mortality.

Desde el 70 al 80 Aniversario de la fundación del Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí", los investigadores, profesionales y técnicos de este centro, han laborado en cooperación con diversas instituciones académicas y de los servicios de salud de Cuba (en equipos multidisciplinarios) en las tareas de desarrollo científico, innovación tecnológica y construcción de capacidades. Este artículo resume las principales investigaciones realizadas sobre la tuberculosis desde 2008-2017; como contribuciones al Programa Nacional de Control y Eliminación de la Tuberculosis con la perspectiva de aumentar la calidad, efectividad y eficiencia de las acciones y acelerar la solución de la incidencia y la mortalidad por tuberculosis, para la investigación, la vigilancia y control de la tuberculosis. Se presentan evidencias que fundamentan las innovaciones en el manejo clínico terapéutico de pacientes inmunocompetentes e inmunocomprometidos, en niños y adolescentes, sobre las indicaciones para el control de la infección tuberculosa latente, la vigilancia de los desenlaces del tratamiento anti-tuberculosis, la investigación de contactos de casos, los cambios en el sistema de registro e información, el monitoreo y evaluación de la calidad de la detección de casos de tuberculosis, el impacto sobre la morbilidad y la mortalidad.

Objetivo: Verificar a validade do Questionário de Frequência Alimentar utilizado para avaliar o consumo de alimentos dos adolescentes em Salvador, Bahia. Métodos : Participaram do estudo 70 adolescentes, com idade entre 11 e 17 anos, matriculados nas escolas da rede pública. Seu consumo alimentar foi avaliado pelo Questionário de Frequência Alimentar e pela média de três registros alimentares como método de referência. Foram estimadas as médias (desvio-padrão) da energia e dos nutrientes extraídos do Questionário de Frequência Alimentar e dos registros alimentares. Para verificar as diferenças foi aplicado o teste t Student pareado. Para medir a concordância entre os dois instrumentos foram calculados os coeficientes de correlação de Pearson e estatística de Kappa. Resultados: A análise dos coeficientes de correlação de Pearson não ajustados brutos, foi possível observar uma variação entre (r=0,61-0,73), já nos deatenuados entre (r=0,33-0,99). Após ajustados por energia os valores brutos variaram entre (r=0,53-0,81) e os deatenuados (r=0,27-0,99), observou-se valores adequados para energia e a maioria dos nutrientes, com exceção da fibra (r=0,27) e do cálcio (r=0,33), que apresentaram fraca correlação. No método de Kappa, todos os valores obtidos na análise apresentaram boa correlação, variando entre (r=0,470,73). Conclusão: Considera-se que a média dos coeficientes para boa correlação deve estar acima de 0,40, esses resultados indicam a capacidade do Questionário de Frequência Alimentar em classificar os indivíduos segundo seu consumo habitual para a maioria dos nutrientes.

Objective: This study assessed the validity of a Food Frequency Questionnaire used to assess food intake in adolescents in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Methods: Seventy adolescents enrolled in public schools aged 11 to 17 years participated in this study. The dietary intake of the adolescents was assessed using the Food Frequency Questionnaire and the mean value of three-day food record, used as the reference method. The mean (and standard deviation) energy and nutrient intakes estimated from the Food Frequency Questionnaire and food records were calculated. The paired Student's t test was used to determine differences between the data. Results: Pearson's correlation coefficient and Kappa statistics were used to measure the strength of the association between the two instruments. There was variation in the crude unadjusted (r=0.61-0.73) and deattenuated (r=0.33-0.99) Pearson correlation coefficients. After adjusting for energy, the crude and deattenuated coefficients ranged from r=0.53-0.81 and r=0.27-0.99, respectively. The intake of energy and most nutrients were found to be adequate, except for fiber (r=0.27) and calcium (r=0.33), which showed a weak correlation. Kappa statistics showed good correlation between all values varying from r=0.47 to 0.73. Conclusion: It is considered that an average r value greater than 0.40 indicates a good correlation, the results obtained indicate the good ability of the Food Frequency Questionnaire to assess individuals according to their usual intake of most nutrients.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar quais parâmetros radiográficos do equilíbrio sagital e espinopélvico influenciam os resultados clínicos e funcionais de uma amostra composta por pacientes submetidos a artrodese da coluna vertebral. Métodos: Foram estudados 32 pacientes submetidos a artrodese da coluna vertebral. Radiografias da coluna total foram obtidas de todos os pacientes. Os parâmetros clínicos e funcionais estudados foram: análise da dor pela escala visual analógica (EVA) e os questionários de Oswestry e SRS-30. Foi analisada a correlação entre os parâmetros clínicos e funcionais e os parâmetros radiográficos do equilíbrio sagital e espinopélvico. Resultados: Não houve correlação significante entre os parâmetros incidência pélvica (IP), versão pélvica (VP), lordose lombar (LL) e diferença entre IP e LL (IP-LL) e os parâmetros clínicos (p > 0,05 e r < 0,2). Houve correlação significante apenas entre o eixo vertical sagital (EVS) e o domínio Satisfação com o Tratamento do SRS-30 (r = 0,402 e p = 0,023) e entre a cifose torácica (CT) e o SRS-30 total (r = 0,419 e p = 0,017). Conclusões: Pelos resultados do estudo, não foi possível caracterizar precisamente o papel dos parâmetros do equilíbrio sagital e espinopélvico na análise do resultado clínico pós-operatório da artrodese da coluna vertebral. Houve correlação significante apenas entre o EVS e o domínio Satisfação com o Tratamento do SRS-30 e entre a CT e o SRS-30 total.

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluates which radiographic parameters of the sagittal and spinopelvic balance influence the clinical and functional outcomes of a sample of patients undergoing spinal fusion. Methods: We studied 32 patients who underwent spinal fusion. Radiographs of the total spine were obtained from all patients. The clinical and functional parameters studied were analysis of pain by visual analogic scale (VAS) and Oswestry and SRS-30 questionnaires. We analyzed the correlation between the clinical and functional parameters and radiographic parameters of the sagittal and spinopelvic balance. Results: There was no significant correlation between parameters pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis (LL) and difference between PI and LL (PI-LL) and clinical parameters (p > 0.05 and r <0.2). Significant correlation were identified only between Sagittal Vertical Axis (SVA) and Satisfaction with Treatment domain of SRS-30 (r = 0.402 e p = 0.023) and between thoracic kyphosis (TK) and the total SRS-30 (r = 0.419 and p = 0.017). Conclusions: According to the study results, it was not possible to precisely characterize the role of the parameters of the sagittal and spinopelvic balance in the post-operative analysis of the clinical outcome of spinal fusion. There was a significant correlation only between SVA and the Satisfaction with Treatment domain of SRS-30 and between TK and total SRS-30.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar qué parámetros radiográficos del equilibrio sagital y espinopélvico influencian los resultados clínicos y funcionales en una muestra de pacientes sometidos a la fusión espinal. Métodos: Se estudiaron 32 pacientes que fueron sometidos a la artrodesis de la columna vertebral. Las radiografías de la columna total se obtuvieron de todos los pacientes. Los parámetros clínicos y funcionales estudiados fueron: análisis del dolor mediante escala visual analógica (EVA) y cuestionarios Oswestry y SRS-30. Se analizó la correlación entre los parámetros clínicos y funcionales y los parámetros radiográficos del balance pélvico sagital y espinopélvico. Resultados: No hubo correlación significativa entre los parámetros incidencia pélvica (IP), la inclinación de la pelvis (IncP), lordosis lumbar (LL) y la diferencia entre la IP y LL (IP-LL) y los parámetros clínicos (p > 0,05 y r < 0,2). Hubo una correlación significativa sólo entre el eje sagital vertical (ESV) y el dominio de Satisfacción con el Tratamiento del SRS-30 (r = 0,402 y p = 0,023) y entre la cifosis torácica (CT) y el SRS-30 total (r = 0,419 y p = 0,017). Conclusiones: De acuerdo con los resultados del estudio, no fue posible caracterizar con precisión el papel de los parámetros del balance sagital y espinopélvico en el análisis post-operatorio de la artrodesis de la columna vertebral. Hubo una correlación significativa sólo entre ESV y el dominio Satisfacción con el Tratamiento de SRS-30 y entre el CT y el SRS-30 total.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo analisar as eficiências produtivas, de acordo com modelos de Análise Envoltória de Dados [(Data Envelopment Analysis) DEA], sob critérios agroecológicos, buscando a maior estabilidade e menor variabilidade sazonal, maior variedade/diversidade de itens produzidos e quantidade de itens disponibilizados para venda. O monitoramento e a avaliação das eficiências de lotes de agricultores pode auxiliar na gestão da agricultura familiar agroecológica. A metodologia DEA foi aplicada para medir a eficiência produtiva de dezessete lotes de agricultores familiares agroecológicos, localizados em uma faixa de dutos da Petrobras no Município de Nova Iguaçu-RJ, na baixada fluminense. Foram levantados dados primários listados em itens, quantidades e valor médio, referentes à produção disponibilizada para venda em feiras semanais distribuídas ao longo dos meses de janeiro a dezembro de 2009. Foi registrada uma relação conjunta de critérios agroecológicos, com foco econômico, social e ambiental. Pôde-se observar que sete lotes tiveram eficiência média composta acima do valor médio de 67,6%, variando de 71,3 a 86,6%.

The aim of this study was to analyze productive efficiencies (evaluated according to DEA models, Data Envelopment Analysis) under agroecological criteria, seeking greater stability and less seasonal variability, greater variety, diversity, quantity of items produced and sold items. DEA methodology was applied to measure the efficiency of 17 agricultural plots of agroecological farmers. These plots are located in a strip of Petrobras ducts area in the municipality of Nova Iguaçu, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. Primary data were collected referring to the production sold in weekly markets, distributed over the months from January to December 2009; organized in items, quantities and average value. A joint agroecological relationship with economic, social and environmental criteria focus was recorded. Seven plots comprised efficiency above the average (67.6%), ranging from 71.3 to 86.6%.

A escassez de dados pluviográficos na região do Pantanal fez com que muitos autores utilizassem equações de regressão obtidas em outras regiões do Brasil para calcular o Fator R da Equação Universal de Perda de Solo (USLE). O presente estudo define equações para a previsão da erosividade em região do bioma Pantanal, correlacionando a erosividade das chuvas calculada pelo índice EI30 e o coeficiente de chuva (Rc). A equação desenvolvida, do tipo potencial, apresenta consistência e correlação significativa com os dados observados, obtendo valor de coeficiente de determinação de 97%. Portanto, a equação de erosividade proposta pode ser utilizada para estimativa do fator R da USLE a partir dos dados mensais e anuais de precipitação da região e de outras regiões com características climáticas semelhantes.

The scarcity of pluviograph data in the Pantanal zone forced many researchers to use regression equations obtained in others regions of Brazil to calculate the R factor of Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE). This study defines a model to predict the erosivity of the Pantanal Biome correlating the calculated rainfall erosivity index EI30 and the rainfall coefficient (Rc). The model showed a significant correlation with the observed data, yielding coefficient of determination of 97%. Therefore, the rainfall erosivity model proposed can be used to estimate the R Factor of USLE data from monthly and annual precipitation for the region and other regions with similar climatic characteristics.

Purpose To report the surgical technique, procedural outcomes, and feasibility of simultaneous bilateral Video Endoscopic Inguinal Lymphadenectomy (VEIL) in the management of patients with indication for inguinal lymphadenectomy. Surgical Technique: VEIL was applied in all patients using the oncological landmarks (the adductor longus muscle medially, the sartorius muscle laterally and the inguinal ligament superiorly). A 1.5 cm incision was made 2 cm distally to the lower vertex of the femoral triangle. A second incision was made 2 cm proximally and 6 cm medially. Two 10 mm Hasson trocars were inserted in these incisions and the working space was insufflated with CO2 at 5-15 mmHg. The final trocar was placed 2 cm proximally and 6 cm laterally from the first port. Results: A total of 5 VEIL procedures in 3 patients were performed. Two patients underwent simultaneous bilateral VEIL while another underwent simultaneous bilateral surgery with VEIL on the right and open lymphadenectomy on the left side due to an enlarged node. All laparoscopic procedures were successfully performed without conversion and maintained the oncological templates. One lymphocele occurred in the patient who underwent the open procedure. None of the patients presented with skin necrosis after the procedure. Mean number of nodes retrieved was 6 from each side and 2 patients presented with positive inguinal nodes. After one year of follow-up no recurrences were observed. Conclusion: Simultaneous lymphadenectomy procedures are feasible. Improvement in operative and anesthesia time could decrease the morbidity associated with inguinal lymphadenectomy while maintaining the oncological principles.

O índice de Burnout foi avaliado em 119 professores da rede pública do ensino fundamental. Os instrumentos de medida consistiram do CBP-R Questionário de Burnout para Professores - R (Moreno; Garrosa; González, 2000) e de um inventário sociodemográfico. Os resultados indicaram que 70,13% dos participantes apresentavam sintomas de Burnout, sendo que 85% se sentiam ameaçados em sala de aula. Desses, 44% cumpriam jornada de trabalho superior a 60 horas semanais e 70% situavam-se em uma faixa etária inferior a 51 anos. Encontraram-se diferenças significativas para os fatores sentimento de ameaça em sala de aula, jornada de trabalho e idade, quando relacionados ao Burnout. Foram sugeridas alternativas para a humanização do posto de trabalho docente.

The Burnout index of 119 Elementary Public Education teachers was assessed. The CBP-R, Teacher Burnout Questionnaire - (Brown, Garrosa and González, 2000) and a socio-demographic questionnaire were used as data collection instruments. The results showed that 70.13 per cent of the participants presented symptoms of Burnout, 85 per cent felt threatened in the classroom, 44 per cent spent more than 60 working hours a week and 70 per cent of them were less than 51 years old. Significant differences were found in the following factors: feeling threatened in the classroom, journey to work and age, when related to Burnout Syndrome. Based on the research results, the authors suggested alternatives aimed at humanizing the teacher workplace.

Despite massive losses of primary forest, the Amazonian rainforest remains an extremely rich source of biodiversity. In recent years, entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have been isolated from soil in various parts of the world and used successfully as biological control agents against numerous insect pests. Therefore, a sampling in the rainforest of Monte Negro, Rondônia, Brazil was conducted with the aim of discovering new strains and/or species of EPNs for future development as biological control agents. From 156 soil samples taken at nine collecting sites, 19 isolates were obtained, all of them belonging to the genus Heterorhabditis. Four strains were subjected to detailed morphological and molecular evaluation. Based on morphometrics and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence data, the strains LPP1, LPP2 and LPP4 were identified as Heterorhabditis indica, whereas LPP7 was considered Heterorhabditis baujardi. Comparative analysis of the ITS1 sequence of H. indica and H. baujardi isolates showed a polymorphic site for the restriction enzyme Tth 111 that could be used to distinguish the two species. Consequently, strains LPP1, LPP2, LPP3, LPP4, and LPP9 were identified as H. indica, whereas LPP5, LPP7, LPP8 and LPP10 were identified as H. baujardi.

Verificou-se o efeito de três espaçamentos entre plantas e três sistemas de poda sobre a produção de frutos de tomateiro do tipo italiano (saladete), visando ao consumo in natura. O delineamento experimental foi blocos ao acaso, com três repetições. Os tratamentos foram dispostos em parcelas subdivididas, com os híbridos Heinz 9780 e Kátia alocados às parcelas e, um fatorial de três espaçamentos entre plantas (20; 35 e 50 cm) e três números de cachos por planta (2; 4 e 8), às subparcelas. As plantas foram conduzidas sem tutoramento. Houve incremento da produção total e comercial com a redução do espaçamento entre plantas e com o aumento do número de cachos por planta, com interação significativa entre essas duas variáveis, que apresentaram produção total e comercial de 202,6 t ha-1 e 165,9 t ha-1 respectivamente no espaçamento entre plantas de 20 cm e em plantas conduzidas com oito cachos. Apenas o híbrido Kátia apresentou redução significativa do número de frutos por planta quando o espaçamento entre plantas foi reduzido de 50 cm para 35 cm. Houve efeito depressivo da redução do espaçamento entre plantas no peso médio de frutos, a partir de 35 cm para o híbrido Heinz 9780 e, 20 cm, para o híbrido Kátia. Já a poda das plantas após o segundo cacho elevou o peso médio dos frutos em 54% no híbrido Heinz 9780 e 48,6% no híbrido Kátia, quando comparado ao tratamento com oito cachos por planta. Os resultados indicam a possibilidade de aumentar o peso médio de frutos de tomateiro com o emprego do espaçamento entre plantas de 50 cm para o híbrido Heinz 9780 e, 35 ou 50 cm, para o híbrido Kátia, e da poda apical após dois ou quatro cachos. Os híbridos mostraram-se adequados para a produção de tomate destinado ao consumo in natura, por apresentarem frutos com tamanho exigido por esse mercado.

This experiment was carried out to study the effect of three spacings between plants and three pruning systems in the production of tomatoes, Italian class (saladete), for in natura use. Statistical procedure was based on randomized blocks with three replications, in a factorial scheme. Hybrid cultivars Heinz 9780 and Katia were planted in whole plots and the combination of three spacings between plants (20; 35 and 50 cm) and three pruning systems resulting in 2; 4, and 8 fruit clusters per plant, were assigned to the subplots. Plants grew without guiding. Total and commercial yield increased with plant density and with the number of fruit clusters, with significant interaction between these two variables. Total and marketable fruit yield reached their peak (202,6 and 165,9 t ha-1, respectively) with 20-cm spacing between plants and eight clusters. Hybrid Katia suffered a significant reduction in the number of fruits plant-1 when spacing between plants was reduced from 50 to 35 cm. The average weight of fruits was reduced when spacing between plants was bellow 35 cm for hybrid Heinz 9780 and bellow 20 cm for hybrid Katia, and increased as a result of pruning of plants after second cluster in 54,0% for hybrid Keinz 9780 and 48,6% for hybrid Katia. The average fruit weight can be increased with spacing between plants of 50 cm for hybrid Heinz 9780, and 35 or 50 cm for hybrid Katia and pruning after two or four fruit clusters. The hybrids performed adequately considering production of tomato for in natura consumption, with big enough fruits for market requirements.

In a previous study, the Schistosoma mansoni Rho1 protein was able to complement Rho1 null mutant Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells at restrictive temperatures and under osmotic stress (low calcium concentration) better than the human homologue (RhoA). It is known that under osmotic stress, the S. cerevisiae Rho1 triggers two distinct pathways: activation of the membrane 1,3-beta-glucan synthase enzymatic complex and activation of the protein kinase C1 signal transduction pathway, promoting the transcription of response genes. In the present work the SmRho1 protein and its mutants smrho1E97P, smrho1L101T, and smrho1E97P, L101T were used to try to clarify the basis for the differential complementation of Rho1 knockout yeast strain by the human and S. mansoni genes. Experiments of functional complementation in the presence of caffeine and in the presence of the osmotic regulator sorbitol were conducted. SmRho1 and its mutants showed a differential complementation of the yeast cells in the presence of caffeine, since smrho1E97P and smrho1E97P, L101T mutants showed a delay in the growth when compared to the yeast complemented with the wild type SmRho1. However, in the presence of sorbitol and caffeine the wild type SmRho1 and mutants showed a similar complementation phenotype, as they allowed yeast growth in all caffeine concentrations tested.

As atividades de pesquisa e desenvolvimento (P&D) realizadas nos institutos públicos de pesquisa (IPPs) têm como característica uma gestão arraigada nas premissas acadêmicas, que priorizam a geração e difusão do conhecimento. Em contrapartida, a necessidade de competitividade tecnológica no mercado e a pressão pela participação, como instrumentos da política pública do esforço nacional rumo à inovação, têm pressionado os IPPs para a busca por resultados mais concretos. Esse fato acarreta a geração de grandes lacunas nos processos relacionados à gestão, induzindo a uma constante necessidade de aperfeiçoamento gerencial, no sentido de criar e melhorar ferramentas que contribuam para adequá-la à nova realidade. Este artigo propõe uma metodologia de gestão de projetos de P&D, que se baseia no direcionamento dos projetos de pesquisa para a obtenção de produtos, e considera suas características multidisciplinares e interdisciplinares e a incerteza inerentes a esse processo. Essa metodologia foi desenvolvida no Instituto de Tecnologia de Fármacos da Fiocruz e é proposta como um modelo original para instituições semelhantes.

The Research and Development (R&D) activities carried out at public research institutes have a strongly rooted academic-like management which focuses on knowledge improvement. On the other hand, the need for technological competitiveness and contribution in the national effort towards innovation has lead Brazilian organizations to search for more concrete results: products. This fact accounts for huge gaps in management-related processes and a constant need for managerial improvements in order to generate and perfect tools suitable to a new reality. This article proposes a R&D project management methodology focused on research projects that aim at new technological products taking into consideration the multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary aspects and the uncertainty inherent to this process. It presents the case of the Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, a unit of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, and proposes an original model for similar institutes.

Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, has a variable clinical course, ranging from symptomless infection to severe chronic disease with cardiovascular or gastrointestinal involvement or, occasionally, overwhelming acute episodes. The factors influencing this clinical variability have not been elucidated, but it is likely that the genetic variability of both the host and the parasite are of importance. In this work we review the the genetic structure of T. cruzi populations and analyze the importance of genetic variation of the parasite in the pathogenesis of the disease under the light of the histotropic-clonal model.